bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning‐Driven Modeling of Dynamic Acoustic Sensing in Biomimetic Soft‐Robotic Pinnae
Authors: Chakrabarti Sounak , Müller Rolf
Published: October 2024

Biological function often depends on complex mechanisms of a dynamic, time‐variant nature. An example is certain bat species (horseshoe bats—Rhinolophidae) that use intricate pinna musculatures to execute a variety of pinna deformations. While prior work has indicated the potential significance of these motions for sensory information encoding, it remains unclear how the complex time‐variant pinna geometries could be controlled to enhance sensory performance. To address this issue, this work has investigated deep neural network models as digital twins for biomimetic pinnae. The networks were trained to predict the acoustic impacts of the deformed pinna geometries. A total of three network architectures have been evaluated for this purpose using physical numerical simulations (boundary element method) as ground truth. The networks predicted the acoustic beampattern function from pinna shape or even directly from the states of actuators that were used to deform the pinna shapes in simulation. Inserting prior knowledge in the form of beam‐shaped basis functions did not improve network performance. The ability of the networks to produce beampattern predictions with low computational effort (in about three milliseconds each) should lend itself readily to supporting learning methods such as deep reinforcement learning that require many such functional evaluations.
Assessing Variance in Male Reproductive Skew Based on Long‐Term Data in Free‐Ranging Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Widdig Anja , Engel Lisa , Ruiz‐Lambides Angelina , Dubuc Constance , Weiß Brigitte M.
Published: October 2024

The unequal share in male reproduction (male reproductive skew) has been reported across primate species. To explain the distribution of male reproduction within groups various skew models have been applied to primates, however the “dynamic tug‐of‐war” model first accounted for the specifics of primate sociality. This model assumes that an increase in the number of competing males, a high degree of female cycle synchrony and their interaction will result in a lower degree of male reproductive skew. Here, we first tested the predictors of this model in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) using long‐term demographic and genetic data (up to 9 groups over 22 seasons) of the Cayo Santiago population (Puerto Rico). We also tested an extended version including group size and sex ratio and their interaction with female cycle synchrony. Finally, we investigated which male attributes determine the probability to become a top sire (highest paternity share per group and season). Confirming studies, male rhesus macaques exhibited low to medium degrees of reproductive skew based on the multinomial index, M. Unlike predicted, reproductive skew was higher in groups with more males. The extended analysis suggested that reproductive skew increased with group size in more male‐biased groups, but decreased with group size in female‐biased groups indicating that the numbers of male and female group members matter. We detected no effect of female cycle synchrony on the variance of reproductive skew. Finally, only maternal rank predicted the probability to become a top sire as long as males resided in their natal group. Together, our results did not support predictions by the dynamic skew model in rhesus macaques, but strengthen studies suggesting that other factors in addition to male‐male competition predict male reproductive output in rhesus macaques. Future skew studies should consider female choice and alternative male mating strategies.
Construction and Evaluation of pH‐Responsive Nitrogen‐Containing Metal–Organic Frameworks as Oral Drug Carriers
Authors: Qi Zhaorui , Li Xurui , Zhu Yueming , Li Li , Liu Yu
Published: October 2024

Metal–organic framework (MOF) is a porous material composed of metal ions/clusters and organic ligands. It has attracted much attention due to its high specific surface area, good biocompatibility, chemical modifiability, and diversity of components. Among many MOFs, zirconium‐based MOFs are particularly suitable for biological applications due to their optimal stability and low toxicity to hydrolysis. However, due to the weak coordination bonds between many metal clusters and organic ligands, most MOFs are prone to collapse in acidic environments, and the stability of MOFs as drug carriers cannot be guaranteed so that they cannot be widely used as oral drug carriers. This study synthesized the three MOFs using metal Zr ion clusters as the center and different nitrogen‐containing organic ligands, which are stable in gastric acid, namely, UiO‐66‐PDC, UiO‐66‐NH2, and UiO‐66‐NO2. The anionic drug loxoprofen (LOX) was loaded and characterized using scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and x‐ray diffraction. The adsorption and release behaviors of LOX and the three MOFs were studied from the molecular point of view by computer simulation. A series of behaviors and mechanisms of pH‐responsive nitrogen‐containing MOFs as oral drug carriers were further explored through rat pharmacokinetic experiments, the everted gut sac experiments, and intestinal absorption mechanism experiments. The experimental results show that there is a strong electrostatic interaction between anionic drug LOX and UiO‐66‐PDC under simulated gastric acid environment, which prolongs the half‐life of the drug, proving that LOX@UiO‐66‐PDC is a promising new oral drug delivery system.
Ruta Angustifolia Essential Oil: Behavioral and Insecticidal Effects Against Larvae and Adults of Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Annaz Houssam , Zerrad Hamass , Moullamri Mouna , Ajaha Ayoub , Kounnoun Ayoub , Cacciola Francesco , Altemimi Ammar B. , Laganà Vinci Roberto , Arakrak Abdelhay , Laglaoui Amin , Bouayad Noureddin , Rharrabe Kacem
Published: October 2024

The study aims to evaluate the behavioral and insecticidal effects of Ruta angustifolia EO (RAEO) against larvae and adults of a major pest insect, Tribolium castaneum. RAEO exhibited a strong repellency against both adults and larvae where percentages as high as 74 and 72 % of PR (Percentage of Repellency) were recorded respectively, at 0.47 μL/cm2 after 2 h. Regarding the antifeedant bioassay, no feeding deterrence was recorded in adults while an increase in appetite was registered in larvae exhibiting −80 % of FDI recorded at 0.2 μL/pellet. In terms of feeding preference, the response significantly depended on the developmental stage (F=97.19, P<0.05) and larvae were attracted to treated pellets recording percentages of 84 and 73 % of PI (Preference index) after 5 and 30 min at 0.05 μL/pellet; on the other hand, adults expressed a repulsive behavior at 0.2 μL/pellet with a PI of −81.1 (20 min), and −69.2 % (30 min). Regarding topical application toxicity, a significant difference was observed between larvae and adults (p<0.05 F=174.56). The study promotes the use of RAEO as a repellent and bioinsecticide for the control of larvae and adults of T. castaneum.
Polymer free biolimus coated stents to treat acute ST‐elevation myocardial infarction in Asian patients
Authors: Ong Paul J. L. , Chui Shing Fung , Tam Frankie Chor‐Cheung , Nguyen Quang Tuan , Tsai Cheng‐Ting , Kang Woong Chol , Nuruddin Amin Arif , Singh Ramesh , Chotinaiwattarakul Chunhakasem , Lee Michael
Published: October 2024

Background

Patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) for ST‐segment‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have a high thrombotic burden and often have a high bleeding risk (HBR). Asian patients have different patterns of thrombotic and bleeding risk from other populations which may be particularly relevant in the setting of PPCI for STEMI.

Objectives

To assess the safety and efficacy of the polymer free biolimus coated coronary stent (PF‐BCS, BioFreedomTM, Biosensors International) in Asian STEMI patients.

Methods

Patients with acute STEMI who received at least one PF‐BCS were invited to participate after their index procedure. Follow‐up was performed at 1, 4, and 12 months. The primary endpoint was the rate of target lesion failure (TLF) at 1 year. A performance goal was derived from the biolimus eluting stent arm of the COMFORTABLE AMI study which was the only prior dedicated study of biolimus eluting stents in patients with STEMI.

Results

A total of 914 patients with STEMI were enrolled. Mean patient age was 60 ± 13 years, diabetes was present in 23.2% and 43% were active smokers. According to the ARC definition, 12.4% of the patients were HBR. TLF rate was 2.54% [95% CI: 1.52–3.56], p‐value for non‐inferiority <0.0001, p‐value for superiority = 0.0004). The rate of definite/probable stent thrombosis was 0.44% [95% CI: 0.16–1.16]. There was a trend toward more BARC 3 to 5 bleeding in ARC‐HBR patients (3.69% vs 1.46%, HR = 2.74, [95% CI: 0.87–8.62], p = 0.07).

Conclusions

In Asian patients undergoing PPCI for STEMI and treated with variable durations of DAPT, the use of a PF‐BCS was associated with low rates of TLF and stent thrombosis (NCT03609346).
Influence of Pnictogen and Ligand Framework on the Lewis Acidity and Steric Environment in Pnictogen Pincer Complexes
Authors: Kirsch Tamina Z. , Hannah Tyler J. , Chitnis Saurabh S.
Published: October 2024

Pnictogen pincer complexes are a fascinating class of compounds due to their dynamic molecular and electronic structures, and valuable stoichiometric or catalytic reactivity. As recognition of their unique chemistry has grown, so too has the library of pincer ligands employed and pnictogen centres engaged to prepare them. Here we computationally study how the choice of pincer ligand framework and pnictogen influence the electronic and steric outcomes within the complexes obtained. The most relevant electronic parameter is the pnictogen‐centred electrophilicity, which has been quantified by fluoride ion affinities and LUMO energies, while the most relevant steric parameter is the crowding around the central pnictogen, which has been quantified by the %Vbur values and visualized using steric maps. The resulting trends are analyzed with reference to binding pocket size, acceptor orbital type, electronic delocalization, π‐donor strengths, and heteroatom incorporation. Thus, considering 16 ligand frameworks and 4 heavy pnictogen centres, this study provides a broad‐spectrum view of stereo‐electronic variation in pnictogen pincer complexes, which, together with a recent study on geometric variation in the same family, provides a substantial dataset to guide future molecular design and reactivity studies.
Construction of a Fluorinated‐Anion Pillared Metal‐Organic Framework Exhibiting Dual‐Pore Architecture for Simultaneous Enhancement of C2H2 Adsorption Capacity and Selectivity
Authors: Li Liangjun , Li Fangru , Xu Wenli , Guo Mengwei , Zhu Peijie , Xing Tao , Li Zhi , Wang Mingqing , Wu Mingbo
Published: October 2024

Physisorption‐based separation processes represents a promising alternative to the conventional thermally driven methods, such as cryogenic separation. However, a significant challenge lies in balancing the trade‐off between adsorption capacity and selectivity of adsorbents. In this study, we introduce a novel fluorinated‐anion pillared metal‐organic frameworks (APMOFs) featuring a dual‐pore architecture, constructed using a pyridine‐oxazole bifunctional ligand. The inherent low symmetry of the ligand leads to significant distortion of the fluorinated‐anion pillars, resulting in a distinctive type of APMOFs characterized by dual‐pore architecture. On pore structure with constrict pore width is enriched with a high density of anion fluorinated pillars, offering numerous active sites advantageous for enhancing separation selectivity. Concurrently, the other pore structure exhibits larger dimensions, facilitating increased gas molecule accommodation and thereby augmenting adsorption capacity. Gas sorption studies reveal a substantial C2H2 adsorption capacity and a high C2H2/CO2 separation selectivity. Breakthrough experiments confirm its exceptional separation performance, while theoretical investigations elucidate a sequential adsorption process within these APMOFs, underscoring the efficacy of this strategy in overcoming trade‐off limits in adsorbents.
The Future is Bright: The Emergence of Glassy Organic Dots for Biological Applications
Authors: Primrose William L. , Sevilla‐Pym Angelica , Hudson Zachary M.
Published: October 2024

Glassy organic dots (g‐Odots) are an emerging class of luminescent nanoparticles that offer enhanced photostability, superior brightness, and modular tunability compared to other commonly employed nanoparticles. In the last several years, they have been used as bioimaging probes for single‐ and multi‐photon cellular imaging, exhibiting low cytotoxicity even after several days. While they are emerging as promising materials for use in biological applications, g‐Odots face several key challenges before their use can become widespread. In this concept, we outline the state of the literature on g‐Odots and highlight a few ways in which their design and use can be improved upon.
C(sp2)‐Arylsulfones Directly from Arylsulfonyl Chlorides with Boronic Acids by Photoactivation of Boosted EDA Complexes
Authors: Yuan Nianting , Chen Sen , Liu Yuanxin , Chen Min
Published: October 2024

Directly with arylsulfonyl chlorides, a green and efficient deborylativesulfonylation of aryl(alkenyl)boronic acids has been developed to access both diarylsulfones and vinylarylsulfones in moderate to excellent yields at room temperature under visible‐light irradiation. This protocol features broad C(sp2)‐arylsulfone applicability, simple operation, accessibility of raw materials and ease of scale‐up. The key to the success of this photoredox transformation is introducing catalytic amounts of additives, naphthalen‐2‐ols, thus boosting the formed electron donor‐acceptor (EDA) complexes, which can dramatically improve not only the reaction efficiency but also the selectivity. This strategy was inspired and derived from specific substrates, representing a rare paradigm of how to exploit a more general reaction system. Moreover, extensive control experiments provide insights into the proposed mechanism.
Discovery of Truncated Cyclic Peptides Targeting an Induced‐Fit Pocket on PCSK9
Authors: Grosche Philipp , Flyer Alec N. , Gattlen Raphael , Xu Mei , Golosov Andrei A. , Vera Victoria , Pickett Stephanie , Brousseau Margaret E. , Chopra Rajiv , Clairmont Kevin B. , Koch Alexander , Liu Eugene , Reid Patrick , Perry Lauren , Yang Lihua , Yang Qing , Monovich Lauren G.
Published: October 2024

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) regulates plasma low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL−C) levels by promoting hepatic LDL receptor (LDL−R) degradation. We previously identified and optimized 13‐mer cyclic peptides that bind to a novel, induced‐fit pocket adjacent to the binding interface of PCSK9 and LDL−R and effectively disrupted the PCSK9/LDL−R protein‐protein interaction (PPI) both in vitro and in vivo. However this series of large cyclic peptides required charged groups for function and lacked oral bioavailability in rodents. We describe herein multiple structure‐based modifications to these original peptides to yield truncated, neutral molecules with full PPI function in both biochemical and cellular assays. In parallel, new mRNA‐peptide display screens identified non‐functional 8‐ and 9‐mer compounds which ligand the induced‐fit pocket in a distinct manner. Taken together, these studies indicate multiple directions to reduce the size and complexity of this peptide class toward a true small molecule oral agent.
Water as Solvent for the Dispersion of 2D Nanostructured Materials
Authors: Georgakilas Vasilios I.
Published: October 2024

The development of large number of two‐dimensional (2D) nanostructured materials that followed the success of graphene and the need for their handling and manipulation e. g., in inks, brought to the fore the study of solvents and substances that contribute to the stabilization of 2D nanomaterials in the liquid phase. The successful dispersion of 2D materials in solvents is combined with one of the most widespread preparation methods, that of liquid phase exfoliation. In this article, a review for the role of water in the preparation of different 2D nanostructures and their stable dispersions in the liquid phase is discussed. The use of water as a solvent or dispersant is instrumental in promoting materials with an ecological footprint, low cost, and sustainability.
Mechanism for the Indirect Photo‐Transformation of Molecular Switches using a Pyrrolo–Pyrrole Two‐Photon Absorbing Antenna
Authors: Bravo‐Romero Melissa , Guzmán‐Méndez Óscar , Reza Mariana M. , Peon Jorge
Published: October 2024

Electron‐rich symmetric pull‐push‐pull molecules can act as efficient two‐photon absorbing units. When these chromophores are bonded directly to photo‐switchable molecules they can function as antenna systems to indirectly induce photochemical transformations in isomerizable groups after energy transfer. Recently, we developed an antenna–molecular switch system based on a pyrrolo–pyrrole two‐photon active chromophore. When this antenna section is functionalized with symmetrically situated azo‐sections as N,N’‐pyrrolic‐substituents, these azo molecular switches can be efficiently transformed from their E to their Z isomers after non‐linear light absorption by the antenna, followed by indirect excitation of the azo‐sections. In this contribution we present a case‐study of one of these systems through femtosecond‐resolved fluorescence to observe the dynamics involved in the excitation and relaxation steps within the antenna section, as well as the energy transfer pathways. By time‐resolving the emission signals we observed that the energy transfer can occur in parallel with the relaxation within the first singlet vibronic states localized at the pyrrolo–pyrrole antenna. In fact, the antenna‐to‐azo section energy transfer shows a biphasic nature. At early times, during the relaxation within the antenna, there is an initial population of azo‐section excited molecules. In addition, after the system has evolved to the fully relaxed S1 state at the antenna section, the energy transfer has components related to thermal fluctuations which increase the couplings with the receiver states at the azo‐switches giving transfer rates of the order of 1010 s−1 at room temperature. The characterization of these relaxation and energy transfer steps, as well as the role of the solvent in these processes, gives insights for the development of future molecules with indirect two‐photon isomerization properties using this kind of pull‐push‐pull two‐photon active antenna. Due to their two‐photon reactive properties, these systems can have applications in schemes where highly localized photo‐isomerization is required.
Characterization of a gene conferring resistance to US Russian wheat aphid biotypes in the Iranian wheat landrace PI 625139
Authors: Xu Xiangyang , Li Genqiao , Wolabu Tezera W. , Bai Guihua , Bian Ruolin , Bernardo Amy , Carver Brett F. , Wu Yanqi
Published: October 2024

Russian wheat aphid (RWA, Diuraphis noxia Kurdjumov) is a highly invasive and destructive wheat pest evolving rapidly to overcome host resistance. Novel genes conferring resistance to multiple RWA biotypes are needed to sustain wheat production. The Iranian landrace PI 625139 is resistant to all five US RWA biotypes. To map the RWA resistance gene in PI 625139, both F2 and F2:3 populations were developed from cross PI 625139 × Smith's Gold, and the F2:3 population was evaluated for responses to five RWA biotypes, RWA1, RWA2, RWA3/7, RWA6, and RWA8. RWA assays identified a single gene in PI 625139, designated Dn625139, conditioning resistance to all five US RWA biotypes. Selective genotyping of a subset of F2 plants using genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) revealed a set of single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers on the short arm of chromosome 7D that are closely associated with RWA resistance. Kompetitive allele‐specific PCR (KASP) markers were developed from selected GBS‐SNPs in 7DS. Genetic analysis using the new KASP and simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers placed Dn625139 to a 2.6 cM interval. Dn625139 was 1.2 cM proximal to the KASP marker Stars‐KASP1007 (169.57 Mb) and 1.4 cM distal to the SSR marker Stars1039 (195.27 Mb) in the International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium (IWGSC) RefSeq v2.1 reference sequence, and co‐segregated with the SSR marker Stars1029 (180.82 Mb). Dn625139 is a valuable gene conferring resistance to multiple RWA biotypes, and the molecular markers developed in this study can facilitate its rapid introgression into locally adapted cultivars to enhance wheat RWA resistance.
Environmental, social, and governance evaluation for European small and medium enterprises: A multicriteria approach
Authors: Barro Diana , Corazza Marco , Filograsso Gianni
Published: October 2024

The exposure to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks can be effectively measured by companies to identify opportunities for long‐term sustainable growth, along with the social and environmental impact. This process is crucial for listed small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) wanting additional support in their ESG transition, and for European SMEs it will be required by the implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), starting from 2026. In this contribution, we propose to apply a multicriteria decision aiding approach to assess the sustainability profiles of SMEs. The methodology, which allows the measurements of a firm's ESG efforts (ESGness), is applied to a sample of European‐listed SMEs, controlling for potential sector‐specific effects, in order to understand what is the situation on the ESG front, and to identify ESG leaders and laggards. The model can provide valuable information for the firm, and for a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including policymakers and investors. The obtained rankings show some degree of robustness across different model parameterizations. The benefits of voluntary disclosure of sustainability information are investigated under a prudential scoring framework.
The role of wild bees and cavity‐nesting wasps as ecological indicators of the last traditionally managed meadows in Eastern Europe
Authors: Demeter Imre , Lajos Károly , Balog Adalbert , Sárospataki Miklós
Published: October 2024

The number of wild bees and cavity‐nesting wasps is abundant in agricultural areas and they contribute significantly to ecosystem services. Due to their specialization in nesting sites and food sources, these groups are sensitive to habitat condition changes and they are therefore important indicators for environmental impact assessments. As semi‐natural habitats are steadily declining and often understudied, their significance for research is increasingly recognized. During this research, the role of wild bee species and cavity‐nesting Hymenopteran taxa as indicators was examined, along the unique combination of high nature value and traditional land use habitats in Eastern Europe, Transylvania. Transects and trap nests were used to test the diversity and abundance of wild bees and cavity‐nesting Hymenopterans to identify possible differences between highly protected and less protected areas. The differences in taxonomic groups between the sites and the potential effects of landscape structure on wild bees and cavity‐nesting Hymenopterans were also assessed. We detected a high diversity of wild bee species and a significant species replacement from one study year to another. Among the nest‐building Hymenopteran taxa, the majority of nests was built by Trypoxylon sp. during both study years, with a stronger dominance in the second year. The different taxonomic groups of wild bees and cavity‐nesting Hymenopterans showed differences in their habitat affinities. The majority of the sampled bumblebee species as well as Trypoxylon sp. had an affinity towards the study sites located within the highly protected study area. Altogether, we found different habitat preferences for different Hymenopteran groups (both wild bees and wasps) and conclude that these groups definitely have the potential to serve as indicators for differences in the intensity of land use.
Bill Length of Non‐breeding Shorebirds Influences the Water Depth Preferences for Foraging in the West Coast of India
Authors: Aarif K. M. , Zouhar Jan , Musilova Zuzana , Musil Petr , Nefla Aymen , Muzaffar Sabir Bin , Rubeena K. A.
Published: October 2024

Body size, bill length and shape determine foraging techniques, habitat selection and diet among shorebirds. In this study, water depth preferences of different shorebirds with different bill sizes in various habitats including mudflats, mangroves at Kadalundi‐Vallikkunnu Community Reserve (KVCR) (19 shorebird species) and adjacent agroecosystems at Vazhakkad (12 species) were studied between 2017 and 2020. The bill length of the shorebirds was significantly and positively associated with the average water depth, where shorebirds were observed to forage. Shorebirds with shorter bill lengths preferred shallow waters and those with longer bills preferred deep waters for their foraging activities. Habitat type also had a significant effect on the shorebird occurrence. Eurasian Curlews in both mangroves and mudflats were observed in areas with a higher water depth compared to other species. This is due to the fact that shorebirds tend to specialise in feeding habitats or in prey items to reduce intraspecific competition and distribute themselves in space and time in accordance with the availability of their resources. The occurrence of some species in agroecosystems is attributed to the reduced food availability, habitat quality and other disturbances for shorebirds on tidal flats, which are critical for sustaining migratory phenology. The differences in bill morphology are crucial in determining diet, water depth, niche preferences and segregation. Morphological characters and hydrological rhythms determine specialisation in diet and habitat preference in shorebirds.
Prehatch Calls and Coordinated Birth in Turtles
Authors: Jorgewich‐Cohen Gabriel , Wheatley Madeleine , Gaspar Lucas Pacciullio , Praschag Peter , Lubberink Nicole Scholte , Ming Keesha , Rodriguez Nicholas A. , Ferrara Camila R.
Published: October 2024

Hatching synchronisation is widespread in oviparous taxa. It has been demonstrated that many species use sounds to coordinate synchronous hatching, being widespread among archosaurs (birds and crocodilians). Recent studies have shown that some turtle species produce vocalisations from within the egg, but the role of this behaviour in synchronising hatch is untested. The small amount of information about sound production by turtle embryos, limited to a handful of closely related species, precludes any inferences based on differences in their ecology, reproductive behaviour and phylogenetic context. With the goal to investigate if coordinated synchronous behaviour is mediated by within‐egg vocalisations in turtles, we recorded clutches from six different turtle species. The selected animals present different ecological and reproductive niches and belong to distinct phylogenetic lineages at the family level. We aimed to understand: (1) what is the phylogenetic distribution of within‐egg vocal behaviour among turtles; (2) if asynchronous turtle species vocalise from within the egg; (3) if clutch size influences synchronous behaviour and (4) if within‐egg turtle calls follow any phylogenetic signal. The new evidence provides light to the current knowledge about synchronous behaviour and within‐egg calls, challenging previous hypothesis that within‐egg sounds are accidentally produced as side‐effects of other behaviours.
Lemming and Vole Cycles: A New Intrinsic Model
Authors: Levay Elizabeth A. , Nasser Helen , Zelko Matthew D. , Penman Jim , Johns Terrance G.
Published: October 2024

It is 100 years since the first paper described the multiannual cycles in Arctic rodents and lagomorphs. The mechanisms driving population cycles in animals like lemmings and voles are complex, often attributed to extrinsic factors, such as food availability and quality, pathogens, parasites and/or predators. While extrinsic factors provide insights into population cycles, none fully explain the phenomenon. We propose an underlying innate, intrinsic mechanism, based on epigenetic regulation, that drives population cycles under harsh arctic conditions. We propose that epigenetically driven phenotypic changes associated with sexual development, growth and behaviour accumulate over time in offspring, eventually producing a phase change from rising population density to eventual population collapse. Under this hypothesis, and unlike previous hypotheses, extrinsic factors modify population cycles but would not be primary drivers. The interaction between our intrinsic cycle and extrinsic factors explains established phenomena like delayed‐density dependence, whereby population growth is controlled by time‐dependent negative feedback. We advocate integrating a century of field research with the latest epigenetic analysis to better understand the drivers of population cycles.
Measuring Temporal Change in Scrub Vegetation Cover Using UAV‐Derived Height Maps: A Case Study at Two UK Nature Reserves
Authors: Jordan Matthew , Vafidis Jim , Steer Mark , Fawcett Kathy , Meakin Kathy , Parry Gareth , Brown Matthew
Published: October 2024

Measuring the outcome of practical interventions and actions helps to inform conservation management objectives and assess progress towards objectives and targets. Measuring success also informs future management by identifying actions that are effective and those that are not. Scrub vegetation is an important habitat type in terrestrial ecosystems, providing important shelter and food resources for biodiversity and livestock. Much of practical land management in the UK involves the monitoring and management of scrub, and current drone‐based methods of scrub collection requires expensive equipment or complex methods. A 2021 paper determined a cheap and simple way to determine scrub levels, and this could potentially be used to map temporal changes, as well as identify directional change in scrub. This study looks at whether the method outlined in the 2021 study could be used to measure temporal and directional changes in scrub cover on two nature reserves in the UK: Daneway Banks in Gloucestershire and Flat Holm Island in the Severn Estuary. Scrub levels at Daneway Banks increased from 14.63% in 2015 to 16.52% in 2017, before decreasing to 14.89% in 2021 due to managed cutting and clearing. Scrub cover at Flatholm Island decreased from 10.18% in 2019 to 8.71% in 2021. The exact locations of scrub growth and loss for each site was also calculated and mapped. This approach was found to be a viable way of measuring temporal and directional change in scrub levels. The data can also be used to reframe changes in scrub levels as a shift towards vegetation succession or reduction, to better visualise how changes in scrub levels affect overall site management goals, and is a cheaper, more accessible alternative to current methods of measuring temporal vegetation changes.
Efficient Visible‐Light‐Induced π‐Extension of Perylene Tetraesters: An Investigation on Regioselectivity
Authors: Fujimoto Keisuke , Miyano Shingo , Norizuki Kenshin , Inuzuka Toshiyasu , Sengoku Tetsuya , Takahashi Masaki
Published: October 2024

The present study discloses a highly efficient visible‐light‐induced π‐extension of perylene tetraesters and discussion on the regioselectivity in the photocyclization. We initially found that π‐extension reaction of 3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl perylene tetraester smoothly proceeded by only irradiating blue LED with a complete regioselectivity. Investigations of the photocyclization with various substrates revealed the relationship between the regioselectivity and electron‐donating/withdrawing effects of the substituents on the aromatic groups. Moreover, theoretical investigation suggested the importance of bond alteration in the aromatic groups: cyclization proceeds preferentially at shorter C−C bonds with higher double bond characters. The findings will open new possibilities for the practical synthesis of custom‐designed π‐extended perylene materials.
Comparison of environmental and health acceptability of squatting and sitting toilets: A review
Authors: Salehfar Hanyieh , Torkalipour Asma , Karimi Seyydeh‐Amene , Fayyazi Hossein , Mahdavianpour Mostafa
Published: October 2024

In general, two types of sitting and squatting toilets are used by people in the world, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages from an environmental and health point of view. So far, no study has been done to compare these two types of toilets, precisely. Therefore, the precise comparison of these two types of toilets based on a simple literature review was the main purpose of this study. For this purpose, the amount of water consumption, toilet paper consumption, related diseases, ease of cleaning, odor problem, and the flexibility to equip with treatment and reuse systems in both types of toilets was compared. Squatting toilets is a better option in terms of water consumption, toilet paper consumption, ease of cleaning, and diseases related to body posture. In the case of infectious diseases, the sitting toilet has better conditions and in terms of flexibility to install the treatment and reuse systems, the conditions of both were almost similar. The odor problem in the sitting toilet is less than the squatting toilet. Since the advantages and disadvantages of both types of toilets are also complementary, the best option is to install both toilets together.
Seismic design of steel moment‐resisting knee‐braced frame system by failure mode control
Authors: Sepahvand Mostafa Fathi , Lenwari Akhrawat
Published: October 2024

This paper presents the seismic design of a steel moment‐resisting knee‐braced frame (MKF) using the theory of plastic mechanism control (TPMC) within the capacity‐based design framework. The MKF is an alternative system to MRFs, wherein knee elements are utilized to provide rigid connections and enhance lateral stiffness. Capacity‐based design, the predominant approach in current seismic provisions, relies on two key principles: (1) selecting specific structural components as fuses with sufficient ductility to dissipate seismic energy, and (2) ensuring non‐fuse elements can resist the maximum probable reactions from these fuses. The ultimate goal is to achieve a global mechanism where yielding occurs in all structural fuses and at the base of first‐story columns. However, existing seismic design provisions often struggle to fully satisfy the second principle due to the lack of a method for controlling failure modes. TPMC addresses this challenge by ensuring compliance with the second principle, grounding its approach in the kinematic method and the mechanism equilibrium curve within the rigid‐plastic analysis framework. By considering all potential story‐based undesirable mechanisms and calculating the required plastic moment of columns up to a target design displacement, TPMC ensures adherence to the second principle of the capacity‐based design approach, leading to the achievement of a global collapse mechanism. In this paper, an iterative method is proposed for designing beams and knee elements by considering plastic hinges at both ends of the beams, followed by a TPMC‐based methodology for designing columns to ensure a global mechanism. A parametric analysis of a single‐story single‐span MKF explores the effects of knee element geometry ( and ) on component demands. The results indicate that optimal parameter ranges of and can minimize the demands for MKF components. Practical design examples are illustrated using three steel MKFs, each consisting of four, seven, and ten stories with five spans. Pushover analysis and nonlinear dynamic analyses were performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design procedure in ensuring the attainment of a global mechanism and excellent seismic performance under real ground motions.
Target‐drift seismic‐force‐based design of one‐story reinforced concrete precast buildings considering the requirements of the second generation of the Eurocode 8 standard
Authors: Isaković Tatjana
Published: October 2024

Results are presented concerning the force‐based design of a wide range of reinforced concrete, single‐story precast buildings, considering the requirements of the new Eurocode 8 standard. The relevant criterion defining the cross‐sectional dimensions of the columns was the 2% drift limitation. Buildings were designed considering a behavior factor of 3 and a 50% reduction in stiffness corresponding to the gross cross‐section. The design evaluation, using a nonlinear pushover analysis, revealed that all the buildings could expect approximately twice the drift considered in the design with significant second‐order effects, particularly in very tall columns. The main reasons for large discrepancies between the elastic and nonlinear analyses were the arbitrarily selected behavior factor and the arbitrarily selected reduction in stiffness corresponding to the gross cross‐section (the stiffness considered in the design was approximately double what the nonlinear analysis revealed). The analysis revealed that these two quantities are closely correlated. Once the dimensions of the columns had been selected, the force and initial stiffness reduction could not be chosen arbitrarily. Correlations were determined between the column dimensions, theoretical stiffness reduction, seismic force reduction (behavior factor) and second‐order effects. From these correlations, a new target‐drift force‐based design methodology was proposed. All considered buildings were redesigned using the proposed method. The results of the new design and the nonlinear‐pushover‐based analysis correlated well.
Research on high‐pressure abrasive water jet slotting and pressure relief technology for hard rock roof
Authors: Zhenfei Huang , Wenbin Wu
Published: October 2024

To solve the problem of severe rock pressure near coal mining face tunnels, a high‐pressure abrasive water jet slotting and roof breaking pressure relief technology is proposed. First, the laneway deformation mechanism and the process of hard rock slotting using high‐pressure abrasive water jets under long‐distance cantilever conditions are analyzed, and the crack initiation conditions of roof strata are obtained. Second, slotting tests under different slotting pressures, nozzle diameters, abrasive particle sizes and slotting times were carried out, and the slotting parameters of a high‐pressure abrasive water jet on a typical roof rock were obtained. Finally, industrial application was carried out in the 81,403 working face of Huayang No.1 Mine. After the hydraulic roof slotting measures were implemented in the test area, the maximum axial force of the anchor cable was reduced to 67 kN, which was 35.5% lower than that of the comparison. The average stress of the coal seam was 15 MPa, which was approximately 25% lower than that of the comparison. The deformation of the tunnel in the experimental area was significantly controlled, with an average movement of 30.0% toward the roof and floor of the tunnel and an average movement of 23.2% toward the two sides of the tunnel. Compared with the movement in the comparison section, the movement toward the roof and floor of the laneway was 42.3% lower, and the movement toward the two sides was 38.2% lower. The industrial application results show that high‐pressure abrasive water jet roof slotting and pressure relief technology can cut off the stress transmission path between the roof rock on both sides, effectively improve the stress state of the surrounding rock of the laneway, reduce the deformation of the roof, floor and two sides of the working face in the later stage of the mining laneway.
Enhanced Cooperative Compressive Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Benzater Hadj Abdelkader , Teguig Djamal , Lassami Nacerredine
Published: October 2024

The demand for bandwidth in cognitive radio networks (CRNs) is growing as applications become increasingly data intensive. Techniques such as compressed spectrum sensing (CSS) and cooperative spectrum sensing (C‐SS) are employed to address this challenge. C‐SS enhances overall detection accuracy and reliability by enabling multiple nodes to share and combine their local sensing data. Conversely, CSS effectively reduces the required information for spectrum usage decision making, thereby improving bandwidth utilization. Integrating these two methods allows CRNs to utilize the spectrum reliably and efficiently, leading to increased spectral efficiency. To further improve reconstruction performance, we leverage the sparsity concept to transcend hardware constraints and merge restrictions from both real and synthesized channels. This approach involves the virtual synthesis of channels, which linearly enhances the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) within the network's size range. Simulation results demonstrate that our proposed method offers significant advantages over single‐node recovery, as validated by simulations and software defined radio (SDR) Implementation. The integration of spectral estimations from various local CR detectors enhances spatial diversity gain and sensing quality, particularly in fading channels. Compared to traditional approaches, our method achieves superior performance, evidenced by an increase in (from 93.97% to 96.52%) with almost the same .
Performance Analysis of Free Space Optical System Over Inverse Gaussian Gamma Turbulence Channel
Authors: Rani Rekha , Jayanthi N. , Mandpura Anup K.
Published: October 2024

Free space optical (FSO) communication is a proficient technology with potential applications in the next generation of wireless communication. This article evaluates the performance of the FSO system under inverse Gaussian gamma (IGG) fading. A novel closed‐form equation for the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the received signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) is presented by employing an intensity modulation/direct detection (IM/DD) scheme. The analytical expressions for various performance metrics such as outage probability (OP), amount of fading (AOF), and average bit error probability (ABEP) are derived for various digital modulation schemes based on the system's probability density function (PDF) and CDF. Additionally, this article presents an upper bound on OP and asymptotic analysis for the performance metrics to gain deeper insights. It is revealed that the small‐scale eddy turbulence parameter can affect the diversity order by a factor of β/2. The results demonstrate that atmospheric turbulence considerably reduces the system's performance. Finally, Monte‐Carlo simulation is performed to ascertain the correctness of the derived mathematical expressions.
Converting the unconverted: Narrative and affect in a South African non‐governmental organization
Authors: Reed Amber R.
Published: October 2024

The Sonke Gender Justice Network, a South African non‐governmental organization that strives for gender equity and strengthening democratic institutions, was founded in 2006 and has a long history of diverse community programming and advocacy. In this paper, I draw on ethnographic work conducted within the organization's walls to show the ways in which employees’ narratives of becoming part of Sonke mirror the structure and language of religious conversion narratives. Within these narratives, I use the theoretical framework of “economies of affect” to show how affective experiences and displays serve as valuable tools that employees use to reach community participants. I propose that this analysis allows us a unique lens into NGO work around gender equality, as it considers the importance of affect and conversion in the creation of liberal masculine subjects.
Comment on “Singh R, Vadlamani R, Bajpai S, Maurya AS (2024) Strontium Isotope Stratigraphy of Marine Oligocene–Miocene Sedimentary Successions of Kutch Basin, Western India. Geological Journal, 1–20. DOI: 10.1002/gj.4961”
Authors: Saraswati Pratul Kumar , Frijia Gianluca , Less György
Published: October 2024

This is a comment on the paper of Singh et al. (Geological Journal, 2024:1–20) on Strontium isotope stratigraphy of marine Oligocene–Miocene sedimentary successions of Kutch Basin, western India. Kutch hosts stratotypes of some lithostratigraphic and chronostratigraphic units of India. In this study, the Sr‐isotope estimated ages of the studied formations deviate significantly from their known ages based on biostratigraphy. The authors have not validated the interpreted ages with biostratigraphy. We believe a scrupulous screening of samples and validation of Sr‐isotope data with biostratigraphy are two essential requirements of Sr‐isotope stratigraphy. Unfortunately, Singh et al. made a new contribution to Kutch stratigraphy that falls short of meeting both conditions, leading to incorrect ages of the regional chronostratigraphic units of India.
Reply to Comment on “Singh R, Vadlamani R, Bajpai S & Maurya AS (2024) Strontium Isotope Stratigraphy of Marine Oligocene–Miocene Sedimentary Successions of Kutch Basin, Western India. Geological Journal, 1–20. DOI: 10.1002/gj.4961”
Authors: Singh Rimjhim , Vadlamani Ravikant , Bajpai Sunil , Maurya Abhayanand Singh
Published: October 2024

This response addresses the comments made by Saraswati et al. on our recent publication in Geological Journal. In our study, we used a multi‐analytical screening approach, including visual, XRD and trace element analysis, to evaluate diagenetic alteration of carbonate shell samples. Contrary to the claims made by Saraswati et al. our findings are based on well‐preserved samples with minimal alteration. The Sr‐isotope data from the Khari Nadi Formation (23.07–18.09 Ma) are largely consistent with existing biostratigraphic constraints, but suggest a possible extension of the upper age limit into the Burdigalian. Our Sr‐isotope ages for the Chhasra Formation (15.11–12.29 Ma) are younger than those suggested previously, based on larger benthic foraminifers, but largely corroborate recent nannoplankton data. As a result of the new age data from Kutch, we suggest that the sedimentation rates, derived from multiple samples, increased significantly from the Oligocene to Miocene. We assert that ‘established’ ages are also subject to refinements as the rock units become amenable to new dating techniques. We welcome any criticism that is constructive, and remain open to any further data that could refine or challenge our interpretations.