bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isomerism Effect of 3D Dimeric Acceptors for Non‐Halogenated Solvent‐Processed Organic Solar Cells with 20 % Efficiency
Authors: Wang Jia , Wang Peiran , Chen Tianqi , Zhao Wenkai , Wang Jiaying , Lan Baofa , Feng Wanying , Liu Hang , Liu Yongsheng , Wan Xiangjian , Long Guankui , Kan Bin , Chen Yongsheng
Published: December 2024

Organic photovoltaic materials that can be processed via non‐halogenated solvents are crucial for the large‐area manufacturing of organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the limited available of electron acceptors with adequate solubility and favorable molecular packing presents a challenge in achieving efficient non‐halogenated solvent‐processed OSCs. Herein, inspired by the three‐dimensional dimeric acceptor CH8‐4, we employed a molecular isomerization strategy to synthesize its isomers, CH8‐4A and CH8‐4B, by tuning the position of fluorine (F) atom in the central unit. The differing intramolecular fluorine‐sulfur non‐covalent interactions among these isomers led to differences in molecular pre‐aggregation abilities (CH8‐4B<CH8‐4<CH8‐4A) in o‐xylene (o‐XY) solution, which significantly influence the film‐forming process and the resultant morphological characteristics. Among these, the blend film of CH8‐4, characterized by moderate molecular pre‐aggregation, achieved optimal bi‐continuous donor/acceptor phase separation. Consequently, the o‐xylene processed PM6 : CH8‐4 device achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.1 %, outperforming that of two other devices. By incorporating L8‐BO‐D as a guest acceptor, we attained an impressive PCE of 20.0 % for the CH8‐4‐based ternary device, alongside a high PCE nearing 16 % for the mini‐module (13.5 cm2). Our findings underscore the potential of isomerism in 3D dimer acceptors to enhance the performance of eco‐friendly OSCs.
In Silico Docking Studies, ADMET Properties, DNA Interaction, and Biological and in Vivo Anti‐Inflammatory Studies of Schiff Base Metal Complexes Derived From o‐Hydroxyacetophenone
Authors: Maddikayala Sravanthi , Bengi Kavitha , Malkhed Vasavi , Pulimamidi Saritha Reddy
Published: December 2024

[Fe(L)2Cl(H2O)] (1), [Co(L)2(H2O)2] (2), [Ni(L)2] (3), and [Cu(L)2] (4) complexes of Schiff base ligand (L), (Z)‐2‐(1‐((furan‐2‐ylmethyl)imino)ethyl)phenol were synthesized and characterized using Spectro analytical techniques. Studies on DNA binding revealed an intercalation binding mode with a significant binding potential that is supported by intrinsic (Kb) and stern‐volmer (Ksq) quenching constants. Nuclease activity was assessed using gel‐electrophoresis with CT–DNA. In silico drug binding studies were carried out using the AutoDock Vina, and drug interactions were visualized using the BIOVIA Discovery Studio Visualizer. Pharmacokinetic properties were evaluated using the Swiss ADMET online server tool. The title compounds were modelled using the Gaussian 09 software, optimizing bond lengths and angles. The theoretical data from in silico docking studies are experimentally correlated with in vivo carrageenan‐induced anti‐inflammatory screening, which demonstrated a higher rate of inhibition in paw edema for complex 4. Studies on HeLA and A549 cell lines for anticancer effect indicated a promising activity for complex 4. Antimicrobial assays against bacterial and fungal strains showcased greater activity levels of the complexes in comparison with its ligand.
Different orthology inference algorithms generate similar predicted orthogroups among Brassicaceae species
Authors: Liao Irene T. , Sears Karen E. , Hileman Lena C. , Nikolov Lachezar A.
Published: December 2024

Premise

Orthology inference is crucial for comparative genomics, and multiple algorithms have been developed to identify putative orthologs for downstream analyses. Despite the abundance of proposed solutions, including publicly available benchmarks, it is difficult to assess which tool is most suitable for plant species, which commonly have complex genomic histories.

Methods

We explored the performance of four orthology inference algorithms—OrthoFinder, SonicParanoid, Broccoli, and OrthNet—on eight Brassicaceae genomes in two groups: one group comprising only diploids and another set comprising the diploids, two mesopolyploids, and one recent hexaploid genome.

Results

The composition of the orthogroups reflected the species' ploidy and genomic histories, with the diploid set having a higher proportion of identical orthogroups. While the diploid + higher ploidy set had a lower proportion of orthogroups with identical compositions, the average degree of similarity between the orthogroups was not different from the diploid set.

Discussion

Three algorithms—OrthoFinder, SonicParanoid, and Broccoli—are helpful for initial orthology predictions. Results produced using OrthNet were generally outliers but could still provide detailed information about gene colinearity. With our Brassicaceae dataset, slight discrepancies were found across the orthology inference algorithms, necessitating additional analyses such as tree inference to fine‐tune results.
6‐aryloxy‐2‐aminopyrimidine‐benzonitrile hybrids as anti‐infective agents: Synthesis, bioevaluation, and molecular docking
Authors: Pranathi Abburi Naga , Devendra Nagineni , Bollikanda Rakesh K. , Bangalore Pavan K. , Esaulkova Iana L. , Mikhalsky Mikhail G. , Niukalova Maria A. , Zarubaev Vladimir V. , Sridhar Balasubramanian , Kantevari Srinivas
Published: December 2024

This report explores the potential of novel 6‐aryloxy‐2‐aminopyrimidine‐benzonitrile scaffolds as promising anti‐infective agents in the face of the increasing threat of infectious diseases. Starting from 2‐amino‐4,6‐dichloropyrimidine, a series of 24 compounds inspired from the antiviral drugs dapivirine, etravirine, and rilpivirine were designed and synthesized via a two‐step reaction sequence in good yields. Biological testing of synthetic analogs revealed potent inhibition against both viral and tuberculosis targets. Notably, compounds 5p (2,4‐dimethyl substitution; IC50 = 44 ± 4.9 µM; selectivity index [SI] = 20) and 5 s (3‐thiophenphenyl; IC50 = 6 ± 1 µM; SI = 120) showed significant antiviral activity against pandemic influenza virus A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (H1N1) with positive toxicity profiles and also exhibited good IC50 values (5p, IC50 = 10 ± 2 µM; SI = 9 and 5 s, IC50 = 16 ± 2 µM; SI = 60) against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) (Wuhan strain) compared with favipiravir. In addition, analogs 5a, 5r, 5t, and 5u showed good antitubercular activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv strain and compounds 3, 5f, 5n, and 5q showed moderate antibacterial activity against gram+ve and gram‐ve bacterial strains, suggesting that this scaffold has a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects.
Distinct Pathophysiologic Pathways Support Stratification of Sjögren's Disease Based on Symptoms, Clinical, and Routine Biological Data
Authors: Nguyen Yann , Beydon Maxime , Gottenberg Jacques‐Eric , Morel Jacques , Perdriger Aleth , Dernis Emmanuelle , Cornec Divi , Devauchelle‐Pensec Valérie , Sène Damien , Dieudé Philippe , Couderc Marion , Fauchais Anne‐Laure , Larroche Claire , Vittecoq Olivier , Salliot Carine , Hachulla Eric , Le Guern Véronique , Mariette Xavier , Seror Raphaèle , Nocturne Gaëtane
Published: December 2024

Objective

Recently, three distinct phenotypes of patients with Sjögren disease (SjD) have been described based on cluster analysis: B cell active with low symptoms (BALS), high systemic activity (HSA), and low systemic activity with high symptoms (LSAHS). We aimed to assess whether these clusters were associated with distinct biomarkers and the prognostic value of interferon (IFN) signature.

Methods

The Assessment of Systemic Signs and Evolution in Sjögren's Syndrome cohort is a 20‐year prospective cohort of patients with SjD. The following biomarkers were compared: IFN‐α2, IFN‐γ, CXCL10, CXCL13, BAFF, interleukin (IL)‐7, fms‐like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand, CCL19, and tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNF‐RII). IFN signature was assessed using transcriptomic analysis. We then compared systemic and symptomatic evolution, and the risk of new immunosuppressant prescription and of lymphoma, according to the IFN signature across the three clusters.

Results

A total of 395 patients (94% female, median age 53 [interquartile range 43–63] years) were included. Higher levels of CXCL13, IL‐7, and TNF‐RII were found in the BALS and HSA clusters compared with the LSAHS cluster. A high IFN signature was mainly found in the BALS cluster (57%, vs 48% and 38% in the HSA and LSAHS clusters, respectively). This IFN signature was mainly driven by type I IFN, with higher levels of IFN‐α2. In the BALS cluster, a high IFN signature was associated with a higher risk of new immunosuppressant treatment (hazard ratio 9.38; 95% confidence interval 1.22–72.16). All lymphoma occurred in patients with high IFN signature.

Conclusion

The three SjD clusters displayed distinct expressions of IFN signature and markers of T and B cell activation, confirming distinct pathophysiologic mechanisms. High IFN signature could predict systemic evolution in the BALS cluster.
Comparative performance of Fe‐MOx/SiO2 (M = V, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Mo) and FeOx/SiO2 catalysts in reductive liquefaction of switchgrass in ethanol
Authors: Amarasekara Ananda S. , Morales Gabriel Murillo , Kommalapati Raghava R.
Published: December 2024

The catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass under a hydrogen atmosphere is a promising technology to produce stable biocrude oil as a sustainable alternative to petroleum crude. A series of iron‐based non‐noble mix metal‐oxide‐on‐silica catalysts were evaluated to mimic the natural transformation that may have led to the conversion of terrestrial biomass to fossilized fuels. Switchgrass powder was liquefied to a stable bio‐oil with a 71.2% yield by using FeOx/SiO2 catalyst in ethanol under a 5.5 MPa hydrogen atmosphere at 210 °C. The use of Fe‐MOx/SiO2 (M = V, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu and Mo) type bimetallic oxide catalysts instead of FeOx/SiO2 can produce improvements in liquefaction yields by using Mn, Co, Ni, and Cu as the second metal. The highest liquefaction yield of 78.8% was observed with the Fe‐CuOx/SiO2 catalyst. Liquefaction oils were formed that were composed of complex mixtures of C6‐C12 alcohols, esters, aldehydes, and phenols. The lignin products:holocellulose products ratio changed in the range 0.35 to 0.15 and the composition of oils changed significantly with the use of mixed metal oxides in place of single metal FeOx/SiO2 The most effective catalyst, Fe‐CuOx/SiO2 could be reused in five cycles with a small loss in liquefaction yield from 78.8% to 70.0% after four reuse cycles and after regeneration of the catalyst at 500 °C for 3 h in air.
Neuropeptides: The Evergreen Jack‐of‐All‐Trades in Neuronal Circuit Development and Regulation
Authors: Hevesi Zsofia , Hökfelt Tomas , Harkany Tibor
Published: December 2024

Neuropeptides are key modulators of adult neurocircuits, balancing their sensitivity to both excitation and inhibition, and fine‐tuning fast neurotransmitter action under physiological conditions. Here, we reason that transient increases in neuropeptide availability and action exist during brain development for synapse maturation, selection, and maintenance. We discuss fundamental concepts of neuropeptide signaling at G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), with a particular focus on how signaling at neuropeptide GPCRs could underpin neuronal morphogenesis. We use galanin, a 29/30 amino acid‐long neuropeptide, as an example for its retrograde release from the dendrites of thalamic neurons to impact the selection and wiring of sensory afferents originating at the trigeminal nucleus through galanin receptor 1 (GalR1) engagement. Thus, we suggest novel roles for neuropeptides, expressed transiently or permanently during both pre‐ and postnatal neuronal circuit development, with potentially life‐long effects on circuit layout and ensuing behavioral operations.
Interaction Between Autophagy and the Inflammasome in Human Tumors: Implications for the Treatment of Human Cancers
Authors: Xia Qing , Zhang Jingzhou
Published: December 2024

Autophagy is a physiologically regulated cellular process orchestrated by autophagy‐related genes (ATGs) that, depending on the tumor type and stage, can either promote or suppress tumor growth and progression. It can also modulate cancer stem cell maintenance and immune responses. Therefore, targeted manipulation of autophagy may inhibit tumor development by overcoming tumor‐promoting mechanisms. The inflammasome is another multifunctional bioprocess that induces a form of pro‐inflammatory programmed cell death, called pyroptosis. Dysregulation or overactivation of the inflammasome has been implicated in tumor pathogenesis and development. Additionally, autophagy can inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome by removing inflammatory drivers. Recent research suggests that the NLRP3 inflammasome, in turn, affects autophagy. Understanding the complex interplay between autophagy and inflammasomes could lead to more precise and effective strategies for cancer treatments. In this review, we summarize the impact of autophagy and inflammasome dysregulation on tumor progression or suppression. We then highlight their targeting for cancer treatment as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies. Furthermore, we discuss the interaction between autophagy and tumor‐promoting inflammation or the NLRP3 inflammasome. Finally, based on recent findings, we review the potential of this interaction for cancer treatment.
Endovascular Treatment of Malfunctioning Dialysis Fistulas: A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis Comparing Transradial and Conventional Transvenous Access
Authors: Minici Roberto , Venturini Massimo , Fontana Federico , Guzzardi Giuseppe , Torre Federico , Spinetta Marco , Coppola Andrea , Piacentino Filippo , Guerriero Pasquale , De Rosi Nicola , Apollonio Biagio , Franchin Marco , Giurazza Francesco ,   MGJR Research Team, Brunese Luca , Laganà Domenico
Published: December 2024

Background

Venous outflow is the favored access for endovascular management of dialysis fistulas. However, transradial access (TRA) offers advantages in specific clinical scenarios. The study aims to compare the efficacy, feasibility, and safety of TRA and transvenous access (TVA) in the endovascular management of malfunctioning dialysis fistulas, addressing the existing gap in comprehensive literature.

Methods

A retrospective multi‐center analysis included prospectively collected data (January 2021–November 2023) from patients undergoing endovascular management of malfunctioning dialysis fistulas with TRA. Control groups comprised patients with TVA.

Results

Of 206 patients, 62 underwent TRA, and 144 underwent TVA. Baseline demographics showed a well‐matched distribution. TRA exhibited longer cannulation times but similar procedural and fluoroscopy times. Technical success rates were high for both TRA (98.4%) and TVA (97.2%). Clinical success rates were comparable (96.8% vs. 95.8%). Postprocedure access flow rates and complications demonstrated no significant differences.

Conclusions

This study provides the first direct comparison of TRA and TVA in malfunctioning dialytic fistulas. While venous outflow remains the standard vascular access site for managing malfunctioning dialysis fistulas, TRA shows comparable efficacy, safety, and feasibility, making it a viable alternative in specific clinical contexts. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to determine the long‐term durability of TRA.
Closure of a Late‐Onset Iatrogenic Left Ventricular Pseudoaneurysm Caused by Erosion of an Apical Muscular VSD Device
Authors: Haddad Raymond N. , Bou Houssein Haytham , Adel Hassan Ahmed , Kasem Mohamed
Published: December 2024

We report the case of a 3‐year‐old asymptomatic girl (12 kg, 96 cm) who was diagnosed with a large iatrogenic left ventricular pseudoaneurysm (LVP) on follow‐up ultrasound, 14 months after apical muscular ventricular septal defect (VSD) closure with a 10 mm Amplatzer Muscular VSD occluder (Abbott, USA) due to device erosion. The LVP was successfully occluded using detachable Penumbra coils, with complete thrombo‐exclusion confirmed at 12‐month follow‐up.
Electrochemical Conversion of N‐Sulfinylamines to Sulfonimidoyl Fluorides
Authors: Gao Fang‐Ling , He Xinglei , Zhao Bin , Lin Yuqi , Ye Ke‐Yin
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The invention of novel linkers is a long‐lasting task in the area of the sulfur(VI) fluoride exchange reaction (SuFEx). Compared with the most frequently investigated sulfonyl fluorides, synthetic accessibility toward its mono‐aza isostere, i.e., sulfonimidoyl fluorides is still limited. Herein, we report an electrochemical carbonfluorination of the readily available N‐sulfinylamines to access various aryl and alkyl sulfonimidoyl fluorides. The transformation is characterized by the ready availability of starting materials, mild reaction conditions, and obviating metal catalysts and chemical oxidants.
Efficacy of Combined Encorafenib and Binimetinib Treatment for Erdheim–Chester Disease Harboring Concurrent BRAFV600E and KRASG12R Mutations: A Case Report
Authors: Hibino Yuto , Sakai Rika , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Takeda Takaaki , Hirose Natsuki , Tokunaga Mayumi , Washimi Kota , Yokose Tomoyuki , Kasajima Rika , Hiroshima Yukihiko , Miyagi Yohei , Nakajima Hideaki
Published: December 2024

Background

Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a rare form of non‐Langerhans cell histiocytosis with diverse clinical manifestations, often associated with mutations in the mitogen‐activated protein kinase/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) pathway. BRAF and KRAS mutations, which are driver mutations of oncogenes, participate in the same signaling pathway (MAPK/ERK pathway) and are usually mutually exclusive. We report a case of ECD with concurrent BRAFV600E and KRASG12R mutations treated using BRAF and MEK inhibitors.

Case

A 70‐year‐old man was referred to our hospital with a mesenteric nodal lesion on computed tomography scan. The patient experienced symptoms consistent with ECD, including central diabetes insipidus. Biopsy revealed histiocytes positive for CD68 and CD163, negative for S100, CD1a, and CD21. Liquid‐based comprehensive genomic profiling and tissue‐based cancer gene panel test identified BRAFV600E and KRASG12R mutations with different variant allele fraction. Additional immunohistochemistry with an antibody specific to mutant BRAFV600E protein stained some proliferating histiocytes, consistent with ECD. Based on the genomic profiling results, we hypothesized that there was a coexistence of a clone harboring BRAFV600E and another clone harboring KRASG12R, and planned a combination therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors targeting each clone, respectively. The patient received oral encorafenib at 100 mg once daily and oral binimetinib at 15 mg twice daily. The combination therapy resulted in rapid resolution of symptoms and significant improvement in imaging findings.

Conclusion

This case represents a unique presentation of ECD with concurrent BRAFV600E and KRASG12R mutations. Combination therapy with encorafenib and binimetinib targeting each clone resulted in a remarkable therapeutic effect and was well‐tolerated. This is the first reported case of ECD treated with encorafenib and binimetinib. The combination therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors is one of the rational treatment options for cases of ECD with a suspicion of multiple clones.
Deep Eutectic Solvents as Electrolytes for Zn Batteries: Between Blocked Crystallization, Electrochemical Performance and Corrosion Issues
Authors: Gregorio Victor , Baur Christian , Jankowski Piotr , Chang Jin Hyun
Published: December 2024

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are an emerging class of ionic liquids with high tunability and promise for battery applications. In this study, we investigated acetamide‐based DESs for Zn batteries, focusing on a synergistic mixture of two known acetamide (Ace)‐based DESs:
and
. By combining these two DESs in various ratios, we aimed to enhance ionic conductivity and optimize electrochemical performance while addressing corrosion concerns. The resulting ternary mixtures exhibit superior ionic mobility, with the highest conductivity observed for
, which balances performance and stability. However, increased ionic mobility introduces crystallization challenges, limiting liquid‐phase stability. Despite these challenges, the optimized DES mixture demonstrates excellent cycling performance with reduced overpotentials and acceptable corrosion levels, offering a viable pathway for scalable Zn battery applications.
Early Warning Signs for Eating Disorders in Children: A Realist Synthesis of Websites Summarizing Caregiver and Consumer Perspectives
Authors: Pennesi Jamie‐Lee , Jabs Maya , Baillie Simone , Hart Laura , Hay Phillipa , Mitchison Deborah , Norton Lyza , Prnjak Katarina , Wade Tracey D.
Published: December 2024

Objective

A larger number of younger children are being diagnosed with an eating disorder (ED), with parents typically reporting a delay between early warning signs (EWS) and seeking help. The aim of the current investigation was to identify the common EWS for EDs in children noticed by caregivers and consumers as reported on websites to inform earlier detection and intervention.

Method

A realist synthesis of websites summarizing caregiver and consumer perspectives on the EWS for EDs in children was conducted by searching Google, Bing, and Yahoo! for all years covered through 24 October 2023.

Results

The initial search identified 140 websites, of which 62 met criteria for eligibility (93.5% summarized content targeted at caregivers, 6.5% included direct perspectives). Six categories and 24 sub‐categories of EWS were identified across 214 individual EWS. The most common EWS, mentioned in at least 40% of websites, were: excessive or compulsive exercise, any weight loss, obsession or preoccupation with food or food preparation, and cutting out major food groups.

Discussion

This web synthesis identified the EWS of developing EDs in children most reported by caregivers and consumers; however, many of the websites contained subjective interpretations of people's experiences which were unverified and may capture potential bias. Future prospective research is required to verify caregiver and consumer experiences and to explore whether these EWS are predictive of ED onset. These results can then inform early detection strategies for EDs and may assist caregivers in recognizing when clinical assessment for an ED is required.
Function over form: The benefits of aspen as surrogate brood‐rearing habitat for greater sage‐grouse
Authors: Kohl Michel T. , Sandford Charles P. , Rogers Paul C. , Chi Renee , Messmer Terry A. , Dahlgren David K.
Published: December 2024

Species of conservation concern are often habitat specialists, posing significant risk to those species when specific plant communities are threatened. As a result, practitioners habitually focus conservation efforts on these communities while ignoring ecological mechanisms that explain the wildlife–plant relationships. In doing so, practitioners may overlook alternative vegetation communities that could maintain wildlife populations under alternative conditions (e.g., climate change). Here, we term these areas surrogate habitat, defined as vegetation communities or resource sites that provide similar critical resources as conventional sites, and assess their potential for conservation using a case study of greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) on Parker Mountain, Utah (1998–2009). Sage‐grouse are a sagebrush‐obligate species and a species of conservation concern. Range‐wide conservation efforts have long emphasized management of seasonal habitats within semiarid sagebrush ecosystems, specifically management of mesic or wet meadow sites that provide brood‐rearing habitat required for population persistence. Despite this requirement, no conventional mesic habitat exists on Parker Mountain, yet it supports one of Utah's largest sage‐grouse populations. Rather, the Parker sagebrush system abuts quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) stands that may provide brood‐rearing habitat analogous to wet meadow sites. It is unclear, however, to what extent sage‐grouse use these aspen stands because sage‐grouse commonly avoid tall structures (e.g., trees) and their associated avian predators. Thus, we tested whether (1) sage‐grouse selected for surrogate habitat (i.e., aspen edge) and (2) selection behaviors related to surrogate habitat had demographic effects on the population. As we predicted, sage‐grouse selected for these areas, and the sage‐grouse that spent increased time closer to aspen edges did not experience increased mortality. Together, this demonstrates that the aspen–sagebrush edge provided a surrogate for the wet meadows used by other populations. More broadly, this suggests that conservation practitioners should move beyond simplistic wildlife–habitat associations toward a more holistic view of animal ecology focused on the wildlife–resource association, an approach that becomes particularly useful in areas where conventional obligate habitat may be degraded or lost. This work also implores us to examine alternative habitat potential rather than applying one‐size‐fits‐all models to threatened species conservation.
Natural and anthropogenic noise shape bat activity and sonar behavior
Authors: Vosbigian Ryan , Wardle Ryan , Rempel Hannah S. , Brauer Ellie , Huggins Michael , West Samantha , Willems Joshua S. , Francis Clinton D.
Published: December 2024

As human development has expanded, so has the prevalence of anthropogenic noise, which can interfere with acoustic channels used by wildlife. However, since landscapes contain natural sources of persistent noise from features such as rivers, animals may be preadapted to cope with novel human‐generated noise. Comparing how animals respond to anthropogenic and natural noise with similar properties can provide insight into how and why animals may respond to increasing noise pollution. Here, we studied whether Mexican free‐tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) alter activity and call features in response to playback of traffic and river noise relative to ambient acoustics. We observed higher call activity during ambient and traffic playback compared with river playback conditions. These findings suggest that T. brasiliensis may select areas based on acoustic properties and not by associating river sounds with more favorable habitat. We also observed that T. brasiliensis modified call duration and frequency in response to river playbacks in a manner consistent with a behavioral switch from foraging to navigating. Overall, we found evidence that temporal patterning of noise may strongly influence bat activity and that signaling in noise may involve trade‐offs among call features.
A Review on Recent Developments in Transition Metal and Heteroatom‐Doped Carbon Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Jannath Khatun A. , Saputra Heru Agung
Published: December 2024

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is key in many green energy conversion devices like fuel cells and metal‐air batteries. Developing cheap and robust electrocatalysts is crucial to expedite the slow ORR kinetics at the cathode. Lately, transition metal (TM) and heteroatom‐doped carbon catalysts have surfaced as promising cathode materials for ORR as they display admirable electrocatalytic activity and distinguished properties like tunable morphology, structure, composition and porosity. This review summarizes the recent breakthrough in TM (Fe, Co, Mn and Ni) and heteroatoms (N, S, B, P and F) doping in carbon materials. Moreover, their ORR activity and active sites are inspected for future augmentation in making ORR catalysts for electrochemical devices. The existing challenges and prospects in this field are ratiocinated in conclusion.
Epileptiform discharges in the context of self‐limited pediatric focal epilepsy (EDSelFEC) in pediatric hemispherotomy patients: Role of white matter abnormalities
Authors: Tarta‐Arsene Oana , Winkler Peter , Pieper Tom , Hartlieb Till , Zsoter Andrea , Stan Irina , Kudernatsch Manfred , Berweck Steffen , Holthausen Hans
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the frequency of epileptiform discharges associated with self‐limited focal epilepsy (EDSelFEC) in children who have undergone a hemispherotomy and to evaluate whether patients with coexistence of EDSelFEC and structural hemispheric epilepsies differ from patients without coexistence of EDSelFEC and whether there are differences between the two groups with regard to preoperative management and postoperative outcome.

Methods

Data on 131 children who underwent a hemispherotomy between January 1999 and January 2015 were retrieved from the Epilepsy center's epilepsy surgery database. Children with EDSelFEC were compared with children without EDSelFEC with respect to epileptogenic hemispheric pathology, family history, age at epilepsy onset, timing of surgery, lesion laterality, preoperative cognitive function, response to sodium channel blocker antiepileptic medication, and surgical outcome. Parental consent was obtained.

Results

EDSelFECs were present in the EEG in 27 (21%) of the 131 cases. None of the patients had seizures associated with EDSelFECs. The percentages of EDSelFECs varied between pathology groups: vascular lesions: 38%, focal cortical dysplasia: 16%, polymicrogyria: 5%, Rasmussen encephalitis: 10%, hemimegalencephaly: 8%, mild malformation of cortical development with oligodendroglial hyperplasia:20%, other pathologies: 22%. EDSelFEC in the vascular group were significantly correlated with MRI changes showing white matter damage in addition to cortical damage (p =.02). 82.1% of EDSelFEC were located multifocal versus 4.8% multifocality in EDs other than EDSelFEC. EDSelFEC were significantly more often exacerbated by sodium channel blockers than EDs caused by structural (cortical) lesions. No differences were found between EDSelFEC+ and EDSelFEC− patients with respect to other variables studied.

Significance

A significant number of children with hemispheric epileptogenic lesions, particularly children with pre‐/perinatal vascular lesions, hemiplegia, and white matter lesions in addition to cortical lesions, presented with coexisting EDSelFEC.
Experimental Investigations of Sediment Erosion in Francis Turbine Using Non‐Recirculating Sediment Test Rig
Authors: Poudel Ravi , Chitrakar Sailesh , Qian Zhongdong , Thapa Bhola
Published: December 2024

Water‐suspended sediments wear down hydro turbine components by erosion, reducing their lifetime. Nonetheless, even heavily sediment‐loaded rivers are a valuable renewable and clean energy resource. Forecasting sediment erosion and optimizing the hydraulic turbine design for extended durability by numerical flow simulations became imperative to operate the hydropower plant safely and economically in sediment‐laden environments. This strategy is challenged by the unknown model parameters, that is, the lack of reliable validation data. Therefore, in this study, a 2 kW Francis‐type model turbine is tested in a non‐recirculating sediment‐laden test facility. The Francis turbine runner and the guide vanes are coated with four different colors to visualize locations of surface degradation qualitatively due to erosion during operation in representative sediment concentrations. The turbine is tested at two different operating conditions OP1 and OP2 for visualizing the locations of erosion. For operating condition OP1, with low rotational speed, erosion is primarily observed at the leading and trailing edge of the suction and pressure side, respectively. The Francis turbine runner is particularly eroded in the transition between the hub and the blades on the suction side towards the trailing edge. Meanwhile, for operating condition OP2, with higher rotational speed, the trailing edge of the pressure side of the blade and the region of the shroud close to the trailing edge of the blades are found to be vulnerable to erosion. Test for the material erosion of the runner is conducted at OP3 conditions with high sediment concentration over 45 h, reporting the weight loss in intervals of 15 h. It is observed that the cumulative erosion rate of the Francis runner made of brass material is 0.016 mg g−1 h−1 after 45 h of operation. Similarly, the percentage loss of the runner with respect to the hours of operation is calculated to be 0.0065%, 0.04%, and 0.07% for 15, 30, and 45 h of operation, respectively. This data set can also be useful for qualitative and quantitative validation of computational fluid dynamic simulations for erosion prediction.
A Climate Simulation Dataset From 11 Overriding Experiments for Analysing Cloud and Air–Sea Feedbacks
Authors: Guo Xiao , Feng Biao , Zhao Zhiying , Ma Jian
Published: December 2024

Under global warming, cloud change and its radiative feedback have often been considered to evolve from thermodynamic processes; however, cloud feedback may also force sea surface temperature to trigger such air–sea interactions. Due to complex cloud physics in air–sea coupling, this contributes to the surface warming pattern formation with significant uncertainty. Here we develop a novel overriding technique for climate projections that substitutes specific variables in control runs to isolate such feedback mechanisms, decoupling thermodynamic, dynamical and radiative responses of the surface ocean to the atmosphere. We apply this to the Community Earth System Model version 2 (CESM2) and perform a series of 150‐year simulations with 1% CO2 increase per year (1pctCO2). In real time, the key variables under 1pctCO2 are replaced with those from the current climate, such as downwelling shortwave radiation, wind speed in latent and sensible heat and wind stress. These experiments provide monthly output of global distributions including surface temperatures, winds and precipitation, with a spatial resolution of 1.9° × 2.5° in latitude and longitude and 32 levels for the atmosphere and of ~1° and 60 layers designated as gx1v7 for the ocean. This open access dataset for partial air–sea coupling under climate change can help understand the tropical and polar warming patterns and quantify the relative contributions of forcing and triggering mechanisms.
Assessment of Hydrologic Data Estimates From ERA5 Reanalyses in Benin, West Africa
Authors: Bodjrènou René , Sintondji Luc Ollivier , N'Tcha Yekambessoun M' Po , Germain Diane , Azonwade Francis Esse , Sohindji Fernand , Hounnou Gilbert , Amouzouvi Edid , Kpognin Arthur Freud Segnon , Comandan Françoise
Published: December 2024

In West Africa, the validation of distributed models is limited by the quality and availability of point station data measured in situ. ERA5 is a climate reanalysis product produced by the European Centre for Medium‐range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and is suggested to overcome this constraint. This study assessed and compared the quality of ERA5 and its variant ERA5‐Land (namely, LAND) over Benin at spatial and monthly time scales. ERA5 relies on a single‐level version with a 0.25° × 0.25° resolution, while LAND is a land surface version with a 0.1° × 0.1° resolution. Four variables were collected, namely, surface runoff (SRO), evapotranspiration (PET), water table depth (WTD) and soil water content (SWC). Single nearest pixel (SNP) and inverse distance weighting (IDW) selection methods were used to compare the reanalyse data to point station data based on the correlation (c), mean absolute error (MAE) and relative mean absolute error (RMAE). With the SNP method, both reanalyses showed a best peak simulation in mean SRO. Their performance in terms of correlation ranged from 0.26 to 0.65 for ERA5 vs. 0.34 to 0.60 for LAND. The reanalyses showed high correlations (generally > 0.80) for SWC and for the PET (sometime greater than 0.90). The correlations were below 0.5 in both reanalyses for the WTD, with slight overestimations (4.73 m for ERA5 vs. 3.13 m for LAND). Similar results were reported with the IDW selection method. One or the other of the two reanalyses can be recommended for model calibration/validation, but care must be taken in the choice because the one chosen may be better in terms of correlation even though it has significant biases and vice versa. Correcting the variables of these reanalysis datasets could also improve their performance.
Advancing Thalamic Nuclei Segmentation: The Impact of Compressed Sensing on MRI Processing
Authors: Hübner Sebastian , Tambalo Stefano , Novello Lisa , Hilbert Tom , Kober Tobias , Jovicich Jorge
Published: December 2024

The thalamus is a collection of gray matter nuclei that play a crucial role in sensorimotor processing and modulation of cortical activity. Characterizing thalamic nuclei non‐invasively with structural MRI is particularly relevant for patient populations with Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, dementia, and schizophrenia. However, severe head motion in these populations poses a significant challenge for in vivo mapping of thalamic nuclei. Recent advancements have leveraged the compressed sensing (CS) framework to accelerate structural MRI acquisition times in MPRAGE sequence variants, while fast segmentation tools like FastSurfer have reduced processing times in neuroimaging research. In this study, we evaluated thalamic nuclei segmentations derived from six different MPRAGE variants with varying degrees of CS acceleration (from about 9 to about 1‐min acquisitions). Thalamic segmentations were initialized from either FastSurfer or FreeSurfer, and the robustness of the thalamic nuclei segmentation tool to different initialization inputs was evaluated. Our findings show minimal sequence effects with no systematic bias, and low volume variability across sequences for the whole thalamus and major thalamic nuclei. Notably, CS‐accelerated sequences produced less variable volumes compared to non‐CS sequences. Additionally, segmentations of thalamic nuclei initialized from FastSurfer and FreeSurfer were highly comparable. We provide the first evidence supporting that a good segmentation quality of thalamic nuclei with CS T1‐weighted image acceleration in a clinical 3T MRI system is possible. Our findings encourage future applications of fast T1‐weighted MRI to study deep gray matter. CS‐accelerated sequences and rapid segmentation methods are promising tools for future studies aiming to characterize thalamic nuclei in vivo at 3T in both healthy individuals and clinical populations.
Silencing Quiet Quitting: Crafting a Symphony of High‐Performance Work Systems and Psychological Conditions
Authors: Agarwal Promila , Kaur Prabhjot , Budhwar Pawan
Published: December 2024

A key question in the literature is how human resource management (HRM) practices influence quiet quitting (QQ), emphasizing the need for a more nuanced theoretical framework to explain its antecedents. This research applies the conservation of resources (COR) theory to delve into how high‐performance work systems (HPWSs) influence QQ through psychological conditions (i.e., psychological meaningfulness and availability). Based on a sample of 422 participants, the study reveals that HPWSs, psychological meaningfulness, and psychological availability each have a negative relationship with QQ. In addition, psychological meaningfulness and availability serve as mediating pathways through which HPWSs can mitigate QQ. The findings pave the way for further research on effective interventions and management practices that can create more fulfilling and productive work environments.
Stability Analysis of Gravity‐Modulated Thermohaline Convection in Viscoelastic Fluid Saturating Porous Medium
Authors: Dhiman Joginder Singh , Gupta Khushboo , Sharma Praveen Kumar
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the modified stability analysis of thermohaline convection in a horizontal Oldroyd‐B fluid using the Darcy model, with applications in geophysics, environmental engineering, material science, and biological systems. The basic equations of motion and heat conduction in the present model are based on the Darcy model and the modified Boussinesq approximation. The perturbation equations are derived using the power series perturbation method to study two‐dimensional convective roll instability with finite amplitude disturbances. Linear stability analysis, as a first‐order stability problem, provides expressions for the Rayleigh numbers for stationary and oscillatory convection. The influence of various parameters, including the Darcy–Prandtl number, solutal Rayleigh number, stress and strain retardation parameters, and variations in the coefficient of specific heat, on the stability of the considered system, is studied numerically. It is observed that an approximate 67% increase in the coefficient of specific heat variations and a 23% increase in the solutal Rayleigh number result on average increases of 80% and 8%, respectively, in the value of the oscillatory Darcy–Rayleigh number. Conversely, an average 42% increase in the Darcy–Prandtl number leads to an average decrease of 8% in the oscillatory Darcy–Rayleigh number. In the weakly nonlinear oscillatory analysis, second‐ and third‐order stability problems are discussed, and the Landau equation is derived, which describes the amplitudes of the convection cells. The effects of the parameters on heat and mass transfer rates, as described by the Nusselt and Sherwood numbers, are studied numerically. Furthermore, the weakly nonlinear stability analysis evaluates the effects of the Darcy–Prandtl number, specific heat coefficient, stress relaxation time, salinity Rayleigh number, strain retardation time, diffusivity ratio, and gravity modulation characteristics on heat and mass transfer rates. The effects of amplitude and frequency of gravity modulation on heat and mass transport are analyzed and depicted graphically. The study establishes that heat and mass transport can be effectively controlled by a mechanism external to the system. The results are validated by comparison with previous work, which considered a special case without the velocity gradient term in the momentum equation.
Hydrological Modelling Using Gridded and Ground‐Based Precipitation Datasets in Data‐Scarce Mountainous Regions
Authors: Khatakho Rajesh , Firoz Aaron , Elagib Nadir Ahmed , Fink Manfred
Published: December 2024

Satellite‐ and gridded ground‐based precipitation data are crucial for understanding hydrological processes. However, the performance of these products needs rigorous evaluation before their integration into hydrological models. This study evaluates two types of precipitation products based on their hydrological simulation performance. The evaluation focuses on ground‐based precipitation datasets (GA and Aphrodite) and satellite‐based precipitation products (SPPs). The GA dataset combines rain gauge measurements with the Asian Precipitation—Highly‐Resolved Observational Data Integration Towards Evaluation (Aphrodite) dataset to fill gaps in areas with insufficient rain gauge coverage. It is also used for model calibration under Method I. In Method II, models are calibrated with Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), Climate Hazards Group Infrared Precipitation (CHIRPS), Multi‐Source Weighted‐Ensemble Precipitation (MSWEP) and Aphrodite product without the station data. The study considers the Koshi River Basin located in the eastern Himalayas encompassing Nepal and China's Tibetan region. The basin supports downstream ecosystems and domestic, hydro‐power and irrigation development. Based on ranking of seven performance metrics, CHIRPS emerged as the best performing SPP whereas MSWEP ranked the lowest. When the five precipitation datasets were evaluated, GA performed the best, followed by CHIRPS, TRMM, MSWEP and Aphrodite respectively. In Method I, TRMM achieved the highest Nash−Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) value of 0.68, and MSWEP showed poor performance with an NSE value of −0.20. In Method II, CHIRPS showed the strongest performance with an NSE values of 0.82, whereas MSWEP performed slightly lower but still achieved an NSE value of 0.74. Seasonal analysis provided further valuable insights into selecting and blending precipitation datasets by identifying time series that performed best in specific seasons. These findings, alongside model uncertainty analyses, emphasise the influence of precipitation biases and underscore the value of integrating ground‐based and satellite data. Ultimately, this study contributes to advancing water resource planning and management strategies in the Koshi River Basin and similar mountainous regions.
The Impacts of Evaporites on the Hydrogeochemical Processes of Brackish Groundwater in the Huangshui River Basin, Northwest China
Authors: Zheng Haofan , Mao Xumei , Peng Hongming , Cai Wen , Yuan Youjing , Zha Xixi , Zhao Zhen , Liu Jiamin
Published: December 2024

The Huangshui River is a major tributary of the upper Yellow River. Understanding the hydrogeochemical processes involved in the formation of brackish groundwater in the Huangshui River Basin is essential for the rational development and utilisation of water resources, as well as for the protection of water resources and aquatic ecosystems. The chemical composition of brackish groundwater can reveal the hydrogeochemical processes it has undergone, while isotopic tracing can indicate the sources and processes of groundwater formation. This study employs hydrochemical and isotopic analyses to elucidate the contribution of groundwater–rock interactions to the formation of brackish groundwater in the Huangshui River Basin. The groundwater is classified as HCO3–Ca·Mg type freshwater and SO4·Cl–Ca·Mg type brackish water. Based on ion ratio coefficients and 87Sr/86Sr ratios, mineral dissolution, evaporation concentration and cation exchange are the dominant processes in the hydrochemical formation of brackish groundwater in the basin. The primary minerals undergoing dissolution in the basin include evaporites, carbonates and silicates. Discrimination using a hydrochemical component end‐member mixing model identifies evaporites (73.6%) and carbonates (4.5%) as the main dissolved components in the brackish groundwater segment, while evaporites (67.5%) and carbonates (16.25%) are predominant in the partial dissolution of minerals in the freshwater segment. This suggests that the dissolution of evaporites plays a significant role in shaping the hydrogeochemistry of the Huangshui River Basin.
Geopolitical Risk and Foreign Direct Investment Inflows: The Moderating Role of Water and Energy Risks
Authors: Kapopoulos Theodore , Sakkas Athanasios , Drakos Konstantinos
Published: December 2024

Using a panel of 43 economies between 1985 and 2022, this article establishes a link between foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows and geopolitical risk. We distinguish the idiosyncratic component of geopolitical risk from the global geopolitical risk index provided by Caldara and Iacoviello (2022. American Economic Review, 112, 1194–1225.). We then incorporate both global and idiosyncratic risks into a static FDI regression model, controlling for other economic and institutional determinants. Our findings suggest that both global and idiosyncratic geopolitical risks pose significant obstacles to FDI inflows. Additionally, we investigate whether water and energy risks, when interacting with geopolitical risk, influence the behaviour of international investors. To test this hypothesis, we estimate the interaction effect of water stress and energy intensity as proxies for water and energy risks, respectively. Our findings imply that foreign investors perceive high energy intensity and water stress as moderating factors that could motivate host country policymakers to avoid involvement in geopolitical confrontations, thereby supporting peacebuilding to prevent or resolute conflicts.