bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Mechanical Degradation in Polycrystalline NMC Particle on the Electrochemical Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Nagda Vinit , Ekström Henrik , Kulachenko Artem
Published: June 2024

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely chosen for energy storage owing to their high coulombic efficiency and energy density. Within the positive electrode materials of LIBs, the structural integrity of secondary particles, composed of randomly oriented single-crystal primary particles, is crucial for sustained performance. These particles can fracture as a result of both mechanical stress and chemical interactions within the solid. Modelling LIBs is a complex task involving electro-chemo-mechanical phenomena and their interactions on different length scales. This study proposes a numerical modeling framework to investigate the active particle degradation and its impact on electrochemical performance. The model integrates mechanical and electrochemical processes, tracking crack evolution and mechanical failure through phase field damage. The coupled time-dependent non-linear partial differential equations are solved in a finite element framework using COMSOL Multiphysics. The model offers numerical insights into intergranular and transgranular fracture within secondary particles. The electrolyte infiltration into cracks reduces the electrochemical overpotential due to the increase in electrochemically active surface area, positively affecting performance. However, prolonged cycling with particle cracking poses severe threat to the battery performance and capacity. This comprehensive numerical modeling approach provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay of mechanical and electrochemical factors governing LIB performance and degradation.
Dendrite/Volume Expansion-Free Lithium Deposition Inside the Enclosed Nanoscale Space of Electrochemically Modified Graphite
Authors: Ying Danfeng , Zhou Xufeng , Chi Tengsheng , Liu Meichen , Li Yimei , Wang Wei , Liu Zhaoping
Published: June 2024

Though over-lithiation of graphite can increase the initial specific capacity of the anodes, the cycling stability is unsatisfactory as metallic lithium depositing on the surface of graphite has poor reversibility. In this work, we utilize electrochemical co-intercalation of Li+ and diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (DEGDME) to prepare [Li-DEGDME]+-graphite co-intercalation compounds ([Li-DEGDME]-Gr) from pristine graphite. The expanded d-spacing and abundant cross-layer voids in the interlayer structure of [Li-DEGDME]-Gr owing to the co-intercalation of [Li-DEGDME]+ complex ions and parasitic chemical reactions between solvent molecules and graphene layers promotes the migration of bare Li+ and provides sufficient interior space for extra lithium-storage. As a result, a much higher lithium-storage capacity of 810 mAh g−1 can be successfully achieved. The extra lithium-storage is proved to originate from the deposition of lithium metal inside the enclosed nanoscale space of the as modified graphite, which inhibits the formation of lithium dendrites, isolates lithium metal from electrolytes and avoids volumetric expansion, enabling the [Li-DEGDME]-Gr electrodes to exhibit better cycling stability with high specific capacity. This work proposes a new strategy to enhance the reversibility of lithium metal plating/stripping by accommodating lithium deposition inside modified carbon materials, thus effectively increasing the reversible capacity of graphite-based anode materials.
An Investigation of Li-Ion Cell Degradation Caused by Simulated Autoclave Cycles
Authors: Taskovic T. , Clarke Alison , Harlow Jessie , Martin Maher Sasha , Tuul Kenneth , Eastwood Ethan , Johnson Michel , Dahn J. R.
Published: June 2024

Li[Ni0.6Mn0.4Co0.0]O2/graphite (NMC640, balanced for 4.1 V cut-off) and Li[Ni0.83Mn0.06Co0.11]O2/graphite (Ni83, balanced for 4.06 V cut-off) pouch cells were tested using lab-simulated autoclave conditions. After every cycle, the cells at either 3.4, 3.7, or 3.9 V were placed in a 120°C oven for 40 min to undergo an “autoclave” run, then continued for another cycle. Electrolyte blends using lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) salt were used to improve the cycle-life of autoclaved cells. The lab autoclave protocol was also performed on LiFePO4/graphite (LFP) and NMC commercial cylindrical cells, which were advertised for use in or found in autoclaved medical devices. LFP cells performed poorly in the simulated autoclave tests, while commercial high-temperature-tolerant NMC cylindrical cells and the pouch cells performed similarly. In continuous testing at 85°C, the pouch cells had better capacity retention than both cylindrical cell types. However, the pouch cells suffered from electrolyte permeation through the polymer seals. The pouch cell chemistries incorporated in cylindrical cell format would probably give superior performance to the commercial cells in the autoclave tests. Cell lifetimes were improved when cells were placed into the 120°C oven at a lower voltage suggesting that hospitals should charge Li-ion cells after the autoclaving process instead of standard practice of before.
A Balancing Act: Experimental Insights into the Volume Fraction of Conductive Additive in Lithium-Ion Battery Electrodes
Authors: Lauro Samantha N. , Broekhuis Benjamin G. , Papa Philippe E. , Rastogi Aashi , Burrow James N. , Ellison Christopher J. , Mullins C. Buddie
Published: June 2024

Lithium-ion battery electrodes are traditionally comprised of a cathode or anode material, a carbon conductive additive, and a polymeric binder. The conductive additive and binder are traditionally considered electrochemically inactive; however, the organization of the carbon-binder matrix in 3D space significantly alters electrode physical properties such as electrical conductivity and porosity, resulting in changes to electrochemical performance. While many experimental studies have altered the mass fraction and type of conductive additive, this study systematically studies the volume fraction of electrode components. Electrodes composed of lithium titanate (LTO) active material and SuperP conductive additive across six different electrode compositions from 20–70 vol% LTO and three different electrode film thicknesses of approximately 70, 125, and 225 μm were evaluated. Electrode structures were observed via scanning electron microscopy and electronic conductivities were measured with 4-point probe analysis. Notably, electrochemical performance described as different figures of merit are maximized for different electrode compositions. For example, while thin electrodes with maximal volume fractions of LTO achieve superior volumetric energy density, power density is maximized for thicker electrodes with an optimal volume fraction of conductive additive. This study demonstrates the importance of balancing overpotential arising from ohmic drop and concentration polarization.
The Dependence on Temperature of the Mn4+ Emission Intensity and Lifetime in Na2SiF6
Authors: Beers W. W. , Brik M. G. , Ma C.-G. , Cohen W. E. , Srivastava A. M.
Published: June 2024

We have measured the dependence of the Mn4+ lifetime and intensity on temperature of commercial Na2SiF6:Mn4+ phosphor. The data are fitted to existing physical models to extract the activation energy for thermal quenching. The parameters of our fitting are compared with those reported for laboratory synthesized Na2SiF6:Mn4+ and commercial K2SiF6:Mn4+ phosphors that is sold under the trade name, TriGain®. This comparative analysis sheds light on the mechanism of thermal quenching of the Mn4+ ion luminescence in M2SiF6 (M = K, Na) compounds. We show that the activation energy and the onset temperature of thermal quenching for the 2E→4T2→4A2 crossover process is correlated with the energy of the 4T2 level and argue that this is a robust electronic structure-property relationship in fluoride hosts with low defect density. The study provides, therefore, an understanding of the factors responsible for non-radiative relaxation processes, which is fundamental to the understanding of phosphor quantum efficiency and performance.
Exploring the Potential of Ribes nigrum L., Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott, and Sambucus nigra L. Fruit Polyphenol‐Rich Composition and Metformin Synergy in Type 2 Diabetes Management
Authors: Zima Katarzyna , Khaidakov Barbara , Banaszkiewicz Laura , Lemke Krzysztof , Kowalczyk Paulina Karolina
Published: June 2024

Type 2 diabetes, characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose homeostasis, is commonly managed through lifestyle interventions and medications such as metformin. Although metformin is generally well‐tolerated, it may cause gastrointestinal adverse effects and, in rare cases, precipitate lactic acidosis, necessitating cautious use in individuals with renal dysfunction. Additionally, concerns regarding its impact on hepatic function have led to its discontinuation in cirrhotic patients. This study explores the potential synergistic benefits of a polyphenol‐rich blend containing black currant, chokeberry, and black elderberry extracts alongside metformin in managing type 2 diabetes. In vitro results highlighted distinct effects of AMPK pathway modulation, showcasing reductions in cholesterol and triglyceride levels alongside a notable enhancement in glucose uptake. The blend, when combined with metformin, significantly reduced insulin levels and fasting glucose concentrations in an in vivo model. Furthermore, hepatic analyses unveiled a modulation in cellular pathways, suggesting a potential influence on lipid metabolism, attenuation of inflammatory pathways, a decrease in cellular stress response, and antioxidant defense mechanisms, collectively implying a potential reduction in liver fat accumulation. The findings suggest a potential complementary role of polyphenols in enhancing the efficacy of metformin, possibly allowing for reduced metformin dosage and mitigating its side effects. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate these findings and establish the safety and efficacy of this nutraceutical approach in managing type 2 diabetes.
Salmonella in Coastal Birds in Chile: Detection of a Multidrug‐Resistant S. Infantis Bearing the blaCTX-M−65 Gene in a pESI‐Like Megaplasmid in Humboldt Penguins
Authors: Wiederkehr Clara M. , Alvarez Julio , Torre-Fuentes Laura , Crespo-Lopez Oscar I. , Calfucura Paulina , Ugarte-Ruiz Maria , Toledo Viviana , Lurz Peter W. W. , Retamal Patricio
Published: June 2024

Salmonella enterica is one of the most important foodborne pathogens worldwide, and the emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) clones can aggravate its public health importance. Wildlife species may act as reservoirs of these clones, but their role is not well understood. In this study, faecal samples from shorebirds, with a focus on the endangered Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti), collected from five sites in central Chile with different levels of anthropogenic pressure were analysed to characterize antimicrobial resistant S. enterica serovars. Overall, Salmonella was isolated from 22 of the 595 samples (3.7%), with positivity ranging between 1.6% and 9.5%, depending on the sampling site. Four of the Salmonella isolates were retrieved from Humboldt penguin samples (1.4% positive samples in this species). Serovars Infantis (nine isolates), Typhimurium (six), Goldcoast (four), and Enteritidis, Agona, and Give (one isolate each) were identified. Resistance levels were the highest for sulphamethoxazole (13/21 isolates with a non‐wild‐type phenotype), ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and trimethoprim (11/21 each). Whole‐genome sequencing performed on eight S. Infantis strains revealed that seven carried the plasmid replicon IncFIB (pN55391), indicating the presence of the pESI‐like megaplasmid, harbouring resistance determinants to multiple antimicrobial classes as well as heavy metal, biocides, and virulence‐related genes. Furthermore, five S. Infantis isolates that showed an ESBL phenotype carried the blaCTX-M−65 gene, three of which were detected in Humboldt penguin faeces. The finding of an international emerging S. Infantis clone in protected wildlife is of concern to environmental, animal, and public health specialists, supporting initiatives for an active surveillance of resistance and virulence traits in wildlife exposed to anthropogenic areas.
The Lived Experiences of People with Severe Obesity Who Use Community Health and Social Care Services: A Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Williamson Kath , Lean Michael E. J. , Blane David N.
Published: June 2024

Evidence indicates growing demand on community health and social care services by people with severe obesity (BMI ≥40 kg/m2), often due to functional limitations. The experiences of this population are largely unexplored. As part of a larger mixed‐methods study, this qualitative study explored the lived experience of people with severe obesity using community health and social care services. Participants were recruited via community professionals and visited at home. They consented to individual, audio‐recorded, semistructured interviews, which were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Nine women and three men (n = 12) participated, aged 40–76 (mean 60) years, BMI ranged from 45 to 74 (mean 59) kg/m2, and eight were housebound. Three overarching themes were identified. Firstly, the hidden struggles of living with a larger body affected all participants, including functional limitations affecting mobility and personal care. These contributed to a sense of being stuck physically, socially, and biographically. Secondly, most participants reported implicit weight bias by a system structurally unprepared to care for people with larger bodies. The majority of participants showed strong internalised weight bias, linked to shame and self‐blame for their poor function and larger bodies. Thirdly, a day‐to‐day coping theme highlighted strategies regularly used by participants: resigned acceptance, avoidance and denial, exercising choice, and support from informal carers. These findings demonstrate that participants experienced unmet physical and psychological care needs associated with living with a larger body, leading to poor quality of care and life. Given rising prevalence, changes to care services are needed. Specific recommendations include staff training about the needs of people with severe obesity, ensuring that the physical infrastructure of care services can safely accommodate people with severe obesity, and improving access to effective, person‐centred weight management treatments.
Experimental Study on the Bending Performance of GFRP‐Concrete‐Steel Double‐Skin Tubular Beams with Different Fiber Angles
Authors: Xu Youwu , Zhu Haochuan , Du Chongliang , Yao Jian
Published: June 2024

Glass fiber‐reinforced plastics (GFRP) tube‐concrete‐steel tube double‐skin tubular beam (DSTB) is composed of an outer GFRP tube and an inner steel tube, with concrete sandwiched between two tubes. It possesses numerous advantages, including excellent ductility and corrosion resistance, lightweight, and convenient construction. Current research on DSTBs is primarily focused on the GFRP tube with an approximate ±90° fiber angle (the angle between the fiber direction and the longitudinal axis of DSTB). An experimental study on DSTBs with ±45°, ±56°, ±68°, and ±80° fiber angles was conducted under bending load. Experimental results show that the ultimate bearing capacity and deformation ability of DSTBs increases with the increase of fiber angle, the ultimate moment capacity of DSTBs with ±56°, ±68°, and ±80° fiber angles were 2.61%, 6.69%, and 6.74% higher than that of DSTB with ±45° fiber angle, respectively, the deformation ability of DSTBs with ±56°, ±68°, and ±80° fiber angles were 23.03%, 32.04%, and 38.48% higher than that of DSTB with ±45° fiber angle, respectively. However, the cracking strain decreases with the increase of fiber angle.
Time‐Frequency Connectedness between Green Bonds and Conventional Financial Markets: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Yingliang , Shi Guifen , Hou Guanchong
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the dynamic evolution and volatility spillovers between China’s green bond market and conventional financial markets (bond, stock, commodity, and foreign exchange markets) using time and frequency connectedness measures. The empirical findings are as follows: firstly, there is a significant volatility spillover effect between the green bond market and other traditional financial markets, with the spillover effect showing clear time‐varying characteristics. The total spillover effects among all markets increase notably during extreme market conditions. Secondly, the green bond market primarily acts as a net risk spillover transmitter in most periods. Thirdly, compared to the stock, foreign exchange, and commodity markets, the green bond market has a more significant spillover effect on the traditional fixed‐income market. Finally, the volatility spillover effect of the green bond market on other markets exhibits a time‐frequency evolution, predominantly driven by short‐term factors. However, as market maturity increases, the influencing factors of the spillover effect gradually shift from short‐term to medium and long‐term factors. These findings offer insights for portfolio and risk management.
Host‐, Environment‐, or Human‐Related Effects Drive Interspecies Interactions in an Animal Tuberculosis Multi‐Host Community Depending on the Host and Season
Authors: Ferreira Eduardo M. , Cunha Mónica V. , Duarte Elsa L. , Gonçalves Renata , Pinto Tiago , Mira António , Santos Sara M.
Published: June 2024

In many Mediterranean ecosystems, animal tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium bovis, is maintained by multi‐host communities in which cattle and different wildlife species establish interaction networks contributing to M. bovis transmission and persistence. Most studies have addressed wildlife–cattle disease‐relevant interactions, focusing on reservoir hosts, while disregarding the potential contribution of the so‐called accidental hosts and/or neglecting wildlife–wildlife interactions. In this work, we aimed to characterise interspecies interactions in an endemic TB risk area and identify the ecological drivers of interaction patterns regardless of the pre‐attributed role of host species on TB epidemiology. For that purpose, spatial–temporal indirect interactions between wildlife mammals and cattle, and between different wildlife species, were investigated through camera trapping. Second, five ecological hypotheses potentially driving species pair interactions in the wet and dry seasons were tested covering water and control sites: human presence (H1), landscape composition (H2), topography (H3), weather (H4), and natural food and water resources (H5). Wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) were the wildlife species mostly involved in indirect interactions. We found that indirect wildlife–cattle interactions were more frequent than wildlife interactions and, for certain species pairs, interaction rates were higher in the wet season in both wildlife–cattle and wildlife groups. Natural food and water resources (H5) was the most supported hypothesis that influenced the abundance of wildlife–cattle interactions, with positive effects during the dry season and negative effects during the wet season. In contrast, the abundance of indirect interactions between wildlife species was mainly supported by the human disturbance hypothesis (H1), with negative effects exerted on the dry season and variable effects on the wet season. Other tested hypotheses also influenced wildlife–cattle and wildlife–wildlife interactions, depending on the season and host species. These results highlight that indirect interactions, and thus conditions potentially favouring the transmission of M. bovis in shared environments, are determined by different ecological backgrounds.
Reflections and Roadmaps: Career Development beyond the FDA-AACR Oncology Educational Fellowship
Authors: Patel Timil , Chen Chris , Al Hadidi Samer , Kadry Yasmin , Sridhara Rajeshwari , Purcell Erin , Wisch Laura , Retzlaff Jon , Foti Margaret , Pazdur Richard , Kluetz Paul , Gao Jennifer
Published: June 2024

In 2020, the FDA’s Oncology Center of Excellence, in collaboration with the American Association for Cancer Research, launched a novel educational partnership known as the FDA-AACR Oncology Educational Fellowship. This year-long program is aimed for hematology/oncology fellows, scientists, and early-career investigators, offering an in-depth exploration of the regulatory review process by blending didactic learning with practical cases discussing oncology drug approvals. The fellowship has been met with enthusiastic feedback, with participants lauding its role in demystifying the regulatory landscape and enhancing their professional careers. This article reflects on the experiences of four alumni, showcasing the program’s transformative impact across diverse oncology career paths in government, academia, and industry.
Abstract B011: Detecting pairwise and higher-order antagonistic epistatic effects among somatic cancer genotypes to discover synthetic lethality
Authors: Alfaro-Murillo Jorge A. , Dasari Krishna , Townsend Jeffrey P
Published: June 2024

This abstract is being presented as a short talk in the scientific program. A full abstract is printed in the Proffered Abstracts section (PR013) of the Conference Program/Proceedings.

Citation Format: Jorge A. Alfaro-Murillo, Krishna Dasari, Jeffrey P Townsend. Detecting pairwise and higher-order antagonistic epistatic effects among somatic cancer genotypes to discover synthetic lethality [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Expanding and Translating Cancer Synthetic Vulnerabilities; 2024 Jun 10-13; Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2024;23(6 Suppl):Abstract nr B011.
Abstract B014: Unveiling the future: Exploring cutting-edge technologies for synthetic lethality discovery
Authors: David Peter Oloche
Published: June 2024

Synthetic lethality discovery is an emerging field of research that aims to reshape the landscape of cancer treatment, offering new hope and possibilities for patients faced with challenging diagnoses. In this article, we explored the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of synthetic lathality research. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are not just buzzwords but indispensable tools that are shaping the field of precision medicine and personalized cancer treatment. By leveraging the power of computational tools, scientists can accelerate the identification of synthetic lethal interactions and pave the way for the development of more effective targeted cancer therapies. Through case studies, researchers can uncover the functional genomics of complex diseases and identify novel drug targets for cancer therapy. The integration of multi-omics approaches not only enhances the depth of analysis but also offers a more nuanced understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving synthetic lethal interactions, paving the way to unlock novel therapeutics and personalized treatment strategies. In addition, the integration of high-throughput screening techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, opens up new avenues for identifying new drug targets and therapeutic strategies, ultimately paving a new era where personalized and targeted therapies redefine the way we approach cancer care, ushering in a novel era of precision and efficacy in medicine.

Citation Format: Peter Oloche David. Unveiling the future: Exploring cutting-edge technologies for synthetic lethality discovery [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Expanding and Translating Cancer Synthetic Vulnerabilities; 2024 Jun 10-13; Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2024;23(6 Suppl):Abstract nr B014.
Abstract B022: TEAD inhibition overcomes YAP/TAZ-driven resistance to RAS(ON) inhibitors
Authors: Vemulapalli Vidyasiri , Dinh Phuong , Ayala Mariela Moreno , Zhang Zheng , Labrecque Mark , Aronchik Ida , Jiang Jingjing , Singh Mallika , Quintana Elsa , Weller Caroline , Wildes David
Published: June 2024

Acquired resistance poses a significant challenge to the long-term efficacy of RAS inhibitors in clinical settings (Awad et al, 2021). Genome-wide CRISPR screening efforts, conducted by us and others in the field, have identified key components of the Hippo pathway as major mediators of resistance to RAS inhibitors (Mukhopadhyay et al., 2023, Edwards et al., 2023). Specifically, the oncogenic transcriptional co-regulators YAP and TAZ, which require binding to the TEAD transcription factors to elicit their activity, have emerged as pivotal players in resistance mechanisms to MAPK pathway targeted therapies. In this work, we demonstrate that YAP overexpression is a driver of resistance to RAS(ON) multi-selective and RAS(ON) G12C-selective inhibitors. The YAP transcriptional signature is elevated in cells with acquired resistance to RAS(ON) inhibitors, and combination with TEAD inhibitors enhances their sensitivity to RAS(ON) inhibition. Notably, phosphoproteomics and imaging studies revealed that the YAP cytoplasmic retention mark is reduced upon treatment of cancer cells with RAS(ON) multi-selective inhibitor, leading to the translocation of YAP to the nucleus and its subsequent activation. Furthermore, a pan-TEAD inhibitor exhibits a high degree of synergy with RAS(ON) inhibitors in a panel of KRAS mutant cell lines in vitro. We are currently investigating the combination of RAS(ON) and TEAD inhibitors in vivo. Our studies support further investigation of combination strategies using RAS(ON) and TEAD inhibitors to mitigate the emergence of persister cells and overcome resistance to monotherapy.

Citation Format: Vidyasiri Vemulapalli, Phuong Dinh, Mariela Moreno Ayala, Zheng Zhang, Mark Labrecque, Ida Aronchik, Jingjing Jiang, Mallika Singh, Elsa Quintana, Caroline Weller, David Wildes. TEAD inhibition overcomes YAP/TAZ-driven resistance to RAS(ON) inhibitors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Expanding and Translating Cancer Synthetic Vulnerabilities; 2024 Jun 10-13; Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2024;23(6 Suppl):Abstract nr B022.
Progression of white matter hyperintensities is related to blood pressure increases and global cognitive decline – A registered report
Authors: Beyer Frauke , Lammer Laurenz , Loeffler Markus , Riedel-Heller Steffi , Debette Stéphanie , Villringer Arno , Witte A. Veronica
Published: June 2024

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) reflect cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD), a major brain pathology contributing to cognitive decline and dementia. Vascular risk factors, including higher diastolic blood pressure (DBP), have been associated with the progression of WMH yet longitudinal studies have not comprehensively assessed these effects for abdominal obesity or reported sex/gender-specific effects. In this pre-registered analysis of a longitudinal population-based neuroimaging cohort, we investigated the association of baseline DBP and waist-to-hip ratio with WMH progression in linear mixed models. We also examined the relationship of WMH progression and executive and global cognitive function. We conducted gender interaction and stratified analyses. We included data from 596 individuals (44.1 % females, mean age = 63.2 years) with two MRI scans over approximately 6 years. We did not find a significant association of baseline DBP with WMH progression. WMH progression significantly predicted global cognitive decline but not decline in executive function. In exploratory analyses, increases in DBP as well as baseline and increase in systolic blood pressure were associated with WMH progression, confined to frontal periventricular regions. There was no association of WHR nor any gender-specific associations with WMH progression. Adequate BP control might contribute to limit WMH progression and negative effects on global cognitive function in the middle-aged to older population for men and women.
The relationship between SV2A levels, neural activity, and cognitive function in healthy humans: A [11C]UCB-J PET and fMRI study
Authors: Shatalina Ekaterina , Onwordi Ellis Chika , Whitehurst Thomas , Whittington Alexander , Mansur Ayla , Arumuham Atheeshaan , Statton Ben , Berry Alaine , Marques Tiago Reis , Gunn Roger N. , Natesan Sridhar , Nour Matthew M. , Rabiner Eugenii A. , Wall Matthew B. , Howes Oliver D.
Published: June 2024

Synaptic terminal density is thought to influence cognitive function and neural activity, yet its role in cognition has not been explored in healthy humans. We examined these relationships using [11C]UCB-J positron emission tomography (PET) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 25 healthy adults performing cognitive function tasks in the scanner. We found a significant positive association between synaptic terminal density, indicated by [11C]UCB-J PET distribution volume ratio (DVRcs), and neural activity during task switching (PLS-CA, second canonical component, r = 0.63, p = 0.043) with the thalamus-putamen data positively contributing to this relationship (PLS-CA loading 0.679, exploratory Pearson’s correlation r = 0.42, p = 0.044, uncorrected). Furthermore, synaptic terminal density predicted switch cost (PLS-R, R2 = 0.45, RMSE = 0.06, p = 0.022), with DVRcs negatively correlating with switch cost in key brain regions including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and posterior frontal cortex. Conversely, no significant relationships were observed between [11C]UCB-J DVRcs and neural activity or performance measures in the N-back working memory task, suggesting interindividual differences in synaptic terminal density may be more closely related to some cognitive functions and not others.
Using respiratory challenges to modulate CSF movement across different physiological pathways: An fMRI study
Authors: Nair Vidhya Vijayakrishnan , Diorio Tyler C. , Wen Qiuting , Rayz Vitaliy L. , Tong Yunjie
Published: June 2024

With growing evidence signifying the impact of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow in facilitating waste clearance from the brain and potential pathophysiological links to neurodegenerative disorders, it is of vital importance to develop effective methods to modulate CSF flow in the brain. Here, we attempt this by means of simple commonly used respiratory challenges—paced breathing and breath holding. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging scans of the brain and neck respectively were used to record the craniad and caudad CSF movements at the fourth ventricle from eight healthy volunteers during paced breathing and breath holding. Further, we utilized a novel approach for the first time to combine these separately acquired unidirectional CSF movement signals to compare the CSF flow in both directions (in the fourth ventricle) with the respiratory stimuli as a physiological control. Our results demonstrate that these respiratory challenges enhance the magnitude as well as control the direction of CSF movement in the fourth ventricle. They also reveal the capability of blood CO2 concentration changes (induced by respiratory challenges) in the low-frequency range to bring about these CSF movement modulations. Finally, we also successfully report our novel approach where we use these breathing challenges as a unique control condition to detect the small net CSF flows from independently captured unidirectional signals.
Predicting brain age across the adult lifespan with spontaneous oscillations and functional coupling in resting brain networks captured with magnetoencephalography
Authors: Hardy Samuel , Roberts Gill , Ventresca Matthew , Dunkley Benjamin T.
Published: June 2024

The functional repertoire of the human brain changes dramatically throughout the developmental trajectories of early life and even all the way throughout the adult lifespan into older age. Capturing this arc is important to understand healthy brain ageing, and conversely, how injury and diseased states can lead to accelerated brain ageing. Regression modelling using lifespan imaging data can reliably predict an individual’s brain age based on expected arcs of ageing. One feature of brain function that is important in this respect, and understudied to date, is neural oscillations—the rhythmic fluctuations of brain activity that index neural cell assemblies and their functioning, as well as coordinating information flow around networks. Here, we analysed resting-state magnetoencephalography (MEG) recordings from 367 healthy participants aged 18 to 83, using two distinct statistical approaches to link neural oscillations and functional coupling with that of healthy ageing. Spectral power and leakage-corrected amplitude envelope correlations were calculated for each canonical frequency band from delta through gamma ranges. Spatially and spectrally consistent associations between healthy ageing and neurophysiological features were found across the applied methods, showing differential effects on neural oscillations, with decreasing amplitude of low frequencies throughout the adult lifespan, and increasing high-frequency amplitude. Functional connectivity within and between resting-state brain networks mediated by alpha coupling generally decreased throughout adulthood and increased in the beta band. Predictive modelling of brain age via regression showed an age-dependent prediction bias, resulting in overestimating the age of younger people (<40 years old) and underestimating the age of older individuals. These findings evidence strong age-related neurophysiological changes in oscillatory activity and functional networks of the brain as measured by resting-state MEG and that cortical oscillations are moderately reliable markers for predictive modelling. For researchers in the field of predictive brain age modelling with neurophysiological data, we recommend attention is paid to predictive biases for younger and older age ranges and consider using specific models for different age brackets. Nevertheless, these results suggest brain age prediction from MEG data can be used to model arcs of ageing throughout the adult lifespan and predict accelerated ageing in pathological brain states.
Population genetics of the endemic Large-crested toad (Incilius cristatus): a declining and critically endangered species
Authors: Zolá-Rodríguez Meghan Ivette , Manuel García-Feria Luis , González-Romero Alberto
Published: June 2024

The Large-crested toad is an endemic species of the mountain cloud forests of the Sierra Madre Oriental in Mexico. It is listed as endangered, and the population trend is decreasing. We used mitochondrial fragments 12S (450 bp) and cytochrome b (410 bp) from four toads’ populations from remnant fragments of mountain cloud forest in Puebla and Veracruz to estimate the genetic’ structure, gene flow, and demographic history. The 12S gene had a single haplotype and null nucleotide diversity. The cytochrome b fragment showed 4 haplotypes, intermediate nucleotide diversity (), and strong genetic structuring (). Demographic history suggests that there is a low effective population size (), possibly due to post-bottleneck expansion and contraction events in some populations. Current difficulty finding individuals at localities where they had been previously documented suggests that the population continues to decline, resulting in low diversity and gene flow. Habitat fragmentation and loss, as well as water pollution at breeding sites, increases the probability of extinction of this species. The importance of establishing conservation strategies for the habitat and genetic diversity of the remaining populations is highlighted.
A nomenclatural review of family-group names in the Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera: Ensifera)
Authors: CONNORS MATTHEW G.
Published: June 2024

The Tettigoniidae is the largest and most complex family within the Orthoptera, and perhaps expectedly, its systematic arrangement is largely unsatisfactory. Recent phylogenetic studies within the group have been almost wholly at odds with traditional morphological classification, and it is clear that a great number of changes will be made to the family in the near future. To remove the element of nomenclatural uncertainty that will inevitably arise with such dramatic changes, I here provide a complete annotated list of all family-group names proposed within the Tettigoniidae in explicit order of priority. I provide details of the authorship, availability, current validity, current rank(s) and name(s), type genus, stem, and parent taxon of each of the 182 proposed family-group names, of which 171 represent available names. I also make several nomenclatural changes, the most significant of which is the replacement of available but informal groupings (e.g. species groups) with formal tribes, subtribes, and infratribes. Other major changes are the replacement of Nedubini syn. nov. with Apteropedetini stat. nov., the replacement of Eumegalodontina (unavailable name) with Lesinina stat. nov., and the designation of Acanthodidae as nomen oblitum with respect to Pleminiae (nomen protectum). To reduce confusion in future, I recommend that all new family-group names be clearly proposed as new, with a correct rank, stem, suffix, and diagnosis, that informal groupings are explicitly proposed as informal, and that formal names are used and proposed in place of informal names wherever possible. I additionally propose that the suffixes -iti and -ita be used for all supertribe and infratribe rankings within the Tettigoniidae. Finally, I discuss the various names that have been used for taxa between the ranks of family and subfamily, with the recommendation that informal ‘group’ and ‘clade’ names with unambiguous suffixes are formed from available subfamily names.
A new species of Ducetia (Tettigoniidae, Phaneropterinae) from Mindanao, Philippines based on bioacoustics, stridulatory file morphology and genetic data
Authors: SALVADOR JEWEL ANNE G. , NUÑEZA OLGA MACAS , ROBILLARD TONY , TAN MING KAI
Published: June 2024

The Ducetia japonica species group consists of 11 species widely distributed in Asia and Australia. It includes a single species from the Philippines: Ducetia adspersa Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1878. Previously synonymized under Ducetia japonica (Thunberg, 1815), this species was resurrected for its unique stridulatory file. Based on its distinct stridulatory file morphology, male calling song and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I signature, we discovered and describe here a new species from Mindanao in the south of the Philippines: Ducetia laniae sp. nov. We also describe the calling song of this new species. This discovery underscores the rich biodiversity of the region and highlights the necessity for continued exploration and study to unravel the complexities within this genus.
Response of Subpolar North Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation to Variability in Surface Winds on Different Timescales
Authors: Markina Margarita Y. , Johnson Helen L. , Marshall David P.
Published: June 2024

A large part of the variability in the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) and thus uncertainty in its estimates on interannual time scales comes from atmospheric synoptic eddies and mesoscale processes. In this study, a suite of experiments with a 1/12° regional configuration of the MITgcm is performed where low-pass filtering is applied to surface wind forcing to investigate the impact of subsynoptic (<2 days) and synoptic (2–10 days) atmospheric processes on the ocean circulation. Changes in the wind magnitude and hence the wind energy input in the region have a significant effect on the strength of the overturning; once this is accounted for, the magnitude of the overturning in all sensitivity experiments is very similar to that of the control run. Synoptic and subsynoptic variability in atmospheric winds reduce the surface heat loss in the Labrador Sea, resulting in anomalous advection of warm and salty waters into the Irminger Sea and lower upper-ocean densities in the eastern subpolar North Atlantic. Other effects of high-frequency variability in surface winds on the AMOC are associated with changes in Ekman convergence in the midlatitudes. Synoptic and subsynoptic winds also impact the strength of the boundary currents and density structure in the subpolar North Atlantic. In the Labrador Sea, the overturning strength is more sensitive to the changes in density structure, whereas in the eastern subpolar North Atlantic, the role of density is comparable to that of the strength of the East Greenland Current.

Significance Statement

A key issue in understanding how well the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation is simulated in climate models is determining the impact of synoptic (2–10 days) and subsynoptic (shorter) wind variability on ocean circulation. We find that the greatest impact of wind changes on the strength of the overturning is through changes in energy input from winds to the ocean. Variations in winds have a more modest impact via changes in heat loss over the Labrador Sea, alongside changes in wind-driven surface currents. This study highlights the importance of accurately representing the density in the Labrador Sea, and both the strength and density structure of the East Greenland Current, for the correct representation of overturning circulation in climate models.
Conceptualizing and Contextualizing “Executive Wisdom” as a Framework for Business Leadership: A Grounded Theory Approach
Authors: Intezari Ali , McKenna Bernard , Rahmati Mohammad Hossein
Published: June 2024

This study contextualizes business leaders’ perspectives on business-society interaction through the theoretical lens of wisdom. Morally effective interaction between business and society relies on shared perceptions of expected values grounded in leaders’ virtuous behavior. Through empirical fieldwork across industries in a developing society, the article documents how local business leaders perceive wise leadership in dealing with socially complex problems. Using grounded theory, we inductively developed a model of wisdom, executive wisdom, that identifies 14 characteristics of wisdom, located in three groups: technē, wise decisions, and virtuous disposition. The findings broaden the view of the complex nature of wise decision-making in the business-society context.
Procedural Justice in Biblical Law
Authors: Hamilton Mark W.
Published: June 2024

While ancient Israelite legal thinkers did not write theoretical treatises in legal procedures, they drew on ancient Near Eastern commitments to due process, explicated and developed such older ideas, and gave them theological import within the context of the legal collections that now appear in the Hebrew Bible. Deuteronomy and Leviticus both show evidence of such concerns, as do courtroom stories in Jeremiah. The existence of such texts has received insufficient attention, but their recovery is important in the contemporary era, when the rule of law has become a contested idea in some circles.
Sustainability Hermeneutics: The New Task of African Biblical Studies
Authors: Uwaegbute Kingsley Ikechukwu
Published: June 2024

As a new and emerging approach to biblical interpretation, Sustainability Hermeneutics (SH) combines aspects of the environment, economy, and society in its interpretation of biblical texts. Such an approach to biblical interpretation shows the interaction of the environment, economy and society in biblical texts in line with the understanding of sustainability. It is therefore integrative and holistic. This article argued that such an approach holds so much promise for African Biblical Studies (ABS) at a time when the African continent is faced with myriads of developmental issues. While Sustainability Hermeneutics ingrains biblical texts into an integrative African worldview, the article also argued that the urgency of the use of Sustainability Hermeneutics in African Biblical Studies lies in the fact that the Bible and its messages still make sense to many African Christians. So, Sustainability Hermeneutics, if well utilised in African Biblical Studies, will motivate many African Christians to take actions that will lead to sustainable African societies.
The Impact of Opium Consumption on Inflammatory Factors in Umbilical Cord Blood and Maternal Blood Postpartum: A Potential Contributor to Neonatal Complications
Authors: Khayat Samira , Fanaei Hamed , Riki Farideh , Navabi Rigi Shahindokht , Alijani Ebrahim
Published: June 2024

Opium addiction during pregnancy can have significant effects on the activity of the immune system as well as on pregnancy outcomes. A study was conducted comparing opium-addicted pregnant women to healthy pregnant women. Blood samples were taken from the maternal vein and umbilical cord immediately after delivery to measure concentrations of inflammatory markers. The results showed that the opium-addicted group had significantly higher levels of IL-6, IL-10, CRP, C3, and C4 in both maternal and cord blood samples compared to the control group. Additionally, adverse pregnancy outcomes such as NICU admissions, neonatal deaths, and low Apgar scores were more prevalent in the opium-addicted group. These findings suggest that opium addiction during pregnancy can lead to postpartum inflammation and negatively impact pregnancy outcomes. It is important to address opium addiction and provide appropriate support and treatment to pregnant women to improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
English Speakers’ Perception of Non-native Vowel Contrasts in Adverse Listening Conditions: A Discrimination Study on the German Front Rounded Vowels /y/ and /ø/
Authors: Kaucke Stephanie , Schlechtweg Marcel
Published: June 2024

Previous research has shown that it is difficult for English speakers to distinguish the front rounded vowels /y/ and /ø/ from the back rounded vowels /u/ and /o/. In this study, we examine the effect of noise on this perceptual difficulty. In an Oddity Discrimination Task, English speakers without any knowledge of German were asked to discriminate between German-sounding pseudowords varying in the vowel both in quiet and in white noise at two signal-to-noise ratios (8 and 0 dB). In test trials, vowels of the same height were contrasted with each other, whereas a contrast with /a/ served as a control trial. Results revealed that a contrast with /a/ remained stable in every listening condition for both high and mid vowels. When contrasting vowels of the same height, however, there was a perceptual shift along the F2 dimension as the noise level increased. Although the /ø/-/o/ and particularly /y/-/u/ contrasts were the most difficult in quiet, accuracy on /i/-/y/ and /e/-/ø/ trials decreased immensely when the speech signal was masked. The German control group showed the same pattern, albeit less severe than the non-native group, suggesting that even in low-level tasks with pseudowords, there is a native advantage in speech perception in noise.