bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“O.R. GOES GREEN”: a first step toward reducing our carbon footprint in the operating room and hospital
Authors: Leone Nicola , Scozzari Gitana , Olandese Francesco , Horeman Tim , Passera Roberto , Arezzo Alberto , Morino Mario
Published: March 2024

Hospitals in Europe produce approximately 6 million tons of medical waste annually, about one-third of this originating in operating rooms. Most of it is solid waste, which can be recycled if bodily fluids do not contaminate it. Only 2–3% of hospital waste must be disposed of as infectious waste, and this is much lower than the 50–70% of garbage in the biohazard waste stream. In June 2021, at the main operating room of the Department of General Surgery of the University of Turin, we began a separate collection program for materials consisting of plastic, paper, TNT (material not contaminated by bodily fluids), and biohazardous waste. We calculated the number of boxes and the weight of special waste disposed produced every month in one operating room for 18 months. The monthly number of Sanibox and the monthly weight of biohazardous waste decreased during the observation period. The reduction trend was not constant but showed variations during the 18 months. Direct proportionality between number of low-complexity procedures and production of biohazardous waste was found (p = 0.050). We observed an optimization in the collection and filling of plastic, paper and TNT boxes separated and sent for recycling. One of the barriers to recycling hospital waste, and surgical waste in particular, is the failure to separate infectious waste from clean waste. A careful separate collection of waste in the operating room is the first step in reducing environmental pollution and management costs for the disposal of hospital waste.
Pilonidal sinus: an overview of historical and current management modalities
Authors: Tam Adrian , Steen Christopher J. , Chua Jonathan , Yap Raymond J.
Published: March 2024

Pilonidal disease is a common condition that commonly affects the younger adult population and is often seen in both the general practice and the hospital setting. Multiple treatment methods have gained and lost popularity over the last several decades, but more recent intervention principles show promising results. This article details the different methods of managing acute and chronic pilonidal disease ranging from treatments in the primary care setting to those in hospital theatres, with special attention to newer modalities of minimally invasive interventions. As a chronic illness that often affects those of working age, pilonidal disease can confer significant morbidity especially, but not limited to, a substantial amount of time off work. Treatment of chronic disease in particular, has evolved from midline techniques to off-midline techniques, with more recent developments offering promising solutions to reduce acute flare ups and hasten recovery time.
The intracellular visualization of exogenous DNA in fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Greitens Christina , Leroux Jean-Christophe , Burger Michael
Published: March 2024

In the development of non-viral gene delivery vectors, it is essential to reliably localize and quantify transfected DNA inside the cell. To track DNA, fluorescence microscopy methods are commonly applied. These mostly rely on fluorescently labeled DNA, DNA binding proteins fused to a fluorescent protein, or fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). In addition, co-stainings are often used to determine the colocalization of the DNA in specific cellular compartments, such as the endolysosomes or the nucleus. We provide an overview of these DNA tracking methods, advice on how they should be combined, and indicate which co-stainings or additional methods are required to draw precise conclusions from a DNA tracking experiment. Some emphasis is given to the localization of exogenous DNA inside the nucleus, which is the last step of DNA delivery. We argue that suitable tools which allow for the nuclear detection of faint signals are still missing, hampering the rational development of more efficient non-viral transfection systems.

Graphical abstract

The intracellular visualization of exogenous DNA in fluorescence microscopy. Created with BioRender.com.
Multi-wavelength Fluorescence Monitoring of Faecal Contamination in Waters: A Laboratory-based Quantification
Authors: Offenbaume Kane L. , Bertone Edoardo , Chen Dechao , Li Qin , Stratton Helen , Stewart Rodney A.
Published: March 2024

Near real-time monitoring of faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in waters is currently not feasible, and current monitoring methods require field sampling and laboratory testing that inhibits decision-making within a relevant timeframe. While recent studies identified the potential of using specific fluorescence regions for FIB monitoring, sufficient accuracy often requires site-specific calibration due to minor variations in fluorescence peak locations. In this study, a series of lab experiments were completed to address some of the selectivity issues. Specifically, the study explored correlations between wavelength-specific fluorescence signals acquired through fluorescence excitation-emission matrices (EEM) and the amount of E. coli K-12 (E. coli) and E. faecalis (enterococci) in exponential and stationary phase broth cultures. Subsequently, the experiments quantified how the addition of known concentrations of L-tryptophan amplifies an indole pulse, specifically its concentration and the corresponding fluorescence properties. Results show unique peak excitation/emission (λex/λem) wavelengths (± 5 nm) in EEMs for E. coli cell pellet and in M9 broth (~ 280/ ~ 327 nm), enterococci cell pellet (~ 276/ ~ 324 nm), L-tryptophan (~ 278/ ~ 343 nm and ~ 298/ ~ 344 nm), and indole (~ 232/ ~ 321 nm). The findings demonstrate that L-tryptophan concentrations in E. coli broth were reduced. At the same time, the indole content increased throughout the initiation phase to the stationary phase of the bacteria growth curve, with the peak indole pulse occurring approximately at the time of transition from the exponential to stationary phase. Such unique fluorescence signatures for not only FIB but also indole (whose pulse can be triggered by L-tryptophan) provide foundations for developing reliable and near real-time in situ FIB sensors.
Optimized Bioleaching Pre-treatment of UG-2 PGM Flotation Concentrate Using Design of Experiments
Authors: Shemi A. , Chipise L. , Yah C. S. , Kumar A. , Moodley S. , Rumbold K. , Simate G. , Ndlovu S.
Published: March 2024

The depletion of the Merensky ore has led the South African platinum industry into largely mining and processing Upper Group Two (UG-2) ore for the extraction of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs). However, the processing of the UG-2 material is not fully amenable to the conventional pyrometallurgical route due to the high chrome content. Therefore, in this study, a bio-based process for base metal extraction from UG-2 flotation concentrates was investigated. This study represents only part of the work done in a broader investigation to develop a completely biological two-stage process for the extraction of base metals and PGEs. In this paper, only the first stage of the process is presented. This study evaluated a mixture of indigenous thermoacidophile archaebacteria namely, Acidianus brierleyi, Sulfolobus sp., and Metallosphaera sedula. A statistical Design of Experiments (DOE) was used for finding optimal conditions. Factors investigated included particle size, pH, pulp density, inoculum dosage, and temperature. Optimal extraction efficiencies of 92% for Co, 97% for Cu, and 99% for Ni were predicted at correlation coefficients of 92.5%, 93.2%, and 88.0%, respectively, thus, verifying the fitness of the model. Optimal base metal extractions obtained were 99.3% for Co, 90.1% for Cu, 41.58% for Fe, and 99.5% for Ni. The results showed a substantial extraction of base metals from UG-2 PGM flotation concentrate suggesting a potentially feasible option for industrial bioprocessing of PGM concentrates. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report on bioleaching of base metals from UG-2 flotation concentrates.

Graphical Abstract
Generalized Derivatives and Optimality Conditions in Nonconvex Optimization
Authors: Yalcin Gulcin Dinc , Kasimbeyli Refail
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we study the radial epiderivative notion for nonconvex functions, which extends the (classical) directional derivative concept. The paper presents new definition and new properties for this notion and establishes relationships between the radial epiderivative, the Clarke’s directional derivative, the Rockafellar’s subderivative and the directional derivative. The radial epiderivative notion is used to establish new regularity conditions without convexity conditions. The paper presents explicit formulations for computing the radial epiderivatives in terms of weak subgradients and vice versa. We also present an iterative algorithm for approximate computing of radial epiderivatives and show that the algorithm terminates in a finite number of iterations. The paper analyzes necessary and sufficient conditions for global optimums in nonconvex optimization via the radial epiderivatives. We formulate a necessary and sufficient condition for a global descent direction for radially epidifferentiable nonconvex functions. All the properties and theorems presented in this paper are illustrated and interpreted on examples.
Wenn der Chatbot weiß, wo es lang geht – Ethische Fragen und mögliche Kriterien zum Einsatz von KI-gestützten Beratungssettings
Authors: Kieslinger Kristina , Nierobisch Kira
Published: March 2024

Die aktuellen Diskussionen im Bildungssektor um ChatGPT verweisen auf die zunehmende Relevanz von generativer KI im Bereich der (Bildungs‑)Beratung. Obwohl avatargestützte Informationsberatungen bereits Realität sind und die Einsatzmöglichkeiten der KI-gestützten Techniken rege diskutiert werden, bleiben viele ethische Fragen unerwähnt. Ziel des vorliegenden Beitrages ist es, nach einer Klärung des Sachstandes die ethischen Fragen des Einsatzes von KI-gestützten Tools in (Bildungs‑)Beratungssettings zu thematisieren. Dafür wird ein pädagogisch verstandenes Beratungsverständnis bemüht, das auf Dimensionen von Reflexivität und Lernen verweist. Dieses wird mit dem Ansatz einer normativen Ethik aufgenommen, welche auf verbindliche Grundlagen der Profession verweist. Im Transfer werden dann mögliche Kriterien zum Einsatz von KI-gestützten Beratungssettings vorgestellt.
Delineating the significance of sharp boundaries between horizons and their synergetic linkage in calcareous vineyard soils
Authors: Jiménez-Ballesta Raimundo , Pérez-de-los-Reyes Caridad , Bravo Sandra , Gómez-Magan Andrés , Amorós Jose A. , García-Navarro Francisco J.
Published: March 2024

The present work was undertaken to appraise and delineate the significance of sharp boundaries between horizons in calcareous vineyard soils by evaluating parent material uniformity and pedogenesis. To do so, 10 soil profiles (selected from 275) were investigated. The profiles up to a depth of approximately 150 cm were opened. Macromorphological features were described following FAO guidelines. Physico-chemical properties were analysed by the usual methods. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) was used to determine elemental Ti and Zn concentrations. In terms of the main morphological characteristics, soils are reddish, and have a well-developed solum, a subangular or prismatic structure and friable moist consistency (B horizon) unlike the C horizon, which generally varies from friable to hard or very hard in a massive structure. These latter are usually related to the pedogenesis of evolved soils containing accumulations of calcium carbonate to form calcic or petrocalcic horizons. Other genetic horizons of the studied soils are argillic or cambic, which all lie directly on parent materials, in addition to a surface Ap anthropic horizon. Although the considered soils displayed a significant sharp boundary between some horizons, and even though some soil parent materials were stratified in nature and apparently formed of multidepositional regimes, certainly the vertical distribution of Ti/Zr displayed minor variations with no clear inflection with depth. Therefore, the parent materials of the investigated soils are apparently formed of homogeneous depositional materials. The morphological contrast within a profile is due mainly to pedological processes (they are very mature) rather than to geogenic ones. Nevertheless, the marked contrasts between horizons cannot be explained only by pedogenetic processes, but by other secondary processes related to agricultural use (mechanical impact of tillage). This means a partly artificial distinction that entails surface erosion and, consequently, a manifest redistribution fundamentally on surface horizons. Based on all this, it can be deduced that these soils are formed from local and not from extraregional materials.
Environmental and Innovative Fertilizer Development Strategies for Wheat Cultivation: Urea-Doped Hydroxyapatite, Biochar-Coated Diammonium Phosphate, and Biochar-Coated Urea in Basal and Top Dressing
Authors: Kardes Tugce Ayse , Gunes Aydin
Published: March 2024

The effectiveness of conventional fertilizers is quite low. This study aimed to develop alternative basal and top dressing fertilizers by comparing the effectiveness of urea-doped nanohydroxyapatite (UnHAP) and biochar-coated diammonium phosphate (BDAP), as well as biochar-coated Urea (BUrea) fertilizer, with conventional DAP and urea fertilizers in field conditions. In the first experiment, Urea or BUrea was used as a top dressing with UnHAP from the base. In the second experiment, Urea or BUrea was again used as a top dressing with BDAP from the base. In the experiments, a P rate of 80 kg P2O5 ha−1 was applied with DAP fertilizer as a reference. UnHAP and BDAP were applied at rates equal to or lower than the reference (60 and 40 kg P2O5 ha−1). All plots received 150 kg N ha−1 of Urea and BUrea, in comparison to DAP + Urea, the first year the highest grain production (4456 kg ha−1) with 80 kg ha−1 of DAP + BUrea, and in the second year, an equivalent amount of grain yield was obtained. In the second experiment, particularly in the first year, despite a decreased P rate up to 40 kg ha−1, yields were still comparable to the reference. Even at reduced doses of UnHAP and BDAP fertilizers compared to the reference, there was no significant decrease in the grain protein contents. High-efficiency UnHAP and BDAP have the potential to reduce fertilizer consumption. Conducting studies to determine the long-term effects of UnHAP under various ecological conditions would be advantageous.

Graphical Abstract
The Evolving Regulatory Paradigm of AI in MedTech: A Review of Perspectives and Where We Are Today
Authors: Zhou Karen , Gattinger Ginny
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled technologies in the MedTech sector hold the promise to transform healthcare delivery by improving access, quality, and outcomes. As the regulatory contours of these technologies are being defined, there is a notable lack of literature on the key stakeholders such as the organizations and interest groups that have a significant input in shaping the regulatory framework. This article explores the perspectives and contributions of these stakeholders in shaping the regulatory paradigm of AI-enabled medical technologies. The formation of an AI regulatory framework requires the convergence of ethical, regulatory, technical, societal, and practical considerations. These multiple perspectives contribute to the various dimensions of an evolving regulatory paradigm. From the global governance guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO) to national regulations, the article sheds light not just on these multiple perspectives but also on their interconnectedness in shaping the regulatory landscape of AI.
The early Danian event (Dan-C2) and the latest Danian event (LDE): a case study from Gebel Kilabiya, Egypt
Authors: Orabi Orabi H. , Ismail Heba , Taha Saida
Published: March 2024

At the Gebel Kilabiya area, studies on foraminifera and isotopes were conducted during the Paleocene. The data revealed that the lowest part of the P2 Zone and the oldest peak, P1c, closely resemble the Dan-C2 event. Before Dan-C2, the diversity of the assemblages rapidly declined as the abundance of the agglutinant Spiroplectinella spectabilis, and calcareous benthic Bulimina spp., species commonly known as an opportunist, increased may be influenced by warmth and pH changes due to Deccan volcanism. The extinction of the planktic foraminifera genus Praemurica occurred shortly before the Latest Danian Event (LDE). Additionally, praemuricids were eventually supplanted by morozovellids in parallel. Warm morphogroups Praemurica, Morozovella, Igorina, and Acarinina are found in the low latitude group; they show a tendency towards warming in the late Paleocene (Zone P3a and P3b).
An empirical model for branding oriented by the environmental sustainability of the Amazon Rainforest: a hybrid structural equation modeling with fsQCA approach
Authors: Santos Luiz Diego Vidal , Holanda Francisco Sandro Rodrigues , Pedrotti Alceu , de Medeiros Raphael Mario Bastos , de Santana Oliveira Catuxe Varjão , Villwock Ana Paula Schervinski
Published: March 2024

Utilizing the Theory of Planned Behavior, a meaningful connection between an organization and its consumers can be established, transcending mere appearances and delving into emotions, relationships, and brand experiences. In line with these principles, this study aims to present an empirical model grounded in factual evidence derived from the perspectives of entrepreneurs and consumers of environmentally sustainable brands in the Brazilian Amazon. The proposed model adopts a mixed-modeling approach, utilizing data analysis techniques such as fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Two independent data sets were collected: one from 8 companies operating in the Amazon rainforest and another from 535 potential consumers. By analyzing these datasets, consumer motivations for the consumption of sustainable brands, entrepreneurial practices, and the role of traditional communities and the forest environment in shaping brand perceptions were identified. The results reveal that, from the consumer’s perspective, the key factors influencing a positive inclination to purchase sustainable brands include the brand’s engagement with traditional com munities, perceived product quality, brand innovation, and a transparently communicated positioning strategy. These constructs form the core components of the main solution. This article provides valuable information for entrepreneurs operating sustainable brands in tropical forests as well as for policymakers in community-based entrepreneurship. It is also of interest to researchers and individuals involved in brand management as a strategy for empowering small businesses engaged in sustainable practices and community collaboration. The study’s findings and recommendations have the potential to foster more sustainable and socially responsible business practices, thereby enhancing local economies and contributing to environmental preservation.
Validation of farmers’ on-farm irrigation scheduling for optimal water utilization in Tigray Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Habtu Solomon
Published: March 2024

Unwise use of irrigation water in water-scarce areas exacerbates water scarcity, diminishes crop yield, and leads to resource wastage. In the Tigray region of Ethiopia, where water is scarce and a determinant resource, no regional-level validation of on-farm irrigation scheduling had been conducted until now. The objectives of this study were to (i) validate farmers’ irrigation scheduling practices and (ii) optimize water consumption for increased irrigated area and number of farmers. Eight different irrigation schemes were purposively selected from the Tigray region. Primary data, acquired through field measurements, observations, and discussions, were supplemented with secondary data. Farmers' irrigation scheduling practices were predominantly of the "Fixed" type, characterized by constant irrigation intervals and amounts. Unfortunately, these practices were non-optimal, with 55% over-irrigation and 45% under-irrigation. Over-irrigation instances ranged from 1350 m3in a garlic plot within the Mesima scheme to a maximum of 1,327,067 m3in a maize plot within the Serenta scheme. The excess water could potentially be utilized to irrigate an additional area of 2 to 148 hectares, thereby benefiting 7 to 296 more farmers, respectively. Conversely, instances of under-irrigation in the Fre Lekatit scheme resulted in yield reductions of 10,445 kg for potatoes and 138,499 kg for maize. In the Tigray region, most of the schemes are semi-arid, emphasizing the imperative need for water conservation. Renovating regional-level irrigation scheduling by integrating performance assessment and enhancing water productivity at the field level, and establishing a remote-sensing-based 'Real-Time Irrigation Scheduling System' is deemed necessary to sustain dryland irrigated agriculture.
The Participatory Scope of the Common Heritage Principle
Authors: Ranganathan Surabhi
Published: March 2024

I have been asked by the symposium editors to write about the participatory scope of the concept of common heritage of humankind for Indigenous peoples, local communities, and future generations. Leaning into the possibilities of the Unbound format, I approach the topic in an athwart way. With a focus on seabed mining, I begin with describing a recent occasion on which Indigenous leaders joined a meeting of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) to discuss the mining regime that is in progress. I tease out the meanings that may be drawn from this instance of participation, including the claims that it made to the ocean as common heritage. Next, I turn to the limits of such participation, given the set parameters of the regime. My overall argument, discussed in the final section, is that the real issue at stake is not the possible conceptual scope of the common heritage principle. Rather, its actualization has been such that the burden is effectively shifted to marginalized voices to seek goals that do not disturb the overarching seabed mining regime.
On the Opacity of Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Søgaard Anders
Published: March 2024

Deep neural networks are said to be opaque, impeding the development of safe and trustworthy artificial intelligence, but where this opacity stems from is less clear. What are the sufficient properties for neural network opacity? Here, I discuss five common properties of deep neural networks and two different kinds of opacity. Which of these properties are sufficient for what type of opacity? I show how each kind of opacity stems from only one of these five properties, and then discuss to what extent the two kinds of opacity can be mitigated by explainability methods.
Open paleoenvironment and dry climate in south India immediately before the Youngest Toba Tuff eruption (~75 ka) are suggested by Vondrichnus structures at the Jwalapuram locality, Jurreru valley
Authors: Singh Ajab
Published: March 2024

The Younger Toba Tuff (YTT) eruption is regarded as one of the largest of its time and possibly responsible for changing past climate and vegetation from C3 to C4 in the Indian subcontinent. A paleosol constituting a Toba pre-tephra horizon at the Jwalapuram locality, exhibits the preservation of biogenic structures identified as Vondrichnus planoglobus and Vondrichnus obovatus. This study investigated their paleoecological and paleoenvironmental significance. These structures are hard and compact, rounded to sub-rounded, spherical to sub-spherical bodies with empty chambers, surrounded by carbonate layers, and preserved in close proximity to termite pipes and nests and rhizolith structures. Their occurrence in the Jwalapuram area is significant, as the locality has been well documented as suitable for reconstruction of past climate and vegetation in light of the impact of the YTT eruption. Based on the present findings, we assume that the investigated locality would likely have an insect population and bush to scrub vegetation, indicating a dry environment immediately before the YTT eruption.
ASSESSING 14C BLANKS IN THE SMALL-SCALE ANALYSIS OF N-ALKANE COMPOUND-SPECIFIC-RADIOCARBON-ANALYSIS
Authors: Reetz Kristina , Friedrich Ronny , Birk Jago J , Rosendahl Wilfried , Fiedler Sabine
Published: March 2024

Compound-specific radiocarbon analysis (CSRA) provides the possibility to date sample material at a molecular level. N-alkanes are considered as specific compounds with high potential to CSRA. As these compounds originate from plant waxes, their radiocarbon (14C) analysis can provide valuable information about the age and origin of organic materials. This helps to reconstruct and understand environmental conditions and changes in vegetation in the past. However, CSRA has two main challenges: The small sample size of CSRA samples, making them extremely sensitive to blank effects, and the input of unknown amounts of extraneous carbon during the analytical procedure. According to the previous study from Sun and co-workers, we used different-sized aliquots of leaves Fagus sylvatica (nC27, nC29) and Festuca rubra agg (nC31, nC33) as modern standards and two commercial standards (nC26, nC28) as fossil standards for blank determination. A third commercial standard (nC27) with predetermined radiocarbon content of F14C = 0.71 (14C age of 2700 BP) serves to evaluate the blank correction. We found that the blank assessment of Sun and co-workers is also applicable to n-alkanes, with a minimum sample size of 15 µg C for dependable CSRA dates. We determined that the blank introduced during the analytical procedure has a mass of (4.1 ± 0.7) µg carrying a radiocarbon content of F14C = 0.25 ± 0.05. Applying the blank correction to a sediment sample from Lake Holzmaar (Germany) shows that all four isolated n-alkanes have similar 14C ages. However, the bulk material of the sediment and branches found in the sediment core are younger than the CSRA dates. We conclude that the disparity between the actual age of analysed organic material and the age inferred from radiocarbon results, which can occur in sediment traps due to delayed deposition, is the reason for the CSRA age.
Determinants of confrontation naming deficits on the Boston Naming Test associated with transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 pathology
Authors: Robinson Carling G. , Goodrich Austin W. , Weigand Stephen D. , Pham Nha Trang Thu , Carlos Arenn F. , Buciuc Marina , Murray Melissa E. , Nguyen Aivi T. , Reichard R. Ross , Knopman David S. , Petersen Ronald C. , Dickson Dennis W. , Utianski Rene L. , Whitwell Jennifer L. , Josephs Keith A. , Machulda Mary M.
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To determine whether poorer performance on the Boston Naming Test (BNT) in individuals with transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 pathology (TDP-43+) is due to greater loss of word knowledge compared to retrieval-based deficits.

Methods:

Retrospective clinical-pathologic study of 282 participants with Alzheimer’s disease neuropathologic changes (ADNC) and known TDP-43 status. We evaluated item-level performance on the 60-item BNT for first and last available assessment. We fit cross-sectional negative binomial count models that assessed total number of incorrect items, number correct of responses with phonemic cue (reflecting retrieval difficulties), and number of “I don’t know” (IDK) responses (suggestive of loss of word knowledge) at both assessments. Models included TDP-43 status and adjusted for sex, age, education, years from test to death, and ADNC severity. Models that evaluated the last assessment adjusted for number of prior BNT exposures.

Results:

43% were TDP-43+. The TDP-43+ group had worse performance on BNT total score at first (p = .01) and last assessments (p = .01). At first assessment, TDP-43+ individuals had an estimated 29% (CI: 7%–56%) higher mean number of incorrect items after adjusting for covariates, and a 51% (CI: 15%–98%) higher number of IDK responses compared to TDP-43−. At last assessment, compared to TDP-43−, the TDP-43+ group on average missed 31% (CI: 6%–62%; p = .01) more items and had 33% more IDK responses (CI: 1% fewer to 78% more; p = .06).

Conclusions:

An important component of poorer performance on the BNT in participants who are TDP-43+ is having loss of word knowledge versus retrieval difficulties.
Identifying Climate Impacts From Different Stratospheric Aerosol Injection Strategies in UKESM1
Authors: Wells Alice F. , Henry Matthew , Bednarz Ewa M. , MacMartin Douglas G. , Jones Andy , Dalvi Mohit , Haywood James M.
Published: March 2024

Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI) is a proposed method of climate intervention aiming to reduce the impacts of human‐induced global warming by reflecting a portion of incoming solar radiation. Many studies have demonstrated that SAI would successfully reduce global‐mean surface air temperatures; however the vast array of model scenarios and strategies result in a diverse range of climate impacts. Here we compare two SAI strategies—a quasi‐ equatorial injection and a multi‐latitude off‐equatorial injection—simulated with the UK Earth System Model (UKESM1), both aiming to reduce the global‐mean surface temperature from that of a high‐end emissions scenario to that of a moderate emissions scenario. We compare changes in the surface and stratospheric climate under each strategy to determine how the climate response depends on the injection location. In agreement with previous studies, an equatorial injection results in a tropospheric overcooling in the tropics and a residual warming in the polar regions, with substantial changes to stratospheric temperatures, water vapor and circulation. Previous comparisons of equatorial versus off‐equatorial injection strategies are limited to two studies using different versions of the Community Earth System Model. Our study evaluates how the climate responds in UKESM1 under these injection strategies. Our results are broadly consistent with previous findings, concluding that an off‐equatorial injection strategy can minimize regional surface temperature and precipitation changes relative to the target. We also present more in‐depth analysis of the associated changes in Hadley Circulation and regional temperature changes, and call for a new series of inter‐model SAI comparisons using an off‐equatorial strategy.
Our Vision for JGR: Machine Learning and Computation
Authors: Camporeale E. , Marino R. ,   the Editorial Board
Published: March 2024

This editorial introduces the inaugural issue of the Journal of Geophysical Research: Machine Learning and Computation to the scientific community, elucidating the motivations and vision behind its establishment. The landscape of computational tools for geoscientists has undergone a rapid transformation in the last decade, akin to a new scientific revolution challenging the traditional scientific method. The paradigm shift emphasizes the integration of data‐driven methods and the possibility of predicting and/or reproducing the evolution of natural phenomena with computers as the fourth pillar of scientific discovery, sparking debates on trustworthiness, and ethical implications. The data science revolution is fueled by the convergence of advancements, including the big‐data revolution, GPU market expansion, and significant investments in Artificial Intelligence and high performance computing by both institutional and private players. This transformation has given rise to a trans‐disciplinary community that has investigated a wide range of questions under the lens of machine learning (ML) approaches and has generally advanced the field of computational methods within the broader geosciences community, the core of the American Geophysical Union (AGU) membership. Responding to an unmet demand in the existing worldwide editorial offer, the Journal of Geophysical Research: Machine Learning and Computation aims to serve as an intellectual crucible, fostering collaborations across multiple geophysical disciplines and data scientists. The journal welcomes papers with strong methodological developments that allow for geoscience advancements grounded in specific computational and data‐driven methods, leveraging ML as well as innovative computational strategies, and leading to breakthrough discoveries and original scientific outcomes. Authors are encouraged to balance succinctness in introducing methods with a thorough exploration of the novelty of the work proposed and its future applications placing special emphasis on the connection between the data science approach and the scientific outcome, considering a broad readership. Emphasis on result reproducibility aligns with AGU guidance, inviting active participation from the community in shaping geophysical research in the era of machine learning and computation.
Does acute cannabidiol (CBD) use impair performance? A meta-analysis and comparison with placebo and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Authors: Lo Lindsay A. , Christiansen April L. , Strickland Justin C. , Pistawka Carly A. , Eadie Lauren , Vandrey Ryan , MacCallum Caroline A.
Published: March 2024

Cannabidiol (CBD) is widely used and believed to be non-intoxicating, lacking acute performance effects (e.g., non-impairing). However, a synthesis of data has not evaluated this. This meta-analysis synthesized data from controlled human laboratory studies that evaluated if acute CBD use impairs performance. Performance on objective and subjective measures of cognitive and psychomotor function were used as markers for potential performance changes and impairment. Studies were identified through systematic database searches. Adult clinical trials measuring acute CBD effects (within 0–8 h of administration) were included. The primary outcome was the peak mean difference in performance measures between CBD and placebo. A secondary analysis utilizing delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) as a positive control for comparison to CBD was completed. Pooled Hedges’ g estimates were calculated using robust variance estimation (RVE) meta-regression. The omnibus RVE meta-analysis indicated a statistically significant, but small effect size (Hedge’s g < 0.2) for impaired performance following acute CBD consumption compared to placebo (N = 16 trials, Hedges’ g = 0.122, 95% CI: 0.023–0.221, p = 0.019). Measure type was a significant moderator with larger mean differences between CBD and placebo when subjective measures, specifically self-reported sedation, were used versus objective performance tasks (Hedges’ gSubjective = 0.288 versus Hedges’ gObjective = 0.048). Δ9-THC had a significantly greater magnitude of impairment compared to CBD (N = 8, Hedges’ g = 0.416, 95% CI: 0.017–0.816, p = 0.043). In summary, acute CBD consumption was associated with a small increase in subjective ratings of sedation, but no difference from placebo was observed across multiple domains of objectively assessed cognitive or psychomotor performance. These findings suggest that acute CBD alone is unlikely to significantly impair daily functioning or workplace performance.
Harnessing innate immune pathways for therapeutic advancement in cancer
Authors: Hu Ankang , Sun Li , Lin Hao , Liao Yuheng , Yang Hui , Mao Ying
Published: March 2024

The innate immune pathway is receiving increasing attention in cancer therapy. This pathway is ubiquitous across various cell types, not only in innate immune cells but also in adaptive immune cells, tumor cells, and stromal cells. Agonists targeting the innate immune pathway have shown profound changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and improved tumor prognosis in preclinical studies. However, to date, the clinical success of drugs targeting the innate immune pathway remains limited. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that activation of the innate immune pathway can paradoxically promote tumor progression. The uncertainty surrounding the therapeutic effectiveness of targeted drugs for the innate immune pathway is a critical issue that needs immediate investigation. In this review, we observe that the role of the innate immune pathway demonstrates heterogeneity, linked to the tumor development stage, pathway status, and specific cell types. We propose that within the TME, the innate immune pathway exhibits multidimensional diversity. This diversity is fundamentally rooted in cellular heterogeneity and is manifested as a variety of signaling networks. The pro-tumor effect of innate immune pathway activation essentially reflects the suppression of classical pathways and the activation of potential pro-tumor alternative pathways. Refining our understanding of the tumor’s innate immune pathway network and employing appropriate targeting strategies can enhance our ability to harness the anti-tumor potential of the innate immune pathway and ultimately bridge the gap from preclinical to clinical application.
Kdm6a-CNN1 axis orchestrates epigenetic control of trauma-induced spinal cord microvascular endothelial cell senescence to balance neuroinflammation for improved neurological repair
Authors: Li Chengjun , Qin Tian , Zhao Jinyun , Jin Yuxin , Qin Yiming , He Rundong , Wu Tianding , Duan Chunyue , Jiang Liyuan , Yuan Feifei , Lu Hongbin , Cao Yong , Hu Jianzhong
Published: March 2024

Cellular senescence assumes pivotal roles in various diseases through the secretion of proinflammatory factors. Despite extensive investigations into vascular senescence associated with aging and degenerative diseases, the molecular mechanisms governing microvascular endothelial cell senescence induced by traumatic stress, particularly its involvement in senescence-induced inflammation, remain insufficiently elucidated. In this study, we present a comprehensive demonstration and characterization of microvascular endothelial cell senescence induced by spinal cord injury (SCI). Lysine demethylase 6A (Kdm6a), commonly known as UTX, emerges as a crucial regulator of cell senescence in injured spinal cord microvascular endothelial cells (SCMECs). Upregulation of UTX induces senescence in SCMECs, leading to an amplified release of proinflammatory factors, specifically the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) components, thereby modulating the inflammatory microenvironment. Conversely, the deletion of UTX in endothelial cells shields SCMECs against senescence, mitigates the release of proinflammatory SASP factors, and promotes neurological functional recovery after SCI. UTX forms an epigenetic regulatory axis by binding to calponin 1 (CNN1), orchestrating trauma-induced SCMECs senescence and SASP secretion, thereby influencing neuroinflammation and neurological functional repair. Furthermore, local delivery of a senolytic drug reduces senescent SCMECs and suppresses proinflammatory SASP secretion, reinstating a local regenerative microenvironment and enhancing functional repair after SCI. In conclusion, targeting the UTX-CNN1 epigenetic axis to prevent trauma-induced SCMECs senescence holds the potential to inhibit SASP secretion, alleviate neuroinflammation, and provide a novel treatment strategy for SCI repair.
Evaluation of a two-step model of opportunistic genomic screening
Authors: Martyn Melissa , Lee Ling , Jan Alli , Lynch Elly , Weerasuriya Rona , Kanga-Parabia Anaita , Gaff Clara
Published: March 2024

Increasing use of diagnostic genomic sequencing is pushing health services to confront the issue of opportunistic genomic screening (OGS). To date, OGS has been offered concomitant with diagnostic testing. In contrast, we piloted a service offering OGS after return of diagnostic testing results. Evaluation was designed to provide insights for future models of service and included patient surveys at three time points, semi-structured interviews with genetic counsellors (GCs) and a focus group with medical scientists. Uptake was relatively low: 83 of 200 patients approached (42%) attended the OGS service, with 81 accepting OGS. Whilst many who declined to attend the service cited practical barriers, others gave reasons that indicated this was a considered decision. Despite specific genetic counselling, one third of patients did not understand the scope of re-analysis. Yet after post-test counselling, all respondents with novel pathogenic additional findings (AF) understood the implications and reported relevant follow-up. Recall was high: five months after last contact, 75% recalled being offered OGS without prompting. GC interviews and patient survey responses provide insights into complexities that influence patient support needs, including diagnostic status and AF result type. There was no consensus among patients or professionals about when to offer OGS. There was a clear preference for multiple, flexible methods of information provision; achieving this whilst balancing patient support needs and resource requirements is a challenge requiring further investigation. Decisions about whether, when and how to offer OGS are complex; our study shows the two-step approach warrants further exploration.
Phosphonate-based iron complex for a cost-effective and long cycling aqueous iron redox flow battery
Authors: Nambafu Gabriel S. , Hollas Aaron M. , Zhang Shuyuan , Rice Peter S. , Boglaienko Daria , Fulton John L. , Li Miller , Huang Qian , Zhu Yu , Reed David M. , Sprenkle Vincent L. , Li Guosheng
Published: March 2024

A promising metal-organic complex, iron (Fe)-NTMPA2, consisting of Fe(III) chloride and nitrilotri-(methylphosphonic acid) (NTMPA), is designed for use in aqueous iron redox flow batteries. A full-cell testing, where a concentrated Fe-NTMPA2 anolyte (0.67 M) is paired with a Fe-CN catholyte, demonstrates exceptional cycling stability over 1000 charge/discharge cycles, and noteworthy performances, including 96% capacity utilization, a minimal capacity fade rate of 0.0013% per cycle (1.3% over 1,000 cycles), high Coulombic efficiency and energy efficiency near 100% and 87%, respectively, all achieved under a current density of 20 mA·cm-². Furthermore, density functional theory unveils two potential coordination structures for Fe-NTMPA2 complexes, improving the understanding between the ligand coordination environment and electron transfer kinetics. When paired with a high redox potential Fe-Dcbpy/CN catholyte, 2,2′-bipyridine-4,4′-dicarboxylic (Dcbpy) acid and cyanide (CN) ligands, Fe-NTMPA2 demonstrates a notably elevated cell voltage of 1 V, enabling a practical energy density of up to 9 Wh/L.
Field-scale crop water consumption estimates reveal potential water savings in California agriculture
Authors: Boser Anna , Caylor Kelly , Larsen Ashley , Pascolini-Campbell Madeleine , Reager John T. , Carleton Tamma
Published: March 2024

Efficiently managing agricultural irrigation is vital for food security today and into the future under climate change. Yet, evaluating agriculture’s hydrological impacts and strategies to reduce them remains challenging due to a lack of field-scale data on crop water consumption. Here, we develop a method to fill this gap using remote sensing and machine learning, and leverage it to assess water saving strategies in California’s Central Valley. We find that switching to lower water intensity crops can reduce consumption by up to 93%, but this requires adopting uncommon crop types. Northern counties have substantially lower irrigation efficiencies than southern counties, suggesting another potential source of water savings. Other practices that do not alter land cover can save up to 11% of water consumption. These results reveal diverse approaches for achieving sustainable water use, emphasizing the potential of sub-field scale crop water consumption maps to guide water management in California and beyond.
The Persian plateau served as hub for Homo sapiens after the main out of Africa dispersal
Authors: Vallini Leonardo , Zampieri Carlo , Shoaee Mohamed Javad , Bortolini Eugenio , Marciani Giulia , Aneli Serena , Pievani Telmo , Benazzi Stefano , Barausse Alberto , Mezzavilla Massimo , Petraglia Michael D. , Pagani Luca
Published: March 2024

A combination of evidence, based on genetic, fossil and archaeological findings, indicates that Homo sapiens spread out of Africa between ~70-60 thousand years ago (kya). However, it appears that once outside of Africa, human populations did not expand across all of Eurasia until ~45 kya. The geographic whereabouts of these early settlers in the timeframe between ~70-60 to 45 kya has been difficult to reconcile. Here we combine genetic evidence and palaeoecological models to infer the geographic location that acted as the Hub for our species during the early phases of colonisation of Eurasia. Leveraging on available genomic evidence we show that populations from the Persian Plateau carry an ancestry component that closely matches the population that settled the Hub outside Africa. With the paleoclimatic data available to date, we built ecological models showing that the Persian Plateau was suitable for human occupation and that it could sustain a larger population compared to other West Asian regions, strengthening this claim.
Direct observation of phase transitions in truncated tetrahedral microparticles under quasi-2D confinement
Authors: Doan David , Kulikowski John , Gu X. Wendy
Published: March 2024

Colloidal crystals are used to understand fundamentals of atomic rearrangements in condensed matter and build complex metamaterials with unique functionalities. Simulations predict a multitude of self-assembled crystal structures from anisotropic colloids, but these shapes have been challenging to fabricate. Here, we use two-photon lithography to fabricate Archimedean truncated tetrahedrons and self-assemble them under quasi-2D confinement. These particles self-assemble into a hexagonal phase under an in-plane gravitational potential. Under additional gravitational potential, the hexagonal phase transitions into a quasi-diamond two-unit basis. In-situ imaging reveal this phase transition is initiated by an out-of-plane rotation of a particle at a crystalline defect and causes a chain reaction of neighboring particle rotations. Our results provide a framework of studying different structures from hard-particle self-assembly and demonstrates the ability to use confinement to induce unusual phases.
Single drop cytometry onboard the International Space Station
Authors: Rea Daniel J. , Miller Rachael S. , Crucian Brian E. , Valentine Russell W. , Cristoforetti Samantha , Bearg Samuel B. , Sipic Zlatko , Cheng Jamie , Yu Rebecca , Calaway Kimesha M. , Eames Dexter , Nelson Emily S. , Lewandowski Beth E. , Perusek Gail P. , Chan Eugene Y.
Published: March 2024

Real-time lab analysis is needed to support clinical decision making and research on human missions to the Moon and Mars. Powerful laboratory instruments, such as flow cytometers, are generally too cumbersome for spaceflight. Here, we show that scant test samples can be measured in microgravity, by a trained astronaut, using a miniature cytometry-based analyzer, the rHEALTH ONE, modified specifically for spaceflight. The base device addresses critical spaceflight requirements including minimal resource utilization and alignment-free optics for surviving rocket launch. To fully enable reduced gravity operation onboard the space station, we incorporated bubble-free fluidics, electromagnetic shielding, and gravity-independent sample introduction. We show microvolume flow cytometry from 10 μL sample drops, with data from five simultaneous channels using 10 μs bin intervals during each sample run, yielding an average of 72 million raw data points in approximately 2 min. We demonstrate the device measures each test sample repeatably, including correct identification of a sample that degraded in transit to the International Space Station. This approach can be utilized to further our understanding of spaceflight biology and provide immediate, actionable diagnostic information for management of astronaut health without the need for Earth-dependent analysis.