bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The paleobiologic implications of modern nonmarine ecological gradients
Authors: Holland Steven M. , Orchard Cade J. , Loughney Katharine M.
Published: December 2024

In modern nonmarine settings, previous studies have demonstrated the importance of elevation-correlated ecological gradients, but such studies tend to focus on relatively small areas and only one higher taxon. Here, we analyze Global Biodiversity Information Facility occurrence records from a wide variety of taxa across the southeastern U.S. coastal plain. Many taxa display ecological gradients (gradients in proportional or relative abundance) correlated with elevation, distance to the coast, and latitude. These gradients tend to be steepest within a few tens of kilometers near the coast and at elevations less than 25 m. Some taxa, notably terrestrial mammals, do not display gradients correlated with elevation and distance to the coast. The small sample sizes of these groups and their heterogeneous sampling raise concerns about whether sufficient data exist. Coupled with previous studies of these ecological gradients, their common presence over distances of tens to hundreds of kilometers and elevations of tens to hundreds of meters suggests they are likely important in the nonmarine fossil record. Because elevation and distance to the coast change predictably with cycles of accommodation and sediment flux, these ecological gradients are predicted to occur in the nonmarine stratigraphic record, especially through intervals that record transgression or regression. Such gradients will affect the local composition of species associations and occurrences, even in the absence of regional species origination, immigration, and extinction and of regional change in the structure of ecological gradients. The ordination of taxon counts in stratigraphically limited samples has great potential for establishing their existence.
Dairy farming in the era of artificial intelligence: trend or a real game changer?
Authors: Espinoza-Sandoval Oscar R. , Angeles-Hernandez Juan Carlos , Gonzalez-Ronquillo Manuel , Ghavipanje Navid , Zhang Naifeng , Bayat A. R. , Hervás Gonzalo , Kholif Ahmed E. , Mele Marcello , Loor Juan J. , Stergiadis Sokratis , Vargas-Bello-Pérez Einar
Published: December 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the world as we know it, impacting all aspects of modern society, basically due to the advances in computer power, data availability and AI algorithms. The dairy sector is also on the move, from the exponential growth in AI research, to ready to use AI-based products, this new evolution to Dairy 4.0 represents a potential ‘game-changer’ for the dairy sector, to confront challenges regarding sustainability, welfare, and profitability. This research reflection explores the possible impact of AI, discusses the main drivers in the field and describes its origins, challenges, and opportunities. Further, we present a multidimensional vision considering factors that are not commonly considered in dairy research, such as geopolitical aspects and legal regulations that can have an impact on the application of AI in the dairy sector. This is just the beginning of the third tide of AI, and a future is still ahead. For now, the current advances in AI at on-farm level seem limited and based on the revised data, we believe that AI can be a ‘game-changer’ only if it is integrated with other components of Dairy 4.0 (such as robotics) and is fully adopted by dairy farmers.
A nationwide cohort study on pneumonia infections among agriculture and healthcare workers in Taiwan
Authors: de Jong Erik Pieter , Chen Chi-Hsin Sally , Lin Wei-Chi , Chang Chia-Yu , Chan Chang-Chuan
Published: December 2024

Bacterial infection risk in work environments has been extensively reported for healthcare workers, while this risk is rarely researched in other occupations. This study aimed to identify occupational environments in Taiwan’s agricultural and healthcare industries with elevated bacterial infection risks by comparing risks for general bacterial infections and pneumonia. Using labour and health insurance claim data from 3.3 million workers (January 2004–December 2020), a retrospective cohort was constructed to estimate occupational infection risks with Cox regression and the Anderson-Gill extension. Significantly elevated hazard ratios were found for workers in vegetable growing, crop cultivation service, mushroom growing, flower growing, and fruit growing, ranging from 1.13 to 1.39 for general bacterial infections and 1.68 to 3.06 for pneumonia infections. In afforestation and the inland fishing industry, pneumonia risk was significantly elevated with, respectively, 1.87 and 1.21. In the healthcare section, especially workers in residential care services and residential care services for elderly stand out regarding their pneumonia risk, with significant hazard ratios of 3.49 and 1.75. The methods used in this study were proven to be effective in identification of occupation environments at risk and can be used in other settings. These findings call for prioritization of bacterial infection prevention by occupation.
Acute malnutrition associated with mid-upper arm circumference among under-five children in tribal areas, India: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Patra Shraboni , Sambharkar Shashikant , Harode Sheetal , Barde Kalpana , Pillewan Amita
Published: December 2024

Objective:

For the past three decades, India has implemented several nutrition programmes to address malnutrition in the under-fives. To understand the programme’s impact, this study assesses the prevalence of acute malnutrition, moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) and severe acute malnutrition (SAM), using mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) among tribal children.

Design:

The survey was conducted in two tribal blocks (Desaiganj and Bhamragad) of the Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra to identify children registered in the ‘Anganwadi’ program.

Setting:

A community-based cross-sectional survey was carried out.

Participants:

The total sample size was 1055 children (aged 0–59 months).

Results:

The overall prevalence of SAM and MAM was 1·4 % (n 15) and 9·8 % (n 103). A higher prevalence of MAM was found in males (38·5 %, n 40) and females (27·1 %, n 28) in below 6 months. Additionally, a higher prevalence of MAM was observed in females (10·7 %, n 113) compared with males (9·0 %, n 95). The prevalence of SAM was significantly (P < 0·001) higher in females (1·7 %, n 18) than in males (1·0 %, n 11). Children aged between 12 and 17 months were sixteen times more likely (OR = 16·9, P < 0·001, CI = 4·8, 59·6) to have MAM (MUAC < 12·5 cm) than children aged between 6 and 11 months. Children from the Desaiganj block were significantly less likely (OR = 0·4, P < 0·001, CI = 0·2, 0·7) to have MAM compared with children from Bhamragad. Approximately 4 % (n 42) of children were classified as critically malnourished.

Conclusion:

There is an urgent need for block-level monitoring of MAM and SAM, as well as evaluation of existing nutrition programmes, to address the disparity in the sex-specific prevalence of MAM and SAM in tribal areas.
‘Apatiye’ a new cultivar of pistachio with a special growth habit (first report)
Authors: Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: December 2024

Tree architecture is an important factor in increasing performance and better garden management of pistachios. In a pistachio breeding programme, the genotypes obtained from five open pollinated populations were evaluated in terms of growth characteristics. Among the evaluated genotypes, ‘Apatiye’ was identified. This genotype has shoots with crouch angle more than 90° and a height of 110 cm. In previous year's shoots, the terminal buds abort and fall in early spring, stimulating more lateral buds to grow (6–7) than other genotypes (3–4). The growth characteristics of ‘Apatiye’ create a valuable potential resource for breeding pistachio cultivars with low alternate bearing, suitable for manual harvesting and pruning management. In addition, ‘Apatiye’ can be used as a suitable genetic marker in the study of heritability of growth habit in pistachio trees for future studies.
Nightside Neutral Density Disturbances Collocated With Equatorial Plasma Irregularities Above 450 km: GRACE and GRACE‐FO Observations in 2002–2022
Authors: Song Hosub , Park Jaeheung , Xiong Chao , IJssel Jose van den , Lee Daehee , Lee Jaejin , Yi Yu
Published: December 2024

We investigate the climatology of Neutral Density Disturbances (NDDs) collocated with Equatorial Plasma Irregularities (EPIs) at altitudes above 450 km by using 20 years of data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and GRACE‐FO satellites. Electron density data are used to detect EPIs, and thermospheric neutral density measured onboard the same spacecraft serves to identify EPI‐related NDDs. A detailed analysis focused on the morphological similarity between electron and neutral densities. To examine the relationship between EPI and NDD, statistical dependences of EPIs and NDDs on season/longitude (S/L), Magnetic Latitude (MLAT), Magnetic Local Time (MLT), and solar activity have been checked. As a first step, we confirmed that the EPI climatology in GRACE satellite data is consistent with previous reports. Then, it is found that the lower the neutral density in the background upper thermosphere, the higher the probability that EPI can accompany NDDs. We suggest that the vertical plasma advection surrounding EPI can result in neutral density disturbance, of which the efficiency depends on the background neutral scale height or temperature. The colder the thermosphere, the shorter its vertical scale height (or the lower the background neutral density), which can make the plasma advection leave measurable imprints on the neutral density.
Spatiotemporal Clustering of Large Earthquakes Along the Central‐Eastern Sections of the Altyn Tagh Fault, China
Authors: Pinzon Nicolás , Klinger Yann , Xu Xiwei , Tapponnier Paul , Liu‐Zeng Jing , Van Der Woerd Jerome , Li Kang , Gao Mingxing
Published: December 2024

The understanding of the spatial‐temporal distribution of past earthquakes is essential to assess the event recurrence behavior and to estimate the size of potential earthquakes along active strike‐slip fault systems. However, the scarcity of paleoseismic data remains a major hurdle in this endeavor. This is the case of the longest strike‐slip fault in Asia, the Altyn Tagh Fault (ATF). We documented six very likely large earthquakes that potentially ruptured the Aksay section of the ATF. Employing a Bayesian approach, we present modeled date ranges of 6339–5220 BC, 5296–4563 BC, 3026–2677 BC, 1324–808 BC, 314–632 AD, and 915–1300 AD. The mean recurrence time is 1,329 ± 588 years with a coefficient of variation (COV) of ∼0.44. In the same fault section, 90 horizontal offsets record an average coseismic slip of 5.1 ± 1.4 m for the last event and suggest four older earthquakes plausibly with a similar slip distribution. Although at the local‐scale the COV indicates quasi‐periodic rupture behavior, the individual interevent times exhibit significant irregularity, a pattern also observed in adjacent fault sections (Xorxoli, Annanba and Tashi sections). We found that such irregularities are a natural consequence of long‐term fault interactions, which allow for synchronized ruptures along the northern and southern strands of the central‐eastern ATF. Our rupture model highlights bursty periods of seismic activity with mean interevent times of 475 ± 108 years separated by long‐lull periods of 1.1–1.6 kyr. Based on this temporal organization and considering the 401‐year elapsed time since the most recent event on the Xorxoli section, there exists a possibility of a forthcoming large earthquake occurring within the next century.
A Stability Analysis of Neural Networks and Its Application to Tsunami Early Warning
Authors: Rim Donsub , Suri Sanah , Hong Sanghyun , Lee Kookjin , LeVeque Randall J.
Published: December 2024

Neural networks (NNs) enable precise modeling of complicated geophysical phenomena but can be sensitive to small input changes. In this work, we present a new method for analyzing this instability in NNs. We focus our analysis on adversarial examples, test‐time inputs with carefully crafted human‐imperceptible perturbations that expose the worst‐case instability in a model's predictions. Our stability analysis is based on a low‐rank expansion of NNs on a fixed input, and we apply our analysis to a NN model for tsunami early warning which takes geodetic measurements as the input and forecasts tsunami waveforms. The result is an improved description of local stability that explains adversarial examples generated by a standard gradient‐based algorithm, and allows the generation of other comparable examples. Our analysis can predict whether noise in the geodetic input will produce an unstable output, and identifies a potential approach to filtering the input that enable more robust forecasting.
Efficient Storage of Embedded Element Patterns for Low Frequency Radio Telescopes
Authors: Davidson David B. , Sutinjo Adrian T.
Published: December 2024

The use of spherical modes offers an efficient solution for storing embedded element patterns with significant angular structure for large scale arrays, such as the Square Kilometer Array (SKA)‐Low radio telescope. These patterns are required for calibration of the numerous stations comprising the telescope, each containing several hundred elements, and operating over a 7:1 bandwidth. However, implementation is significantly complicated by the many differences in the notation used in the literature for the Legendre special functions. The differing phasor conventions used in electrical engineering and physics further complicate this. This paper synthesizes much of the existing literature on this topic, paying special attention to these issues. Mathematical implementation issues are also addressed. A number of suitable tests using canonical dipole radiators to verify correct implementation are outlined. The paper concludes with tests on an individual SKALA4 antenna and a full‐scale SKA‐Low prototype station comprising 256 of these antennas. The storage saving afforded is some three orders of magnitude; this is very significant for a full SKA‐Low station. Supporting material summarizes differing formulations and conventions encountered in the literature.
From placenta to the foetus: a systematic review of in vitro models of stress- and inflammation-induced depression in pregnancy
Authors: Kirkpatrick Madeline , Mandal Gargi , Elhadidy Ismail , Mariani Nicole , Priestley Kristi , Pariante Carmine M. , Borsini Alessandra
Published: December 2024

Background

Depression in pregnancy can increase vulnerability for psychiatric disorders in the offspring, likely via the transfer of heightened maternal cortisol and cytokines to the in-utero environment. However, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms, are largely unclear. Animal studies can represent this complex pathophysiology at a systemic level but are expensive and ethically challenging. While simpler, in vitro models offer high-throughput opportunities. Therefore, this systematic review integrates findings of in vitro models relevant to depression in pregnancy, to generate novel hypotheses and targets for intervention.

Methods

The systematic analysis covered studies investigating glucocorticoid or cytokine challenges on placental or foetal neural progenitor cells (NPCs), with or without co-treatment with sex hormones.

Results

Of the 50 included studies, 11 used placental cells and 39 NPCs; surprisingly, only one used a combination of oestrogen and cortisol, and no study combined placental cells and NPCs. In placental cells, cortisol or cytokines decreased nutrient transporter expression and steroidogenic enzyme activity, and increased cytokine production. NPCs exhibited decreases in proliferation and differentiation, via specific molecular pathways, namely, inhibition of hedgehog signalling and activation of kynurenine pathway. In these cells, studies also highlighted epigenetic priming of stress and inflammatory pathways.

Conclusions

Overall, results suggest that stress and inflammation not only detrimentally impact placental regulation of nutrients and hormones to the foetus, but also activate downstream pathways through increased inflammation in the placenta, ultimately eliciting adverse effects on foetal neurogenesis. Future research should investigate how sex hormones regulate these mechanisms, with the aim of developing targeted therapeutic approaches for depression in pregnancy.
The activation of the piriform cortex to lateral septum pathway during chronic social defeat stress is crucial for the induction of behavioral disturbance in mice
Authors: Okuda Yuki , Li Dongrui , Maruyama Yuzuki , Sonobe Hirokazu , Mano Tomoyuki , Tainaka Kazuki , Shinohara Ryota , Furuyashiki Tomoyuki
Published: December 2024

Chronic stress induces neural dysfunctions and risks mental illnesses. Clinical and preclinical studies have established the roles of brain regions underlying emotional and cognitive functions in stress and depression. However, neural pathways to perceive sensory stimuli as stress to cause behavioral disturbance remain unknown. Using whole-brain imaging of Arc-dVenus neuronal response reporter mice and machine learning analysis, here we unbiasedly demonstrated different patterns of contribution of widely distributed brain regions to neural responses to acute and chronic social defeat stress (SDS). Among these brain regions, multiple sensory cortices, especially the piriform (olfactory) cortex, primarily contributed to classifying neural responses to chronic SDS. Indeed, SDS-induced activation of the piriform cortex was augmented with repetition of SDS, accompanied by impaired odor discrimination. Axonal tracing and chemogenetic manipulation showed that excitatory neurons in the piriform cortex directly project to the lateral septum and activate it in response to chronic SDS, thereby inducing behavioral disturbance. These results pave the way for identifying a spatially defined sequence of neural consequences of stress and the roles of sensory pathways in perceiving chronic stress in mental illness pathology.
Single versus tandem autologous stem cell transplantation in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Grieb Nora , Oeser Alexander , Ferle Maximilian , Hanke Franziska , Flossdorf Sarah , Sauer Sandra , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Salwender Hans-Jürgen , Fenk Roland , Engelhardt Monika , Zeiser Robert , Vucinic Vladan , Franke Georg-Nikolaus , Blau Igor Wolfgang , Teschner Daniel , Einsele Hermann , Kimmich Christoph , Kull Miriam , Besemer Britta , Gagelmann Nico , Kröger Nicolaus , Neumuth Thomas , Platzbecker Uwe , Merz Maximilian ,   on behalf of the German Registry for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cell Therapy (DRST)
Published: December 2024

Identifying patients who may benefit from autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma is crucial, especially in the era of effective induction and consolidation strategies. We analyzed data from 12763 patients enrolled in the German Registry for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cell Therapy (DRST), distinguishing those who underwent single (n = 8736) or tandem ASCT (n = 4027) from 1998 to 2021. Our findings show that the median age at first ASCT increased over time, while the use of tandem ASCT declined. The shift in treatment practices coincided with higher rates of complete response (CR) post-induction therapy. Significantly improved overall survival and event-free survival over time were observed across all age groups, especially in older patients, but not in patients under 40. Tandem ASCT showed benefits for patients who did not achieve CR after initial ASCT. However, patients with ISS III and renal impairment had poorer outcomes with tandem ASCT. In conclusion, while ASCT remains an important anti-myeloma tool, careful patient selection for tandem ASCT is essential, particularly avoiding its use in patients with ISS III and renal impairment, older age, and those already achieving CR after initial ASCT.
Synthesis and two-dimensional ordering of asymmetrically polymer–brush–decorated cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Kinose Yuji , Fujimoto Seitaro , Sakakibara Keita , Tsujii Yoshinobu
Published: December 2024

Rod-shaped cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are typically obtained by hydrolyzing cellulose nanofibers bearing an formyl group at their reducing end. In this study, we prepare CNCs bearing densely grafted polymer brushes of different molecular weights (asymmetrically polymer-brush–decorated CNCs; aPB-CNCs). aPB-CNCs exhibit good dispersion in organic solvents and form a monolayer at the air/water interface. The compression of this monolayer induces a phase transition of a long polymer brush at the reducing end and a change in the orientation of the CNC core due to repulsive interactions. A CNC is identified as a key intermediate, possessing dormant moieties for reversible addition–fragmentation polymerization and atom transfer radical polymerization at the reducing end and other surfaces, respectively (bifunctional dormant CNC). This functional CNC facilitates the polymerization of a wide range of monomers and enables the synthesis of aPB-CNCs with diverse chemical properties. The developed synthetic route not only provides a basis for exploring the ordered structure of nanoparticles but is also useful for modifying the reducing ends of CNCs.
Nystagmus in infancy: causes, characteristics and main tools for diagnosis
Authors: Goldman Emanuel , Hendler Karen , Yahalom Claudia
Published: December 2024

Background

Nystagmus in infancy may occur as part of an ocular condition, a neurological disorder or be idiopathic. The objective of our study was to evaluate the main causes for nystagmus in infants aged 0–1 year, the accompanying clinical characteristics and the effectiveness of different diagnostic tests used for reaching definite diagnosis.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on medical records of infants who were seen at a tertiary hospital between 2016 and 2021. Clinical data were obtained including age at presentation, presence of strabismus, refractive errors, auxiliary tests performed to reach diagnosis, and initial versus final diagnosis.

Results

This study included 147 infants. The most common ocular pathology causing nystagmus was albinism followed by inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). Main tests that helped reach diagnosis included clinical examination, genetic testing and electroretinogram (ERG). Vertical nystagmus was seen in 8/147 infants; among them 4 had an IRD as a final diagnosis. The most common associated clinical characteristics were high hypermetropia and strabismus.

Conclusions

The most common causes for nystagmus during the first year of age were albinism and IRDs. The most useful diagnostic tests to reach diagnosis were ERG together with genetic testing for IRDs and clinical ophthalmologic examination for albinism. IRDs play an important role as the cause for nystagmus in infants; this diagnosis can be often missed during the first months of life and a vertical nystagmus wave is commonly observed in this group. Nystagmus secondary to a neurologic condition is rare in this age group.
RNA language models predict mutations that improve RNA function
Authors: Shulgina Yekaterina , Trinidad Marena I. , Langeberg Conner J. , Nisonoff Hunter , Chithrananda Seyone , Skopintsev Petr , Nissley Amos J. , Patel Jaymin , Boger Ron S. , Shi Honglue , Yoon Peter H. , Doherty Erin E. , Pande Tara , Iyer Aditya M. , Doudna Jennifer A. , Cate Jamie H. D.
Published: December 2024

Structured RNA lies at the heart of many central biological processes, from gene expression to catalysis. RNA structure prediction is not yet possible due to a lack of high-quality reference data associated with organismal phenotypes that could inform RNA function. We present GARNET (Gtdb Acquired RNa with Environmental Temperatures), a new database for RNA structural and functional analysis anchored to the Genome Taxonomy Database (GTDB). GARNET links RNA sequences to experimental and predicted optimal growth temperatures of GTDB reference organisms. Using GARNET, we develop sequence- and structure-aware RNA generative models, with overlapping triplet tokenization providing optimal encoding for a GPT-like model. Leveraging hyperthermophilic RNAs in GARNET and these RNA generative models, we identify mutations in ribosomal RNA that confer increased thermostability to the Escherichia coli ribosome. The GTDB-derived data and deep learning models presented here provide a foundation for understanding the connections between RNA sequence, structure, and function.
NiCo identifies extrinsic drivers of cell state modulation by niche covariation analysis
Authors: Agrawal Ankit , Thomann Stefan , Basu Sukanya , Grün Dominic
Published: December 2024

Cell states are modulated by intrinsic driving forces such as gene expression noise and extrinsic signals from the tissue microenvironment. The distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic cell state determinants is essential for understanding the regulation of cell fate in tissues during development, homeostasis and disease. The rapidly growing availability of single-cell resolution spatial transcriptomics makes it possible to meet this challenge. However, available computational methods to infer topological tissue domains, spatially variable genes, or ligand-receptor interactions are limited in their capacity to capture cell state changes driven by crosstalk between individual cell types within the same niche. We present NiCo, a computational framework for integrating single-cell resolution spatial transcriptomics with matched single-cell RNA-sequencing reference data to infer the influence of the spatial niche on the cell state. By applying NiCo to mouse embryogenesis, adult small intestine and liver data, we demonstrate the ability to predict novel niche interactions that govern cell state variation underlying tissue development and homeostasis. In particular, NiCo predicts a feedback mechanism between Kupffer cells and neighboring stellate cells dampening stellate cell activation in the normal liver. NiCo provides a powerful tool to elucidate tissue architecture and to identify drivers of cellular states in local niches.
Insights into self-evaluated stress, anxiety, and depression among dental students
Authors: Rotaru Doina Iulia , Chisnoiu Radu Marcel , Bolboacă Sorana D. , Gileru Edith Ana , Chisnoiu Andrea Maria , Delean Ada Gabriela
Published: December 2024

Stress, anxiety, and depression have a negative impact on students’ learning and academic performances. In our longitudinal study conducted on dental students from Cluj-Napoca and Oradea, the most representative university centers in north-west of Romania, we evaluated the prevalence and effect of exams on stress, anxiety, and depression, in association with socio-demographic factors. The students self-administered the DASS-21R questionnaire at the beginning of the academic year 2022–2023, before the Christmas holiday, during the winter session, and after the winter session. Students from Cluj-Napoca had higher stress scores at the beginning of the academic year compared to those from Oradea (6.8% vs. 3.7%, P-value < 0.05), especially the females and students with no previous university graduations. Anxiety and depression were significantly more frequently reported by students who study in Cluj-Napoca compared to those who study in Oradea (anxiety 37% vs. 28.2%, P-value < 0.05; depression 17% vs. 11%, P-value < 0.05). We did not observe any significant differences in DASS-21R scores regarding summer jobs, foreign language knowledge, or monthly income. Our results support the needs for interventions regarding stress, anxiety, and depression implemented from the very beginning of university studies and, along with strategies for stress prevention and management of these conditions.
Evolution of sequence, structural and functional diversity of the ubiquitous DNA/RNA-binding Alba domain
Authors: Jagadeesh Jaiganesh , Vembar Shruthi Sridhar
Published: December 2024

The DNA/RNA-binding Alba domain is prevalent across all kingdoms of life. First discovered in archaea, this protein domain has evolved from RNA- to DNA-binding, with a concomitant expansion in the range of cellular processes that it regulates. Despite its widespread presence, the full extent of its sequence, structural, and functional diversity remains unexplored. In this study, we employed iterative searches in PSI-BLAST to identify 15,161 unique Alba domain-containing proteins from the NCBI non-redundant protein database. Sequence similarity network (SSN) analysis clustered them into 13 distinct subgroups, including the archaeal Alba and eukaryotic Rpp20/Pop7 and Rpp25/Pop6 groups, as well as novel fungal and Plasmodium-specific Albas. Sequence and structural conservation analysis of the subgroups indicated high preservation of the dimer interface, with Alba domains from unicellular eukaryotes notably exhibiting structural deviations towards their C-terminal end. Finally, phylogenetic analysis, while supporting SSN clustering, revealed the evolutionary branchpoint at which the eukaryotic Rpp20- and Rpp25-like clades emerged from archaeal Albas, and the subsequent taxonomic lineage-based divergence within each clade. Taken together, this comprehensive analysis enhances our understanding of the evolutionary history of Alba domain-containing proteins across diverse organisms.
Neural network representations of multiphase Equations of State
Authors: Kevrekidis George A. , Serino Daniel A. , Kaltenborn M. Alexander R. , Gammel J. Tinka , Burby Joshua W. , Klasky Marc L.
Published: December 2024

Equations of State model relations between thermodynamic variables and are ubiquitous in scientific modelling, appearing in modern day applications ranging from Astrophysics to Climate Science. The three desired properties of a general Equation of State model are adherence to the Laws of Thermodynamics, incorporation of phase transitions, and multiscale accuracy. Analytic models that adhere to all three are hard to develop and cumbersome to work with, often resulting in sacrificing one of these elements for the sake of efficiency. In this work, two deep-learning methods are proposed that provably satisfy the first and second conditions on a large-enough region of thermodynamic variable space. The first is based on learning the generating function (thermodynamic potential) while the second is based on structure-preserving, symplectic neural networks, respectively allowing modifications near or on phase transition regions. They can be used either “from scratch” to learn a full Equation of State, or in conjunction with a pre-existing consistent model, functioning as a modification that better adheres to experimental data. We formulate the theory and provide several computational examples to justify both approaches, highlighting their advantages and shortcomings.
Expression of concern: Comparison of photo- and Cu(i)-catalyzed “click” chemistries for the formation of carbohydrate SPR interfaces
Authors: Maalouli Nazek , Barras Alexandre , Siriwardena Aloysius , Bouazaoui Mohamed , Boukherroub Rabah , Szunerits Sabine
Published: December 2024

Expression of concern for ‘Comparison of photo- and Cu(i)-catalyzed “click” chemistries for the formation of carbohydrate SPR interfaces’ by Nazek Maalouli et al., Analyst, 2013, 138, 805–812, https://doi.org/10.1039/C2AN36272D.
Practical synthesis of C-aryl glycosides via redox-neutral Borono–Catellani reaction
Authors: Xu Dekang , Li Xia , Cui Ziyang , Cao Liming , Cheng Hong-Gang , Zhou Qianghui
Published: December 2024

A redox-neutral C–H glycosylation method to access a diverse array of (hetero)aryl glycosides via palladium/norbornene (Pd/NBE) cooperative catalysis was disclosed.
On the mechanisms of ethane dehydrogenation on silica-supported mononuclear Fe
Authors: Satyanand Sakshi , Srinivas Sanjana , Vlachos Dionisios G. , Caratzoulas Stavros
Published: December 2024

We explore ethane dehydrogenation over Fe(ii) and Fe(iii) sites on amorphous SiO2. Ethane dehydrogenation occurs through a heterolytic cleavage mechanism over Fe(ii), and a redox mechanism over Fe(iii) with lower energetic barrier.
Direct conversion of syngas to aromatics via a two-stage C–C coupling over MnZr/HZSM-5 bifunctional catalysts employing OX-ZEO strategy
Authors: Liu Shiyu , Huang Qiuyun , Haq Ijaz Ul , Yang Zixu , Shen Weihua , Fang Yunjin
Published: December 2024

The surface C–C coupling between the adsorbed alkyl groups and surface formate group shortens the CO activation pathway and triggers an oxygenated cycle in the OX-ZEO strategy.
Deciphering the direct heterometallic interaction in κ3-bis(donor)ferrocenyl-transition-metal complexes
Authors: Bartek Máté , Makkos Eszter , Kelemen Zsolt
Published: December 2024

The metal–metal interaction in κ3-bis(donor)ferrocenyl–transition-metal complexes has been known for a while; however, the quantification of its strength remains uncertain. We have systematically investigated the nature of this heterometallic bond.
Rational catalyst layer design enables tailored transport channels for efficient CO2 electrochemical reduction to multi-carbon products
Authors: Sun Jiping , Wu Bichao , Wang Zhixing , Guo Huajun , Yan Guochun , Duan Hui , Li Guangchao , Wang Ying , Wang Jiexi
Published: December 2024

CO2 and H2O channels are incorporated into the catalyst layer network to benefit the micro-environment in MEA. Through rational catalyst layer design, CO2-to-C2+ performance is substantially enhanced.
Coupling of indium clusters with atomic Fe–N4 on carbon for long-term rechargeable Zn–air batteries
Authors: Shu Xinxin , Cao Xueying , He Bowen , Chen Xunyi , Zhao Lanling , Yang Chengdong , Ma Jizhen , Zhang Jintao
Published: December 2024

Carbon matrix-supported indium clusters, in conjunction with iron–nitrogen–carbon active sites exhibit superior bifunctional electrocatalytic activity for both the ORR and OER.
Thermal-stimulated spin disordering accelerates water electrolysis
Authors: Xie Fakang , Du Yu , Lu Mengfei , Yan Shicheng , Zou Zhigang
Published: December 2024

The thermal-stimulated paramagnetic interface is a potential route to reduce electrons scattering from local magnetic moments in anti-ferromagnetic materials.
N-heterocyclic nitrenium-catalyzed photosynthesis of 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles from α-chloroanilides
Authors: Chen Kun-Quan , Zhang Jia , Sun De-Qun , Liu Qiang , Chen Xiang-Yu
Published: December 2024

A photoinduced N-heterocyclic nitrenium-catalyzed strategy for the synthesis of 3,3-oxindoles from α-chloroanilides under transition-metal-free conditions was reported.
AlEt3-catalyzed synthesis of circularly polarized luminescence active aggregation-induced emission helical polyisocyanides
Authors: Li He , Yu Beiming , Li Yufan , Li Jiaojiao , Zheng Jie , Zhi Junge , Li Xiaofang
Published: December 2024

The simple and highly efficient synthesis of CPL-active AIE helical polyisocyanides has been successfully realized through AlEt3-catalyzed asymmetric polymerization and copolymerization of bifunctional AIE chiral aryl isocyanides.
Mechanism and modelling of thermally initiated RAFT step-growth polymerization
Authors: Clouthier Samantha Marie , Tanaka Joji , You Wei
Published: December 2024

Here we report the modelling of thermally initiated RAFT step-growth polymerization kinetics of maleimide and acrylate monomers with bifunctional RAFT agents bearing tertiary carboxyalkyl-stabilized fragmentable R groups.
Investigation of a flexible, room-temperature fiber-shaped NH3 sensor based on PANI–Au–SnO2
Authors: Wang Qiuning , Peng Yuan , Guo Bin , Sun Jianhai , Liu Yaxia , Wang Yanjun , Zhang Hongyan
Published: December 2024

The fiber-shaped ammonia sensor fabricated using the PANI–Au–SnO2 composite as the sensing material exhibits strong sensitivity to ammonia at room temperature.
Cu–Ag interactions in bimetallic Cu–Ag catalysts enhance C2+ product formation during electrochemical CO reduction
Authors: Rollier Floriane A. , Muravev Valery , Kosinov Nikolay , Wissink Tim , Anastasiadou Dimitra , Ligt Bianca , Barthe Laurent , Costa Figueiredo Marta , Hensen Emiel J. M.
Published: December 2024

The interactions between Cu and Ag, such as in Cu–Ag nanoalloys, are crucial to enhance the selectivity to C2+ products in the electroreduction of CO (CORR).
Regulation of ligand-induced solvation structure for stable aqueous Zn-ion batteries
Authors: Ma Yan , Zhao Shu-Peng , Xu Yanan , Tang Lingyu , Zhang Yu , Luo Yan-Long , Li Cheng-Hui
Published: December 2024

We have screened out an efficient ligand additive PDM to regulate Zn2+ solvation structure. By loading a trace amount of PDM, the electrochemical performance of both anode and cathode were significantly improved.
A flexible piezoelectric sensor based on a piezoelectric composite film with high sensitivity and excellent thermal stability for multi-scenario applications
Authors: Li Chungang , Yang Changhong , Zhao Yaoting , Dong Gensheng , Lin Xiujuan , Huang Shifeng
Published: December 2024

The high-temperature flexible composite film consists of BS–PT–SBT piezoelectric ceramic particles and PI matrix. It shows a high sensitivity of 6.56 V N−1, and can further serve as a functional component in multi-scenario sensing applications.
Superdiffusion of energetic particles at shocks: A Lévy flight model for acceleration
Authors: Aerdker Sophie , Merten Lukas , Effenberger Frederic , Fichtner Horst , Becker Tjus Julia
Published: December 2024

Context. In the heliosphere, power-law particle distributions are observed, for example, upstream of interplanetary shocks, which can result from superdiffusive transport. This non-Gaussian transport regime may be due to intermittent magnetic field structures. Recently, we have shown that a Lévy flight model reproduces the observed features at shocks: power-law distributions upstream of the shock and enhanced intensities at the shock.

Aims. In this work, we extend the Lévy flight model to study the impact of superdiffusive transport on particle acceleration at shocks. We compared the acceleration timescale and spectral slope to Gaussian diffusion and a Lévy walk model.

Methods. We solved the fractional transport equation by sampling the number density with the corresponding stochastic differential equation that is driven by an alpha-stable Lévy distribution. For both Gaussian and superdiffusive transport, we used a modified version of the cosmic ray propagation framework CRPropa 3.2.

Results. We obtained the number density and energy spectra for constant and energy-dependent anomalous diffusion, and we find, compared to the case of Gaussian diffusion, harder energy spectra at the shock as well as faster acceleration. The spectral slope is even harder than predicted for Lévy walks.

Conclusions Lévy flight models of superdiffusive transport lead to observed features in the heliosphere. We further show that superdiffusive transport impacts the acceleration process by changing the probability of escaping the shock. The flexibility of the Lévy flight model allows for further studies in the future that can take the shock geometry and magnetic field structure into account.
Retroverted Uterus in the First Trimester and Associated Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Schneider Emily R. , Kantorowska Agata , Clough Joanna M. , Miller Erin L. , Kobara Emmanuella , Brite Jasmine , Akerman Meredith L. , Kinzler Wendy L. , Suhag Anju , Chavez Martin R. , Rekawek Patricia
Published: December 2024

Objective This study aimed to investigate if retroverted (RV) uterus noted on nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound is associated with second-trimester pregnancy loss and other adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Study Design This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with RV uterus documented on NT ultrasound at a single academic medical center from October 2019 to March 2023. Subjects were identified using a query for “retroverted” uterine position within an obstetric ultrasound imaging program. For each RV case, two anteverted (AV) subjects were selected for comparison. Patients with multiple gestation, Mullerian anomalies, or fetal aneuploidy were excluded. Maternal demographics, obstetric, and neonatal outcomes were obtained by chart review. Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney test were used for categorical and continuous variables, respectively, with p-value <0.05 denoting significance. Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for possible confounding variables.

Results Analysis included 249 patients—83 RV and 166 AV. RV patients were more likely to identify as Caucasian (71.1 vs. 49.4%, p = 0.001), have private insurance (80.7 vs. 59.4%, p = 0.001), lower body mass index (25.4 ± 5.1 vs 29.1 ± 7.2, p < 0.001), and conceive by in vitro fertilization (IVF, 11 vs. 3%, p = 0.018). Most RV subjects (98%) had a resolution of retroversion by the second trimester. There was no difference in second-trimester pregnancy loss (0 vs. 1.2%, p = 0.55). After adjusting for race and IVF, RV subjects were four times more likely to have first-trimester vaginal bleeding (16.9 vs. 4.2%, odds ratio = 4.1, p = 0.0056). No other differences in adverse outcomes were observed.

Conclusion Persistent RV uterus in the first trimester is associated with increased risk of first-trimester vaginal bleeding. However, rates of pregnancy loss were similar between groups, providing valuable information for patient counseling. Significantly more RV subjects conceived by IVF, highlighting the need for further study in this population.

Key Points
Contralateral Expansion of Hemorrhagic Contusion in Patients Undergoing Decompressive Craniectomy: A Series of Two Patients
Authors: Gupta Pragya , Shukla Ashutosh , Ranjan Nitish , Singh Mayank , Maurya Ved Prakash
Published: December 2024

Contralateral formation and expansion of hemorrhagic contusion is a significant and rare complication following decompressive craniectomy. Decompressive craniectomy is an important surgical tool for management of raised intracranial hypertension secondary to various pathologies including trauma. These uncommon events are reported in the literature along substantive explanations and theories. We present two cases of road traffic accident (RTA) who following decompressive craniectomy developed expansion of contralateral hematoma. In this article, we are focus on the appearance and expansion of contralateral intraparenchymal contusion following decompressive craniectomy with a deep dive into the existing literature.
Multilingualism from the perspective of the medieval Islamic vision of language
Authors: Salvaggio Federico
Published: December 2024

Arabic holds a cardinal position within Islamic civilisation, where it enjoys the status of sacred language for its direct connection to the Revelation and for the role attributed to it by the Revelation itself. However, not only does the Qur’an mention the existence of other languages and put them in relation with different divine messages, but also the providential nature of language diversity is explicitly maintained by the Holy Book of Islam. This theology of multilingualism represented the theoretical and symbolic framework within which the premodern Islamic world conceptualized language diversity. By looking at the works of philosophers, historians, poets, and religious masters from different parts of the Islamic world, we will try to understand how premodern authors viewed multilingualism, explained the existence of different languages, and accordingly engaged in plurilingual practices. Plurilingual practices provided the fertile ground on which various vernaculars, often bereft of any former written tradition (let alone literary prestige), could be transformed into full-fledged literary languages and become part of the wide Islamic language family. This process of incorporation of the multiple languages, encountered by the Islamic civilisation in its expansion, gave rise, throughout the Islamic world, to complex multilingual societies where individuals were frequently plurilingual and able to accommodate language diversity in flexible, creative, and, as reflected in literary productions, even aesthetic ways. In some cases, like the Andalusian context, such linguistic incorporation even involved romance vernaculars with significant consequences for their destiny as future modern European literary languages.
Data-assimilated crystal growth simulation for multiple crystalline phases
Authors: Kubo Yuuki , Sato Ryuhei , Zhao Yuansheng , Ishikawa Takahiro , Tsuneyuki Shinji
Published: December 2024

To determine crystal structures from a powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD) pattern containing multiple unknown phases, a data-assimilated crystal growth (DACG) simulation method has been developed. The PXRD penalty function selectively stabilizes the structures in the experimental data, promoting their grain growth during simulated annealing. Since the PXRD pattern is calculated as the Fourier transform of the pair distribution function, the DACG simulation can be performed without prior determination of the lattice parameters. We applied it to carbon (graphite and diamond) and SiO2 (low-quartz, low-cristobalite, and coesite) systems, demonstrating that the DACG simulation successfully reproduced multiple crystal structures.
Effects of upper pier design and geometry on the local scour of skirted caisson with two tandem piers
Authors: Qiu Fang , Wei Kai , Tong Ke , Hu Zhenchen , Yao Changrong , Qin Jingxi
Published: December 2024

Local scour induced by strong currents has become one of the major challenges for sea-crossing bridges built for the convenience of transportation across bays. To mitigate the local scour of the sea-crossing bridge foundation, this study optimized the design and geometry of the upper part of the skirted caisson and proposed a new type of foundation called the skirted caisson with two tandem piers (SCTTP). Systematic experimental and numerical investigations into the influence of the design parameters of SCTTPs on scour protection were conducted, and the temporal development and mechanism of local scour in SCTTPs were investigated. The following conclusions can be drawn: (1) although the scour of the SCTTP is slightly greater than that of the skirted caisson, the scour terrain of the SCTTP is more stable; (2) the scour of the SCTTP with circular piers is small, and the flat surfaces of semicircular-ended and square piers can intensify the scour; (3) the scour at the front and back of the SCTTP gradually becomes independent of the distance between the two piers, causing the total scour of the SCTTP to increase; and (4) as the width of the tie beam decreases, the scour of the SCTTP with the groove becomes more significant than that of the SCTTP with no groove, but the groove depth has little effect on the maximum scour depth of the SCTTP with the groove. These findings provide insight into the design optimization of SCTTPs from scour.