bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zur Effektivität der Mathematikförderung nach dem Response to Intervention-Ansatz
Authors: Mahlau Kathrin
Published: January 2025

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Die Wirksamkeit von Response to Intervention (RtI)-Konzeptionen ist international belegt. Im deutschsprachigen Raum gibt es dazu jedoch ein erhebliches Desiderat. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war es, zu prüfen, ob eine Gruppe, die im ersten Schuljahr nach dem RtI-Modell unterrichtet wurde, im Vergleich zu einer unbehandelten Kontrollgruppe höhere mathematische Leistungen erbringt, und ob sich Subgruppen mit unterschiedlichen mathematischen Lernvoraussetzungen – differenziert nach fünf Leistungskategorien – in ihrer Entwicklung unterscheiden. Methode: Die Untersuchung erfolgte im Kontrollgruppendesign über zwei Messzeitpunkte zu Beginn und zum Ende des ersten Schuljahres. Mittels ANCOVA wurde geprüft, ob Unterschiede im Mathematiklernen zwischen den Gesamtgruppen vorliegen. Mittels Mann-Whitney-U-Test für unabhängige Stichproben erfolgte die Berechnung, ob zwischen den kategorialen Gruppen Unterschiede bestehen. Ergebnisse: Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass in den Gesamtgruppen keine Unterschiede vorliegen und auch in den nach Lernvoraussetzung gebildeten Gruppen lediglich die Kinder mit weit unterdurchschnittlichen Lernvoraussetzungen eine signifikant bessere Entwicklung im RtI-System vollziehen. Die anderen kategorialen Gruppen unterschieden sich nicht bzw. zugunsten der Vergleichsgruppe. Diskussion: Forschung zum und Umsetzung des RtI-System(s) sollte im deutschen Schulsystem deutlich weiterentwickelt werden, um sein Potential auszuschöpfen.
The Addition of Felsic Sediments to the Lower Continental Crust During the Variscan Orogeny
Authors: Ringwood M. F. , Ortner S. E. , Rudnick R. L.
Published: January 2025

Lower crustal metasedimentary xenoliths (garnet‐sillimanite granulites) from the Bournac breccia pipe in the Massif Central, France, provide a robust example of sediments transported to depth and incorporated into stable lower continental crust during a collisional orogeny. Dates for detrital igneous zircon range from the Archean (up to 3,300 Ma) to the Devonian and record sedimentation prior to the onset of the collisional phase of the Variscan orogeny. Metamorphic zircon and monazite document the presence of the metasediments in the lower crust by ca. 330 Ma during the later phase of Variscan collision. Zircon and monazite crystallization continued within the lower crust until ca. 265 Ma, corresponding to a period of slow cooling following an episode of ultra‐high temperature (UHT) metamorphism that peaked at 313 Ma. Zr‐in‐rutile thermometry and GASP barometry applied to these samples record conditions of 0.63–0.77 GPa and 830–910°C, which correspond to Ti‐in‐zircon temperatures from the latter part of the Variscan orogeny and geotherms in excess of typical continent‐continent collisions. Rutile in these samples remained open to Pb loss until their eruption at ca. 11.6 Ma, providing an indirect date of the Bournac eruption. These rocks record the incorporation of felsic sedimentary material into the stable deep continental crust during a collisional orogen and their residence there for over 300 Ma. More broadly, the addition of sediments to stable lower crust contributes to changes in crustal composition and has significant implications for the heterogeneity of the deep continental crust, as well as overall crustal heat production and mantle heat flow.
Positioning the North China Block (NCB) in the Cambrian: Constraints From the Integrated Bio‐, Chemo‐ and Magnetostratigraphy
Authors: Jiao Wenjun , Li Yong‐Xiang , Yang Zhenyu , Yang Aihua , Chen Xi , Hu Chunlin , Du Shengxian , Chen Jun
Published: January 2025

The Paleozoic paleogeographic and tectonic evolution of the North China Block (NCB) are poorly constrained due to the polarity ambiguity of its early Paleozoic paleopoles. Here we present magnetostratigraphic results of two upper Cambrian limestone‐dominated marine successions in the NCB that span the Steptoean positive carbon isotope excursion (SPICE), a global carbon‐cycle perturbation concomitant with trilobite extinctions. Stepwise thermal demagnetization reveals three‐component magnetizations with the high‐temperature component being a primary remanence as substantiated with paleomagnetic and rock magnetic analysis. A composite polarity sequence across the SPICE is established for the NCB and is correlated with coeval polarity sequence of Siberia, allowing to assign a reversed polarity for the NCB during the SPICE. This inter‐continental correlation, together with paleobiogeographic affinities, supports a southern hemispheric low‐latitude location adjacent to the west of East Gondwana for the NCB during the late Cambrian, thus constraining further paleogeographic‐tectonic reconstructions around East Gondwana during the Paleozoic.
Optoelectronic array of photodiodes integrated with RRAMs for energy-efficient in-sensor computing
Authors: Pan Wen , Wang Lai , Tang Jianshi , Huang Heyi , Hao Zhibiao , Sun Changzheng , Xiong Bing , Wang Jian , Han Yanjun , Li Hongtao , Gan Lin , Luo Yi
Published: January 2025

The rapid development of internet of things (IoT) urgently needs edge miniaturized computing devices with high efficiency and low-power consumption. In-sensor computing has emerged as a promising technology to enable in-situ data processing within the sensor array. Here, we report an optoelectronic array for in-sensor computing by integrating photodiodes (PDs) with resistive random-access memories (RRAMs). The PD-RRAM unit cell exhibits reconfigurable optoelectronic output and photo-responsivity by programming RRAMs into different resistance states. Furthermore, a 3 × 3 PD-RRAM array is fabricated to demonstrate optical image recognition, achieving a universal architecture with ultralow latency and low power consumption. This study highlights the great potential of the PD-RRAM optoelectronic array as an energy-efficient in-sensor computing primitive for future IoT applications.
Macular, choroidal and disc associations across women’s reproductive life stages: a scoping review from menarche to post-menopause
Authors: Ribeiro Reis Ana Paula , Ioannidou Estelle , Stuart Kelsey V. , Wagner Siegfried K. , Foster Paul J. , Khawaja Anthony P. , Petzold Axel , Sivaprasad Sobha , Pontikos Nikolas , Keane Pearse A. , Balaskas Konstantinos , Patel Praveen J.
Published: January 2025

Oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate cyclically in women throughout their adult lives. Although these hormones cross the blood-retinal barrier and bind to intraocular receptors, their effects remain unclear. We present the first review to date on associations between posterior pole structures—specifically the macula, choroid, and optic disc—and both the menstrual cycle and post-menopausal period, utilising multimodal imaging techniques in healthy adult non-pregnant women. We excluded studies on contraception and hormonal replacement therapy, focusing solely on physiological associations. Despite the comprehensive scope of our review, limited data and inconsistent reporting among studies prevented the establishment of meaningful trends. Across menstrual cycle phases, choroidal thickness (CHT) was the most consistently reported parameter, with thinning during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase. Conversely, no significant differences were observed in macular or disc morphology across the cycle, likely reflecting a preserved structure despite potential fluctuations in blood flow and perfusion. Studies comparing pre- and post-menopausal associations, after adjusting for age or body mass index (BMI), failed to reveal meaningful trends, highlighting the difficulty in separating the effect of age from hormonal declines in older women. Understanding how hormonal cycles impact the posterior pole in women is crucial for addressing sex differences in various ocular pathologies. Research on female-specific factors is still sparse, and interestingly, the majority of affiliations in the reviewed articles did not originate from regions with the highest biomedical research funding and publication rates. We encourage further studies focusing on female-specific variables and provide recommendations for future designs.
Long-term memory plasticity in a decade-long connectivity study post anterior temporal lobe resection
Authors: Fleury Marine N. , Binding Lawrence P. , Taylor Peter , Xiao Fenglai , Giampiccolo Davide , Buck Sarah , Winston Gavin P. , Thompson Pamela J. , Baxendale Sallie , McEvoy Andrew W. , Koepp Matthias J. , Duncan John S. , Sidhu Meneka K.
Published: January 2025

Approximately 40% of individuals undergoing anterior temporal lobe resection for temporal lobe epilepsy experience episodic memory decline. There has been a focus on early memory network changes; longer-term plasticity and its impact on memory function are unclear. Our study investigates neural mechanisms of memory recovery and network plasticity over nearly a decade post-surgery. We assess memory network changes, from 3–12 months to 10 years postoperatively, in 25 patients (12 left-sided resections) relative to 10 healthy matched controls, using longitudinal task-based functional MRI and standard neuropsychology assessments. We observe key adaptive changes in memory networks of a predominantly seizure-free cohort. Ongoing neuroplasticity in posterior medial temporal regions and contralesional cingulum or pallidum contribute to long-term verbal and visual memory recovery. Here, we show the potential for sustained cognitive improvement and importance of strategic approaches in epilepsy treatment, advocating for conservative surgeries and long-term use of cognitive rehabilitation for ongoing recovery.
Herpesviruses mimic zygotic genome activation to promote viral replication
Authors: Neugebauer Eva , Walter Stephanie , Tan Jiang , Drayman Nir , Franke Vedran , van Gent Michiel , Pennisi Sandra , Veratti Pia , Stein Karla S. , Welker Isabelle , Tay Savaş , Verjans Georges M. G. M. , Timmers H. T. Marc , Akalin Altuna , Landthaler Markus , Ensser Armin , Wyler Emanuel , Full Florian
Published: January 2025

Zygotic genome activation (ZGA) is crucial for maternal to zygotic transition at the 2-8-cell stage in order to overcome silencing of genes and enable transcription from the zygotic genome. In humans, ZGA is induced by DUX4, a pioneer factor that drives expression of downstream germline-specific genes and retroelements. Here we show that herpesviruses from all subfamilies, papillomaviruses and Merkel cell polyomavirus actively induce DUX4 expression to promote viral transcription and replication. Analysis of single-cell sequencing data sets from patients shows that viral DUX4 activation is of relevance in vivo. Herpes-simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) immediate early proteins directly induce expression of DUX4 and its target genes, which mimics zygotic genome activation. Upon HSV-1 infection, DUX4 directly binds to the viral genome and promotes viral transcription. DUX4 is functionally required for infection, since genetic depletion by CRISPR/Cas9 as well as degradation of DUX4 by nanobody constructs abrogates HSV-1 replication. Our results show that DNA viruses including herpesviruses mimic an embryonic-like transcriptional program that prevents epigenetic silencing of the viral genome and facilitates herpesviral gene expression.
Two-layer homolog network approach for PFAS nontarget screening and retrospective data mining
Authors: Jiao Zhaoyu , Taniyasu Sachi , Yu Nanyang , Wang Xuebing , Yamashita Nobuyoshi , Wei Si
Published: January 2025

The rapid increase of novel per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) raises concerns, while their identification remains challenging. Here, we develop a two-layer homolog network approach for PFAS nontarget screening using mass spectrometry. The first layer constructs networks between homologs, with evaluation showing that it filters 94% of false candidates. The second layer builds a network between classes to expedite the identification of PFAS. We detected 94 PFAS in twelve waterproof products and two related industrial sludges, including 36 novel PFAS not previously reported in any sample. A local dataset is constructed for retrospective analysis by re-analyzing our previous samples, revealing fifteen novel PFAS in samples collected in 2005. The retrieval of the public database MassIVE uncovers novel PFAS in samples from seven countries. Here, we reveal the historic and global presence of novel PFAS, providing guidance for the management and policy-making concerning persistent chemicals.
A comprehensive assessment of current methods for measuring metacognition
Authors: Rahnev Dobromir
Published: January 2025

One of the most important aspects of research on metacognition is the measurement of metacognitive ability. However, the properties of existing measures of metacognition have been mostly assumed rather than empirically established. Here I perform a comprehensive empirical assessment of 17 measures of metacognition. First, I develop a method of determining the validity and precision of a measure of metacognition and find that all 17 measures are valid and most show similar levels of precision. Second, I examine how measures of metacognition depend on task performance, response bias, and metacognitive bias, finding only weak dependences on response and metacognitive bias but many strong dependencies on task performance. Third, I find that all measures have very high split-half reliabilities, but most have poor test-retest reliabilities. This comprehensive assessment paints a complex picture: no measure of metacognition is perfect and different measures may be preferable in different experimental contexts.
Digital twin assisted surgery, concept, opportunities, and challenges
Authors: Asciak Lisa , Kyeremeh Justicia , Luo Xichun , Kazakidi Asimina , Connolly Patricia , Picard Frederic , O’Neill Kevin , Tsaftaris Sotirios A. , Stewart Grant D. , Shu Wenmiao
Published: January 2025

Computer-assisted surgery is becoming essential in modern medicine to accurately plan, guide, and perform surgeries. Similarly, Digital Twin technology is expected to be instrumental in the future of surgery, owing to its capacity to virtually replicate patient-specific interventions whilst providing real-time updates to clinicians. This perspective introduces the term Digital Twin-Assisted Surgery and discusses its potential to improve surgical precision and outcome, along with key challenges for successful clinical translation.
A novel human fetal lung-derived alveolar organoid model reveals mechanisms of surfactant protein C maturation relevant to interstitial lung disease
Authors: Lim Kyungtae , Rutherford Eimear N , Delpiano Livia , He Peng , Lin Weimin , Sun Dawei , Van den Boomen Dick J H , Edgar James R , Bang Jae Hak , Predeus Alexander , Teichmann Sarah A , Marioni John C , Matesic Lydia E , Lee Joo-Hyeon , Lehner Paul J , Marciniak Stefan J , Rawlins Emma L , Dickens Jennifer A
Published: January 2025

Alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells maintain lung health by acting as stem cells and producing pulmonary surfactant. AT2 dysfunction underlies many lung diseases, including interstitial lung disease (ILD), in which some inherited forms result from the mislocalization of surfactant protein C (SFTPC) variants. Lung disease modeling and dissection of the underlying mechanisms remain challenging due to complexities in deriving and maintaining human AT2 cells ex vivo. Here, we describe the development of mature, expandable AT2 organoids derived from human fetal lungs which are phenotypically stable, can differentiate into AT1-like cells, and are genetically manipulable. We use these organoids to test key effectors of SFTPC maturation identified in a forward genetic screen including the E3 ligase ITCH, demonstrating that their depletion phenocopies the pathological SFTPC redistribution seen for the SFTPC-I73T variant. In summary, we demonstrate the development of a novel alveolar organoid model and use it to identify effectors of SFTPC maturation necessary for AT2 health.
Hydrogenation of CO2 to formic acid over a non-precious metal-based polymeric catalyst
Authors: Dabas Shilpa , Barik Manas , Rathour Parul , Biradar Ankush V. , Subramanian Saravanan
Published: January 2025

Iron-loaded heterogeneous polymeric catalyst demonstrated good activity toward CO2 hydrogenation reaction with high TON. The simple catalyst with the designed local functionalities enhances the iron binding and thereby the catalytic performance.
A photoswitchable [2]catenane receptor
Authors: de Jong Jorn , Siegler Maxime A. , Wezenberg Sander J.
Published: January 2025

Photoisomerization of a [2]catenane-based receptor functionalized with stiff-stilbene allows for on demand uptake and release of chloride ions.
The enhancement of Li-ion conductivity in 2D metalloid organic frameworks via nodal element substitution
Authors: Liang Lisha , Wang Yan , Ashraf Shumaila , Li Pengfei
Published: January 2025

Nodal element substitution significantly improved the ion conductivity of metal–organic frameworks.
Universal kinetic description for the thermal dehydration of sodium carbonate monohydrate powder across different temperatures and water vapor pressures
Authors: Fukunaga Shunsuke , Zushi Yuto , Hotta Mito , Koga Nobuyoshi
Published: January 2025

The strategy for a universal kinetic description of the reversible thermal decomposition of solids was demonstrated through an exemplification of the thermal dehydration of sodium carbonate monohydrate.
ZIF-8 metal–organic frameworks and their hybrid materials: emerging photocatalysts for energy and environmental applications
Authors: Behera Diptirani , Priyadarshini Priyanka , Parida Kulamani
Published: January 2025

ZIF-8 MOFs and their hybrid materials: overview, synthesis methods and photocatalytic applications.
Correction: White light emission and superior color stability in a single-component host with exceptional eminent color rendering and theoretical calculations on Duv for color quality
Authors: Khan Wasim Ullah , Khan Waheed Ullah , Zaman Haris , Mahsud Ayaz , Khan Dilfaraz , Khan Salim Ullah , Khan Shuakat , Zhang Yueli
Published: January 2025

Correction for ‘White light emission and superior color stability in a single-component host with exceptional eminent color rendering and theoretical calculations on Duv for color quality’ by Wasim Ullah Khan et al., Mater. Adv., 2024, 5, 9851–9861, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MA00937A.
Heterocyclic core modifications in trypanosomacidal 2-[(phenylheteroaryl)ethyl]ureas
Authors: Toynton Arthur , Ferrins Lori , Newson Harriet L. , Sykes Melissa L. , Varghese Swapna , Nguyen Nghi , Russell Stephanie , Rahmani Raphaël , Cheang Jeremy , Flematti Gavin R. , Skelton Brian W. , Zulfiqar Bilal , Avery Vicky M. , Baell Jonathan B. , Piggott Matthew J.
Published: January 2025

The protozoan parasites Trypanosoma brucei and T. cruzi cause African sleeping sickness and Chagas disease, respectively. SAR for antitrypanosomal 2-[(phenylheteroaryl)ethyl]amides and ureas was expanded, identifying promising oxazoles and pyrazoles.
High-Performance Boron Nitride/Graphene Oxide Composites Modified with Sodium Thiosulfate for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Shams Shamsiya , Bindhu B. , Murali A. , Redrouthu Ramesh , Souwaileh Abdullah Al , Han Sung Soo
Published: January 2025

Two-dimensional (2D) hybrid materials, particularly those based on boron nitride (BN) and graphene oxide (GO), are attractive significant attention for energy application due to their distinct structural, and electronic properties....
Solar-driven plasmon-enhanced photocatalysis: Co2+-doped ZnFe2O4 nanospheres-embedded ZnO nanosheets for effective degradation of dyes and antibiotics
Authors: Lopis Antony Dasint , Menon Karan , Choudhari K. S. , Kulkarni Bhavana , Maradur Sanjeev P. , Kulkarni Suresh D.
Published: January 2025

A novel full-solar-spectrum photocatalyst with promising efficiency attributed to its laddered heterojunction and Ag-based plasmon enhanced activity for the decontamination of water from diverse pollutants.
Copper(i)-catalyzed coupling of alkynyl glycosides: synthesis of buta-1,3-diyne-linked disaccharides and dinucleosides
Authors: Banday Junaid Shafi , Ahmed Sajjad , Ahmed Qazi Naveed
Published: January 2025

Herein we report copper-catalyzed coupling of alkynyl glycosides facilitating the synthesis of buta-1,3-diyne-linked disaccharides.
Synthesis of antimicrobial active 9,10-phenanthrenequinones by carbene organocatalytic tandem reactions
Authors: Hu Yaoluo , Hong Ya , Zheng Yuting , Huang Yi , Chen Jixiang , Wu Xingxing
Published: January 2025

An N-heterocyclic carbene organocatalytic approach that enables the rapid construction of a diverse range of PQs has been disclosed.
Grappa – a machine learned molecular mechanics force field
Authors: Seute Leif , Hartmann Eric , Stühmer Jan , Gräter Frauke
Published: January 2025

We propose Grappa, a machine learned molecular mechanics force field for proteins. Grappa, operating on the molecular graph, accurately predicts energies and forces and agrees with experimental data such as J-couplings and folding free energies.
Correction: The peak viscosity of decaying foam with natural drainage and coarsening
Authors: Yu Wei , Lo Jack H. Y.
Published: January 2025

Correction for ‘The peak viscosity of decaying foam with natural drainage and coarsening’ by Wei Yu and Jack H. Y. Lo, Soft Matter, 2024, 20, 4964–4971, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4SM00498A.
Screening of an antimicrobial peptide-TWPAL and its application in hydrogels for wound healing
Authors: Wang Huinan , Gao Fengyuan , Rafiq Muhammad , Yu Bing , Niu Qinghai , Cong Hailin
Published: January 2025

Open wounds are one of the concerns of modern medicine.
Multi-level Δ-learning for predicting the radiative decay rate constant of phosphorescent platinum(ii) complexes
Authors: Wang Shuai , Yam ChiYung , Hu LiHong , Hung Faan-Fung , Chen Shuguang , Che Chi-Ming , Chen GuanHua
Published: January 2025

The multi-level Δ-learning method significantly advances kr prediction by bridging TDDFT results with experimental values. This approach improves prediction reliability, making it essential for accurate material evaluation.
Correction: A novel platinum(ii) complex with a berberine derivative as a potential antitumor agent targeting G-quadruplex DNA
Authors: Zhang Shu-Lin , Fu Haimei , Ma Yingxia , Lin Qifu , Xu Yanli , Yang Qiyuan , He Peng , Wei Zuzhuang
Published: January 2025

Correction for ‘A novel platinum(ii) complex with a berberine derivative as a potential antitumor agent targeting G-quadruplex DNA’ by Shu-Lin Zhang et al., Org. Biomol. Chem., 2025, https://doi.org/10.1039/d4ob01705f.
Boarding stop inference with uncertain relationship between bus vehicles and mobile smart card readers
Authors: Zhou Peng , Shen Yu , Ji Yuxiong , Du Yuchuan
Published: January 2025

Boarding stop inference for bus passengers is essential for the improvement of bus transit services. Previous studies mainly focus on matching the bus trajectories with the bus stop locations, while the relationship between smart card readers—which collect the smart card data—and bus vehicles is usually given. However, uncertainties arise in practical applications regarding the matching of vehicles and card readers. To tackle this challenge, in this study, a data‐driven approach is proposed to dig into the spatiotemporal features of passengers' smart card data and bus vehicle operations. A weighted bipartite graph algorithm is developed to match the smart card readers with the bus vehicles automatically. To verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed approach, a case study is conducted on the Bus Anhong Line in Shanghai, China. The inferred results of boarding stops are compared with the data from passenger counting sensors installed in the bus vehicles. The matching accuracy rate achieves 0.9539, which validates the effectiveness of the proposed matching model. In addition, the inferred data are used to present the spatiotemporal patterns of boarding passengers and identify high‐demand bus stops.
Separating deterministic and stochastic gravitational wave signals in realistic pulsar timing array datasets
Authors: Ferranti Irene , Shaifullah Golam , Chalumeau Aurelien , Sesana Alberto
Published: January 2025

Recent observations by pulsar timing arrays (PTAs) suggest the presence of gravitational wave (GW) signals that potentially originate from supermassive black hole binaries (SMBHBs). These binaries can generate two kinds of signals: a stochastic gravitational wave background (GWB) or a deterministic continuous gravitational wave (CGW). The ability to correctly recognize and separate them is crucial for accurate signal recovery and astrophysical interpretation. This paper is aimed at investigating the interaction between stochastic GWB and deterministic CGW signals with the analysis pipelines currently available. We focus on understanding potential misinterpretations and biases in the parameter estimation when these signals are analysed separately or altogether. To this end, we performed several realistic simulations based on the European PTA 24.8 yr dataset. We first injected either a GWB or a CGW into five datasets (of three GWB realisations and two CGW realisations) with identical noise. We analysed each signal type independently and then we analysed data sets containing both a stochastic GWB and a single resolvable CGW. We compared the parameter estimations using different search models, including Earth term (ET) only or combined Earth and pulsar term (ET + PT) CGW templates, along with correlated or uncorrelated power law GWB templates. We show that when searched for independently, the GWB and CGW signals can be misinterpreted (i.e. they can be confused with each other) and only a combined search is able to recover the true signal present. For datasets containing both a GWB and a CGW, failure to account for the latter biases the recovery of the GWB; however, when we perform a combined search, both GWB and CGW parameters can be recovered without any strong bias. Care must be taken with the method used to perform combined searches on these multi-component datasets, as the CGW PT can be misinterpreted as a common uncorrelated red noise. However, this can be avoided by conducting direct searches for a correlated GWB plus a CGW (ET + PT). Our study underscores the importance of combined searches to ensure unbiased recovery of GWB parameters in the presence of strong CGWs. This is crucial to accurately interpreting the signal recently found in PTA data and it is a first step towards a robust framework for disentangling stochastic and deterministic GW components in more sensitive datasets in the future.
ZTF SN Ia DR2: Simulations and volume-limited sample
Authors: Amenouche M. , Rosnet P. , Smith M. , Rigault M. , Aubert M. , Barjou-Delayre C. , Burgaz U. , Carreres B. , Dimitriadis G. , Feinstein F. , Galbany L. , Ginolin M. , Goobar A. , Harvey L. , Johansson J. , Kim Y.-L. , Maguire K. , Müller-Bravo T. E. , Nordin J. , Nugent P. , Racine B. , Rosselli D. , Regnault N. , Sollerman J. , Terwel J. H. , Townsend A. , Groom S. L. , Kulkarni S. R. , Kasliwal M. , Laher R. R. , Purdum J.
Published: January 2025

Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) constitute a historical probe for deriving cosmological parameters through the fit of the Hubble-Lemaître diagram, that is, the SN Ia distance modulus versus their redshift. In the era of precision cosmology, realistic simulation of SNe Ia for any survey entering an Hubble-Lemaître diagram is a key tool for addressing observational systematics, such as the Malmquist bias. As the distance modulus of SNe Ia is derived from the fit of their light curves, a robust simulation framework is required. In this paper, we present the performances of the simulation framework skysurvey with the aim to reproduce the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) SN Ia DR2, which covers the first phase of the ZTF and ran from March 2018 to December 2020. The ZTF SN Ia DR2 sample corresponds to almost 3000 classified SNe Ia of cosmological quality. We simulated individual light curves of the ZTF SN Ia DR2 sample to confirm the validity of the framework while taking the observing conditions and instrument performances into account. After the ZTF SN Ia DR2 selection criteria were applied, we found that the simulated fluxes and associated uncertainties agre well with the measured uncertainties when the sky-noise deduced from the observed science magnitude limits is corrected for by a factor 1.23 for the g band, 1.17 for the r band, and 1.20 for the i band. In addition, we accounted for an error floor of 2.5%, 3.5%, and 6% of the flux level in the g, r, and i bands, respectively. Furthermore a redshift dependence of the SALT2 light-curve parameters (stretch and colour) was conducted to deduce the redshift limit that defines a volume-limited sample, that is, an unbiased SNe Ia sample. We found that the ZTF SN Ia DR2 volume-limited sample is characterized by z ≤ 0.06. This volume-limited sample of about 1000 SNe Ia is unique, and an astrophysical analysis can be carried out based on it, or the standardisation procedure can be tested with unprecedented precision (these analyses are presented in companion papers).
Connecting energetic electrons at the Sun and in the heliosphere through X-ray and radio diagnostics
Authors: Paipa-Leon David , Vilmer Nicole , Maksimovic Milan , Krupar Vratislav , Vecchio Antonio
Published: January 2025

Context. Solar flares release huge amounts of energy, a considerable part of which is channeled into particle acceleration in the lower corona. Hard X-ray (HXR) emissions are used to diagnose the accelerated electrons that bombard the chromosphere, while type III radio bursts result from energetic electron beams propagating through the corona and into interplanetary space. The Solar Orbiter mission, launched in 2020, aims to link solar flare remote observations with heliospheric events, thus producing useful observations for our understanding of particle acceleration and propagation from the Sun to the heliosphere.

Aims. While both hard X-Ray and radio emissions result from flare-accelerated electrons, their relationship is not straightforward. By comparing the evolution of the X-ray emitting sites and the timing of type III bursts, our aim is to determine the conditions for associations between X-ray flares and interplanetary (IP) type III bursts.

Methods. We analyzed 15 interplanetary type III bursts that are associated with HXR bursts in the first available period for simultaneous X-ray/radio observations of type III bursts from Solar Orbiter (using the RPW and STIX instruments). X-ray imaging was performed around the onset of the type III bursts, complemented by EUI 174 Å images to assess the magnetic configuration of the corona.

Results. All 15 X-ray flares originated from the same active region on the west limb as observed by Solar Orbiter. In each of the events, a change in X-ray source morphology occurred shortly (< 6 minutes) before the onset of type III radio bursts, indicating a change in the electron acceleration region preceding the radio emission. Considering the delays observed between the two emissions, these findings describe complex scenarios with multiple reconnection episodes, some of which may allow accelerated electrons to escape into IP space when open magnetic field lines are involved (interchange reconnection). In some cases, X-ray source elongations toward open field lines in the UV were observed, reinforcing this idea.
VLT VIMOS integral field spectroscopy of the nova remnant FH Ser
Authors: Guerrero M. A. , Santamaría E. , Takeda L. , González-Carbajal J. I. , Cazzoli S. , Ederoclite A. , Toalá J. A.
Published: January 2025

Context. The source FH Ser experienced a slow classical nova outburst in February 1970 that was the first ever observed at UV, optical, and IR wavelengths. Its nova remnant is elliptical and has multiple knots. A peculiar ring-like filament lies along its minor axis.

Aims. We investigate here the true 3D spatio-kinematical structure of FH Ser to assess the effects of early shaping and to assess its mass and kinetic energy.

Methods. We obtained integral field spectroscopic observations made with the Very Large Telescope (VLT) VIsible MultiObject Spectrograph (VIMOS) of FH Ser. The data cube was analyzed using 3D visualizations that revealed different structural components. A simple geometrical model was compared to the 3D data cube to determine the spatio-kinematic properties of FH Ser.

Results. FH Ser consists of a tilted prolate ellipsoidal shell that is most prominent in Hα, and of a ring-like structure that is most prominent in [N II]. The ellipsoidal shell has equatorial and polar velocities of ≃505 and ≈630 km s−1, respectively, and its major axis is tilted by ≃52° with respect to the line of sight. The inclination angle of the symmetry axis of the ring is similar, that is, it can be described as an equatorial belt of the main ellipsoidal shell. FHSer has an ionized mass of 2.6 × 10−4 M⊙, with a kinetic energy of 1.6 × 1045 erg.

Conclusions. The two different structural components in FH Ser with a similar orientation can be linked to a density enhancement along a plane, most likely the orbital plane at the time of the nova event. The acquisition of integral field spectroscopic observations of nova remnants is mostly required to separate different structural components and to assess their 3D physical structure.
A method for asteroid detection using convolutional neural networks on VST images
Authors: Irureta-Goyena B. Y. , Rachith E. , Hellmich S. , Kneib J.-P. , Altieri B. , Lemon C. , Saifollahi T. , Hainaut O. , Freudling W. , Dux F. , Micheli M. , Ocaña F. , Ramírez-Moreta P. , Courbin F. , Conversi L. , Millon M. , Verdoes Kleijn G. , Salzmann M.
Published: January 2025

Context. The study of asteroids, particularly near-Earth asteroids, is key to gaining insights into our Solar System and can help prevent dangerous collisions. Beyond finding new objects, additional observations of known asteroids will improve our knowledge of their orbit.

Aims. We have developed an automated pipeline to process and search for asteroid trails in images taken with OmegaCAM, the wide- field imager mounted on the VLT Survey Telescope (VST), on the European Southern Observatory’s Cerro Paranal. The pipeline inputs a FITS image and outputs the position, length, and angle of all the asteroids trails detected.

Methods. A convolutional neural network was trained on a set of synthetic asteroid trails, with trail lengths 5–120 pixels (1–25″) and S/Ns 3–20. Its performance was tested on synthetic trails and validated using real trails, chosen from the Solar System Object Image Search of the Canadian Astronomy Data Centre.

Results. On the synthetic trails, the pipeline achieved a completeness of 70% for trails with length ≥15 pixels (3″), with a precision of 82%. On the real trails, the pipeline achieved a completeness of 65%, with a precision of 44%, a lower value likely due to the higher presence of contaminants and stars in the field. The pipeline was able to detect both low- and high-S/N asteroid trails.

Conclusions. Our method shows a strong potential to make new discoveries and precoveries in VST data across the S/N range studied, especially in the fainter end, which remains largely unexplored.
Probing red supergiant atmospheres and winds with early-time, high-cadence, high-resolution type II supernova spectra
Authors: Dessart Luc
Published: January 2025

High-cadence high-resolution spectroscopic observations of infant Type II supernovae (SNe) represent an exquisite probe of the atmospheres and winds of exploding red-supergiant (RSG) stars. Using radiation hydrodynamics and radiative transfer calculations, we studied the gas and radiation properties during and after the phase of shock breakout, considering RSG star progenitors enshrouded within a circumstellar material (CSM) that varies in terms of the extent, density, and velocity profile. In all cases, the original, unadulterated CSM structure is probed only at the onset of shock breakout, seen in high-resolution spectra as narrow, often blueshifted emission components, possibly with an additional absorption trough. As the SN luminosity rises during breakout, radiative acceleration of the unshocked CSM starts, leading to a broadening of the “narrow” lines by several 100 (up to several 1000) km s−1, depending on the CSM properties. This acceleration is at its maximum close to the shock, where the radiative flux is greater and thus typically masked by optical-depth effects. Generally, the narrow-line broadening is greater for more compact, tenuous CSM because of the proximity to the shock where the flux is born; it is smaller in the denser and more extended CSM. Narrow-line emission should show a broadening that slowly increases first (the line forms further out in the original wind), then sharply rises (the line forms in a region that is radiatively accelerated), before decreasing until late times (the line forms further away in regions more weakly accelerated). Radiative acceleration is expected to inhibit X-ray emission during the early (IIn) phase. Although high spectral resolution is critical at the earliest times to probe the original slow wind, the radiative acceleration and the associated line broadening may be captured with medium resolution. This would allow for a simultaneous view of narrow, Doppler-broadened line emission, as well as extended, electron-scattering broadened emission.
Messier 90 galactic halo rotation in the microwaves
Authors: De Paolis F. , Gurzadyan V. G. , Kashin A. L. , Yegoryan G. , Qadir A. , Tahir N. , Jetzer Ph.
Published: January 2025

We used Planck data to study the Virgo Cluster’s galaxy M 90 and its surroundings. We find, as in the case of certain galaxies of the Local Group and its vicinity, a substantial temperature asymmetry that probably arises from the rotation of the M 90 halo and extends up to about one degree from its centre. This temperature asymmetry is particularly remarkable as M 90 is a rare blueshifted galaxy of the Virgo Cluster, and it thus has possible implications for the cluster internal dynamics versus the galactic halo’s formation and structure. Possible explanations for the observed effect are discussed.
Influences of the Kuroshio on the salinity budget of the Seto Inland Sea, Japan
Authors: Matsuda Kazuki , Uchiyama Yusuke
Published: January 2025

The Seto Inland Sea (SIS) harbors abundant aquatic biological diversity, while its ecosystem has been affected by climate change in recent years. Previous studies have shown that the residual current in the SIS varies significantly under the influence of the Kuroshio. To isolate the open ocean influences, salinity transport and the associated salinity budget in the SIS were investigated, as a conservative variable characterizing the estuarine hydrodynamics, using a high-resolution, long-term 3D circulation model. Our findings indicate that the fluctuations of salinity fluxes were influenced by the position of the Kuroshio axis and were highly correlated with the associated volume fluxes. The clockwise eastward transport from Bungo to Kii varies seasonally with an increase in winter and a decrease or counterclockwise increase in summer. The total salinity in each of the eight sub-basins of the SIS was also correlated with the salinity fluxes at the straits connecting the sub-basins. The total salinity in the western sub-basins increased with the eastward clockwise transport and decreased with the westward counterclockwise transport, whereas the eastern sub-basins showed less correlations, resulting in a zonal difference of salinity response to the open ocean.
Superhydrophobic carbon papers for electrostatic water collection from fog
Authors: Xie Qiongdan , Yang BeiEr , Mu Jiangtao , Zhang Haoran , Yu Jiaxin , Liu Yunchen , Fang Deyu , Cong Longqi , Yang Qihang , Liu Ruoqi , Chen Qianqian
Published: January 2025

Fog collection presents a promising solution to water scarcity in arid regions. Typically, hydrophilic surfaces are used for this purpose. This study demonstrates that electrically conductive PTFE-coated superhydrophobic carbon papers are highly effective for electrostatic fog collection. The wettability of the carbon paper has minimal impact on collection efficiency. Despite the superhydrophobic nature of the carbon papers causing condensed fog particles to aggregate into spherical droplets, this aggregation has little effect on collection performance. Additionally, the efficiency of fog collection is independent of charge type; both negative and positive high voltages yield similar results. The fog collection efficiency is directly correlated with electrostatic air current, though the relationship is nonlinear: efficiency initially increases sharply with current before leveling off.
Three-dimensional transport of coral larvae and associated population connectivity in the coastal area of Okinawa Island, Japan
Authors: Zhang Tianrui , Uchiyama Yusuke , Takeyasu Kimika
Published: January 2025

In recent years, global warming has intensified coral bleaching worldwide. The mesophotic zone (MPZ) at depths of 30-150 meters, where photosynthesis is viable and water temperatures are stable, is expected to serve as a refuge and gene resupply source for shallow-water corals. This study quantitatively evaluates the 3D population connectivity between shallow-water corals and MPZ corals in the potential coral habitats surrounding Okinawa Island. Utilizing a triple-nested high-resolution 3D ocean circulation model, an offline, 3D Lagrangian advection-dispersion model for planktonic coral larvae was developed. Results show that 3D intra-island coral connectivity is strongly influenced by topographically constrained residual currents around the island. Coral larvae released from shallow areas are transported in a clockwise direction around the island. While the larvae released from the west coast are transported to the east coast by crossing the northern tip of the island, their movement is significantly hindered at the southern tip by a shallow channel as a topographic barrier. Conversely, this clockwise transport is much less pronounced in the MPZ, resulting in lower connectivity between the west and east coasts. In addition, potential source areas of coral larvae were analyzed to determine an island-wide coral network that could support coral conservation efforts in Okinawa.
Investigation study of face mask consumption in Malaysia and its impact on environment
Authors: Low Chung-Yu , Bee Soo-Tueen , Law Yung-Siang , Lee Tin-Sin , Bee Soo-Ling
Published: January 2025

Although face masks might protect us against the COVID-19 virus, inappropriate disposal of used face mask can have a negative impact on the environment. As a result, it is critical to analyse the consumption of face masks and its Life Cycle Assessment to explore the environmental consequences for long-term development. In this study, the observation on the consumption of face masks have been divided into 2 periods of time, which were the period of March 2019 to March 2020 (before COVID-19 epidemic) and the period of April 2020 to April 2021 (during COVID-19 epidemic). Malaysia is estimated to consume 8,398,943 pieces of face masks per month before the COVID-19 epidemic and 62,992,074 pieces of face masks per month during the COVID-19 epidemic. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is carried out in this work to investigate the environmental impacts of both period of time by assessing the input and output of the face masks in a cradle-to-grave manner. OpenLCA software were used by adapting consequential system model based on ReCiPe 2016 (H) method as impact assessment method. In overall, RFL washable face mask is found to provide a lower environmental impact when compared to 3-ply surgical face mask in terms of the ReCiPe midpoint and endpoint indicator, which included Global Warming Potential, Photochemical Oxidant Formation Potential, Toxicity Potential, Ecosystem Quality, Human Health and Resource Depletion.
Spatiotemporal variability of turbidity water in tidal areas of Perak River, Malaysia, based on field survey and Sentinel-2 image analysis
Authors: Takahashi Haruna , Yamasaki Yosei , Nakata Akane , Okada Shoji
Published: January 2025

In the Perak River, which flows into Malaysia, a tidal zone extends approximately 40 km from the mouth of the river, and turbid water is always present. Therefore, a detailed field survey is necessary to reveal the dynamical phenomenon of turbid water associated with the tidal zone. However, it is efficient to specify the survey area and conditions by clarifying the rough spatiotemporal variability characteristics in advance. In this study, water sampling and turbidity measurements were conducted in the tidal sensitive area of the Perak River during the satellite Sentinel-2 transit. An equation to estimate turbidity from surface reflectance at near-infrared wavelengths was experimentally developed using fine sand collected from the Perak River, and this equation was applied to past Sentinel-2 images to clarify the spatiotemporal variability characteristics of turbidity in the tidal zone. The results showed a large longitudinal variation in turbidity in the 20 km section from the mouth of the river, and a convergence zone of suspended sediment was identified when turbidity was relatively high.
Optimisation of phytoremediation of zinc ion by Lemnaceae using response surface methodology
Authors: Tai Jia Wei , Pang Yean Ling , Lim Steven , Chong Woon Chan
Published: January 2025

Phytoremediation, an eco-friendly approach, offers a green pathway towards cleaner and safer water resources. The efficiency of zinc ion removal through phytoremediation by Lemnaceae as a function of Lemnaceae species, the mass of duckweed and the initial zinc ion concentration was studied. The central composite design was applied for surface response modelling to analyse the effects of the combination of environmental factors and optimise the phytoremediation process. The model achieved a satisfactory prediction with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.985 based on a modified quadratic model for the optimised phytoremediation process. Furthermore, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to assess the adequacy and significance of the generated model. The optimal zinc ion removal of 88 % could be achieved by Spirodela polyrhiza, Wolffia arrhiza and Lemna minor at the initial zinc ion concentration of 92.92 mg/L, 39.5 mg/L, and 21.08 mg/L and duckweed mass of 22.56 g, 22.38 g, and 24.81 g under the exposure of ambient conditions with sufficient daylight exposure.
Integration of carbide lime substrate for enhanced energy recovery and dye decomposition in plant-microbial fuel cell coupled with cupric oxide/carbon cathode
Authors: Leow Guo-Yao , Lam Sze-Mun , Sin Jin-Chung , Zeng Honghu
Published: January 2025

In this study, an innovative and efficient carbide lime-assisted plant-microbial fuel cell (Ca-P-MFC) system was developed for treating dyestuff effluent and generating electricity. This system featured a carbon brush anode and a cupric oxide/carbon (CuO/C) cathode. The Ca-P-MFC system revealed outstanding performance compared to both the P-MFC and CW systems. At a carbide lime loading of 200 mg L−1, the Ca-P-MFC system achieved an impressive methylene blue decomposition efficiency of 86.6% and a maximum power density (P) of 60.2 mW m−2. The improved performance can be attributed to the incorporation of carbide lime, which promoted microbial reactions extending from the electrode surfaces throughout the operational area of the system. Furthermore, carbide lime served as an effective electron carrier, facilitating electron transfer across the system. The optimal loading of carbide lime was systematically evaluated in the developed Ca-P-MFC system, providing comprehensive insights into the mechanism of P-MFC.