bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uniaxial tensile‐induced deformation of spherulite: combining experimental and simulation methods
Authors: Yuan Maoqing , Ren Linjuan , Zhao Na , Liu Yanping , Li Qian
Published: July 2024

A combination of experimental and simulation methods is adopted to study the relationship between micro‐stress and micro‐strain of a single spherulite upon uniaxial tensile deformation. To verify the simulation results and establish a suitable spherulite model, large‐sized isotactic polypropylene spherulite is first cultured with isothermal crystallization, whose structural deformation upon application of uniaxial tension is recorded using a polarizing optical microscope. A nanoindenter is used to measure the elastic modulus of the spherulite and amorphous region, preparing the property parameters for numerical simulation. Modeling and meshing of the single spherulite are conducted with the finite element software ABAQUS. The entire deformation of the spherulite is analyzed with fixed strain as the boundary condition, and the microscopic stress and strain distribution inside and outside of the spherulite is obtained. The higher micro‐stress region mainly locates at two poles in the equatorial direction, where might be the origin of craze. Generally, the simulation result is basically consistent with the experimental deformation process, which provides a new idea for the study of microscale structure and performance. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
18F‐FDG accumulation at the early onset of acute exacerbation of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia on 18F‐FDG PET/CT: A case report
Authors: Akaike Kimitaka , Saruwatari Koichi , Sakata Shinya , Oda Seitaro , Shiraishi Shinya , Iyama Shinji , Masunaga Aiko , Tomita Yusuke , Ichiyasu Hidenori , Sakagami Takuro
Published: July 2024

Acute exacerbation of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (AE‐IIPs) is a disease associated with a poor prognosis in patients with IIPs. However, the specific characteristics of fluorine‐18 2‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging for AE‐IIPs remain unclear. Herein, we present the case of a patient with lung cancer combined with IIPs who underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT at the early onset of AE‐IIPs. The scan, conducted 18 days post‐bronchoscopy for lung cancer evaluation, revealed AE‐IIPs before the onset of respiratory failure. New ground‐glass opacities appeared, accompanied by significant 18F‐FDG accumulation extending beyond these regions. To the best of our knowledge, this report represents the first assessment of 18F‐FDG PET/CT images at the early onset of AE‐IIPs before respiratory failure in humans. The observed features in this PET image could potentially contribute to our understanding of the pathophysiology of AE‐IIPs.
Engineering Tumor‐Specific Nanotheranostic Agent with MR Image‐Guided NIR‐II & ‐III Photodynamic Therapy to Combat Against Deeply Seated Orthotopic Glioblastoma
Authors: Nuthalapati Karthik , Vankayala Raviraj , Shanmugam Munusamy , Thangudu Suresh , Chiang Chi‐Shiun , Hwang Kuo Chu
Published: July 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive, incurable, and difficult‐to‐treat malignant brain tumor with very poor survival rates. The gold standard in treating GBMs includes neurosurgical resection of the tumor, followed by the chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, these strategies remain ineffective in treating patients with GBMs, as tumor recurrence always occur in most cases. Therefore, it remains a grand challenge to develop an effective strategy to combat orthotopic glioblastoma with simultaneous imaging capabilities to monitor the therapeutic outcomes. To tackle this challenge, this study demonstrates, for the first time, that a tumor‐specific europium hexaboride (EuB6)‐based nanomedicine surface‐modified with RGD‐K peptide to target αvβ3 integrin receptors overexpressed on the glioblastoma cells. Further, EuB6@RGD‐K NPs are able to exert theranostic capabilities to effectively diagnose and combat difficult‐to‐treat orthotopic glioblastoma tumors using NIR‐II 1064 nm and NIR‐III 1550 nm photodynamic therapy (NIR PDT) effects. In the in vivo experiments, the average half‐life of 55 d for mice treated with EuB6@RGD‐K NPs and exposed to NIR‐III 1550 nm light irradiation is far higher than that of EuB6@RGD‐K NPs exposed to NIR‐II 1064 nm light irradiation (25 d), PBS‐treated mice (20 d) and EuB6@RGD‐K NPs‐treated mice (no light irradiation, 18 d). To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first example for destructing murine brain tumors via multi‐functional tumor‐specific europium hexaboride‐based nanotheranostic agent to mediate MR imaging‐guided NIR‐II/‐III photodynamic therapy.
Effects of Typical Inclusions on the As‐Cast Microstructure and Recrystallization of Low‐Density Steel
Authors: Guo Shuai , Zhu Hangyu , Wang Lanqing , Li Xindi , Zhao Jixuan
Published: July 2024

Herein, the effect of nonmetallic inclusions (NMIs) on the microstructure and dynamic recrystallization (DRX) of Fe–23Mn–6Al–0.7C low‐density steel is studied. The specimens are separately added sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N) to change the characteristics of NMIs. As a result, the addition of S significantly increases the number of MnS inclusions and AlN–MnS complex inclusions in low‐density steel. The addition of N results in a significant increase in the size of NMIs. In the results, NMIs act as the heterogeneous nucleation sites for austenite and refine the as‐cast grains in low‐density steel. In addition, the treated specimens are subjected to a thermal compression simulation experiment. During the thermal compression process, discontinuous DRX is considered to be the main recrystallization method in the experimental low‐density steels. Meanwhile, the typical NMIs significantly accelerate the DRX within grains in low‐density steel through the mechanism of particle‐stimulated nucleation and continuous DRX.
Adaptive Optimal Resonance Fault Feature Enhancement for Wind Turbine Based on Frequency Search and Uncertainty Analysis
Authors: Dang Jian , Wang Yile , Yin Haolin , Li Ji , Jia Rong , Li Peihang
Published: July 2024

The wind turbine fault feature has strong uncertainty due to various factors such as wind speed and equipment parameters. Based on the analysis of the vibration characteristics of wind turbines with unknown prior conditions, this paper conducts research on the enhancement method of fault features. First, analyzing the change in fault features caused by the change in operating conditions to lay the foundation for subsequent research; Second, for the uncertainty of wind turbine fault feature frequency, searching for fault features by constructing the energy in each spectral interval, then use signal noise optimal resonance to transfer noise energy to low frequency fault features to achieve the purpose of adaptive optimal resonance enhancement of fault feature; Finally, validation of the proposed method by simulation experiments and fault signals of actual wind turbine rolling bearings. The case shows that the proposed algorithm can effectively realize the uncertain fault feature of wind turbines search and enhancement. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Addressing the Role of “Linguistic Knowledge” in Global Englishes Pedagogy
Authors: Suzuki Yuichi , Crowther Dustin
Published: July 2024

One key tenet of Global Englishes for Language Teaching (GELT) is that the native English speaker should no longer serve as the role model for second language (L2) English users. Such a view does not discount that some degree of linguistic knowledge is necessary for successful global communication. However, GELT scholarship has remained relatively silent on the process and product of L2 acquisition. In this paper, we propose integrating L2 acquisition theory into GELT pedagogical practices without relying on theoretical perspectives steeped in some form of native speakerism. At the heart of our discussion is the concept of linguistic knowledge–implicit (unconscious) and explicit (conscious)–emphasizing the role of explicit learning processes in GELT classrooms rather than adhering solely to the idealistic goal of implicit competence. Because L2 learners need to reflect on linguistic knowledge (repertoire) and strategies for effective global communication, we propose that their learning should aim to develop skill sets of using explicit and implicit knowledge dynamically and efficiently in varied communicative contexts. We argue that skill acquisition theory offers a useful framework for GELT, as it can account for the development of automatized explicit knowledge alongside implicit knowledge, aligning with GELT objectives of fostering multicompetent English users. We illustrate how this perspective can inform classroom activities such as shadowing and task repetition. These activities not only promote deliberate, explicit learning processes but also integrate seamlessly with awareness–raising activities commonly employed in GELT, enhancing learners' communication strategies and capacity for effective English use in global contexts.
A versatile functional interaction between electrically silent KV subunits and KV7 potassium channels
Authors: Renigunta Vijay , Xhaferri Nermina , Shaikh Imran Gousebasha , Schlegel Jonathan , Bisen Rajeshwari , Sanvido Ilaria , Kalpachidou Theodora , Kummer Kai , Oliver Dominik , Leitner Michael G. , Lindner Moritz
Published: July 2024

Voltage-gated K+ (KV) channels govern K+ ion flux across cell membranes in response to changes in membrane potential. They are formed by the assembly of four subunits, typically from the same family. Electrically silent KV channels (KVS), however, are unable to conduct currents on their own. It has been assumed that these KVS must obligatorily assemble with subunits from the KV2 family into heterotetrameric channels, thereby giving rise to currents distinct from those of homomeric KV2 channels. Herein, we show that KVS subunits indeed also modulate the activity, biophysical properties and surface expression of recombinant KV7 isoforms in a subunit-specific manner. Employing co-immunoprecipitation, and proximity labelling, we unveil the spatial coexistence of KVS and KV7 within a single protein complex. Electrophysiological experiments further indicate functional interaction and probably heterotetramer formation. Finally, single-cell transcriptomic analyses identify native cell types in which this KVS and KV7 interaction may occur. Our findings demonstrate that KV cross-family interaction is much more versatile than previously thought—possibly serving nature to shape potassium conductance to the needs of individual cell types.
Radiomics combined with clinical and MRI features may provide preoperative evaluation of suboptimal debulking surgery for serous ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Liu Li , Zhang Wenfei , Wang Yudong , Wu Jiangfen , Fan Qianrui , Chen Weidao , Zhou Linyi , Li Juncai , Li Yongmei
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To develop and validate a model for predicting suboptimal debulking surgery (SDS) of serous ovarian carcinoma (SOC) using radiomics method, clinical and MRI features.

Methods

228 patients eligible from institution A (randomly divided into the training and internal validation cohorts) and 45 patients from institution B (external validation cohort) were collected and retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent abdominal pelvic enhanced MRI scan, including T2-weighted imaging fat-suppressed fast spin-echo (T2FSE), T1-weighted dual-echo magnetic resonance imaging (T1DEI), diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), and T1 with contrast enhancement (T1CE). We extracted, selected and eliminated highly correlated radiomic features for each sequence. Then, Radiomic models were made by each single sequence, dual-sequence (T1CE + T2FSE), and all-sequence, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to screen the clinical and MRI independent predictors. The radiomic model with the highest area under the curve (AUC) was used to combine the independent predictors as a combined model.

Results

The optimal radiomic model was based on dual sequences (T2FSE + T1CE) among the five radiomic models (AUC = 0.720, P < 0.05). Serum carbohydrate antigen 125, the relationship between sigmoid colon/rectum and ovarian mass or mass implanted in Douglas’ pouch, diaphragm nodules, and peritoneum/mesentery nodules were considered independent predictors. The AUC of the radiomic–clinical–radiological model was higher than either the optimal radiomic model or the clinical–radiological model in the training cohort (AUC = 0.908 vs. 0.720/0.854).

Conclusions

The radiomic–clinical–radiological model has an overall algorithm reproducibility and may help create individualized treatment programs and improve the prognosis of patients with SOC.

Graphical abstract
Human Infant Fecal Microbiota Differentially Influences the Mucosal Immune Pathways Upon Influenza Infection in a Humanized Gnotobiotic Pig Model
Authors: Schrock Jennifer , Yan Ming , Dolatyabi Sara , Patil Veerupaxagouda , Yadagiri Ganesh , Renu Sankar , Ramesh Anikethana , Wood Ronna , Hanson Juliette , Yu Zhongtang , Renukaradhya Gourapura J.
Published: July 2024

In this study, we evaluated the impact of human gut microbiota on the immune pathways in the respiratory tract using a gnotobiotic (Gn) piglet model. We humanized piglets with rural and urban infant fecal microbiota (RIFM and UIFM, respectively) and then infected them with a H1N1 swine influenza virus. We analyzed the microbial diversity and structure of the intestinal and respiratory tracts of the piglets before and after the influenza virus infection and measured the viral load and immune responses. We found that the viral load in the upper respiratory tract of UIFM transplanted piglets was higher than their rural cohorts (RIFM), while virus-specific antibody responses were comparable. The relative cytokine gene expression in the tracheobronchial (respiratory tract) and mesenteric (gastrointestinal) lymph nodes, lungs, blood, and spleen of RIFM and UIFM piglets revealed a trend in reciprocal regulation of proinflammatory, innate, and adaptive immune-associated cytokines as well as the frequency of T-helper/memory cells, cytotoxic T cells, and myeloid immune cell subsets. We also observed different phylum-level shifts of the fecal microbiota in response to influenza virus infection between the two piglet groups, suggesting the potential impact of the gut microbiota on the immune responses to influenza virus infection and lung microbiota. In conclusion, Gn piglets humanized with diverse infant fecal microbiota had differential immune regulation, with UIFM favoring the activation of proinflammatory immune mediators following an influenza virus infection compared to their rural RIFM cohorts. Furthermore, Gn piglets can be a useful model in investigating the impact of diverse human microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract, probably also the respiratory tract, on respiratory health and testing specific probiotic- or prebiotic-based therapeutics.
The importance of variance and microsite conditions for growth and hydraulic responses following long-term rewetting in pedunculate oak wood
Authors: Resente Giulia , Di Fabio Alessandro , Scharnweber Tobias , Gillert Alexander , Crivellaro Alan , Anadon-Rosell Alba , Trouillier Mario , Kreyling Juergen , Wilmking Martin
Published: July 2024

Key message

Early rewetting influenced growth variability and hydraulic uniformity in Pedunculate oak wood on disturbed peatland. Long-term study highlighted vessel widening's importance in adapting to water availability changes.

Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) is a widely recognized flood-tolerant tree that thrives on fertile and moist soil conditions, such as on or close to peatland ecosystems. In the frame of climate change counteracting policies, rewetting peatland ecosystems is gaining increasing interest, while the ecological consequences are not always clear. Whereas the effect of flooding on wood anatomical traits of pedunculate oak is widely documented, little is known about the effect of permanent rewetting. In this study, we investigated the wood anatomical responses of 12 pedunculate oak trees located on a formerly drained peatland in NE Germany, that experienced flooding and a consequent rewetting. Wood anatomical traits were analyzed via CARROT, a tool that employs the accuracy and efficiency of artificial intelligence to identify tree rings and vessels. Growth anatomical traits (e.g., tree ring width) showed a sudden increase after the rewetting started in 1995, while hydraulic traits (Dh and Ks) displayed a decreasing trend only after the rewetting process was fostered by the opening of an artificial canal in 2004. Variance analysis highlighted subtle changes in the trait’s distribution over time: high soil water content triggered variability in the growth anatomical traits and, simultaneously, homogeneity in the hydraulic traits. Results suggest the relevance of the “vessel widening” mechanisms to develop coping strategies in response to the later stage of the rewetting, and pose relevant insights concerning the importance of specific site conditions for the implementation of rewetting policies in peatlands with presence of pedunculate oak.
Resilience in supply chain risk management in disruptive world: rerouting research directions during and after pandemic
Authors: Madzík Peter , Falát Lukáš , Copuš Lukáš , Čarnogurský Karol
Published: July 2024

The pandemic and a series of subsequent disruptive events fully exposed the vulnerability of supply chains. Research in the field of resilience in supply chain risk management has recorded significant interest across a wide range of academic disciplines. Therefore, there is a need to synthesize, categorize and explain existing and newly emerging research directions, which may represent relevant platforms for developing supply chain concepts in the future. This study addresses this need by providing a bibliometric review of published papers on resilience in supply chain risk management. By analyzing more than 2500 published papers through bibliometric and machine-learning-based methods, we identified ten topics related to risk and resilience of supply chains: Pandemic impacts of food supply chain; Practices for capability and performance; Supplier-related modeling and optimization; System security and critical infrastructure; Production changes; IT in manufacturing process; Sustainability in global economy; Management and business approach; Modeling and design of complex networks; Operational strategies for risk mitigation. By analyzing articles published since 2020, we also identified a change in the direction of research dedicated to supply chain risk and resilience; we identified three other topics that were not recognized as distinct topics prior to 2020—Operational management; strategy; Sustainable production. The results of this study help in understanding the change in the direction of research in the area of risk and resilience of supply chains and thus provide up-to-date information for further research in this dynamically developing area.
Emotion Regulation Flexibility in Adolescents: A Systematic Review from Conceptualization to Methodology
Authors: Haag Ann-Christin , Bagrodia Rohini , Bonanno George A.
Published: July 2024

Considerable attention has been devoted to the concept of flexible emotion regulation, which de-emphasizes the importance of any specific regulatory strategy in favor of the flexible deployment of strategies in response to specific situational challenges. The bulk of research in this area has been conducted on adult samples. Research on emotion regulation flexibility (ERF) in youth has been documented in only a limited number of studies and using various definitions. This systematic review aims to gather and summarize different conceptualizations and methodological approaches of adolescent ERF. We incorporate these findings into a general framework to understand ERF and its role in adolescents’ emotional, behavioral and social functioning. Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, 11 studies were included in the review. While ERF has been defined in various and inconsistent ways, the included studies utilized conceptualizations from two overarching domains: the regulation of expressed emotion and the repertoire of emotion regulation strategies. Promising approaches and future directions will be highlighted.
A Systematic Literature Review of Strategies Implemented in Extended Education Settings to Address Children’s Mental Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Murray Sarah , March Sonja , Pillay Yosheen , Senyard Emma-Leigh
Published: July 2024

Mental health and wellbeing problems in middle childhood are increasing worldwide which needs more support than just clinical services. Early intervention has been explored in other settings, but not in extended education care settings such as outside school hours care (OSHC). A systematic literature review was undertaken to determine what interventions have been tested in extended education settings to address or promote emotional, behavioural, or social wellbeing in children, and to assess how effective they have been. A PRISMA guided search found seven peer reviewed articles from an initial pool of 458. Data from the articles were extracted and the mixed method appraisal tool (MMAT) was applied to assess methodological quality of the studies design, data collection, and analyses. The final selections were methodologically heterogeneous with an average MMAT quality rating of 71%. All but one of the interventions were delivered to children in small group settings and were a mix of activities. Studies that trained educators to deliver the interventions were limited and no data were collected for them. The two interventions that trained educators to deliver content to children were seen as promising. This review showed an overall paucity of research examining interventions delivered in extended education settings to improve children’s wellbeing. Given variations in extended education services and the absence of formal qualifications required for educators, further research is needed to understand what interventions may be effective and what role educators could play in such interventions or in supporting children’s wellbeing in extended education.

This review protocol was prospectively registered with PROSPERO. Registration ID: CRD42023485541 on 03/12/2023.
Role of Bi/Te co-dopants on the thermoelectric properties of SnSe polycrystals: an experimental and theoretical investigation
Authors: Shankar Manasa R. , Prabhu A. N. , Ashok Anuradha M. , Davis Nithya , Srinivasan Bhuvanesh , Mishra Vikash
Published: July 2024

A sustainable solution to the energy crisis may be found in thermoelectric materials and generators, capable of transforming thermal energy into electrical energy or vice versa. SnSe is one of the emerging thermoelectric materials with distinctive properties. The main advantages of this compound are earth-abundant, inexpensive, non-toxic and it is also known for its high thermoelectric performance. Here we prepared Bi/Te co-doped SnSe polycrystals; whereas, Bi and Te are added with different compositions such as (x = 0.0,0.02,0.04,0.06 and y = 0.03) in (Sn1-xBixSe1-YTeY) matrix by using the solid-state reaction method. XRD data confirms the samples belong to the orthorhombic crystal system with the Pnma space group. DFT calculations were used to see structural stability and electronic properties for pure and doped SnSe samples. Temperature-dependent semiconducting behavior of the samples has been demonstrated by electrical resistivity. The Seebeck coefficient, correlated with carrier concentration and mobility, validates the p-type behavior for the pristine samples and the n-type behavior for co-doped samples. The dominant behavior of phonon scattering has been demonstrated by thermal conductivity analysis. After co-doping there is decrement in total thermal conductivity was observed which 1.3 times lower than SnSe. A theoretical calculation was used to validate experimental results to estimate electrical properties, Seebeck coefficient, specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and power factor using Quantum espresso code with Boltzmann transport Equation. 4% Bi-doped sample displayed a significant increment in electrical conductivity and an enhanced Seebeck coefficient, which led to the power factor enhancement of approximately 2.0 times in contrast to the pristine sample and enhanced ZT of about 0.055 which is 3.43 times higher than the pristine SnSe.

Graphical abstract
A Globally Convergent Inertial First-Order Optimization Method for Multidimensional Scaling
Authors: Ram Noga , Sabach Shoham
Published: July 2024

Multidimensional scaling (MDS) is a popular tool for dimensionality reduction and data visualization. Given distances between data points and a target low-dimension, the MDS problem seeks to find a configuration of these points in the low-dimensional space, such that the inter-point distances are preserved as well as possible. We focus on the most common approach to formulate the MDS problem, known as stress minimization, which results in a challenging non-smooth and non-convex optimization problem. In this paper, we propose an inertial version of the well-known SMACOF Algorithm, which we call AI-SMACOF. This algorithm is proven to be globally convergent, and to the best of our knowledge this is the first result of this kind for algorithms aiming at solving the stress MDS minimization. In addition to the theoretical findings, numerical experiments provide another evidence for the superiority of the proposed algorithm.
Infertility as Trauma: Understanding the Lived Experience of Involuntary Childlessness
Authors: Archetti Cristina
Published: July 2024

Infertility, to those who are affected by it, is much more than whether one manages (or not) to have a child: it can be a traumatizing experience. Based on a clinical case study that involved one-to-one psychotherapy sessions and semi-structured interviews with six involuntarily childless women living in Norway, this article develops the argument that there is a need to treat infertility as trauma, both conceptually and from the perspective of therapeutic practice. The analysis contributes to our understanding of trauma as a disruptive event that erodes a person’s moral agency. It does so by outlining conceptual and therapeutic tools that illuminate what happens in the psyche as a result of the trauma: they help explaining why the moral agency of different individuals is damaged to different extents, and how therapy can repair it. In relation to the issue of involuntary childlessness, the analysis shows where infertility fits within one’s traumabiography—a map of the way adverse experiences over the life-course have affected one’s psyche and behavior—both as traumatizing in itself and connected to previous traumas. This understanding enables more effective therapeutic support and better care for many individuals whose long-term suffering would otherwise remain unacknowledged and untreated.
Edge highlighting with depth-dependent opacity gradation of laser-scanned point clouds improves the accuracy of perceived depth in transparent multi-view 3D visualizations
Authors: Aoi Daimon , Hasegawa Kyoko , Li Liang , Sakano Yuichi , Sakamoto Naohisa , Takatori Satoshi , Tanaka Satoshi
Published: July 2024

There is an activity called "digital archiving" in which cultural property is digitized for preservation and utilization, and transparent visualization using 3D point clouds is a valuable tool for understanding the complex internal structure of cultural property. However, when 3D data is transparently visualized, depth information may become unclear. In this paper, we investigated whether the depth perception of transparently visualized 3D objects can be improved by highlighting the 3D edges of the structures and adjusting the opacity of the edges according to the depth. In order to verify the effect of the depth-dependent 3D edges, we conducted a psychophysical experiment in which subjects were asked to report the magnitude of perceived depth for 3D structures of two cultural properties using a multi-view 3D display. The perceived depth was smaller than the simulated depth under all conditions. However, the opacity adjustment in edge highlighting mitigated the depth underestimation from an average of 69.4 to 35.5%. These results indicate that edge highlighting with opacity adjusted according to depth improves the accuracy of the perceived depth of 3D structures of cultural property visualized transparently.

Graphical abstract
Environmental justice teaching in an undergraduate context: examining the intersection of community-engaged, inclusive, and anti-racist pedagogy
Authors: Rabe Christopher
Published: July 2024

Since the early 1980s, the environmental justice (EJ) movement was critical in drawing much needed attention on how Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), and low-income groups have experienced a disproportionate burden of environmental harms. This movement eventually formed the field of environmental justice, a multidisciplinary area of study that attempts to identify environmental injustices and provide theory and practice for their resolution. Despite the expansion of the EJ field and recent public attention, research shows that both EJ content knowledge and BIPOC students are isolated and excluded from Interdisciplinary, Environmental, and Sustainability (IES) programs within higher education. In addition, these studies have shown a relationship between EJ content and community-engaged practices with the inclusion of BIPOC students. This study sought to examine how and why EJ teaching and community-engaged pedagogies may be associated with inclusive or anti-racist practices by examining four faculty members teaching undergraduate EJ courses at four institutions. Using a multi-case study design, primary findings showed that faculty members held activist course objectives, which led to distinct community-engaged practices, such as the invitation of diverse guest educators, inclusion of readings from diverse authors, field experiences with EJ communities, and the integration of alternative ways of knowing that resist Eurocentric biases. The discussion and implications explore how these practices intersect with inclusive and anti-racist pedagogies, and provide recommendations for their implementation within the context of Environmental Studies and Sciences (ESS) in higher education.
Campus sustainability office representations of the DEIJ-sustainability nexus
Authors: Jurge Tiffany , Urbaniak Eric , Liesch Matthew
Published: July 2024

The number of campus sustainability offices in the USA has grown over the past two decades. These offices evolve from myriad origins such as an outgrowth of a facilities department, academic administration, or student activism. Some campus sustainability office missions are closely aligned with environmental sustainability, whereas others include the intersection of environmental with human factors such as cultural and economic sustainability. As potential breadth and scope evolves, each college’s sustainability office has new horizons to choose among. These decisions are shaped by factors such as institutional strategic goals, funding, opportunities, and management choices. One of the possible directions for campus sustainability offices is to highlight how the office contributes to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) efforts on campus. These observations are placed into literature on the changing roles of campus sustainability offices, the evolving roles of DEIJ efforts on college campuses, and of website-based representations for audiences internal and external to colleges. In so doing, the article categorizes ways in which sustainability offices present themselves as advancing DEIJ on campuses. This is done by comparing website content from a cross-section of US-based university sustainability offices. Results allow campus decision-makers to see a range of options for advancing DEIJ through sustainability. These results are also of use to faculty in sustainability-related programs to think through course design and community engagement activities. Scholars of higher education management will also be able to see the broader landscape of how DEIJ and sustainability offices align.
Heterologous expression of distinct insecticidal genes in potato cultivars encodes resistance against potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Salim Muhammad , Bakhsh Allah , Naqqash Muhammad Nadir , Gökçe Ayhan
Published: July 2024

The potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), is a notorious insect pest of potato incurring substantial yield losses in the field as well as in storage. Chemical control is difficult to exercise due to the latent feeding of the caterpillars and their ability to develop resistance against insecticides. One of the essential components of efficient insect-resistant management is using two or more different insecticidal genes in transgenic crops to effectively avoid and delay the resistance development in insect pests. Two constructs, namely DS-1 (cry3A + SN-19 genes) and DS-2 (OCII + SN-19 genes) in pCAMBIA1301 binary vector, were developed and were transformed in potato cultivars (Agria and Lady Olympia) via Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The molecular analysis confirmed gene integration and expression of the introduced genes in transgenic plants. The insecticidal effects of incorporated genes in transgenic plants were assessed against 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th instar potato tuber moth (PTM) larvae. The transgenic plants endured significantly high mortalities (100%) of larval stages of PTM within 72 h. Our results show that these transgenic potato plants have the potential to control populations of PTM and are also useful tools in managing PTM that would ultimately reduce the dependency on conventional chemical pesticides with potentially less or minimal hazards. These lines can also serve as an excellent source of germplasm for potato breeding program.
Clash of Drought Narratives: A Study on the Role of Small Reservoirs in the Emergence of Drought Impacts
Authors: Ribeiro Neto Germano G. , Melsen Lieke A. , Costa Alexandre C. , Walker David W. , Cavalcante Louise , Kchouk Sarra , Brêda João Paulo , Martins Eduardo S. P. R. , van Oel Pieter R.
Published: July 2024

In regions characterized by a high concentration of small reservoirs, there is often public debate about the effectiveness of these structures in locally adapting to and mitigating drought impacts, bearing in mind their potential to modify or induce drought events in downstream areas. In this study, we investigated the influence of a Dense Network of Small Reservoirs (DNR) on the emergence and intensification of drought impacts at catchment scale, as well as their local social benefits. This analysis was based on the Socio‐Hydrological‐Agricultural‐Reservoir (SHARE) model, specially developed for this purpose, with a medium‐sized catchment in the semi‐arid region of Brazil as a case study. We identified that, while a DNR can prolong the effects of a hydrological drought on storage in a large strategic reservoir at the catchment outlet by obstructing surface‐runoff connectivity, it plays a crucial role in mitigating drought impacts at a local level. Specifically, the presence of small reservoirs has the potential to boost local agricultural production by up to 5 times compared to scenarios without these structures. In addition, our simulation results suggest there is a notable reduction in the need for emergency water distribution by water trucks in the presence of a DNR. This study highlights the need for a balanced approach to implementing public policies, weighing the local benefits of small reservoirs against the possible downstream impacts on large reservoirs.
Experimental Insights Into the Petrogenesis of Plume‐Related Magmas: Tholeiite‐Harzburgite Interaction at 2–3 GPa and 1,400–1,500°C
Authors: Hou Yong‐Sheng , Li Hong‐Yan , Wang Yu , Zhang Yan‐Fei , Li Yuan , Xu Yi‐Gang
Published: July 2024

How eclogite/pyroxenite‐derived melts evolve through the refractory lithosphere above a plume remains poorly understood. Here we conducted layered experiments of reaction between tholeiitic melts and harzburgite at 2–3 GPa, 1,400–1,500°C, with a run duration ranging from 2 to 24 hr. The resulting residual melts exhibit lower SiO2, TiO2, Al2O3, FeO, CaO, and total alkali contents, higher Ni, MgO, and Mg#, and almost constant CaO/Al2O3 compared to the initial tholeiitic melts. The compositions of the residual melts are influenced by factors such as the melt/harzburgite mass ratio, temperature, and run duration. Decreasing the melt/rock ratio or increasing temperature and run duration leads to a greater extent of assimilation. Under disequilibrated conditions (2 hr), the residual melts have higher SiO2, FeO, and MgO, and lower CaO, Al2O3, and total alkali contents compared to those under equilibrated conditions. The results suggest that interface reactions involving olivine dissolution and orthopyroxene precipitation, and chemical diffusion occur simultaneously during the interaction process. The compositions of the residual melts are largely controlled by interface reactions within 2 hr, followed by dominant chemical diffusion between the melts and refertilized harzburgite from 2 to 24 hr. Based on the experimental results, we propose a two‐stage model for the origin of Hawaiian shield stage parental magmas. Eclogite/pyroxenite‐derived tholeiitic melts first react with harzburgite, with varying melt/rock ratios, to produce residual melts in the deep lithosphere. These residual melts subsequently mix with plume peridotite‐derived melts at shallow depths, contributing to the geochemical diversity observed in Hawaiian shield stage lavas.
Water Geochemistry and Stable Isotope Changes Record Groundwater Mixing After a Regional Earthquake in Northeast India
Authors: Kumar Sourav , Manga Michael , Nair Archana M. , Dixit Abhishek , Mahanta Chandan
Published: July 2024

Recorded earthquake‐induced changes in hydrogeological systems date back over 2,000 years. As a part of our ongoing hydrogeochemical monitoring effort to study such changes, we collected 406 groundwater samples twice a week between February 2021 and July 2023 from two bore wells in the Kopili fault zone of Northeast India. We analyzed stable isotope ratios (δ2H, δ18O) and dissolved element concentrations to obtain a 2.5‐year hydrogeochemical time series and responses to multiple regional earthquakes (Mw ≥ 3) within the monitored period. We find significant but transient anomalies in both the chemical and isotopic composition of groundwater at one of the observation wells (OW1) after the 2021 Assam Mw 6.4 earthquake, followed by prolonged alterations in the hydrochemistry at both wells. We do not identify any precursory changes. Using multivariate statistical techniques and analyzing compositional changes before and after the mainshock, we infer that the hydrochemical anomalies at OW1, representing an immediate response to the mainshock, can be attributed to the potential breach of a hydrological barrier. This, in turn, allowed the infiltration of new water into the OW1 aquifer, potentially sourced from the nearby Brahmaputra River. Subsequently, during the post‐anomaly period, the earthquake‐induced fracturing and the associated changes in permeability sustained a prolonged period of mixing between surface water and groundwater, resulting in newly formed hydrochemistry at both wells. Our findings highlight the dynamic nature of aquifer properties during earthquakes. Long‐term continuous evaluation of such changes may provide new insights into feedback between tectonics and fluid flow in the crust.
Comparisons of Greenhouse Gas Observation Satellite Performances Over Seoul Using a Portable Ground‐Based Spectrometer
Authors: Park Hayoung , Jeong Sujong , Sha Mahesh Kumar , Lee Jonghyuk , Frey Matthias Max
Published: July 2024

Satellites provide global coverage for monitoring atmospheric greenhouse gases, crucial for understanding global climate dynamics. However, their temporal and spatial resolutions fall short in detecting urban‐scale variations. To enhance satellite reliability over urban areas, this study presents the first comprehensive analysis of long‐term observations of column‐averaged dry air mole fractions of CO2, CH4, and CO (XCO2, XCH4, XCO) using two ground‐based fourier transform infrared spectrometers, EM27/SUNs, in a megacity. With over 2 years of observations, our study shows that EM27/SUN measurements can effectively capture the daily and seasonal variability of XCO2, XCH4, and XCO over Seoul, a megacity with complex topography and various emission sources. In addition, we use the advantage of having multiple greenhouse gas satellites targeting Seoul to compare with the EM27/SUNs. Our study highlights the importance of EM27/SUN observations in Seoul to identify the need for improvements in satellites to monitor greenhouse gas behaviors and emissions in urban areas.
How P‐Wave Scattering Throughout the Entire Mantle Mimics the High‐Frequency Pdiff and Its Coda
Authors: Zhang Tuo , Sens‐Schönfelder Christoph , Bianchi Marcelo , Bataille Klaus
Published: July 2024

We document the arrival of seismic energy in the core shadow zone up to large distances beyond 150° more than 100 s prior to the core phases. Numerical simulations of the energy transport in an established heterogeneity model show that scattering throughout the entire mantle explains these observations. Diffraction at the core‐mantle boundary is unlikely in our 1–2 Hz frequency band and is not required indicating misleading terminology with reference to Pdiff for the scattered P∗P‐energy. Records of the largest deep earthquakes at low‐noise stations are key to the observation of the faint precursory signal which changes appearance with increasing distance from a coda‐like decay over a constant amplitude level around 130° to an emergent wave train. According to our simulations, different depth layers in the mantle dominate different time‐distance windows of the scattered wave train, providing the opportunity to improve the depth resolution of mantle heterogeneity models.
Characterization of obesity-related diseases and inflammation using single cell immunophenotyping in two different diet-induced obesity models
Authors: Ruppert Zsófia , Neuperger Patrícia , Rákóczi Bettina , Gémes Nikolett , Dukay Brigitta , Hajdu Petra , Péter Mária , Balogh Gábor , Tiszlavicz László , Vígh László , Török Zsolt , Puskás László G. , Szebeni Gábor J. , Tóth Melinda E.
Published: July 2024

Background

Obesity is a growing problem worldwide and a major risk factor for many chronic diseases. The accumulation of adipose tissue leads to the release of significant amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines, resulting in a low-grade systemic inflammation. However, the mechanisms behind the development of obesity-related diseases are not fully understood. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the pathological changes and inflammatory processes at systemic level and in individual organs in two different diet-induced mouse obesity models.

Methods

Male C57BL6/J mice were fed by high-fat diet (HFD), high-fat/high-fructose diet (HFD + FR) or normal chow for 21 weeks starting at 3 months of age (n = 15 animals/group). Insulin resistance was tested by oral glucose tolerance test. Pathological changes were investigated on hematoxylin–eosin-stained liver and brown adipose tissue sections. The gene expression levels of adipokines and cytokines were analyzed by qPCR in adipose tissues, whereas serum protein concentrations were determined by multiplex immunoassays. Immunophenotyping of isolated blood, bone marrow and spleen cells was performed by single-cell mass cytometry.

Results

Weight gain, glucose intolerance and hepatic steatosis were more severe in the HFD + FR group than in the control and HFD groups. This was accompanied by a higher level of systemic inflammation, as indicated by increased expression of pro-inflammatory genes in visceral white adipose tissue and by a higher serum TNFα level. In addition, immunophenotyping revealed the increase of the surface expressions of CD44 and CD69 on various cell types, such as CD8+ and CD4 + T-cells, B-cells and macrophages, in animals with obesity.

Conclusions

The combination of HFD with fructose supplementation promotes more properly the symptoms of metabolic syndrome. Therefore, the combined high-fat/high-fructose nutrition can be a more suitable model of the Western diet. However, despite these differences, both models showed immunophenotypic changes that may be associated with increased risk of obesity-related cancer.
Imaging-based body fat distribution and diabetic retinopathy in general US population with diabetes: an NHANES analysis (2003–2006 and 2011–2018)
Authors: Li Chenxin , Zhang Yili , Wang Yujie , Gu Chufeng , Li Bo , Ma Mingming , Xu Xiaoyin , Chen Yongdong , Zheng Zhi
Published: July 2024

Background

Limited studies have investigated the correlation between fat distribution and the risk of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in the general population with diabetes. The relationship between obesity and DR remains inconclusive, possibly due to using simple anthropometric measures to define obesity. This study investigates the relationships between the android-to-gynoid fat ratio (A/G ratio, measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and DR within the US population with diabetes.

Methods

The study used a population-based, cross-sectional approach based on the 2003–2006 and 2011–2018 data of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed on participants with diabetes to evaluate the contribution of body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and A/G ratio to the prevalence of DR.

Results

The prevalence of DR was 22.2, 21.2, and 17.6% among participants with A/G ratios <1.0, 1.0–1.2, and ≥1.2, respectively. After adjusting sex, age, ethnicity, diabetes duration, hemoglobin A1c level, blood pressure level, and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, a higher A/G ratio (≥1.2) was independently associated with decreased odds of DR (odds ratio [OR], 0.565; 95% CI: 0.372–0.858) compared with the A/G ratio of 1.0–1.2. Associations between a higher A/G ratio and DR remained statistically significant after adjusting for BMI (OR, 0.567; 95% CI: 0.373–0.861) and WHtR (OR, 0.586; 95% CI: 0.379–0.907). Moreover, these associations remained statistically significant in analyses using the ethnic-specific tertiles for the A/G ratio. In sex-stratified models, these correlations remained in males. There was a significant inverse association between the A/G ratio and diabetes duration in males, which persisted after multivariable adjustments (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

A novel finding indicates that a higher A/G ratio is associated with a reduced likelihood of DR in males with diabetes. The results from NHANES underscore the importance of considering imaging-based fat distribution as a critical indicator in clinical practice.