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Quantum phase synchronization revealing few-hundred femtosecond coherence in cryptophyte phycoerythrin 545 antenna from exciton–vibrational coupling
Quantum beats lasting a few hundred femtoseconds have been regarded as signatures of quantum energy transfer in photosynthetic antennae. The fragile coherence at room temperature casts doubt on its long-lived feature arising from the electronic coherence. Recently, the long-lived exciton–vibrational coherences of several hundred femtoseconds via quantum phase synchronization of the resonant higher frequency collective vibrational modes have been observed in core antenna allophycocyanin from algae. The long-lived coherence has an inherent property of protecting the coherence against the noisy environment. This is achieved by dissipation of the resonant anti-symmetric collective vibrational modes coupled to the excitonic levels, which have fast dephasing, leaving only the non-dissipative correlated symmetric modes [R. Zhu et al., Nat. Commun. 15, 3171 (2024)], which is different from that induced by the environmental low frequency modes. Coherence with a lifetime constant of 200 fs at room temperature has been observed in the cryptophyte phycoerythrin 545 (PE545) antenna before, while its origin, i.e., pure electronic or exciton–vibrational, remains to be explored. Here, we investigated coherent energy transfer dynamics in PE545 via two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy. A long-lasting coherence with a lifetime constant of 270 fs in the dynamical Stokes shift dynamics was observed. Especially, the high frequency vibrational mode at 1150 cm−1 is absent in the electronic energy dissipation process reflected in the dynamical Stokes’ shifts spectrum, which is near resonant with the electronic gap of 1080 cm−1. Therefore, the facts strongly suggest that the long-lived coherence in PE545 is realized by the resonant exciton–vibrational coupling via quantum phase synchronization.
A scoping review and quality assessment of machine learning techniques in identifying maternal risk factors during the peripartum phase for adverse child development
Maternal exposure to environmental risk factors (e.g., heavy metal exposure) or mental health problems during the peripartum phase has been shown to lead to negative and lasting impacts on child development and life in adulthood. Given the importance of identifying early markers within highly complex and heterogeneous perinatal factors, machine learning techniques emerge as a promising tool. The main goal of the current scoping review was to summarize the evidence on the application of machine learning techniques in predicting or identifying risk factors during peripartum for child development. A critical appraisal was also conducted to evaluate various aspects, including representativeness, data leakage, validation, performance metrics, and interpretability. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify studies published prior to the 14th of January 2025. Review selection and data extraction were performed by three independent reviewers. After removing duplicates, the searches yielded 10,336 studies, of which 60 studies were included in the final report. Among these 60 machine learning studies, a majority were pattern-focused, using machine learning primarily as a tool to more accurately describe associations between variables, while 16 studies were prediction-focused (26.7%), exploring the predictive performance of their models. For prediction-focused machine learning studies, a diverse range of methodologies was observed. The quality assessment showed that all studies had some important criteria that were not fully met, with deviations ranging from minor to major, limiting the interpretability and generalizability of the reported findings. Future research should aim at addressing these limitations to enhance the robustness and applicability of machine learning models in this field.
Brown juice processed from alfalfa green biomass as a source of phytohormones and saponins
Abstract The valorization of by-products from green biorefineries is critical for environmental sustainability and economic viability. During the extraction of leaf proteins from alfalfa green biomass, significant volumes of brown juice (BJ) are generated. This study assessed the phytohormonal profile and anti-nutritional elements in BJ post-lacto-fermentation, examining its potential as a plant biostimulant. Fresh BJ was lacto-fermented using Pediococcus acidilactici, Lactobacillus paracasei, and Lactobacillus plantarum at 35 °C for 48 h. Phytochemical analysis via HPLC-MS/MS identified 18 saponins in BJ, with only medicagenic acid remaining post-fermentation, whose concentration increased 39-fold. Additionally, 23 plant hormone derivatives were quantified, with significant increases observed in indole-3-acetic acid, gibberellin GA1, jasmonic acid, and abscisic acid, while others like p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid decreased. These results demonstrate lacto-fermentation’s ability to stabilize BJ, reduce haemolytic saponins, and enhance phytohormone concentrations, supporting its utility as a sustainable plant growth enhancer.
The time-resolved photoelectron spectrum of <i>trans</i>-azobenzene and its relationship with the photoisomerization mechanism: A surface hopping simulation with determination of Dyson orbitals
We performed a simulation of the time-resolved photoelectron spectrum (TRPES) of trans-azobenzene after ππ∗ excitation in a mixed quantum–classical framework. The electronic structure of the molecule and of its cation was obtained with a semiempirical multireference configuration interaction approach, the nonadiabatic dynamics was simulated with the surface hopping algorithm, and the TRPES was determined by computing the relevant Dyson orbitals. According to our results, the TRPES obtained with a probe photon energy of 6.0 eV shows two bands, the one at higher energy being due to the S2 electronic state of the molecule and the other one to the S1 state. For both bands, the main contribution to the spectrum originates from the D0 state of the cation. Our simulated TRPES is in very good agreement with the available experimental data, both in terms of the energetic positions of the bands and their lifetimes. Our findings confirm that the wavelength dependence of the photoisomerization quantum yields of trans-azobenzene is not due to a peculiar nonadiabatic decay process, as previously inferred from the experimental TRPES. Rather, the reason for the violation of Kasha’s rule is that different regions of the nuclear phase space are explored in S1, whether this state is populated by direct excitation or by the radiationless decay of S2.
Epimedin C enhances mitochondrial energy supply by regulating the interaction between MIC25 and UBC in rodent model
The study investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying the skeletal muscle-enhancing effects of Epimedin C, a natural flavonoid, focusing on its interaction with the mitochondrial cristae structural protein MIC25. Using C57BL/6 mice, we demonstrate that Epimedin C enhances exercise performance through preservation of mitochondrial function. Proteomic analysis identified MIC25 as a key protein modulated by Epimedin C, whose stability is regulated via ubiquitin-dependent degradation. Functional experiments revealed that Epimedin C disrupts the interaction between MIC25 and ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme C (UBC), preventing MIC25 degradation and maintaining the integrity of the mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS). This stabilization preserves mitochondrial cristae structure, improves ATP production, and delays muscle fatigue. Notably, MIC25 overexpression mimicked Epimedin C’s effects, while its knockdown abolished these benefits. Our findings establish MIC25 as a critical effector of Epimedin C, elucidating a novel pathway through which flavonoids maintain mitochondrial homeostasis to enhance muscle function. These insights hold promise for developing therapies targeting muscle atrophy and metabolic disorders.
Investigation of dust distribution patterns in open-pit coal mines under varying wind speed and air humidity
Excited states of the uniform electron gas
The uniform electron gas (UEG) is a cornerstone of density-functional theory (DFT) and the foundation of the local-density approximation, one of the most successful approximations in DFT. In this work, we extend the concept of UEG by introducing excited-state UEGs, systems characterized by a gap at the Fermi surface created by the excitation of electrons near the Fermi level. We report closed-form expressions of the reduced kinetic and exchange energies of these excited-state UEGs as functions of the density and the gap. In addition, we derive the leading term of the correlation energy in the high-density limit. By incorporating an additional variable representing the degree of excitation into the UEG paradigm, the present work introduces a new framework for constructing local and semi-local state-specific functionals for excited states.
Impacts of climate change on the distribution pattern of Himalayan Rhubarb (Rheum australe D. Don) in Nepal Himalaya
While there has been substantial consensus that climate change poses a severe threat to the Himalayan biota; we still lack comprehensive data on the potential impact of climate change on the important Himalayan medicinal plants connected with the livelihood of local people and the national economy. In this study, using MaxEnt, we modelled the distribution pattern of Rheum australe, a medicinal plant prioritized by the Government of Nepal for the nation’s economic prosperity, for the current as well as all four future projections (SSP126, SSP245, SSP370, and SSP585) to all the data available periods (2021–2040, 2041–2060, 2061–2080, and 2081–2100). In addition, we performed spatial overlay analysis to identify the optimum zones that could be developed as potential planting/conservation sites for R. australe in any of the projected future climate scenarios. Our results revealed that the suitability area of R. australe is expected to contract in all the scenarios and periods with a significant loss expected to occur in SSP585 for 2081–2100. On the individual district level, northwestern districts are expected to have a huge loss of suitable habitats in the future, while four districts: Jumla, Kalikot, Dolpa, and Jajarkot of the Karnali Province are expected to gain suitable habitats remarkably. Therefore, we suggest that the forests and rangelands of the four districts at an elevation range of 3300 m – 4,400 m could be developed as potential planting areas for commercial cultivation/for establishing genetic resource conservation centres. This finding thus has wider policy implications for both government and conservation organizations.
Relative engagement with sources of climate misinformation is growing across social media platforms
Archaeology field notebook
Deciphering σ-aromaticity and transition-metal-directed structural evolution in RuSi12−/RuSi12 clusters: Synergistic photoelectron spectroscopy and <i>ab initio</i> insights
We present a combined photoelectron spectroscopy and multilevel computational study [B3LYP/CCSD(T)] elucidating the geometric/electronic structure and aromatic stabilization of ruthenium-doped silicon clusters. Anion photoelectron spectrum of RuSi12− reveals two distinct detachment features at 3.34 eV [vertical detachment energy (VDE)] and 3.8–4.4 eV, with an adiabatic detachment energy (ADE) of 3.17 eV, indicating significant neutral-state structural reorganization. Theoretical analysis identifies the global minimum as a D2d-symmetric bicapped pentagonal prism, validated by &lt;5.5% deviation between experimental and calculated VDE/ADE. RuSi12 neutral adopts a D6h-symmetric hexagonal prism with elongated Ru–Si bonds (2.64 vs 2.57 Å in anion), demonstrating charge-state-dependent geometric flexibility. Natural population analysis reveals strong Ru–Si charge transfer (−3.487 e on Ru in anion), while molecular orbital and AdNDP/NICS analyses uncover unprecedented σ-aromaticity through 30 delocalized electrons (Hückel 4N + 2, N = 7) and diatropic ring currents. Comparative studies with NbSi12− highlight transition-metal-driven symmetry modulation: Ru’s 4d-orbital participation enables adaptable bonding networks (WBI: Ru–Si = 0.44–0.48 vs Si–Si = 0.77–0.86), contrasting with Nb’s rigid σ/π-delocalized framework. This work establishes transition-metal doping as a strategic tool for tailoring silicon cluster properties in catalysis and nanoelectronics.
Topic modeling and evolutionary trends of China’s language policy: A LDA-ARIMA approach
Background Language policy serves as an essential tool for governments to guide and regulate language development. However, China’s current language policy faces challenges like outdated analytical methods, inefficiencies caused by policy misalignment, and the absence of predictive frameworks. This study provides a comprehensive overview of China’s language policy by identifying key topics and predicting future trends. Methods We employ the Latent Dirichlet Allocation topic model and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model systematically analyze and predict the evolution of China’s language policy. By gathering a large-scale textual data of 1,420 policy texts from 2001–2023 on official websites, we achieve both topic extraction and evolution prediction. Results This study reveals that: (1) Language life, language education, and language resources have high popularity indexes, and language education and language planning exhibit high expected values. (2) The theme intensity of most topics has been a significant upward trend since 2014, with significant fluctuations during T1-T2. (3) From 2001 to 2023, the actual and fitted values show an overall positive trend. In 2024–2028, the predicted value of language resources stabilizes after a brief decline in 2024, while other topics show upward trends. Conclusions This study extracts 1,420 policy texts from official websites and outlines the following findings: (1) Language policies focus on maintaining a harmonious linguistic environment, addressing educational inequality, and protecting language resources. (2) Since 2014, most topics have exhibited fluctuating yet sustained growth trend, particularly in language education and research. (3) Except for language resources, the predicted values of the remaining six topics will show a growing trend from 2024 to 2028. Based on these findings, we propose policy recommendations such as strengthening language research, developing a multilingual education system, and optimizing language resource management.
Prolonged effects of adenoviral vector priming on T-cell cytokine production in heterologous adenoviral vector/mRNA COVID-19 vaccination regimens
Formation of composite C60-perylene layers on a silver substrate
Molecules provide versatile building blocks capable of generating remarkably diverse macromolecular systems. Such bottom-up nanofabrication approaches are currently often used to create a range of molecular architectures at surfaces via molecular self-assembly. In this perspective, we present an STM study of the formation of composite layers of organic molecules designed by depositing C60 fullerene on a previously formed multilayer of perylene on an Ag(110) substrate. We underline the interest in studying mixed layers of these two molecules forming a weakly interacting system. The room temperature STM study at the molecular scale, complemented with modeling of the intermolecular interactions, revealed that adsorption of C60 does occur on top of the outer perylene compact rows along the [1–10] substrate axis. The fullerenes tend to aggregate within alignments along the axis of the compact rows of the perylene structure; the higher the coverage, the longer the alignments. In the most compact ones, the C60s are periodically positioned at a 2b1 distance, b1 being the inter-perylene distance within the [1–10] compact rows. Furthermore, the C60s adsorb preferably on “Short bridge” sites, meaning above and between the underlying upper perylenes. Modeling of the intermolecular interactions in this system confirms the STM measurements and points to the ability of the underlying perylene multi-layer to drive the fullerene assembly.
The association of sarcopenia, possible sarcopenia and cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Objectives The study aimed to investigate the relationship between sarcopenia, possible sarcopenia, and cognitive impairment, and to analyze the impact of potential moderating factors. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, EmBase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang Databases, VIP and SinoMed from inception until March 2025. The quality of cross-sectional studies was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Scale, while the Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of included case-control and cohort studies. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were employed to explore potential moderating variables and heterogeneity. Results A total of 31 studies were included in this systematic review, of which 27 studies were quantitatively analyzed. The meta-analysis revealed that both sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia significantly associated with cognitive impairment (OR=1.88, 95%CI = 1.71–2.08), (OR=1.96, 95%CI = 1.50–2.58). Subgroup analyses revealed a stronger association between sarcopenia and cognitive impairment in specific demographics: among females with sarcopenia (OR=3.22, 95%CI = 1.23–8.40), in Asian populations (OR=1.96, 95%CI = 1.76–2.18), and within hospital settings (OR=3.12, 95%CI = 2.18–4.48). These findings underscore the influence of gender, ethnicity, and healthcare environment on the relationship between sarcopenia and cognitive impairment. An assessment of publication bias within studies providing adjusted odds ratios indicated potential bias. However, sensitivity analyses and trim-and-filling analyses confirmed the robustness of our findings, suggesting that the observed associations remain reliable despite the presence of publication bias. Conclusions Individuals with sarcopenia or possible sarcopenia have approximately twice the odds of developing cognitive impairment compared to those without sarcopenia. Implementing systematic screening and targeted interventions for possible sarcopenia patients is essential to prevent from cognitive decline. Specifically, healthcare professionals should focus on women and inpatients with sarcopenia, employing proactive measures to avert cognitive impairment.
Mechanical model and constructional behavior for center diaphragm in shallow tunnel
Simulation of mechanical properties of two-dimensional silicon carbide film with stochastically distributed vacancy defects
The tensile dynamics of two-dimensional silicon carbide (2D-SiC) films containing stochastically distributed vacancy defects were investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. The findings indicate that the mechanical properties of the films, including fracture strength, strain at break, and Young’s modulus, are little affected by the film size and the type of vacancy-containing defects, whereas the temperature and the concentration of defects have more significant effects on the mechanical properties. The mechanical properties of the films decreased significantly with the increase in the concentration of vacancy defects (temperature). Furthermore, the influence of vacancy defect types on film mechanical characteristics exhibits temperature-dependent variations. The fundamental understanding of the mechanical behavior provides useful guidance for the design of electronic devices using 2D-SiC films and possible limitations.
Association between androgen receptor gene and behavioral traits in cats (Felis catus)
Cats (Felis catus) are companions familiar to people worldwide. Despite their popularity, few studies have investigated the genetic background of their behavior. This study aimed to explore the relationship between candidate gene genotypes and behavioral traits in cats. Behavioral traits were assessed by cat owners using the Feline Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (Fe-BARQ), comprising 23 categories. The target gene was the androgen receptor gene (AR) associated with behavioral phenotypes such as aggressiveness across species. Specifically, the polymorphism of glutamine repeats within the AR exon 1 region was analyzed in 280 neutered/spayed mixed-breed cats (145 males and 135 females), revealing eight alleles with 15–22 repeats. These alleles were categorized into two groups based on the median: short (≤18 repeats) and long (≥19 repeats) types. Generalized linear model analysis revealed that cats carrying the short types displayed higher “purring” scores. Furthermore, male cats with short-type alleles showed higher “directed calls/vocalizations” scores, whereas females with short-type alleles showed higher “stranger-directed aggression” scores, than their respective counterparts with long-type alleles. Additionally, the comparative analysis of the homologous regions of felid AR genes revealed that long alleles with 20–22 repeats were specific to cats. This finding suggests that cats with a strong tendency to receive human care from birth may survive without vocal communication, leading to an increase in the frequency of the long alleles. This study provides the first evidence that AR glutamine repeats may be associated with specific behavioral traits in cats, and the findings have potential applications in improving animal welfare by predicting behavioral tendencies based on genetic data.