bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing sheet metal edge quality with laser-polishing: surface characterization and performance evaluation
Authors: Li Dongsong , Linnenbrink Stefanie , Tekkaya Berk , Dölz Michael , Willenborg Edgar , Könemann Markus , Münstermann Sebastian
Published: July 2024

Dual-phase (DP) steels are widely used in the automotive industry due to their exceptional performance. It offers excellent strength, ductility, formability, and weldability. However, there is a high risk of edge cracking, particularly in materials like DP1000 steel, caused by residual damage from blanking, such as microcracks and burrs, which needs further investigation. In this study, the transformative potential of laser-polishing on DP1000 steel was investigated. The goal was to reduce edge crack sensitivity and enhance edge formability. In this work, laser-polished samples produced by various pre-manufacturing techniques such as sawing, punching, and waterjet cutting were examined. Various evaluations were performed on laser-polished samples. Those included white-light-confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) analysis. Those evaluations aimed to analyze the microstructural transformation, surface roughness, and micro grain size distribution resulting from laser-polishing. Laser-polishing is a process in which the edge of the sample is remelted locally. Hence, residual damage vanishes, and surface defects disappear, which should be beneficial for edge formability. On the other hand, the cooling rate during re-solidification is high, leading to high strength and reduced ductility compared to the initial DP steel. Therefore, hole expansion tests were conducted to evaluate the edge formability of the steel. The results indicated a significant improvement in the hole expansion ratio of the laser-polished samples compared to samples with conventional manufactured edges. These findings will help to assess the advantages and limitations of laser-polishing in sheet material manufacturing.
Nature-based solutions in spatial planning and policies for climate change adaptation: A literature review
Authors: Corgo João , Cruz Sara Santos , Conceição Paulo
Published: July 2024

Nature-based solutions (NbSs) are recognised as relevant to spatial planning in addressing societal challenges, although their uptake is limited and fragmented to some case studies, and difficulties emerge from their implementation and operationalisation. The research developed a literature review to investigate how NbS has been considered for its implementation and operationalisation in spatial planning and how NbS has been included across different policy instruments and used to address climate change adaptation (CCA). The results highlighted: Firstly, the review contributed to bridge the gap in NbS implementation and operationalisation by proposing a novel three-dimensional categorisation system to guide the selection of suitable NbS principles to address societal challenges; secondly, this study still revealed gaps in some policy areas, despite the effort to extensively apply NbS across diverse policy instruments to CCA. Overall, the review further emphasises the need for future research focused on monitoring and evaluating NbS's effectiveness to CCA.
“I don't know how, if, it's ever going to end”: narratives of caring for someone with an enduring eating disorder
Authors: Burman Charlotte , Rhodes Paul , Vatter Sabina , Miskovic-Wheatley Jane
Published: July 2024

Background

Families and carers are pivotal in supporting loved ones experiencing eating disorders. This role can bring immense distress and burden, yet the experience of caring for someone with an enduring eating disorder has had minimal research focus. Thus, the purpose of this study is to give voice to carers empowering their stories to increase awareness and understanding, which could inform support to carers and consequently people with a lived and/or living experience of eating disorders.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 9 carers supporting individuals who had been experiencing an eating disorder for 7 or more years. Data were collected and analysed using narrative inquiry approach.

Results

Carers’ narratives revealed feelings of guilt and personal failure; a profound sense of disillusion with current treatment approaches; and immense grief and anguish. As they negotiated a tenuous relationship with hope and the uncertainty of their loved one’s future, carers spoke to a complex myriad of feelings of acceptance, letting go, and forging on.

Conclusion

Carers deserve to have their voices heard where they are too often silenced. Their narratives provide an urgent call for transformation in our treatments for eating disorders and further involvement of carers within the treatment journey, and their lived experience perspectives have great potential to guide this endeavour.

Level of Evidence

Level V, qualitative interviews.
Microalgae–bacteria interaction: a catalyst to improve maize (Zea mays L.) growth and soil fertility
Authors: Solomon Wogene , Mutum Lamnganbi , Janda Tibor , Molnar Zoltan
Published: July 2024

Biofertilisers harbouring living organisms hold allure due to their prospective favourable influence on plant growth, coupled with a diminished environmental footprint and cost-effectiveness in contrast to conventional mineral fertilisers. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the capacity of a specific microalga (MACC-612, Nostoc linckia) biomass and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) separately and together to improve crop growth and promote soil health. The research used a factorial design within a completely randomised block framework, featuring four replications for three consecutive years across different fields. The experiment utilised three levels of microalga (control, 0.3 g/L of N. linckia, MACC-612, and 1 g/L of N. linckia, MACC-612) and three levels of bacterial strains (control, Azospirillum lipoferum and Pseudomonas fluorescens). The result demonstrated that the use of N. linckia and PGPB separately or jointly as soil treatment resulted in a substantial improvement in chlorophyll, plant biomass, soil humus, and nitrogen, depending on the environmental conditions of the years. The combined use of N. linckia and PGPB results in an improvement in dry leaf weight by 35.6–107.3% at 50 days after sowing (DAS) and 29.6–49.8% at 65 DAS, compared to the control group. Furthermore, the studies show that the synergistic application of N. linckia at 0.3 g/L, in conjunction with A. lipoferum, significantly improved total nitrogen and (NO3− + NO2−)-nitrogen, registering increases of 20.7–40% and 27.1–59.2%, respectively, during the study period. The most effective synergistic combination was identified through the application of 0.3 g/L of N. linckia along with A. lipoferum. Hence, application of biofertilisers through synergistic combinations of two or more microorganisms, such as microalgae and bacteria, holds promise in improving crop chlorophyll, growth, and soil nitrogen.
A stacking machine learning model for predicting pullout capacity of small ground anchors
Authors: Li Lin , Zuo Linlong , Wei Guangfeng , Jiang Shouming , Yu Jian
Published: July 2024

Small ground anchors are widely used to fix securing tents in disaster relief efforts. Given the urgent nature of rescue operations, it is crucial to obtain prompt and accurate estimations of their pullout capacity. In this study, a stacking machine learning (ML) model is developed for the rapid estimation of pullout capacity offered by small ground anchors used for temporary tents, leveraging cone penetration data. The proposed stacking model incorporates three ML algorithms as the base regression models: K-nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector regression (SVR), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). A dataset comprising 119 in-situ anchor pullout tests, where the cone penetration data were measured, is utilized to train and assess the stacking model performance. Three metrics, i.e., coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE), are employed to evaluate the predictive accuracy of the proposed model and compare its performance against four popular ML models and an empirical formula to highlight the advantages of the proposed stacking approach. The results affirm that the proposed stacking model outperforms other ML models and the empirical approach as achieving higher R2 and lower MAE and RMSE and more predicted data points falling within 20% error line. Thus, the proposed stacking model holds promising potential as a solution for efficiently predicting the pullout capacity of small ground anchors.
Securing tomorrow: a comprehensive survey on the synergy of Artificial Intelligence and information security
Authors: Hashmi Ehtesham , Yamin Muhammad Mudassar , Yayilgan Sule Yildirim
Published: July 2024

This survey paper explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in information security. Traditional methods, especially rule-based approaches, faced significant challenges in protecting sensitive data from ever-changing cyber threats, particularly with the rapid increase in data volume. This study thoroughly evaluates AI’s application in information security, discussing its strengths and weaknesses. It provides a detailed review of AI’s impact on information security, examining various AI algorithms used in this field, such as supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning, and highlighting their respective strengths and limitations. The study identifies key areas for future AI research in information security, focusing on improving algorithms, strengthening information security, addressing ethical issues, and exploring safety and security-related concerns. It emphasizes significant security risks, including vulnerability to adversarial attacks, and aims to enhance the robustness and reliability of AI systems in protecting sensitive information by proposing solutions for potential threats. The findings aim to benefit cybersecurity professionals and researchers by offering insights into the intricate relationship between AI, information security, and emerging technologies.
Preparation and characterization of ox bone powder and bamboo fibers reinforced hybrid epoxy composites
Authors: Molla Yonas , Belay Mezigebu
Published: July 2024

Composite materials are one of the fastest growing when compared with metal, ceramic, and polymer due to their high specific strength, stiffness, and versatile application in various fields. This study aimed to develop an ox bone powder and bamboo fiber-reinforced hybrid epoxy composite for stock and bumper applications and investigate the effect of the reinforcements on the composite’s mechanical properties. The reinforcements used in this work were random orientations of animal bone (ox) powder of 75 microns and bamboo fiber. The matrix used for this work was epoxy resin. Composite materials were prepared using the hand layup method with a 40% weight fraction of reinforcement (bone powder and bamboo fiber) and a 60% weight fraction of epoxy resin matrix. Five different combinations of bone powder and bamboo fiber with a fixed amount of epoxy resin were used for this work. The combinations of bamboo fiber and bone powder were: 40% bamboo fiber with 0% bone powder; 30% bamboo fiber with 10% bone powder; 20% bamboo fiber with 20% bone powder; and 0% bamboo fiber with 40% bone powder. The mechanical properties studied were compressive strength, impact strength, and flexural strength. In addition, water absorption was studied for all combinations. The maximum results of the flexural and impact strengths were 278.91 MPa and 7.5 J/m, respectively, at a 0:40 (bone powder: bamboo fiber) composite. The maximum compressive strength and the lowest absorption obtained were 283.3 MPa and 1.05%, respectively, at the 40:0 (bone powder: bamboo fiber) composite. For the hybrid composite case, optimal flexural and impact strengths were 236.72 MPa and 6.66 J/m, respectively, and water absorption was 1.52% at 10:30 (bone powder: bamboo fiber). Since reasonable flexural strength, impact strength, and water absorption were obtained with the hybrid composite of 10:30 (bone powder: bamboo fiber), this combination of the hybrid composite is recommended for stock and bumper applications.
Giant dielectric ceramic of Li0.3Ti0.02Ni0.68O with abundant oxygen vacancies enabling high lithium-ion conductivity in composite solid-state electrolyte
Authors: An Xufei , Yuan Yu , Yang Ke , Zhang Danfeng , Cao Yidan , Liu Ming , Kang Feiyu , He Yan-Bing
Published: July 2024

The low ionic conductivity of composite solid-state electrolytes due to the lack of free Li-ions and Li dendrite growth induced by the low transference number seriously hinder their application. Herein, we find that the giant dielectric ceramic of Li0.3Ti0.02Ni0.68O (LTNO) with ultra-high dielectric constant can greatly promote the dissociation of Li salt to generate abundant movable Li-ions and realize a high room-temperature ionic conductivity (4.09 × 10–4 S cm−1) as well as a low activation energy (0.16 eV). The oxygen vacancies on the surface of LTNO can effectively immobilize the anions to achieve a high Li transference number (0.61). Furthermore, the enhanced dielectric properties of the composite electrolyte induce homogenous Li plating/stripping to suppress the growth of Li dendrites. As a result, the Li||Li symmetric cells exhibit long lifespan of 2400 h and 1150 h at 0.1 mA cm−2 and 0.2 mA cm−2, respectively. The Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 solid-state full cells show a high capacity retention of 83% after 430 cycles at 2C. This work highlights the critical role of high dielectric property and oxygen defects of fillers in composite solid-state electrolytes, and provides a demonstration for the application of giant dielectric materials in solid-state Li metal batteries.
In-situ analysis of sub-nanomolar level of Fe(II) in open-ocean waters
Authors: Obata Hajime , Mase Akira , Gamo Toshitaka , Nishioka Jun , Okamura Kei
Published: July 2024

Iron (Fe) in seawater is an essential micronutrient for marine phytoplankton, and Fe deficiency limits their growth in high-nutrient, low-chlorophyll areas. The bioavailability of Fe for phytoplankton largely depends on its chemical speciation in seawater. In surface water, the reduction of Fe(III) to Fe(II) is an important step in the uptake of Fe by phytoplankton. However, the marine biogeochemical cycle of Fe(II) in the open ocean has not been fully investigated. In oxic open-ocean waters, Fe(II) is rapidly oxidized and exists at sub-nanomolar levels, making it difficult to determine the Fe(II) concentration of seawater. In this study, we applied the flow analytical method of determining the Fe(II) concentration of seawater using luminol chemiluminescence in an in-situ analyzer (geochemical anomaly monitoring system, GAMOS). In the onboard laboratory, we successfully detected sub-nanomolar levels of Fe(II) in seawater using the GAMOS. In the central Indian Ocean, this analyzer was deployed at a depth of 1000 m to determine the Fe(II) concentration in the water column. During deployment, the detection limit (0.48 nM) was insufficient to determine the concentration. Therefore, we need to lower the blank values and enhance the stability of signal of the in-situ analytical method for application to open-ocean seawater samples.

Graphical abstract
Top-ranked U.S. and U.K.’s universities’ first responses to GenAI: key themes, emotions, and pedagogical implications for teaching and learning
Authors: Singh Rita Gill , Ngai Cindy Sing Bik
Published: July 2024

The emergence of ChatGPT, a Generative AI program, has sparked discussions about its teaching and learning value, and concerns about academic integrity in higher education (HE). An extant review of the literature indicates that a scarcity of research exists on GenAI, specifically a synthesis of the official views, guidelines and articles of top-ranked universities on the use, limitations, challenges, and opportunities brought by ChatGPT in the early phase when ChatGPT was released in 2022 until early May 2023, which can offer insights into the concerns and recommendations for educators. Using the corpus assisted discourse analysis approach, this study identified the key themes and emotions elicited by evaluations of the ChatGPT situation from a self-built corpus containing 151 articles from 47 top-ranked U.S. universities and 34 U.K. ones. Our findings indicated three prominent themes discussed on official websites, including ChatGPT as a text and content generator, use of ChatGPT in teaching and learning, and potential implications and opportunities of using ChatGPT in HE. Further examination revealed that bias, concern, worry, threat, fear, and trust were the prevailing emotions relating to ChatGPT. Illustrated with examples collected from our corpus, this paper offers an in-depth discussion of universities’ first responses to the use of ChatGPT. The insights gained have some pedagogical implications for academics, researchers and educators and may inform policy and practice in HE on the use of GenAI.
C. auris and neighborhood socioeconomic vulnerability in the state of Maryland from 2019 to 2022
Authors: Smith L. Leigh , Falvey Jason , Grace Brittany , Vaeth Elisabeth , Rubin Jamie , Perlmutter Rebecca , Blythe David , Hawkins Daryl , Mbuthia Martha , Roghmann Mary-Claire , Rock Clare , Leekha Surbhi
Published: July 2024

Background:

Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen increasingly recognized as a cause of healthcare-associated infections including outbreaks.

Methods:

We performed a mixed-methods study to characterize the emergence of C. auris in the state of Maryland from 2019 to 2022, with a focus on socioeconomic vulnerability and infection prevention opportunities. We describe all case-patients of C. auris among Maryland residents from June 2019 to December 2021 detected by Maryland Department of Health. We compared neighborhood socioeconomic characteristics of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) with and without C. auris transmission outbreaks using both the social vulnerability index (SVI) and the area deprivation index (ADI). The SVI and the ADI were obtained at the state level, with an SVI ≥ 75th percentile or an ADI ≥ 80th percentile considered severely disadvantaged. We summarized infection control assessments at SNFs with outbreaks using a qualitative analysis.

Results:

A total of 140 individuals tested positive for C. auris in the study period in Maryland; 46 (33%) had a positive clinical culture. Sixty (43%) were associated with a SNF, 37 (26%) were ventilated, and 87 (62%) had a documented wound. Separate facility-level neighborhood analysis showed SNFs with likely C. auris transmission were disproportionately located in neighborhoods in the top quartile of deprivation by the SVI, characterized by low socioeconomic status and high proportion of racial/ethnic minorities. Multiple infection control deficiencies were noted at these SNFs.

Conclusion:

Neighborhood socioeconomic vulnerability may contribute to the emergence and transmission of C. auris in a community.
Molecular genetic biodiversity assessment of the Wallis Island sponge fauna in the Tropical Pacific
Authors: Galitz Adrian , Ekins Merrick , Reddy Maggie M. , Folcher Eric , Dumas Mahé , Butscher John , Thomas Olivier P. , Voigt Oliver , Wörheide Gert , Petek Sylvain , Erpenbeck Dirk
Published: July 2024

Polynesia is a hotspot for marine biodiversity in the South Pacific Ocean, yet the distribution of many invertebrate taxa in this region is still often poorly assessed. Information on the diversity and phylogeography of sponges in particular remains limited in spite of their importance for coral reef ecosystems. Recent expeditions to the island group of Wallis and Futuna enabled the first larger-scale assessment of the Wallis Island sponge fauna, resulting in the molecular identification of 82 unique Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) from 339 sponge samples based on 28S C-region rDNA and CO1 mtDNA data. Faunal comparisons with both adjacent archipelagos and more distant Indo-Pacific regions were predominantly based on the MOTUs obtained from Wallis Island ecoregions, and suggest high levels of endemism of sponges in Wallis and Futuna, corroborating previous data on the biodiversity of sponges and other marine phyla in the South Pacific. The results of this molecular taxonomic survey of the Wallis and Futuna sponge fauna aim to lay solid foundations for a sustainable ‘Blue Economy’ in Wallis and Futuna for the conservation of their local coral reefs.
Closing the Loops on Southern Ocean Dynamics: From the Circumpolar Current to Ice Shelves and From Bottom Mixing to Surface Waves
Authors: Bennetts Luke G. , Shakespeare Callum J. , Vreugdenhil Catherine A. , Foppert Annie , Gayen Bishakhdatta , Meyer Amelie , Morrison Adele K. , Padman Laurie , Phillips Helen E. , Stevens Craig L. , Toffoli Alessandro , Constantinou Navid C. , Cusack Jesse M. , Cyriac Ajitha , Doddridge Edward W. , England Matthew H. , Evans D. Gwyn , Heil Petra , Hogg Andrew McC. , Holmes Ryan M. , Huneke Wilma G. C. , Jones Nicole L. , Keating Shane R. , Kiss Andrew E. , Kraitzman Noa , Malyarenko Alena , McConnochie Craig D. , Meucci Alberto , Montiel Fabien , Neme Julia , Nikurashin Maxim , Patel Ramkrushnbhai S. , Peng Jen‐Ping , Rayson Matthew , Rosevear Madelaine G. , Sohail Taimoor , Spence Paul , Stanley Geoffrey J.
Published: July 2024

A holistic review is given of the Southern Ocean dynamic system, in the context of the crucial role it plays in the global climate and the profound changes it is experiencing. The review focuses on connections between different components of the Southern Ocean dynamic system, drawing together contemporary perspectives from different research communities, with the objective of closing loops in our understanding of the complex network of feedbacks in the overall system. The review is targeted at researchers in Southern Ocean physical science with the ambition of broadening their knowledge beyond their specific field, and aims at facilitating better‐informed interdisciplinary collaborations. For the purposes of this review, the Southern Ocean dynamic system is divided into four main components: large‐scale circulation; cryosphere; turbulence; and gravity waves. Overviews are given of the key dynamical phenomena for each component, before describing the linkages between the components. The reviews are complemented by an overview of observed Southern Ocean trends and future climate projections. Priority research areas are identified to close remaining loops in our understanding of the Southern Ocean system.
A Comparison of Diagnostics for AMOC Heat Transport Applied to the CESM Large Ensemble
Authors: Jones C Spencer , Jiang Scout , Abernathey Ryan P.
Published: July 2024

Atlantic time‐mean heat transport is northward at all latitudes and exhibits strong multidecadal variability between about 30°N and 55°N. Atlantic heat transport variability influences many aspects of the climate system, including regional surface temperatures, subpolar heat content, Arctic sea‐ice concentration and tropical precipitation patterns. Atlantic heat transport and heat transport variability are commonly partitioned into two components: the heat transport by the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and the heat transport by the gyres. In this paper we compare four different methods for performing this partition, and we apply these methods to the Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble at 34°N, 26°N and 5°S. We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each method. The four methods all give significantly different estimates for the proportion of the time‐mean heat transport performed by AMOC. One of these methods is a new physically‐motivated method based on the pathway of the northward‐flowing part of AMOC. This paper presents a preliminary version of our method that works only when the AMOC follows the western boundary of the basin. All the methods agree that at 26°N, 80%–100% of heat transport variability at 2–10 years timescales is performed by AMOC, but there is more disagreement between methods in attributing multidecadal variability, with some methods showing a compensation between the AMOC and gyre heat transport variability.
Shear Bands Triggered by Solitary Porosity Waves in Deforming Fluid‐Saturated Porous Media
Authors: Alkhimenkov Yury , Khakimova Lyudmila , Podladchikov Yury
Published: July 2024

The interplay between compaction‐driven fluid flow and plastic yielding within porous media is investigated through numerical modeling. We establish a framework for understanding the dynamics of fluid flow in deforming porous materials that corresponds to the equations describing solitary porosity wave propagation. A concise derivation of the coupled fluid flow and poro‐viscoelastoplastic matrix behavior is presented, revealing a connection to Biot's equations of poroelasticity and Gassmann's theory in the elastic limit. Our findings demonstrate that fluid overpressure resulting from channelized fluid flow initiates the formation of new shear zones. Through three‐dimensional simulations, we observe that the newly formed shear zones exhibit a parabolic shape. Furthermore, plasticity exerts a significant influence on both the velocity of fluid flow and the shape of fluid channels. Importantly, our study highlights the potential of spontaneous channeling of porous fluids to trigger seismic events by activating both new and pre‐existing faults.
Indication for Biases in Dry Intrusions and the Marine Boundary Layer Over the Azores in ECMWF Short‐Term Forecasts and Analyses
Authors: Schäfler A. , Krüger K. , Oertel A. , Quinting J. F. , Raveh‐Rubin S.
Published: July 2024

The model representation of dry intrusions (DIs) and the marine boundary layer (MBL) is analyzed in the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Integrated Forecasting System (IFS). For this purpose, a DI classification at the Azores is combined with observation, short‐term background forecast and analysis data from the IFS data assimilation system. The background exhibits a cold bias in the descending DI, which is possibly related to a cold bias in the MBL below through vertical mixing. At the surface, simulated wind speeds are underestimated and directions are veered compared to the observations. The errors are reduced in the analysis except for near‐surface wind and humidity biases. We hypothesize that these biases are connected through underestimated surface latent heat fluxes. Such persistent biases potentially influence local weather and midlatitude weather evolution as cyclones are supplied with moisture from the cold sector influenced by DIs.
CMIP6 Models Underestimate Rainfall Trend on South Asian Monsoon Edge Tied to Middle East Warming
Authors: Li Baosheng , Murtugudde Raghu
Published: July 2024

In recent decades, an increase in rainfall has been observed on the northwestern edge of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM; NWEISM). However, no studies have focused on model performances over NWEISM, which calls for an urgent evaluation of models. Here, we utilize historical simulations from 24 CMIP6 models to demonstrate that current models tend to underestimate the observed increasing rainfall over NWEISM, with only ∼30% of the observed intensity. The models broadly capture the spring Middle East land warming, which is the main driver of increased rainfall over NWEISM. Unfortunately, most models fail to reproduce the associated significant decrease in sea level pressure over the surrounding landmasses. This deficiency results in an ineffective trigger of cross‐equatorial southwesterly winds, impeding the accurate simulation of the poleward shift of the summer low‐level jet (LLJ). Consequently, it leads to a weaker link from the Middle East warming to rainfall enhancement over NWEISM.
Direct Measurements of Dust Settling Velocity Under Low‐Density Atmospheres Using Time‐Resolved Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Alvarez Carlos A. , Gunn Andrew , Swann Christy , Trimble Sarah M. , Ewing Ryan C. , Lapôtre Mathieu G. A.
Published: July 2024

Dust dynamics influence planetary atmospheres. However, the settling velocity of dust—and thus its residence time in the atmosphere—is often mispredicted. Challenging, indirect experiments involving few ideal particles revealed that dust settling velocity deviates from Stokes' law under rarefied atmospheres. While useful, such experiments are inadequate to simulate more complex scenarios, including variable particles sizes and shapes. Here, we present direct measurements of settling velocity for spherical particles under Earth‐to‐Mars atmospheric pressures using time‐resolved particle image velocimetry (TR‐PIV), and validate their robustness with existing models. Our results demonstrate that TR‐PIV provides a relatively simple approach to quantifying dust settling velocity from direct observations of over 10,000 particles, enabling systematic investigations of dust settling under realistic scenarios. Such experiments will have significant implications for our understanding of Mars' past, present, and future ‐ from providing a tool to decipher its sedimentary record to enhancing predictive capabilities of atmospheric models.
Modeling Ion Transport in the Upper Ionosphere of Mars: Exploring the Effect of Crustal Magnetic Fields
Authors: Renzaglia A. R. , Cravens T. E. , Hamil O.
Published: July 2024

Statistically ion and electron densities are enhanced above strong crustal magnetic field regions according to measurements made by the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft. Plasma created by ionization of neutrals in the lower ionosphere (where chemistry dominates) flows upward and becomes trapped on closed magnetic field loops. Enhanced ion density in the ionosphere (particularly O2+) is associated with enhanced photochemical escape of atomic oxygen. This paper presents a quasi‐1D multi‐fluid time‐dependent model of the Martian ionosphere for nine ion species. Ionospheric temperatures are adopted but ion densities and velocities (along the field lines) are determined using a numerical solution of the continuity and momentum equations. Diurnal effects are explored by varying photoionization rates. Three crustal field cases are considered: a low altitude closed, a high altitude closed, and a high altitude open field line. Additionally, a case with no crustal field is modeled to provide a comparison between regions with and without crustal fields in the upper Martian ionosphere. Model results show higher ion and electron densities in the crustal field cases than in the purely induced field case. Additionally, we find that densities are generally higher on the closed field lines than on the open field lines, and ion velocities are generally up the field lines, away from the Martian surface. We also find that velocities are larger on the open field line case. We compare modeled density results to MAVEN data and find general agreement. Implications for atmospheric escape, particularly photochemical escape of O, are also discussed.
Effect of Polar Cap Patches on the High‐Latitude Upper Thermospheric Winds
Authors: Cai L. , Aikio A. , Oyama S. , Ivchenko N. , Vanhamäki H. , Virtanen I. , Buchert S. , Mekuriaw M. L. , Zhang Y.
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on the poorly known effect of polar cap patches (PCPs) on the ion‐neutral coupling in the F‐region. The PCPs were identified by total electron content measurements from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and the ionospheric parameters from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program spacecraft. The EISCAT incoherent scatter radars on Svalbard and at Tromsø, Norway observed that PCPs entered the nightside auroral oval from the polar cap and became plasma blobs. The ionospheric convection further transported the plasma blobs to the duskside. Simultaneously, long‐lasting strong upper thermospheric winds were detected in the duskside auroral oval by a Fabry‐Perot Interferometer (FPI) at Tromsø and in the polar cap by the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment satellite. Using EISCAT ion velocities and plasma parameters as well as FPI winds, the ion drag acting on neutrals and the time constant for the ion drag could be estimated. Due to the arrival of PCPs/blobs and the accompanied increase in the F‐region electron densities, the ion drag is enhanced between about 220 and 500 km altitudes. At the F peak altitudes near 300 km, the median ion drag acceleration affecting neutrals more than doubled and the associated median e‐folding time decreased from 4.4 to 2 hr. The strong neutral wind was found to be driven primarily by the ion drag force due to large‐scale ionospheric convection. Our results provide a new insight into ionosphere‐thermosphere coupling in the presence of PCPs/blobs.
Statistical Distribution of the Peak Frequency of ECH Waves in the Outer Magnetosphere From Magnetospheric Multiscale Satellite Observations
Authors: Yu Jiang , Wang Jing , Chen Zuzheng , Ren Aojun , Liu Xiaoman , Liu Nigang , Li Liuyuan , Cui Jun , Cao Jinbin
Published: July 2024

Electron cyclotron harmonic (ECH) waves are electrostatic emissions with frequencies between the harmonics of the electron gyrofrequencies. Their frequency properties provide clues for understanding their generation and are keys to evaluating their scattering efficiency. Based on Magnetospheric Multiscale satellite observations, we explored the statistical frequency properties of first‐harmonic band ECH waves in the outer magnetosphere. The frequencies at the peak power of ECH waves are found to be day‐night and dawn‐dusk asymmetries, with higher values in the regions from dawn to post‐noon, and these asymmetries are more evident during weaker geomagnetic activity. Furthermore, the frequencies at the peak power of ECH waves decrease gradually with increasing |MLAT| and are positively correlated with their amplitudes at each magnetic local time or |MLAT|. Information on the frequency properties of ECH waves presented in this study can be crucial for future modeling of their contributions to magnetospheric electron dynamics.
Effects of high-intensity interval training versus moderate-intensity continuous training on vascular function among individuals with overweight and obesity—a systematic review
Authors: K B Shishira , Vaishali K. , Kadavigere Rajagopal , Sukumar Suresh , K N Shivashankara , Pullinger Samuel A. , Bommasamudram Tulasiram
Published: July 2024

Background

The study aimed to investigate and systematically review the evidence relating to the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) versus moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on vascular function such as arterial diameter, arterial stiffness, pulse wave velocity, blood flow, etc. in individuals with overweight and obesity.

Methods

The entire content of PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, SPORT Discus® (via EBSCO host), CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched. Only experimental research studies conducted in adult participants aged ≥18 years, published in English before January 2023 were included.

Results

A total of 5397 studies were reviewed for the title and abstract with 11 studies being included for data extraction. The review resulted in a total of 346 individuals with overweight and obesity with body mass index (BMI) ranging between 25–36 kg/m2. HIIT and MICT intensities resulted in 85%–95% and 60%–70% maximal heart rate (MHR) respectively. Seven out of 11 studies showed some concerns about the overall risk of bias. Six of 11 studies reported improving vascular function following HIIT than MICT.

Conclusion

HIIT is a more effective and time-efficient exercise for enhancing vascular functions in individuals with overweight and obesity, leading to improvements in flow-mediated dilation by 3.9% and arterial diameter by 4.8%, compared to MICT.
Mediating and moderating effects of plasma proteomic biomarkers on the association between poor oral health problems and brain white matter microstructural integrity: the UK Biobank study
Authors: Beydoun May A. , Beydoun Hind A. , Hu Yi-Han , Li Zhiguang , Georgescu Michael F. , Noren Hooten Nicole , Bouhrara Mustapha , Weiss Jordan , Launer Lenore J. , Evans Michele K. , Zonderman Alan B.
Published: July 2024

The plasma proteome can mediate associations between periodontal disease (Pd) and brain white matter integrity (WMI). We screened 5089 UK Biobank participants aged 40–70 years for poor oral health problems (POHP). We examined the association between POHP and WMI (fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), Intracellular Volume Fraction (ICVF), Isotropic Volume Fraction (ISOVF) and Orientation Diffusion (OD)), decomposing the total effect through the plasma proteome of 1463 proteins into pure mediation, pure interaction, neither, while adjusting for socio-demographic and cardiovascular health factors. Similarly, structural equations modeling (SEM) was conducted. POHP was more prevalent among men (12.3% vs. 9.6%), and was associated with lower WMI on most metrics, in a sex-specific manner. Of 15 proteins strongly associated with POHP, growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) and WAP four-disulfide core domain 2 (WFDC2; also known as human epididymis protein 4; HE4) were consistent mediators. Both proteins mediated 7–8% of total POHP effect on FAmean. SEM yielded significant total effects for FAmean, MDmean and ISOVFmean in full models, with %mediated by common latent factor (GDF15 and WFDC2) ranging between 13% (FAmean) and 19% (ISOVFmean). For FA, mediation by this common factor was found for 16 of 49 tract-specific and global mean metrics. Protein metabolism, immune system, and signal transduction were the most common pathways for mediational effects. POHP was associated with poorer WMI, which was partially mediated by GDF15 and WFDC2.
Trim21-mediated CCT2 ubiquitination suppresses malignant progression and promotes CD4+T cell activation in breast cancer
Authors: Chen Xi , Ma Chenao , Li Yaming , Liang Yiran , Chen Tong , Han Dianwen , Luo Dan , Zhang Ning , Zhao Wenjing , Wang Lijuan , Chen Bing , Guo Hong , Yang Qifeng
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer remains a significant global health challenge, and its mechanisms of progression and metastasis are still not fully understood. In this study, analysis of TCGA and GEO datasets revealed a significant increase in CCT2 expression in breast cancer tissues, which was associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. Functional analysis revealed that CCT2 promoted breast cancer growth and metastasis through activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Additionally, the E3 ubiquitin ligase Trim21 facilitated CCT2 ubiquitination and degradation, significantly reversing the protumor effects of CCT2. Most interestingly, we discovered that exosomal CCT2 derived from breast cancer cells suppressed the activation and proinflammatory cytokine secretion of CD4+ T cell. Mechanistically, exosomal CCT2 constrained Ca2+-NFAT1 signaling, thereby reducing CD40L expression on CD4+ T cell. These findings highlight CCT2 upregulation as a potential driver of breast cancer progression and immune evasion. Our study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer progression, suggesting that CCT2 is a promising therapeutic target and prognostic predictor for breast cancer.
Myeloid PTEN loss affects the therapeutic response by promoting stress granule assembly and impairing phagocytosis by macrophages in breast cancer
Authors: Li Yan , Xu Chao , Qian Xiaojun , Wang Gang , Han Chaoqiang , Hua Hui , Dong Menghao , Chen Jian , Yu Haiyang , Zhang Rutong , Feng Xiaoxi , Yang Zhenye , Pan Yueyin
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer (BRCA) has become the most common type of cancer in women. Improving the therapeutic response remains a challenge. Phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) is a classic tumour suppressor with emerging new functions discovered in recent years, and myeloid PTEN loss has been reported to impair antitumour immunity. In this study, we revealed a novel mechanism by which myeloid PTEN potentially affects antitumour immunity in BRCA. We detected accelerated stress granule (SG) assembly under oxidative stress in PTEN-deficient bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) through the EGR1-promoted upregulation of TIAL1 transcription. PI3K/AKT/mTOR (PAM) pathway activation also promoted SG formation. ATP consumption during SG assembly in BMDMs impaired the phagocytic ability of 4T1 cells, potentially contributing to the disruption of antitumour immunity. In a BRCA neoadjuvant cohort, we observed a poorer response in myeloid PTENlow patients with G3BP1 aggregating as SGs in CD68+ cells, a finding that was consistent with the observation in our study that PTEN-deficient macrophages tended to more readily assemble SGs with impaired phagocytosis. Our results revealed the unconventional impact of SGs on BMDMs and might provide new perspectives on drug resistance and therapeutic strategies for the treatment of BRCA patients.
Structural basis of antagonist selectivity in endothelin receptors
Authors: Hou Junyi , Liu Shenhui , Zhang Xiaodan , Tu Guowei , Wu Lijie , Zhang Yijie , Yang Hao , Li Xiangcheng , Liu Junlin , Jiang Longquan , Tan Qiwen , Bai Fang , Liu Zhijie , Miao Changhong , Hua Tian , Luo Zhe
Published: July 2024

Endothelins and their receptors, ETA and ETB, play vital roles in maintaining vascular homeostasis. Therapeutically targeting endothelin receptors, particularly through ETA antagonists, has shown efficacy in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and other cardiovascular- and renal-related diseases. Here we present cryo-electron microscopy structures of ETA in complex with two PAH drugs, macitentan and ambrisentan, along with zibotentan, a selective ETA antagonist, respectively. Notably, a specialized anti-ETA antibody facilitated the structural elucidation. These structures, together with the active-state structures of ET-1-bound ETA and ETB, and the agonist BQ3020-bound ETB, in complex with Gq, unveil the molecular basis of agonist/antagonist binding modes in endothelin receptors. Key residues that confer antagonist selectivity to endothelin receptors were identified along with the activation mechanism of ETA. Furthermore, our results suggest that ECL2 in ETA can serve as an epitope for antibody-mediated receptor antagonism. Collectively, these insights establish a robust theoretical framework for the rational design of small-molecule drugs and antibodies with selective activity against endothelin receptors.
mTORC2-driven chromatin cGAS mediates chemoresistance through epigenetic reprogramming in colorectal cancer
Authors: Lv Guoqing , Wang Qian , Lin Lin , Ye Qiao , Li Xi , Zhou Qian , Kong Xiangzhen , Deng Hongxia , You Fuping , Chen Hebing , Wu Song , Yuan Lin
Published: July 2024

Cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS), a cytosolic DNA sensor that initiates a STING-dependent innate immune response, binds tightly to chromatin, where its catalytic activity is inhibited; however, mechanisms underlying cGAS recruitment to chromatin and functions of chromatin-bound cGAS (ccGAS) remain unclear. Here we show that mTORC2-mediated phosphorylation of human cGAS serine 37 promotes its chromatin localization in colorectal cancer cells, regulating cell growth and drug resistance independently of STING. We discovered that ccGAS recruits the SWI/SNF complex at specific chromatin regions, modifying expression of genes linked to glutaminolysis and DNA replication. Although ccGAS depletion inhibited cell growth, it induced chemoresistance to fluorouracil treatment in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, blocking kidney-type glutaminase, a downstream ccGAS target, overcame chemoresistance caused by ccGAS loss. Thus, ccGAS coordinates colorectal cancer plasticity and acquired chemoresistance through epigenetic patterning. Targeting both mTORC2–ccGAS and glutaminase provides a promising strategy to eliminate quiescent resistant cancer cells.
Co-transcriptional production of programmable RNA condensates and synthetic organelles
Authors: Fabrini Giacomo , Farag Nada , Nuccio Sabrina Pia , Li Shiyi , Stewart Jaimie Marie , Tang Anli A. , McCoy Reece , Owens Róisín M. , Rothemund Paul W. K. , Franco Elisa , Di Antonio Marco , Di Michele Lorenzo
Published: July 2024

Condensation of RNA and proteins is central to cellular functions, and the ability to program it would be valuable in synthetic biology and synthetic cell science. Here we introduce a modular platform for engineering synthetic RNA condensates from tailor-made, branched RNA nanostructures that fold and assemble co-transcriptionally. Up to three orthogonal condensates can form simultaneously and selectively accumulate fluorophores through embedded fluorescent light-up aptamers. The RNA condensates can be expressed within synthetic cells to produce membrane-less organelles with a controlled number and relative size, and showing the ability to capture proteins using selective protein-binding aptamers. The affinity between otherwise orthogonal nanostructures can be modulated by introducing dedicated linker constructs, enabling the production of bi-phasic RNA condensates with a prescribed degree of interphase mixing and diverse morphologies. The in situ expression of programmable RNA condensates could underpin the spatial organization of functionalities in both biological and synthetic cells.
Ustekinumab for type 1 diabetes in adolescents: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized phase 2 trial
Authors: Tatovic Danijela , Marwaha Ashish , Taylor Peter , Hanna Stephanie J. , Carter Kym , Cheung W. Y. , Luzio Steve , Dunseath Gareth , Hutchings Hayley A. , Holland Gail , Hiles Steve , Fegan Greg , Williams Evangelia , Yang Jennie H. M. , Domingo-Vila Clara , Pollock Emily , Wadud Muntaha , Ward-Hartstonge Kirsten , Marques-Jones Susie , Bowen-Morris Jane , Stenson Rachel , Levings Megan K. , Gregory John W. , Tree Timothy I. M. , Dayan Colin ,   USTEKID Study Group, Gevers Evelien , Kanumakala Shankar , Nair Sunil , Gardner Chris , Ajzensztejn Michal , Wei Christina , Mouditis Chris , Campbell Fiona , Greening James , Webb Emma , Chen Mimi , Amin Rakesh , White Billi , Shetty Ambika , Bidder Chris , Conway Nicholas , Mayo Amalia , Christakou Eleni , Sychowska Kamila , Shahrabi Yasaman , Robinson Maximilian , Ahmed Simi , Dutz Jan , Cook Laura
Published: July 2024

Immunotherapy targeting the autoimmune process in type 1 diabetes (T1D) can delay the loss of β-cells but needs to have minimal adverse effects to be an adjunct to insulin in the management of T1D. Ustekinumab binds to the shared p40 subunit of interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, targeting development of T helper 1 cells and T helper 17 cells (TH1 and TH17 cells) implicated in the pathogenesis of T1D. We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial of ustekinumab in 72 adolescents aged 12–18 years with recent-onset T1D. Treatment was well tolerated with no increase in adverse events. At 12 months, β-cell function, measured by stimulated C-peptide, was 49% higher in the intervention group (P = 0.02), meeting the prespecified primary outcome. Preservation of C-peptide correlated with the reduction of T helper cells co-secreting IL-17A and interferon-γ (TH17.1 cells, P = 0.04) and, in particular, with the reduction in a subset of TH17.1 cells co-expressing IL-2 and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (IL-2+ GM-CSF+ TH17.1 cells, P = 0.04). A significant fall in β-cell-targeted (proinsulin-specific) IL-17A-secreting T cells was also seen (P = 0.0003). Although exploratory, our data suggest a role for an activated subset of TH17.1 cells in T1D that can be targeted with minimal adverse effects to reduce C-peptide loss, which requires confirmation in a larger study. (International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Registry: ISRCTN 14274380).