bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the calibration estimators of finite population proportion under remainder systematic sampling
Authors: Audu Ahmed , Aphane Maggie , Ahmad Jabir , Singh R. V. K.
Published: February 2025

Estimators of population parameters which utilized only information of the study variable tend to be sensitive to outliers or extreme values that may characterize sampling information due to randomness in selection thereby making them to be less efficient and robust. One of the approaches often adopted in sampling survey to address aforementioned issue is to utilize auxiliary variable information. Therefore, this study introduced a new calibration method for estimating a population proportion using remainder systematic sampling with the help of an auxiliary attribute. A new calibration scheme was developed and the theoretical expressions for the optimized resultant estimators for estimator proportion of population attribute were derived. The motivation for using calibration methods is due to their ability to reduce bias, enhance precision, utilize auxiliary information, provide flexibility, comply with standards, and improve decision-making. These benefits collectively contribute to more reliable and valid estimates, making them an essential aspect of modern sampling techniques. The theoretical findings were supported by simulation studies on nine populations generated using the binomial distribution with various success probabilities. The simulation results showed that the proposed estimators under the proposed calibration schemes performed more efficiently on average compared to the traditional unbiased estimator of the population proportion under remainder systematic sampling. The numerical results of the demonstrated the superiority of the proposed calibrated estimators over the existing conventional estimators in terms of biasness, efficiency, robustness, stability as well as efficiency gain.
Whistleblowing: incentives and situational determinants
Authors: Schmolke Klaus Ulrich , Utikal Verena
Published: February 2025

Law makers increasingly try to capitalize on individuals having acquired knowledge of corporate crimes or other misconduct by inducing them to blow the whistle. In a laboratory experiment we measure the effectiveness of incentives on the willingness to report such misconduct to a sanctioning authority. We find that fines for non-reporting insiders, rewards, and even simple commands, increase the probability of whistleblowing. We find the strongest effect for fines. Situational determinants also influence the willingness to blow the whistle: Insiders who are negatively affected by the misconduct are more likely to blow the whistle than non-affected or profiting insiders. Those (negatively affected) victims are also sensitive to the misconduct’s impact on the authority sanctioning the misconduct (public authority or employer): Whistleblowing is more likely if the enforcement authority is negatively affected compared to positively or not affected.
Mixed-integer linearity in nonlinear optimization: a trust region approach
Authors: De Marchi Alberto
Published: February 2025

Bringing together nonlinear optimization with polyhedral and integrality constraints enables versatile modeling, but poses significant computational challenges. We investigate a method to address these problems based on sequential mixed-integer linearization with trust region safeguard, computing feasible iterates via calls to a generic mixed-integer linear solver. Convergence to critical, possibly suboptimal, feasible points is established for arbitrary starting points. Finally, we present numerical applications in nonsmooth optimal control and optimal network design and operation.
Folk-Ontological Stances Towards Robots and Psychological Human Likeness
Authors: Datteri Edoardo
Published: February 2025

It has often been argued that people can attribute mental states to robots without making any ontological commitments to the reality of those states. But what does it mean to ‘attribute’ a mental state to a robot, and ‘to make an ontological commitment’ to it? It will be argued that, on a plausible interpretation of these two notions, it is not clear how mental state attribution can occur without making any ontological commitment. Taking inspiration from the philosophical debate on scientific realism, a provisional taxonomy of folk-ontological stances towards robots will also be identified, corresponding to different ways of understanding robots’ minds. They include realism, non-realism, eliminativism, reductionism, fictionalism and agnosticism. Instrumentalism will also be discussed and presented as a folk-epistemological stance. In the last part of the article it will be argued that people’s folk-ontological stances towards robots and humans can influence their perception of the human-likeness of robots. The analysis carried out here can be read as promoting a study of people’s inner beliefs about the reality of robots’ mental states during ordinary human-robot interaction.
Modulation of the Sporulation Dynamics in the Plant-Probiotic Bacillus velezensis 83 via Carbon and Quorum-Sensing Metabolites
Authors: Soriano-Peña Esmeralda Yazmín , Luna-Bulbarela Agustín , Cristiano-Fajardo Sergio Andrés , Galindo Enrique , Serrano-Carreón Leobardo
Published: February 2025

Spore-forming Bacilli, such as the plant-associated Bacillus velezensis strains, are widely used as probiotics, known for their safety and substantial health benefits for both animal and plant species. Through differentiation pathways mediated by quorum-sensing metabolites (QSMs), these bacteria develop multiple isogenic subpopulations with distinct phenotypes and ecological functions, including motile cells, matrix-producing/cannibalistic cells, competent cells, spores, and others. However, the heterogeneity in Bacillus populations is a significant limitation for the development of spore-based probiotics, as nutrients supplied during fermentation are consumed through non-target pathways. One of these pathways is the generation of overflow metabolites (OMs), including acetoin and 2,3-butanediol. This study elucidates, using a 23 full factorial experimental design, the individual effects of OMs, QSMs, and their interactions on the sporulation dynamics and subpopulation distribution of B. velezensis 83. The results showed that OMs play a relevant role as external reserves of carbon and energy during in vitro nutrient limitation scenarios, significantly affecting sporulation dynamics. OMs improve sporulation efficiency and reduce cell autolysis, but they also decrease cellular synchronization and extend the period of spore formation. Although QSMs significantly increase sporulation synchronization, the desynchronization caused by OMs cannot be mitigated even with the addition of autoinducer QSM pro-sporulation molecules, including competence and sporulation stimulating factor “CSF” and cyclic lipopeptides. Indeed, the interaction effect between OMs and QSMs displays antagonism on sporulation efficiency. Modulating the levels of OMs and QSMs is a potential strategy for regulating the distribution of subpopulations within Bacillus cultures.
Mathematical Thinking in Preschool: Strengthening Seriation and Counting Through Problem Solving
Authors: Torres-Peña Roberto Carlos , Peña-González Darwin , Ariza-Echeverri Edwan Anderson
Published: February 2025

This study addresses the critical issue of mathematical underperformance among preschoolers in Yopal Casanare, Colombia, through the perspective of an action research project. It focuses on the design and implementation of a didactic unit aimed at promoting numerical thinking, specifically seriation and structured counting, in preschool students. The methodology centers on qualitative action research, combining problem-solving approaches to comprehensively examine and transform educational practices. The intervention was designed to address identified weaknesses in mathematical competencies. To assess the initial state of mathematical competence, the Utrecht Early Mathematical Education Test was administered to 25 transition-grade children, revealing significant deficiencies in seriation and structured counting. The didactic unit included three activities focused on pattern identification, structured counting, and comparison of collections. Post-intervention assessments demonstrated notable improvements in these areas, though the emphasis remains on qualitative insights rather than statistical significance. This study contributes valuable insights into early childhood mathematics education, highlighting the potential of problem-solving-based interventions to enhance foundational mathematical competencies and emphasizing the importance of early diagnostic assessment and targeted educational strategies.
Using Best–Worst Scaling Survey to Investigate the Relative Importance of Attributes Associated with Public Hospital Outpatient Appointments
Authors: Pain Tilley , Brown Amy , Kingston Gail , Perks Stephen , Patterson Corey , Firth Nerida , Lester Jessica , Sherwood Luke , Brennan Sonja , Street Deborah
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Obtaining patient input before healthcare redesign improves patient experience. The Townsville Hospital and Health Service, a regional Australian public health service, seeks to reduce the long wait list for medical specialist appointments by introducing allied health substitution models of care for low-acuity patients. This paper describes a best worst scaling survey conducted to refine attributes associated with outpatient appointments which will be used in a future discrete choice experiment (DCE).

Methods

A literature review was conducted to identify attributes associated with medical specialist outpatient appointments and allied health substitution models. An object (or case 1) best worst scaling (BWS) survey was designed using blocks of a balanced incomplete block design and analysed using multinomial logit and mixed logit models. Patients waiting at local specialist outpatient clinics were invited to complete the survey via an iPad. The interviewer collected field notes, which were analysed using content analysis.

Results

A total of 12 attributes were identified in the literature review and one from local discussion. The 167 completed responses demonstrated the ranking of attributes were diagnostic accuracy, symptom relief, continuity of care, satisfaction with care, healthcare professional, manner and communication, time on waitlist and onward referral. The least important attributes were reassurance offered, appointment wait time, cost and appointment duration.

Conclusions

This BWS survey allows us to reduce the attributes for inclusion in the DCE from 13 to 8. Diagnostic accuracy and symptom relief were of most importance, and appointment wait time and duration were of least importance. This suggests that patients would be willing to be attend different models of care such as allied health primary contact model if clinical outcomes were equivalent to the current medical-led models.
Localization of Acoustic Emission Source in Rock Using SMIGWO Algorithm
Authors: Wei Jiong , Gao Fuqiang , Lou Jinfu , Yang Lei , Wang Xiaoqing
Published: February 2025

The Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) algorithm is acknowledged as an effective method for rock acoustic emission localization. However, the conventional GWO algorithm encounters challenges related to solution accuracy and convergence speed. To address these concerns, this paper develops a Simplex Improved Grey Wolf Optimizer (SMIGWO) algorithm. The randomly generating initial populations are replaced with the iterative chaotic sequences. The search process is optimized using the convergence factor optimization algorithm based on the inverse incomplete Г function. The simplex method is utilized to address issues related to poorly positioned grey wolves. Experimental results demonstrate that, compared to the conventional GWO algorithm-based AE localization algorithm, the proposed algorithm achieves a higher solution accuracy and showcases a shorter search time. Additionally, the algorithm demonstrates fewer convergence steps, indicating superior convergence efficiency. These findings highlight that the proposed SMIGWO algorithm offers enhanced solution accuracy, stability, and optimization performance. The benefits of the SMIGWO algorithm extend universally across various materials, such as aluminum, granite, and sandstone, showcasing consistent effectiveness irrespective of material type. Consequently, this algorithm emerges as a highly effective tool for identifying acoustic emission signals and improving the precision of rock acoustic emission localization.
A general version of the Saphar theorem for linear summing operators
Authors: Popa Dumitru
Published: February 2025

Let

$$1\leqslant p<\infty $$

1
⩽
p
<
∞

, E, W be Banach spaces,

$$\Omega $$

Ω

a non-empty set,

$$F\subseteqq l_{\infty }( \Omega ,W) $$

F
⫅

l
∞

(
Ω
,
W
)

a linear subspace,

$$S:E\rightarrow F$$

S
:
E
→
F

a positive homogeneous operator and Z a Banach space. In this paper we introduce the concept of (p, S) -summing operator from E into Z and on

$$E\hspace{1.111pt}{\otimes }\hspace{1.111pt}Z$$

E

⊗

Z

we define

$$d_{p^{*}}^{S}$$

d

p

∗

S

, the general droite Saphar seminorm associated to the operator S. We prove that the spaces

$$\Pi _{p}^{S}( E,Z^{*}) $$

Π

p

S

(
E
,

Z

∗

)

and

$$( E\hspace{1.111pt}{\otimes }\hspace{1.111pt}Z,d_{p^{*}}^{S}) ^{*}$$

(
E

⊗

Z
,

d

p

∗

S

)

∗

are isometrically isomorphic. Various applications and illustrative examples are given.
Forschendes Lernen in der politikwissenschaftlichen Methodenausbildung
Authors: Nauroschat Lea , Kramer Finn , Pollok Michael
Published: February 2025

Forschung und Lehre gehören zu den grundlegenden Kernbereichen des Hochschulbetriebs. Dabei stellt der Lehrbetrieb für viele Forschende eine nicht selten wenig wertgeschätzte Zusatzbelastung im universitären Forschungsalltag dar. Von Studierendenseite werden mitunter die fehlenden Verbindungen von Lehrinhalten und angewandter Forschungspraxis kritisiert. Der Ansatz des Forschenden Lernens versucht, Forschung und Lehre enger miteinander zu verknüpfen und plädiert für einen Lehrbetrieb, der Studierende an allen wesentlichen Phasen eines Forschungsprozesses als ko-kreative Peers beteiligt. Zwar findet der Ansatz bereits Beachtung im laufenden Forschungs- und Lehrbetrieb, zur allgemeinen Norm ist er allerdings noch nicht geworden. Dabei bietet das Forschende Lernen oft gerade für die bisweilen als defizitär eingeschätzte (politikwissenschaftliche) Methodenausbildung viele Vorteile. Der Beitrag legt Erfahrungen aus einem Methodenseminar am Institut für Politikwissenschaft (IfPol) Münster (Deutschland) dar, in dem die Grounded Theory Methodology als Forschungsstil im Rahmen eines laufenden Promotionsprojekts zur nachhaltigen Mobilität vermittelt und angewendet wurde.
Marital status transition probabilities in Indonesia: based on the 2007 and 2014 Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS)
Authors: Ananta Aris , Arifin Evi Nurvidya , Sun Yi , Feng Qiushi
Published: February 2025

This paper contributes to the first calculation of marital status transition probabilities in Indonesia using the Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS), a longitudinal survey conducted since 1993. The sample consists of individuals aged 15 and over in Wave-4 (2007) who were re-interviewed in Wave-5 (2014). The study calculates transition probabilities for five marital status changes: from never married to married, married to widowed, married to divorced, widowed to remarried, and divorced to remarried. The analysis is conducted based on age, education, geography (urban-rural residence and islands), and key social markers (ethnicity and religion), with sex as a control variable across all dimensions. Among others, it concludes that the transition probability from never married to married is consistently higher among females than males, regardless of education, geography, and social markers, with an exception among the group—aged 35 years old and over. Once married, most individuals remain married, though some experience a shift in marital status, transitioning to either widowed or divorced. The transition probability from married to widowed increases with age, making it significantly more common than divorce among individuals aged 50 years and over. This pattern—that transition probability is higher to widowed than to divorced- is consistent across both sexes, all education levels, geography, and social markers. After becoming widowed or divorced, some individuals remarry. However, the likelihood of remarrying differs importantly depending on the previous marital status, with the transition probability from divorced to remarried consistently higher than from widowed to remarried, irrespective of sex, age, education, geography, and social markers.
A critical approach to security in the Middle East: towards sustainable security
Authors: Yazdani Enayatollah , Zeng Ji , Bagheri Mohsen
Published: February 2025

The failure of traditional approaches to provide security has resulted in introducing a new approach to security in the post-Cold War era known as "sustainable security." This issue is particularly important in the Middle East, where the security situation has deteriorated in recent decades due to traditional security approaches. The main question of this paper is, "What can be done to ensure long-term security in the Middle East?" This paper is based on the hypothesis that sustainable security can be achieved by addressing national security, regional security, global security, and human security at the same time. The paper addresses the problem of security in the Middle East using a descriptive-analytical methodology and utilizing a theoretical framework of critical approach to security. To do this, first, the relevant theoretical literature is discussed; second, the Middle East security issue is addressed. The factors most likely to contribute to long-term security at the human, national, regional, and global levels are discussed.
How To Do Academic Blogging
Authors: Stevenson Ana , Balloo Kieran , Piper Alana
Published: February 2025

Academic blogging is a digital platform for “doing” knowledge translation in the humanities. Knowledge translation is the process of communicating research outcomes outside academia so the public can benefit. While science communication is widely recognized as a medium for communicating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics knowledge with the public, formal mechanisms for knowledge facilitation in the humanities are not as well established. Academic blogging is core to the social value and impact of the humanities, representing an important open access entry point into humanistic scholarly debates. Drawing on a developing literature about academic blogging as well as a survey we conducted with readers, authors, and editors of academic blogs, this article shows how doing knowledge translation with academic blogs can support the three core domains of a university’s mission: research, teaching, and public outreach. With your research, you can use academic blogs to facilitate networking and collaborations; with your teaching, you can use academic blogs as tools to introduce students to a new topic; with public outreach, doing academic blogging enables you to connect with diverse readerships. Academic blogs contribute to knowledge translation for and about the humanities, from foundational concepts to new research and the more hidden aspects of academic practice.
Resting-state network alterations in depression: a comprehensive meta-analysis of functional connectivity
Authors: Zhang Zhihui , Zhang Yijing , Wang He , Lei Minghuan , Jiang Yifan , Xiong Di , Chen Yayuan , Zhang Yujie , Zhao Guoshu , Wang Yao , Zhang Wanwan , Xu Jinglei , Zhai Ying , An Qi , Li Shen , Hao Xiaoke , Liu Feng
Published: February 2025

Background

Depression has been linked to disruptions in resting-state networks (RSNs). However, inconsistent findings on RSN disruptions, with variations in reported connectivity within and between RSNs, complicate the understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying depression.

Methods

A systematic literature search of PubMed and Web of Science identified studies that employed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to explore RSN changes in depression. Studies using seed-based functional connectivity analysis or independent component analysis were included, and coordinate-based meta-analyses were performed to evaluate alterations in RSN connectivity both within and between networks.

Results

A total of 58 studies were included, comprising 2321 patients with depression and 2197 healthy controls. The meta-analysis revealed significant alterations in RSN connectivity, both within and between networks, in patients with depression compared with healthy controls. Specifically, within-network changes included both increased and decreased connectivity in the default mode network (DMN) and increased connectivity in the frontoparietal network (FPN). Between-network findings showed increased DMN–FPN and limbic network (LN)–DMN connectivity, decreased DMN–somatomotor network and LN–FPN connectivity, and varied ventral attention network (VAN)–dorsal attentional network (DAN) connectivity. Additionally, a positive correlation was found between illness duration and increased connectivity between the VAN and DAN.

Conclusions

These findings not only provide a comprehensive characterization of RSN disruptions in depression but also enhance our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying depression.
Comparative Regionalism beyond Europe versus the rest
Authors: Lenz Tobias , Söderbaum Fredrik
Published: February 2025

What is the current state of Comparative Regionalism (CR) as a field of research? Since its inception, CR has suffered from a chasm between those who take European integration as the model for conceptualising, theorising, comparing, and designing regionalism worldwide, and the critics, who reject EU-centrism in favour of more contextualised approaches focusing on the Global South. This paper challenges this characterisation by showing how CR has fundamentally changed in the last decade or so. We detail three ‘silent’ transformations: (i) conceptually, scholars disaggregate regionalism into specific components, rendering systematic comparison more tractable and less individual case-centric; (ii) theoretically, scholars develop frameworks that build on general social science theories and actively seek to move beyond EU-centrism; and (iii) methodologically, scholars use more rigorous comparative designs and a broader range of data. These changes, we suggest, indicate a ‘mainstreaming’ of CR, with attendant benefits and costs.
Nutritional value of organic food in children
Authors: De Luca Arnaud , Bocquet Alain , Brancato-Bouet Sandra , Chalumeau Martin , Dupont Christophe , Darmaun Dominique , Feillet François , Frelut Marie-Laure , Guimber Dominique , Lapillonne Alexandre , Linglart Agnès , Nicklaus Sophie , Peretti Noël , Rozé Jean-Christophe , Simeoni Umberto , Chouraqui Jean-Pierre ,   Committee on Nutrition of the French Society of Paediatrics
Published: February 2025

In Europe, organic food must comply with specific regulations which do not include nutritional criteria. The ability of organic food to meet the nutritional needs of children is not assessed. This narrative review discusses the nutritional composition (macronutrients, micronutrients) of organic food compared to conventional products and its clinical relevance with a pediatric focus, and the health impact of these differences and of contaminants which interfere with metabolism. Other potential differences, particularly regarding the direct/indirect exposure to other contaminants in conventional food, are not addressed in this review. The composition of some organic food may differ from conventional food. Protein content was lower in cereals and eggs. A lower n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fats (PUFA) ratio was observed in milk, meat and eggs. Long-chain PUFA and vitamin E may be higher in milk, meat, and fish, as some minerals and antioxidants (phenolic compounds, vitamin C) in fruits, vegetables, and starchy food and carotenoids in fruits and vegetables. Epidemiological studies suggest an association between organic diets and lower prevalence of childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, whereas the protective effect on allergy and cancer is controversial. Some organic food may have a better nutritional interest for children’s diet than conventional food. Standardized studies comparing food composition and diet in children are needed. Considering the lower toxicologic risk and the sustainability of organic food, the Committee on Nutrition encourages the use of organic food, provided such food is affordable, alongside specific baby food which are subject to strict specific EU regulations.
Armed Groups in the Middle East and Conflict Research
Authors: Lefèvre Raphaël
Published: February 2025

For much of the past fifteen years, the Middle East and North Africa have been witnessing the largest proportion of conflicts in the world. Long and bloody wars in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and Libya drove the trend through the 2010s, followed by a respite in 2022 and then by another particularly brutal wave of conflict over Israel/Gaza and in Lebanon in 2023/2024. Given the prevalence of violence in the Middle East, one would expect that a sizeable part of the conflict studies scholarship draws on research from and about the region—especially as it is a hub for phenomena of broader interest to academics of civil wars such as foreign fighters, proxy wars, rebel governance, and non-state armed groups. Yet evidence suggests that publications drawing on empirical research from the region constitute less than 5% of all articles on conflicts in political science journals (Melani Cammett and Isabel Kendall, “Political Science Scholarship on the Middle East: A View from the Journals,” PS: Political Science & Politics, 54(3), 2021). The reasons for the under-representation of Middle East scholarship in conflict research are understandable. The prevalence of war/instability makes it difficult to collect data in systematic ways, and the language skills and contextual knowledge required to compensate for this lack of standard data are in short supply among political scientists.
A Novel Ensemble‐Based Parameter Estimation for Improving Ocean Biogeochemistry in an Earth System Model
Authors: Singh Tarkeshwar , Counillon François , Tjiputra Jerry , Wang Yiguo
Published: February 2025

Estimating ocean biogeochemistry (BGC) parameters in Earth System Models is challenging due to multiple error sources and interlinked parameter sensitivities. Reducing the temperature and salinity bias in the ocean physical component of the Norwegian Earth System Model (NorESM) diminishes the BGC state bias at intermediate depth but leads to a greater bias increase near the surface. This suggests that BGC parameters are tuned to compensate for the physical ocean model biases. We successfully apply the iterative ensemble smoother data assimilation technique to estimate BGC parameters in NorESM with reduced bias in its physical ocean component. We estimate BGC parameters based on the monthly climatological error of nitrate, phosphate, and oxygen in a coupled reanalysis of NorESM that assimilates observed monthly climatology of temperature and salinity. First, we compare the performance of globally uniform and spatially varying parameter estimations. Both approaches reduce BGC bias obtained with default parameters, even for variables not assimilated in the parameter estimation (e.g., fluxes and primary production). While spatial parameter estimation performs locally best, it also increases biases in areas with few observations, and overall performs poorer than global parameter estimation. A second iteration further reduces the bias in the near‐surface BGC with global parameter estimation. Finally, we assess the performance of global estimated parameters in a 30‐year coupled reanalysis produced by assimilating time‐varying temperature and salinity observations. This reanalysis reduces error by 10%–20% for phosphate, nitrate, oxygen, and dissolved inorganic carbon compared to a reanalysis done with default parameters.
InSAR Reveals Recovery of Stressed Aquifer Systems in Parts of Delhi, India: Evidence for Improved Groundwater Management
Authors: Kumar Hrishikesh , Syed Tajdarul Hassan , Amelung Falk , Mirzaee Sara , Venkatesh A. S. , Agrawal Ritesh
Published: February 2025

While most recent assessments of groundwater resources disclose drastic overexploitation in the Northwestern parts of India, for the first time, we reveal that effective regulatory measures have resulted in substantial recovery of heavily stressed aquifer systems in India's capital (Delhi). We use advanced InSAR techniques to derive high‐quality vertical displacement time series for October 2014–October 2023. Our results reveal a halting of subsidence since mid‐2016 in the Dwarka area and subsequent rebound of the aquifer system by 5–10 cm at an uplift rate reaching ∼2 cm/year. Even the subsidence zone located north of Gurgaon, which subsided by more than 1 m during the study period, exhibits exponential decay of subsidence. A significant reduction in the magnitude of subsidence in the central (from 15 to 7 cm/year) and southern parts (from 7 to 2 cm/year) is observed during 2019−October 2023 as compared to November 2014−18. In contrast, the subsidence rate in Faridabad, located outside the administrative boundary of Delhi, increased by 2 cm/year from August 2017 onwards. Our analysis suggests a gain in groundwater storage (0.002–0.007 km3/year) and the onset of pore pressure saturation due to groundwater level recovery in the Dwarka area. The decay of subsidence in the subsidence zone near Gurgaon suggests reduced groundwater extraction/enhanced recharge. The recovery of groundwater levels by more than 1.5 m over the entire Delhi is evident from 2018 onwards despite decreasing rainfall trend and is attributed to improved groundwater management.
Reanalysis and Forecasting of Total Water Storage and Hydrological States by Combining Machine Learning With CLM Model Simulations and GRACE Data Assimilation
Authors: Li Fupeng , Springer Anne , Kusche Jürgen , Gutknecht Benjamin D. , Ewerdwalbesloh Yorck
Published: February 2025

Hydrological Models face limitations in simulating the water cycle due to deficiencies in process representation and such problems also weaken their forecasting skills. Here, we use Machine Learning (ML) to forecast the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) derived total water storage anomaly (TWSA) up to 1 year ahead over Europe with near real‐time meteorological observations as predictors. Subsequently, we assimilate the forecasted and GRACE TWSA into the Community Land Model (CLM) to enhance its performance in both reanalysis and forecast. As found in five hindcast experiments, ML forecasted TWSA for the following year fits quite well to the actual GRACE observations over Europe, with an average correlation of 0.91, 0.92, and 0.94 in the Iberian peninsula, Danube, and Volga basins. Validation by observations and reanalysis data suggests that assimilating forecasted TWSA can improve CLM's capacity to forecast not only hydrological states but also hydrological droughts. Additionally, ML forecasted TWSA is a viable alternative to GRACE data in terms of enhancing hydrological forecasting on seasonal to annual scales through Data assimilation (DA). We also highlight the contribution of GRACE DA for generating a CLM based TWSA reanalysis that overcomes deficiencies of purely model‐based TWSA. This study suggests that seasonal drought or water resource forecasting services might not only consider to integrate GRACE TWSA but would also benefit from constraining models with ML‐forecasted TWSA. At shorter timescales, such forecasts could also be useful in the quick‐look analysis of near real‐time TWSA processing as is suggested for upcoming satellite gravity missions.
CD301b+ dendritic cell-derived IL-2 dictates CD4+ T helper cell differentiation
Authors: Tatsumi Naoya , El-Fenej Jihad , Davila-Pagan Alejandro , Kumamoto Yosuke
Published: February 2025

T helper (Th) cell differentiation is fundamental to functional adaptive immunity. Different subsets of dendritic cells (DC) preferentially induce different types of Th cells, but the DC-derived mechanism for Th type 2 (Th2) differentiation is not fully understood. Here, we show that in mice, CD301b+ DCs, a major Th2-inducing DC subset, drive Th2 differentiation through cognate interaction by rapidly inducing IL-2 receptor signalling in CD4+ T cells. Mechanistically, CD40 engagement prompts IL-2 production selectively from CD301b+ DCs to maximize CD25 expression in CD4+ T cells, which instructs the Th2 fate decision, while simultaneously skewing CD4+ T cells away from the T follicular helper fate. Moreover, CD301b+ DCs utilize their own CD25 to facilitate directed action of IL-2 toward cognate CD4+ T cells, as genetic deletion of CD25 in CD301b+ DCs results in reduced IL-2-mediated signalling in antigen-specific CD4+ T cells and hence their Th2 differentiation. These results highlight the critical role of DC-intrinsic CD40–IL-2 axis in Th cell fate decision.
Continued Atlantic overturning circulation even under climate extremes
Authors: Baker J. A. , Bell M. J. , Jackson L. C. , Vallis G. K. , Watson A. J. , Wood R. A.
Published: February 2025

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), vital for northwards heat transport in the Atlantic Ocean, is projected to weaken owing to global warming1, with significant global climate impacts2. However, the extent of AMOC weakening is uncertain with wide variation across climate models1,3,4 and some statistical indicators suggesting an imminent collapse5. Here we show that the AMOC is resilient to extreme greenhouse gas and North Atlantic freshwater forcings across 34 climate models. Upwelling in the Southern Ocean, driven by persistent Southern Ocean winds, sustains a weakened AMOC in all cases, preventing its complete collapse. As Southern Ocean upwelling must be balanced by downwelling in the Atlantic or Pacific, the AMOC can only collapse if a compensating Pacific Meridional Overturning Circulation (PMOC) develops. Remarkably, a PMOC does emerge in almost all models, but it is too weak to balance all of the Southern Ocean upwelling, suggesting that an AMOC collapse is unlikely this century. Our findings reveal AMOC-stabilizing mechanisms with implications for past and future AMOC changes, and hence for ecosystems and ocean biogeochemistry. They suggest that better understanding and estimates of the Southern Ocean and Indo-Pacific circulations are urgently needed to accurately predict future AMOC change.
DFT insights into bandgap engineering of lead-free LiMCl3 (M = Mg, Be) halide perovskites for optoelectronic device applications
Authors: Datta Apon Kumar , Hossain M. Khalid , Rahman Md. Shahriar , Paramasivam Prabhu , El-marghany Adel , Mishra V. K.
Published: February 2025

In this theoretical analysis, the pressure-dependent structural, electronic, mechanical, and optoelectronic properties of LiMCl3 (M = Mg, Be) have been calculated using density functional theory within the framework of the GGA PBE and hybrid HSE06 functional. At ambient pressure, the calculated lattice parameters of LiMCl3 match well with previously reported values, validating the accuracy of this study. Geometry optimization reveals that under increasing hydrostatic pressure, both the lattice parameters and the unit cell volume decrease. Additionally, the band structure exhibits notable phenomena over the pressure range from 0 to 100 GPa. For the LiMgCl3 compound, the bandgap decreases from an indirect bandgap of 4 eV to a direct bandgap of 2.563 eV. Similarly, LiBeCl3 shows an indirect bandgap that decreases from 2.388 eV to 0.096 eV over the pressure range from 0 to 100 GPa. The optical properties of LiMCl3, including absorption coefficient, reflectivity, refractive index, dielectric function, and conductivity, have been calculated throughout the study under varying pressure conditions. The analysis reveals that the optical properties of LiMCl3 (M = Be, Mg) enhance with increasing hydrostatic pressure, thereby rendering these materials more suitable for optoelectronic applications. To assess the stability of these compounds, elastic constants were analyzed, indicating that LiMCl3 exhibits ductile and anisotropic characteristics under different pressure conditions. These investigated materials are suitable for use in optoelectronic devices due to their favorable physical properties under different pressure circumstances.
The impact of goat hair as a natural animal fiber on properties of the lightweight cement composite
Authors: Hassas Najmeh , Omidi Moaf Farzam , Kurpińska Marzena , Bardzińska-Bonenberg Teresa , Borucka Justyna , Abdelgader Hakim S. , Soman Rohan , Miśkiewicz Mikołaj
Published: February 2025

The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly construction materials has prompted the exploration of natural fibers as reinforcement in cement composites. This study investigates the potential of goat hair as a natural fiber reinforcement in lightweight cement composites to enhance mechanical properties and sustainability. The research evaluates goat-hair-reinforced composites’ flexural and compressive strengths at 7 and 28 days after mixing. The results show that the inclusion of goat hair at a rate of 0.4% of cement, as a reinforcing material, leads to a significant increase in flexural and compressive strength. Specifically, flexural strength increased by 2.5% and 21.8%, while compressive strength improved by 5.5% and 21.5% at water-to-cement ratios of 0.4 and 0.5, respectively, compared to the control mixture. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of goat hair in improving mechanical performance while reducing the environmental footprint of construction materials. This study highlights the need for further exploration of natural fibers in sustainable construction practices, focusing on optimizing mechanical performance and eco-friendly materials for broader applications.
Baculoviruses remodel the cytoskeleton of insect hemocytes to breach the host basal lamina
Authors: Kokusho Ryuhei , Katsuma Susumu
Published: February 2025

Many pathogens and endosymbionts hijack the host’s cytoskeleton for efficient propagation and transfer within or between host cells. Once released into the host’s circulatory system, however, they have to confront structural barriers without utilizing host cell functions. Many insect viruses and insect-borne viruses can re-enter from the hemolymph into insect tissues despite the barrier of the basal lamina (BL), but the molecular mechanism remains unclear in many cases. Here, we demonstrate that Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) remodels host hemocytes to breach the BL. We found that the viral membrane protein actin rearrangement-inducing factor 1 (ARIF-1) induces filopodia-like protrusions and invadosome-like structures in hemocytes, which play a critical role in attaching to the tissue surface, penetrating the tracheal BL and thus facilitating the transport of viral nucleocapsids into host tissues. Our findings clearly show the role of hemocyte infection in viral systemic spread and its molecular basis.
Tree growth is better explained by absorptive fine root traits than by transport fine root traits
Authors: Sanaei Anvar , van der Plas Fons , Chen Hongmei , Davids Sophie , Eckhardt Susanne , Hennecke Justus , Kahl Anja , Möller Yasmin , Richter Ronny , Schütze Jana , Wirth Christian , Weigelt Alexandra
Published: February 2025

Although the interest in root traits has increased in recent years, we still have limited knowledge of (i) whether functionally different fine roots—absorptive versus transport roots—have similar trait coordination and (ii) how they help to explain plant performance, such as growth. We measured traits of 25 European broadleaved tree species growing in a research arboretum to study (i) the coordination of root traits within absorptive and transport fine roots and (ii) the degree of trait-tree growth relationships. To do so, we combined a suite of morphological and anatomical traits for each of the absorptive and transport roots. Despite remarkable differences in average trait values between absorptive and transport roots, our study shows that trait coordination within absorptive and transport roots is relatively similar. Our results also show that, for the selected traits, tree growth is better explained by absorptive root traits than by transport root traits and is higher in species with thinner roots. The stronger relationship between absorptive roots and tree growth highlights that roots mostly involved with resource absorption are more important in explaining tree growth than transport roots, which are mainly responsible for resource transportation.
Sustainable solutions for water scarcity: a review of electrostatic fog harvesting technology
Authors: Li Dingchen , Li Chuan , Xiao Menghan , Zhang Ming , Li Jiawei , Yang Zhiwen , Fu Qixiong , Yu Kexun , Yang Yong , Pan Yuan , Du Yaping , Zhao Xiangen
Published: February 2025

Amid global climate change and population growth, traditional water acquisition methods face challenges. Electrostatic fog harvesting technology offers a novel solution for arid regions, leveraging space charges and electric fields to convert fog into usable water. This article explores the fundamental processes, structure, and enhancement methods of electrostatic fog collectors (EFC), focusing on recent research progress. We offer a prospective perspective on the future research of electrostatic fog harvesting technology, with the aim of facilitating the transition of this technology from scientific research to practical application.
An Integrated Microfluidic Chip for Rapid and Multiple Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
Authors: Pang Zirui , Shi Lulu , Wang Mingyu , Tao Jifang
Published: February 2025

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics have caused the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which poses a significant threat to human health. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) serves as an effective...
Novel Perovskite-Based Betavoltaic Cell: Dual Additive Strategy for Enhanced FAPbI3 α-phase Stability and Performance
Authors: Kim Chol Hyun , Naseem Muhammad Bilal , Lee Junho , Kim Hong Soo , Lee Sanghun , In Su-il
Published: February 2025

By utilizing chlorine-based dual additives with perovskite film and radioactive isotopes of carbon nanoparticles/quantum dots (14CNP/CQD) electrodes, we enhanced the phase stability and power conversion efficiency of the betavoltaic device....
Analysis of axial resistivity during SiC crystal growth by PVT method
Authors: Xuan Lingling , Xie Xinyu , Xu Binjie , Lu Sheng'ou , Wang Anqi , Lingmao Xu , Pi Xiaodong , Yang Deren , Han Xuefeng
Published: February 2025

Nitrogen doped n-type SiC substrates are extensively employed for high-power devices thanks to its excellent physical properties. However, the growth of SiC single crystals via the physical vapor transport method...
Prism[n]arene-alkyl dibromide (n = 5, 6) synergy: Molecular affinity in the solid state
Authors: Vinodh Mickey , Abdeljaber Nour O. , Alipour Fatemeh H , Al-Azemi Talal F
Published: February 2025

Single crystals of prism[5]arene and prism[6]arene were grown from solutions containing either 1,6-dibromohexane or 1,8-dibromooctane. The deeper cavity of the prism[5]arene macrocycle efficiently encapsulated longer alkyl dibromide guests compared to...
Sulfur-linked cyanoterphenyl-based liquid crystal dimers and the twist-bend nematic phase
Authors: Cruickshank Ewan , Pearson Abigail , Strachan Grant , Pociecha Damian , Gorecka Ewa , Storey John M. D. , Imrie Corrie T.
Published: February 2025

The synthesis and characterisation of two series of cyanoterphenyl-based liquid crystal dimers containing sulfur links between the spacer and mesogenic units, the 34-{ω-[(4'-cyano-[1,1’-biphenyl]-4-yl)thio]alkyl}-[11,21:24,31-terphenyl]-14-carbonitriles (CBSnCT), and the 34-({ω-[(4'-cyano-[1,1’-biphenyl]-4-yl)thio]alkyl}oxy)-[11,21:24,31-terphenyl]-14-carbonitriles (CBSnOCT) are described....
Vibrational perturbations in the spectra of N-substituted polycyclic aromatic heterocycles revealed by rotational analysis
Authors: Chawananon S. , Pirali O. , Goubet M. , Asselin P.
Published: February 2025

PAH derivatives should be more studied in the IR range to support astronomic observations, as displayed by the rovibrational spectrum of a C–H ring bending mode of quinoxaline. Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA & CSA, P. Zeidler, E. Sabbi, A. Nota, M. Zamani.
Digestibility and enteric release achieved with microencapsulates made from emulsion-templated plant proteins
Authors: Browning Luke Wayne , Wang Huafu , Taylor James Ward , Wilde Pete , Rodriquez-Garcia Marc , Holland Lynette , Knowles Tuomas
Published: February 2025

Microencapsulation of functional ingredients in food and drinks can improve their stability through manufacture, shelf-life, and digestion. A key challenge is to discover materials and approaches that allow cargo to...
Improving dietary energy and antioxidative property benefit early maternal BMI and further manage adverse pregnancy outcomes with better weight gain
Authors: Li Hang-Yu , Ding Bing-Jie , Wang Jia , Yang Xinli , Ge Zhi-Wen , Wang Nan , Li Ya-Ru , Bi Yan-Xia , Wang Cong-Cong , Shi Zhengli , Wang Yu-Xia , Wang Yi-Si , Li Cheng , Peng Ze-Bin , Hong Zhongxin
Published: February 2025

Dietary characteristics affect maternal status in early pregnancy, which is important for later outcomes. Yet, Chinese dietary guidelines for pregnant women are not specific to obesity, overweight, and underweight. Moreover,...
Droplet microfluidic method for measurement of ultralow interfacial tension in ternary fluid systems
Authors: Dinh Thai , Casal Robert , Cubaud Thomas
Published: February 2025

We experimentally investigate droplet pattern formation in coaxial microchannels using ternary mixtures of two immiscible fluids and a miscible solvent. The influence of solvent concentration is examined through periodic pattern...
Optimizing optical anisotropy in low-dimensional structures via intralayer hydrogen bonding modulation and anionic substitution
Authors: Arif Muhammad , Liu Xu , Jia Hangwei , Yang Zhihua , Hou Xueling , Pan Shilie
Published: February 2025

Aminopyrazine forms low-dimensional structures with enhanced birefringence, driven by optimal coplanarity among birefringent active units regulated by [N–H⋯X] hydrogen bonds.
Self-recoverable broadband near infrared mechanoluminescence from BaGa12O19:Cr3+ by multi-site occupation strategy
Authors: wang xuesong , Xiao Yao , Xiong Puxian , zheng pan , Wu Sheng , Zhou Zhiyao , Xiao Binli , Shao Peishan , zhang meihui , liu jianhui , Gan Jiulin , qang yan , Qian Qi
Published: February 2025

Near infrared mechanoluminescence (NIR-ML) materials have attracted the attention of researchers due to their unique advantages, such as high resistance to bright-field interference and higher penetration depth into biological tissues....
Biohybrid microrobots with a Spirulina skeleton and MOF skin for efficient organic pollutant adsorption
Authors: Li Yongcheng , Li Dajian , Zheng Yuhong , Lu Sirui , Cai Yuepeng , Dong Renfeng
Published: February 2025

Biohybrid microrobot (Spirulina, Fe3O4, ZIF-8) rapidly adsorbs organic pollutants and navigates narrow gaps directionally via magnetic steering.
Bio-based Recyclable Polydithioacetal Covalent Adaptable Networks with Activation Temperature-Tunable Shape Memory Property
Authors: Cui Chenhui , Zhao Xiejun , Wang Xinyi , Guo Yinzhou , Chen Kexiang , Ma Jia , Yan Xueping , Cheng Yilong , Ge Zhishen , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: February 2025

The extensive development of polymer materials from fossil resources poses serious environmental challenges. Therefore, developing recyclable functional materials from biomass is crucial. Here, we confirmed the reversible exchange ability of...