bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The improved grasshopper optimization algorithm with Cauchy mutation strategy and random weight operator for solving optimization problems
Authors: Wu Lei , Wu Jiawei , Wang Tengbin
Published: July 2023

An improved grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) is proposed in this paper, termed CMRWGOA, which combines both Random Weight (shorted RWGOA) and Cauchy mutation (termed CMGOA) mechanism into the GOA. The GOA received inspiration from the foraging and swarming habits of grasshoppers. The performance of the CMRWGOA was validated by 23 benchmark functions in comparison with four well-known meta-heuristic algorithms (AHA, DA, GOA, and MVO), CMGOA, RWGOA, and the GOA. The non-parametric Wilcoxon, Friedman, and Nemenyi statistical tests are conducted on the CMRWGOA. Furthermore, the CMRWGOA has been evaluated in three real-life challenging optimization problems as a complementary study. Various strictly extensive experimental results reveal that the CMRWGOA exhibit better performance.
Speechlessness: a Conceptual Framework
Authors: Dietz Thilo , Schiewer Vera , Karbach Ute , Kusch Michael
Published: July 2023

The phenomenon of speechlessness has hardly been considered in the literature from a psychological point of view. Previous research on speechlessness is limited to the fields of neurology, medicine or psychopathology. The present review aims to consider speechlessness from a psychological perspective distinct from pathology, and to highlight its observability and possible connections to existing research in the context of emotional cognition and processing. Search terms were developed and a comprehensive, systematic literature search was conducted in various databases based on previous scientific work on the understanding of non-speech, silence and speechlessness. Only results that examined the phenomenon of speechlessness from a non-pathological or non-neurological perspective were included. A total ofN = 7 publications matching the inclusion criteria were identified. The results were used to develop a procedual model for the phenomenological definition of speechlessness. The developed model differentiates the observable phenomenon of speechlessness into a non-intentional, unconscious form and a intentional, conscious form. The present work suggests that meaningful emotions and their perception and processing is a core element in the emergence of speechlessness and provides a first, psychological, non-pathological explanation of speechlessness.
On the $$H^1(ds^\gamma )$$-Gradient Flow for the Length Functional
Authors: Schrader Philip , Wheeler Glen , Wheeler Valentina-Mira
Published: July 2023

In this article, we consider the length functional defined on the space of immersed planar curves. The $$L^2(ds^\gamma )$$

L
2

(
d

s
γ

)

Riemannian metric gives rise to the curve shortening flow as the gradient flow of the length functional. Motivated by the vanishing of the $$L^2(ds^\gamma )$$

L
2

(
d

s
γ

)

Riemannian distance, we consider the gradient flow of the length functional with respect to the $$H^1(ds^\gamma )$$

H
1

(
d

s
γ

)

-metric. Circles with radius $$r_0$$

r
0

shrink with $$r(t) = \sqrt{W(e^{c-2t})}$$

r

(
t
)

=

W
(

e

c
-
2
t

)

under the flow, where W is the Lambert W function and $$c = r_0^2 + \log r_0^2$$

c
=

r
0
2

+
log

r
0
2

. We conduct a thorough study of this flow, giving existence of eternal solutions and convergence for general initial data, preservation of regularity in various spaces, qualitative properties of the flow after an appropriate rescaling, and numerical simulations.
Money laundering, corruption and socioeconomic development in Iran: an analysis by structural equation modeling
Authors: Dell’Anno Roberto , Maddah Majid
Published: July 2023

This paper aims to assess the effects of money laundering (ML) and corruption on socioeconomic development in Iran as a case study for developing countries. We also investigate the complex interactions among socioeconomic development, ML, corruption, private expenditure, and dependence of the Iranian economy on oil production. The paper uses the partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to estimate an index of Iranian ML over the period 1997–2017. The results show that in the short run, there is a positive overall effect of ML on economic development. This effect is due to the multiplicative effect of the reinvestment of criminal proceeds in the national economy. We estimate that, in the last decade, a plausible estimate of Iranian ML is approximately 10% of official GDP. From a methodological perspective, this research applies a new calibration approach to convert the latent scores calculated by PLS-SEM into actual values of ML.
DNA metabarcoding Passerine bird feces at tree-line uncovers little intra- and inter-species dietary overlap
Authors: Bookwalter Jamie , Niyas Afaq M. Mohamed , Caballero-López Berta , Villari Caterina , Marco-Tresserras Jana , Burgas Albert , Ferrandiz-Rovira Mariona , Claramunt-López Bernat
Published: July 2023

High-elevation insectivorous birds are currently confronted with the reality of a changing climate, land use shifts, and the decline of many prey groups. The diet dynamics among many imperiled animals in this group are still unresolved. Examining the diets of tree-line Passerine birds to the species level of the prey allows for stronger population predictions. This study uses DNA metabarcoding to identify prey arthropods from adult Passerine bird feces at and slightly below tree-line in a Pyrenean forest. Our objective was to quantify the intra-and inter-species richness and overlap of Passerine bird diet over time and space. The results showed that adult Passerine diets have high inter- and intra-species dietary variability and low inter- and intra-species dietary overlap. The lack of association between dietary richness and open space, season, and elevation and lack of differences between dietary overlap and open space and elevation suggest high-elevation Passerine birds have very high dietary flexibility. The results also showed that aphids known to be pests to conifers, and other conifer pests, were prevalent in the birds’ diets. The Passerine diets and high rate of rare dietary items are mainly in line with other recent DNA metabarcoding studies. Implications for the long-term projections relative to tree-line Passerine populations are discussed.
A Three-Dimensional UCAV Path Planning Approach Based on Immune Plasma Algorithm
Authors: Aslan Selcuk , Rohacs Daniel , Yıldız Melih , Kale Utku
Published: July 2023

Path planning of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or its variant supported with weapon systems, also called unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), is one of the most crucial steps for the autonomous flight and requires compelling decisions being made by considering the existence of the enemy defence, obstacles, and battery or fuel capacity of the vehicle optimally before starting the flight. Immune plasma algorithm (IP algorithm or IPA), inspired by the convalescent plasma treatment which is a medical method being popularized again with the rise of new coronavirus or COVID-19, has been introduced recently as a new optimization technique and the promising performance of the mentioned algorithm validated through a set of numerical and engineering problems. In this study, the IP algorithm was specialized as a three-dimensional UCAV path planner for the first time. Its performance was investigated particularly by using three different battlefield environments and assigning various constants to the population size. Moreover, the effect of two IPA-specific control parameters that are responsible for determining the number of donors and number of receivers on the qualities of the calculated paths were analyzed in detail. The results obtained by the IPA were compared with the results of other three-dimensional path planners guiding optimization algorithms such as simulated annealing (SA), gray wolf optimizer (GWO) and symbiotic organism search (SOS). Experimental studies showed that the main idea lying behind the usage of qualified solutions as donors and transferring information directly from them to the receivers representing the poor solutions of the problem gives a positive contribution to the exploitation-dominant operations of IPA and fully complies with the challenging requirements of the path planning problem. Especially in the battlefields for which an optimal or near optimal path contains complex maneuvers, the advantages from the subtly balanced operational steps of the IPA become more apparent by setting the number of donors and receivers appropriately and IPA is found to be more stable and successful compared to the other tested algorithms.
Gauge Symmetries, Symmetry Breaking, and Gauge-Invariant Approaches
Authors: Berghofer Philipp , François Jordan , Friederich Simon , Gomes Henrique , Hetzroni Guy , Maas Axel , Sondenheimer René
Published: July 2023

Gauge symmetries play a central role, both in the mathematical foundations as well as the conceptual construction of modern (particle) physics theories. However, it is yet unclear whether they form a necessary component of theories, or whether they can be eliminated. It is also unclear whether they are merely an auxiliary tool to simplify (and possibly localize) calculations or whether they contain independent information. Therefore their status, both in physics and philosophy of physics, remains to be fully clarified. This Element reviews the current state of affairs on both the philosophy and the physics side. In particular, it focuses on the circumstances in which the restriction of gauge theories to gauge invariant information on an observable level is warranted, using the Brout-Englert-Higgs theory as an example of particular current importance. Finally, the authors determine a set of yet to be answered questions to clarify the status of gauge symmetries.
A novel workflow for streamflow prediction in the presence of missing gauge observations
Authors: Mbuvha Rendani , Adounkpe Julien Y.P. , Houngnibo Mandela C.M. , Mongwe Wilson T. , Nikraftar Zahir , Marwala Tshilidzi , Newlands Nathaniel K.
Published: July 2023

Streamflow predictions are vital for detecting flood and drought events. Such predictions are even more critical to Sub-Saharan African regions that are vulnerable to the increasing frequency and intensity of such events. These regions are sparsely gaged, with few available gaging stations that are often plagued with missing data due to various causes, such as harsh environmental conditions and constrained operational resources. This work presents a novel workflow for predicting streamflow in the presence of missing gage observations. We leverage bias correction of the Group on Earth Observations Global Water and Sustainability Initiative ECMWF streamflow service (GESS) forecasts for missing data imputation and predict future streamflow using the state-of-the-art temporal fusion transformers (TFTs) at 10 river gaging stations in the Benin Republic. We show by simulating missingness in a testing period that GESS forecasts have a significant bias that results in poor imputation performance over the 10 Beninese stations. Our findings suggest that overall bias correction by Elastic Net and Gaussian Process regression achieves superior performance relative to traditional imputation by established methods. We also show that the TFT yields high predictive skill and further provides explanations for predictions through the weights of its attention mechanism. The findings of this work provide a basis for integrating Global streamflow prediction model data and the state-of-the-art machine learning models into operational early-warning decision-making systems in resource-constrained countries vulnerable to drought and flooding due to extreme weather events.
Weights in a Benson-Solomon block
Authors: Lynd Justin , Semeraro Jason
Published: July 2023

To each pair consisting of a saturated fusion system over ap-group together with a compatible family of Külshammer-Puig cohomology classes, one can count weights in a hypothetical block algebra arising from these data. When the pair arises from a genuine block of a finite group algebra in characteristicp, the number of conjugacy classes of weights is supposed to be the number of simple modules in the block. We show that there is unique such pair associated with each Benson-Solomon exotic fusion system, and that the number of weights in a hypothetical Benson-Solomon block is$12$, independently of the field of definition. This is carried out in part by listing explicitly up to conjugacy all centric radical subgroups and their outer automorphism groups in these systems.
High-energy, alignment-insensitive, injection-seeded Q-switched Ho:yttrium aluminum garnet single-frequency laser
Authors: Yan Dong , Yuan Yue , Wang Yunpeng , Fan Jiawei , Wu Jiaze , Duan Xiaoming , Li Sining , Dai Tongyu , Ju Youlun
Published: July 2023

A high-energy, alignment-insensitive, injection-seeded Q-switched Ho:yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) single-frequency laser is developed. Both the slave Q-switched laser and the seed laser are Ho:YAG ring lasers based on a pair of corner cubic reflectors. The seed laser has an available power of 830 mW at 2096.667 nm. At 100 Hz, the Q-switched Ho:YAG laser provides a single-frequency pulsed output using injection-seeded technology. The 7.3 mJ single-frequency pulse energy from the slave laser has a pulse width of 161.2 ns and is scaled to 33.3 mJ after passing through the Ho:YAG single-pass amplifier. According to the measurement results of the heterodyne beating technique, the single-frequency pulse has a half-width of 4.12 MHz.
On the pressure field, nuclei dynamics and their relation to cavitation inception in a turbulent shear layer
Authors: Agarwal Karuna , Ram Omri , Lu Yuhui , Katz Joseph
Published: July 2023

Cavitation inception in the turbulent shear layer developing behind a backward-facing step occurs at multiple points along quasi-streamwise vortices (QSVs), at a rate that increases with the Reynolds number (Re). This study investigates the evolution of the unsteady pressure field and the distribution of nuclei within and around the QSVs. The time-resolved volumetric velocity in the non-cavitating flow is measured using tomographic particle tracking, and the pressure is determined by spatial integration of the material acceleration. Analysis in Eulerian and Lagrangian reference frames reveals that the pressure is lower, and its minima last longer within the QSVs compared with the surrounding flow. The intermittent low pressure regions, whose sizes and shapes are consistent with those of the cavities, are likely to be preceded by axial vortex stretching and followed by contraction. Such phenomena have been observed before in simulations of stretched vortex elements. For the same axial straining, the pressure minima last longer with increasingRe, a trend elucidated in terms of viscous diffusion of the stretched vortex core. The impact of nuclei availability is studied under ‘natural’ and controlled seeding. Owing to differences in the saturation level of non-condensable gas, the microbubble concentration in the shear layer decreases with increasingRe, in contrast to the rate of cavitation events. Minor differences in entrainment rate into the shear layer also do not explain the substantialReeffects on cavitation inception. Hence, theRescaling of inception appears to be dominated by trends of the pressure field.
Exceptions to Socialism: Gender, Ethnicity, and the Transformation of Soviet Development in Comparative Perspective
Authors: Kalinovsky Artemy M.
Published: July 2023

In the 1970s and 1980s, Soviet social scientists and planners grew increasingly skeptical that they could draw Central Asian peasants, and especially women, into the industrial workforce, and turned to experimenting with “non traditional” forms of work, such as home labor for handicrafts and consumer goods and family subcontracting in agriculture. This article traces Soviet debates about women’s labor and the family in Central Asia in the context of demographic policy, productivity, and welfare. It argues that the evolution of home labor and other “non traditional” labor policies aimed at Central Asians share two distinctive features with neoliberal-inspired welfare discussions in the United States as well as the emerging politics of entrepreneurship in the sphere of international development. First, all three emerged as a result of social scientists and planners revisiting earlier paradigms after perceived policy failures. Second, despite their pessimistic reading of earlier policy initiatives, Soviet policymakers and their counterparts hung on tenaciously to the idea that state policy could be used to improve people’s lives. By studying the turn towards individual labor and entrepreneurship in the USSR alongside the emergence of micro-credit in international development and changing welfare politics in the US, we can see neoliberalism emerging where universalist policies meet their limits.
Fast-Moving Habit: Implications for Equity Returns
Authors: Lynch Anthony W. , Randall Oliver
Published: July 2023

We find that the Campbell–Cochrane external-habit model can generate a value premium if the persistence of the consumption surplus is sufficiently low. Such low persistence is supported by micro evidence on consumption. If the mean and conditional volatility of consumption growth are highly persistent, as in the Bansal–Yaron long-run risk model, then fast-moving habit can also generate, without eroding the value premium: i) empirically sensible long horizon return predictability; and ii) a price–dividend ratio for market equity that exhibits the high autocorrelation found in the data. Fast-moving habit also delivers several empirical properties of market-dividend strips.
Should panpsychists be Christians?
Authors: Goff Philip
Published: July 2023

In this article, I offer a response to Joanna Leidenhag's book Mind Creation: Theological Panpsychism and the Doctrine of Creation. Whereas Leidenhag argues that the panpsychist's demands for explanation of the mind lead naturally to demands for an explanation of the whole universe, I counter that (i) the panpsychist's explanatory demands are not necessarily quite as general as Leidenhag presumes, and (ii) demands for an explanation of the whole universe can in any case be satisfying via the postulation of a self-explaining universe. I agree with Leidenhag that panpsychism is potentially a helpful way for Christians to think about the relationship between God and the universe, while disagreeing concerning how well suited process theism is to making sense of such a relationship. Finally, in terms of eco-philosophy, I agree with Leidenhag that panpsychism is conducive to a healthier relationship between humans and the natural world, while expressing reservations that a specifically Christian form of panpsychist eco-philosophy is preferable.
Widows and the termination of the gender contract
Authors: Manor Shlomit
Published: July 2023

Widowhood is often described through stereotypes and images of passive, weak, lonely and dependent women. This study presents additional aspects of widows who have chosen to continue their lives without a new spouse. It thus joins the recently growing body of knowledge which presents widowhood in a less one-dimensional way while referring to the complexity and different layers of widows' lives. A qualitative study was conducted with 30 women aged 63–87 who had been widows for 1–34 years. The findings showed that the dominant experience shared by all women is one of liberation and freedom – a feeling of independence that is expressed socially, personally and economically. Thus, alongside feelings of loneliness and adaptation difficulties, they also experience strength and empowerment. The term ‘gender contract’ serves as a theoretical explanation of the independence narrative that characterises the widows; the termination of the couple's gender contract allows them to redefine their priorities, identify themselves as active instead of passive figures and create for themselves a place of their own. By bringing widowhood to the centre of the discussion, the study gives legitimacy to a discourse on feelings less spoken about, such as relief, freedom and independence. In this way, the study contributes to the ongoing debate on widows by shattering the accepted myth of widows as vulnerable, weak and dependent but without underestimating the difficulties or ignoring the women's diversity.
Mangrove propagules are limited in their capacity to disperse across long distances
Authors: Granville Natasha R. , Banks-Leite Cristina
Published: July 2023

Mangroves are subject to rapid and large-scale habitat changes, which threaten their unique genetic diversity and provision of critically important ecosystem services. Habitat fragmentation reduces connectivity, which can impair dispersal and lead to genetic isolation. However, it is unclear whether fragmentation could impact mangrove genetic isolation, as mangrove propagules appear to be able to disperse long distances. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis of studies testing for a correlation between geographic distance and genetic distance in mangrove plants. From the 22 studies that met the inclusion criteria, we found a significant isolation-by-distance effect; geographic distance was significantly associated with Nei’s genetic distance and FST. Our results show that mangrove propagules may be limited in their capacity to disperse across long distances, which highlights the importance of maintaining close proximity between habitat patches and reducing habitat fragmentation.
Nanoscale multi-beam lithography of photonic crystals with ultrafast laser
Authors: Li Jiaqun , Yan Jianfeng , Jiang Lan , Yu Jiachen , Guo Heng , Qu Liangti
Published: July 2023

Photonic crystals are utilized in many noteworthy applications like optical communications, light flow control, and quantum optics. Photonic crystal with nanoscale structure is important for the manipulation of light propagation in visible and near-infrared range. Herein, we propose a novel multi beam lithography method to fabricate photonic crystal with nanoscale structure without cracking. Using multi-beam ultrafast laser processing and etching, parallel channels with subwavelength gap are obtained in yttrium aluminum garnet crystal. Combining optical simulation based on Debye diffraction, we experimentally show the gap width of parallel channels can be controlled at nanoscale by changing phase holograms. With the superimposed phase hologram designing, functional structures of complicated channel arrays distribution can be created in crystal. Optical gratings of different periods are fabricated, which can diffract incident light in particular ways. This approach can efficiently manufacture nanostructures with controllable gap, and offer an alternative to the fabrication of complex photonic crystal for integrated photonics applications.
Rapid prototyping of a polymer MEMS droplet dispenser by laser-assisted 3D printing
Authors: Courson Rémi , Bratash Oleksii , Maziz Ali , Desmet Cloé , Meza Ricardo Alvarado , Leroy Loïc , Engel Elodie , Buhot Arnaud , Malaquin Laurent , Leïchlé Thierry
Published: July 2023

In this work, we introduce a polymer version of a previously developed silicon MEMS drop deposition tool for surface functionalization that consists of a microcantilever integrating an open fluidic channel and a reservoir. The device is fabricated by laser stereolithography, which offers the advantages of low-cost and fast prototyping. Additionally, thanks to the ability to process multiple materials, a magnetic base is incorporated into the cantilever for convenient handling and attachment to the holder of a robotized stage used for spotting. Droplets with diameters ranging from ∼50 µm to ∼300 µm are printed upon direct contact of the cantilever tip with the surface to pattern. Liquid loading is achieved by fully immersing the cantilever into a reservoir drop, where a single load results in the deposition of more than 200 droplets. The influences of the size and shape of the cantilever tip and the reservoir on the printing outcome are studied. As a proof-of-concept of the biofunctionalization capability of this 3D printed droplet dispenser, microarrays of oligonucleotides and antibodies displaying high specificity and no cross-contamination are fabricated, and droplets are deposited at the tip of an optical fiber bundle.
Risks of synchronized low yields are underestimated in climate and crop model projections
Authors: Kornhuber Kai , Lesk Corey , Schleussner Carl F. , Jägermeyr Jonas , Pfleiderer Peter , Horton Radley M.
Published: July 2023

Simultaneous harvest failures across major crop-producing regions are a threat to global food security. Concurrent weather extremes driven by a strongly meandering jet stream could trigger such events, but so far this has not been quantified. Specifically, the ability of state-of-the art crop and climate models to adequately reproduce such high impact events is a crucial component for estimating risks to global food security. Here we find an increased likelihood of concurrent low yields during summers featuring meandering jets in observations and models. While climate models accurately simulate atmospheric patterns, associated surface weather anomalies and negative effects on crop responses are mostly underestimated in bias-adjusted simulations. Given the identified model biases, future assessments of regional and concurrent crop losses from meandering jet states remain highly uncertain. Our results suggest that model-blind spots for such high-impact but deeply-uncertain hazards have to be anticipated and accounted for in meaningful climate risk assessments.
Tuning hydrogenation chemistry of Pd-based heterogeneous catalysts by introducing homogeneous-like ligands
Authors: Zhang Jianghao , Hu Wenda , Qian Binbin , Li Houqian , Sudduth Berlin , Engelhard Mark , Zhang Lian , Hu Jianzhi , Sun Junming , Zhang Changbin , He Hong , Wang Yong
Published: July 2023

Noble metals have been extensively employed in a variety of hydrotreating catalyst systems for their featured functionality of hydrogen activation but may also bring side reactions such as undesired deep hydrogenation. It is crucial to develop a viable approach to selectively inhibit side reactions while preserving beneficial functionalities. Herein, we present modifying Pd with alkenyl-type ligands that forms homogeneous-like Pd-alkene metallacycle structure on the heterogeneous Pd catalyst to achieve the selective hydrogenolysis and hydrogenation. Particularly, a doped alkenyl-type carbon ligand on Pd-Fe catalyst is demonstrated to donate electrons to Pd, creating an electron-rich environment that elongates the distance and weakens the electronic interaction between Pd and unsaturated C of the reactants/products to control the hydrogenation chemistry. Moreover, high H2 activation capability is maintained over Pd and the activated H is transferred to Fe to facilitate C-O bond cleavage or directly participate in the reaction on Pd. The modified Pd-Fe catalyst displays comparable C-O bond cleavage rate but much higher selectivity (>90%) than the bare Pd-Fe (<50%) in hydrotreating of diphenyl ether (DPE, modelling the strongest C-O linkage in lignin) and enhanced ethene selectivity (>90%) in acetylene hydrogenation. This work sheds light on the controlled synthesis of selective hydrotreating catalysts via mimicking homogeneous analogues.
Herbivory and nutrients shape grassland soil seed banks
Authors: Eskelinen Anu , Jessen Maria-Theresa , Bahamonde Hector A. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Borer Elizabeth T. , Caldeira Maria C. , Harpole W. Stanley , Jia Meiyu , Lannes Luciola S. , Nogueira Carla , Olde Venterink Harry , Peri Pablo L. , Porath-Krause Anita J. , Seabloom Eric W. , Schroeder Katie , Tognetti Pedro M. , Yasui Simone-Louise E. , Virtanen Risto , Sullivan Lauren L.
Published: July 2023

Anthropogenic nutrient enrichment and shifts in herbivory can lead to dramatic changes in the composition and diversity of aboveground plant communities. In turn, this can alter seed banks in the soil, which are cryptic reservoirs of plant diversity. Here, we use data from seven Nutrient Network grassland sites on four continents, encompassing a range of climatic and environmental conditions, to test the joint effects of fertilization and aboveground mammalian herbivory on seed banks and on the similarity between aboveground plant communities and seed banks. We find that fertilization decreases plant species richness and diversity in seed banks, and homogenizes composition between aboveground and seed bank communities. Fertilization increases seed bank abundance especially in the presence of herbivores, while this effect is smaller in the absence of herbivores. Our findings highlight that nutrient enrichment can weaken a diversity maintaining mechanism in grasslands, and that herbivory needs to be considered when assessing nutrient enrichment effects on seed bank abundance.
Single cohesin molecules generate force by two distinct mechanisms
Authors: Pobegalov Georgii , Chu Lee-Ya , Peters Jan-Michael , Molodtsov Maxim I.
Published: July 2023

Spatial organization of DNA is facilitated by cohesin protein complexes that move on DNA and extrude DNA loops. How cohesin works mechanistically as a molecular machine is poorly understood. Here, we measure mechanical forces generated by conformational changes in single cohesin molecules. We show that bending of SMC coiled coils is driven by random thermal fluctuations leading to a ~32 nm head-hinge displacement that resists forces up to 1 pN; ATPase head engagement occurs in a single step of ~10 nm and is driven by an ATP dependent head-head movement, resisting forces up to 15 pN. Our molecular dynamic simulations show that the energy of head engagement can be stored in a mechanically strained conformation of NIPBL and released during disengagement. These findings reveal how single cohesin molecules generate force by two distinct mechanisms. We present a model, which proposes how this ability may power different aspects of cohesin-DNA interaction.
Whole genome sequencing identifies genetic variants associated with neurogenic inflammation in rosacea
Authors: Deng Zhili , Chen Mengting , Zhao Zhixiang , Xiao Wenqin , Liu Tangxiele , Peng Qinqin , Wu Zheng , Xu San , Shi Wei , Jian Dan , Wang Ben , Liu Fangfen , Tang Yan , Huang Yingxue , Zhang Yiya , Wang Qian , Sun Lunquan , Xie Hongfu , Zhang Guohong , Li Ji
Published: July 2023

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with high incidence rate. Although genetic predisposition to rosacea is suggested by existing evidence, the genetic basis remains largely unknown. Here we present the integrated results of whole genome sequencing (WGS) in 3 large rosacea families and whole exome sequencing (WES) in 49 additional validation families. We identify single rare deleterious variants of LRRC4, SH3PXD2A and SLC26A8 in large families, respectively. The relevance of SH3PXD2A, SLC26A8 and LRR family genes in rosacea predisposition is underscored by presence of additional variants in independent families. Gene ontology analysis suggests that these genes encode proteins taking part in neural synaptic processes and cell adhesion. In vitro functional analysis shows that mutations in LRRC4, SH3PXD2A and SLC26A8 induce the production of vasoactive neuropeptides in human neural cells. In a mouse model recapitulating a recurrent Lrrc4 mutation from human patients, we find rosacea-like skin inflammation, underpinned by excessive vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) release by peripheral neurons. These findings strongly support familial inheritance and neurogenic inflammation in rosacea development and provide mechanistic insight into the etiopathogenesis of the condition.
Seismic performance evaluation of plastered cellular lightweight concrete (CLC) block masonry walls
Authors: Khan Khalid , Shahzada Khan , Gul Akhtar , Khan Inayat Ullah , Eldin Sayed M. , Iqbal Mudassir
Published: July 2023

The current research presents a novel and sustainable load-bearing system utilizing cellular lightweight concrete block masonry walls. These blocks, known for their eco-friendly properties and increasing popularity in the construction industry, have been studied extensively for their physical and mechanical characteristics. However, this study aims to expand upon previous research by examining the seismic performance of these walls in a seismically active region, where cellular lightweight concrete block usage is emerging. The study includes the construction and testing of multiple masonry prisms, wallets, and full-scale walls using a quasi-static reverse cyclic loading protocol. The behavior of the walls is analyzed and compared in terms of various parameters such as force–deformation curve, energy dissipation, stiffness degradation, deformation ductility factor, response modification factor, and seismic performance levels, as well as rocking, in-plane sliding, and out-of-plane movement. The results indicate that the use of confining elements significantly improves the lateral load capacity, elastic stiffness, and displacement ductility factor of the confined masonry wall in comparison to an unreinforced masonry wall by 102%, 66.67%, and 5.3%, respectively. Overall, the study concludes that the inclusion of confining elements enhances the seismic performance of the confined masonry wall under lateral loading.
Size of living space as a moderator for central and peripheral refractions in children
Authors: Choi Kai Yip , Leung Tsz Wing , Chan Henry Ho-Lung
Published: July 2023

Undesirable living environment may impose risk on myopia development. Furthermore, peripheral refractive error was suggested to contribute to juvenile eye growth modulation. This study aimed to investigate the interaction between peripheral refractive error and living environment in relation to central refractive status in Hong Kong schoolchildren. Central and peripheral refractive errors, axial length (AL), and corneal radius of curvature (CR) were measured in 573 schoolchildren (age 9.5 ± 0.9 years). The AL/CR ratio was used to represent the central refractive status, accounting for non-cycloplegic refraction. The relative peripheral refractive errors (RPRE) up to ± 20° eccentricities were converted into power vectors: spherical-equivalent error (SER) and J0 astigmatic components and fitted with quadratic equations. The second-order coefficients of SER (aSER) and J0 astigmatism (aJ0) and home size reported by parental questionnaires were analyzed to indicate their relationships with AL/CR. Our results showed that children with higher AL/CR lived in smaller homes (p = 0.01) and had a more hyperopic (p < 0.001) but less astigmatic RPRE (p = 0.01). We further analyzed the relationship between AL/CR with RPRE for children living in small (< 300 ft2), moderate (300–600 ft2), and large home sizes (> 600 ft2). Regardless of the home size, a higher AL/CR remained moderately correlated with a more hyperopic aSER (all p < 0.001). However, a higher AL/CR was associated with a more positive aJ0 only in children living in large homes, and the relationships were not significant for small and moderate home sizes. Linear regression models further indicated that home size was a significant moderator contributing to the relationship between AL/CR and aJ0. In conclusion, our results were consistent with previous studies, showing that children with axial myopia usually lived in smaller homes and had more hyperopic defocus and more positive J0 astigmatism. However, the relationship between peripheral astigmatism and axial refraction was modulated by the home size of Hong Kong schoolchildren. While peripheral astigmatism is hypothesized as a visual cue for axial refractive development in children, extrinsic environmental factors, such as home size, might interfere with the relationship and dominate refractive development.
Sex-dependent effects of mechanical delousing on the skin microbiome of broodstock Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.)
Authors: Casadei Elisa , Mani Amir , Cisco Mariela , Vågnes Øyvind , Salinas Irene , Patel Sonal
Published: July 2023

Delousing strategies, including mechanical delousing, are typically used to treat Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) sea lice infestations. In this study, we evaluate the impact of mechanical delousing (Hydrolicer) on the skin bacterial microbiome of broodstock female and male Atlantic salmon. 16S rDNA sequencing of salmon skin microbial communities was performed immediately before delousing, right after delousing and 2 and 13 days post-delousing (dpd). The skin bacterial community of female salmon was more diverse than that of males at the start of the experiment. Overall, hydrolycer caused losses in alpha diversity in females and increases in alpha diversity in males. Hydrolicer also caused rapid shifts in the skin microbial community composition immediately after delicing in a sex-specific manner. There was a decrease in abundance of Proteobacteria and Bacteriodetes in both female and male salmon, whereas Firmicutes and Tenericutes abundances increased. Interestingly, the female community recovered faster, while the male community remained dysbiotic 13 dpd due to expansions in Bacteroidetes (Pseudomonadaceae) and Firmicutes. Our data suggest that female broodstock are more resilient to Hydrolicer treatment due to their more diverse skin microbiota community, and that sex influences the skin microbial community and therefore host health outcomes during common farming manipulations.
Two local minima for structures of [4Fe–4S] clusters obtained with density functional theory methods
Authors: Jafari Sonia , Ryde Ulf , Irani Mehdi
Published: July 2023

[4Fe–4S] clusters are essential cofactors in many proteins involved in biological redox-active processes. Density functional theory (DFT) methods are widely used to study these clusters. Previous investigations have indicated that there exist two local minima for these clusters in proteins. We perform a detailed study of these minima in five proteins and two oxidation states, using combined quantum mechanical and molecular mechanical (QM/MM) methods. We show that one local minimum (L state) has longer Fe–Fe distances than the other (S state), and that the L state is more stable for all cases studied. We also show that some DFT methods may only obtain the L state, while others may obtain both states. Our work provides new insights into the structural diversity and stability of [4Fe–4S] clusters in proteins, and highlights the importance of reliable DFT methods and geometry optimization. We recommend r2SCAN for optimizing [4Fe-4S] clusters in proteins, which gives the most accurate structures for the five proteins studied.
LGR4 and LGR5 form distinct homodimers that only LGR4 complexes with RNF43/ZNRF3 to provide high affinity binding of R-spondin ligands
Authors: Toh Yukimatsu , Wu Ling , Park Soohyun , Wang Allison , Tu Jianghua , Yu Wangsheng , Zuo Mingxin , Carmon Kendra S. , Liu Qingyun J.
Published: July 2023

LGR4 and LGR5 are two homologous receptors that potentiate Wnt/β-catenin signaling in response to R-spondin (RSPO) ligands. The RSPO and LGR4 complex binds to and inhibits activities of two related E3 ubiquitin ligases, RNF43 and ZNRF3, and thus protects Wnt receptors from the E3 ligase-mediated degradation. The RSPO and LGR5 complex, however, does not interact with the E3 ligases, and the structural basis of this difference remained unknown. Here we examined the affinities of monovalent and bivalent RSPO ligands in binding to LGR4, RNF43/ZNRF3, and LGR5 in whole cells and found unique features among the receptors and E3 ligases. Monovalent RSPO2 furin domain had much lower affinity in binding to LGR4 or RNF43/ZNRF3 than the bivalent form. In contrast, monovalent and bivalent forms had nearly identical affinity in binding to LGR5. Co-expression of ZNRF3 with LGR4 led to much higher binding affinity of the monovalent form whereas co-expression of ZNRF3 with LGR5 had no effect on the affinity. These results suggest that LGR4 and RNF43/ZNRF3 form a 2:2 dimer that accommodates bivalent binding of RSPO whereas LGR5 forms a homodimer that does not. Structural models are proposed to illustrate how RSPOs bind to LGR4, RNF43/ZNRF3, and LGR5 in whole cells.
Airfoil-shaped filament feed spacer for improved filtration performance in water treatment
Authors: Qamar Adnan , Kerdi Sarah , Vrouwenvelder Johannes S. , Ghaffour Noreddine
Published: July 2023

Optimal spacer design enhances the filtration performance in spiral-wound modules by controlling the local hydrodynamics inside the filtration channel. A novel airfoil feed spacer design fabricated using 3D-printing technology is proposed in this study. The design is a ladder-shaped configuration with primary airfoil-shaped filaments facing the incoming feed flow. The airfoil filaments are reinforced by cylindrical pillars supporting the membrane surface. Laterally, all the airfoil filaments are connected by thin cylindrical filaments. The performances of the novel airfoil spacers are evaluated at Angle of Attack (AOA) of 10° (A-10 spacer) and 30° (A-30 spacer) and compared with commercial (COM) spacer. At fixed operating conditions, simulations indicate steady-state hydrodynamics inside the channel for A-10 spacer, while an unsteady state is found for A-30 spacer. Numerical wall shear stress for airfoil spacers is uniformly distributed and has a higher magnitude than the COM spacer. A-30 spacer design is the most efficient in ultrafiltration process with enhanced permeate flux (228%) and reduced specific energy consumption (23%) and biofouling development (74%) as characterized by Optical Coherence Tomography. Results systematically demonstrate the influential role of airfoil-shaped filaments for feed spacer design. Modifying AOA allows localized hydrodynamics to be effectively controlled according to the filtration type and operating conditions.
Immunoassay-based quantification of full-length peptidylglycine alpha-amidating monooxygenase in human plasma
Authors: Ilina Yulia , Kaufmann Paul , Melander Olle , Press Michaela , Thuene Katrin , Bergmann Andreas
Published: July 2023

A one-step sandwich chemiluminescence immunometric assay (LIA) was developed for the quantification of bifunctional peptidylglycine-α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM) in human plasma (PAM-LIA). PAM is responsible for the activation of more than half of known peptide hormones through C-terminal α-amidation. The assay employed antibodies targeting specific catalytic PAM-subunits, peptidylglycine alpha-hydroxylating monooxygenase (PHM) and peptidyl-alpha-hydroxyglycine alpha-amidating lyase (PAL), to ensure detection of full-length PAM. The PAM-LIA assay was calibrated with a human recombinant PAM enzyme and achieved a detection limit of 189 pg/mL and a quantification limit of 250 pg/mL. The assay demonstrated good inter-assay (6.7%) and intra-assay (2.2%) variabilities. It exhibited linearity when accessed by gradual dilution or random mixing of plasma samples. The accuracy of the PAM-LIA was determined to be 94.7% through spiking recovery experiments, and the signal recovery after substance interference was 94–96%. The analyte showed 96% stability after six freeze–thaw cycles. The assay showed strong correlation with matched EDTA and serum samples, as well as matched EDTA and Li-Heparin samples. Additionally, a high correlation was observed between α-amidating activity and PAM-LIA. Finally, the PAM-LIA assay was successfully applied to a sub-cohort of a Swedish population-based study, comprising 4850 individuals, confirming its suitability for routine high throughput screening.
Sensitivity of endogenous autofluorescence in HeLa cells to the application of external magnetic fields
Authors: Uzhytchak Mariia , Smolková Barbora , Frtús Adam , Stupakov Alexandr , Lunova Mariia , Scollo Federica , Hof Martin , Jurkiewicz Piotr , Sullivan Gareth John , Dejneka Alexandr , Lunov Oleg
Published: July 2023

Dramatically increased levels of electromagnetic radiation in the environment have raised concerns over the potential health hazards of electromagnetic fields. Various biological effects of magnetic fields have been proposed. Despite decades of intensive research, the molecular mechanisms procuring cellular responses remain largely unknown. The current literature is conflicting with regards to evidence that magnetic fields affect functionality directly at the cellular level. Therefore, a search for potential direct cellular effects of magnetic fields represents a cornerstone that may propose an explanation for potential health hazards associated with magnetic fields. It has been proposed that autofluorescence of HeLa cells is magnetic field sensitive, relying on single-cell imaging kinetic measurements. Here, we investigate the magnetic field sensitivity of an endogenous autofluorescence in HeLa cells. Under the experimental conditions used, magnetic field sensitivity of an endogenous autofluorescence was not observed in HeLa cells. We present a number of arguments indicating why this is the case in the analysis of magnetic field effects based on the imaging of cellular autofluorescence decay. Our work indicates that new methods are required to elucidate the effects of magnetic fields at the cellular level.
Mg-doped SrTiO3 photocatalyst with Ag–Co cocatalyst for enhanced selective conversion of CO2 to CO using H2O as the electron donor
Authors: Nakamoto Takechi , Iguchi Shoji , Naniwa Shimpei , Tanaka Tsunehiro , Teramura Kentaro
Published: July 2023

Mg-doping into SrTiO3 photocatalyst significantly enhanced formation rate of CO in the photocatalytic conversion of CO2 by H2O.
Indolo[2,3-e]benzazocines and indolo[2,3-f]benzazonines and their copper(ii) complexes as microtubule destabilizing agents
Authors: Wittmann Christopher , Dömötör Orsolya , Kuznetcova Irina , Spengler Gabriella , Reynisson Jóhannes , Holder Lauren , Miller Gavin J. , Enyedy Eva A. , Bai Ruoli , Hamel Ernest , Arion Vladimir B.
Published: July 2023

The tridentate ligand HL1 and its complex 1 showed good antiproliferative activity by inhibition of tubulin assembly.
The independent and combined effects of dietary and sleep patterns on the risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Sun Qianjia , Guo Chuanji , Liu Yashu , Zhang Qing , Liu Li , Sun Shaomei , Wang Xing , Zhou Ming , Jia Qiyu , Song Kun , Ding Yang , Zhao Yuhong , Niu Kaijun , Xia Yang
Published: July 2023

Those who adhere to both healthy dietary and sleep patterns experience the greatest decrease in the risk of developing MAFLD.
Chirality and dislocation effects in single nanostructures probed by whispering gallery modes
Authors: Sutter Peter , Khosravi-Khorashad Larousse , Ciobanu Cristian V. , Sutter Eli
Published: July 2023

Combined nanometer-scale spectroscopy and simulations establish whispering gallery modes as a probe of chirality and dislocation effects in single nanostructures, paving the way for their use in multifunctional electronic and photonic architectures.
Synthesis ofN-β-aminoacrylate substituted indolesviatBuOK catalyzed addition of indoles to ketenimines
Authors: Deng Yan-Qiu , Gu Man-Zhen , Chen Guo-Shu , Li Xin-Yu , He Ying , Zheng Yi-Lin , Yang Qi-Mei , Liu Yun-Lin
Published: July 2023

tBuOK catalyzed aza-Mannich-type addition of indole N–H bonds to ketenimines to affordN-β-aminoacrylate substituted indoles is developed.
Metal-free [2 + 2] and [4 + 2] cycloadditions ofN-aryl-substituted ynamides to construct functionalized aminocyclobutenes and 4-aminoquinolines
Authors: Ding Lixia , Zhu Zhifei , Zhou Xinyue , Zhu Gongming , Wang Jian-Hua , Zhu Shu-Tong , Hu Bing , Wang Xiao-Na , Chang Junbiao
Published: July 2023

Metal-free [2 + 2] and [4 + 2] self-cycloadditions ofN-aryl-substituted ynamides provide various valuable functionalized aminocyclobutenes and 4-aminoquinoline derivatives.
Conditioning of pretreated birch by liquid–liquid organic extractions to improve yeast fermentability and enzymatic digestibility
Authors: Wu Guochao , Alriksson Björn , Jönsson Leif J.
Published: July 2023

Long-chain extractants with suitable properties improve both saccharification and fermentation.