bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sustainability science approach in sub-Saharan Africa: key lessons from five case studies
Authors: Chaves-Chaparro Juliana , Aguirre-Bastos Carlos , Domínguez-Gómez José Andrés
Published: February 2025

In 2015, the United Nations adopted 17 sustainable development objectives (SDGs) with goals to be reached by 2030. However, as amply reported in the scientific and development literature, none of the goals are on track to be achieved globally. This is particularly true for sub-Saharan Africa. Under a complex socio-environmental context, it is argued that major transformations and new approaches demand a stronger science–policy–society interface. Given the dynamic, multi- and interdisciplinary nature of the research for and on SDGs, there is a broad consensus that sustainability science is one of the instrumental approaches to their implementation. Based on sociological grounds, and in a framework of innovation systems and knowledge production, this paper aims to analyze the main challenges of five sub-Saharan African countries regarding innovation and knowledge production within the sustainability science approach. Based on primary data arising from field interviews and focus groups, and combined with desk research and bibliometric studies, the paper presents differences and commonalities among the country studies. These are used toward the definition of a set of five principles to guide the uptake of the sustainable science approach in the subregion in the discussion section: fostering intra-regional cooperation; multi- and interdisciplinary research; involving other stakeholders and knowledge systems; reinforcing the science–policy interface; and the evaluation data and methods.
Explorations of Energy Generation in a Two-Magnets Coil System Under a Large Spacer
Authors: Kurt Erol , Kurt Zehra Tuğçe , Kurt Elif Gökçen
Published: February 2025

An optimized form of a two-magnets coil system (TMCS) has been explored and analyzed experimentally. This device has larger spacer of 3 cm compared to our previous devices, thereby a lower recalling magnetic force occurs inside the center of the windings and the magnets can move more freely along the axis. This process enhances the displacements of the magnets and generates more powerful outputs. In addition, the mechanical excitations at low frequencies become more obvious compared to our previous system. The power density of 20.487 μW/cm3 has been achieved for the new designed electromagnetic harvester. The maximum peak-to-peak voltage has been measured as 60 mV under the electrical load 4 Ω. It is believed that this optimized device can be more successful for engineering applications with an enhanced power.
Evaluation of the anticancer effects of hydroxycinnamic acid isomers on breast cancer stem cells
Authors: Burhanoğlu Tülin , Halbutoğulları Zehra Seda , Turhal Gulseren , Demiroglu-Zergeroglu Asuman
Published: February 2025

Research on breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) is crucial for improving our understanding of their roles in tumor resistance, metastasis, and relapse. This study investigated the anti-cancer effects of two isomers of hydroxycinnamic acids (HCA): para-coumaric acid (PCA) and ortho-coumaric acid (OCA) on breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). The isolated and characterized stem cells contained CD44 + /CD24 surface markers, exhibited high levels of aldehyde dehydrogenase activity, and were able to form mammospheres. The evaluation of HCAs on stem cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis was conducted by comparing them with MCF-7, the luminal breast cancer cell line. The viability and immunoblot analyses demonstrated that HCA applications resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in the number of viable cells and inhibited phosphorylation of Extracellular regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2). These findings were supported by the detection of suppressed colony formation and delayed wound-healing in HCA-exposed cells. E-cadherin expression increased in OCA-treated cells. Additionally, the arrest of G1/S phase progression and the downregulation of Cyclin D1 expression exhibited that OCA and PCA-induced cytostatic effects in BSCS cells. After treatment, the increased Annexin-V/7-AAD staining, along with elevated expression of caspase-3/7 and a decreased Bcl-2/Bax ratio, indicated apoptosis mediated by the activation of Janus kinase (JNK) and p38 Mitogen-activated kinase (p38 MAPK). In conclusion, both OCA and PCA exhibit anti-carcinogenic potential on BCSCs; However, OCA has a stronger effect and is becoming a promising candidate for further research.
Optical Processing of Melting PCM Bridges in Microgravity Using SVD and ANNs
Authors: Salgado Sánchez Pablo , Varas Fernando , Porter Jeff , Gligor Dan
Published: February 2025

Both Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) can be powerful tools for image processing. Here they are applied in the context of the “Effect of Marangoni Convection on Heat Transfer in Phase Change Materials” (MarPCM) microgravity experiment [Porter et al. (Acta Astronautica 210, 212–223, 2023)], which investigates the use of thermocapillary (Marangoni) convection to expedite melting of organic Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in cuboidal and cylindrical domains. The processing of the cylindrical “melting bridge” experimental images is particularly challenging due to the converging lens effect caused by the curved interface and the refractive index of the liquid PCM. A combination of SVD and ANNs is used to propose an algorithm to process these images. The network is trained on a set of synthetic images of the melting bridge, generated via ray-tracing [Martinez et al. (Advances in Space Research 72, 1915–1928, 2023)] then projected onto the eigenmodes associated with the largest singular values of the image database, which includes snapshots of the melting process in all representative cases. Two optimal algorithm architectures are described, characterized by the number of SVD modes considered in the projection and the hyperparameters of the ANN. The performance of the algorithm is analyzed in terms of its ability to associate images with the correct liquid fraction. The processing strategy is tested by applying it to images obtained from ground experiments using the scientific prototype of the MarPCM cuboidal cell.
Invariant Graphs and Dynamics of a Family of Continuous Piecewise Linear Planar Maps
Authors: Cima Anna , Gasull Armengol , Mañosa Víctor , Mañosas Francesc
Published: February 2025

We consider the family of piecewise linear maps

$$\begin{aligned} F_{a,b}(x,y)=\left( |x| - y + a, x - |y| + b\right) , \end{aligned}$$

F

a
,
b

(
x
,
y
)

=

|
x
|
-
y
+
a
,
x
-
|
y
|
+
b

,

where

$$(a,b)\in {{\mathbb {R}}}^2$$

(
a
,
b
)

∈

R

2

. This family belongs to a wider one that has deserved some interest in the recent years as it provides a framework for generalized Lozi-type maps. Among our results, we prove that for

$$a\ge 0$$

a
≥
0

all the orbits are eventually periodic and moreover that there are at most three different periodic behaviors formed by at most seven points. For

$$a<0$$

a
<
0

we prove that for each

$$b\in {{\mathbb {R}}}$$

b
∈
R

there exists a compact graph

$$\Gamma ,$$

Γ
,

which is invariant under the map F, such that for each

$$(x,y)\in {{\mathbb {R}}}^2$$

(
x
,
y
)

∈

R

2

there exists

$$n\in {\mathbb {N}}$$

n
∈
N

(that may depend on x) such that

$$F_{a,b}^n(x,y)\in \Gamma .$$

F

a
,
b

n

(
x
,
y
)

∈
Γ
.

We give explicitly all these invariant graphs and we characterize the dynamics of the map restricted to the corresponding graph for all

$$(a,b)\in {\mathbb {R}}^2$$

(
a
,
b
)

∈

R

2

obtaining, among other results, a full characterization of when

$$F_{a,b}|_{\Gamma }$$

F

a
,
b

|

Γ

has positive or zero entropy.
Towards a holistic assessment of landslide susceptibility models: insights from the Central Eastern Alps
Authors: Schlögl Matthias , Spiekermann Raphael , Steger Stefan
Published: February 2025

Statistical landslide susceptibility modelling is commonly used for identifying areas with an increased likelihood of landslide occurrence, given evidence of historic events and a potentially arbitrary number of explanatory features. Despite its widespread use, the actual utility and plausibility of the resulting models and maps is sometimes neglected at the expense of model performance. Here we present a landslide susceptibility map for the northern part of Carinthia, Austria, using random forest models within an extensive ensemble modelling and hyperparameter tuning framework. We discuss the importance and effects of the most relevant features retained after feature selection through a geomorphic lens. These results form the basis on a discussion of integrating considerations of geomorphic plausibility, model interpretability and reproducibility next to quantitative model performance metrics for assessing model utility. Including these aspects enhances the applicability of the results for decision-making in landslide risk management, thereby also increasing their reliability under scientific scrutiny.
Existence of entire solutions vanishing at infinity by positive drift
Authors: Vitolo Antonio
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we consider a boundary-asymptotic value problem for second-order uniformly elliptic equations with possibly unbounded coefficients. Problems of this kind arise in stochastic control settings. By assuming a positive drift, and the finiteness of a hybrid norm of the source, we obtain the existence of solutions, vanishing at infinity, in any unbounded domain, including the whole n-dimensional space (entire solutions). We use a new ABP type estimate, independent on the size and the geometry of domains, due to positive drift, possibly unbounded, and viscosity methods to carry out a converging approximation process. Suitable limitations on the spatial oscillations of second-order terms allow to obtain strong and classical solutions.
Safety assessment of Mn-based lithium-ion battery: thermal stability and vent gas explosion characteristics
Authors: Xu Chengshan , Huang Jingru , Dong Wenyu , Wang Peiben , Zhang Mengqi , Feng Xuning , Ouyang Minggao
Published: February 2025

Driven by the goals of carbon neutrality, electrochemical storage technologies play a vital role in supporting the integration of renewable energy and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. The Mn-based rechargeable battery (MnRB) is gaining significant attention in the battery industry due to its high voltage platform and high energy density, making it a potential alternative in the e-bike and energy storage system area. The safety performance of MnRB is crucial for its widespread application. However, there has been a scarcity of studies evaluating the safety of MnRB. In this study, the thermal safety behavior of a commercial Mn-based composite cathode battery from the perspectives of "heat generation-gas emission- explosion risks". Its safety performance was compared with that of existing batteries using Li(NixCoyMnz)O2 and LiFePO4(LFP) as cathode materials. The results indicate that MnRB exhibits a higher triggering temperature, 0.8% lower than Li(Ni0.5Co0.2Mn0.3)O2 (NCM523) and approximately 12.7% lower than LFP. MnRB's normalized gas emission during thermal runway (TR) is 1.3% lower than that of NCM523, with the primary gas components being CO, H2, and CO2. The lower explosion limit of MnRB is approximately 2.7% lower than NCM523 and 44.0% higher than LFP. MnRB exhibits intermediate thermal stability and combustion-explosion characteristics between NCM523 and LFP. This study provides valuable data on MnRB's TR behavior, offering a comprehensive assessment of MnRB's intrinsic safety performance through quantitative evaluation. The findings present clear directions for designing, optimizing, and implementing safety measures for MnRB against TR.
Fluid balance in critical illness: choosing our words wisely
Authors: Braun Chloe G. , Selewski David T. , Dziorny Adam C. , Hasson Denise C.
Published: February 2025

It is becoming well accepted that excess fluid buildup, especially in critically ill patients, is both common and portends worse outcomes. With the increasing number of publications over the last 20 years to describe these associations, there have been increasing calls for the harmonization of terminology, with the terms fluid balance, fluid accumulation, and fluid overload predominating. Utilization of the term “fluid overload” to describe all states of positive fluid balance introduces inherent bias, as not all positive fluid balance is associated with deleterious outcomes. The utilization of neutral terminology is important as it allows for the interpretation of fluid status in the context of an individual patient’s pathophysiology, phase of illness, and progression of disease. Fluid nomenclature should be clear and standardized so that fluid balance goals can be set and re-evaluated in a matter understood across disciplines to inform management changes. Together, in a multidisciplinary manner, we must harmonize our nomenclature in order to optimize our clinical assessment of percent cumulative fluid balance and develop an individualized approach to reducing fluid accumulation to improve clinical outcomes. Herein we provide a brief report describing (1) the history and definition of the term fluid overload, (2) the changing paradigm of fluid balance and accumulation, and (3) a proposed framework for the harmonization of terminology.
The bilateral cross communication in microbiota-gut-brain axis as a promising therapeutic target for Alzheimer’s disease: a focus on neuroinflammation
Authors: Yehualashet Awgichew Shewasinad , Melaku Ermiyas Endewunet , Gebreyes Demissew Shenkute , Wassie Tilahun Alelign , Sahilu Berhanu Yitayew
Published: February 2025

The microbiota- gut-brain interaction is a fundamental aspect of the synergy between microbiota and host in accessing gut-brain signaling pathways to modulate brain function and behavior. The bilateral cross-communication, which might be direct or indirect, within the line of gut-brain axis is becoming a promising therapeutic target for central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Dysbiosis creates an imbalance in the abundance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microbiota species, and the microbiota species’ availability may vary based on the type of neurodegenerative diseases. The final outcome (i.e., dysbiosis) follows a similar approach, leading to a shift towards a pro-inflammatory state in the gut, increased gut permeability, and triggered peripheral inflammatory response consequently occurs. To fully exploit the impact of gut microbiota for therapeutic interventions in AD, scientific investigations help to understand the complex neuroinflammatory mechanisms in investigating the potential of modulating the gut microbiota for future therapies.
Constitutional Additives in China's Hong Kong: Could central constitutional decision-making for a region under a hybrid regime ever be illegitimate?
Authors: Lo Pui-yin
Published: February 2025

This article examines the central-local relation between China's unitary and socialist state and its capitalist Special Administrative Region (SAR) of Hong Kong, and considers that, notwithstanding the centralised system underpinning the relationship, Chinese central decision-making in respect of Hong Kong could raise issues of legitimacy. This article focuses on the decision-making of China's National People's Congress and its Standing Committee between 2016 and 2021, purportedly pursuant to the Chinese Constitution and the Hong Kong Basic Law (the instruments providing for Hong Kong's different systems). Upon examination, this article argues that legitimacy-based inhibition, restriction, and resistance arises in relation to the legal control exercised by the Chinese central authorities over Hong Kong. This is made possible by the ‘conditionality’ of the Basic Law, framed as the implementation of China's policies for the return of Hong Kong on 1 July 1997, and by the nurturing of the perceived pluralistic premise of the policy of ‘One Country, Two Systems’ by Hong Kong's common law judges and lawyers in their interpretation and application of the ‘imposed constitution’ of the Basic Law.
Adverse childhood experiences, mental distress, and autoimmune disease in adult women: findings from two large cohort studies
Authors: Köhler-Forsberg Ole , Ge Fenfen , Aspelund Thor , Wang Yue , Fang Fang , Tomasson Gunnar , Thordadottir Edda , Hauksdóttir Arna , Song Huan , Valdimarsdottir Unnur A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been associated with increased risks of autoimmune diseases. However, data are scarce on the role of specific ACEs as well as the potential mediating role of adverse mental health symptoms in this association.

Methods

A cohort study using the nationwide Icelandic Stress-And-Gene-Analysis (SAGA, 22,423 women) cohort and the UK Biobank (UKB, 86,492 women) was conducted. Participants self-reported on five ACEs. Twelve autoimmune diseases were self-reported in SAGA and identified via hospital records in UKB. Poisson regression was used to assess the cross-sectional association between ACEs and autoimmune diseases in both cohorts. Using longitudinal data on self-reported mental health symptoms in the UKB, we used causal mediation analyses to study potential mediation by depressive, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms in the association between ACEs and autoimmune diseases.

Results

The prevalence of ACEs was 50% in SAGA and 35% in UKB, while the prevalence of autoimmune diseases was 29% (self-reported) and 14% (clinically confirmed), respectively. In both cohorts, ACEs were associated with an increased prevalence ratio (PR) of any studied autoimmune disease in a dose–response manner (PR = 1.10 (95%CI = 1.08–1.12) per ACE), particularly for Sjögrens (PR = 1.34), polymyalgia rheumatica (PR = 1.20), rheumatoid arthritis (PR = 1.14), systemic lupus erythematosus (PR = 1.13), and thyroid disease (PR = 1.11). Sexual abuse and physical and emotional neglect were consistently associated with an elevated prevalence of autoimmune diseases when including all ACEs in the model. Approximately one fourth of the association was mediated through depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Conclusions

These findings based on two large cohorts indicate a role of ACEs and corresponding mental health distress in autoimmune diseases among adult women.
Toxic Exports, ‘Third World’ Hunger and Pesticide Politics: International Pesticide Trade and Perception in West Germany from the 1960s to the 1980s
Authors: Brendel Benjamin
Published: February 2025

In the second half of the twentieth century, West Germany was one of the largest pesticide producers and exporters worldwide. Among these exports were substances that were unpopular, obsolete, or entirely banned due to their health risks. The country case adds to our knowledge of global pesticide politics in three ways: First, politicians and industry used hunger in the Global South as an argument to justify export practices in the 1970s. Second, public criticism against this export was only successful when the health of German citizens was perceived to be under threat. Third, industry arguments led to creative and legal ways to export substances that have been problematised in the Global North. In view of this, the current EU initiative to regulate banned pesticide trade, though important, appears to remain tentative or ineffective.
Bob Morris, the exceptional interlocutor
Authors: Kiss Zsuzsanna
Published: February 2025

Bob Morris first influenced social historians in Hungary through personal contacts, but these contacts were later strengthened by institutional networks. The post-transition historiography of Eastern Europe found concepts in Morris’ work that dovetailed with the rise of interest in researching the history of the public sphere and the understanding of structural changes in society. However, because of the different historical traditions of the region, these concepts could not be easily transposed. Nevertheless, the work of Bob Morris is often cited in research on modern urban forms of associational life. His work on urban history is systematically being introduced to younger generations through one of the principal handbooks for teaching social history at the university level. Most importantly, Bob Morris’ approach to research and his enthusiasm for conversation with scholars at all stages of their careers will long be remembered, and his work guides urban historians across the continent.
The Bergen 4-day treatment for specific phobia of vomiting: a case series
Authors: Davidsdottir Sóley Dröfn , Hjartarson Kristján Helgi , Ludvigsdottir Sigurbjörg Jóna , Gunnarsson Ásmundur , Vidar Sigurdur , Kvale Gerd , Hansen Bjarne , Hagen Kristen , Öst Lars-Göran
Published: February 2025

Background:

Specific phobia of vomiting (SPOV), also called emetophobia, is a debilitating condition that shares features with several other anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Approximately half of sufferers from SPOV do not fully benefit from current treatment modalities.

Aims:

Bergen 4-day treatment (B4DT) is a highly concentrated form of exposure and response prevention developed for OCD. This case series reports on the first participants undertaking the treatment for SPOV.

Method:

Five female participants underwent the B4DT adapted to SPOV. The Specific Phobia of Vomiting Scale (SPOVI) and Emetophobia Questionnaire (EmetQ-13) were administered pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Participants were also shown a 27-minute video portraying vomit-related stimuli of increasing intensity at pre- and post-treatment. The time participants managed to watch the video and their subjective anxiety and nausea were assessed at regular intervals. Reliable and clinically significant change were calculated on SPOVI post-treatment and at 6-month follow-up.

Results:

Four of the participants achieved clinically significant change and the fifth reliable improvement, and these results were maintained at 6-month follow-up. The participants watched the vomit-related stimuli video for an average of 10 minutes pre-treatment whereas all completed it post-treatment, experiencing considerably less anxiety. These results were maintained at 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion:

The B4DT may be a robust and time-effective treatment format for SPOV with low attrition rates, but further research is needed to verify this.
Quasi-optical modeling of a millimeter- and submillimeter-wave free-space characterization bench
Authors: Gaudin Gregory , Henry Clément , Bourreau Daniel , Peden Alain
Published: February 2025

In this article, we present a simulation tool for modeling a quasi-optical bench for material characterization. The model uses a Gaussian beam expansion and tracking analysis, together with a modal analysis to enable a comparison of the simulated reflection and transmission S-parameters to the ones measured with a 4-port vector network analyzer. A Thru-Reflect-Line calibration is performed to de-embed the simulated S-parameters of a dielectric slab located between two lens antennas, showing good agreement with the analytical slab model used for experimental permittivity extraction.
When Trait Reactance Moderates the Effect of Controlling Language on State Reactance
Authors: Wang Lingning , Rui Jian Raymond , Zeng Jing
Published: February 2025

Abstract: Background: Prior research demonstrates that state reactance is a function of message characteristics like controlling language and personalities like trait reactance. However, empirical evidence on whether trait reactance moderates the effect of controlling language on state reactance is inconsistent. Aims: The primary goal of this study is to provide a culture-centered explanation on the boundary of how trait reactance moderates the effect of controlling language on state reactance. Method: Two between-subject experiments, which recruited smokers ( N = 400) and nonsmokers ( N = 431) respectively, were conducted online. They both employed the same 2 (controlling language: high vs. low) × 2 (country: China vs. US) experimental design. Results: In both studies, trait reactance only moderated the effect of controlling language on state reactance in China. Specifically, trait reactance enhanced this effect among Chinese smokers and nonsmokers. Conversely, controlling language elevated the level of state reactance among American smokers, regardless of their trait reactance. Additionally, controlling language was directly related to state reactance only among smokers. The relationship between trait reactance and state reactance was only significant among American nonsmokers. Limitations: This study used a convenience sample and a single issue. Additionally, although the experiment message was adapted from other studies on psychological reactance, future research should pay attention to the possibility of certain confounders. Conclusion: Our investigation suggests that trait reactance may only moderate the impact of controlling language on state reactance in a culture that dismisses the priority of freedom. Hence, even in a culture where the importance of freedom is underestimated, health practitioners should refrain from making people feel their freedom is limited if their target population exhibits high levels of trait reactance.
Impact of NWP Model Configuration and Training Sample Characteristics on Random Forest‐Based Day‐1 Convective Outlook Guidance
Authors: Johnson Aaron , Wang Xuguang
Published: February 2025

This study aims to quantify and better understand the impact of an upgrade to the configuration of an FV3 (Finite Volume cubed‐sphere) LAM (Limited Area Model) convection‐allowing ensemble on the skill of the RF models trained on cases before the upgrade and forecast on cases after the upgrade. Specifically, Random Forest (RF) models were used to produce probabilistic forecasts of severe weather, significant severe weather, and individual hazards of wind, hail, and tornado for the purpose of day‐1 convective outlook guidance. The RF models are trained and forecast on different subsets of the available data set of forecast cases from the spring seasons of 2019 and 2021 (before the FV3 LAM upgrade) and 2022 (after the upgrade) and evaluated both quantitatively and qualitatively. It is found for most predictands that the RF models forecasting 2022 (2019/2021) cases are statistically significantly more skillful when trained on other cases from the 2022 (2019/2021) data set using a leave‐one‐out approach. However, within the 2019/2021 data set, training on cases from a different year than the year being forecast also leads to statistically significant degradations of skill, apparently at least in part due to the different sample climate between 2019 and 2021. For this particular NWP (Numerical Weather Prediction) model configuration change, the consistency in sample climate between training and forecast cases is at least as important as consistency in model configuration. Finally, increases in skill resulting from increasing the number of forecast cases used to train the RF levels off around 30 forecast cases.
The Lithosphere‐Asthenosphere System Beneath the North Atlantic and Surroundings: Results From Multi‐Observable Probabilistic Inversions
Authors: Salajegheh Farshad , Afonso Juan Carlos , Minakov Alexander , Ajourlou Parviz , Gaina Carmen , Ortega‐Gelabert Olga
Published: February 2025

The North Atlantic region is a complex geodynamic setting that comprises multiple continental blocks, sedimentary basins, mid‐ocean ridge systems and prominent hotspots. Recent geophysical surveys of the near‐surface have enhanced our understanding of crustal elements and the shallow lithosphere. However, our knowledge of the deep lithospheric structure and the physical state and dynamics of the upper mantle is still limited. Here, we exploit the combined sensitivity of surface‐wave data, geoid anomalies, absolute topography and surface heat flow to obtain full thermochemical models of the region from the surface down to 350 km. We jointly invert these data sets using a simulation‐based, multi‐observable probabilistic framework. We validate our results with independent thermobarometric and chemical information from mantle xenoliths and test the effects of using different seismic models on the inversion results. Our model reveals an intricate sublithospheric flow system, driven by the interaction of deep upwellings with the highly irregular lithospheric structure. We corroborate that the main thermal anomaly in the sublithospheric mantle shows a tilted geometry, moving toward Greenland with depth. We reveal that this large‐scale anomaly transition into a more complex pattern once it reaches depths of 150 km beneath the North Atlantic. Small‐scale downwellings originate from the margins of continental domains, resulting in a complex circulation pattern that limits the radial spread of the deep upwellings and preferentially focuses them within regions of thin lithosphere along a N–S direction. Distinct compositional anomalies in the Greenland lithosphere delineate the North Atlantic Craton, the Nagssugtoqidian mobile belt, and the covered remnants of the Disko Craton. In continental Europe, the East European Craton shows clear indications of depletion in incompatible elements, with the Kola‐Karelian cratonic region showing the highest levels of depletion. Our model serves as a base to make interpretations on the enigmatic paleotectonic history of the North‐Atlantic region.
Modeling Cold Spots on Mercury: Opportunities for BepiColombo Observations
Authors: Deutsch Ariel N. , Hayne Paul O. , Bauch Karin E. , Hiesinger Harald
Published: February 2025

“Cold spots” have been identified across the Moon as features with anomalously low nighttime temperatures emanating from small, young craters. The ESA/JAXA BepiColombo thermal radiometer will enable the first measurements of any cold spots on Mercury. Here we model temperatures of cold spots on Mercury for the time period of BepiColombo's mission. We find cold spots should be at least ∼6 K colder than their surroundings at all locations during the night, and up to ∼12 K colder at equatorial latitudes and hot‐pole longitudes. Cold spots will be coldest relative to their surroundings just after sunset and begin fading slightly during the long night before rapidly re‐equilibrating to their surrounding temperature at sunrise. We predict a cold spot formed from the impact of NASA's MESSENGER spacecraft would be ∼9 K colder than its surroundings at night, but only ∼145 m in diameter and so likely too small to be resolved.
Remarkable 2023 North Atlantic Ocean Warming
Authors: Carton James A. , Chepurin Gennady A. , Hackert Eric C. , Huang Boyin
Published: February 2025

In 2023 the NOAA Daily Optimum Interpolation Sea Surface Temperature in the Atlantic set new records, peaking above 24. 3°C for the full basin 30°S–60°N and above 25. 3°C for the North Atlantic 0–60°N, both for the first time during the satellite era. Proposed mechanisms include anomalous radiative and thermodynamic surface fluxes, horizontal transport, changing mixed layer thickness and basal entrainment rates. To test these ideas the heat budget of the ocean mixed layer was examined in a numerical simulation. The results show that the anomalous SSTs in the North Atlantic during the summer of 2023 were caused by increased shortwave warming and reduced thermodynamic cooling. In contrast, ocean mean and eddy heat transport convergence and heat exchanges along the mixed layer base dominate only regionally. A second contributor to the record SSTs was the preconditioning of mixed layer temperature following a series of anomalously warm years.
Ionospheric Plasma Parameters Measured by SPIDER‐2 Sounding Rocket During a Pulsating Aurora Event
Authors: Pérez‐Coll Jiménez Judit , Ivchenko Nickolay , Sergienko Tima , Strelnikov Boris , Hedin Jonas , Whiter Daniel K. , Brändström Urban , Giono Gabriel , Tolis Christos , Yokoyama Yoshihiro , Hosokawa Keisuke , Ogawa Yasunobu
Published: February 2025

The Small Payloads for Investigation of Disturbances in Electrojet by Rockets 2 (SPIDER‐2) sounding rocket was launched from Esrange, Sweden, on the 19th of February 2020 at 23:14 UT. It traversed a pulsating aurora event, deploying eight free falling units which provided in situ multi‐point measurements of the electric field, magnetic field and plasma parameters. In this article, the measured plasma parameters have been analyzed and compared with each other and with optical measurements obtained by ground based instrumentation. Peaks in electron density, thermal ion flux and optical emission have been found in the E region. Electron density profiles have been derived from the data collected by the Langmuir probes in two free falling units, the electron probes in the main rocket and the wave propagation experiment. A generally good agreement has been found among the different measurements in the up‐leg of the trajectory, while the effect of the rocket wake was evident in the down‐leg. The observed electron density profile has been found to agree with an incoming flux of high energetic electrons with energies around 20 keV. Auroral pulsations with a periodicity of 1–2 s have been recorded by an onboard photometer, a ground‐based high speed camera, and the in situ thermal ion flux. The percentages of variation between the ON and OFF phases of the pulsations have been quantified for these quantities. The brightness measured by the photometer varies up to 68%, while the thermal ion flux measurements show only a 2.5% variation.
Ash and Ice Aggregation in Satellite Retrieval: The 15 January 2022 Hunga Tonga‐Hunga Ha'apai Hydromagmatic Eruption
Authors: Romeo F. , Mereu L. , Scollo S.
Published: February 2025

Explosive volcanic eruptions inject volcanic particles, such as ash and water vapor, into the atmosphere. Ice enriched volcanic clouds can hide the presence of silicate particles, intensifying the fatal risks for aviation. In this scenario, satellite monitoring systems play a key role in volcanic hazard mitigation. Thanks to the full disk perspective over the Pacific Ocean, the GOES‐17 geostationary satellite observed the 15 January 2022 Hunga Tonga‐Hunga Ha'apai hydromagmatic eruption. The explosive activity produced two volcanic clouds dispersing at different altitudes. In this work, we first focus on the altitude estimates of the two volcanic clouds, by means of volcanic cloud speed and wind components. Next, we study how the fine ash (64 μm diameter) total mass in atmosphere varies depending on the assumed fraction of ash and ice in an aggregate. Based on our estimates, the upper volcanic cloud disperses between 27.35 3.01 and 29.13 3.20 km altitude; the lower cloud between 14.02 1.54 and 14.8 1.63 km altitude. The estimated fine ash total mass doubles if we consider spherical aggregates instead of irregular aggregates, due to a tighter packing of coating particles. The highest estimated fine ash mass for the upper and lower clouds is of kg (12:40 UTC) and of kg (13:50 UTC), respectively. Estimating the exact amount of erupted fine ash mass, mainly during hydromagmatic eruptions, is challenging and further works should investigate aggregates where the ice fraction is higher than the ash fraction.
A molecular mechanism mediating clozapine-enhanced sensorimotor gating
Authors: Mantas Ioannis , Flais Ivana , Branzell Niclas , Ionescu Tudor M. , Kim Eugene , Zhang Xiaoqun , Cash Diana , Hengerer Bastian , Svenningsson Per
Published: February 2025

The atypical antipsychotic clozapine targets multiple receptor systems beyond the dopaminergic pathway and influences prepulse inhibition (PPI), a critical translational measure of sensorimotor gating. Since PPI is modulated by atypical antipsychotics such as risperidone and clozapine, we hypothesized that p11—an adaptor protein associated with anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors and G-protein-coupled receptor function—might modulate these effects. In this study, we assessed the role of p11 in clozapine’s PPI-enhancing effect by testing wild-type and global p11 knockout (KO) mice in response to haloperidol, risperidone, and clozapine. We also performed structural and functional brain imaging. Contrary to our expectation that anxiety-like p11-KO mice would exhibit an augmented startle response and heightened sensitivity to clozapine, PPI tests showed that p11-KO mice were unresponsive to the PPI-enhancing effects of risperidone and clozapine. Imaging revealed distinct regional brain volume differences and reduced hippocampal connectivity in p11-KO mice, with significantly blunted clozapine-induced connectivity changes in the CA1 region. Our findings highlight a novel role for p11 in modulating clozapine’s effects on sensorimotor gating and hippocampal connectivity, offering new insight into its functional pathways.
Global burden of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in children and adolescents
Authors: Zhong Yanyan , Xie Huiru , Cai Fucheng , Liu Miao , Gan Hui , Tang Zhuo , Bai Yan
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) has become a major global public health issue, which has worsened over time owing to changes in disease-related trends. This study aimed to determine global trends in MDR-TB among children and adolescents for strategic health planning.

Methods

A secondary analysis was performed on MDR-TB burden among children and adolescents (<20 years) at the global, regional, and national levels based on sociodemographic index (SDI) quintiles from 1990 to 2019, using the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 database.

Results

In 2019, 67,710.82 (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 38,823.61 to 110,582.03) incidents of MDR-TB were reported among children and adolescents aged <20 years worldwide. The global incidence rate has increased from 1990 to 2019, with the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) at 4.15% (95% UI: 1.10–12.19%), particularly in low- and low-middle SDI regions. The top three highest incidence rates were observed in Southern sub-Saharan Africa, Eastern Europe, and South Asia. The mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rates (0.62 [95% UI: 0.28–1.14] and 55.19 [95% UI: 25.24–100.74] cases per 100,000, respectively) were higher among children aged <5 years than those in older age groups in 2019.

Conclusion

The global burden of MDR-TB among children and adolescents has increased from 1990 to 2019, particularly in regions with lower SDI. Extensive collaborative research and interventions are needed to mitigate this disease burden to secure the health of our future generation.

Impact

MDR-TB disease burden in children and adolescents using GBD 2019 database was analyzed.

In total, 67710.82 MDR-TB cases were identified in children and adolescents in 2019.

Global MDR-TB burden in children and adolescents has risen over the past 30 years.

MDR-TB disease burden is negatively correlated with the sociodemographic index.

MDR-TB disease burden varies across countries and age groups.
Biodistribution and toxicity evaluation of oncolytic adenovirus Adf35(OGN) in Syrian hamster and mouse
Authors: Yngve Erik , Eriksson Malin , Hedin Anders , Ali Arwa , Jin Chuan , Korsgren Olle , Yu Di
Published: February 2025

Oncolytic adenovirus has been widely evaluated as a cancer treatment agent with tolerable toxicity profile. We have recently developed a new oncolytic adenovirus Adf35(OGN) with two immunostimulatory transgenes alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase (GGTA1) from Sus scrofa and neutrophil-activating protein (NAP) from Helicobacter pylori. Adf35(OGN) can kill tumor cells and trigger a strong immune response against tumor antigens. Here, we report the toxicity and biodistribution of Adf35(OGN) in Syrian hamster and GGTA1-knockout mouse. The virus was delivered subcutaneously in naïve hamsters and intratumorally in GGTA1-knockout mouse in multiple doses at dosages of 1–5 × 1011 viral particles (VP)/kg. The virus did not replicate in any tissues, evidenced as low or no viral copies detected by qPCR. The virus was also found at low levels in biofluids (saliva, urine, and feces), indicating that spread to the environment is low with a low risk of secondary infections via shedding. The virus did not cause any biochemical, hematological, or histopathological alterations. In summary, Adf35(OGN) has a good safety profile in these animal models and these results support future clinical evaluation for Adf35(OGN).
Analysis of effector/memory regulatory T cells from arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy patients identified IL-32 as a novel player in ACM pathogenesis
Authors: Soussi Salwa , Maione Angela Serena , Lefèvre Lise , Pizzinat Nathalie , Iacovoni Jason , Gonzalez-Fuentes Ignacio , Cussac Daniel , Iengo Lara , Santin Yohan , Tundo Fabrizio , Tondo Claudio , Pompilio Giulio , Parini Angelo , Douin-Echinard Victorine , Sommariva Elena
Published: February 2025

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is an inherited cardiac disorder that causes sudden cardiac death and progressive heart failure. Besides fibro-fatty replacement and myocyte degenerative changes, inflammatory patchy infiltrates are found in myocardial histological analysis of ACM patients. Inflammatory cells could actively participate in ACM pathogenesis, contributing to the alteration of cardiac microenvironment homeostasis, thus triggering disease evolution. In order to characterize the immune-derived mediators involved in ACM pathogenesis, peripheral blood mononuclear cells from ACM patients were characterized and compared to healthy controls’ ones. Flow cytometry analysis revealed a lower frequency of CD4+ T helper type 1 cells, NK cells, and terminally differentiated CD8+ EMRA+ T cells in ACM patients compared to age-matched controls. In contrast, a higher proportion of effector/memory FOXP3+ CCR4+ CD45RO+ regulatory CD4+ T cells (Treg) were found in ACM patients. Single-cell RNA-seq performed on isolated memory Treg cells (mTreg) from ACM patients and healthy controls identified 6 clusters characterized by specific gene signatures related to tissue repair and immunosuppressive pathways. Notably, interleukin 32 (IL-32) was the most differentially expressed gene in ACM patients mTreg with respect to healthy controls. Treatment of human cardiac mesenchymal stromal cells with recombinant IL-32 in vitro promoted lipid droplet accumulation and collagen deposition, thus identifying IL-32 as a new potential player in the immune-mediated trigger of cardiac fibro-fatty replacement in ACM. Overall, we here provide the first complete characterization of circulating ACM immune cells, revealing an abundance of Treg. The high expression of IL-32 in ACM Treg may contribute to accelerated cardiac remodeling in ACM patients’ hearts.
E3 ligase TRIM8 suppresses lung cancer metastasis by targeting MYOF degradation through K48-linked polyubiquitination
Authors: Wei Chi-Hsuan , Weng Chia-Wei , Wu Chih-Ying , Chen Hsuan-Yu , Chang Ya-Hsuan , Chang Gee-Chen , Chen Jeremy J. W.
Published: February 2025

Ubiquitination is a posttranslational modification that regulates tumour progression-associated proteins through the ubiquitin‒proteasome system, making E3 ligases potential antitumour targets. Here, we report that TRIM8, a member of the TRIM family and an E3 ligase, can act as a tumour suppressor in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Both gain- and loss-of-function experiments revealed that TRIM8 inhibits the proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells. Experiments with a xenograft model showed that TRIM8 expression suppresses tumour metastasis in vivo. Moreover, low expression of TRIM8 was associated with poor overall survival in both the Taiwanese and GEO lung cancer cohorts. TRIM8 overexpression in lung cancer cells reduced MYOF expression, and restoring MYOF rescued cell migration in TRIM8-overexpressing cells. TRIM8 targeted MYOF for K48-linked ubiquitination, facilitating proteasome-mediated degradation and subsequently suppressing the extracellular secretion of MMPs. Our results provide new insights into the contribution of TRIM8 to lung cancer progression, suggesting that TRIM8 is a new biomarker and a novel therapeutic target for lung cancer.
Intraoperative frozen section examination for penile cancer surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Yunis Mohammad Z. , Pang Karl H. , Muneer Asif , Alnajjar Hussain M.
Published: February 2025

Penile cancer (PeCa) is rare but aggressive and life changing. Penile-preserving surgery (PPS) allows length preservation for sexual activity and normal voiding. Intraoperative frozen section examination (FSE) of resection margins helps to decide on how much penile tissue is excised. Oncological outcomes and diagnostic accuracy of FSE to date, however, are not well documented. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of FSE in the treatment of PeCa and its impact on oncological outcomes. A systematic review was conducted with reference to the PRISMA statement. Studies published from 2009 to 2024 were identified through a search conducted between 1975 and 2024. The search yielded 7 studies involving 574 patients. Intraoperative FSE had a high percentage of accuracy, with a mean accuracy of 95.4% and a range of 92.9–99.4%. The mean values of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values were 71.4%, 99.9%, 98.8%, and 96.5%, respectively. Functional outcomes with PPS were encouraging, especially in terms of sexual function. The average local recurrence rate was 7.9%. There is a paucity of data on PeCa FSE in the literature. However, it appears that FSE is accurate and can be helpful in guiding surgeons intraoperatively when performing PPS.
Dynamics of cooperation in concurrent games
Authors: Rossetti Charlotte S. L. , Hauser Oliver P. , Hilbe Christian
Published: February 2025

People frequently encounter situations where individually optimal decisions conflict with group interests. To navigate such social dilemmas, they often employ simple heuristics based on direct reciprocity: cooperate when others do and cease cooperation when partners defect. However, prior research typically assumes that individuals only interact in one game at a time. In reality, people engage in multiple games concurrently, and the outcome of one interaction can influence behavior in another. Here, we introduce a theoretical framework to study the resulting cross-over and spill-over effects. Participants repeatedly engage in two independent stage games, either with the same or different partners, adapting their strategies over time through an evolutionary learning process. Our findings indicate that individuals often link their behavior across games, particularly under cognitive constraints like imperfect recall. A behavioral experiment with 316 UK-based students suggests that concurrent games negatively affect cooperation, highlighting how strategic motives and spillovers impact reciprocity.