bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The emergence of case matching in discontinuous DPs
Authors: Clem Emily , Dawson Virginia
Published: February 2024

This paper explores a distinction between two phenomena that yield multiple realizations of case associated with one nominal. The first is the familiar type of nominal case concord; the second is a new phenomenon we label “case iteration.” While case concord involves the morphological realization of case on categorially distinct elements via feature sharing, case iteration arises via a separate mechanism and involves the realization of multiple instances of a functional head, which we model as D. In this sense, the case concord/case iteration distinction mirrors the agreement/clitic doubling distinction in the domain of argument-predicate matching. We argue for the existence of case iteration as a separate phenomenon primarily on the basis of novel data from Tiwa (Tibeto-Burman; India). In Tiwa, traditional case concord in continuous DPs is ruled out, but case iteration is obligatory in discontinuous DPs. We also demonstrate that this phenomenon is attested in Amahuaca (Panoan; Peru) and explore related patterns crosslinguistically.
FCPFNet: Feature Complementation Network with Pyramid Fusion for Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Lei Jingsheng , Shu Chente , Xu Qiang , Yu Yunxiang , Yang Shengying
Published: February 2024

Traditional pyramid pooling modules have shown effective improvements in semantic segmentation tasks by capturing multi-scale feature information. However, their limitations arise from the shallow structure, which fails to fully extract contextual information, and the fused multi-scale feature information lacks distinctiveness, resulting in issues with the final segmentation discriminability. To address these issues, we proposes an effective solution called FCPFNet, which is based on global contextual prior for deep feature extraction of detailed information. Specifically, we introduce a novel deep feature aggregation module to extract semantic information from the output feature map of each layer through a deep aggregation of context information module, and expands the effective perception range. Additionally, we propose an Efficient Pyramid Pooling Module (EPPM) to capture distinctive features through communicating information between different sub-features and performs multi-scale fusion, which is integrated as a branch within the network to complement the information loss resulting from downsampling operations. Furthermore, in order to ensure the richness of image detail feature information and maintain a large receptive field to obtain more contextual information, EPPM concatenates the input feature map and the output feature map of the pyramid pooling module to acquire more comprehensive global contextual information. It has been demonstrated by experiment that the method described in this article achieves competitive performance on the challenging scene segmentation datasets Pascal VOC 2012, Cityscapes and Coco-Stuff, with MIOU of 81.0%, 78.8% and 40.1%, respectively.
The Role of the Human Cerebellum for Learning from and Processing of External Feedback in Non-Motor Learning: A Systematic Review
Authors: Berlijn Adam M. , Huvermann Dana M. , Schneider Sandra , Bellebaum Christian , Timmann Dagmar , Minnerop Martina , Peterburs Jutta
Published: February 2024

This review aimed to systematically identify and comprehensively review the role of the cerebellum in performance monitoring, focusing on learning from and on processing of external feedback in non-motor learning. While 1078 articles were screened for eligibility, ultimately 36 studies were included in which external feedback was delivered in cognitive tasks and which referenced the cerebellum. These included studies in patient populations with cerebellar damage and studies in healthy subjects applying neuroimaging. Learning performance in patients with different cerebellar diseases was heterogeneous, with only about half of all patients showing alterations. One patient study using EEG demonstrated that damage to the cerebellum was associated with altered neural processing of external feedback. Studies assessing brain activity with task-based fMRI or PET and one resting-state functional imaging study that investigated connectivity changes following feedback-based learning in healthy participants revealed involvement particularly of lateral and posterior cerebellar regions in processing of and learning from external feedback. Cerebellar involvement was found at different stages, e.g., during feedback anticipation and following the onset of the feedback stimuli, substantiating the cerebellum’s relevance for different aspects of performance monitoring such as feedback prediction. Future research will need to further elucidate precisely how, where, and when the cerebellum modulates the prediction and processing of external feedback information, which cerebellar subregions are particularly relevant, and to what extent cerebellar diseases alter these processes.
Low binder content bricks: a regolith-based solution for sustainable surface construction on the Moon
Authors: Torre Roberto , Cowley Aidan , Ferro Carlo Giovanni
Published: February 2024

This work proposes a composite construction material made by a blend of lunar regolith and thermoplastic binders in dry powder form. This solution offers advantages over regolith sintering or melting by requiring lower power consumption and simplifying the manufacturing process. However, its sustainability depends on minimizing the content of the binder material. Drawing from validated concepts used on Earth, such as polymeric concrete and compressed Earth bricks, this paper suggests that binder optimization can be achieved by simplifying and streamlining the manufacturing process, targeting parts with predefined shapes. Standardized elements like bricks or tiles ease production and assembly automation, especially when incorporating interlocking features, simplifying the payload concept transition. After drafting the process with a minimum number of basic steps, this work studies the effects of some process parameters to minimize the weight percentage of the matrix while maintaining reasonable mechanical properties. The compressive and the flexural strength are the targets of an orthogonal array Design of Experiment. Through comparison with reference values for civil engineering, the process demonstrates promising results within an organic phase as low as 10 wt%.
Transdisciplinary contributions in undergraduate university students through a stratospheric balloon project with an astrobiological focus
Authors: Chon-Torres Octavio Alfonso , Macassi Zavala Diego Antonio , Ramos Ramirez Julio Cesar , Santos Jimenez Ofelia Carmen , Lazarte Oyague Saby Evelyn , Murga-Moreno César Andreé
Published: February 2024

In a rapidly changing academic-scientific context, it is essential to adapt new learning strategies that foster the acquisition of new knowledge and the development of skills in future professionals, such as interacting synergistically with disciplines outside their own to execute projects successfully and comprehensively. The adaptation is only possible thanks to the inter and transdisciplinarity that Astrobiology has promoted since its inception. We use the term transdisciplinary for education that integrates different disciplines in a way to build new knowledge and increase the student's knowledge and skills. For this reason, this study aimed to demonstrate that an astrobiological stratospheric balloon launch project cultivates transdisciplinary awareness in participants: undergraduate university students in Lima, Peru. The sample consisted of 15 students from the following disciplines: biology, genetics, chemical engineering, physics, industrial engineering, agri-food engineering, forestry engineering, electronics engineering, mechatronics engineering, geology, geological engineering, philosophy, social communication, audiovisual communication and education. Using a semi-structured in-depth interview technique, experts validated the questions from the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Peru, and a matrix of meaning was constructed to classify the responses, ultimately obtaining the categories: contribution, complementarity and quantity. The participants' responses were processed and analyzed with Chat-GPT 3.5, revealing unanimous agreement that each participant's discipline contributed to the success of the balloon launch. To complement the qualitative interpretation of the results, a quantitative measurement was conducted to minimize subjective biases. Additionally, they gained knowledge and insights into other unfamiliar study subjects, collaborated to improve process quality, shared and harmonized their ideas to implement comprehensive solutions, and affirmed that their university education is often isolated or strictly focused on their specialization. In conclusion, experiences where different areas of knowledge converge in praxis, have the potential to awaken new technical, cognitive and communication skills in the individuals involved, utilizing astrobiological resources to invigorate and strengthen collective learning.
‘When it goes well, it works fantastically’: motivations to train and their impact on the practice of CBT
Authors: Roscoe Jason , Wilbraham Susan
Published: February 2024

Cognitive behavioural therapy training courses recruit individuals from a wide range of professional backgrounds; however, little is known about the motivations of individuals to train in CBT, compared with other therapeutic modalities. Previous research has found that role transition generates multiple intrapersonal conflicts for trainees, therefore it is of interest to better understand the impact of motivational factors on the experience of learning and practising CBT. Forty-three qualified CBT practitioners completed an online questionnaire with the data analysed using a grounded theory approach. A core category of ‘Alignment with CBT’ was drawn from the data, characterised by two distinct groups of therapists – ‘CBT endorsers’ and ‘career enhancers’. A model was developed consisting of universal and group specific factors related to motivation. The findings add to the literature on the impact of therapist characteristics on CBT practice. Practical applications of the model for trainers and supervisors are discussed.

Key learning aims

As a result of reading this paper, readers should:

(1)

Understand how various motivations to train in CBT affect engagement with theories and interventions;

(2)

Be able to identify some of their own intrapersonal challenges in the application of CBT formulations and interventions;

(3)

Recognise training and supervision strategies that might assist with identifying and managing challenges related to epistemic style and theoretical orientation.
Burial and subsequent growth of rigid ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) and ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus) following strategic deep tillage
Authors: Borger Catherine P. D. , Mwenda George , Collins Sarah J. , Davies Stephen L. , Peerzada Arslan Masood , van Burgel Andrew
Published: February 2024

Soil amelioration via strategic deep tillage is occasionally utilized within conservation tillage systems to alleviate soil constraints, but its impact on weed seed burial and subsequent growth within the agronomic system is poorly understood. This study assessed the effects of different strategic deep-tillage practices, including soil loosening (deep ripping), soil mixing (rotary spading), or soil inversion (moldboard plow), on weed seed burial and subsequent weed growth, compared with a no-till control. The tillage practices were applied in 2019 at Yerecoin and Darkan, WA, and data on weed seed burial and growth were collected during the following 3-yr winter crop rotation (2019 to 2021). Soil inversion buried 89% of rigid ryegrass (Lolium rigidum Gaudin) and ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus Roth) seeds to a depth of 10 to 20 cm at both sites, while soil loosening and mixing left between 31% and 91% of the seeds in the top 0 to 10 cm of soil, with broad variation between sites. Few seeds were buried beyond 20 cm despite tillage working depths exceeding 30 cm at both sites. Soil inversion reduced the density of L. rigidum to <1 plant m−2 for 3 yr after strategic tillage. Bromus diandrus density was initially reduced to 0 to 1 plant m−2 by soil inversion, but increased to 4 plants m−2 at Yerecoin in 2020 and 147 plants at Darkan in 2021. Soil loosening or mixing did not consistently decrease weed density. The field data were used to parameterize a model that predicted weed density following strategic tillage with greater accuracy for soil inversion than for loosening or mixing. The findings provide important insights into the effects of strategic deep tillage on weed management in conservational agricultural systems and demonstrate the potential of models for optimizing weed management strategies.
Divergent Impacts of Biomass Burning and Fossil Fuel Combustion Aerosols on Fog‐Cloud Microphysics and Chemistry: Novel Insights From Advanced Aerosol‐Fog Sampling
Authors: Kuang Ye , Xu Weiqi , Tao Jiangchuan , Luo Biao , Liu Li , Xu Hanbin , Xu Wanyun , Xue Biao , Zhai Miaomiao , Liu Pengfei , Sun Yele
Published: February 2024

Activation of biomass burning aerosols (BBA) and fossil fuel combustion aerosols (FFA) in fogs and clouds significantly impact regional air quality through aqueous chemistry and climate by affecting cloud microphysics. However, we lack direct observations of how these aerosols behave in fogs and clouds. Using a newly developed aerosol‐cloud sampling system, we conducted observations during fog events and found that BBA, despite their high organic content, effectively contributed to super‐micron interstitial aerosols and fog droplets in low supersaturation fogs. In contrast, FFA, predominantly externally mixed organic, did not grow beyond the super‐micron size in fogs due to their near‐hydrophobic nature. Measurements conducted under supersaturations relevant for cloud formation revealed that portions of FFA could serve as cloud condensation nuclei, but only when supersaturation exceeded ∼0.14%. These findings have broad implications for future investigations into the influence of BBA and FFA on fog and cloud chemistry and their interactions with clouds.
Genetic analysis of the X chromosome in people with Lewy body dementia nominates new risk loci
Authors: Bayram Ece , Reho Paolo , Litvan Irene ,   International LBD Genomics Consortium, Ding Jinhui , Gibbs J. Raphael , Dalgard Clifton L. , Traynor Bryan J. , Scholz Sonja W. , Chia Ruth
Published: February 2024

Sex influences the prevalence and symptoms of Lewy body dementia (LBD). However, genome-wide association studies typically focus on autosomal variants and exclude sex-specific risk factors. We addressed this gap by performing an X chromosome-wide association study using whole-genome sequence data from 2591 LBD cases and 4391 controls. We identified a significant risk locus within intron 1 of MAP3K15 (rs141773145, odds ratio = 2.42, 95% confidence interval = 1.65–3.56, p-value = 7.0 × 10−6) in female LBD cases conditioned for APOE ε4 dosage. The locus includes an enhancer region that regulates MAP3K15 expression in ganglionic eminence cells derived from primary cultured neurospheres. Rare variant burden testing showed differential enrichment of missense mutations in TEX13A in female LBD cases, that did not reach significance (p-value = 1.34 × 10−4). These findings support the sex-specific effects of genetic factors and a potential role of Alzheimer’s-related risk for females with LBD.
The genetic basis and the diagnostic yield of genetic testing related to nonsyndromic hearing loss in Qatar
Authors: Alkhidir Shaza , El-Akouri Karen , Al-Dewik Nader , Khodjet-El-khil Houssein , Okashah Sarah , Islam Nazmul , Ben-Omran Tawfeg , Al-Shafai Mashael
Published: February 2024

Hearing loss is the most predominant sensory defect occurring in pediatrics, of which, 66% cases are attributed to genetic factors. The prevalence of hereditary hearing loss increases in consanguineous populations, and the prevalence of hearing loss in Qatar is 5.2%. We aimed to investigate the genetic basis of nonsyndromic hearing loss (NSHL) in Qatar and to evaluate the diagnostic yield of different genetic tests available. A retrospective chart review was conducted for 59 pediatric patients with NSHL referred to the Department of Adult and Pediatric Medical Genetics at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar, and who underwent at least one genetic test. Out of the 59 patients, 39 were solved cases due to 19 variants in 11 genes and two copy number variants that explained the NSHL phenotype. Of them 2 cases were initially uncertain and were reclassified using familial segregation. Around 36.8% of the single variants were in GJB2 gene and c.35delG was the most common recurrent variant seen in solved cases. We detected the c.283C > T variant in FGF3 that was seen in a Qatari patient and found to be associated with NSHL for the first time. The overall diagnostic yield was 30.7%, and the diagnostic yield was significantly associated with genetic testing using GJB2 sequencing and using the hearing loss (HL) gene panel. The diagnostic yield for targeted familial testing was 60% (n = 3 patients) and for gene panel was 50% (n = 5). Thus, we recommend using GJB2 gene sequencing as a first-tier genetic test and HL gene panel as a second-tier genetic test for NSHL. Our work provided new insights into the genetic pool of NSHL among Arabs and highlights its unique diversity, this is believed to help further in the diagnostic and management options for NSHL Arab patients.
Machine learning analysis for the association between breast feeding and metabolic syndrome in women
Authors: Lee Jue Seong , Choi Eun-Saem , Lee Hwasun , Son Serhim , Lee Kwang-Sig , Ahn Ki Hoon
Published: February 2024

This cross-sectional study aimed to develop and validate population-based machine learning models for examining the association between breastfeeding and metabolic syndrome in women. The artificial neural network, the decision tree, logistic regression, the Naïve Bayes, the random forest and the support vector machine were developed and validated to predict metabolic syndrome in women. Data came from 30,204 women, who aged 20 years or more and participated in the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2010–2019. The dependent variable was metabolic syndrome. The 86 independent variables included demographic/socioeconomic determinants, cardiovascular disease, breastfeeding duration and other medical/obstetric information. The random forest had the best performance in terms of the area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve, e.g., 90.7%. According to random forest variable importance, the top predictors of metabolic syndrome included body mass index (0.1032), medication for hypertension (0.0552), hypertension (0.0499), cardiovascular disease (0.0453), age (0.0437) and breastfeeding duration (0.0191). Breastfeeding duration is a major predictor of metabolic syndrome for women together with body mass index, diagnosis and medication for hypertension, cardiovascular disease and age.
Bioactive silver nanoparticles fabricated using Lasiurus scindicus and Panicum turgidum seed extracts: anticancer and antibacterial efficiency
Authors: Alburae Najla , Alshamrani Rahma , Mohammed Afrah E.
Published: February 2024

Applying extracts from plants is considered a safe approach in biomedicine and bio-nanotechnology. The present report is considered the first study that evaluated the seeds of Lasiurus scindicus and Panicum turgidum as biogenic agents in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) which had bioactivity against cancer cells and bacteria. Assessment of NPs activity against varied cell lines (colorectal cancer HCT116 and breast cancer MDA MBA 231 and MCF 10A used as control) was performed beside the antibacterial efficiency. Different techniques (DLS, TEM, EDX and FTIR) were applied to characterize the biosynthesized AgNPs. The phytochemicals from both L. scindicus and Panicum turgidum were identified by GC–MS analysis. Spherical monodisperse NPs at average diameters of 149.6 and 100.4 nm were obtained from seed extract of L. scindicus (L-AgNPs) and P. turgidum, (P-AgNPs) respectively. A strong absorption peak at 3 keV is observed by the EDX spectrum in the tested NPs. Our study provided effective NPs in mitigating the tested cell lines and the lowest IC50 were 7.8 and 10.30 for MDA MB231 treated by L-AgNPs and P-AgNPs, respectively. Both fabricated NPs might differentially target the MDA MB231 cells compared to HCT116 and MCF10A. Ultrastructural changes and damage for the NPs-treated MDA MB231 cells were studied using TEM and LSM analysis. Antibacterial activity was also observed. About 200 compounds were identified in L. scindicus and P. turgidum by GC–MS analysis might be responsible for the NPs reduction and capping abilities. Efficient NPs against cancer cells and microbes were obtained, however large-scale screening is needed to validate our findings.
Stress and strain relations of RC circular, square and rectangular columns externally wrapped with fiber ropes
Authors: Hussain Qudeer , Ruangrassamee Anat , Jirawattanasomkul Tidarut , Zhang Dawei
Published: February 2024

This study explores the potential use of low-cost natural fiber reinforced rope polymers (FRRP) to improve the compressive behavior of circular, square, and rectangular reinforced concrete (RC) specimens. A total of 42 specimens were tested under monotonic axial compression in three groups. Groups were formed to differentiate specimens with different cross-sectional shapes such as circular, square, and rectangular. The findings demonstrate that FRRP can effectively boost the compressive behavior of RC columns. Circular specimens with three-layer hemp FRRP exhibited a 200% increase in compressive strength and a 270% improvement in corresponding strain. Cotton FRRP provided a 117% boost in compressive strength and a 233% enhancement in strain. In square specimens, three-layer hemp FRRP resulted in a 110% rise in compressive strength and a 186% increase in strain, while cotton confinement yielded improvements of 95% and 144%, respectively. For the square and rectangular specimens, the improvement in the compressive behavior was reduced compared to the circular specimens because of stress concentrations near corners. Moreover, the study showed that the hemp FRRP confinement outperformed the cotton confinement. The investigation also revealed that the existing analytical models were inadequate in predicting the mechanical properties of RC confined with natural FRRP. Therefore, the study introduces novel equations to predict the compressive strength and corresponding strain for both hemp and cotton confined concrete in various cross-sectional types. These proposed equations exhibit a good level of accuracy in predicting the compressive strength and corresponding strain.
Global tropical cyclone extreme wave height climatology
Authors: Grossmann-Matheson Guisela , Young Ian R. , Meucci Alberto , Alves Jose-Henrique
Published: February 2024

A global study of extreme value (1 in 100-year return period) tropical cyclone generated waves is conducted across all tropical cyclone basins. The study uses a 1000 year tropical cyclone synthetic track database to force a validated parametric wave model. The resulting distributions of extreme significant wave height show that values in the North Atlantic and Western Pacific basins are the largest globally. This is partly due to the relative intensities and frequencies of occurrence of storms in these basins but also because the typical velocities of forward movement of storms are larger and hence can sustain the generation of larger waves. These larger values of velocity of forward movement tend to occur at higher latitudes. As a result, in both of these basins the largest extreme waves occur at higher latitudes than the maximum tropical cyclone winds. In all other tropical cyclone basins, storms tend to propagate more east–west and hence the maximum values of extreme significant wave height and wind speed occur at comparable latitudes.
RIS-assisted near-field localization using practical phase shift model
Authors: Hassouna Saber , Jamshed Muhammad Ali , Ur-Rehman Masood , Imran Muhammad Ali , Abbasi Qammer H.
Published: February 2024

Our research focuses on examining the problem of localizing user equipment (UE) in the uplink scenario using reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) based lens. We carry out a thorough analysis of the Fisher information matrix (FIM) and assess the influence of various RIS-based lens configurations using an actual RIS phase-dependent amplitude variations model. Furthermore, to reduce the complexity of the maximum likelihood (ML) estimator, a simple localization algorithm-based angular expansion is presented. Simulation results show superior localization performance when prior location information is available for directional and positional channel configurations. The position error bound (PEB) and the root mean square error (RMSE) are studied to evaluate the localization accuracy of the user utilizing the realistic RIS phase-dependent amplitude model in the near-field region. Furthermore, the achievable data rate is obtained in the same region using the realistic RIS phase-dependent amplitude model. It is noticed that adopting the actual RIS phase-dependent amplitude model under the near-field channel increases the localization error and degrades the data rate performance for amplitude value less than one so, the unity assumption of the RIS phase shift model used widely in the literature is inaccurate.
A continuum of amorphous ices between low-density and high-density amorphous ice
Authors: Eltareb Ali , Lopez Gustavo E. , Giovambattista Nicolas
Published: February 2024

Amorphous ices are usually classified as belonging to low-density or high-density amorphous ice (LDA and HDA) with densities ρLDA ≈ 0.94 g/cm3 and ρHDA ≈ 1.15−1.17 g/cm3. However, a recent experiment crushing hexagonal ice (ball-milling) produced a medium-density amorphous ice (MDA, ρMDA ≈ 1.06 g/cm3) adding complexity to our understanding of amorphous ice and the phase diagram of supercooled water. Motivated by the discovery of MDA, we perform computer simulations where amorphous ices are produced by isobaric cooling and isothermal compression/decompression. Our results show that, depending on the pressure employed, isobaric cooling can generate a continuum of amorphous ices with densities that expand in between those of LDA and HDA (briefly, intermediate amorphous ices, IA). In particular, the IA generated at P ≈ 125 MPa has a remarkably similar density and average structure as MDA, implying that MDA is not unique. Using the potential energy landscape formalism, we provide an intuitive qualitative understanding of the nature of LDA, HDA, and the IA generated at different pressures. In this view, LDA and HDA occupy specific and well-separated regions of the PEL; the IA prepared at P = 125 MPa is located in the intermediate region of the PEL that separates LDA and HDA.
Major changes in fish thermal habitat diversity in Canada’s Arctic lakes due to climate change
Authors: Gillis Daniel P. , Minns Charles K. , Campana Steven E. , Shuter Brian J.
Published: February 2024

Climate warming is a major disruptor of fish community structure globally. We use large-scale geospatial analyses of 447,077 Canadian Arctic lakes to predict how climate change would impact lake thermal habitat diversity across the Arctic landscape. Increases in maximum surface temperature (+2.4–6.7 °C), ice-free period (+14–38 days), and thermal stratification presence (+4.2–18.9%) occur under all climate scenarios. Lakes, currently fishless due to deep winter ice, open up; many thermally uniform lakes become thermally diverse. Resilient coldwater habitat supply is predicted; however, thermally diverse lakes shift from providing almost exclusively coldwater habitat to providing substantial coolwater habitat and previously absent warmwater habitat. Across terrestrial ecozones, most lakes exhibit major shifts in thermal habitat. The prevalence of thermally diverse lakes more than doubles, providing refuge for coldwater taxa. Ecozone-specific differences in the distribution of thermally diverse and thermally uniform lakes require different management strategies for adapting fish resource use to climate change.
Antimicrobial peptide glatiramer acetate targets Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipopolysaccharides to breach membranes without altering lipopolysaccharide modification
Authors: Murphy Ronan A. , Pizzato Jade , Cuthbertson Leah , Sabnis Akshay , Edwards Andrew M. , Nolan Laura M. , Vorup-Jensen Thomas , Larrouy-Maumus Gerald , Davies Jane C.
Published: February 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are key components of innate immunity across all domains of life. Natural and synthetic AMPs are receiving renewed attention in efforts to combat the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis and the loss of antibiotic efficacy. The gram-negative pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most concerning infecting bacteria in AMR, particularly in people with cystic fibrosis (CF) where respiratory infections are difficult to eradicate and associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Cationic AMPs exploit the negatively charged lipopolysaccharides (LPS) on P. aeruginosa to bind and disrupt bacterial membrane(s), causing lethal damage. P. aeruginosa modifies its LPS to evade AMP killing. Free-LPS is also a component of CF sputum and feeds pro-inflammatory cycles. Glatiramer acetate (GA) is a random peptide co-polymer—of glycine, lysine, alanine, tyrosine—used as a drug in treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS); we have previously shown GA to be an AMP which synergises with tobramycin against CF P. aeruginosa, functioning via bacterial membrane disruption. Here, we demonstrate GA’s direct binding and sequestration/neutralisation of P. aeruginosa LPS, in keeping with GA’s ability to disrupt the outer membrane. At CF-relevant LPS concentrations, however, membrane disruption by GA was not strongly inhibited. Furthermore, exposure to GA did not result in increased Lipid A modification of LPS or in increased gene expression of systems involved in AMP sensing and LPS modification. Therefore, despite the electrostatic targeting of LPS by GA as part of its activity, P. aeruginosa does not demonstrate LPS modification in its defence.
A mosquito salivary protein-driven influx of myeloid cells facilitates flavivirus transmission
Authors: Wang Zhaoyang , Nie Kaixiao , Liang Yan , Niu Jichen , Yu Xi , Zhang Oujia , Liu Long , Shi Xiaolu , Wang Yibaina , Feng Xuechun , Zhu Yibin , Wang Penghua , Cheng Gong
Published: February 2024

Mosquitoes transmit many disease-relevant flaviviruses. Efficient viral transmission to mammalian hosts requires mosquito salivary factors. However, the specific salivary components facilitating viral transmission and their mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. Here, we show that a female mosquito salivary gland-specific protein, here named A. aegypti Neutrophil Recruitment Protein (AaNRP), facilitates the transmission of Zika and dengue viruses. AaNRP promotes a rapid influx of neutrophils, followed by virus-susceptible myeloid cells toward mosquito bite sites, which facilitates establishment of local infection and systemic dissemination. Mechanistically, AaNRP engages TLR1 and TLR4 of skin-resident macrophages and activates MyD88-dependent NF-κB signaling to induce the expression of neutrophil chemoattractants. Inhibition of MyD88-NF-κB signaling with the dietary phytochemical resveratrol reduces AaNRP-mediated enhancement of flavivirus transmission by mosquitoes. These findings exemplify how salivary components can aid viral transmission, and suggest a potential prophylactic target.
A novel pH-activated AIEgen probe for dynamic lysosome tracking and high-efficiency photodynamic therapy
Authors: Hu Yingcai , Yin Sheng-Yan , Deng Ting , Li Jishan
Published: February 2024

A pH-activated AIE molecular probe (N-3QL) was synthesized for the purpose of lysosome fluorescence tracking and PDT ablation of cancer cells.
Intrinsic edge states and strain-tunable spin textures in the Janus 1T-VTeCl monolayer
Authors: Chen Zheng , Hu Hongliang , Feng Dushuo , Guan Zhihao , Zhong Tingting , Wu Xiaoping , Song Changsheng
Published: February 2024

The Janus 1T-VTeCl monolayer unveils intrinsic edge states, a strain-induced topological phase transition, and versatile magnetic behaviors. Its potential applications include spintronic devices and information storage via strain engineering.
Effects of oxygen adsorption on the corrosion behavior of the Ti(0001) surface: a DFT investigation
Authors: Wang Xiaoting , Xie Dong , Liu Huaiyuan , Li Yantao , Jing Fengjuan , Leng Yongxiang
Published: February 2024

The interaction between O and α-Ti was studied by analyzing the adsorption energy, electronic structure and thermodynamic stability. The effect of adsorbed O on the Ti corrosion was explained from the perspective of electrochemical potential.
Discovery of non-sulfonamide carbonic anhydrase IX inhibitors through structure-based virtual screening
Authors: Cheng Tianheng , Wang Nihan , Wen Rui , Wang Shizun , Zhang Haoyu , Cheng Maosheng
Published: February 2024

We have developed a structure-based virtual screening approach to explore non-sulfonamide CA IX inhibitors exhibiting distinctive structures in the FDA database.
A DFT study of CO2 electroreduction catalyzed by hexagonal boron-nitride nanosheets with vacancy defects
Authors: Sredojević Dušan N. , Vukoje Ivana , Trpkov Đorđe , Brothers Edward N.
Published: February 2024

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) lattices with vacancy defects could enable effective CO2 electroreduction into valuable products: methanol and methane.
Cyclic ion mobility of doped [MAu24L18]2− superatoms and their fragments (M = Ni, Pd and Pt; L = alkynyl)
Authors: Hennrich Frank , Ito Shun , Weis Patrick , Neumaier Marco , Takano Shinjiro , Tsukuda Tatsuya , Kappes Manfred M.
Published: February 2024

High resolution ion mobility spectrometry was used to probe the structure and fragmentation of transition metal doped gold cluster superatoms stabilized by alkyne ligands.
ChemGymRL: A customizable interactive framework for reinforcement learning for digital chemistry
Authors: Beeler Chris , Subramanian Sriram Ganapathi , Sprague Kyle , Baula Mark , Chatti Nouha , Dawit Amanuel , Li Xinkai , Paquin Nicholas , Shahen Mitchell , Yang Zihan , Bellinger Colin , Crowley Mark , Tamblyn Isaac
Published: February 2024

Demonstration of a new open source Python library for simulating chemistry experiments as a gymnasium-API, reinforcement learning environment. Allowing learning policies for material design tasks or pipelines using a modular, extendable design.
Determination of collision mechanisms at low energies using four-vector correlations
Authors: Jambrina P. G. , Croft J. F. E. , Balakrishnan N. , Guo Hua , Aoiz F. J.
Published: February 2024

We report how the outcome of rotationally inelastic collisions between two D2 molecules can be controlled by changing the alignment of their internuclear axes under the same or different polarization vectors.
Principles and theories of green chemistry for corrosion science and engineering: design and application
Authors: Verma Chandrabhan , Chauhan Dheeraj Singh , Aslam Ruby , Banerjee Priyabrata , Aslam Jeenat , Quadri Taiwo W. , Zehra Saman , Verma Dakeshwar Kumar , Quraishi Mumtaz A. , Dubey Shikha , AlFantazi Akram , Rasheed Tahir
Published: February 2024

Given the high toxicity of inorganic inhibitors, organic substances, primarily heterocycles, have been proven to be one of the most efficient, cost-effective, and practical alternatives.
Construction of a BiVO4/VS-MoS2 S-scheme heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic nitrogen fixation
Authors: Luo Han-Ying , Liu Zhao-Lei , Zhang Meng-Ran , Mu Yan-Fei , Zhang Min
Published: February 2024

An S-scheme heterojunction (BiVO4/VS-MoS2) was prepared, successfully achieving N2 photofixation, yielding about 132.8 μmol g−1 h−1 of NH3 under simulated sunlight irradiation.
Halogen atom substitution effect on the carbazole fluorescence properties and supramolecular interactions in the solid-state
Authors: Ravi Sasikala , Karthikeyan Subramanian , Pannipara Mehboobali , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Moon Dohyun , Anthony Savarimuthu Philip
Published: February 2024

Dihalogen substituted carbazole displayed halogen bonding controlled supramolecular interactions and reduced fluorescence efficiency due to heavy atom effects.
Connectivity optimized nested line graph networks for crystal structures
Authors: Ruff Robin , Reiser Patrick , Stühmer Jan , Friederich Pascal
Published: February 2024

Graph neural networks (GNNs) have been applied to a large variety of applications in materials science and chemistry. We report a nested line-graph neural network achieving state-of-the-art performance in multiple benchmarks.
Chemoenzymatic β-specific methylene C(sp3)–H deuteration of carboxylic acids
Authors: Wang Xicheng , Sun Zhaohui , Li Tao , Perveen Saima , Li Pengfei
Published: February 2024

The combination of three types of catalysts in one pot, including borate, palladium, and lipase, enabled a one-pot β-specific methylene C(sp3)–H deuteration reaction of aliphatic acids using D2O.
Selective and sensitive non-enzymatic detection of glucose by Cu(ii)–Ni(ii)/SBA-15
Authors: M. P. Athira , R. Arun , Haridas Suja
Published: February 2024

Monitoring blood glucose levels in diabetic patients is vital, pressing the need for sensitive and affordable glucose sensors.
Correction: Recent advances in nano-fertilizers: synthesis, crop yield impact, and economic analysis
Authors: Channab Badr-Eddine , EL Idrissi Ayoub , Ammar Ayyoub , Dardari Othmane , Marrane Salah Eddine , el Gharrak Abdelouahed , Akil Adil , Essemlali Younes , Zahouily Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Correction for ‘Recent advances in nano-fertilizers: synthesis, crop yield impact, and economic analysis’ by Badr-Eddine Channab et al., Nanoscale, 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3nr05012b.
Characteristics of Lexical Stress in Hebrew-Speaking Children With Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Authors: Tubi Rachel , Ben-David Avivit , Segal Osnat
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of the present study was to explore the ability of Hebrew-speaking children with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) to produce lexical stress.

Method:

A total of 36 children aged between 4 and 7 years, 18 children with CAS, and 18 typically developing (TD) children participated in the study. All children completed language and speech assessments. The children imitated 20 weak–strong and strong–weak target words within short sentences and in isolation. Acoustic analysis of the vowels in the stressed and unstressed syllables of the target words and perceptual judgment of the words by six speech-language pathologists were conducted.

Results:

The acoustic analysis showed significant differences in duration, fundamental frequency, and amplitude between stressed and unstressed vowels in weak–strong and strong–weak words and in both groups of children. The total duration for both the stressed and weak syllables was longer in children with CAS compared to TD children. Rated on a Likert scale of 1–5, where 5 indicates correct production, the productions of lexical stress in the CAS group were judged as above 4 on average but were significantly worse compared to the TD group. The target productions of children with CAS were judged as including excessive, equal, or misplaced stress in 10.8% of the productions, whereas 5.8% of the target productions of the TD children were judged as having inappropriate stress.

Conclusions:

The present findings suggest that Hebrew-speaking children with CAS produce the acoustic characteristics of lexical stress similarly to their peers, and their productions are perceived as having relatively good lexical stress (above 4), although not as good as TD children.
Comparison of Vowel and Sentence Intelligibility in People With Dysarthria Secondary to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Krajewski Elizabeth , Lee Jimin , Olmstead Annie J. , Simmons Zachary
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

In this study, we examined the utility of vowel intelligibility testing for assessing the impact of dysarthria on speech characteristics in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We tested the sensitivity and specificity of overall vowel identification, as well as that of vowel-specific identification, to dysarthria presence and severity. We additionally examined the relationship between vowel intelligibility and sentence intelligibility.

Method:

Twenty-three people with ALS and 22 age- and sex-matched control speakers produced sentences from the Speech Intelligibility Test (SIT), as well as 10 American English monophthongs in /h/–vowel–/d/ words for the vowel intelligibility test (VIT). Data for SIT and VIT scores came from 135 listeners. Diagnostic accuracy of VIT measures was evaluated using the area under the curve of receiver operator characteristics. We then examined differences between control speakers, speakers with mild dysarthria, and speakers with severe dysarthria in their relationship between SIT and VIT scores.

Results:

The results suggest that the overall vowel intelligibility score showed high sensitivity and specificity in differentiating between speakers with and without dysarthria, even those with milder symptoms. In addition, single-vowel identification scores showed at least acceptable group differentiation between the mild and severe dysarthria groups, though fewer single vowels were acceptable discriminators between the control group and the group with mild dysarthria. Identification accuracy of /ɪ/ in particular showed excellent discrimination across all groups. Examination of the relationship between SIT and VIT scores suggests a severity-specific relationship. Speakers with SIT scores above 70% generally had higher SIT than VIT scores, whereas speakers with SIT below 70% generally had higher VIT than SIT scores.

Discussion:

Vowel intelligibility testing can detect speech impairments in speakers with mild dysarthria and residual articulatory function in speakers with severe dysarthria. Vowel intelligibility testing may, therefore, be a useful addition to intelligibility testing for individuals with dysarthria.
Improvement the estimation of reference evapotranspiration by combining different types of meteorological data Using machine learning models
Authors: Ba-ichou Ayoub , Zegoumou Abderrahim , Benhlima Said , Bekr My Ali
Published: February 2024

Irrigation and the strategic planning thereof play a pivotal role in diverse hydrological inquiries, with reference evapotranspiration (ETo) standing as a paramount variable within this domain. While the equation (FAO-56 PM)is extensively employed for (ETo)estimation, its dependence on numerous weather datas such as solar radiation, temperature, relative humidity, extraterrestrial radiation and wind speed, introduces inherent constraints, the remote computation necessitates a substantial array of sensors, thereby incurring considerable expenses. To surmount this challenge, artificial intelligence methodologies, encompassing various machine learning (ML) models, are harnessed for ETo estimation, requiring only minimal parameters.This investigation scrutinizes the effectiveness of alternative equations (Hargreaves-Samani, Romannenko, Jensen-Haise, ASCE_PM) vis-à-vis (ML) models such as Xgboost,Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Random Forest (RF) in the estimation of ETo across the Meknes region, utilizing diverse permutations of the four measured variables. The study employs an extensive array of hyperparameters in two distinct scenarios: (i) randomization of all data, and (ii) training on one station while validating on another. All methodologies employed in this study yield satisfactory outcomes when juxtaposed against empirical models reliant on minimal meteorological data.
Review of crop modelling approaches to address climate change challenges in Africa
Authors: Benaly Mohamed Amine , Brouziyne Youssef , Bouchaou Lhoussaine , Kharrou Mohamed Hakim , Chehbouni Abdelghani
Published: February 2024

Africa is facing an urgent need to increase food production to meet increasing demands. Targeted investments in integrated agriculture and, water management systems are required to meet this challenge. However, there is a lack of comprehensive information on the potential applications of climate-smart agriculture (CSA). This paper reviews current crop modeling technologies and their applications within the scope of climate change and the CSA framework in Africa. It evaluates current research trends in various crop simulation models and suggest advanced approaches to improve crop and environmental assessment, crop management, and decision-making. A total of 140 relevant papers were considered. Results showed that 84% of studies used process-based models, with Maize being the most studied crop. Additionally, DSSAT crop models and analysis of variance models have the highest contribution of physical and empirical crop modeling studies respectively. Over 72% of studies have contributed to adaptation strategies and reducing yield gaps, while only 8% of studies have been conducted on climate change mitigation and their trade-offs with adaptation using crop models under CSA. To ensure food security through sustainable agricultural practices in Africa, there is crucial to implement CSA models with a focus on the climate change mitigation component.
Analysis and management of risks related to TDG in Morocco using the FMEAC approach
Authors: Moussaoui Imane , El Bahi Younes Fakhradine , Lachheb Amine , Saadani Rachid , Rahmoune Miloud
Published: February 2024

Road transport of dangerous goods is the most accidental mode of transport, which can have an impact on the environment, including air pollution, global climate issues of concern, noise pollution, water pollution, accidents, land use and habitat fragmentation. The objective of this study is to manage the risks associated with Moroccan road transport from an environmental point of view while taking into account the collaborative aspect at the level of a logistics chain. In this regard, the use of a problem-solving approach such as FMECA to identify anomalies and malfunctions that may lead to failure. It consists in analysing the failure modes, their effects and their criticality. This approach is based on four main criteria: severity, frequency, non-detection and criticality.
Assessment of the effectiveness of methods for reducing soil salinization based on experimental data for Uzbekistan
Authors: Shirokova Yulia , Paluashova Gauharay , Kodirov Dilshod , Sadiev Farkhod
Published: February 2024

The article briefly analyzes foreign approaches to regulating the salt regime of soils and compares them with leaching methods used in Uzbekistan. Based on experimental data from the authors’ field studies, a comparison was made of the effectiveness of check leaching and alternative methods of soil desalinization for the conditions of Uzbekistan. The purpose of this study is to find a method for amelioration of saline soils with economical use of water, taking into account the scarcity of water resources. The materials can serve as a guide for choosing technology for regulating the salt regime of the kidney in various conditions and situations.
Effect of the feed additive ProVetin on the development of foals
Authors: Ivannikova Regina , Smirnova Ekaterina , Navruzshoeva Gulnora , Pavlova Anna , Kalinin Ivan
Published: February 2024

The article presents the results of the effect of the feed additive Protein containing bacteria strains Bacillus subtilis, Saccharomyces the dynamics of growth and cerevisiae, Trichoderma development of foals. As a result of the conducted studies, it was found that the feed additive has a positive effect on the body of foals whose mothers received ProVetin during foaling. The weight of foals of the experimental group at birth was 6.7% higher compared to the control group. Further introduction of a feed additive into the diet of foals in the postnatal period also had a beneficial effect, which contributed to higher growth rates – at the age of 3 months, the live weight of the experimental group of foals receiving daily feed additive was 6.3% greater than in the control group; at 6 months – 6.5% more.