bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐dimensional bounding surface architecture and lateral facies heterogeneity of a wet aeolian system: Entrada Sandstone, Utah
Authors: Gross Evan C. , Carr Mary , Jobe Zane R.
Published: August 2022

Aeolian deposits form noteworthy reservoirs (for example, Norphlet Formation and Rotliegend Group) in hydrocarbon extraction and carbon capture and storage contexts, but stratigraphic architecture imparts significant heterogeneity. Bounding surfaces result from autogenic and allogenic controls and can represent important changes in dune‐field dynamics. To further evaluate the impacts of facies heterogeneity and flow‐inhibiting bounding surfaces on reservoir performance and reconstruct ancient erg evolution, the stratigraphic architecture of aeolian systems must continue to be studied at multiple scales. This study pairs traditional methods (for example, measured stratigraphic sections) with advanced technologies (for example, drone‐derived outcrop models) to precisely resolve the metre to kilometre‐scale three‐dimensional stratigraphic architecture of wet aeolian Middle Jurassic Entrada Sandstone outcrops located at Rone Bailey Mesa near Moab, Utah, USA. Five facies are identified, primarily based on sedimentary fabrics, and are grouped into three associations named dune, sabkha and sand sheet. Statistical analyses of gamma‐ray spectrometer and automated mineralogy data indicate a distinct mineralogical difference between dune (quartz‐rich) and sabkha (more feldspathic) packages, suggesting that gamma‐ray logs may be used to better predict facies distribution in the subsurface. Seven modelled super bounding surfaces are planar to undulatory, with no perceived spatial trends. Five modelled interdune migration surfaces are undulatory but exhibit an average 0.09° angle of climb roughly parallel to the palaeocurrent direction. Two modelled superposition surfaces are linear to sinuous in plan‐view. Laterally discontinuous sabkha packages observed are interpreted to be remnants of closed, damp, interdune flats located between ca 8.5 to 17.0 m tall, sinuous, transverse bedforms or patches of such bedforms. Based on stratigraphic architecture interpretations, the Entrada Sandstone preserves signals of allogenic forcing and localized autogenic bedform cannibalization of the substrate. The findings of this study, some of which are not commonly recognized in wet aeolian facies models, enhance the understanding of erg evolution and can parameterize static models of aeolian reservoirs.
Explaining the diffusion of radical ideas
Authors: Hsiao Yuan , Pfaff Steven
Published: August 2022

Growing interest in the diffusion of radicalism reflects concern with political discontent and widening social inequality. It also reflects the profoundly different forms of communication emerging from the new digital media environment that are recasting radical politics. Sociology has important and longstanding insights into the incubation of radical ideas and the inception of radical movements. Drawing on general network models, particularly threshold network diffusion models, we argue for a compelling perspective on the diffusion of radicalism that is emerging in contemporary sociology. Studying the spread of radical ideas contributes to the development of the diffusion literature by underscoring the limitations of static and singular network explanations—explanations that examine one network and one direction of influence at time. We contend that scholars should distinguish between the limited diffusion of radical ideas and the widespread diffusion of radical ideas. To explain the latter, network theories should integrate frameworks of multiplex networks and network ecosystems, as illustrated by research on the rise of radical right‐wing political rhetoric. We consider how sociology might inform strategies for containing radicalism before drawing conclusions about future conceptual and methodological directions in research on radicalism.
Gender and the blurring boundaries of work in the era of telework—A longitudinal study
Authors: Karjalainen Mira
Published: August 2022

This longitudinal study analyses gender and the blurring boundaries of work during prolonged telework, utilising data gathered during the different phases of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The pandemic caused a major change in the knowledge work sector, which has characteristically been more prone to work leaking into other parts of life. The study examines the blurring boundaries of telework: between time and place, care and housework, and emotional, social, spiritual and aesthetic labour. The experiences of different genders regarding the blurring boundaries of work during long‐term telework are scrutinised using a mixed methods approach, analysing two surveys (Autumn 2020:N = 87, and Autumn 2021:N = 94) conducted longitudinally in a consulting company operating in Finland. There were several gendered differences in the reported forms of labour, which contribute to the blurring boundaries of work. Some boundary blurring remained the same during the study, while some fluctuated. The study also showed how the gendered practices around the blurring boundaries of work transformed during prolonged telework. Blurring boundaries of work and attempts to establish boundaries became partially gendered, as gender and life situation were reflected in knowledge workers' experiences of teleworking.
Influence of the Anatomical Structure on the Hemodynamics of Iliac Vein Stenosis
Authors: Changsheng Li , Haiquan Feng , Kun Wang , Xiaotian Wang , Yonggang Wang
Published: August 2022

Few reports study the effects of the anatomical structure of the iliac vein on hemodynamics and the methods to reduce and delay in-stent thrombosis. The anatomical structure of iliac vein stenosis was used to establish vascular models with different stenosis rates, taper angle, and left branch tilt angle in the work. The influence of anatomical structure on hemodynamics was revealed through theoretical research and in vitro experimental verification. A real iliac vein model was built based on computed tomography angiography (CTA) images, and hemorheological parameters including time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI) and relative residence time (RRT) were analyzed by computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The results showed that iliac vein stenosis could significantly increase the wall shear stress (WSS) of the blood vessels at the stenosis site and outside the intersection area, which was easy to produce eddy currents in the distal blood vessels. With the increased taper angle, the proportion of low-wall shear stress areas and the risk of thrombosis increased. A small tilt angle could aggravate the influence of narrow blood vessels on the blood flow characteristics and vascular wall. The numerical simulation results were consistent with the theoretical research results, and the experimental study verified the correctness of the simulation. The work is helpful to further understand the hemodynamic characteristics of the iliac vein, providing a scientific reference for clinical treatment and diagnosis.
Insect Wing Buckling Influences Stress and Stability During Collisions
Authors: Jankauski Mark , Schwab Ryan , Casey Cailin , Mountcastle Andrew
Published: August 2022

Flapping insect wings collide with vegetation and other obstacles during flight. Repeated collisions may irreversibly damage the insect wing, thereby compromising the insect's ability to fly. Further, reaction torques caused by the collision may destabilize the insect and hinder its ability to maneuver. To mitigate the adverse effects of impact, some insect wings are equipped with a flexible joint called a “costal break.” The costal break buckles once it exceeds a critical angle, which is believed to improve flight stability and prevent irreversible wing damage. However, to our knowledge, there are no models to predict the dynamics of the costal break. Through this research, we develop a simple model of an insect wing with a costal break. The wing was modeled as two beams interconnected by a torsional spring, where the stiffness of the torsional spring instantaneously decreases once it has exceeded a critical angle. We conducted a series of static tests to approximate model parameters. Then, we used numerical simulation to estimate the reaction moments, angular impulse, and peak stresses experienced by the wing during a collision. When evaluated over the duration of an external load, we found that buckling could reduce reaction moments and angular impulse up to 82% and 99%, respectively, compared to a homogeneous wing. This suggests the costal break can enhance flight stability. On the other hand, buckling maximally increased peak stresses two times compared to a homogeneous wing, indicating the costal break does not reduce likelihood of damage under the simplified loading considered.
Consistent Strain-Based Multifidelity Modeling for Geometrically Nonlinear Beam Structures
Authors: Otsuka Keisuke , Wang Yinan , Fujita Koji , Nagai Hiroki , Makihara Kanjuro
Published: August 2022

Conventional multifidelity modeling for slender structures such as folding-wing aircraft and offshore wind turbines does not allow the generation of multiple fidelity models that consistently use the same external force model, which complicates simulation program and design process. Although consistent absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF)-based multifidelity modeling was recently proposed to address this inconsistency, it still has the following four problems: (1) a large number of generalized coordinates, (2) a large number of Lagrange multipliers, (3) difficulty in constraining high-frequency axial deformation, and (4) a lack of lower-fidelity models. The lower-fidelity models that have not yet been developed are torsion-only beam, extension-only truss, and bending-only beam models. The objective of this study was to develop a novel consistent strain-based multifidelity modeling framework that addresses these problems by leveraging new vector–strain transformations from ANCF to the strain-based beam formulation. We employed a hydrodynamic force model based on Morison's equation as an example to demonstrate all fidelity models obtained from the proposed strain-based framework consistently use the same external force model. We conducted five simulations to verify the proposed models. The consistent external force model for the hydrodynamic force was then validated by comparison with experimental data. The simulation results concurred with those of conventional models and experiments. Low-fidelity models exhibited over 98% reduction in calculation time compared to high-fidelity models, which helps in conceptual and initial designs that require a large number of parametric simulations.
Designing of a Field Shaper for Electromagnetic Crimping of Multi-Tube-Tube and Multi-Tube-Rod in Single Discharge Energy
Authors: Rajak Ashish , Vivek Anupam , Daehn Glenn S.
Published: August 2022

This paper designed a unique field shaper, which can crimp multiple end tubes in single discharge energy. This design will surely provide an advantage of crimping different diameter tube-tube-tube and tube-tube-rod in single discharge energy. The design of the field shaper not only shows the feasibility of the multi-tube-tube and multi-tube-rod crimping for different electrical and fluid transfer applications but also explores the idea that multi-joining is also possible if carried out at the correct machine and tool parameters. The feasibility of the new process was proven by doing numerical analysis using the electromagnetic (EM) module of the ls-dyna software. Discussions on variables like current density, magnetic field, effective stress, impact velocity, and slit change are carried out. The work was validated using the tube deformation, the cross-sectional analysis of the crimped samples, and the impact velocity of the flyer tube that was measured using the PDV system. Post-processing of the samples was also carried out like a pull-out test, which justifies the numerical data interpreted. Some new important observation of the pressure waves generated during the process is discussed. Those intense pressure waves still exist after the peak current value is achieved during the current first cycle. As predicted, it may also be one of the reasons affecting the lifecycle of the field shaper. The design of the field shaper will provide a unique method for carrying out the multiple samples crimping in the single discharge energy and enhancing the production rate.
A Turbo-Oriented Data-Driven Modification to the Spalart–Allmaras Turbulence Model
Authors: He Xiao , Zhao Fanzhou , Vahdati Mehdi
Published: August 2022

The Spalart–Allmaras (SA) turbulence model is one of the most popular models applied to compressors, but it often over-predicts blockage size and hence under-predicts the stall margin. In this paper, a novel modification to the SA model is proposed to improve the prediction of compressor near-stall flows. The modification is based on the dimensionless vortical pressure gradient, which identifies blockage cells featured by 3D swirling, adverse pressure gradient, and low-momentum flows. It unblocks the compressor passage by enhancing the eddy viscosity in the identified blockage cells; whereas in canonical 2D flows the modification is automatically switched off. The model coefficients are calibrated via Bayesian inference, which considers the uncertainties involved in experiments and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of turbomachinery. The rotor exit radial profile data of NASA Rotor 67 at peak-efficiency and near-stall points are used for calibration. The calibrated model is tested extensively in four compressors covering both tip blockage and corner separation as well as both industrial and laboratory Reynolds number and Mach number. For the NASA Rotor 67 and the TUDa-GLR-OpenStage, the proposed model predicts more accurate stall margins at all operating speeds due to the tip unblocking effect. For the BUAA Stage B rotor, the proposed model predicts the tip blockage size and thus the stall margin more accurately. For the LMFA NACA65 cascade, the proposed model with the quadratic constitutive relation (QCR) achieves significant improvement in predicting the exit profiles due to the unblocking effect on the corner separation. The proposed model, termed as SA-PGω in this work, is a promising engineering tool for future Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) simulations of compressor near-stall flows.
Extending Highly Loaded Axial Fan Operability Range Through Novel Blade Design
Authors: Lopez Diego I. , Ghisu Tiziano , Kipouros Timoleon , Shahpar Shahrokh , Wilson Mark
Published: August 2022

The tip clearance size has historically been considered to be the main factor affecting stability range in axial fan and compressors. This paper reveals that the stall characteristics are defined by the axial momentum flux of the tip leakage flow and that tip clearance is primarily a strong driver for this metric. A bespoke methodology for carefully tailoring the axial momentum via three-dimensional design is presented, which enables a higher degree of control over the stability range for cases where the tip clearance responds to other considerations and cannot be defined for this purpose. The effect of the axial momentum on efficiency is also addressed and the trade-off between operability range and design point performance is derived. The results show that the conditions for optimal stability differ from those for optimal efficiency and that control over the axial momentum enables tuning the design for a desired exchange. Numerical simulations have been employed to drive the analysis through a high-fidelity computational model whose behavior is supported by rich set of experimental data. Contrary to current belief, results further indicate that an accurate characterization of stall, including onset mechanism, can be achieved through steady-state simulations, minimizing the need for expensive time-accurate computations during the design phase.
Four new species of larval Erythraeoidea (Acari: Trombidiformes: Prostigmata) and three higher taxa new to China: genus Hirstiosoma and subfamily Hirstiosomatinae (Smarididae), and genus Grandjeanella (Erythraeidae: Abrolophinae)
Authors: Xu Si-Yuan , Jin Dao-Chao , Guo Jian-Jun , Yi Tian-Ci
Published: August 2022

Four new species, Abrolophus quadrapexicis Xu & Jin sp. nov., Grandjeanella dianensis Xu & Jin sp. nov., Leptus (Leptus) trisolenidionus Xu & Jin sp. nov. and Hirstiosoma tibetensis Xu & Jin sp. nov. are described and illustrated based on larvae. The species Hirstiosoma sadafae (Amin, Khanjani & Nadri) comb. nov. is transferred from the genus Sphaerotarsus to Hirstiosoma based on gnathosoma with two pairs barbed hypostomalae (as and bs), as and bs almost equal in length. H. tibetensis sp. nov. and G. dianensis sp. nov. are from the Tibetan Plateau (Qinghai-Tibet Plateau), a unique geographical unit of the highest altitude in the world. The described H. tibetensis sp. nov. from the Tibetan Plateau represents a newly recorded subfamily from China, namely Hirstiosomatinae (Smarididae) with the genus Hirstiosoma. The genus Grandjeanella including six species distributed in Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia (Sulawesi), is new to China and the Eurasian continent as G. dianensis sp. nov. found in the southern Tibetan Plateau (Gaoligongshan National Natural Reserve). In China Abrolophus has been known from the Oriental realm, A. quadrapexicis sp. nov. makes it cover both the Palaearctic and Oriental realm of China. L. (L.) trisolenidionus sp. nov. belongs to the phalangii species group and torresianus species subgroup, which contains three species previously known in Oceania (Australia) and South America (French Guiana) and here is the first report in Asia (China).
Using auxiliary electrochemical working electrodes as probe during contact glow discharge electrolysis: A proof of concept study
Authors: Artmann Evelyn , Forschner Lukas , Jacob Timo , Engstfeld Albert K.
Published: August 2022

Plasma in-liquid by means of anodic contact glow discharge electrolysis (aCGDE) is a growing research field allowing the selective modification of the electrode and the electrolyte. The aim of this proof of concept study is to demonstrate that auxiliary electrochemical electrodes placed in the vicinity of the plasma electrode can be modified by aCGDE (ignited at the anode by applying a DC voltage between the driving electrodes). Furthermore, we illustrate in how far such auxiliary electrodes can be used as a probe to detect products (in particular, H2, H2O2, and O2) formed in the solution by aCGDE via electrochemical techniques. In this work, aCGDE is achieved by applying a voltage of 580 V to a small Pt wire (plasma electrode) versus a large stainless steel counter electrode. An auxiliary Pt electrochemical working electrode, operated in a three electrode configuration, is placed at different distances from the plasma working electrode. Depending on the distance, we find small changes in the working electrode structure. More importantly, we will show that, in principle, the local H2O2 concentration in the electrolyte can be monitored operando. After aCGDE, the concentration changes with time and depends on the distance from the plasma electrode.
Black-hole analog in vehicular traffic
Authors: de Souza Luanna K. , Matsas George E. A.
Published: August 2022

We propose here a simple black-hole analog in vehicular-traffic dynamics. The corresponding causal diagram is determined by the propagation of the tail light flashes emitted by a convoy of cars on a highway. In addition to being a new black-hole analog, this illustrates how causal diagrams, so common in general relativity, may be useful in areas as unexpected as vehicular-traffic dynamics.
Radiation efficiency of a distribution of baffled pistons with arbitrary phases
Authors: García A. Carlos , Dauchez Nicolas , Lefebvre Gautier
Published: August 2022

The radiation resistance and efficiency of a collection of circular pistons, randomly placed on a plane and vibrating with arbitrary phases, are expressed as a combination of the self- and mutual-radiation components. We use the first product or bridge theorem to construct the directivity pattern of this type of arrangement and the radiation properties are calculated according to Bouwkamp's impedance theorem. To illustrate the versatility of our approach, we refer to special cases for symmetric arrangements, for example, to compare with the modal radiation efficiency in structures having “regular” modal patterns.
Calibrating the Sabine and Eyring formulas
Authors: Prawda Karolina , Schlecht Sebastian J. , Välimäki Vesa
Published: August 2022

Of the many available reverberation time prediction formulas, Sabine's and Eyring's equations are still widely used. The assumptions of homogeneity and isotropy of sound energy during the decay associated with those models are usually recognized as a reason for lack of agreement between predictions and measurements. At the same time, the inaccuracy in the estimation of the sound-absorption coefficient adds to the uncertainty of calculations. This paper shows that the error of incorrectly assumed sound absorption is more detrimental to the prediction precision than the inherent error in the formulas themselves. The proposed absorption calibration procedure reduces the differences between the measured and predicted reverberation time values, showing that an accuracy within ±10% from the target reverberation time values can be achieved regardless of the absorption distribution in a room. The paper also discusses the oft neglected air absorption of sound, which may introduce considerable bias to the measurement results. The need for an air-absorption compensation procedure is highlighted, and a method for the estimation of its parameters in octave bands is proposed and compared with other approaches. The results of this study provide justification for the use of the Sabine and Eyring formulas for reverberation time predictions.
Theory and Social Media in Sport Studies
Authors: Abeza Gashaw , Sanderson Jimmy
Published: August 2022

A key feature of a robust academic discipline is that its homegrown theories and investing in theory contribute to building good research. In the field of sport and social media research, the rigorous utilization of theory is one of the areas where the field is still facing “disciplinary pain.” In fact, the unique features of social media provide researchers in the sport research community with a valuable opportunity for proposing, testing, applying, critiquing, comparing, integrating, and expanding theories. In this commentary, the authors, based on their own experience (as researchers, readers, and reviewers of social media in sport), contend that reference resources are lacking on this topic to help young (or existing) researchers locate appropriate theories for their research. Hence, this work identifies, documents, and discusses the theories used, advanced, and developed in social media research for sport studies. Furthermore, a compilation is brought together of different theories from various disciplines that researchers in this community may consider for their future work.
Teacher and Student’s Perspectives on Their Experiences Within Hybrid Sport Education-Cooperative Learning Pedagogical Model Units in Elementary Physical Education
Authors: Gil-Arias Alexander , Harvey Stephen , Morante Óscar M. , Claver Fernando , Fernández-Río Javier
Published: August 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate teacher and students’ perspectives on their experiences within three consecutive hybrid sport education and cooperative learning pedagogical model units. Method: Fifty elementary school students (Mage = 10.52; SDage = 0.39) and a 36-year-old male teacher participated in three consecutive hybrid cooperative learning/sport education units (24 lessons). Semistructured interviews were conducted to gather data and gain a rich, insiders’ perspective of their experiences. Results: Three main themes (including several subthemes) were generated from the data analysis: students’ enthusiasm and involvement (autonomy support, motivation, and engagement); students’ learning (technical–tactical learning, cooperative skills, and social learning); and teacher challenges. Conclusions: Findings from the current study showed that a teacher’s use of three consecutive hybrid sport education/cooperative learning pedagogical model units promoted a learning environment where students were involved in authentic sport experiences that fostered the development of students’ learning across all domains.
Engineering of hybrid spheroids of mesenchymal stem cells and drug depots for immunomodulating effect in islet xenotransplantation
Authors: Nguyen Tiep Tien , Pham Duc-Vinh , Park Junhyeung , Phung Cao Dai , Nepal Mahesh Raj , Pandit Mahesh , Shrestha Manju , Son Youlim , Joshi Mili , Jeong Tae Cheon , Park Pil-Hoon , Choi Dong-Young , Chang Jae-Hoon , Kim Ju-Hyun , Kim Jae-Ryong , Kim Il-Kug , Yong Chul Soon , Kim Jong Oh , Sung Jong-Hyuk , Jiang Hu-Lin , Kim Hyung-Sik , Yook Simmyung , Jeong Jee-Heon
Published: August 2022

Immunomodulation is an essential consideration for cell replacement procedures. Unfortunately, lifelong exposure to nonspecific systemic immunosuppression results in immunodeficiency and has toxic effects on nonimmune cells. Here, we engineered hybrid spheroids of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with rapamycin-releasing poly(lactic-
co
-glycolic acid) microparticles (RAP-MPs) to prevent immune rejection of islet xenografts in diabetic C57BL/6 mice. Hybrid spheroids were rapidly formed by incubating cell-particle mixture in methylcellulose solution while maintaining high cell viability. RAP-MPs were uniformly distributed in hybrid spheroids and sustainably released RAP for ~3 weeks. Locoregional transplantation of hybrid spheroids containing low doses of RAP-MPs (200- to 4000-ng RAP per recipient) significantly prolonged islet survival times and promoted the generation of regional regulatory T cells. Enhanced programmed death-ligand 1 expression by MSCs was found to be responsible for the immunomodulatory performance of hybrid spheroids. Our results suggest that these hybrid spheroids offer a promising platform for the efficient use of MSCs in the transplantation field.
AFF3, a susceptibility factor for autoimmune diseases, is a molecular facilitator of immunoglobulin class switch recombination
Authors: Tsukumo Shin-ichi , Subramani Poorani Ganesh , Seija Noé , Tabata Mizuho , Maekawa Yoichi , Mori Yuya , Ishifune Chieko , Itoh Yasushi , Ota Mineto , Fujio Keishi , Di Noia Javier M. , Yasutomo Koji
Published: August 2022

Immunoglobulin class switch recombination (CSR) plays critical roles in controlling infections and inflammatory tissue injuries. Here, we show that
AFF3
, a candidate gene for both rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes, is a molecular facilitator of CSR with an isotype preference.
Aff3
-deficient mice exhibit low serum levels of immunoglobulins, predominantly immunoglobulin G2c (IgG2c) followed by IgG1 and IgG3 but not IgM. Furthermore,
Aff3
-deficient mice show weak resistance to
Plasmodium yoelii
infection, confirming that
Aff3
modulates immunity to this pathogen. Mechanistically, the AFF3 protein binds to the IgM and IgG1 switch regions via a C-terminal domain, and
Aff3
deficiency reduces the binding of AID to the switch regions less efficiently. One
AFF3
risk allele for rheumatoid arthritis is associated with high mRNA expression of
AFF3
,
IGHG2
, and
IGHA2
in human B cells. These findings demonstrate that AFF3 directly regulates CSR by facilitating the recruitment of AID to the switch regions.
Magnetic soft robotic bladder for assisted urination
Authors: Yang Youzhou , Wang Jiaxin , Wang Liu , Wu Qingyang , Ling Le , Yang Yueying , Ning Shan , Xie Yan , Cao Quanliang , Li Liang , Liu Jihong , Ling Qing , Zang Jianfeng
Published: August 2022

The poor contractility of the detrusor muscle in underactive bladders (UABs) fails to increase the pressure inside the UAB, leading to strenuous and incomplete urination. However, existing therapeutic strategies by modulating/repairing detrusor muscles, e.g., neurostimulation and regenerative medicine, still have low efficacy and/or adverse effects. Here, we present an implantable magnetic soft robotic bladder (MRB) that can directly apply mechanical compression to the UAB to assist urination. Composed of a biocompatible elastomer composite with optimized magnetic domains, the MRB enables on-demand contraction of the UAB when actuated by magnetic fields. A representative MRB for a UAB in a porcine model is demonstrated, and MRB-assisted urination is validated by in situ computed tomography imaging after 14-day implantation. The urodynamic tests show a series of successful urination with a high pressure increase and fast urine flow. Our work paves the way for developing MRB to assist urination for humans with UABs.
Rationalized design of hyperbranched trans-scale graphene arrays for enduring high-energy lithium metal batteries
Authors: Fang Ruopian , Han Zhaojun , Li Jibiao , Yu Zhichun , Pan Jian , Cheong Soshan , Tilley Richard D. , Trujillo Francisco , Wang Da-Wei
Published: August 2022

Lithium (Li) metal anode have shown exceptional potential for high-energy batteries. However, practical cell-level energy density of Li metal batteries is usually limited by the low areal capacity (<3 mAh cm
−2
) because of the accelerated degradation of high–areal capacity Li metal anodes upon cycling. Here, we report the design of hyperbranched vertical arrays of defective graphene for enduring deep Li cycling at practical levels of areal capacity (>6 mAh cm
−2
). Such atomic-to-macroscopic trans-scale design is rationalized by quantifying the degradation dynamics of Li metal anodes. High-energy Li metal cells are prototyped under realistic conditions with high cathode capacity (>4 mAh cm
−2
), low negative-to-positive electrode capacity ratio (1:1), and low electrolyte-to-capacity ratio (5 g Ah
−1
), which shed light on a promising move toward practical Li metal batteries.
(E1)levating COVID-19 vaccine efficiency with adenoviral E1 proteins
Authors: Green Douglas R. , Thomas Paul G.
Published: August 2022

Improved adenovirus-based COVID-19 vaccines provide an important tool to combat the ever-evolving virus.
Intrinsic connectivity of the human brain provides scaffold for tau aggregation in clinical variants of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Therriault Joseph , Pascoal Tharick A. , Savard Mélissa , Mathotaarachchi Sulantha , Benedet Andréa L. , Chamoun Mira , Tissot Cécile , Lussier Firoza Z. , Rahmouni Nesrine , Stevenson Jenna , Qureshi Muhammad Naveed Iqbal , Kang Min Su , Thomas Émilie , Vitali Paolo , Soucy Jean-Paul , Massarweh Gassan , Saha-Chaudhuri Paramita , Gauthier Serge , Rosa-Neto Pedro
Published: August 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) phenotypes might result from differences in selective vulnerability. Evidence from preclinical models suggests that tau pathology has cell-to-cell propagation properties. Therefore, here, we tested the cell-to-cell propagation framework in the amnestic, visuospatial, language, and behavioral/dysexecutive phenotypes of AD. We report that each AD phenotype is associated with a distinct network-specific pattern of tau aggregation, where tau aggregation is concentrated in brain network hubs. In all AD phenotypes, regional tau load could be predicted by connectivity patterns of the human brain. Furthermore, regions with greater connectivity displayed similar rates of longitudinal tau accumulation in an independent cohort. Connectivity-based tau deposition was not restricted to a specific vulnerable network but was rather a general property of brain organization, linking selective vulnerability and transneuronal spreading models of neurodegeneration. Together, this study indicates that intrinsic brain connectivity provides a framework for tau aggregation across diverse phenotypic manifestations of AD.
Aconitate decarboxylase 1 is a mediator of polymicrobial sepsis
Authors: Wu Runliu , Liu Jiao , Wang Nian , Zeng Ling , Yu Chunhua , Chen Feng , Wang Haichao , Billiar Timothy R. , Jiang Jianxin , Tang Daolin , Kang Rui
Published: August 2022

Sepsis is a challenging clinical syndrome caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Here, we identified an unexpected proseptic activity of aconitate decarboxylase 1 (ACOD1) in monocytes and macrophages. Previous studies have suggested that ACOD1, also known as immune-responsive gene 1, is an immunometabolic regulator that favors itaconate production to inhibit bacterial lipopolysaccharide-induced innate immunity. We used next-generation sequencing of lipopolysaccharide-activated THP1 cells to demonstrate that ACOD1 accumulation confers a robust proinflammation response by activating a cytokine storm, predominantly through the tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway. We further revealed that the phosphorylation of cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) on threonine-160 mediates the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase 8 through receptor for activated C kinase 1, leading to JUN-dependent transcription of
ACOD1
in human and mouse macrophages or monocytes. Genetic deletion of
CDK2
or
ACOD1
in myeloid cells, or the administration of the CDK inhibitor dinaciclib, protected mice against polymicrobial sepsis and was associated with improved survival and decreased cytokine storm. The expression of the CDK2-ACOD1 axis also correlated with severity of illness in a cohort of 40 patients with bacterial sepsis. Thus, our findings provide evidence for a previously unrecognized function of ACOD1 in innate immunity and suggest it as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of sepsis.
Preclinical evaluation of proteolytic targeting of LCK as a therapeutic approach in T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Hu Jianzhong , Jarusiewicz Jamie , Du Guoqing , Nishiguchi Gisele , Yoshimura Satoshi , Panetta John C. , Li Zhenhua , Min Jaeki , Yang Lei , Chepyala Divyabharathi , Actis Marisa , Reyes Noemi , Smart Brandon , Pui Ching-Hon , Teachey David T. , Rankovic Zoran , Yang Jun J.
Published: August 2022

T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological malignancy, and there is an unmet need for targeted therapies, especially for patients with relapsed disease. We have recently identified pre–T cell receptor and lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK) signaling as a common therapeutic vulnerability in T-ALL. LCK inhibitor dasatinib showed efficacy against T-ALL in preclinical studies and in patients with T-ALL; however, this is transient in most cases. Leveraging the proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) approach, we developed a series of LCK degraders using dasatinib as an LCK ligand and phenyl-glutarimide as a cereblon-directing moiety. Our lead compound SJ11646 exhibited marked efficiency in cereblon-mediated LCK degradation in T-ALL cells. Relative to dasatinib, SJ11646 showed up to three orders of magnitude higher cytotoxicity in LCK-activated T-ALL cell lines and primary leukemia samples in vitro, with drastically prolonged suppression of LCK signaling. In vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiling indicated a 630% increase in the duration of LCK suppression by SJ11646 over dasatinib in patient-derived xenograft models of T-ALL, which translated into its extended leukemia-free survival over dasatinib in vivo. Last, SJ11646 retained a high binding affinity to 51 human kinases, particularly ABL1, KIT, and DDR1, all of which are known drug targets in other cancers. Together, our dasatinib-based phenyl-glutarimide PROTACs are promising therapeutic agents in T-ALL and valuable tools for developing degradation-based therapeutics for other cancers.
The Omicron Variant BA.1.1 Presents a Lower Pathogenicity than B.1 D614G and Delta Variants in a Feline Model of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Martins Mathias , do Nascimento Gabriela M. , Nooruzzaman Mohammed , Yuan Fangfeng , Chen Chi , Caserta Leonardo C. , Miller Andrew D. , Whittaker Gary R. , Fang Ying , Diel Diego G.
Published: August 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of concern emerged in South Africa late in 2021 and rapidly spread across the world causing a significant increase in the number of infections. Importantly, this variant was also associated with an increased risk of reinfections.
HLA-II-Associated HIV-1 Adaptation Decreases CD4
+
T-Cell Responses in HIV-1 Vaccine Recipients
Authors: Files Jacob K. , Sterrett Sarah , Henostroza Sebastian , Fucile Christopher , Maroney Kevin , Fram Tim , Mallal Simon , Kalams Spyros , Carlson Jonathan , Rosenberg Alexander , Erdmann Nathan , Bansal Anju , Goepfert Paul A.
Published: August 2022

Despite decades of research, an effective HIV-1 vaccine remains elusive. Vaccine strategies leading to the generation of broadly neutralizing antibodies are likely needed to provide the best opportunity of generating a protective immune response against HIV-1.
Biochemical and Structural Study of RuvC and YqgF from Deinococcus radiodurans
Authors: Sun Yiyang , Yang Jieyu , Xu Guangzhi , Cheng Kaiying
Published: August 2022

Deinococcus radiodurans
is one of the most radioresistant bacteria in the world due to its robust DNA damage response and repair abilities, which are contributed by its efficient homologous recombination repair system. However, the late steps of homologous recombination, especially the Holliday junction (HJ) resolution process, have not yet been well-studied in
D. radiodurans
.
Oral Microbiota from Periodontitis Promote Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Development via γδ T Cell Activation
Authors: Wei Wei , Li Jia , Shen Xin , Lyu Jinglu , Yan Caixia , Tang Boyu , Ma Wenjuan , Xie Huixu , Zhao Lei , Cheng Lei , Deng Ye , Li Yan
Published: August 2022

The work reveals the role of the oral microbiota from periodontitis in carcinogenesis. Furthermore, our study provides insight into the pathogenesis of OSCC with periodontitis by outlining the tumor-associated immune response shaped by the oral microbiota from periodontitis, which might identify new research and intervention targets for OSCC with periodontitis.
Low Ciprofloxacin Concentrations Select Multidrug-Resistant Mutants Overproducing Efflux Pumps in Clinical Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Sanz-García Fernando , Hernando-Amado Sara , López-Causapé Carla , Oliver Antonio , Martínez José Luis
Published: August 2022

It has been established that antibiotic concentrations below MICs can select antibiotic-resistant pathogens, a feature of relevance for analyzing the role of nonclinical ecosystems in antibiotic resistance evolution. The range of concentrations where this selection occurs defines the sub-MIC selective window, whose width depends on the antibiotic.
Emergence and Spread of the SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern Delta across Different Brazilian Regions
Authors: Arantes Ighor , Gomes Naveca Felipe , Gräf Tiago ,   COVID-19 Fiocruz Genomic Surveillance Network,, Miyajima Fábio , Faoro Helisson , Luz Wallau Gabriel , Delatorre Edson , Reis Appolinario Luciana , Cavalcante Pereira Elisa , Venas Tainá Moreira Martins , Sampaio Rocha Alice , Serrano Lopes Renata , Mendonça Siqueira Marilda , Bello Gonzalo , Cristina Resende Paola , Araújo Carlos Leonardo , Akesenen Cleber Furtado , Dias Fernando Braga Stehling , Duarte Igor Oliveira , Bezerra Jamille Mendes , Sousa Joaquim Cesar , Jerônimo Pedro Miguel Carneiro , Porto Suzana Almeida , de Oliveira Costa Thaís , de Oliveira Thais Ferreira , de Souza Ticiane Cavalcante , Miyajima Veridiana Pessoa , Nasr Acacia Lourenço Francisco , De la Vechia Ana Carolina , Piler Rosana Aparecida , Huggler Tatiane Motta , Fernandes Cristiano , Gomes Marcelo , Abbud Adriano , Correa Katia Oliveira , da Silva Alexandre Freitas , da Silva Neto Antonio Marinho , Docena Cássia , Dezordi Filipe Zimmer , de Lima Gustavo Barbosa , Machado Laís Ceschini , Silva Lilian Caroliny Amorim , Paiva Marcelo Henrique Santos , Bezerra Matheus Filgueira , de Lima Raul Emídio , Suzukawa Andreia Akemi , de Medeiros Oliveira Mauro , Schemberger Michelle Orane , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Brasil Patricia , Veloso Valdiléa G. , Pereira Felicidade , Teixeira Dalane Loudal Florentino , Barroso Haline , Leite Anderson Brandao , da Silva Vinicius Lemes , Bernardes André Felipe Leal , de Melo Iani Felipe Campos , Riediger Irina , Debur Maria do Carmo , Rocha Themis , Costa Andreia Santos , Silva Lindomar dos Anjos , Mattos Tirza Peixoto , Marques Ana Barjud , Mello Maximo Liana Perdigão , Viana Vania Angelica Feitosa , Rodrigues Rodrigo Ribeiro , Rovaris Darcita Buerger , Fernandes Sandra Bianchini , Lima Neto Lidio Gonçalves , Andrade Valnete , Cavalcanti Andrea Cony , Gregianini Richard Steiner Salvato Tatiana Schäffer , Galvão Jucimária Dantas , Costa Ágatha , de Lima Guerra Corado André , Nascimento Fernanda , Silva George , Pessoa Karina , Gonçalves Luciana Fé , Brandão Maria Júlia , Mejía Matilde , de Jesus Michele Silva , Nascimento Valdinete Alves , Souza Victor , da Silva Bruna Mendonça , Motta Fernando do Couto , de Macedo Carvalho Jéssica , Pinto Larissa Macedo , Vinhal Fernando , de Lucena Heráclio Morgana de Freitas Caraciolo Isabela , Silva Roberta Mendes Abreu , de Almeida Silvio Rodrigues , Silva Thayna Karoline Sousa , Magalhães Alessandro Álvares , Batista Érika Lopes Rocha , do Carmo Greice Madeleine Ikeda , Sallas Janaína , Almeida Walquiria Aparecida , Garcia Marcio , Costa Cecilia Leite , dos Santos Eduardo Ruback , Bezerra João Felipe
Published: August 2022

Amid the SARS-CoV-2 continuously changing epidemic profile, this study details the space-time dynamics of the emergence of the Delta lineage across Brazilian territories, pointing out its multiple introductions in the country and its most prevalent sublineages. Some of these sublineages have their emergence, alongside their genomic composition and geographic distribution, detailed here for the first time.
Ancillary PanoMap OCT shows the progression of glaucomatous papillomacular bundle defect with disc haemorrhage on the fovea–disc axis
Authors: Lee Eun Jung , Han Jong Chul , Kee Changwon
Published: August 2022

Background/aims

To identify the spatial relationship between disc haemorrhage (DH) on the fovea–disc axis and retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) defect in the papillomacular bundle (PMB) using ancillary PanoMap optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

We investigated the presence and progression of spatially corresponding PMB defects in glaucomatous eyes with temporally located DH on the fovea–disc axis (FoDi-DH). We identified PMB defects using ancillary PanoMap OCT with guided progression analysis, in addition to red-free photographs.

Results

We studied 36 eyes of 35 glaucoma patients with FoDi-DH, pre-existing PMB defects were observed in 18 eyes (50.0%) at the time and location of the initial FoDi-DH occurrence, 14 (38.9%) of which progressed during the follow-up period. New development of PMB defects occurred in 15 (41.7%) of 18 eyes without pre-existing PMB defects. Overall, FoDi-DH was associated with PMB defects in 33 (91.7%) eyes at locations spatially overlapping the PMB defect. Red-free photography and OCT were complementary in detecting PMB defects and progression. Among 47 cases, 20 were concordant, while 10 and 17 were detected only in photography and OCT, respectively. The central visual field defect increased significantly throughout the follow-up period (p=0.006).

Conclusion

Most FoDi-DH cases were related to the presence and progression of glaucomatous PMB defects at locations spatially overlapping the defect. OCT helped clarify changes in PMB defects detected by red-free photograph and the detection of photo-negative PMB defects as well. Similar to inferotemporal and superotemporal-direction DH, temporal DH on the PMB may be an indicator of ongoing RNFL damage that deserves close attention.
Clinical usefulness of layer-by-layer deviation maps of Spectralis OCT: comparison with Cirrus OCT
Authors: Choe Sooyeon , Jang Mirinae , Kim Young Kook , Park Ki Ho , Jeoung Jin Wook
Published: August 2022

Background/aims

To compare the diagnostic abilities of Spectralis (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) and Cirrus (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, California, USA) spectral domain–optical coherence tomography (OCT) for retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) defect detection among patients with preperimetric glaucoma (PPG) and early glaucoma (EG).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 144 eyes (47 healthy, 43 PPG, 54 EG; MD≥−6 dB) of 144 participants underwent Spectralis and Cirrus OCT on the same day. The presence of RNFL defect on red-free RNFL photography and the respective deviation maps of Spectralis and Cirrus OCT was rated. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs), sensitivities and specificities were analysed for each deviation layer to discriminate healthy eyes from PPG and EG eyes.

Results

The RNFL, ganglion cell layer (GCL) and retinal layers of Spectralis OCT and the RNFL and macular ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer of Cirrus OCT showed high diagnostic performance (all AUCs >0.8) in discriminating PPG and EG eyes from healthy eyes. Among them, RNFL layer of Cirrus OCT had the largest AUC (0.840 for PPG, 0.959 for EG) but showed no statistical differences from RNFL and retinal layers of Spectralis OCT. The inner plexiform layer (IPL) of Spectralis OCT had the smallest AUC (0.563 for PPG, 0.799 for EG).

Conclusions

The Spectralis and Cirrus OCT deviation maps showed good diagnostic abilities except for the IPL layer of Spectralis. In the clinical setting, both Spectralis and Cirrus OCT can be useful for detection of RNFL defects in PPG and EG eyes.
Greenhouse gas reduction in anaesthesia practice: a departmental environmental strategy
Authors: Wyssusek Kerstin , Chan Ka Lo , Eames Gerard , Whately Yasmin
Published: August 2022

Sustainability interventions were implemented at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) following identification of inhaled anaesthetic gases as a target for reducing medical carbon emissions. This quality improvement study assessed and evaluated the impact of sustainability interventions on the environmental and financial cost of inhaled anaesthetic gas use in order to guide future initiatives and research in reducing carbon emissions from healthcare practice.

Ethical exemption was granted from the RBWH Research Ethics Committee (EX/2021/QRBW/76078). Usage (bottles) and expenditure for desflurane and sevoflurane from January 2016 to December 2021 were obtained. Global warming potential and carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) were used to report environmental impact of volatile agents. Methods to estimate this were performed in Excel based on Campbell and Pierce methodology. An Environmental Protection Agency greenhouse gas equivalency calculator was used to convert CO2e to equivalent petrol carbon emissions and kilometres travelled by a typical passenger vehicle.

The total number of bottles of sevoflurane and desflurane purchased between January 2016 and December 2021 decreased by 34.76% from 1991 to 1299. The number of desflurane bottles purchased decreased by 95.63% from 800 to 35 bottles. The number of sevoflurane bottles purchased increased by 6.13% from 1191 bottles to 1264 bottles. This was achieved by implementing quality improvement interventions such as staff education of desflurane-sparing practices, distribution of posters and progressive removal of desflurane from operating theatres. Total carbon emission from volatile anaesthetics equalled 2326 tonnes CO2e. Combined desflurane and sevoflurane emissions decreased by 87.88%. In 2016, desflurane made up 92.39% of the annual CO2e, which steadily decreased to 33.36% in 2021. Combined sevoflurane and desflurane usage costs decreased by 58.33%.

Substantial reductions in carbon emissions from volatile anaesthetics demonstrate the significant degree to which environmentally sustainable practices have been implemented. Applying desflurane-sparing practice can heavily limit anaesthetic drug expenditure and contribution to environmental waste. This is important given the global health sector’s challenge to optimise patient outcomes in the face of global climate change crisis.