bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change in Microstructure, Mechanical Strength, Fire Resistance, and Radiation Attenuation Properties of Gypsum Plaster with Boric Acid
Authors: Arnavutoglu Emre , Arbag Huseyin , Koyuncu Dilsad Dolunay Eslek
Published: June 2024

In this study, the effect of boric acid addition on the microstructure of gypsum plaster was investigated to determine an environmentally friendly gypsum additive that may enhance mechanical strength, fire resistance, and X-ray radiation attenuation properties. The mechanical strengths of bare gypsum and boric acid-added (0–0.5% by weight with respect to gypsum amount) gypsum plasters were evaluated in terms of compressive and bending strengths. The effects of the different addition procedures of boric acid (0.1% by wt.) on the fire resistance of the gypsum plasterboard were also evaluated. X-ray radiation attenuation properties of boric acid-added (0.1% by wt.) gypsum plasterboard were investigated as well. XRD, ATR-FTIR, Helium pycnometer, N2 adsorption–desorption, and SEM analysis were performed to determine the microstructural properties of gypsum plaster. XRD and ATR-FTIR analysis revealed that boric acid did not change the calcium sulfate dihydrate structure of gypsum plaster. Whereas, Helium pycnometer, N2 adsorption–desorption, and SEM analysis showed that the physical properties of gypsum changed with an increase in pore volume, skeletal density, and particle size after boric acid addition. The increase in the pore volume and particle size decreased the mechanical strength of gypsum. However, boric acid addition on the gypsum plaster plate, especially using the spraying method, enhanced the fire resistance of gypsum. Additionally, boric acid slightly enhanced the X-ray radiation attenuation properties (0.7%) of the gypsum plasterboard.
The governance models vs. the development courses of the mining sector: cases of Indonesia and the Philippines
Authors: Liao Janet Xuanli , Zhang Weibo
Published: June 2024

Indonesia and the Philippines have shared similar history, geological condition, and economic structure. Located in Southeast Asia, both countries have rich reserves of metallic minerals. They have also experienced changes of political system in the post-WWII era, from an authoritarian regime to a democracy, and have both pursued a neoliberal economic policy since the 1980s.​ However, the shared commonalities have not led to a similar development path of the mining industry in the two countries. Our research was aimed to reveal the key factors that caused the divergence of the mining development in Indonesia and the Philippines, from three main aspects: the evolution of the political system, the economic and mining policies adopted by the two governments, and the role of the mining regulations. The main question asked was that “Why did the similar political systems and economic policy fail to create a convergent path for mining development in the two neighbors?” The research has proved the validity of our hypothesis: the distinct political objectives and economic circumstances have impacted the implementation of the Neoliberal economic policy in the two countries. To a less extent, the scale of the mining industry in their respective economies and the different features of their respective colonial past were partially responsible as well.
Boron adsorption studies of poly(styrene-glycidyl methacrylate) latex: effect of modification agents
Authors: Tuncer Cansel , Işık Meliha
Published: June 2024

Poly(styrene-glycidyl methacrylate) (PSGMA) latex was synthesized by emulsion polymerization method. PSGMA latex was modified with N-methyl-d-glucamine (NMDG), 1,2-bis(3-aminopropylamino)ethane (BAPE), N-(2-hydroxyethyl)ethylenediamine (HEA), and N,N'-dimethylethylenediamine (NMEA). The presence of N amount varying between 2.1 and 4.4% in the results of elemental analysis showed that the modification was successful. Boron adsorption studies were carried out using these modified latexes. The study was carried out using the curcumin method by UV–vis spectrophotometry. For the most effective adsorption process, at pH value of 9, the boron concentration was 10 ppm and the contact time was 60 min. It was found that latex modified with NMDG had a higher adsorption capacity (0.195 mmol/g) than other modified latexes. Particle sizes were determined by dynamic light scattering spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. The particle diameter of PSGMA latex was found to be approximately 140 nm in SEM analysis and the particles were almost monodisperse. After PSGMA latex was modified with NMDG, BAPE, HEA, and NMEA agents and boron adsorption was performed, it was observed that the particle diameters increased to approximately 170, 270, 220, and 260 nm, respectively. An elemental analyzer was used to determine the %N of the structures. The %B2O3 of the structures was determined with a thermogravimetric analyzer. While thermal analysis studies showed that organic components were completely removed from the structure at 700 °C, residues ranging from 4.8 to 10.4% (%B2O3) were found in boron adsorption polymers. The %B amounts were determined with an inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy device. It was observed that the amount of adsorbed boron varied between 0.42 and 0.95%, and the highest amount of %B belonged to latex modified with NMDG due to its very simple structure and the location of the –OH groups.

Graphical Abstract
Impact of the Relational, Built, Community, and Policy/Political Environments on Immigrant Child Health: A Narrative Review
Authors: Zuckerman Anna , Nagin Perry , Ibrahim Anisa , Green Andrea E. , Dawson-Hahn Elizabeth E.
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

We summarize recent evidence describing how the health of first-generation immigrant children (FGIC) is influenced by the relational, built, community, and policy/political environments after migration to the United States.

Recent Findings

FGIC health is promoted and strengthened by family values, cultural ties, and positive peer relationships, while prior trauma, stressors in family relationships and discrimination detract from physical and mental health. While individual circumstances vary, some FGIC experience substandard built environments associated with poverty, including housing insecurity, food insecurity, and toxin exposures. Within community environments, FGIC receive support from their cultural communities, but may face challenges in navigating complex education and health systems. The policy/political environment often negatively impacts FGIC’s mental health and their ability to access medical and social services.

Healthcare provider awareness about health promoting and detracting factors for FGIC across multiple environments after migration can help inform comprehensive, trauma-informed care.
Update on Coagulation Monitoring in Liver Transplantation
Authors: Thiele Eryn L. , Forkin Katherine T.
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

This article provides an update on coagulation monitoring for patients undergoing liver transplantation and focuses on emerging data from the newest generation of viscoelastic testing devices.

Recent Findings

New generation, cartridge-based viscoelastic testing (VET) devices (TEG 6s, ROTEM sigma, Quantra with QStat cartridge) offer less inter-operator variability with greater ease of use and application at the point of care. Data on use of these cartridge-based VET devices in liver transplantation is limited.

The coagulopathy of liver disease affects both procoagulant and anticoagulant factors, resulting in a ‘rebalanced hemostasis’. The phases of liver transplantation present unique and dynamic challenges to blood management in these patients. VET is the preferred method of coagulation monitoring in liver transplantation with demonstrated benefits in decreased blood transfusion requirements, blood loss, and cost. Newer cartridge-based VET technologies have purported improvements over older technologies. More thorough investigation is needed in the use of these newer VET devices in liver transplantation.
Understanding watershed sources of pollution in Vinh Long Province, Vietnamese Mekong Delta
Authors: Bao Vo Quoc , Van Toan Pham , Van Tuyen Nguyen , Hoang Hong Minh , Du Le Van , Downes Nigel K. , Tri Van Pham Dang
Published: June 2024

We explore point source (PS) and non-point source (NPS) pollution impacts on surface water quality in Vinh Long Province, Vietnam. We used data from 60 surface water quality monitoring stations across dry, transitional, and wet seasons from 2017 to 2021, in addition to sampling data collected from 12 wastewater outlets from June to October 2021 to determine the sources of pollution loads. Surface water quality was assessed using both the water quality index (WQI) and the Vietnamese standards QCVN 08:2015, whilst cluster analysis (CA) and principal components analysis (PCA) were used to evaluate spatial variation and key influencing factors. We observed seasonal variation in surface water quality, with a decline in quality during the rainy season. Moreover, the water quality parameters such as chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) frequently exceeded the QCVN 08:2015 standard. Across, the different monitoring fixed points and seasons, COD levels were found to range from 8.94 to 15.14 mg/L, while TN levels varied between 0.24 and 0.53 mg/L. The cluster analysis categorized the monitoring fixed points into three groups, based on their water quality parameters, while PCA identified four principal components that explain 69% of the variance, distinguishing between pollution sources and seasonal factors. Our findings emphasize that poor water quality in many areas is affected by non-point source pollution, underscoring the need for watershed and land management. The results and applied methodologies provide insights for watershed management, policy development, and adaptation, applicable to regions facing similar environmental challenges.
Impacts of climate change on mangrove subsistence fisheries: a global review
Authors: Alberto Roann P. , Teano Judith A. , Paz-Alberto Annie Melinda , Tangonan Mark Anthony B. , Villamar Hazel Jade E. , Clement Sarah , Montagnes David J. S. , Morse Andrew P.
Published: June 2024

Climate change will impact coastal ecosystems, threatening subsistence fisheries including those in mangrove forests. Despite their global contributions and roles in nutrition and cultural identity, mangrove subsistence fisheries are poorly studied. Here, we offer a foundation for improving the management of mangrove subsistence fisheries to deal with the impending effects of climate change. This multidisciplinary review—drawing on organismal biology, ecology, fisheries, and social science—focuses on the climate impacts relevant to mangrove ecosystems: heat waves, low-category, and high-category typhoons. First, we provide an overview of the mangroves, their harvestable stocks (fish, crustaceans, molluscs), and the fishers, offering an understanding of how they may be affected by relevant environmental variables; i.e., shifts in temperature, salinity, oxygen, flooding, and sediments. Then, we examine the potential effects of climate change on mangrove stocks and fishers, indicating the scope of impending changes. By combining the above information, we develop a simple model that forecasts the number of “fishing-days” lost by fishers due to climate change over the next decade (between 11 and 21 days will be lost per year per fisher). This indicates which aspects of climate change will have the greatest impacts on stocks and fishers. We found that high-category typhoons had more impacts than heat waves, which in turn had a greater impact than low-category typhoons). Finally, recognising gaps in our knowledge and understanding, we offer recommendations for approaches for future work to improve our predictions.
The First Reported Foodborne Botulism Outbreak in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Lessons Learned
Authors: Gul Dar Nadeem , Alfaraj Sarah H. , Alboqmy Khulood Naser , Khanum Nazia , Alshakrah Faleh , Abdallah Hassan , Badawi Mohammad Hosni , Alharbi Ohoud Mohammed , Alshiekh Khadijh Ahmed , Alsallum Abdullah M , Shrahili Ahmed Hassan , Zeidan Zeidan A , Abdallah Zaki , Majrashi Ahmed Ali , Memish Ziad A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Botulism has not been previously reported in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This rare and sometimes fatal foodborne illness is caused by neurotoxins and primarily results from consuming home-canned fruits, vegetables, dairy, and seafood products & it can lead to paralysis.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical features of patients who developed botulism in Riyadh in 2024 after consuming mayonnaise from a well-known local chain of restaurants in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records and interviewed patients or their attendants for all hospitalized cases of foodborne botulism at Riyadh First Health Cluster. For each patient, a standard case report form was completed, containing information on demographics, clinical aspects, botulinum test results, and type of exposure. Descriptive statistics were applied to assess the data. During the outbreak, nineteen patients with foodborne diseases were admitted to Riyadh First Health Cluster Hospitals. Following thorough physical examinations, botulism was suspected in each case.

Results

Eight of the 19 suspected foodborne illness patients fully satisfied the botulism case definition requirements set forth by the Saudi Arabian Public Health Authority (Weqaya). Among these eight patients, 2 (25%) were male and 6 (75%) were female, with a mean age of 23.25 ± 9.29 years (range: 12–38 years). The incubation period for our patients was 36.25 ± 26.26 h. Notable symptoms included dysphagia in all eight patients (100%), dysarthria, generalized weakness, nausea and vomiting in seven patients (88%), diplopia in four patients (50%), and stomach discomfort in three patients (38%). Of the eight cases, six required intubation, one mimicked brain death, and two were stable. The presence of Clostridium botulinum spores as the cause of the outbreak was confirmed by detecting botulinum spores in contaminated food.

Conclusion

Diplopia and dysarthria were the most common early sign of botulism. Early manifestations may include respiratory symptoms without any musculoskeletal symptoms. or nausea, vomiting and disorientation.
Dry deposition of nitric acid gas by long-term measurement above and below a forest canopy
Authors: Wu Zhaojie , Xu Mao , Sorimachi Atsuyuki , Sase Hiroyuki , Watanabe Makoto , Matsuda Kazuhide
Published: June 2024

Reactive nitrogen negatively affects terrestrial ecosystems by excessive deposition. Nitric acid gas (HNO3), a component of reactive nitrogen, is readily deposited on ground surfaces due to its high reactivity. However, there have been recent cases in which suppressed deposition fluxes, including upward fluxes, were observed above forests. As the mechanisms of HNO3 dry deposition on forest surfaces are not fully understood, the accuracy of dry deposition estimates remains uncertain. To reduce uncertainties in the estimation, we investigated dry deposition of HNO3 by 1-year measurement in a forest. We measured the vertical profiles of HNO3, nitrate, and sulfate in PM2.5 in a deciduous forest in suburban Tokyo (FM Tama). We observed their concentrations above the forest canopy (30 m) and near the forest floor (2 and 0.2 m) using the denuder/filter pack from October 2020 to September 2021. The HNO3 concentration decreased significantly from 30 to 2 m. However, the decrease in HNO3 was not as significant, and occasionally, emission profiles were produced between 2 and 0.2 m. This was likely caused by HNO3 generated by the volatilization of NH4NO3 near the forest floor, which was warmed by sunlight during daytime in both leafy and leafless periods. Conversely, HNO3 concentrations at 30 m were much higher than those at 2 m and 0.2 m, indicating that the forest acted as a sink for HNO3 from a long-term perspective. It is presumed that HNO3, generated just above the forest canopy, could cause an upward flux if a temperature difference of several degrees occurs between 25 and 20 m.
SHEA position statement on pandemic preparedness for policymakers: building a strong and resilient healthcare workforce
Authors: Banach David B. , Mathew Trini A. , Batshon Lynne Jones , Branch-Elliman Westyn , Dumyati Ghinwa , Haessler Sarah , Hsu Vincent P. , Jump Robin L. P. , Malani Anurag N. , Murthy Rekha K. , Pergam Steven A. , Shenoy Erica S. , Weber David J.
Published: June 2024

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many areas in the United States experienced healthcare personnel (HCP) shortages tied to a variety of factors. Infection prevention programs, in particular, faced increasing workload demands with little opportunity to delegate tasks to others without specific infectious diseases or infection control expertise. Shortages of clinicians providing inpatient care to critically ill patients during the early phase of the pandemic were multifactorial, largely attributed to increasing demands on hospitals to provide care to patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and furloughs.1 HCP shortages and challenges during later surges, including the Omicron variant-associated surges, were largely attributed to HCP infections and associated work restrictions during isolation periods and the need to care for family members, particularly children, with COVID-19. Additionally, the detrimental physical and mental health impact of COVID-19 on HCP has led to attrition, which further exacerbates shortages.2 Demands increased in post-acute and long-term care (PALTC) settings, which already faced critical staffing challenges difficulty with recruitment, and high rates of turnover. Although individual healthcare organizations and state and federal governments have taken actions to mitigate recurring shortages, additional work and innovation are needed to develop longer-term solutions to improve healthcare workforce resiliency. The critical role of those with specialized training in infection prevention, including healthcare epidemiologists, was well-demonstrated in pandemic preparedness and response. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need to support growth in these fields.3 This commentary outlines the need to develop the US healthcare workforce in preparation for future pandemics.
SHEA position statement on pandemic preparedness for policymakers: pandemic data collection, maintenance, and release
Authors: Branch-Elliman Westyn , Banach David B. , Batshon Lynne J. , Dumyati Ghinwa , Haessler Sarah , Hsu Vincent P. , Jump Robin L.P. , Malani Anurag N. , Mathew Trini A. , Murthy Rekha K. , Pergam Steven A. , Shenoy Erica S. , Weber David J.
Published: June 2024

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology in America (SHEA) strongly supports modernization of data collection processes and the creation of publicly available data repositories that include a wide variety of data elements and mechanisms for securely storing both cleaned and uncleaned data sets that can be curated as clinical and research needs arise. These elements can be used for clinical research and quality monitoring and to evaluate the impacts of different policies on different outcomes. Achieving these goals will require dedicated, sustained and long-term funding to support data science teams and the creation of central data repositories that include data sets that can be “linked” via a variety of different mechanisms and also data sets that include institutional and state and local policies and procedures. A team-based approach to data science is strongly encouraged and supported to achieve the goal of a sustainable, adaptable national shared data resource.
Toward a Japanese paradigm of settler-colonial urbanism?
Authors: Thornton Michael
Published: June 2024

The city of Sapporo, founded in 1869 by the Japanese government as a colonial headquarters in Hokkaido, developed as part of a global wave of settler-colonial urbanism. Like counterparts in North America and Australia, Sapporo facilitated economic, environmental and political transformations across Hokkaido that led to the displacement of Indigenous Ainu society by a soon overwhelming number of ethnically Japanese settlers. However, several historical factors distinguish Sapporo’s settler-colonial urbanism from its peers, including the long history of relations between the Ainu and Japanese; the heavy role of the Japanese state in Sapporo; and the lack of mass relocations of the Ainu to reservations far from their traditional homes.
Die Praxis der Bewegungsförderungin Baden-Württembergs KiTas
Authors: Zillober Isabella , Lorenz Lisa , Gülich Laura , Henz Gina , Bös Klaus
Published: June 2024

Zusammenfassung: Mit dem vorliegenden Beitrag soll gezeigt werden, ob in baden-württembergischen KiTas regelmäßig Bewegungsangebote gemacht werden, ob die dazu notwendige räumlich-materielle und personelle Ausstattung vorhanden ist und inwiefern die Einrichtungsmerkmale Schwerpunktsetzung, Einrichtungsgröße, Trägerschaft und Lage diese beeinflussen. 1353 KiTas in Baden-Württemberg haben im Mai 2020 über einen Fragebogen Angaben zu ihrer Bewegungsförderung gemacht. Das Verfolgen eines sport- und bewegungserzieherischen Schwerpunkts in der Einrichtung scheint die Umsetzung von Bewegung eher zu beeinflussen als objektive Merkmale wie Einrichtungsgröße, -trägerschaft und -lage, die sich nur vereinzelt zur Erklärung von Unterschieden heranziehen lassen und wenig Varianz aufklären. Die Ergebnisse zeigen flächendeckend Handlungsbedarf bei der regelmäßigen Umsetzung von Bewegungsangeboten externer Anbieter_innen auf, die über gezielte Fortbildungen und Förderung von Kooperationen, z.B. mit Sportvereinen adressiert werden können.
A Brittle Constitutive Law for Long‐Term Tectonic Modeling Based on Sub‐Critical Crack Growth
Authors: Petit Léo , Olive Jean‐Arthur , Schubnel Alexandre , Le Pourhiet Laetitia , Bhat Harsha S.
Published: June 2024

Adequate representations of brittle deformation (fracturing and faulting) are essential ingredients of long‐term tectonic simulations. Such models commonly rely on Mohr‐Coulomb plasticity coupled with prescribed softening of cohesion and/or friction with accumulated plastic strain. This approach captures fundamental properties of brittle failure, but is overly sensitive to empirical softening parameters that cannot be determined experimentally. Here we design a brittle constitutive law that captures key processes of brittle deformation, and can be straightforwardly implemented in standard geodynamic models. In our Sub‐Critically‐Altered Maxwell (SCAM) flow law, brittle failure begins with the accumulation of distributed brittle damage, which represents the sub‐critical lengthening of tensile micro‐cracks prompted by slip on pre‐existing shear defects. Damage progressively and permanently weakens the rock's elastic moduli, until cracks catastrophically interact and coalesce up to macroscopic failure. The model's micromechanical parameters can be fully calibrated against rock deformation experiments, alleviating the need for ad‐hoc softening parameters. Upon implementing the SCAM flow law in 2‐D plane strain simulations of rock deformation experiments, we find that it can produce Coulomb‐oriented shear bands which originate as damage bands. SCAM models can also be used to extrapolate rock strength from laboratory to tectonic strain rates, and nuance the use of Byerlee's law as an upper bound on lithosphere stresses. We further show that SCAM models can be upscaled to simulate tectonic deformation of a 10‐km thick brittle plate over millions of years. These features make the SCAM rheology a promising tool to further investigate the complexity of brittle behavior across scales.
Comparing Gravity Waves in a Kilometer‐Scale Run of the IFS to AIRS Satellite Observations and ERA5
Authors: Lear Emily J. , Wright Corwin J. , Hindley Neil P. , Polichtchouk Inna , Hoffmann Lars
Published: June 2024

Atmospheric gravity waves (GWs) impact the circulation and variability of the atmosphere. Sub‐grid scale GWs, which are too small to be resolved, are parameterized in weather and climate models. However, some models are now available at resolutions at which these waves become resolved and it is important to test whether these models do this correctly. In this study, a GW resolving run of the European Center for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Integrated Forecasting System (IFS), run with a 1.4 km average grid spacing (TCo7999 resolution), is compared to observations from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) instrument, on NASA's Aqua satellite, to test how well the model resolves GWs that AIRS can observe. In this analysis, nighttime data are used from the first 10 days of November 2018 over part of Asia and surrounding regions. The IFS run is resampled with AIRS's observational filter using two different methods for comparison. The ECMWF ERA5 reanalysis is also resampled as AIRS, to allow for comparison of how the high resolution IFS run resolves GWs compared to a lower resolution model that uses GW drag parametrizations. Wave properties are found in AIRS and the resampled models using a multi‐dimensional S‐Transform method. Orographic GWs can be seen in similar locations at similar times in all three data sets. However, wave amplitudes and momentum fluxes in the resampled IFS run are found to be significantly lower than in the observations. This could be a result of horizontal and vertical wavelengths in the IFS run being underestimated.
Radio Frequency Sensor: Very High Frequency Radio Frequency Lightning Detection in Geostationary Orbit
Authors: Lay Erin H. , Romero Lupe , Peterson Michael , Nag Amitabh , Behnke Sonja , Pailoor Nikhil
Published: June 2024

The Radio Frequency Sensor (RFS), a new radio frequency lightning detector, was launched into geosynchronous orbit in December 2021, and first collected data in January 2022. RFS is a specialized software‐defined radio receiver that detects, records, and reports impulsive broadband radio‐frequency (RF) signatures from lightning in the very high frequency (VHF; 30–300 MHz) range. Its vantage point from a Western hemisphere geosynchronous orbit provides unique opportunities to study evolution of RF lightning signatures over the durations of thunderstorms over the Americas and Pacific Ocean. Its overlapping view with the Geostationary Lightning Mappers (GOES‐16 & 17) enables additional comparisons between the sources of optical emissions and associated VHF emissions that were not possible with previous sensors. We find that RFS preferentially detects bright VHF signals called transionospheric pulse pairs (trans‐ionospheric pulse pairs (TIPPs)). It is estimated that more than 85% of the RFS‐detected lightning events are TIPPs. This paper presents initial results from the first year and a half of on‐orbit operation.
Temperatures of Vein Formation Associated With Plate Interface Deformation Constrained by Oxygen and Clumped Isotope Thermometry
Authors: Chen T.‐W. , Smye A. , Lloyd M. , Fisher D. , Hashimoto Y.
Published: June 2024

Tectonic mélanges, characterized by conditions reflective of modern subduction fault zones, preserve mineral veins formed through mass transfer, a mechanism influencing the slip behavior of subduction megathrusts. In this study, we apply secondary ion mass spectrometry quartz‐calcite oxygen isotope thermometry and clumped isotope thermometry to examine the temperatures of vein formations in six mélange units in the Cretaceous Shimanto belt and one mélange in the Kodiak accretionary prism. Calcite in the veins exhibits δ13CPDB values ranging from −17.2‰ to −6.8‰, indicative of a carbon source mixing with sedimentary carbonate and organic matter. δ18OSMOW values of calcite range from +11.1‰ to +17.2‰; quartz yields δ18OSMOW values of +14.9‰ to +21.7‰. Oxygen isotopic signatures in minerals reveal that most vein‐forming fluids are significantly affected by rock buffering, while some retain isotopic compositions of seawater and meteoric water. Temperature estimates, derived from both thermometers, fall within the range of 100–250°C. Notably, vein temperatures remain constant across diverse vein types and mélange units with distinct maximum temperatures. The combined temperature records and fluid isotopic compositions imply vein formations at shallower depths linked to the incorporation of seawater, meteoric water, and fluid released from early dehydration reactions. At greater depths, vein formations are associated with fluid released from clay dehydration and long‐distance fluid flow. Reduced vein formations between 250 and 350°C may correlate with a shift to fluid‐unsaturated conditions resulting from clay hydration reactions. Our study highlights potential mechanical and hydraulic variations within the thermal conditions of 100–350°C along the plate boundary driven by fluid‐mineral interactions.
What Controls Crystal Diversity and Microphysical Variability in Cirrus Clouds?
Authors: Chandrakar Kamal Kant , Morrison Hugh , Harrington Jerry Y. , Pokrifka Gwenore , Magee Nathan
Published: June 2024

Variability of ice microphysical properties like crystal size and density in cirrus clouds is important for climate through its impact on radiative forcing, but challenging to represent in models. For the first time, recent laboratory experiments of particle growth (tied to crystal morphology via deposition density) are combined with a state‐of‐the‐art Lagrangian particle‐based microphysics model in large‐eddy simulations to examine sources of microphysical variability in cirrus. Simulated particle size distributions compare well against balloon‐borne observations. Overall, microphysical variability is dominated by variability in the particles' thermodynamic histories. However, diversity in crystal morphology notably increases spatial variability of mean particle size and density, especially at mid‐levels in the cloud. Little correlation between instantaneous crystal properties and supersaturation occurs even though the modeled particle morphology is directly tied to supersaturation based on laboratory measurements. Thus, the individual thermodynamic paths of each particle, not the instantaneous conditions, control the evolution of particle properties.
Nonlinear Electron Trapping Through Cyclotron Resonance in the Formation of Chorus Subpackets
Authors: Chen Huayue , Wang Xueyi , Chen Lunjin , Zhang Xiao‐Jia , Omura Yoshiharu , Chen Rui , Hsieh Yi‐Kai , Lin Yu , Xia Zhiyang
Published: June 2024

Chorus subpackets are the wave packets with modulated amplitudes in chorus waves, commonly observed in the magnetospheres of Earth and other planets. Nonlinear wave‐particle interactions have been suggested to play an important role in subpacket formation, yet the corresponding electron dynamics remain not fully understood. In this study, we have investigated the electron trapping through cyclotron resonance with subpackets, using a self‐consistent general curvilinear plasma simulation code simulation model in dipole fields. The electron trapping period has been quantified separately through electron dynamic analysis and theoretical derivation. Both methods indicate that the electron trapping period is shorter than the subpacket period/duration. We have further established the relation between electron trapping period and subpacket period through statistical analysis using simulation and observational data. Our study demonstrates that the nonlinear electron trapping through cyclotron resonance is the dominant mechanism responsible for subpacket formation.
Correlation between newborn weight and serum BCAAs in pregnant women with diabetes
Authors: Tang Na , Liu Yajin , Yang Sa , Zhong Mengyu , Cui Dongqing , Chai Ou , Wang Yurong , Liu Yunwei , Zhang Xuejiao , Hou Zhimin , Sun Haipeng
Published: June 2024

Background

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), including leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are essential amino acids for mammals. Maternal BCAAs during pregnancy have been associated with newborn development. Meanwhile, BCAAs have been tightly linked with insulin resistance and diabetes in recent years. Diabetes in pregnancy is a common metabolic disorder. The current study aims to assess the circulating BCAA levels in pregnant women with diabetes and their relationship with neonatal development.

Methods

The serum concentrations of BCAAs and their corresponding branched-chain α-keto acids (BCKAs) catabolites in 33 pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance, 16 pregnant women with type 2 diabetes before pregnancy (PDGM), and 15 pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) were determined using a liquid chromatography system coupled to a mass spectrometer. The data were tested for normal distribution and homogeneity of variance before statistical analysis. Correlations were computed with the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

The maternal serum BCAAs and BCKAs levels during late pregnancy were higher in women with PGDM than those in healthy women. Meanwhile, the circulating BCAAs and BCKAs showed no significant changes in women with GDM compared with those in healthy pregnant women. Furthermore, the circulating BCAA and BCKA levels in women with PGDM were positively correlated with the weight of the newborn. The circulating leucine level in women with GDM was positively correlated with the weight of the newborn. BCAA and BCKA levels in healthy pregnant women showed no correlation with newborn weight.

Conclusions

The serum BCAAs in pregnant women with diabetes, which was elevated in PGDM but not GDM, were positively correlated with newborn weight. These findings highlight potential approaches for early identification of high-risk individuals and interventions to reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Phosphorylated FOXQ1, a novel substrate of JNK1, inhibits sorafenib-induced ferroptosis by activating ETHE1 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yiwei , Shao Ke , Yang Wendong , Shen Qi , Lu Mengru , Shao Zhiying , Chu Sufang , Wang Yuming , Wang Xuehao , Chen Xiaofeng , Bai Jin , Wu Xiaofeng
Published: June 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous and malignant cancer with poor overall survival. The application of sorafenib is a major breakthrough in the treatment of HCC. In our study, FOXQ1 was significantly overexpressed in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells and suppressed sorafenib-induced ferroptosis. We found that phosphorylation of FOXQ1 at serine 248 is critical for the suppression of sorafenib-induced ferroptosis. Furthermore, as the upstream phosphorylation kinase of FOXQ1, JNK1, which is activated by sorafenib, can directly phosphorylate the serine 248 site of FOXQ1. Then, the phosphorylated FOXQ1 got a high affinity for the promoter of ETHE1 and activates its transcription. Further flow cytometry results showed that ETHE1 reduced intracellular lipid peroxidation and iron levels. Collectively, our study implicated the JNK1-FOXQ1-ETHE1 axis in HCC ferroptosis induced by sorafenib, providing mechanistic insight into sensitivity to sorafenib therapy of HCC.
Planum temporale asymmetry in newborn monkeys predicts the future development of gestural communication’s handedness
Authors: Becker Yannick , Phelipon Romane , Marie Damien , Bouziane Siham , Marchetti Rebecca , Sein Julien , Velly Lionel , Renaud Luc , Cermolacce Alexia , Anton Jean-Luc , Nazarian Bruno , Coulon Olivier , Meguerditchian Adrien
Published: June 2024

The planum temporale (PT), a key language area, is specialized in the left hemisphere in prelinguistic infants and considered as a marker of the pre-wired language-ready brain. However, studies have reported a similar structural PT left-asymmetry not only in various adult non-human primates, but also in newborn baboons. Its shared functional links with language are not fully understood. Here we demonstrate using previously obtained MRI data that early detection of PT left-asymmetry among 27 newborn baboons (Papio anubis, age range of 4 days to 2 months) predicts the future development of right-hand preference for communicative gestures but not for non-communicative actions. Specifically, only newborns with a larger left-than-right PT were more likely to develop a right-handed communication once juvenile, a contralateral brain-gesture link which is maintained in a group of 70 mature baboons. This finding suggests that early PT asymmetry may be a common inherited prewiring of the primate brain for the ontogeny of ancient lateralised properties shared between monkey gesture and human language.
Skin-inspired, sensory robots for electronic implants
Authors: Zhang Lin , Xing Sicheng , Yin Haifeng , Weisbecker Hannah , Tran Hiep Thanh , Guo Ziheng , Han Tianhong , Wang Yihang , Liu Yihan , Wu Yizhang , Xie Wanrong , Huang Chuqi , Luo Wei , Demaesschalck Michael , McKinney Collin , Hankley Samuel , Huang Amber , Brusseau Brynn , Messenger Jett , Zou Yici , Bai Wubin
Published: June 2024

Drawing inspiration from cohesive integration of skeletal muscles and sensory skins in vertebrate animals, we present a design strategy of soft robots, primarily consisting of an electronic skin (e-skin) and an artificial muscle. These robots integrate multifunctional sensing and on-demand actuation into a biocompatible platform using an in-situ solution-based method. They feature biomimetic designs that enable adaptive motions and stress-free contact with tissues, supported by a battery-free wireless module for untethered operation. Demonstrations range from a robotic cuff for detecting blood pressure, to a robotic gripper for tracking bladder volume, an ingestible robot for pH sensing and on-site drug delivery, and a robotic patch for quantifying cardiac function and delivering electrotherapy, highlighting the application versatilities and potentials of the bio-inspired soft robots. Our designs establish a universal strategy with a broad range of sensing and responsive materials, to form integrated soft robots for medical technology and beyond.
FBXO7 ubiquitinates PRMT1 to suppress serine synthesis and tumor growth in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Luo Li , Wu Xingyun , Fan Jiawu , Dong Lixia , Wang Mao , Zeng Yan , Li Sijia , Yang Wenyong , Jiang Jingwen , Wang Kui
Published: June 2024

Cancer cells are often addicted to serine synthesis to support growth. How serine synthesis is regulated in cancer is not well understood. We recently demonstrated protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to methylate and activate phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH), thereby promoting serine synthesis. However, the mechanisms underlying PRMT1 upregulation and regulation of PRMT1-PHGDH axis remain unclear. Here, we show the E3 ubiquitin ligase F-box-only protein 7 (FBXO7) inhibits serine synthesis in HCC by binding PRMT1, inducing lysine 37 ubiquitination, and promoting proteosomal degradation of PRMT1. FBXO7-mediated PRMT1 downregulation cripples PHGDH arginine methylation and activation, resulting in impaired serine synthesis, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inhibition of HCC cell growth. Notably, FBXO7 is significantly downregulated in human HCC tissues, and inversely associated with PRMT1 protein and PHGDH methylation level. Overall, our study provides mechanistic insights into the regulation of cancer serine synthesis by FBXO7-PRMT1-PHGDH axis, and will facilitate the development of serine-targeting strategies for cancer therapy.
Pm57 from Aegilops searsii encodes a tandem kinase protein and confers wheat powdery mildew resistance
Authors: Zhao Yue , Dong Zhenjie , Miao Jingnan , Liu Qianwen , Ma Chao , Tian Xiubin , He Jinqiu , Bi Huihui , Yao Wen , Li Tao , Gill Harsimardeep S. , Zhang Zhibin , Cao Aizhong , Liu Bao , Li Huanhuan , Sehgal Sunish K. , Liu Wenxuan
Published: June 2024

Powdery mildew is a devastating disease that affects wheat yield and quality. Wheat wild relatives represent valuable sources of disease resistance genes. Cloning and characterization of these genes will facilitate their incorporation into wheat breeding programs. Here, we report the cloning of Pm57, a wheat powdery mildew resistance gene from Aegilops searsii. It encodes a tandem kinase protein with putative kinase-pseudokinase domains followed by a von Willebrand factor A domain (WTK-vWA), being ortholog of Lr9 that mediates wheat leaf rust resistance. The resistance function of Pm57 is validated via independent mutants, gene silencing, and transgenic assays. Stable Pm57 transgenic wheat lines and introgression lines exhibit high levels of all-stage resistance to diverse isolates of the Bgt fungus, and no negative impacts on agronomic parameters are observed in our experimental set-up. Our findings highlight the emerging role of kinase fusion proteins in plant disease resistance and provide a valuable gene for wheat breeding.
Accounting for Pacific climate variability increases projected global warming
Authors: Liang Yongxiao , Gillett Nathan P. , Monahan Adam H.
Published: June 2024

Observational constraint methods based on the relationship between the past global warming trend and projected warming across climate models were used to reduce uncertainties in projected warming by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Internal climate variability in the eastern tropical Pacific associated with the so-called pattern effect weakens this relationship and has reduced the observed warming trend over recent decades. Here we show that regressing out this variability before applying the observed global mean warming trend as a constraint results in higher and narrower twenty-first century warming ranges than other methods. Whereas the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change assessed that warming is unlikely to exceed 2 °C under a low-emissions scenario, our results indicate that warming is likely to exceed 2 °C under the same scenario, and hence, limiting global warming to well below 2 °C will be harder than previously anticipated. However, the reduced uncertainties in these projections could benefit adaptation planning.
Saponins from Allii Macrostemonis Bulbus attenuate atherosclerosis by inhibiting macrophage foam cell formation and inflammation
Authors: Zhao Shutian , Guo Huijun , Qiu Liang , Zhong Chao , Xue Jing , Qin Manman , Zhang Yifeng , Xu Chuanming , Xie Yanfei , Yu Jun
Published: June 2024

Allii Macrostemonis Bulbus (AMB) is a traditional Chinese medicine with medicinal and food homology. AMB has various biological activities, including anti-coagulation, lipid-lowering, anti-tumor, and antioxidant effects. Saponins from Allium macrostemonis Bulbus (SAMB), the predominant beneficial compounds, also exhibited lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the effect of SAMB on atherosclerosis and the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the pharmacological impact of SAMB on atherosclerosis. In apolipoprotein E deficiency (ApoE−/−) mice with high-fat diet feeding, oral SAMB administration significantly attenuated inflammation and atherosclerosis plaque formation. The in vitro experiments demonstrated that SAMB effectively suppressed oxidized-LDL-induced foam cell formation by down-regulating CD36 expression, thereby inhibiting lipid endocytosis in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Additionally, SAMB effectively blocked LPS-induced inflammatory response in bone marrow-derived macrophages potentially through modulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. In conclusion, SAMB exhibits a potential anti-atherosclerotic effect by inhibiting macrophage foam cell formation and inflammation. These findings provide novel insights into potential preventive and therapeutic strategies for the clinical management of atherosclerosis.
A deep dive into burn-mediated ARDS severity assessment: a retrospective study on hematological markers
Authors: Park Jeongsoo , Kym Dohern , Hur Jun , Yoon Jaechul , Kim Myongjin , Cho Yong Suk , Chun Wook , Yoon Dogeon
Published: June 2024

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a critical form of Acute Lung Injury (ALI), challenging clinical diagnosis and severity assessment. This study evaluates the potential utility of various hematological markers in burn-mediated ARDS, including Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), MPV-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (MPVLR), Platelet count, and Platelet Distribution Width (PDW). Employing a retrospective analysis of data collected over 12 years, this study focuses on the relationship between these hematological markers and ARDS diagnosis and severity in hospitalized patients. The study establishes NLR as a reliable systemic inflammation marker associated with ARDS severity. Elevated MPV and MPVLR also emerged as significant markers correlating with adverse outcomes. These findings suggest these economical, routinely measured markers can enhance traditional clinical criteria, offering a more objective approach to ARDS diagnosis and severity assessment. Hematological markers such as NLR, MPV, MPVLR, Platelet count, and PDW could be invaluable in clinical settings for diagnosing and assessing ARDS severity. They offer a cost-effective, accessible means to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient stratification in ARDS. However, further prospective studies are necessary to confirm these findings and investigate their integration with other diagnostic tools in diverse clinical settings.
Clock gene homologs lin-42 and kin-20 regulate circadian rhythms in C. elegans
Authors: Lamberti Melisa L. , Spangler Rebecca K. , Cerdeira Victoria , Ares Myriam , Rivollet Lise , Ashley Guinevere E. , Coronado Andrea Ramos , Tripathi Sarvind , Spiousas Ignacio , Ward Jordan D. , Partch Carrie L. , Bénard Claire Y. , Goya M. Eugenia , Golombek Diego A.
Published: June 2024

Circadian rhythms are endogenous oscillations in nearly all organisms, from prokaryotes to humans, allowing them to adapt to cyclical environments for close to 24 h. Circadian rhythms are regulated by a central clock, based on a transcription-translation feedback loop. One important protein in the central loop in metazoan clocks is PERIOD, which is regulated in part by Casein kinase 1ε/δ (CK1ε/δ) phosphorylation. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, period and casein kinase 1ε/δ are conserved as lin-42 and kin-20, respectively. Here, we studied the involvement of lin-42 and kin-20 in the circadian rhythms of the adult nematode using a bioluminescence-based circadian transcriptional reporter. We show that mutations of lin-42 and kin-20 generate a significantly longer endogenous period, suggesting a role for both genes in the nematode circadian clock, as in other organisms. These phenotypes can be partially rescued by overexpression of either gene under their native promoter. Both proteins are expressed in neurons and epidermal seam cells, as well as in other cells. Depletion of LIN-42 and KIN-20, specifically in neuronal cells after development, was sufficient to lengthen the period of oscillating sur-5 expression. Therefore, we conclude that LIN-42 and KIN-20 are critical regulators of the adult nematode circadian clock through neuronal cells.