bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraints on the Spatial Distribution of Lunar Crustal Magnetic Sources From Orbital Magnetic Field Data
Authors: Oliveira Joana S. , Vervelidou Foteini , Wieczorek Mark A. , Díaz Michelena Marina
Published: February 2024

Spacecraft measurements show that the crust of the Moon is heterogeneously magnetized. The sources of these magnetic anomalies are yet not fully understood, with most not being related to known geological structures or processes. Here, we use an inversion methodology that relies on the assumption of unidirectional magnetization, commonly referred to as Parker's method, to elucidate the origin of the magnetic sources by constraining the location and geometry of the underlying magnetization. This method has been used previously to infer the direction of the underlying magnetization but it has not been tested as to whether it can infer the geometry of the source. The performance of the method is here assessed by conducting a variety of tests, using synthetic magnetized bodies of different geometries mimicking the main geological structures potentially magnetized within the lunar crust. Results from our tests show that this method successfully localizes and delineates the two‐dimensional surface projection of subsurface three‐dimensional magnetized bodies, provided their magnetization is close to unidirectional and the magnetic field data are of sufficient spatial resolution and reasonable signal‐to‐noise ratio. We applied this inversion method to two different lunar magnetic anomalies, the Mendel‐Rydberg impact basin and the Reiner Gamma swirl. For Mendel‐Rydberg, our analysis shows that the strongest magnetic sources are located within the basin's inner ring, whereas for Reiner Gamma, the strongest magnetic sources form a narrow dike‐like body that emanates from the center of the Marius Hills volcanic complex.
Local Volume Solvers for Earth System Data Assimilation: Implementation in the Framework for Joint Effort for Data Assimilation Integration
Authors: Frolov Sergey , Shlyaeva Anna , Huang Wei , Sluka Travis , Draper Clara , Huang Bo , Martin Cory , Elless Travis , Bhargava Kriti , Whitaker Jeff
Published: February 2024

The Joint Effort for Data assimilation Integration (JEDI) is an international collaboration aimed at developing an open software ecosystem for model agnostic data assimilation. This paper considers implementation of the model‐agnostic family of the local volume solvers in the JEDI framework. The implemented solvers include the Local Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter (LETKF), the Gain form of the Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter (GETKF), and the optimal interpolation variant of the LETKF (LETKF‐OI). This paper documents the implementation strategy for the family of the local volume solvers within the JEDI framework. We also document an expansive set of localization approaches that includes generic distance‐based localization, localization based on modulated ensemble products, and localizations specific to ocean (based on the Rossby radius of deformation), and land (based on the terrain difference between observation and model grid point). Finally, we apply the developed solvers in a limited set of experiments, including single‐observation experiments in atmosphere and ocean, and cycling experiments for the atmosphere, ocean, land, and aerosol assimilation. We also illustrate how JEDI Ensemble Kalman Filter solvers can be used in a strongly coupled framework using the interface solver approximation, which provides increments to the ocean based on observations from the ocean and atmosphere.
Calcareous Nannofossils and Paleoclimatic Evolution Across the Eocene‐Oligocene Transition at IODP Site U1509, Tasman Sea, Southwest Pacific Ocean
Authors: Viganò A. , Dallanave E. , Alegret L. , Westerhold T. , Sutherland R. , Dickens G. R. , Newsam C. , Agnini C.
Published: February 2024

The Eocene‐Oligocene transition (EOT; ∼34 Ma) was one of the most prominent global cooling events of the Cenozoic, coincident with the emergence of continental‐scale ice‐sheets on Antarctica. Calcareous nannoplankton experienced significant assemblage turnover at a time of long‐term surface ocean cooling and trophic conditions, suggesting cause‐effect relationships between Antarctic glaciation, broader climate changes, and the response of phytoplankton communities. To better evaluate the timing and nature of these relationships, we generated calcareous nannofossil and geochemical data sets (δ18O, δ13C and %CaCO3) over a ∼5 Myr stratigraphic interval recovered across the EOT from IODP Site U1509 in the Tasman Sea, South Pacific Ocean. Based on trends observed in the calcareous nannofossil assemblages, there was an overall decline of warm‐oligotrophic communities, with a shift toward taxa better adapted to cooler more eutrophic conditions. Assemblage changes indicate four distinct phases caused by temperature decrease and variations in paleocurrents: late Eocene warm‐oligotrophic phase, precursor diversity‐decrease phase, early Oligocene cold‐eutrophic phase, and a steady‐state cosmopolitan phase. The most prominent shift in the assemblages occurred during the ∼550 kyr‐long precursor diversity‐decrease phase, which has relatively high bulk δ18O and %CaCO3 values, and predates the phase of maximum glacial expansion (Earliest Oligocene Glacial Maximum–EOGM).
Ionospheric Disturbances Generated by the 2015 Calbuco Eruption: Comparison of GITM‐R Simulations and GNSS Observations
Authors: Tyska J. , Deng Y. , Zhang S. , Lin C. Y.
Published: February 2024

Volcanic eruptions provide broad spectral forcing to the atmosphere and understanding the primary mechanisms that are relevant to explain the variety in waveform characteristics in the Ionosphere‐Thermosphere (IT) is still an important open question for the community. In this study, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Total Electron Content (TEC) data are analyzed and compared to simulations performed by the Global Ionosphere‐Thermosphere Model with Local Mesh Refinement (GITM‐R) for the first phase of the 2015 Calbuco eruption that occurred on 22 April. A simplified source representation and spectral acoustic‐gravity wave (AGW) propagation model are used to specify the perturbation at the lower boundary of GITM‐R at 100 km altitude. Two assumptions on the propagation structure, Direct Spherical (DS) and Ground Coupled (GC), are compared to the GNSS data and these modeling specifications show good agreement with different aspects of the observations for some waveform characteristics. Most notably, GITM‐R is able to reproduce the relative wave amplitude of AGWs as a function of radial distance from the vent, showing acoustic dominant forcing in the near field (<500 km) and gravity dominant forcing in the far‐field (>500 km). The estimated apparent phase speeds from GITM‐R simulations are consistent with observations with ∼10% difference from observation for both acoustic wave packets and a trailing gravity mode. The relevance of the simplifications made in the lower atmosphere to the simulated IT response is then discussed.
Decoding the Dialogue Between Clouds and Land
Authors: Su Tianning , Li Zhanqing
Published: February 2024

New research is challenging established assumptions about how clouds form and interact with Earth’s surface. One result may be better weather forecasts.
Skin color influences transcutaneous bilirubin measurements: a systematic in vitro evaluation
Authors: Dam-Vervloet Alida J. , Morsink Claudia F. , Krommendijk Marleen E. , Nijholt Ingrid M. , van Straaten Henrica L. M. , Poot Lieke , Bosschaart Nienke
Published: February 2024

Objective

Concerns have been raised about the effect of skin color on the accuracy of transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurements, a widely used method for hyperbilirubinemia diagnosis in newborns. Literature is inconclusive, with both reported under- and overestimations of the TcB with increasing skin pigmentation. Therefore, the influence of skin color on TcB measurements was systematically evaluated in a controlled, in vitro setting.

Methods

A bilirubin meter (JM-105) was evaluated on layered phantoms that mimic neonatal skin with varying dermal bilirubin concentrations (0–250 µmol/L) and varying epidermal melanosome volume fractions (0–40%; light-dark skin color).

Results

TcB measurements were influenced by skin pigmentation. Larger mimicked melanosome volume fractions and higher bilirubin levels led to larger underestimations of the measured TcB, compared to an unpigmented epidermis. In the in vitro setting of this study, these underestimations amounted to 26–132 µmol/L at a TcB level of 250 µmol/L.

Conclusion

This in vitro study provides insight into the effect of skin color on TcB measurements: the TcB is underestimated as skin pigmentation increases and this effect becomes more pronounced at higher bilirubin levels. Our results highlight the need for improved TcB meter design and cautious interpretation of TcB readings on newborns with dark skin.

Impact

Key message: Skin color influences transcutaneous bilirubin measurements: the darker the skin, the larger the underestimation.

What this study adds to existing literature: Existing literature is inconclusive regarding the influence of skin color on transcutaneous bilirubin measurements. This study systematically evaluates and clarifies the influence of skin color on transcutaneous bilirubin measurements in a controlled, in vitro setting.

Impact: This study aids to better interpret the measured TcB level in patients with varying skin colors, and is particularly important when using TcB meters on patients with dark skin colors.
Elucidation of the role of metals in the adsorption and photodegradation of herbicides by metal-organic frameworks
Authors: Chiu Nan Chieh , Lessard Jacob M. , Musa Emmanuel Nyela , Lancaster Logan S. , Wheeler Clara , Krueger Taylor D. , Chen Cheng , Gallagher Trenton C. , Nord Makenzie T. , Huang Hongliang , Cheong Paul Ha-Yeon , Fang Chong , Stylianou Kyriakos C.
Published: February 2024

Here, four MOFs, namely Sc-TBAPy, Al-TBAPy, Y-TBAPy, and Fe-TBAPy (TBAPy: 1,3,6,8-tetrakis(p-benzoic acid)pyrene), were characterized and evaluated for their ability to remediate glyphosate (GP) from water. Among these materials, Sc-TBAPy demonstrates superior performance in both the adsorption and degradation of GP. Upon light irradiation for 5 min, Sc-TBAPy completely degrades 100% of GP in a 1.5 mM aqueous solution. Femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy reveals that Sc-TBAPy exhibits enhanced charge transfer character compared to the other MOFs, as well as suppressed formation of emissive excimers that could impede photocatalysis. This finding was further supported by hydrogen evolution half-reaction (HER) experiments, which demonstrated Sc-TBAPy’s superior catalytic activity for water splitting. In addition to its faster adsorption and more efficient photodegradation of GP, Sc-TBAPy also followed a selective pathway towards the oxidation of GP, avoiding the formation of toxic aminomethylphosphonic acid observed with the other M3+-TBAPy MOFs. To investigate the selectivity observed with Sc-TBAPy, electron spin resonance, depleted oxygen conditions, and solvent exchange with D2O were employed to elucidate the role of different reactive oxygen species on GP photodegradation. The findings indicate that singlet oxygen (1O2) plays a critical role in the selective photodegradation pathway achieved by Sc-TBAPy.
Mechanisms of extracellular electron transfer in anaerobic methanotrophic archaea
Authors: Ouboter Heleen T. , Mesman Rob , Sleutels Tom , Postma Jelle , Wissink Martijn , Jetten Mike S. M. , Ter Heijne Annemiek , Berben Tom , Welte Cornelia U.
Published: February 2024

Anaerobic methanotrophic (ANME) archaea are environmentally important, uncultivated microorganisms that oxidize the potent greenhouse gas methane. During methane oxidation, ANME archaea engage in extracellular electron transfer (EET) with other microbes, metal oxides, and electrodes through unclear mechanisms. Here, we cultivate ANME-2d archaea (‘Ca. Methanoperedens’) in bioelectrochemical systems and observe strong methane-dependent current (91–93% of total current) associated with high enrichment of ‘Ca. Methanoperedens’ on the anode (up to 82% of the community), as determined by metagenomics and transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical and metatranscriptomic analyses suggest that the EET mechanism is similar at various electrode potentials, with the possible involvement of an uncharacterized short-range electron transport protein complex and OmcZ nanowires.
Regulation of long-range BMP gradients and embryonic polarity by propagation of local calcium-firing activity
Authors: Lee Hyung Chul , Oliveira Nidia M. M. , Hastings Cato , Baillie-Benson Peter , Moverley Adam A. , Lu Hui-Chun , Zheng Yi , Wilby Elise L. , Weil Timothy T. , Page Karen M. , Fu Jianping , Moris Naomi , Stern Claudio D.
Published: February 2024

Many amniote vertebrate species including humans can form identical twins from a single embryo, but this only occurs rarely. It has been suggested that the primitive-streak-forming embryonic region emits signals that inhibit streak formation elsewhere but the signals involved, how they are transmitted and how they act has not been elucidated. Here we show that short tracks of calcium firing activity propagate through extraembryonic tissue via gap junctions and prevent ectopic primitive streak formation in chick embryos. Cross-regulation of calcium activity and an inhibitor of primitive streak formation (Bone Morphogenetic Protein, BMP) via NF-κB and NFAT establishes a long-range BMP gradient spanning the embryo. This mechanism explains how embryos of widely different sizes can maintain positional information that determines embryo polarity. We provide evidence for similar mechanisms in two different human embryo models and in Drosophila, suggesting an ancient evolutionary origin.
A consistent map in the medial entorhinal cortex supports spatial memory
Authors: Malone Taylor J. , Tien Nai-Wen , Ma Yan , Cui Lian , Lyu Shangru , Wang Garret , Nguyen Duc , Zhang Kai , Myroshnychenko Maxym V. , Tyan Jean , Gordon Joshua A. , Kupferschmidt David A. , Gu Yi
Published: February 2024

The medial entorhinal cortex (MEC) is hypothesized to function as a cognitive map for memory-guided navigation. How this map develops during learning and influences memory remains unclear. By imaging MEC calcium dynamics while mice successfully learned a novel virtual environment over ten days, we discovered that the dynamics gradually became more spatially consistent and then stabilized. Additionally, grid cells in the MEC not only exhibited improved spatial tuning consistency, but also maintained stable phase relationships, suggesting a network mechanism involving synaptic plasticity and rigid recurrent connectivity to shape grid cell activity during learning. Increased c-Fos expression in the MEC in novel environments further supports the induction of synaptic plasticity. Unsuccessful learning lacked these activity features, indicating that a consistent map is specific for effective spatial memory. Finally, optogenetically disrupting spatial consistency of the map impaired memory-guided navigation in a well-learned environment. Thus, we demonstrate that the establishment of a spatially consistent MEC map across learning both correlates with, and is necessary for, successful spatial memory.
Oxygen-tolerant CO2 electroreduction over covalent organic frameworks via photoswitching control oxygen passivation strategy
Authors: Zhu Hong-Jing , Si Duan-Hui , Guo Hui , Chen Ziao , Cao Rong , Huang Yuan-Biao
Published: February 2024

The direct use of flue gas for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction is desirable but severely limited by the thermodynamically favorable oxygen reduction reaction. Herein, a photonicswitching unit 1,2-Bis(5’-formyl-2’-methylthien-3’-yl)cyclopentene (DAE) is integrated into a cobalt porphyrin-based covalent organic framework for highly efficient CO2 electrocatalysis under aerobic environment. The DAE moiety in the material can reversibly modulate the O2 activation capacity and electronic conductivity by the framework ring-closing/opening reactions under UV/Vis irradiation. The DAE-based covalent organic framework with ring-closing type shows a high CO Faradaic efficiency of 90.5% with CO partial current density of −20.1 mA cm−2 at −1.0 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode by co-feeding CO2 and 5% O2. This work presents an oxygen passivation strategy to realize efficient CO2 electroreduction performance by co-feeding of CO2 and O2, which would inspire to design electrocatalysts for the practical CO2 source such as flue gas from power plants or air.
Tuning ferroelectric phase transition temperature by enantiomer fraction
Authors: Fan Chang-Chun , Liu Cheng-Dong , Liang Bei-Dou , Wang Wei , Jin Ming-Liang , Chai Chao-Yang , Jing Chang-Qing , Ju Tong-Yu , Han Xiang-Bin , Zhang Wen
Published: February 2024

Tuning phase transition temperature is one of the central issues in phase transition materials. Herein, we report a case study of using enantiomer fraction engineering as a promising strategy to tune the Curie temperature (TC) and related properties of ferroelectrics. A series of metal-halide perovskite ferroelectrics (S−3AMP)x(R−3AMP)1−xPbBr4 was synthesized where 3AMP is the 3-(aminomethyl)piperidine divalent cation and enantiomer fraction x varies between 0 and 1 (0 and 1 = enantiomers; 0.5 = racemate). With the change of the enantiomer fraction, the TC, second-harmonic generation intensity, degree of circular polarization of photoluminescence, and photoluminescence intensity of the materials have been tuned. Particularly, when x = 0.70 − 1, a continuously linear tuning of the TC is achieved, showing a tunable temperature range of about 73 K. This strategy provides an effective means and insights for regulating the phase transition temperature and chiroptical properties of functional materials.
Assessing the efficacy of target adaptive sampling long-read sequencing through hereditary cancer patient genomes
Authors: Nakamura Wataru , Hirata Makoto , Oda Satoyo , Chiba Kenichi , Okada Ai , Mateos Raúl Nicolás , Sugawa Masahiro , Iida Naoko , Ushiama Mineko , Tanabe Noriko , Sakamoto Hiromi , Sekine Shigeki , Hirasawa Akira , Kawai Yosuke , Tokunaga Katsushi ,   NCBN Controls WGS Consortium, Ishibashi-Ueda Hatsue , Tomita Tsutomu , Noguchi Michio , Takahashi Ayako , Goto Yu-ichi , Yoshida Sumiko , Hattori Kotaro , Matsumura Ryo , Iida Aritoshi , Maruoka Yutaka , Gatanaga Hiroyuki , Sugiyama Masaya , Suzuki Satoshi , Miyo Kengo , Matsubara Yoichi , Umezawa Akihiro , Hata Kenichiro , Kaname Tadashi , Ozaki Kouichi , Tokuda Haruhiko , Watanabe Hiroshi , Niida Shumpei , Noiri Eisei , Kitajima Koji , Omae Yosuke , Miyahara Reiko , Shimanuki Hideyuki , Tsujimoto Shin-ichi , Shiba Norio , Ito Shuichi , Yoshida Teruhiko , Shiraishi Yuichi
Published: February 2024

Innovations in sequencing technology have led to the discovery of novel mutations that cause inherited diseases. However, many patients with suspected genetic diseases remain undiagnosed. Long-read sequencing technologies are expected to significantly improve the diagnostic rate by overcoming the limitations of short-read sequencing. In addition, Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) offers adaptive sampling and computationally driven target enrichment technology. This enables more affordable intensive analysis of target gene regions compared to standard non-selective long-read sequencing. In this study, we developed an efficient computational workflow for target adaptive sampling long-read sequencing (TAS-LRS) and evaluated it through application to 33 genomes collected from suspected hereditary cancer patients. Our workflow can identify single nucleotide variants with nearly the same accuracy as the short-read platform and elucidate complex forms of structural variations. We also newly identified several SINE-R/VNTR/Alu (SVA) elements affecting the APC gene in two patients with familial adenomatous polyposis, as well as their sites of origin. In addition, we demonstrated that off-target reads from adaptive sampling, which is typically discarded, can be effectively used to accurately genotype common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across the entire genome, enabling the calculation of a polygenic risk score. Furthermore, we identified allele-specific MLH1 promoter hypermethylation in a Lynch syndrome patient. In summary, our workflow with TAS-LRS can simultaneously capture monogenic risk variants including complex structural variations, polygenic background as well as epigenetic alterations, and will be an efficient platform for genetic disease research and diagnosis.
High-intensity acute exercise impacts motor learning in healthy older adults
Authors: Taylor Eleanor M. , Cadwallader Claire J. , Curtin Dylan , Chong Trevor T.-J. , Hendrikse Joshua J. , Coxon James P.
Published: February 2024

Healthy aging is associated with changes in motor sequence learning, with some studies indicating decline in motor skill learning in older age. Acute cardiorespiratory exercise has emerged as a potential intervention to improve motor learning, however research in healthy older adults is limited. The current study investigated the impact of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIT) on a subsequent sequential motor learning task. Twenty-four older adults (aged 55–75 years) completed either 20-minutes of cycling, or an equivalent period of active rest before practicing a sequential force grip task. Skill learning was assessed during acquisition and at a 6-hour retention test. In contrast to expectation, exercise was associated with reduced accuracy during skill acquisition compared to rest, particularly for the oldest participants. However, improvements in motor skill were retained in the exercise condition, while a reduction in skill was observed following rest. Our findings indicate that high-intensity exercise conducted immediately prior to learning a novel motor skill may have a negative impact on motor performance during learning in older adults. We also demonstrated that exercise may facilitate early offline consolidation of a motor skill within this population, which has implications for motor rehabilitation.
Protective efficacy of a Zika purified inactivated virus vaccine candidate during pregnancy in marmosets
Authors: Kim In-Jeong , Gonzalez Olga , Tighe Michael P. , Lanthier Paula A. , Clark Madeline J. , Travis Kelsey L. , Low-Beer Timothy C. , Lanzer Kathleen G. , Bernacki Derek T. , Szaba Frank M. , De La Barrera Rafael A. , Dussupt Vincent , Mendez-Rivera Letzibeth , Krebs Shelly J. , Ross Corinna N. , Mdaki Stephanie D. , Brasky Kathleen M. , Layne-Colon Donna , Tardif Suzette D. , Thomas Stephen J. , Modjarrad Kayvon , Blackman Marcia A. , Patterson Jean L.
Published: February 2024

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy poses significant threats to maternal and fetal health, leading to intrauterine fetal demise and severe developmental malformations that constitute congenital Zika syndrome (CZS). As such, the development of a safe and effective ZIKV vaccine is a critical public health priority. However, the safety and efficacy of such a vaccine during pregnancy remain uncertain. Historically, the conduct of clinical trials in pregnant women has been challenging. Therefore, clinically relevant animal pregnancy models are in high demand for testing vaccine efficacy. We previously reported that a marmoset pregnancy model of ZIKV infection consistently demonstrated vertical transmission from mother to fetus during pregnancy. Using this marmoset model, we also showed that vertical transmission could be prevented by pre-pregnancy vaccination with Zika purified inactivated virus (ZPIV) vaccine. Here, we further examined the efficacy of ZPIV vaccination during pregnancy. Vaccination during pregnancy elicited virus neutralizing antibody responses that were comparable to those elicited by pre-pregnancy vaccination. Vaccination also reduced placental pathology, viral burden and vertical transmission of ZIKV during pregnancy, without causing adverse effects. These results provide key insights into the safety and efficacy of ZPIV vaccination during pregnancy and demonstrate positive effects of vaccination on the reduction of ZIKV infection, an important advance in preparedness for future ZIKV outbreaks.
The draft genome of Spiraea crenata L. (Rosaceae) – the first complete genome in tribe Spiraeeae
Authors: Laczkó Levente , Jordán Sándor , Póliska Szilárd , Rácz Hanna Viktória , Nagy Nikoletta Andrea , Molnár V. Attila , Sramkó Gábor
Published: February 2024

Spiraea crenata L. is a deciduous shrub distributed across the Eurasian steppe zone. The species is of cultural and horticultural importance and occurs in scattered populations throughout its westernmost range. Currently, there is no genomic information on the tribe of Spiraeeae. Therefore we sequenced and assembled the whole genome of S. crenata using second- and third-generation sequencing and a hybrid assembly approach to expand genomic resources for conservation and support research on this horticulturally important lineage. In addition to the organellar genomes (the plastome and the mitochondrion), we present the first draft genome of the species with an estimated size of 220 Mbp, an N50 value of 7.7 Mbp, and a BUSCO score of 96.0%. Being the first complete genome in tribe Spiraeeae, this may not only be the first step in the genomic study of a rare plant but also a contribution to genomic resources supporting the study of biodiversity and evolutionary history of Rosaceae.
Identification of factors affecting student academic burnout in online education during the COVID-19 pandemic using grey Delphi and grey-DEMATEL techniques
Authors: Aria Andrea , Jafari Parivash , Behifar Maryam
Published: February 2024

The coronavirus outbreak caused most education institutions to shift to online education. One of the consequences of the pandemic and spread of online education was the prevalence of academic burnout among students has been students' academic burnout. Accordingly, it is necessary to identify the influential factors to reduce burnout. This study aimed to identify the factors affecting academic burnout and their cause-effect relationships. For this purpose, to conduct the gray Delphi technique, a questionnaire was administered to a randomly selected sample consisted of 86 graduate students of the Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch. In addition, a randomly selected sample of 37 graduate students filled a matrix questionnaire Collected data were analyzed using the Gray-DEMATEL technique. As a result of Gray Delphi screening, out of the 43 sub-factors identified, six sub-factors were eliminated and 37 sub-factors in 7 main factors were determined as factors affecting students' academic burnout. Analysis of the collected data using the Grey-DEMATEL technique revealed that among the seven main factors, Technology infrastructure, institutional facilities, and faculty characteristics are in the net cause category, respectively. The classroom environment and course structure, the social-emotional factor, the characteristics of students, and the home and family environment are in the net effect category. Technology infrastructure is the most influential factor that affects other factors. Identifying effective factors and the causal relationships between them have significant implications for policymakers and academic planners to prevent and reduce student burnout in online environment by focusing on the most influential factors.
Sustainable intensification of climate-resilient maize–chickpea system in semi-arid tropics through assessing factor productivity
Authors: Salakinkop S. R. , Talekar S. C. , Patil C. R. , Patil S. B. , Jat S. L. , Iliger K. S. , Manjulatha G. , Harlapur S. I. , Kachapur R. M.
Published: February 2024

Global trends show that the rapid increase in maize production is associated more with the expansion of maize growing areas than with rapid increases in yield. This is possible through achieving possible higher productivity through maize production practices intensification to meet the sustainable production. Therefore, a field experiment on “Ecological intensification of climate-resilient maize–chickpea cropping system” was conducted during consecutive three years from 2017–2018 to 2019–2020 at Main Agricultural Research Station, Dharwad, Karnataka, India. Results of three years pooled data revealed that ecological intensification (EI) treatment which comprises of all best management practices resulted in higher grain yield (7560 kg/ha) and stover yield compared to farmers’ practice (FP) and all other treatments which were deficit in one or other crop management practices. Similarly, in the succeeding winter season, significantly higher chickpea yield (797 kg/ha) was recorded in EI. Further EI practice recorded significant amount of soil organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and iron after completion of third cycle of experimentation (0.60%, 235.3 kg/ha,21.0 kg/ha,363.2 kg/ha,0.52 ppm and 5.2 ppm respectively). Soil enzymatic activity was also improved in EI practice over the years and improvement in each year was significant. Lower input energy use was in FP (17,855.2 MJ/ha). Whereas total output energy produced was the highest in EI practice (220,590 MJ ha−1) and lower output energy was recorded in EI–integrated nutrient management (INM) (149,255 MJ/ha). Lower energy productivity was noticed in EI-INM. Lower specific energy was recorded in FP and was followed by EI practice. Whereas higher specific energy was noticed is EI–INM. Each individual year and pooled data showed that EI practice recorded higher net return and benefit–cost ratio. The lower net returns were obtained in EI-integrated weed management (Rs. 51354.7/ha), EI-recommended irrigation management (Rs. 56,015.3/ha), integrated pest management (Rs. 59,569.7/ha) and farmers’ practice (Rs. 67,357.7/ha) which were on par with others.
Identification of unique genomic signatures in patients with fibromyalgia and chronic pain
Authors: Mohapatra Gayatry , Dachet Fabien , Coleman Louis J. , Gillis Bruce , Behm Frederick G.
Published: February 2024

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain syndrome characterized by widespread pain. The pathophysiology of fibromyalgia is not clearly understood and there are no specific biomarkers available for accurate diagnosis. Here we define genomic signatures using high throughput RNA sequencing on 96 fibromyalgia and 93 control cases. Our findings revealed three major fibromyalgia-associated expression signatures. The first group included 43 patients with a signature enriched for gene expression associated with extracellular matrix and downregulation of RhoGDI signaling pathway. The second group included 30 patients and showed a profound reduction in the expression of inflammatory mediators with an increased expression of genes involved in the CLEAR signaling pathway. These results suggest defective tissue homeostasis associated with the extra-cellular matrix and cellular program that regulates lysosomal biogenesis and participates in macromolecule clearance in fibromyalgia. The third group of 17 FM patients showed overexpression of pathways that control acute inflammation and dysfunction of the global transcriptional process. The result of this study indicates that FM is a heterogeneous and complex disease. Further elucidation of these pathways will lead to the development of accurate diagnostic markers, and effective therapeutic options for fibromyalgia.
Association of dietary inflammatory index with C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 in women with and without polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Azarbayjani Khadijeh , Jahanian Sadatmahalleh Shahideh , Mottaghi Azadeh , Nasiri Maliheh
Published: February 2024

Considering that interventions related to lifestyle, especially nutrition have been proposed as the first line of prevention and treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and regarding the proven relationship between PCOS and inflammation, the present study was designed to find out the possible association of Diet Inflammatory Index (DII) with the inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and compare the obtained results in PCOS and non-PCOS women. This case–control study was conducted on 45 PCOS and 40 non-PCOS women. Food intake and DII were measured using a 147-item Food Frequency Questionnaire. All participants were tested for the serum levels of IL-6 and CRP. Finally, the obtained results were compared between the two groups of PCOS and non-PCOS women. Significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of age, menstrual status and number of pregnancies (P < 0.05). Comparison of DII values showed no significant difference between the two groups of women (P = 0.68), but IL-6 was significantly higher in the PCOS group than in the control group (4.94 ± 1.97 vs. 3.48 ± 1.77, P < 0.001). Also in terms of CRP, no significant difference was observed between the two groups (P > 0.05). The difference of DII between the case and control groups were not significant and Pearson's correlation test did not show a significant correlation between DII and IL-6 (P˃0.05). This result can be due to the influence of several factors affecting the determination of DII such as education level, health status, physical activity level, age, and calorie intake. It seems that diet, especially consumption of more carbohydrates plays a role in causing chronic inflammation, as well as the occurrence and exacerbation of PCOS.
Computational evaluation of zirconocene catalysts for ε-caprolactone cationic ring-opening polymerization
Authors: Meelua Wijitra , Wanjai Tanchanok , Jitonnom Jitrayut
Published: February 2024

This quantum chemical study presents the ligand effect and a structure–property relationship in the cationic ring-opening polymerization (CROP) of ε-caprolactone using zirconocene catalysts. We first examined the effects of catalyst structure on the initiation and chain propagation steps of the CROP process. A total of 54 catalyst structures were investigated to understand the influence of the ligand structure on the stability of the catalyst–monomer complex and polymerization activity. The properties of the catalysts were analyzed in terms of ancillary ligands, ligand substituents, and bridging units. Calculations showed that the polymerization follows a proposed cationic mechanism, with ring opening occurring via alkyl-bond cleavage. A correlation between complex stability and activation energy was also observed, with ligand substituents dominating in both steps. While the ancillary ligands directly affect the HOMO energy level, the bridges are mainly responsible for the catalyst geometries, resulting in reduced complex stability and higher activation energy for the propagation step. This study contributes to a better understanding of the structural characteristics of zirconocene catalysts, which offers guidance for improving CROP activities in lactone polymerization.
Machine learning base models to predict the punching shear capacity of posttensioned UHPC flat slabs
Authors: Ors Dina M. , Ramadan Mohamed , Maree Ahmed M. Farghal , Zaher Amr H. , Afifi Ahmed , Ebid Ahmed M.
Published: February 2024

The aim of this research is to present correction factors for the punching shear formulas of ACI-318 and EC2 design codes to adopt the punching capacity of post tensioned ultra-high-performance concrete (PT-UHPC) flat slabs. To achieve that goal, the results of previously tested PT-UHPC flat slabs were used to validate the developed finite element method (FEM) model in terms of punching shear capacity. Then, a parametric study was conducted using the validated FEM to generate two databases, each database included concrete compressive strength, strands layout, shear reinforcement capacity and the aspect ratio of the column besides the correction factor (the ratio between the FEM punching capacity and the design code punching capacity). The first considered design code in the first database was ACI-318 and in the second database was EC2. Finally, there different “Machine Learning” (ML) techniques manly “Genetic programming” (GP), “Artificial Neural Network” (ANN) and “Evolutionary Polynomial Regression” (EPR) were applied on the two generated databases to predict the correction factors as functions of the considered parameters. The results of the study indicated that all the developed (ML) models showed almost the same level of accuracy in terms of the punching ultimate load (about 96%) and the ACI-318 correction factor depends mainly on the concrete compressive strength and aspect ratio of the column, while the EC2 correction factor depends mainly on the concrete compressive strength and the shear reinforcement capacity.
Growing pains in Danish preschool children: a descriptive study
Authors: Hestbæk Lise , Lücking Amanda , Jensen Sarah Thurøe
Published: February 2024

This study provides a detailed description of growing pains in young Danish children as standardized diagnostic criteria are needed to avoid misclassifications of other musculoskeletal diagnoses. The study is nested in a cohort study of Danish preschool children. At baseline, parents completed a questionnaire with sociodemographic information. During the study, the parents received a text message every two weeks inquiring about musculoskeletal pain in the child. If pain was reported, a telephone interview about pain characteristics was conducted. The present study includes data from 2016 to 2019 with 777 children, aged 3–6 years of age at baseline. The prevalence of growing pains was 24–43%, depending on the definition. The pain occurred most frequently 1–3 times per week and most commonly in the lower legs, could be unilateral or bilateral and was usually without consequences. The prevalence increased with age, and there were no consistent associations with socio-economic factors. We suggest using Evan’s criteria with the addition of unilateral pain as standard diagnostic criteria in the future. We found no relation to periods of rapid growth and suggest that the term is a misnomer. Etiology and long-term courses of pain need to be explored in future studies.
Distributed asynchronous measurement system fusion estimation based on inverse covariance intersection algorithm
Authors: Guo Taishan , Wang Mingquan , Zhou Shuyu , Song Wenai
Published: February 2024

For state estimation of multi-source asynchronous measurement systems with measurement missing phenomena, this paper proposes a distributed sequential inverse covariance intersection (DSICI) fusion algorithm based on conditional Kalman filtering method. It is mainly divided into synchronized state space module, local filtering module and fusion estimation module. The missing measurements occurring in the system are modelled and described by a set of random variables obeying a Bernoulli distribution. The synchronized state space module uses a state iteration method to synchronize the asynchronous measurement system at the moment of measurement update and it ensures the integrity of the measurement information. The local filtering module uses a conditional Kalman filtering algorithm for filter estimation. The reliability of the local filtering results is guaranteed because the local estimator designs a method to interact information with the domain sensors. The fusion estimation module designs a DSICI fusion algorithm with higher accuracy and satisfying consistency, which fuses the filtering results provided by each sensor when the relevant information between multiple sensors is unknown. Simulation examples demonstrate the excellent performance of the proposed algorithm, with a 33% improvement in accuracy over existing algorithms and an iteration time of less than 3 ms.
Augmented human thermal discomfort in urban centers of the Arabian Peninsula
Authors: Ullah Safi , Aldossary Abdullah , Ullah Waheed , Al-Ghamdi Sami G.
Published: February 2024

Anthropogenic climate change has amplified human thermal discomfort in urban environments. Despite the considerable risks posed to public health, there is a lack of comprehensive research, evaluating the spatiotemporal changes in human thermal discomfort and its characteristics in hot-hyper arid regions, such as the Arabian Peninsula (AP). The current study analyzes spatiotemporal changes in human thermal discomfort categories and their characteristics in AP, using the newly developed high-resolution gridded ERA5-HEAT (Human thErmAl comforT) dataset for the period 1979–2022. In addition, the study assesses the interplay between the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) and El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) indices for the study period. The results reveal a significant increase in human thermal discomfort and its characteristics, with higher spatial variability in the AP region. The major urban centers in the southwestern, central, and southeastern parts of AP have experienced significant increases in human thermal discomfort (0.4–0.8 °C), with higher frequency and intensity of thermal stress during the study period. The temporal distribution demonstrates a linear increase in UTCI indices and their frequencies and intensities, particularly from 1998 onward, signifying a transition towards a hotter climate characterized by frequent, intense, and prolonged heat stress conditions. Moreover, the UTCI and ENSO indices exhibit a dipole pattern of correlation with a positive (negative) pattern in the southwestern (eastern parts) of AP. The study’s findings suggest that policymakers and urban planners need to prioritize public health and well-being in AP’s urban areas, especially for vulnerable groups, by implementing climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, and carefully designing future cities to mitigate the effects of heat stress.
Regular snoring is associated with uncontrolled hypertension
Authors: Lechat Bastien , Naik Ganesh , Appleton Sarah , Manners Jack , Scott Hannah , Nguyen Duc Phuc , Escourrou Pierre , Adams Robert , Catcheside Peter , Eckert Danny J.
Published: February 2024

Snoring may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease independent of other co-morbidities. However, most prior studies have relied on subjective, self-report, snoring evaluation. This study assessed snoring prevalence objectively over multiple months using in-home monitoring technology, and its association with hypertension prevalence. In this study, 12,287 participants were monitored nightly for approximately six months using under-the-mattress sensor technology to estimate the average percentage of sleep time spent snoring per night and the estimated apnea-hypopnea index (eAHI). Blood pressure cuff measurements from multiple daytime assessments were averaged to define uncontrolled hypertension based on mean systolic blood pressure≥140 mmHg and/or a mean diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg. Associations between snoring and uncontrolled hypertension were examined using logistic regressions controlled for age, body mass index, sex, and eAHI. Participants were middle-aged (mean ± SD; 50 ± 12 y) and most were male (88%). There were 2467 cases (20%) with uncontrolled hypertension. Approximately 29, 14 and 7% of the study population snored for an average of >10, 20, and 30% per night, respectively. A higher proportion of time spent snoring (75th vs. 5th; 12% vs. 0.04%) was associated with a ~1.9-fold increase (OR [95%CI]; 1.87 [1.63, 2.15]) in uncontrolled hypertension independent of sleep apnea. Multi-night objective snoring assessments and repeat daytime blood pressure recordings in a large global consumer sample, indicate that snoring is common and positively associated with hypertension. These findings highlight the potential clinical utility of simple, objective, and noninvasive methods to detect snoring and its potential adverse health consequences.
Costs of ribosomal RNA stabilization affect ribosome composition at maximum growth rate
Authors: Széliová Diana , Müller Stefan , Zanghellini Jürgen
Published: February 2024

Ribosomes are key to cellular self-fabrication and limit growth rate. While most enzymes are proteins, ribosomes consist of 1/3 protein and 2/3 ribonucleic acid (RNA) (in E. coli).

Here, we develop a mechanistic model of a self-fabricating cell, validated across diverse growth conditions. Through resource balance analysis (RBA), we explore the variation in maximum growth rate with ribosome composition, assuming constant kinetic parameters.

Our model highlights the importance of RNA instability. If we neglect it, RNA synthesis is always cheaper than protein synthesis, leading to an RNA-only ribosome at maximum growth rate. Upon accounting for RNA turnover, we find that a mixed ribosome composed of RNA and proteins maximizes growth rate. To account for RNA turnover, we explore two scenarios regarding the activity of RNases. In (a) degradation is proportional to RNA content. In (b) ribosomal proteins cooperatively mitigate RNA instability by protecting it from misfolding and subsequent degradation. In both cases, higher protein content elevates protein synthesis costs and simultaneously lowers RNA turnover expenses, resulting in mixed RNA-protein ribosomes. Only scenario (b) aligns qualitatively with experimental data across varied growth conditions.

Our research provides fresh insights into ribosome biogenesis and evolution, paving the way for understanding protein-rich ribosomes in archaea and mitochondria.
Positive epistasis drives clavulanic acid resistance in double mutant libraries of BlaC β-lactamase
Authors: Radojković Marko , Ubbink Marcellus
Published: February 2024

Phenotypic effects of mutations are highly dependent on the genetic backgrounds in which they occur, due to epistatic effects. To test how easily the loss of enzyme activity can be compensated for, we screen mutant libraries of BlaC, a β-lactamase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, for fitness in the presence of carbenicillin and the inhibitor clavulanic acid. Using a semi-rational approach and deep sequencing, we prepare four double-site saturation libraries and determine the relative fitness effect for 1534/1540 (99.6%) of the unique library members at two temperatures. Each library comprises variants of a residue known to be relevant for clavulanic acid resistance as well as residue 105, which regulates access to the active site. Variants with greatly improved fitness were identified within each library, demonstrating that compensatory mutations for loss of activity can be readily found. In most cases, the fittest variants are a result of positive epistasis, indicating strong synergistic effects between the chosen residue pairs. Our study sheds light on a role of epistasis in the evolution of functional residues and underlines the highly adaptive potential of BlaC.
Predatory synapsid ecomorphology signals growing dynamism of late Palaeozoic terrestrial ecosystems
Authors: Singh Suresh A. , Elsler Armin , Stubbs Thomas L. , Rayfield Emily J. , Benton Michael J.
Published: February 2024

Terrestrial ecosystems evolved substantially through the Palaeozoic, especially the Permian, gaining much new complexity, especially among predators. Key among these predators were non-mammalian synapsids. Predator ecomorphology reflect interactions with prey and competitors, which are key controls on carnivore diversity and ecology. Therefore, carnivorous synapsids may offer insight on wider ecological evolution as the first complex, tetrapod-dominated, terrestrial ecosystems formed through the late Palaeozoic. Using morphometric and phylogenetic comparative methods, we chart carnivorous synapsid trophic morphology from the latest Carboniferous to the earliest Triassic (307-251.2 Ma). We find a major morphofunctional shift in synapsid carnivory between the early and middle Permian, via the addition of new feeding modes increasingly specialised for greater biting power or speed that captures the growing antagonism and dynamism of terrestrial tetrapod predator-prey interactions. The further evolution of new hypo- and hypercarnivorous synapsids highlight the nascent intrinsic pressures and complexification of terrestrial ecosystems across the mid-late Permian.