bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Machine learning a fixed point action for SU(3) gauge theory with a gauge equivariant convolutional neural network
Authors: Holland Kieran , Ipp Andreas , Müller David I. , Wenger Urs 
Published: October 2024

Fixed point lattice actions are designed to have continuum classical properties unaffected by discretization effects and reduced lattice artifacts at the quantum level. They provide a possible way to extract continuum physics with coarser lattices, thereby allowing one to circumvent problems with critical slowing down and topological freezing toward the continuum limit. A crucial ingredient for practical applications is to find an accurate and compact parametrization of a fixed point action, since many of its properties are only implicitly defined. Here we use machine learning methods to revisit the question of how to parametrize fixed point actions. In particular, we obtain a fixed point action for four-dimensional SU(3) gauge theory using convolutional neural networks with exact gauge invariance. The large operator space allows us to find superior parametrizations compared to previous studies, a necessary first step for future Monte Carlo simulations and scaling studies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Lightening up primordial black holes in the galaxy with the QCD axion: Signals at the LOFAR telescope
Authors: Ferreira Ricardo Z. , Muyor Ángel Gil 
Published: October 2024

In this work, we study the luminosity that results from the conversion of QCD axion particles into photons in the magnetic field of the plasma accreting onto black holes (BHs). For the luminosities to be large two conditions need to be met: (i) there are large numbers of axions in the primordial BH surroundings as a result of the so-called superradiant instability; (ii) there exists a point inside the accreting region where the plasma and axion masses are similar and there is resonant axion-photon conversion. For BHs accreting from the interstellar medium in our Galaxy, the above conditions require the black hole to have subsolar masses and we are therefore led to consider a population of primordial black holes (PBHs). In the conservative window, where we stay within the nonrelativistic behavior of the plasma and neglect the possibility of nonlinear enhancement via magnetic stimulation, the typical frequencies of the emitted photons lie on the low-radio band. We thus study the prospects for detection using the LOFAR telescope, assuming the PBH abundance to be close to the maximal allowed by observations. We find that for PBH and QCD axion with masses in the range 10−5–10−4M⊙ and 4×10−8 and 4×10−7  eV, respectively, the flux density emitted by the closest PBH, assuming it accretes from the warm ionized medium, can be detected at the LOFAR telescope. Coincidentally, the PBH mass range coincides with the range that would explain the microlensing events found in OGLE. This might further motivate a dedicated search of these signals in the LOFAR data and other radio telescopes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Non‐senescent species are not immortal: Stress and decline in two planaria species
Authors: Deere Jacques A. , Holland Penelope , Aboobaker Aziz , Salguero‐Gómez Roberto 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Potential immortality is observed in several species (e.g. prickly pear cactus, hydra and flatworms) and is indicative of their negligible or even negative senescence rates. Unlike in senescent species, which experience reduced individual performance with age due to physiological degradation, species with negligible or negative senescence display mortality rates that remain constant or decline with age, respectively. These rates vary across taxa and are correlated with life history traits. Yet, the extent to which variable resource availability, a key driver of variation in life history traits, impacts species that show negligible or negative senescence is currently unknown.

Here, we examine whether and how variation in the quantity, quality and feeding interval of resources impact population structure, population performance and life history trait trade‐offs in two long‐lived planaria that do not senesce: Schmidtea mediterranea and Dugesia tahitiensis. In a full factorial design, different combinations of resource quantity (reduced intake, standard intake and high intake) and quality (high and low quality) were provided in two different feeding intervals (7‐day and 14‐day intervals) for 19 weeks.

We show that variability in resource availability, via decreases in quantity, quality and frequency of resources, does not diminish population viability in either species but does result in suboptimal conditions of stress in S. mediterranea.

The high population viability we report can be attributed to two different mechanisms: increased reproduction or increased investment into maintenance at the expense of reproduction. Moreover, which mechanism was responsible for said high population viability was context‐dependent and modulated by the specific life history strategy of the two planaria species.

We show that suboptimal conditions can cause stress responses that have significant impacts on non‐senescent species. The context‐dependent response we observe suggests that species that do not senesce but are subject to suboptimal conditions of stress may ultimately exhibit declines in performance and ultimately die. A clearer understanding of the impact of suboptimal conditions of resource availability on non‐senescent species is needed to determine the extent of stress experienced and ultimately whether a species can truly be immortal.
The interplay of drought, human–wildlife conflict and food security: Insights from rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Kairiza Terrence , Pallegedara Asankha , Chigusiwa Lloyd 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe frequency and severity of drought has been increasing in Southern Africa against the backdrop of an increase in the population of both humans and wildlife, most notably elephants. This has increased the incidents of human–wildlife conflict (HWC) due to competition for food and water, further complicating both conservation efforts and food security for farmer‐households juxtaposed to wildlife corridors. We seek insights into these issues by examining the role of drought in inducing HWC in rural Zimbabwe and investigate the effect of HWC on the food‐security status of rural households. We utilise data from the 2023 nationally representative survey of rural Zimbabwean households in this endeavour. To avoid the confounding problem associated with self‐selection into a HWC household and taking into account the count nature of our outcome variable, we employ the endogenous switching regression model with count data. The results provide three major insights. First, drought occurrence increases the likelihood of HWC among rural farmer‐households. Second, HWC increases rural household vulnerability to food insecurity. Finally, the HWC shock is inconsequential on farmer‐household food insecurity if the farmer‐household has already suffered the drought shock.
No Level Playing Field: Barriers to Disability Representation in Politics
Authors: Reher Stefanie , Evans Elizabeth 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWhile one in five people in the UK are disabled, their number among elected representatives remains disproportionately low. In ongoing efforts to make politics more inclusive and diverse, disabled people often remain sidelined. As a politically relevant identity, disability is associated with a shared set of experiences and policy interests which are often overlooked. This is at least in part owing to the under‐representation of disabled politicians, which is likely also contributing to a sense of political alienation. Thus, tackling the barriers that disabled people experience in the political recruitment process is not only a matter of democratic justice and equality, but also essential for ensuring that disabled people's needs and concerns are recognised and met. This article outlines the obstacles that disabled people experience in pursuing elected office—including inaccessibility, inadequate financial resources and ableist institutions and cultures—and offers recommendations to political parties, parliaments and governments on how to mitigate them.
Should we still teach or learn coding? A postgraduate student perspective on the use of large language models for coding in ecology and evolution
Authors: Campbell Heather , Bluck Thomas , Curry Ella , Harris Derrick , Pike Billie , Wright Bethany 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The extent to which coding skills are taught within ecology and evolution curricula remains largely unquantified. While coding, and especially R, proficiency is increasingly demanded in academic and professional contexts, many students encounter coding for the first time as postgraduates, presenting a steep learning curve alongside learning advanced statistics.

With the emergence of large language models (LLMs), questions arise regarding the relevance of teaching coding when many of these tasks can now be automated. Here, we explore students' experiences with using LLMs for coding, highlighting both benefits and limitations.

Through qualitative analysis of student perspectives, we identify several advantages of using LLMs for coding tasks, including enhanced search capabilities, provision of starting points and clear instructions, and troubleshooting support. However, limitations such as a lack of responsiveness to feedback and the prerequisite of extensive prior knowledge pose challenges to the effectiveness of student use of LLMs for coding at a beginner level. Concerns also arise regarding future access to LLMs, potentially exacerbating inequities in education.

Despite the potential of LLMs, we argue for the continued importance of teaching coding skills alongside their integration with LLM support. Tutor‐supported learning is essential for building foundational knowledge, facilitating comprehension of LLM outputs and fostering students' confidence in their abilities. Moreover, reliance solely on LLMs risks hindering deep learning and comprehension, thereby undermining the educational process. Our experiences underscore the significance of maintaining a balanced approach, leveraging LLMs as supplementary tools rather than substitutes for coding education in ecology and evolution courses.
Pressure to publish introduces large‐language model risks
Authors: Johnson Thomas F. , Simmons Benno I. , Millard Joseph , Strydom Tanya , Danet Alain , Sweeny Amy R. , Evans Luke C. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Large‐language models (LLMs) have the potential to accelerate research in ecology and evolution, cultivating new insights and innovation. However, whilst revelling in the plethora of opportunities, researchers need to consider that LLM use could also introduce risks.

An important piece of context underpinning this perspective is the pressure to publish, where research careers are defined, at least partly, by publication metrics like number of papers, impact factor, citations etc. Coupled with academic employment insecurity, especially during early career, researchers may reason that LLMs are a low‐risk and high‐reward tool for publication.

However, this pressure to publish can introduce risks if LLMs are used as a shortcut to game publication metrics instead of a tool to support true innovation. These risks may ultimately reduce research quality, stifle researcher development and incur reputational damage for researchers and the entire scientific record.

We conclude with a series of recommendations to mitigate the magnitude of these risks and encourage researchers to apply caution whilst maximising LLM potential.
Dysregulated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide metabolome in patients hospitalized with COVID‐19
Authors: Valderrábano Rodrigo J. , Wipper Benjamin , Pencina Karol Mateusz , Migaud Marie , Shang Yili Valentine , Latham Nancy K. , Montano Monty , Cunningham James M. , Wilson Lauren , Peng Liming , Memish‐Beleva Yusnie , Bhargava Avantika , Swain Pamela M. , Lehman Phoebe , Lavu Siva , Livingston David J. , Bhasin Shalender 
Published: October 2024

AbstractNicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) depletion has been postulated as a contributor to the severity of COVID‐19; however, no study has prospectively characterized NAD+ and its metabolites in relation to disease severity in patients with COVID‐19. We measured NAD+ and its metabolites in 56 hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 and in two control groups without COVID‐19: (1) 31 age‐ and sex‐matched adults with comorbidities, and (2) 30 adults without comorbidities. Blood NAD+ concentrations in COVID‐19 group were only slightly lower than in the control groups (p < 0.05); however, plasma 1‐methylnicotinamide concentrations were significantly higher in patients with COVID‐19 (439.7 ng/mL, 95% CI: 234.0, 645.4 ng/mL) than in age‐ and sex‐matched controls (44.5 ng/mL, 95% CI: 15.6, 73.4) and in healthy controls (18.1 ng/mL, 95% CI 15.4, 20.8; p < 0.001 for each comparison). Plasma nicotinamide concentrations were also higher in COVID‐19 group and in controls with comorbidities than in healthy control group. Plasma concentrations of 2‐methyl‐2‐pyridone‐5‐carboxamide (2‐PY), but not NAD+, were significantly associated with increased risk of death (HR = 3.65; 95% CI 1.09, 12.2; p = 0.036) and escalation in level of care (HR = 2.90, 95% CI 1.01, 8.38, p = 0.049). RNAseq and RTqPCR analyses of PBMC mRNA found upregulation of multiple genes involved in NAD+ synthesis as well as degradation, and dysregulation of NAD+‐dependent processes including immune response, DNA repair, metabolism, apoptosis/autophagy, redox reactions, and mitochondrial function. Blood NAD+ concentrations are modestly reduced in COVID‐19; however, NAD+ turnover is substantially increased with upregulation of genes involved in both NAD+ biosynthesis and degradation, supporting the rationale for NAD+ augmentation to attenuate disease severity.
Reactivation of stable neovascular age‐related macular degeneration following treat‐and‐extend regimen discontinuation
Authors: Artiaga Jose Carlo M. , Wong Shiao Wei , Menon Deepthy , Kumar Swetha , Dhoble Pankaja , Thottarath Sridevi , Nicholson Luke 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundTo describe the incidence and pattern of reactivation of neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (nAMD) following successful treatment with treat‐and‐extend intravitreal anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor therapy.MethodsConsecutive patients with treated nAMD who did not require further treatment over a 6‐month period and who attended their 3‐monthly optical coherence tomography monitoring clinic in Moorfields Eye Hospital from 1 November 2019 to 31 January 2020 were included. Patients with diagnoses of macular neovascularization other than AMD, and patients with incomplete data were excluded. Baseline demographics recorded were age, sex, race, laterality, cause of macular neovascularization, drug, number of injections, and duration of treatment. Date, setting, symptoms, and time to retreatment were collected among patients with disease reactivation.ResultsThe medical records of 286 patients were included. Most patients were female (64.3%), white (68.18%), and were receiving aflibercept monotherapy (55.2%). Mean number of injections at baseline was 17.79 ± 11.74 (range 3–62) with a mean treatment duration of 39.47 ± 30.68 months (range 2–139). Reactivation of AMD was identified in 32.2% of cases with 87% of recurrences identified via scheduled visit. The most common symptom was blurring of vision in 44.6%, while 39.1% were asymptomatic. Mean time from baseline to retreatment was 29.37 ± 22.40 months (range 5–104), with 20.7%, 73.9% and 88.04% of these patients requiring retreatment within 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively.ConclusionsDespite prior treatment with no reactivation in 6 months, 32.2% reactivate, 73.9% of which within 3 years. A significant proportion, 39.1%, reactivated without symptoms necessitating regular monitoring in the first 5 years.
Exploring the dyeing potential of annatto dye on linen substrate: An inquiry into the effects of different mordants
Authors: Marquardt André Luiz , de Oliveira Carlos Rafael Silva , Volkmann Ana Carolina , Francisco Isadora Bertini Martins , da Silva Júnior Afonso Henrique , de de Aguiar Catia Rosana Lange 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis study aimed to compare the dyeing capacity of annatto dye on linen textile substrates under the influence of different mordants, such as ferrous sulphate, alum, chitosan, and poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDACl). Annatto dye was extracted in an alcoholic medium, and the concentrations of the dye compounds bixin and norbixin were determined using ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometry. Dyeing experiments were conducted with 10% and 20% weight of material (s.p.m.) concentrations, both on mordant‐treated substrates and on substrates pre‐bleached only. The colour evaluation indicated better colour yields for substrates pretreated with alum and PDDACl, with colour strength (K/S) values of 41.14 and 38.74, respectively, for dyeing with 20% s.p.m. However, these substrates exhibited the highest colour deviation (∆E) values in washing and lightfastness tests. The substrate pretreated with ferrous sulphate and the substrate pre‐bleached only showed K/S values of 25.99 and 18.68, respectively, with the ferrous sulphate‐treated substrate exhibiting the lowest ∆E values in washing and lightfastness tests among all evaluated substrates. Chitosan‐cationised samples showed the lowest colour yield, with a K/S of 12.51. Regarding washing and lightfastness, the pre‐bleached only substrate and the chitosan‐pretreated substrate displayed intermediate ∆𝐸 values. The dyeing kinetics of pre‐bleached substrates exhibited pseudo‐first‐order behaviour, while for ferrous sulphate‐pretreated samples, pseudo‐second‐order behaviour was observed. Langmuir's adsorption model was suitable for pre‐bleached substrate dyeing and ferrous sulphate‐pretreated sample dyeing in adsorption isotherms. However, for mordanted samples, higher adsorption intensity was observed.
1110. Hibiscus glaber Matsum. ex Nakai
Authors: Vélez‐Esperilla Fernando , Takayama Koji , Takegami Minako , Yamanaka Masumi 
Published: October 2024

SummaryHibiscus glaber is a symbolically significant endemic species found exclusively on the Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands. It is one of the main tree species in the natural forests of the island. This species is illustrated here, and its natural history, ecology, pollination, and cultivation are described.
Targeting ICAM1 to Ameliorate Vaso‐Occlusion and Inflammation in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Gupta Parul , Kumar Ravindra 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTSickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary disorder characterized by vaso‐occlusion, inflammation, and tissue damage. Intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM‐1) plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of SCD by promoting the adhesion of sickle cells to the endothelium, contributing to vaso‐occlusion and tissue damage. The ICAM‐1 gene encodes a glycoprotein that interacts with lymphocyte function–associated antigen 1 (LFA‐1) and macrophage 1‐antigen (Mac‐1) receptors, perpetuating inflammation, and oxidative stress. The NF‐κB signaling pathway regulates ICAM‐1 expression, which is elevated in patients with SCD, leading to increased endothelial cell activation and damage. Targeting ICAM‐1 and its interactions with sickle cells and the endothelium has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for managing SCD. This review highlights the complex interplay between ICAM‐1, sickle cells, and the endothelium, and discusses the potential of ICAM‐1‐targeted therapies for mitigating VOC and improving the quality of life for patients with SCD.
Impact of nitrogen and phosphorus amendments on nitrogen‐cycling microbial abundances and potentials: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Tang Yuqian , Jia Yanru , Zhang Siqin , Zhang Yanjie 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe rapid increase in nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availabilities in terrestrial ecosystems has led to sustained shifts in soil microbial communities and microbially‐mediated N‐cycling. However, the specific effects of N and P amendments on N‐cycling microbes are poorly understood. This meta‐analysis synthesizes the effects of N and/or P amendments on the abundances and functional potentials of N‐cycling genes involved in N₂ fixation, organic N mineralization, nitrification, and denitrification across natural ecosystems and diverse soil conditions in China. Our findings indicate that ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB) showed greater responsiveness to N amendment than ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA), and AOB amoA abundance increased while AOA amoA abundance decreased with P amendments. Additionally, the abundance of nirS declined, while nirK abundance remained unresponsive to both N and P amendments. These findings highlight the distinct ecological niches occupied by microbial groups with equivalent functions in response to N and P amendments. Moreover, our findings indicate that soil N and P availabilities, along with soil acidification induced by N additions and microbial biomass carbon content, are key factors regulating N‐cycling gene abundances and potentials. The driving mechanisms for N‐cycling genes and their corresponding potentials appear to be distinct, with gene abundance showing only a limited influence on functional potentials. This suggests that factors such as soil properties and microbial community compositions may be more critical determinants of N‐cycling processes than functional gene abundances with regard to scenarios of increasing N and P deposition.
Masting and Efficient Production of Seedlings: Balancing Costs of Variation Through Synchronised Fruiting
Authors: Bogdziewicz Michal , Chybicki Igor , Szymkowiak Jakub , Ulaszewski Bartosz , Burczyk Jaroslaw , Szarek‐Łukaszewska Grażyna , Meyza Katarzyna , Sztupecka Ewa , Ledwoń Mateusz , Piechnik Łukasz , Seget Barbara , Kondrat Katarzyna , Holeksa Jan , Żywiec Magdalena 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTThe efficient conversion of tissues into reproductive success is a crucial aspect affecting the evolution of life histories. Masting, the interannually variable and synchronous seed production in perennial plants, is a strategy that can enhance reproductive efficiency by mitigating seed predation and pollen limitation. However, evaluating benefits is insufficient to establish whether efficiency has improved, as such assessments neglect the associated costs of masting, particularly during the critical seed‐to‐seedling stage. We conducted a parentage analysis of seedlings and adults in a population of 209 Sorbus aucuparia trees, monitored over 23 years, providing pioneering documentation of the effects of masting on the fitness of individual trees beyond the seed stage. Our results show high costs of interannual variation that can be mitigated by high synchrony and reveal the existence of phenotypes that appear to reap the benefits of masting while avoiding its costs through regular reproduction.