bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of substituted cyclodextrins on ibrutinib solubility and characterization of IBR-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes by isothermal titration calorimetry in solution state
Authors: Swarna Sridhar Babu , Gupta Pardeep
Published: December 2024

Ibrutinib (IBR) is a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor, a potent drug used in the treatment of various B cell malignancies. The IBR has poor bioavailability due to low aqueous solubility and high first-pass metabolism. The current research aims to enhance the IBR aqueous solubility by complexation with substituted beta-cyclodextrins and characterize the inclusion complexes using isothermal titration calorimetry. The complexation rate constants calculated from phase solubility study and isothermal titration calorimetry range from 1000 to 6600M−1, indicating stable inclusion complexes' formation. The driving forces for the formation of inclusion complexes in the solution state are characterized by isothermal titration calorimetry. The thermodynamic parameters such as negative Gibbs free energy change, negative change in enthalpy values, and positive change in entropy values indicate that the formation of inclusion complexes is a spontaneous reaction.
Back to normalities, plural? A longitudinal disaster-management perspective on Covid-19 in higher education
Authors: Spörk Julia , Ledermüller Karl , Vettori Oliver
Published: December 2024

This paper offers a fresh perspective on the COVID-19 situation of higher education institutions from a disaster-management perspective. Based on conceptual models of disaster management theory and with the help of a longitudinal multi-method, multi-perspective approach, this research contributes to better understanding the challenges during and “after” such a crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic started with a single event (e.g. campuses are shut down because of a dangerous disease) and transformed into a situation where new events (like new virus mutants) deepened the crisis during the hypothetical restabilisation phases. This includes the switch from a very coherent problem perception of all institutional actors in the beginning, to different and conflicting viewpoints and preferences over time. The paper argues that these developments contribute to the already fragmented realities of higher education institutions, e.g. by never giving institutions the time to agree on how to deal with the abundance of options in the long run.
Goldstandard TUR-P: the bigger the volume, the higher the speed, but resected volumes of more than 60g are critical
Authors: Schulte-Baukloh Heinrich , Weber Markus , Höppner Dirk , Heidenreich Holger , Schlomm Thorsten , Weinberger Sarah , Enzmann Thomas , Ralla Bernhard
Published: December 2024

Background

According to the European Association of Urology guidelines, the limit for monopolar, transurethral resection (M-TURP) in BPH- therapy is a volume of 80 g. However, whether larger prostates can also be resected transurethrally might also depend on the experience of the surgeon and especially the resected volume and speed of the resection. Little is known about the latter, and this paper aims to these factors.

Methods

This study included 540 patients who received a single-stage M-TURP. Based on the postoperative resection weight, these were divided into four groups: group 1 with 10 to 59.9 g, group 2 with 60 to 79.9 g, group 3 with 80 to 99.9 g, and group 4 with ≥ 100 g. We examined patient age, the ASA-score, the IPSS, quality of life, resection weight, time and speed, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin and serum sodium values, complications, and surgeon experience.

Results

The mean resection weight was 41.6 g, and the mean values for resection time and speed were 61.3 min and 0.7 g/min, respectively. The resection speed increased significantly with resection weight (from 0.7 to 1.3 g/min) as well as with the surgeon’s level of experience (from 0.4 to 0.9 g/min). The number of serious complications (Clavien–Dindo ≥ IIIb) increased significantly from a resection volume of 59.5 g (cut-off value).

The resection speed of M-TURP increased significantly with the resection weight and the surgeon's level of experience. Regardless of speed, resection weight of more than 60 g might increase the risk of severe complications.
Synergistic effects of a sequential recirculation electrochemical system combined with low-cost UV-LEDs on the gram-negative bacteria inactivation
Authors: Espinosa-Barrera Paula Andrea , Serna-Galvis Efraím A. , Torres-Palma Ricardo Antonio , Izquierdo-Sandoval David , Hernández Félix , Martínez-Pachón Diana , Moncayo-Lasso Alejandro
Published: December 2024

In this work, an electrochemical system combined with low-cost UV-LEDs was implemented for the inactivation of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The individual elimination of these bacteria was followed by plate counting and flow cytometry, as complementary techniques to establish the cell inactivation and non-viability, respectively. The contribution of the different parts of the disinfection system (anode, cathode, and light) was determined. In addition, the efficiency of the UV-LEDs/GDE/DSA system in the disinfection of an irrigation water sample was studied. It was found that the combination of the electrochemical system with UV-LEDs was highly synergistic (φ > 7), having low electric energy consumptions per order of magnitude (EEO: 1.13 × 10–2 and 1.55 × 10–2 kWh/m3 order). Moreover, some differences in the inactivation kinetics and synergy between E. coli and P. aeruginosa were observed and linked to the structural/morphological characteristics of the two bacteria. Remarkably, the electrochemical system combined with low-cost UV-LEDs inactivated both target microorganisms after only 2 min of treatment. The flow cytometry analyses evidenced the damage to the cell membrane of the bacteria by the simultaneous and synergistic action of the electrogenerated H2O2 and active chlorine species (ACS), plus the attacks of photo-generated reactive oxygen species. This synergistic combination in the UV-LEDs/GDE/DSA system demonstrated remarkable efficiency in the disinfection of an irrigation water sample, achieving the elimination of culturable bacteria in 45 min of treatment. The results of this research demonstrated the capacity and great potential of an easy combination of electrochemistry with UV-LEDs as an alternative system for the elimination of gram-negative bacteria in water.
Memantine/Rosuvastatin Therapy Abrogates Cognitive and Hippocampal Injury in an Experimental Model of Alzheimer's Disease in Rats: Role of TGF-β1/Smad Signaling Pathway and Amyloid-β Clearance
Authors: Zidan Esraa F. , El-Mezayen Nesrine S. , Elrewini Safaa H. , Afify Elham A. , Ali Mennatallah A.
Published: December 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder of complex pathogenesis and multiple interacting signaling pathways where amyloidal-β protein (Aβ) clearance plays a crucial role in cognitive decline. Herein, the current study investigated the possible modulatory effects of memantine/ rosuvastatin therapy on TGF-β1/p-Smad/p21 signaling pathway and their correlation to the blood brain barrier transporters involved in Aβ-clearance and microRNAs as a novel molecular mechanism in AD treatment. AD was induced by a single intracerebroventricular streptozotocin injection (ICV-STZ, 3 mg/kg) in rats and drug therapy was continued for 28 days after AD induction. Efficacy was monitored by applying a battery of behavioral assessments, as well as biochemical, histopathological, molecular and gene expression techniques. The upregulated TGF-β1-signaling in the untreated rats was found to be highly correlated to transporters and microRNAs governing Aβ-efflux; ABCA1/miRNA-26 and LRP1/miRNA-205 expressions, rather than RAGE/miRNA-185 controlling Aβ-influx; an effect that was opposed by the tested drugs and was found to be correlated with the abolished TGF-β1-signaling as well. Combined memantine/rosuvastatin therapy ameliorated the STZ evoked decreases in escape latency and number of crossovers in the Morris water maze test, % spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test, and discrimination and recognition indices in the object recognition test. The evoked behavioral responses were directly related to the β-amyloid accumulation and the alteration in its clearance. Additionally, drug treatment increased brain glutathione and decreased malondialdehyde levels. These findings were histopathologically confirmed by a marked reduction of gliosis and restoration of neuronal integrity in the CA1 region of the hippocampus of the AD rats. These findings implicated that the memantine/rosuvastatin combination could offer a new therapeutic potential for AD management by abrogating the TGF-β1/p-Smad2/p21 pathway and regulating Aβ-clearance.

Graphical Abstract
Corrosion of metals in calcium nitrate based phase change material
Authors: Červenková Andrea , Košťúr Roman , Danielik Vladimír
Published: December 2024

Phase change materials are assumed to be a promising way of a storage of the low-potential heat. In the paper, the corrosion behaviour of carbon steel, CuZn37 brass and aluminium was studied in the assumed phase change medium at 50 °C and 60 °C. The medium was a eutectic mixture of 26.09 wt% water, 63.34 wt% calcium nitrate, 10.57 wt% potassium nitrate with fusion temperature of 37.85 °C. Corrosion rate was studied via mass loss and the steel specimens were analysed after the study. It was found that even though the corrosion rate of carbon steel and aluminium is small (4.26 mg cm−2 year−1 and 1.19 mg cm−2 year−1, respectively, at 50 °C), the metals are susceptible to pitting corrosion. Brass has the lowest corrosion rate from the studied metals (0.88 mg cm−2 year−1 at 50 °C); however, it is a subject of selective corrosion with zinc preferentially dissolved. None of the metals studied is suitable for the use in the phase change materials.
Local climate action from the middle-out: the social potential of craft guilds to facilitate low-carbon installations in Germany
Authors: Wehden Simon , Janda Kathryn B. , Jansen Jana , Creutzig Felix
Published: December 2024

Shortages of skilled workers and special expertise in the crafts and trades hamper the implementation of low-carbon transitions in many countries. However, research on effective governance arrangements targeting this ‘installation bottleneck’ is limited. To fill this gap, we adopt a Middle-Out Perspective (MOP) and use rich qualitative data including in-depth interviews to study the role of craft guilds within Germany's low-carbon transition, particularly in rooftop photovoltaic and heat pump installation. Our analysis demonstrates that guilds occupy pivotal ‘upper middle actor’ positions to resolve the ‘installation bottleneck’ from the middle-out. Situated between policymaking and on-the-ground installation, guilds have unique agency and capacity qualities deriving from preferential access to the local implementers of low-carbon transitions and legal commissions with critical tasks including training, informing, and associating installers. However, we find that guilds suffer from resource constraints, membership declines, and a lack of deliberate activation. Informal power structures and deficits of change makers exacerbate guilds’ propensity for inertia while unstable framework conditions and the dearth of strategic engagements leave guilds inactivated. Our extended MOP framework of agency, capacity, and propensity allows researchers and policymakers to attend to potentials and trade-offs between these qualities. By recognising the contextual social sphere of installation as potential, policymakers can design more effective implementation strategies that gain people’s support by ‘meeting them where they are’.
‘More or Less Conscious’: Consciousness To-Day and To-Morrow
Authors: Saunders Max
Published: December 2024

Much leading thought about consciousness in the inter-war period was associated with the British intellectual C. K. Ogden. His International Library of Psychology, Philosophy and Scientific Method included landmark textbooks by major psychologists including Adler, Jung, Koffka, and Piaget. His journal Psyche, included work about Behaviorism, brain chemistry, and essays such as ‘Are we becoming more conscious?’ by literary critic I. A. Richards. The chapter surveys the work from Ogden’s projects which demonstrates the greatest acuity and foresight about questions concerning consciousness which preoccupy us now. It concentrates on Ogden’s other book series – especially To-Day and To-Morrow. Some of the more provocative new thinking about consciousness is to be found among its speculations on the future. In one of the pioneering transhumanist texts in this series, J. D. Bernal’s The World, the Flesh and the Devil invents the electronic cyborg. He imagines increasing longevity by transferring brains to machine hosts; hot-wiring them to instruments providing extra senses – X-ray, chemistry, but above all radio. This would enable them to be in direct wireless contact with everyone else – effectively the internet before the invention of the computer. Such interconnectivity makes imaginable a form of collective consciousness. Such ideas mesh with new thinking about language and criticism; fields in which Ogden and Richards were also pioneers. These writers poised before the threshold of computing thus raise questions which anticipate work in subsequent neuroscience, and also our moment at the dawn of Artificial Intelligence, and the questions that raises about whether consciousness can be extended, synthesized, or indeed detected.
Exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and higher education: opportunities and challenges in the context of geomatics education
Authors: Retscher Guenther
Published: December 2024

In an era of rapid technological advances, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important in higher education. The use of AI tools presents both great potential and significant challenges, especially with regard to examinations and performance assessments. This paper provides a compact insight into the current state of development on AI in university education. Experiences are shared including questions and concerns about AI in higher education teaching. The role of AI in higher education is explored, focusing on its potential benefits and challenges, particularly in examinations and performance assessments. It provides insights into the current state of AI development in universities, highlighting its diverse applications and the associated ethical and practical considerations. Experiences and perspectives from educators are shared, reflecting both optimism about AI’s ability to enhance learning outcomes and concerns regarding fairness, transparency, and privacy. The paper emphasizes the need for responsible integration of AI in higher education in engineering disciplines, such as geomatics, balancing innovation with ethical considerations to promote equity and excellence in teaching and learning.
Ranking of Health Problems and Prioritization of Cancer Education Topics by African American Communities in South Carolina
Authors: Melikam E. Sylvia , Magwood Gayenell S. , Ford Marvella , Salley Judith , Abraham-Hilaire Latecia , Nelson Joni , McCrary-Quarles Audrey , Berry Cammie , Sirizi Delaram , Cartmell Kathleen B.
Published: December 2024

Despite landmark breakthroughs in cancer research, African American adults (AA) bear the highest cancer burden compared to other racial groups in the United States (US). AA adults have twice the likelihood of dying from prostate and uterine cancers compared to White adults, suggesting that there are fundamental issues yet to be addressed when developing and implementing cancer-preventative programs for AA communities. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) empowers community members to identify and prioritize their health problems and preferred strategies to tackle these issues. In alignment with the CBPR approach, the South Carolina Cancer Disparities Research Center (SC CADRE) undertook a study to inform cancer research priorities and interventions. A survey designed by the SC CADRE team to assess perceptions about health problems (cancer risk factors), prioritization of cancer education topics, and attitudes related to cancer prevention was completed by predominantly AA community members in South Carolina (N = 179). Participants had a mean age of 51.59 ± 16.53 years; the majority were AA (72.49%), females (76.44%), had bachelor’s/graduate degrees (66.29%), and were from the Lowcountry coastal region of the state (85.26%). Obesity emerged as the greatest health concern, followed by poor diet and low physical activity. The top three priorities for cancer education were to learn about causes of cancer, strategies for healthy eating, and how to access healthcare. These findings could inform cancer education and intervention programs to address the top priority health needs identified by AA communities in South Carolina. They may also be relevant in other states, especially in rural southern parts of the USA.
It would feel weird to not drive my car! Exploring the role of habits in public policy acceptance of carbon taxations
Authors: Linder Noah , Sörqvist Patrik , Lindvall Daniel , Jagers Sverker , Barthel Stephan
Published: December 2024

This study aims to expand the understanding of public acceptance of carbon taxes by exploring the role of habits. Habits play a pivotal role in guiding our behaviors and reasoning and can even influence our self perception and identity but remain an underexplored variable in relation to public policy acceptance. We employed a large scale (N > 5200) national survey to measure public acceptance of higher carbon taxation in Sweden, also capturing car driving habits, car usage, and other relevant variables. The findings show that habit strength is negatively correlated with policy acceptance, regardless of self reported driving distance, while also appearing to moderate the relationship between policy acceptance and environmental concern and political leaning, variables previously shown to be of relevance. The study suggests that the influence of habits needs to be recognized to better understand the formation of climate policy acceptance, and exploring this perspective paves the way for future research.
Cultivating anti-racism in the classroom and beyond through collaborative learning in the environmental sciences
Authors: Mgbara Whitney , Fanshel Rosalie Zdzienicka , Esquivel Kenzo , Shannon Natasha , Parker-Shames Phoebe , Elias Damian O. , Washington Lorenzo , Guzman Aidee
Published: December 2024

Spurred by nationwide protests against anti-Black violence in the summer of 2020, academic departments across the USA saw an uptick in efforts to integrate belonging, diversity, equity, justice, and inclusion initiatives into their programs. In this vein, graduate students in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management at the University of California, Berkeley, developed and led a semester-long course, “Critical Engagements in Anti-Racist Environmental Scholarship.” The course cultivated anti-racist mindsets through collaborative learning and action projects. We designed and taught the class as a team of doctoral students, and course participants consisted of faculty, staff, postdoctoral scholars, and other graduate students, thus disrupting traditional academic power structures. In this article, we draw on our experiences from two years of developing and teaching this course. We begin by outlining our theory of change, depicted as a tree rooted in our pedagogical approach, which ultimately bears the fruit of anti-racist mindsets and actions. We then provide an overview of our pedagogical approach, which includes attending to the roots of curriculum, classroom structures, and teaching practices. Next, we highlight the four key elements of the course’s success: (1) Centering Black voices and experiences, (2) Flattening academic hierarchies, (3) Fostering a community of learners, and (4) Developing action-oriented mindsets to sustain long-term anti-racist praxis. To conclude, we reflect on the successes and challenges of this approach two years later. Overall, this article shares our experiences conducting an environmental sciences-specific version of this course, with the understanding that this model can be adopted by other departments seeking to implement anti-racist praxis through coursework and long-form professional development training for academics.
DNA methylation effects of halogenated and organophosphate-based flame retardants: a mini-review
Authors: Sharma Sunil , Dasgupta Subham
Published: December 2024

Flame retardants are compounds that are extensively used in household products, building materials, automobiles, and electrical goods to suppress the intensity of flames that will increase escape time during a fire. The fundamental issue with these chemicals is that a lot of them are additives, migrate from end-use items into the environment, and exert harmful effects on living organisms. A critical mechanism through which xenobiotics cause adverse effects is epigenetic modifications, which can have profound effect on development and physiology. As we know, the epigenome regulates gene expression through various modifications like DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. Therefore, disruption of epigenetic control by environmental contaminants is an emerging area of concern to understand their impact on disease vulnerability and health status. DNA methylation is the most studied and key epigenetic regulator during embryogenesis and tissue homeostasis. It predominantly occurs at CpG sites and can cause gene silencing and affect downstream signaling by preventing transcription. Aberrant methylation patterns are related to impaired early embryonic development, neurological disorders, metabolic dysregulation, oxidative stress, and cancer. This review focuses on the ability of flame retardants to affect DNA methylation patterns in the genome and related disorders in exposed organisms.
Study on the energy evolution process and damage constitutive model of concrete–granite composite specimens under uniaxial compression load
Authors: Dong Zhuo , Lang Yingxian , Gong Bin , Yuan Ruifu , Liang Zhengzhao , Wang Shanyong , Tang Chun’an
Published: December 2024

The interaction between concrete structures and rock foundations is a crucial research topic for assessing safety and stability in geotechnical and underground engineering. The uniaxial compression tests were conducted on different combination modes (concrete component heights (Hc), interface inclination angle (β), and coarse aggregate contents) to investigate their impact on the mechanical and energy response of concrete–granite composite specimens (CGCSs). This study categorized three failure modes: only concrete component failure (Hc = 80 mm), shear failure along the interface (β = 30°), and simultaneous failure of both components (other combination modes). The fractal dimension (Df) of surface cracks positively correlates with Hc, while the compressive strength (σCGCS) and stiffness (ECGCS) exhibit an inverse trend. The value of Df and σCGCS both exhibit a ''U-shaped'' trend when β ranges from 0° to 90°, whereas the value of ECGCS decreases linearly. Moreover, The value of Df and ECGCS positively correlate with coarse aggregate contents, while the value of σCGCS trends vary non-monotonically increases. The coarse aggregate contents have few effects on energy conversion. Typical brittle failure (β = 0°, β = 30°, and Hc = 20 mm) and ductile failure (other combination modes) are observed. Energy evolution characteristics offer quantitative insight into the damage evolution processes of CGCSs. The piecewise damage constitutive model based on dissipation energy can accurately describe the mechanical response of CGCSs. This study enhances understanding of the mechanical properties, failure characteristics, and energy evolution process of CGCSs under complex combination modes.
Harnessing the integration of chat GPT in higher education: the evaluation of stakeholders sentiments using NLP techniques
Authors: Altamimi Abdulaziz
Published: December 2024

Educational settings are gradually adopting Chatgpt for various purposes, but the effects it generates for different users have not received enough attention. This research study aims to fill a gap in the existing literature by evaluating the perceived attitudes of participants, including teachers, students, and administrators, towards the use of Chatgpt in learning. We employed a convenience sampling approach to gather data from 500 participants, which included 200 students, 150 teachers, and 150 administrators from various research settings. We collected data through structured interviews and social media analysis and conducted sentiment analysis using text mining and natural language processing (NLP). We found that 72% of students, 63% of teachers, and 75% of administrators have a positive attitude towards Chatgpt, whereas 18, 22, and 17% have a neutral attitude, and 10, 15, and 8% have a negative attitude towards it. We employed supervised learning techniques in sentiment classification and sentiment analysis methods such as VADER and Text Blob. These results demonstrate a high overall acceptance rate and particularly high positive sentiment among administrators and students, potentially due to their high interest in the tool’s potential to enhance educational experiences and administrative processes. This research is unique because it focuses on multiple stakeholders and combines quantitative survey results with qualitative data from social media. The findings provide relevant recommendations for legislative and educational bodies that intend to incorporate AI-transforming tools, Chatgpt, into curricula and management systems. The high positive score indicates that most educational stakeholders are willing and keen to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in their institutions.
Detecting, Attributing, and Projecting Global Marine Ecosystem and Fisheries Change: FishMIP 2.0
Authors: Blanchard Julia L. , Novaglio Camilla , Maury Olivier , Harrison Cheryl S. , Petrik Colleen M. , Fierro‐Arcos Denisse , Ortega‐Cisneros Kelly , Bryndum‐Buchholz Andrea , Eddy Tyler D. , Heneghan Ryan , Roberts Kelsey , Schewe Jacob , Bianchi Daniele , Guiet Jerome , Daniel van Denderen P. , Palacios‐Abrantes Juliano , Liu Xiao , Stock Charles A. , Rousseau Yannick , Büchner Matthias , Adekoya Ezekiel O. , Bulman Cathy , Cheung William , Christensen Villy , Coll Marta , Capitani Leonardo , Datta Samik , Fulton Elizabeth A. , Fuster Alba , Garza Victoria , Lengaigne Matthieu , Lindmark Max , Murphy Kieran , Ouled‐Cheikh Jazel , Prasad Sowdamini S. , Oliveros‐Ramos Ricardo , Reum Jonathan C. , Rynne Nina , Scherrer Kim J. N. , Shin Yunne‐Jai , Steenbeek Jeroen , Woodworth‐Jefcoats Phoebe , Wu Yan‐Lun , Tittensor Derek P.
Published: December 2024

There is an urgent need for models that can robustly detect past and project future ecosystem changes and risks to the services that they provide to people. The Fisheries and Marine Ecosystem Model Intercomparison Project (FishMIP) was established to develop model ensembles for projecting long‐term impacts of climate change on fisheries and marine ecosystems while informing policy at spatio‐temporal scales relevant to the Inter‐Sectoral Impact Model Intercomparison Project (ISIMIP) framework. While contributing FishMIP models have improved over time, large uncertainties in projections remain, particularly in coastal and shelf seas where most of the world's fisheries occur. Furthermore, previous FishMIP climate impact projections have been limited by a lack of global standardized historical fishing data, low resolution of coastal processes, and uneven capabilities across the FishMIP community to dynamically model fisheries. These features are needed to evaluate how reliably the FishMIP ensemble captures past ecosystem states ‐ a crucial step for building confidence in future projections. To address these issues, we have developed FishMIP 2.0 comprising a two‐track framework for: (a) Model evaluation and attribution of past changes and (b) future climate and socioeconomic scenario projections. Key advances include improved historical climate forcing, which captures oceanographic features not previously resolved, and standardized global fishing forcing to test fishing effects systematically across models. FishMIP 2.0 is a crucial step toward a detection and attribution framework for changing marine ecosystems and toward enhanced policy relevance through increased confidence in future ensemble projections. Our results will help elucidate pathways toward achieving sustainable development goals.
Massive Antarctic Icebergs May Calve at Random
Authors: Dzombak Rebecca
Published: December 2024

The first analysis of extreme calving events in Antarctica finds no correlation with climate change, highlighting the significance of common, smaller calving events for ice loss and instability.
Bringing Climate Change’s Effects on Atmospheric Circulation to Light
Authors: Scharping Nathaniel
Published: December 2024

A lengthening observational record is being used to test predictions and improve understanding of the mechanisms behind changing circulation.
Telescopes Catch the Aftermath of an Energetic Planetary Collision
Authors: Hill Marta
Published: December 2024

A planetary collision 1,800 light-years away birthed a body that has cooled in unexpected ways.
Cold Days Bring Fast Ice
Authors: Sidik Saima
Published: December 2024

Thirty-seven years of observations reveal the meteorological conditions that lead to persistent, thick fast ice in Antarctica.
Trace Element Emissions Vary With Lava Flow Age and Thermal Evolution During the Fagradalsfjall 2021–2023 Eruptions, Iceland
Authors: Wainman L. , Ilyinskaya E. , Pfeffer M. , Mandon C. , Bali E. , Edwards B. A. , Kleine‐Marshall B. I. , Gudjonsdottir S. R. , Cotterill A. , Scott S. W. , Wieser P. , Stefánsson A. , Nicholson E. J. , Sepulveda‐Araya J. , Hammond S. J. , Kunz B. E. , Jenner F. , Gunnarsson J. R. , Aiuppa A. , Burton M. , Mather T. A.
Published: December 2024

Basaltic fissure eruptions emit volatile and environmentally reactive gases and particulate matter (PM) into the lower troposphere (e.g., SO2, HCl, and HF in the gas phase; Se, As, Pb as complexes in the PM phase). Lava flows from fissure eruptions can be spatially extensive, but the composition and fluxes of their emissions are poorly characterized compared to those from main vent(s). Using uncrewed aircraft systems‐mounted (drone) samplers and ground‐based remote Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, we investigated the down‐flow compositional evolution of emissions from active lava flows during the Fagradalsfjall 2021–2023 eruptions. The calculated fluxes of volatile trace metals from lava flows are considerable relative to both main vent degassing and anthropogenic fluxes in Iceland. We demonstrate a fractionation in major gas emissions with decreasing S/halogen ratio down‐flow. This S‐Cl fractionation is reflected in the trace element degassing profile, where the abundance of predominantly sulfur‐complexing elements (e.g., Se, Te, As, Pb) decreases more rapidly in down‐flow emissions relative to elements complexing as chlorides (e.g., Cu, Rb, Cs), oxides (e.g., La, Ce) and hydroxides (e.g., Fe, Mg, Al, Ti). Using thermochemical modeling, we explain this relationship through temperature and composition dependent element speciation as the lava flow ages and cools. As a result, some chloride‐complexing elements (such as Cu) become relatively more abundant in emissions further down‐flow, compared to emissions from the main vent or more proximal lava flows. This variability in down‐flow element fluxes suggests that the output of metals to the environment may change depending on lava flow age and thermal evolution.
Superconducting Gravimeter Observations Show That a Satellite‐Derived Snow Depth Image Improves the Simulation of the Snow Water Equivalent Evolution in a High Alpine Site
Authors: Koch F. , Gascoin S. , Achmüller K. , Schattan P. , Wetzel K.‐F. , Deschamps‐Berger C. , Lehning M. , Rehm T. , Schulz K. , Voigt C.
Published: December 2024

The lack of accurate information on the spatiotemporal variations of snow water equivalent (SWE) in mountain catchments remains a key problem in snow hydrology and water resources management. This is partly because there is no sensor to measure SWE beyond local scale. At Mt. Zugspitze, Germany, a superconducting gravimeter senses the gravity effect of the seasonal snow, reflecting the temporal evolution of SWE in a few kilometers scale radius. We used this new observation to evaluate two configurations of the Alpine3D distributed snow model. In the default run, the model was forced with meteorological station data. In the second run, we applied precipitation correction based on an 8 m resolution snow depth image derived from satellite observations (Pléiades). The snow depth image strongly improved the simulation of the snowpack gravity effect during the melt season. This result suggests that satellite observations can enhance SWE analyses in mountains with limited infrastructure.
Diurnal and Seasonal Variations of Sporadic Meteors Radiant Observed by Meteor Radars
Authors: Luo Jiahui , Gong Yun , Zhang Shaodong , Ma Zheng , Zhou Qihou , Bao Jiaxin
Published: December 2024

Based on data collected from three meteor radars located at Mohe (MH, 53.5°N, 122.3°E), Wuhan (WH, 30.5°N, 114.6°E), and Ledong (LD, 18.4°N, 109.0°E), the diurnal and seasonal variations of the meteor counts, azimuth‐zenith distributions of meteors, and sporadic meteor radiant are investigated. For the diurnal variation, meteor counts typically peak around 4 local time (LT) and reach their lowest levels near 17 LT, and the azimuth of the maximum meteor densities exhibits a clockwise rotation with LT. Such a characteristic is determined to be due to the domination of meteors from the helion direction during the daytime and from the antihelion direction during the nighttime. Additionally, three other meteor sources, north apex, south apex, and north toroidal have contributed to detections across all three radar sites. Distinct seasonal variations in meteor counts and azimuth‐zenith distribution are observed at MH while such variations are less evident at WH and LD. The seasonal variation of the radiant distributions displays significant distinct characteristics among different latitudinal observations. These diurnal and seasonal variations can be well explained by the change in the relative positions of the five meteor sources in the radars' local frame of reference. Our study enhances our ability to predict the characteristics of meteor counts and azimuth‐zenith distributions observed by meteor radar at any given time and location.
Ionospheric Irregularities Coinciding With the 2023 Typhoon Saola: A Multi‐Instrument Study
Authors: Nie Wenfeng , Wang Fangyuan , Qiao Zhizhong , Xu Tianhe , Wang Yong , Ye Mingzhu , Hu Lianhuan , Liu Tong
Published: December 2024

Typhoons exert significant influences on the ionosphere through atmospheric waves, ultimately affecting radio signals in the L‐band of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Due to the limitations of ground observations, the mechanisms and full impacts of typhoon‐induced ionospheric variation remain to be explored. To address this gap, we embarked on a challenging expedition, employing a shipborne ionospheric scintillation monitoring receiver (ISMR) to gather data near the trajectory of Typhoon Saola during August and September 2023. The results revealed prominent amplitude scintillation and total electron content fluctuations in GNSS satellite detections, particularly during sunset from 29 to 31 August 2023. The findings are cross‐validated with ground GNSS stations, high‐frequency radar and the Swarm satellite, confirming the presence of equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs). These EPBs have demonstrable effects on GNSS signals, ultimately influencing the precision of positioning performance. By examining the influence of the neutral wind field on atmospheric gravity waves triggered by typhoons, we elucidated how these waves impact the ionosphere, ultimately leading to the formation of plasma bubbles.
Magmatic Evolution of the Marius Hills, Rümker Hills, and Gardner Volcanic Complexes on the Moon: Constraints From Topography and Gravity
Authors: Yin Haolin , Huang Qian , Zhang Feng , Geng Meixia , Chen Yuchao , Zhao Jiannan
Published: December 2024

Marius Hills, Rümker Hills, and Gardner are three prominent volcanic complexes on the lunar nearside characterized by well‐preserved elevated topography, highly concentrated domes/cones, and positive gravity anomalies. Here, we perform a comparative study of the geology and geophysics of these three volcanic complexes using multi‐source remote‐sensing data to better understand the volcanism diversity and magmatic evolution of the lunar nearside. Uniform and precise feature extraction methods are used to explore the morphological and geochemical characteristics of the volcanic complexes and their quasi‐circular small shields (domes/cones). A new generalized approach based on three‐dimensional (3D) gravity forward modeling is utilized to estimate the subsurface magma intrusion volumes. The results are about 2.63–6.65 × 104, 1.48–3.86 × 104, and 2.75–4.22 × 104 km3 for the Marius Hills, Rümker Hills, and Gardner, respectively. Together with their extrusion volumes, Marius Hills has the largest magnitude of magmatic activity and the lowest ratio of intrusive versus extrusive volumes. Taking into account their geological and geophysical diversities, we propose three magma intrusion and extrusion schematic models and suggest that potassium, rare earth elements, and phosphorus (KREEP) may serve as an important driving force for the long‐term and large‐magnitude volcanism in Marius Hills, while the relatively short‐lived and small‐scale volcanism in Rümker Hills and Gardner may not be related to KREEP. Future geochemical studies of basalt samples from the Marius Hills region may provide additional clues to the role of KREEP in lunar nearside volcanism and thermal evolution.
TGFβ signaling sensitizes MEKi-resistant human melanoma to targeted therapy-induced apoptosis
Authors: Loos Benjamin , Salas-Bastos Adrian , Nordin Anna , Debbache Julien , Stierli Salome , Cheng Phil F. , Rufli Stefanie , Wyss Conrad , Levesque Mitchell P. , Dummer Reinhard , Wong Wendy Wei-Lynn , Pascolo Steve , Cantù Claudio , Sommer Lukas
Published: December 2024

The TGFβ signaling pathway is known for its pleiotropic functions in a plethora of biological processes. In melanoma, TGFβ signaling promotes invasiveness and metastasis formation. However, its involvement in the response to therapy is controversial. While several studies have linked TGFβ signaling to elevated resistance to targeted therapy in melanoma, separate findings have indicated a favorable treatment response through TGFβ-mediated increase of cell death. We now found that the outcome of TGFβ signaling in the context of targeted therapy is dose dependent. Unlike low doses, high levels of TGFβ signal activation induce apoptosis upon simultaneous MAPK pathway inhibition, even in targeted therapy resistant melanoma cell lines. Using transcriptomic analyses, combined with genomic target identification of the critical TGFβ signaling effector SMAD4, we demonstrate that parallel activation of TGFβ signaling and MAPK pathway inhibition causes a complete switch of TGFβ target genes from promoting pro-invasive processes to fueling pro-apoptotic pathways. Investigations of underlying mechanisms identified a novel apoptosis-inducing gene signature. Functional validation of signature members highlighted a central role of the pro-apoptotic BCL2 family member BCL2L11 (BIM) in mediating apoptosis in this condition. Using a modified, synthetic version of the TGFB1 mRNA for intra-tumoral injections, we additionally showcase a potential therapeutic application of this treatment combination.
Introducing a global database of entomopathogenic fungi and their host associations
Authors: De Wint Frederik C. , Nicholson Soun , Koid Qian Qun , Zahra Shafia , Chestney-Claassen Georgia , Seelan Jaya Seelan Sathiya , Xie Jie , Xing Shuang , Fayle Tom M. , Haelewaters Danny
Published: December 2024

Pathogens significantly influence natural and agricultural ecosystems, playing a crucial role in the regulation of species populations and maintaining biodiversity. Entomopathogenic fungi (EF), particularly within the Hypocreales order, exemplify understudied pathogens that infect insects and other arthropods globally. Despite their ecological importance, comprehensive data on EF host specificity and geographical distribution are lacking. To address this, we present EntomoFun 1.0, an open-access database centralizing global records of EF–insect associations in Hypocreales. This database includes 1,791 records detailing EF species, insect host taxa, countries of occurrence, life stages of hosts, and information sources. EntomoFun 1.0 is constructed based on 600 literature sources, as well as herbarium specimens of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew. This database is intended to test hypotheses, identify knowledge gaps, and stimulate future research. Contents of the EntomoFun 1.0 database are visualized with a global map, taxonomic chart, bipartite community network, and graphs.
The International Bathymetric Chart of the Arctic Ocean Version 5.0
Authors: Jakobsson Martin , Mohammad Rezwan , Karlsson Marcus , Salas-Romero Silvia , Vacek Florian , Heinze Florian , Bringensparr Caroline , Castro Carlos F. , Johnson Paul , Kinney Juliet , Cardigos Sara , Bogonko Michael , Accettella Daniela , Amblas David , An Lu , Bohan Aileen , Brandt Angelika , Bünz Stefan , Canals Miquel , Casamor José Luis , Coakley Bernard , Cornish Natalie , Danielson Seth , Demarte Maurizio , Di Franco Davide , Dickson Mary-Lynn , Dorschel Boris , Dowdeswell Julian A. , Dreutter Simon , Fremand Alice C. , Hall John K. , Hally Bryan , Holland David , Hong Jon Kuk , Ivaldi Roberta , Knutz Paul C. , Krawczyk Diana W. , Kristofferson Yngve , Lastras Galderic , Leck Caroline , Lucchi Renata G. , Masetti Giuseppe , Morlighem Mathieu , Muchowski Julia , Nielsen Tove , Noormets Riko , Plaza-Faverola Andreia , Prescott Megan M. , Purser Autun , Rasmussen Tine L. , Rebesco Michele , Rignot Eric , Rysgaard Søren , Silyakova Anna , Snoeijs-Leijonmalm Pauline , Sørensen Aqqaluk , Straneo Fiammetta , Sutherland David A. , Tate Alex J. , Travaglini Paola , Trenholm Nicole , van Wijk Esmee , Wallace Luke , Willis Josh K. , Wood Michael , Zimmermann Mark , Zinglersen Karl B. , Mayer Larry
Published: December 2024

Knowledge about seafloor depth, or bathymetry, is crucial for various marine activities, including scientific research, offshore industry, safety of navigation, and ocean exploration. Mapping the central Arctic Ocean is challenging due to the presence of perennial sea ice, which limits data collection to icebreakers, submarines, and drifting ice stations. The International Bathymetric Chart of the Arctic Ocean (IBCAO) was initiated in 1997 with the goal of updating the Arctic Ocean bathymetric portrayal. The project team has since released four versions, each improving resolution and accuracy. Here, we present IBCAO Version 5.0, which offers a resolution four times as high as Version 4.0, with 100 × 100 m grid cells compared to 200 × 200 m. Over 25% of the Arctic Ocean is now mapped with individual depth soundings, based on a criterion that considers water depth. Version 5.0 also represents significant advancements in data compilation and computing techniques. Despite these improvements, challenges such as sea-ice cover and political dynamics still hinder comprehensive mapping.
A decade of declines in toothed whale densities following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Authors: Frasier Kaitlin E. , Kadifa Macey A. , Solsona Berga Alba , Hildebrand John A. , Wiggins Sean M. , Garrison Lance P. , Frouin-Mouy Héloïse , Gracia Adolfo , Serrano Arturo , Hodge Lynne E. W. , Wall Carrie C. , Le Hénaff Matthieu , Soldevilla Melissa S.
Published: December 2024

Shortly after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill began in April 2010, a widely spaced passive acoustic monitoring array was deployed in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico to document the impacts of this unprecedentedly large and deep offshore oil spill on oceanic marine mammals. The array was subsequently maintained for over a decade. Here we document decadal density declines for seven of eight monitored species groups, including sperm whales (up to 31%), beaked whales (up to 83%), and small delphinids (up to 43%). Declines were observed both within and outside of the surface oil footprint. Though not conclusively linked to the oil spill, the broad spatial and temporal scale of these declines observed for disparate marine mammal species is consistent with Deepwater Horizon impacts. These declines have exceeded and outlasted post-spill damage assessment predictions, suggesting that the offshore ecosystem impacts of Deepwater Horizon may have been larger than previously thought.
Cell-selective zwitterionic parylene with intrinsic antifouling, softness, and conformability
Authors: Zhang Shouyan , Zhao Huiqing , Qian Sihao , Zhai Yuzhe , Zhang Shuhua , Geng Zhi , Zhu Bo
Published: December 2024

Schematic depicting the antibiofouling and cell-affinity properties of biomimetic zwitterionic parylene films.
Ultra-stretchable, self-recoverable, notch-insensitive, self-healable and adhesive hydrogel enabled by synergetic hydrogen and dipole–dipole crosslinking
Authors: Yuan Wanting , He Yi , Liang Qianqian , Lv Hongyi , Wang Ziqi , Wu Haitao , Wu Jinrong , Zhao Lijuan , Wang Yi
Published: December 2024

This work presents a hydrogel with a dual crosslinked network of hydrogen bonds and dipole–dipole interactions, achieving 9000% stretchability, self-healing, adhesion and conductivity, making it ideal for wearable sensors and bioelectronics.
Facile synthesis of Co3Te4–Fe3C for efficient overall water-splitting in an alkaline medium
Authors: Abdul M. , Zhang Miao , Ma Tianjun , Alotaibi Nouf H. , Mohammad Saikh , Luo Yin-Sheng
Published: December 2024

This work introduces a novel design combining carbide (Fe3C) and chalcogenide (Co3Te4) materials for robust catalytic mechanisms in water electrolysis, ensuring high performance and durability for hydrogen production.
A novel modified PI separator with enhanced dendrite suppression, puncture prevention and improved size stability for room-temperature sodium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Jiao Xiaoguang , Yang Chao , Ma Kaixuan , Feng Caihong , Jiao Qingze , Zhao Yun
Published: December 2024

A polyimide copolymerized with polyether (PI–PEO) separator was prepared. The PI–PEO separator demonstrates enhanced dendrite suppression, puncture prevention and improved size stability.
Functional carbon-based covalent bridging bonds unlocking superior sodium-ion storage
Authors: Zhu Jinliang , Guo Manchuan , Hu Miao , Fu Fang , Qiu Kerou , Wang Shijian , Wang Guoxiu , Sun Bing
Published: December 2024

This review focuses on the transformative role of the carbon-based covalent bridging bonds in the field of sodium-ion batteries, providing valuable insights for advancing the next-generation high-performance sodium-ion batteries.