bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Types of connected components of the singular locus of the moduli space of compact Riemann surfaces
Authors: Szmelter Jakub
Published: October 2024

In 2012  G. Bartolini and M. Izquierdo showed that all equisymmetric strata of Broughton’s stratification, corresponding to the actions of groups of order 2 and 3 on Riemann surfaces of genus g are contained in the same connected component $$\mathcal {C}_g^{2,3}$$

C
g

2
,
3

of the singular locus $$\mathcal {S}_g$$

S
g

. The other components that were known to the literature were those composed of points of certain single strata. This motivated the question of whether the singular locus can contain connected components different from $$\mathcal {C}_g^{2,3}$$

C
g

2
,
3

and being the union of at least two strata. The existence of such components was proved for infinitely many genera by G. Gromadzki and the author. In this paper, we will describe and classify all types of connected components of the singular locus. In particular, we prove that every connected component different than $$\mathcal {C}_g^{2,3}$$

C
g

2
,
3

coincides with some Cornalba component, and we give necessary and sufficient conditions for a cyclic action to define such a component.
Investigating 4D respiratory cone-beam CT imaging for thoracic interventions on robotic C-arm systems: a deformable phantom study
Authors: Reynolds Tess , Dillon Owen , Ma Yiqun , Hindley Nicholas , Stayman J. Webster , Bazalova-Carter Magdalena
Published: October 2024

Increasingly, interventional thoracic workflows utilize cone-beam CT (CBCT) to improve navigational and diagnostic yield. Here, we investigate the feasibility of implementing free-breathing 4D respiratory CBCT for motion mitigated imaging in patients unable to perform a breath-hold or without suspending mechanical ventilation during thoracic interventions. Circular 4D respiratory CBCT imaging trajectories were implemented on a clinical robotic CBCT system using additional real-time control hardware. The circular trajectories consisted of 1 × 360° circle at 0° tilt with fixed gantry velocities of 2°/s, 10°/s, and 20°/s. The imaging target was an in-house developed anthropomorphic breathing thorax phantom with deformable lungs and 3D-printed imaging targets. The phantom was programmed to reproduce 3 patient-measured breathing traces. Following image acquisition, projections were retrospectively binned into ten respiratory phases and reconstructed using filtered back projection, model-based, and iterative motion compensated algorithms. A conventional circular acquisition on the system of the free-breathing phantom was used as comparator. Edge Response Width (ERW) of the imaging target boundaries and Contrast-to-Noise Ratio (CNR) were used for image quality quantification. All acquisitions across all traces considered displayed visual evidence of motion blurring, and this was reflected in the quantitative measurements. Additionally, all the 4D respiratory acquisitions displayed a lower contrast compared to the conventional acquisitions for all three traces considered. Overall, the current implementation of 4D respiratory CBCT explored in this study with various gantry velocities combined with motion compensated algorithms improved image sharpness for the slower gantry rotations considered (2°/s and 10°/s) compared to conventional acquisitions over a variety of patient traces.
Potentials of pretreatment [18F]FDG PET/CT for non-invasive prediction of the tumor unfavorable pathological indices and microenvironment in NSCLC
Authors: Fadl Nada Mohamed , Moustafa Hosna , Elantably Ismail , Abdelazim Hazem , Sobeih Mohamed Emam , Allam Rasha Mahmoud , Elahmadawy Mai Amr
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To investigate pretreatment [18F]FDG PET/CT in predicting tumor pathological features and microenvironment.

Methodology

Fifty-one patients with histo-pathologically proven non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) underwent pretreatment [18F]FDG PET/CT, and their clinicopathological data were collected. PET-derived biomarkers (SUVmax, mean, MTV, and TLG), consolidation-to-tumor ratio (CTR), and histopathological data (tumor grade, differentiation, tumor histological subtype, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), degree of desmoplasia, degree of necrosis, tumor budding, and nuclear grade), as well as a proposed risk stratification pathological scoring system, were all assessed.

Results

A CTR cut-off point of 0.34 was able to discriminate between low- and high-grade tumors with a sensitivity and specificity of 75.9% and 68.2%, respectively (p = 0.012). Low CTR was significantly associated with the tumor pathological subtype “adenocarcinoma,” low nuclear grade, negative tumor necrosis, and low pathological scores, respectively (p < 0.05). No significant associations were observed for CTR with tumor budding score, desmoplasia score, or TILs% (p-values > 0.05). High SUVmax (> 12.64) and high SUVmean (> 4.28) values were significantly associated with SCC tumors (p = 0.023 and 0.04, respectively). SUVmean was significantly associated with cytological differentiation (p = 0.023). A statistical trend was noted for SUVmax concerning nuclear grade and desmoplasia scores (p = 0.068 and 0.061, respectively). No statistically significant associations were revealed for MTV and TLG concerning different pathological features (p-values > 0.05). Primary lung tumors positive for desmoplasia revealed higher metabolic activity regarding SUVmax, with a statistical trend observed (p = 0.072). No statistically significant associations were observed concerning other metabolic parameters (p-values > 0.05).

Conclusion

PET/CT-derived biomarkers appear promising for predicting tumor unfavorable pathological features and microenvironment in NSCLC.
Experiences of Loneliness and Connection for Autistic Young People: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lisboa White Luciana , Tecwyn Emma C. , Petty Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Evidence suggest that autistic young people are vulnerable to feeling lonely, with detrimental consequences for their wellbeing. This systematic review sought descriptions of loneliness and connection by autistic young people. The findings summarise how loneliness has been conceptualised, measured and reported for autistic young people and offer a list of strategies that are personally meaningful and promote connection and wellbeing. Three conclusions are reached: first, there is a paucity of research on how this group experience loneliness; second, descriptions of feeling connected are mostly limited to neuronormative descriptions of friendship, which can judge autistic behaviours as inadequate; third, loneliness must be reconceptualised, and appropriate assessment tools developed. These developments should be supported by research with participation of the autistic community.
Salinity modulates morpho-physiology, biochemical and antioxidant defence system in Tetragonia decumbens Mill.: a neglected wild leafy vegetable in South Africa
Authors: Sogoni Avela , Jimoh Muhali Olaide , Barker Adelé Mariska , Keyster Marshall , Kambizi Learnmore , Laubscher Charles Petrus
Published: October 2024

Tetragonia decumbens is an edible halophyte that grows naturally in saline environment; however, its tolerance mechanisms are poorly understood for bio-saline agriculture. So, this research was designed to look into how salinity affects vegetative growth, leaf succulence, chlorophyll content, cation accumulation, oxidative stress indicators, and antioxidative defence mechanisms involved in the salt tolerance of T. decumbens. Saline conditions were prepared by dissolving sodium chlorine (NaCl) in the nutritive solution. The control was maintained and only watered with nutrient solution while the tested treatments contained graded NaCl doses (250, 200, 150, 100, and 50 mM). Results revealed a substantial enhancement in shoot length, number of branches, relative water content, as well as total fresh weight in plants irrigated with 50 and 100 mM NaCl in comparison to the control, while higher saline concentrations (150–250 mM NaCl) reduced plant growth and chlorophyll content. Similarly, these high salt concentrations induced more severe oxidative stress indicated by high amounts of superoxide, cell death viability and malondialdehyde, with the most pronounced effect at the highest NaCl concentration (250 mM). Nevertheless, T. decumbens modulated various defence mechanisms with increasing salinity stress, these include the upregulation of superoxide dismutase, catalase, polyphenols, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins and the build-up of sodium ions in the leaves. These results show that T. decumbens can withstand salinity by modifying its morpho-physiological traits, antioxidant defence systems, and managing ion toxicity and oxidative stress efficiently, since all plants withstand salinity without showing signs of toxicity.
A Retrospective Consecutive Controlled Case Series Analysis of the Assessment and Treatment of Elopement in Children with Autism in an Inpatient Setting
Authors: Nevill Rose E. , Crawford Michelle F. , Zarcone Jennifer R. , Maquera Elizabeth , Rooker Griffin W. , Schmidt Jonathan D.
Published: October 2024

This study included a retrospective consecutive controlled case series analysis of 17 function-based elopement treatments developed for 14 children with autism in an inpatient setting. Results from functional analyses indicated elopement was most frequently maintained by access to tangible items, followed by automatic reinforcement. All treatments used a combination of multiple consequence-based or antecedent- and consequence-based strategies. Individual treatment components and strategies for testing treatment generality are reviewed to provide examples of how such treatments may be implemented to reduce elopement attempts. Effective treatments, defined as reducing elopement by at least 80%, were developed for 13 children. These findings may help guide clinicians as they plan for the safe assessment and treatment of this difficult and dangerous behavior.
Water Demand Elasticity in Agriculture: The Case of the Central Emilia Irrigation Water District
Authors: Pronti A. , Berbel J.
Published: October 2024

We estimated the water demand elasticity through an econometric approach applied to a large dataset of water demand observations for an irrigation water district in the Emilia-Romagna region (Italy). Elasticity has been estimated also by considering subsamples of crops and irrigation technologies. The results show water demand inelastic to price, with heterogeneity among crops and irrigation systems. More precisely, we find higher levels of water demand responsiveness for efficient irrigation systems (drip and sprinkler) than for traditional irrigation technologies such as furrow systems. In the paper we provide various potential interpretations to this heterogeneity among crops and irrigation systems.
A Standardized Single Dose of the Nootropic CILTEP® Has No Effect on Cognitive Performance in Healthy Elderly Participants
Authors: Possemis Nina , Caldenhove Stéphanie , Prickaerts Jos , Blokland Arjan
Published: October 2024

Nootropics, often referred to as “smart drugs,” are substances purported to enhance cognitive functions, particularly executive functions and memory, in healthy individuals. While primarily used by younger adults, there is growing interest in the potential of nootropics to benefit elderly, particularly in the prevention and management of cognitive decline associated with aging. This study aimed to investigate the acute cognitive enhancing effects of a single standardized dose of the dietary nootropic stack CILTEP® (Neurofuel™) in healthy elderly participants. We evaluated the cognitive benefits of a single dose of CILTEP® in 33 healthy elderly participants using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-way cross-over design. To assess various cognitive domains, a comprehensive test battery was employed which included tasks measuring memory performance, attention, and sensorimotor speed. The tests administered were the Verbal Learning Test, the Spatial Pattern Separation Task, the Digit Symbol Substitution Task, the Trail Making Test, the n-Back test, the Simple and Choice Reaction Time Task, and the Stroop Color-Word Task. No relevant effects attributable to acute CILTEP® treatment were observed on any cognitive measures, event-related-potentials (ERPs), or vital functions such as blood pressure and heart rate. The lack of significant cognitive enhancement in healthy elderly participants may suggest that a single acute dosing of CILTEP® is insufficient to exert measurable effects. Further studies are required to explore long-term effects, optimal dosing, and overall efficacy of the nootropic.
A systematic review of current AI techniques used in the context of the SDGs
Authors: Greif Lucas , Röckel Fabian , Kimmig Andreas , Ovtcharova Jivka
Published: October 2024

This study aims to explore the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the resolution of sustainability challenges, with a specific focus on environmental studies. Given the rapidly evolving nature of this field, there is an urgent need for more frequent and dynamic reviews to keep pace with the innovative applications of AI. Through a systematic analysis of 191 research articles, we classified AI techniques applied in the field of sustainability. Our review found that 65% of the studies applied supervised learning methods, 18% employed unsupervised learning, and 17% utilized reinforcement learning approaches. The review highlights that artificial neural networks (ANN), are the most commonly applied AI techniques in sustainability contexts, accounting for 23% of the reviewed methods. This comprehensive overview of AI techniques identifies key trends and proposes new research avenues to address the complex issue of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Graphic abstract
Nonlocal Nernst-Planck-Poisson System for Modeling Electrochemical Corrosion in Biodegradable Magnesium Implants
Authors: Hermann Alexander , Shojaei Arman , Höche Daniel , Jafarzadeh Siavash , Bobaru Florin , Cyron Christian J.
Published: October 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive derivation and application of the nonlocal Nernst-Planck-Poisson (NNPP) system for accurate modeling of electrochemical corrosion with a focus on the biodegradation of magnesium-based implant materials under physiological conditions. The NNPP system extends and generalizes the peridynamic bi-material corrosion model by considering the transport of multiple ionic species due to electromigration. As in the peridynamic corrosion model, the NNPP system naturally accounts for moving boundaries due to the electrochemical dissolution of solid metallic materials in a liquid electrolyte as part of the dissolution process. In addition, we use the concept of a diffusive corrosion layer, which serves as an interface for constitutive corrosion modeling and provides an accurate representation of the kinetics with respect to the corrosion system under consideration. Through the NNPP model, we propose a corrosion modeling approach that incorporates diffusion, electromigration and reaction conditions in a single nonlocal framework. The validity of the NNPP-based corrosion model is illustrated by numerical simulations, including a one-dimensional example of pencil electrode corrosion and a three-dimensional simulation of a Mg-10Gd alloy bone implant screw decomposing in simulated body fluid. The numerical simulations correctly reproduce the corrosion patterns in agreement with macroscopic experimental corrosion data. Using numerical models of corrosion based on the NNPP system, a nonlocal approach to corrosion analysis is proposed, which reduces the gap between experimental observations and computational predictions, particularly in the development of biodegradable implant materials.
An Innovative Approach to Closing the Loop in a Circular Plastic Economy by Upcycling Single-Use Post-consumer Thin Film Plastic Packaging Waste into Durable Plastic Products
Authors: Kinn Moshe C.
Published: October 2024

The waste system requires a circular economy business solution to upcycle millions of tonnes of contaminated post-consumer single-use multi-material, multilayer, plastic packaging films/foils. This waste is rarely collected for recycling, firstly because the market for such waste is new and very small, and secondly due to technical issues and cross-contamination at waste recycling facilities. Conventionally, two linear disposal routs exist, energy recovery through incineration or landfill, both having an economic cost. Being very lightweight, plastics are blown around and end up contaminating terrestrial and marine environments. This paper evaluates intrusion extrusion moulding technology with agglomeration to make products. With a 50-year first lifespan and nine more life cycles, they can be used multiple times as a substitute for wood and concrete. Public bodies can catalyse the intrusion extrusion moulding manufacturing industry by including such products during their procurement processes. The technology works and the business can be profitable.
Using drama to enrich a genre-based pedagogy for teaching academic writing across content areas
Authors: Cleeve Gerkens Rafaela
Published: October 2024

Drama has the potential to enrich and enliven established approaches to literacy learning, engaging students and expanding their possibilities for meaning-making. Drama-rich pedagogy is well-established as an effective tool in supporting language and literacy development. However, research to date has not explored the possibilities of using drama to enrich established genre-based approaches to teaching writing. This article reports on findings from an interventionist case study in an Australian primary school examining how a Year Three/Four teacher used drama-rich pedagogy to support students’ academic writing of a scientific explanation text. The findings indicate three key pedagogical benefits of employing drama to build conceptual understandings of the field of study and relevant academic language as part of a genre-based pedagogy for teaching writing. Firstly, drama experiences can make visible students’ prior knowledge of a topic, allowing teachers to identify, interrogate and transform students’ misconceptions through reflective dialogue on embodied experience. These embodied and interactive experiences also support the development of shared understandings of key concepts and language. Finally, drama experiences provide embodied and interactive contexts in which students can move from common sense to more abstract/technical understandings of the topic of study which they can apply in writing their own texts. In sharing these findings, this article aims to illustrate how drama can be used to develop the conceptual and linguistic understandings required by genre pedagogy in engaging, embodied ways that draw productively on the diverse resources that students bring to their learning.
PRevention Intervention and Support in Mental health for people with aphasia (Aphasia PRISM): protocol and mixed methods analysis plan for two feasibility studies
Authors: Baker C. , Rose M. L. , Wong D. , Ryan B. , Thomas S. , Cadilhac D. , Kneebone I.
Published: October 2024

Background

People with aphasia commonly experience depression and anxiety. The individual therapy program, Aphasia PRevention Intervention and Support in Mental health (Aphasia PRISM) offers low intensity psychotherapeutic interventions using communication supports. Trained stroke clinicians from disciplines other than psychology (e.g., allied health professional, nurse, doctor) can deliver such interventions. The aim of the planned studies is to test the acceptability, feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of Aphasia PRISM for preventing depression and anxiety and supporting wellbeing in people with aphasia after stroke.

Method

This protocol describes two feasibility studies of the Aphasia PRISM using parallel, convergent, mixed methods designs. Participants will be adults with aphasia after stroke from a metropolitan healthcare site (Study A, pre-post case series, approximate n = 6) and two regional/rural sites (Study B, randomised controlled trial, n = 30; random allocation to either: treatment arm Aphasia PRISM + usual care; or attention control of secondary stroke prevention information + usual care) in Victoria, Australia. Eligible participants will be offered 7 weekly intervention sessions (via telehealth or in person). Other participant groups include stroke clinicians / site managers and family members. Feasibility will be assessed with treatment acceptability ratings (primary outcome) and secondary outcomes such as recruitment rate and participant clinical response. Participant clinical responses to intervention will be collected pre-intervention (baseline), concurrently (4 week acceptability measure), immediately post (8 weeks), follow-up (3 months) and follow-up at 6 months (Study B only). Descriptive statistics will be used to analyse quantitative data based on the type and distribution of data. Reflexive thematic analysis, an inductive approach will be used to analyse qualitative data.

Discussion

Aphasia PRISM offers the potential for trained stroke clinicians to deliver low intensity psychotherapeutic interventions with communication supports to people with aphasia. Studies A and B were registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials registry under one registration (ACTRN12620000209998) 20th February 2020.
Managing Growth in Miniature
Authors: Halsmayer Verena
Published: October 2024

Managing Growth in Miniature explores the history of the way economists think about growth. It focuses on the period between the 1930s and 1960s, tracing the development of the famed 'Solow growth model,' one of the central mathematical models in postwar economics. It argues that models are not simply 'efficient tools' providing answers to the problems of economic theory and governance. The Solow model's various uses and interpretations related not only to the ways it made things (in)visible, excluded questions, and suggested actions. Its 'success' and effects ultimately also pertained to its fundamental ambiguities. Attending to the concrete sides of economic abstractions, this book provides a richly layered and accessible account of the forms of knowledge that shaped the predominant notion of 'economic growth' and ideas of how to govern it.
Time-Variant and Quasi-separable Systems
Authors: Dewilde Patrick , Diepold Klaus , Van der Veen Alle-Jan
Published: October 2024

Matrix theory is the lingua franca of everyone who deals with dynamically evolving systems, and familiarity with efficient matrix computations is an essential part of the modern curriculum in dynamical systems and associated computation. This is a master's-level textbook on dynamical systems and computational matrix algebra. It is based on the remarkable identity of these two disciplines in the context of linear, time-variant, discrete-time systems and their algebraic equivalent, quasi-separable systems. The authors' approach provides a single, transparent framework that yields simple derivations of basic notions, as well as new and fundamental results such as constrained model reduction, matrix interpolation theory and scattering theory. This book outlines all the fundamental concepts that allow readers to develop the resulting recursive computational schemes needed to solve practical problems. An ideal treatment for graduate students and academics in electrical and computer engineering, computer science and applied mathematics.
Swimming efficiency in viscosity gradients
Authors: Gong Jiahao , Shaik Vaseem A. , Elfring Gwynn J.
Published: October 2024

In this note, we study the effect of viscosity gradients on the energy dissipated by the motion of microswimmers and the associated efficiency of that motion. Using spheroidal squirmer model swimmers in weak linearly varying viscosity fields, we find that efficiency depends on whether they generate propulsion from the back (pushers) or the front (pullers). Pushers are faster and more efficient when moving down gradients, but slower and less efficient moving up viscosity gradients, and the opposite is true for pullers. However, both pushers and pullers display negative viscotaxis, therefore pushers dynamically tend to the most efficient orientation, while pullers tend to the least. We also evaluate the effect of shape on power expenditure and efficiency when swimming in viscosity gradients, and find that in general, the change in both due to gradients decreases monotonically with increasing slenderness. This work shows how shape and gait play an important role in determining dynamics and efficiency in inhomogeneous environments, and demonstrating that both efficiency minimizing and maximizing stable dynamical states are possible.
Black–Brown Coalitions in Local City Council Elections
Authors: Rocha Rene R.
Published: October 2024

Previous work suggests that African American and Latino voters lack political cohesiveness. Recently, these findings have been cited by opponents of “minority aggregation,” which is the idea that African Americans and Latinos can be thought of as constituting a single “class of citizens” when filing claims under the Voting Rights Act. I replicate one influential study, Rocha (2007), with updated data and greater attentiveness to moderating conditions that are meaningful in voting rights law. My findings suggest African Americans and Latinos are more cohesive than previously thought, especially in majority–minority jurisdictions. Furthermore, cohesion cannot be explained solely by shared partisanship.
A spolia ostotheke from Metropolis and Early Christian burial traditions
Authors: Arslan Burak , Meriç Zeynep A. , Aybek Serdar
Published: October 2024

This article examines the different uses made of a marble ostotheke (ossuary) that was discovered in 2021 during archaeological excavations in and around the church in the Araplıtepe district, near the ancient city of Metropolis. Information about the chest’s original use as a funerary object and its production date and ownership is followed by a discussion of its recycled (spolia) use as a sedimentation tank on a water channel, and by an explanation of its third and final function. A bronze lamp discovered inside the ostotheke provides important clues about the object’s final use and its relationship with its surroundings. Christian burials in and around the church dating to as early as the fifth to sixth centuries AD also provide insights into these processes. This ostotheke, which served a variety of functions from the second to the seventh centuries AD, shows that objects made in Roman times might continue to be used in different ways for a long time thereafter. This article therefore examines the ostotheke as a reflection and extension of the changing needs of people and communities over time, rather than simply as a carved marble object.
The impact of COVID-19 status and vaccine type following the first dose on acute heart disease: A nationwide retrospective cohort study in South Korea
Authors: Yun Choa , Lee Yaeji , Heo Seok-Jae , Kim Namhui , Jung Inkyung
Published: October 2024

Recent studies have suggested an increased incidence of myocarditis and pericarditis following mRNA vaccination or COVID-19. However, the potential interaction effect between vaccine type and COVID-19 on heart disease risk remains uncertain. Our study aimed to examine the impact of COVID-19 status and vaccine type following the first dose on acute heart disease in the Korean population, using data from the National Health Insurance Service COVID-19 database (October 2018–March 2022). We sought to provide insights for public health policies and clinical decisions pertaining to COVID-19 vaccination strategies. We analysed heart disease risk, including acute cardiac injury, acute myocarditis, acute pericarditis, cardiac arrest, and cardiac arrhythmia, in relation to vaccine type and COVID-19 within 21 days after the first vaccination date, employing Cox proportional hazards models with time-varying covariates. This study included 3,350,855 participants. The results revealed higher heart disease risk in individuals receiving mRNA vaccines than other types (adjusted HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.35–1.62). Individuals infected by SARS-CoV-2 also exhibited significantly higher heart disease risk than those uninfected (adjusted HR, 3.56; 95% CI, 1.15–11.04). We found no significant interaction effect between vaccine type and COVID-19 status on the risk of acute heart disease. Notably, however, younger individuals who received mRNA vaccines had a higher heart disease risk compared to older individuals. These results may suggest the need to consider alternative vaccine options for the younger population. Further research is needed to understand underlying mechanisms and guide vaccination strategies effectively.
East Asians’ Lower Satisfaction With Homelife Is Plausibly Related to Lower Attitude Similarity Within Couples
Authors: Seo Minjae , Cohen Dov , Briley D. A. , Yakin Syamil
Published: October 2024

Abstract: World Values Survey respondents from East Asia (China and Japan) viewed themselves as less similar to their spouses on a variety of attitude domains, compared to respondents from Western and other non-Western cultures. Mediational analyses showed significant indirect effects from the East Asian variable through attitude dissimilarity to lower homelife satisfaction. In all regions, similarity with one’s spouse predicted homelife satisfaction. Unexpectedly, it was a relatively weaker predictor for Western European couples (vs. elsewhere). One puzzle is whether shared attitudes (a) are so important for Westerners that they self-select into relationships where remaining discrepancies are trivial or (b) are so unimportant for Westerners, who needlessly sort themselves on this basis.
Upscaling Land Surface Fluxes Through Hyper Resolution Remote Sensing in Space, Time, and the Spectrum
Authors: Ryu Youngryel
Published: October 2024

Numerous efforts to measure land surface fluxes, from leaf to canopy scales, have significantly advanced the field of biogeoscience. However, upscaling these estimates to larger spatial and temporal scales remains a challenge. Recent advancements in remote sensing provide new opportunities to bridge these gaps in upscaling efforts. In this review, I propose that emerging satellite data can support the robust upscaling of land surface fluxes in terms of space through constellations of low Earth orbit satellites, in time through geostationary satellites, and in spectrum via optical, thermal, and microwave satellites. Lastly, I recommend the development of a long‐term network integrating tower‐based hyperspectral, thermal, and microwave instruments to rigorously evaluate the upscaling process of land surface fluxes.
Anthropogenic Exacerbation in Dry‐Hot Probability and Consequential Record‐Shattering Droughts in the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River
Authors: Feng Shuyun , Gu Xihui , Guan Yansong , Wang Quan J. , Zheng Yanhui , Wang Lunche , Zhang Xiang , Kong Dongdong
Published: October 2024

In the year 2019, the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River (MLRYR) experienced an unprecedented summer‐autumn drought (SAD) driven by dry‐hot conditions [high near‐surface air temperatures (T) and low precipitation (P)], causing substantial agricultural and economic losses. However, the inﬂuence of anthropogenic climate change (ACC) on these dry‐hot conditions and their impacts on SAD occurrences remains uncertain. Here, both observations and simulations show that an ACC‐driven T increase led to the greater likelihood of dry‐hot conditions from August to November 1901–2020 in MLRYR. Using the self‐calibrating Palmer drought index (scPDSI) to assess SAD severity, we find an increasing likelihood of SAD occurrence (from 33.3% in 1901–2000 to 85.7% in 2001–2020) in MLRYR associated with more frequent dry‐hot conditions. Under a business‐as‐usual scenario, future dry‐hot association is projected to be stronger, with exceptional dry‐hot conditions to increase by +10% per century. ACC‐induced increase in dry‐hot conditions would elevate the likelihood of SAD events like the 2019 event from 1.59% (1961–2020) to 17.82% (2041–2100). Therefore, effective measures are needed in MLRYR to adapt to increasing dry‐hot conditions and associated SAD occurrences under anthropogenic warming.
An Endogenic Origin for Titan's Rampart Craters: Assessment of Explosion Mechanisms
Authors: Brouwer G. E. , Schurmeier L. R. , Fagents S. A.
Published: October 2024

Rampart craters are a class of lakes or depressions in Titan's north polar region that have morphological attributes suggestive of an explosive origin. Two previous studies have proposed that rampart craters form via nitrogen or methane vapor explosions analogous to terrestrial maar explosions. We propose a new terrestrial analog for rampart craters: gas emission craters (GECs) found in permafrost zones. We evaluate the explosive origin of Titan's rampart craters by modeling the dispersal of material from an explosive vent. The dimensions of nine rampart craters with radar‐bright ramparts were used to model the explosion process. The model yields a range of explosion conditions (e.g., gas mass and reservoir depth) producing ejecta dispersal patterns matching the observed features. We find that gas masses of 1011–1014 kg are required to produce a rampart crater. We examine two explosion scenarios: (a) rapid, maar‐like vaporization and explosion of liquid nitrogen or methane, and (b) more gradual gas accumulation and explosion akin to a GEC driven by methane released from destabilizing clathrates. If Titan's crust is composed of pure water ice, the calculated gas pressures are consistent with a rapid, maar‐like explosion mechanism. If the subsurface is predominantly composed of organic materials or clathrate, either scenario may be plausible. Further research on the composition and tensile strength of Titan's subsurface are required to discriminate between hypotheses. Nevertheless, we conclude that explosive dispersal of ejecta from a vent can account for the morphologies of Titan's rampart craters and may contribute to atmospheric methane replenishment.
The Characteristics of Different Apparent Optical Property Parameters in Non‐Destructively Estimating Absorptive Substances Within Sea Ice: A Case Study in Liaodong Bay
Authors: Zhang Yu , Xu Zhantang , Yang Yuezhong , Liu Huizeng , Zhou Wen , Liu Cong , Yang Zeming , Li Cai
Published: October 2024

Absorptive substances (AS) embedded in sea ice can alter irradiance transmission, exerting a significant influence on oceanic biogeochemical processes. Their quantification is thus essential, and a regression model based on the normalized difference index of transmittance (T(λ)) has been widely used for retrieving ice algal biomass. However, the potentials of albedo (α(λ)) and the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd(λ)) in AS estimation have not been explored. To fill this gap, sea ice optical properties observed in Liaodong Bay in 2009, 2010, 2013, and 2022 were used to investigate the characteristics of α(λ), T(λ), and Kd(λ) in non‐destructively estimating As through sensitivity analyses based on the Hydrolight radiative transfer model. The effects derived from AS vertical distribution, scattering coefficient and ice thickness were studied specifically. Ultimately, a significant relationship between α(λ) and the total absorption coefficient of AS was derived (R2 = 0.79) for Liaodong Bay sea ice. Sensitivity analyses revealed that it could only retrieve AS in the upper 15–20 cm, which was influenced by variations in ice thickness and scattering coefficient. In contrast, T(λ) could retrieve AS throughout the ice column and is less affected by scattering variation; but it is significantly affected by the vertical distribution of AS in the upper layer. Kd(λ) has the best potential in AS estimation, but for sea ice thinner than 30 cm, the effect of variation in ice thickness could not be neglected, similar to T(λ). Knowledge of this is helpful for the future development of AS estimation.
The Cooling Effect of Oasis Reservoir‐Riparian Forest Systems in Arid Regions
Authors: Jiao Yinying , Zhu Guofeng , Lu Siyu , Ye Linlin , Qiu Dongdong , Meng Gaojia , Wang Qinqin , Li Rui , Chen Longhu , Wang Yuhao , Si Dehong , Li Wentong
Published: October 2024

In arid regions with limited water resources, numerous reservoirs have been built to support economic and social development. However, how the construction of reservoirs interacts with the surrounding ecosystem to affect temperature remains unclear. Spanning 2018 to 2022 in the Shiyang River Basin, we collected surface water and precipitation, as well as stem and soil samples. Using isotopic methods, we quantified how evaporation in the oasis reservoir‐riparian forest system affects the local climate. Our findings show that the latent heat released by evapotranspiration from the reservoir and riparian forest system reduces the daily maximum temperature and daily temperature range by 7°C and 6°C respectively, compared to downstream areas with sparse vegetation around artificial lakes. Additionally, it enhances local moisture recycling, increasing precipitation. This study reveals regional cooling effect due to interactions between water bodies, the atmosphere, and vegetation. We propose that establishing reservoir‐riparian forest systems can positively impact local climate regulation and serve as an effective strategy for adapting to global climate warming.
Non-surgical spinal cord infarction: case series & long-term follow-up of functional outcome
Authors: McBride Fionán , Anketell Jane , McDonnell Gavin V. , Maguire Suzanne , Doherty Karen M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Spinal cord infarction is a rare but often devastating disorder. The pathogenesis of most non-surgical cases involves atherothrombosis and treatment with anticoagulation and antiplatelet agents may be indicated. Functional recovery in most cases is poor. We describe five cases of spinal cord infarction and provide details on their functional outcomes after long-term (>10 years) follow-up.

Case presentation

A 28-year-old female presented at 16 weeks gestation with chest and back pain and paraesthesia in her fingers. Magnetic resonance imaging on admission revealed a spinal cord lesion extending from C5-T8. She was treated with anticoagulation and rehabilitation. Six years following presentation she was able to return to work. A 42-year-old male experiencing central chest pain and leg weakness was initially diagnosed as having acute coronary syndrome. Following discharge, he was re-admitted with urinary retention and leg weakness. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a spinal cord lesion extending from T4 to T7. He was treated with anticoagulation, and eight months following presentation he regained full muscle strength but required intermittent self-catherisation. Three further cases are described.

Discussion

The aetiology of non-surgical spinal cord infarction is not always evident, but is commonly associated with atherothrombosis. There are often delays in making a diagnosis, but early recognition and prompt treatment of spinal cord infarction is essential. Long-term functional outcomes are often poor and typically reflect the severity of initial presentation. This case series is unique as it has one of the longest follow-up periods described in the literature.
Effects of separate and combined estradiol and progesterone administration on fear extinction in healthy pre-menopausal women
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Michael , Deuter Christian Eric , Deus Hanna , Kallidou Anna , Merz Christian J. , Hellmann-Regen Julian , Otte Christian , Wingenfeld Katja
Published: October 2024

Altered fear conditioning and extinction learning are discussed as key etiological features in anxiety disorders. Women have an increased risk for anxiety disorders and fear conditioning has been shown to be influenced by the menstrual cycle phase and circulating gonadal hormones. The objective of our study was to investigate the effects of separate and combined estradiol and progesterone administration on fear extinction in healthy women. We conducted a placebo-controlled, randomized study in healthy women, who completed a fear conditioning paradigm on three consecutive days: fear acquisition training on day 1, fear extinction training on day 2, and return of fear test on day 3. Skin conductance responses (SCRs) served as main outcome variable. Two hours before testing on day 2, participants received pills containing either placebo, estradiol (2 mg), progesterone (400 mg) or the combination of both. We examined 116 women (mean age 25.7 ± 6.0 years), who showed significantly stronger conditioned SCRs to the CS+ than CS- during fear acquisition training indicating successful fear learning. At the beginning of the fear extinction training, estradiol administration reduced the differentiation between the conditioned stimuli. In the return of fear test, the estradiol groups showed heightened SCR responses to the previously extinguished stimulus, i.e., impaired extinction recall. Administration of progesterone did not have any significant influence on SCRs. There were also no effects on fear potentiated startle response. In our interpretation, exogenous estradiol administration affected the extinction of the conditioned fear response which led subsequently to a stronger return of fear. From a clinical perspective our findings suggest that estradiol levels may have an influence on the success of exposure therapy and could be taken into consideration when planning exposure sessions.
Sequence and structural determinants of RNAPII CTD phase-separation and phosphorylation by CDK7
Authors: Linhartova Katerina , Falginella Francesco Luca , Matl Martin , Sebesta Marek , Vácha Robert , Stefl Richard
Published: October 2024

The intrinsically disordered carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) of the largest subunit of RNA Polymerase II (RNAPII) consists of multiple tandem repeats of the consensus heptapeptide Y1-S2-P3-T4-S5-P6-S7. The CTD promotes liquid-liquid phase-separation (LLPS) of RNAPII in vivo. However, understanding the role of the conserved heptad residues in LLPS is hampered by the lack of direct biochemical characterization of the CTD. Here, we generated a systematic array of CTD variants to unravel the sequence-encoded molecular grammar underlying the LLPS of the human CTD. Using in vitro experiments and molecular dynamics simulations, we report that the aromaticity of tyrosine and cis-trans isomerization of prolines govern CTD phase-separation. The cis conformation of prolines and β-turns in the SPXX motif contribute to a more compact CTD ensemble, enhancing interactions among CTD residues. We further demonstrate that prolines and tyrosine in the CTD consensus sequence are required for phosphorylation by Cyclin-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7). Under phase-separation conditions, CDK7 associates with the surface of the CTD droplets, drastically accelerating phosphorylation and promoting the release of hyperphosphorylated CTD from the droplets. Our results highlight the importance of conformationally restricted local structures within spacer regions, separating uniformly spaced tyrosine stickers of the CTD heptads, which are required for CTD phase-separation.
Short-term effects on physical activity level with web-based self-management support in people with COPD: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Stenlund Tobias , Karlsson Åsa , Liv Per , Nyberg André , Wadell Karin
Published: October 2024

We aimed to evaluate short-term effects of a web-based self-management support on objectively measured physical activity (PA) compared to usual care in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We conducted a pragmatic randomised controlled trial including people with stable COPD within primary healthcare. Participants were randomised to intervention group, IG (access to the COPD Web, an interactive website to support self-management with focus on PA), or to control group, CG (usual care). Primary outcome at 3 months was change in accelerometry-measured daily steps analysed with ANCOVA, and secondary outcomes were self-reported PA, disease-related symptoms, and quality of life. Missing data in intention-to-treat (ITT) analyses were multiply imputed. One hundred and forty-six participants (n = 73/group), mean (SD) age 69.5 (6.7) years, FEV1pred 60.7 (19.1)% were included. The ITT analysis showed no significant difference in steps between the groups: 1295 steps (95% CI: [−365, 2955], p = 0.12), while the complete case analysis (n = 98) revealed a significant difference of 1492 steps (95% CI: [374, 2609], p = 0.01) in favour of IG. A significant increase in self-reported PA was seen in IG in both the ITT and complete case analysis. In summary, access to the COPD Web was insufficient to increase short-term PA level compared to usual care. However, among participants with complete step data, a clinically relevant effect on daily steps exceeding the minimal important difference was observed, partly explained by higher baseline PA than among dropouts. This indicates that access to the COPD Web may increase PA levels for some people with COPD.
Interferon as an immunoadjuvant to enhance antibodies following influenza B infection and vaccination in ferrets
Authors: Rowe Thomas , Fletcher Ashley , Svoboda Pavel , Pohl Jan , Hatta Yasuko , Jasso Gabriela , Wentworth David E. , Ross Ted M.
Published: October 2024

Despite annual vaccination, influenza B viruses (IBV) continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality in humans. We have found that IBV infection resulted in a weaker innate and adaptive immune response than influenza A viruses (IAV) in ferrets. To understand and overcome the weak immune responses to IBV in ferrets, we administered type-I or type-III interferon (IFN) to ferrets following infection or vaccination and evaluated their effects on the immune response. IFN signaling following viral infection plays an important role in the initial innate immune response and affects subsequent adaptive immune responses. In the respiratory tract, IFN lambda (IFNL) has regulatory effects on adaptive immunity indirectly through thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), which then acts on immune cells to stimulate the adaptive response. Following IBV infection or vaccination, IFN treatment (IFN-Tx) upregulated gene expression of early inflammatory responses in the upper respiratory tract and robust IFN, TSLP, and inflammatory responses in peripheral blood cells. These responses were sustained following challenge or vaccination in IFN-Tx animals. Serum IFNL and TSLP levels were enhanced in IFN-Tx animals following challenge/rechallenge over mock-Tx; however, this difference was not observed following vaccination. Antibody responses in serum of IFN-Tx animals following IBV infection or vaccination increased more quickly and to higher titers and were sustained longer than mock-Tx animals over 3 months. Following rechallenge of infected animals 3 months post treatment, antibody levels remained higher than mock-Tx. However, IFN-Tx did not have an effect on antibody responses following challenge of vaccinated animals. A strong direct correlation was found between TSLP levels and antibody responses following challenge-rechallenge and vaccination-challenge indicating it as a useful tool for predicting adaptive immune responses following IBV infection or vaccination. The effects of IFN on strengthening both innate and adaptive responses to IBV may aid in development of more effective treatments following infection and improved influenza vaccines.