bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Independent Evaluation of GHGSat Methane Emissions: Performance Assessment
Authors: McLinden C. A. , Griffin Debora , Davis Zoe , Hempel Colin , Smith James , Sioris Christopher , Nassar Ray , Moeini Omid , Legault‐Ouellet Eric , Malo Alain
Published: August 2024

An independent evaluation of methane emissions data from GHGSat, a private company that operates a constellation of small microsatellites flying Fabry‐Perot spectrometers operating at 1.6 µm, was performed. Data from multiple GHGSat commercial satellites, consisting of retrieved methane, diagnostics, and, where detected, plume and emissions information from roughly 250 scenes across Canada were analyzed. From these, 10 scenes contained methane plumes with a 2% detection rate for oil and gas scenes, and 10% for landfills. Methane precision was found to be 5%/2% on average for the C1/C2–C5 designs, with some variability due to scene albedo, terrain roughness, and airmass. Synthetic GHGSat plumes, generated using Lagrangian plume dispersion model and GHGSat characteristics, indicates typical detection limits of 240/180 kg/hr(C1/C2–C5), with a best case of roughly 100 kg/hr. Emissions and their uncertainties calculated using an alternative approach were in broad agreement with GHGSat‐reported emissions. Overall, the performance of the GHGSat C2 design (also used for C3 onward) for favorable‐viewing conditions was found to be largely consistent with company‐advertised performance.
Modeling Earth Systems at a Quintillion Calculations per Second
Authors: Owen Rebecca
Published: August 2024

I SCREAM, you SCREAM, we all SCREAM for faster climate modeling.
Carbon and Greenhouse Gas Budgets of Europe: Trends, Interannual and Spatial Variability, and Their Drivers
Authors: Lauerwald Ronny , Bastos Ana , McGrath Matthew J. , Petrescu Ana Maria Roxana , Ritter François , Andrew Robbie M. , Berchet Antoine , Broquet Grégoire , Brunner Dominik , Chevallier Frédéric , Cescatti Alessandro , Filipek Sara , Fortems‐Cheiney Audrey , Forzieri Giovanni , Friedlingstein Pierre , Fuchs Richard , Gerbig Christoph , Houweling Sander , Ke Piyu , Lerink Bas J. W. , Li Wanjing , Li Wei , Li Xiaojun , Luijkx Ingrid , Monteil Guillaume , Munassar Saqr , Nabuurs Gert‐Jan , Patra Prabir K. , Peylin Philippe , Pongratz Julia , Regnier Pierre , Saunois Marielle , Schelhaas Mart‐Jan , Scholze Marko , Sitch Stephen , Thompson Rona L. , Tian Hanqin , Tsuruta Aki , Wilson Chris , Wigneron Jean‐Pierre , Winkler Karina , Yao Yitong , Zaehle Sönke , Ciais Philippe
Published: August 2024

In the framework of the RECCAP2 initiative, we present the greenhouse gas (GHG) and carbon (C) budget of Europe. For the decade of the 2010s, we present a bottom‐up (BU) estimate of GHG net‐emissions of 3.9 Pg CO2‐eq. yr−1 (using a global warming potential on a 100 years horizon), which are largely dominated by fossil fuel emissions. In this decade, terrestrial ecosystems acted as a net GHG sink of 0.9 Pg CO2‐eq. yr−1, dominated by a CO2 sink that was partially counterbalanced by net emissions of CH4 and N2O. For CH4 and N2O, we find good agreement between BU and top‐down (TD) estimates from atmospheric inversions. However, our BU land CO2 sink is significantly higher than the TD estimates. We further show that decadal averages of GHG net‐emissions have declined by 1.2 Pg CO2‐eq. yr−1 since the 1990s, mainly due to a reduction in fossil fuel emissions. In addition, based on both data driven BU and TD estimates, we also find that the land CO2 sink has weakened over the past two decades. A large part of the European CO2 and C sinks is located in Northern Europe. At the same time, we find a decreasing trend in sink strength in Scandinavia, which can be attributed to an increase in forest management intensity. These are partly offset by increasing CO2 sinks in parts of Eastern Europe and Northern Spain, attributed in part to land use change. Extensive regions of high CH4 and N2O emissions are mainly attributed to agricultural activities and are found in Belgium, the Netherlands and the southern UK. We further analyzed interannual variability in the GHG budgets. The drought year of 2003 shows the highest net‐emissions of CO2 and of all GHGs combined.
Chloromethanes in the North American Troposphere and Lower Stratosphere Over the Past Two Decades
Authors: Smith Kate , Atlas Elliot , Apel Eric C. , Blake Donald R. , Dutton Geoff , Hornbrook Rebecca S. , Montzka Steve , Mühle Jens , Schauffler Sue , Treadaway Victoria
Published: August 2024

Aircraft observations of the four chloromethanes: carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), methyl chloride (CH3Cl), dichloromethane (CH2Cl2), and chloroform (CHCl3), collected over North America between 2000 and 2022, were used to evaluate their vertical distributions and temporal trends in the atmosphere. We examine the vertical profiles, from the surface to the lower stratosphere (LS), of these increasingly important contributors to ozone‐depleting chlorine in both altitude and potential temperature space. Airborne chloromethane trends were compared with those measured at long‐term, ground‐based monitoring stations. Below 20 km altitude, CCl4 trends were decreasing at all levels studied in the North American atmosphere (−1.1 ppt yr−1). CHCl3 and CH2Cl2 airborne observations were comparable to ground network measurements: CHCl3 increased between 2000 and 2018 and then decreased leading to a negligible trend over the 22 years studied and CH2Cl2 has been increasing at all levels in the troposphere (+2.41 ppt yr−1, 2000–2022, <20 km).
Probability of Firn Aquifer Presence in Antarctica by Combining Remote Sensing and Regional Climate Model Data
Authors: Di Biase V. , Kuipers Munneke P. , Veldhuijsen S. B. M. , de Roda Husman S. , van den Broeke M. R. , Noël B. , Buth L. G. , Wouters B.
Published: August 2024

Despite in‐situ observations of perennial firn aquifers (PFAs) at specific locations of the Antarctic ice sheet, a comprehensive continent‐wide mapping of PFA distribution is currently lacking. We present an estimate of their distribution across Antarctica in the form of a probability assessment using a Monte Carlo technique. Our approach involves a novel methodology that combines observations from Sentinel‐1 and Advanced SCATterometer (ASCAT) with output from a regional climate model. To evaluate our method, we conduct an extensive comparison with Operation Ice Bridge observations from the Greenland Ice Sheet. Application to Antarctica reveals high PFA probabilities in the Antarctic Peninsula (AP), particularly along its northern, northwestern, and western coastlines, as well as on the Wilkins, Müller, and George VI ice shelves. Outside the AP, PFA probability is low, except for some locations with marginally higher probabilities, such as on the Abbot, Totten, and Shackleton ice shelves.
A Puzzling Quasi‐Periodic Variability in the Tropical Middle Atmosphere
Authors: Koushik N. , Kumar K. Kishore
Published: August 2024

The Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation and the Semiannual Oscillation have been identified to be the leading modes of variability in the tropical middle atmosphere. With reanalysis data and independent rocket soundings from a low latitude site, we report the existence of yet another variability in the tropical lower mesosphere which is primarily evident as easterly bursts in zonal winds during the months of May‐July. It occurs with a variable interval of 2–5 yrs in the late 20th century and 7–9 yrs in the early 21st century. These Quasi‐Periodic Easterly Bursts are found to have remote influences on the Antarctic polar vortex as well as residual circulation in the lower mesosphere. We identify a potential causative mechanism for the easterly bursts that involve enhanced cross equatorial advection of momentum as well as gravity wave drag. A close association with Quasi Biennial Oscillation winds is observed, however, cause of the observed periodicity remains elusive.
Cell–cell communication: new insights and clinical implications
Authors: Su Jimeng , Song Ying , Zhu Zhipeng , Huang Xinyue , Fan Jibiao , Qiao Jie , Mao Fengbiao
Published: August 2024

Multicellular organisms are composed of diverse cell types that must coordinate their behaviors through communication. Cell–cell communication (CCC) is essential for growth, development, differentiation, tissue and organ formation, maintenance, and physiological regulation. Cells communicate through direct contact or at a distance using ligand–receptor interactions. So cellular communication encompasses two essential processes: cell signal conduction for generation and intercellular transmission of signals, and cell signal transduction for reception and procession of signals. Deciphering intercellular communication networks is critical for understanding cell differentiation, development, and metabolism. First, we comprehensively review the historical milestones in CCC studies, followed by a detailed description of the mechanisms of signal molecule transmission and the importance of the main signaling pathways they mediate in maintaining biological functions. Then we systematically introduce a series of human diseases caused by abnormalities in cell communication and their progress in clinical applications. Finally, we summarize various methods for monitoring cell interactions, including cell imaging, proximity-based chemical labeling, mechanical force analysis, downstream analysis strategies, and single-cell technologies. These methods aim to illustrate how biological functions depend on these interactions and the complexity of their regulatory signaling pathways to regulate crucial physiological processes, including tissue homeostasis, cell development, and immune responses in diseases. In addition, this review enhances our understanding of the biological processes that occur after cell–cell binding, highlighting its application in discovering new therapeutic targets and biomarkers related to precision medicine. This collective understanding provides a foundation for developing new targeted drugs and personalized treatments.
Alternative splicing of BAZ1A in colorectal cancer disrupts the DNA damage response and increases chemosensitization
Authors: Mohan Nivedhitha , Johnson Gavin S. , Tovar Perez Jorge Enrique , Dashwood Wan Mohaiza , Rajendran Praveen , Dashwood Roderick H.
Published: August 2024

Bromodomain Adjacent to Zinc Finger Domain 1A (BAZ1A) is a critical regulator of chromatin remodeling. We sought to clarify the roles of BAZ1A in the etiology of colorectal cancer, including the mechanisms of its alternatively spliced variants. Public databases were examined and revealed high BAZ1A expression in the majority of colorectal cancer patients, which was corroborated in a panel of human colon cancer cell lines. BAZ1A silencing reduced cell viability and increased markers of DNA damage, apoptosis, and senescence, along with the downregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. The corresponding molecular changes resulted in tumor growth inhibition when BAZ1A-knockout cells were implanted into nude mice. In rescue experiments, a short isoform of BAZ1A that was associated with alternative splicing by the DBIRD complex failed to restore DNA repair activity in colon cancer cells and maintained chemosensitivity to phleomycin treatment, unlike the full-length BAZ1A. A working model proposes that a buried domain in the N-terminus of the BAZ1A short isoform lacks the ability to access linker DNA, thereby disrupting the activity of the associated chromatin remodeling complexes. Given the current interest in RNA splicing deregulation and cancer etiology, additional mechanistic studies are warranted with new lead compounds targeting BAZ1A, and other members of the BAZ family, with a view to improved therapeutic interventions.
Male autism spectrum disorder is linked to brain aromatase disruption by prenatal BPA in multimodal investigations and 10HDA ameliorates the related mouse phenotype
Authors: Symeonides Christos , Vacy Kristina , Thomson Sarah , Tanner Sam , Chua Hui Kheng , Dixit Shilpi , Mansell Toby , O’Hely Martin , Novakovic Boris , Herbstman Julie B. , Wang Shuang , Guo Jia , Chia Jessalynn , Tran Nhi Thao , Hwang Sang Eun , Britt Kara , Chen Feng , Kim Tae Hwan , Reid Christopher A. , El-Bitar Anthony , Bernasochi Gabriel B. , Delbridge Lea M. Durham , Harley Vincent R. , Yap Yann W. , Dewey Deborah , Love Chloe J. , Burgner David , Tang Mimi L. K. , Sly Peter D. , Saffery Richard , Mueller Jochen F. , Rinehart Nicole , Tonge Bruce , Vuillermin Peter ,   the BIS Investigator Group, Collier Fiona , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Harrison Leonard C. , Ranganathan Sarath , Gray Lawrence , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Boon Wah Chin
Published: August 2024

Male sex, early life chemical exposure and the brain aromatase enzyme have been implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the Barwon Infant Study birth cohort (n = 1074), higher prenatal maternal bisphenol A (BPA) levels are associated with higher ASD symptoms at age 2 and diagnosis at age 9 only in males with low aromatase genetic pathway activity scores. Higher prenatal BPA levels are predictive of higher cord blood methylation across the CYP19A1 brain promoter I.f region (P = 0.009) and aromatase gene methylation mediates (P = 0.01) the link between higher prenatal BPA and brain-derived neurotrophic factor methylation, with independent cohort replication. BPA suppressed aromatase expression in vitro and in vivo. Male mice exposed to mid-gestation BPA or with aromatase knockout have ASD-like behaviors with structural and functional brain changes. 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10HDA), an estrogenic fatty acid alleviated these features and reversed detrimental neurodevelopmental gene expression. Here we demonstrate that prenatal BPA exposure is associated with impaired brain aromatase function and ASD-related behaviors and brain abnormalities in males that may be reversible through postnatal 10HDA intervention.
Uncovering low-frequency vibrations in surface-enhanced Raman of organic molecules
Authors: Boehmke Amoruso Alexandra , Boto Roberto A. , Elliot Eoin , de Nijs Bart , Esteban Ruben , Földes Tamás , Aguilar-Galindo Fernando , Rosta Edina , Aizpurua Javier , Baumberg Jeremy J.
Published: August 2024

Accessing the terahertz (THz) spectral domain through surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is challenging and opens up the study of low-frequency molecular and electronic excitations. Compared to direct THz probing of heterogenous ensembles, the extreme plasmonic confinement of visible light to deep sub-wavelength scales allows the study of hundreds or even single molecules. We show that self-assembled molecular monolayers of a set of simple aromatic thiols confined inside single-particle plasmonic nanocavities can be distinguished by their low-wavenumber spectral peaks below 200 cm−1, after removal of a bosonic inelastic contribution and an exponential background from the spectrum. Developing environment-dependent density-functional-theory simulations of the metal-molecule configuration enables the assignment and classification of their THz vibrations as well as the identification of intermolecular coupling effects and of the influence of the gold surface configuration. Furthermore, we show dramatically narrower THz SERS spectra from individual molecules at picocavities, which indicates the possibility to study intrinsic vibrational properties beyond inhomogeneous broadening, further supporting the key role of local environment.
Coevolution of craton margins and interiors during continental break-up
Authors: Gernon Thomas M. , Hincks Thea K. , Brune Sascha , Braun Jean , Jones Stephen M. , Keir Derek , Cunningham Alice , Glerum Anne
Published: August 2024

Many cratonic continental fragments dispersed during the rifting and break-up of Gondwana are bound by steep topographic landforms known as ‘great escarpments’1–4, which rim elevated plateaus in the craton interior5,6. In terms of formation, escarpments and plateaus are traditionally considered distinct owing to their spatial separation, occasionally spanning more than a thousand kilometres. Here we integrate geological observations, statistical analysis, geodynamic simulations and landscape-evolution models to develop a physical model that mechanistically links both phenomena to continental rifting. Escarpments primarily initiate at rift-border faults and slowly retreat at about 1 km Myr−1 through headward erosion. Simultaneously, rifting generates convective instabilities in the mantle7–10 that migrate cratonward at a faster rate of about 15–20 km Myr−1 along the lithospheric root, progressively removing cratonic keels11, driving isostatic uplift of craton interiors and forming a stable, elevated plateau. This process forces a synchronized wave of denudation, documented in thermochronology studies, which persists for tens of millions of years and migrates across the craton at a comparable or slower pace. We interpret the observed sequence of rifting, escarpment formation and exhumation of craton interiors as an evolving record of geodynamic mantle processes tied to continental break-up, upending the prevailing notion of cratons as geologically stable terrains.
Membrane prewetting by condensates promotes tight-junction belt formation
Authors: Pombo-García Karina , Adame-Arana Omar , Martin-Lemaitre Cecilie , Jülicher Frank , Honigmann Alf
Published: August 2024

Biomolecular condensates enable cell compartmentalization by acting as membraneless organelles1. How cells control the interactions of condensates with other cellular structures such as membranes to drive morphological transitions remains poorly understood. We discovered that formation of a tight-junction belt, which is essential for sealing epithelial tissues, is driven by a wetting phenomenon that promotes the growth of a condensed ZO-1 layer2 around the apical membrane interface. Using temporal proximity proteomics in combination with imaging and thermodynamic theory, we found that the polarity protein PATJ mediates a transition of ZO-1 into a condensed surface layer that elongates around the apical interface. In line with the experimental observations, our theory of condensate growth shows that the speed of elongation depends on the binding affinity of ZO-1 to the apical interface and is constant. Here, using PATJ mutations, we show that ZO-1 interface binding is necessary and sufficient for tight-junction belt formation. Our results demonstrate how cells exploit the collective biophysical properties of protein condensates at membrane interfaces to shape mesoscale structures.
Prognostic genome and transcriptome signatures in colorectal cancers
Authors: Nunes Luís , Li Fuqiang , Wu Meizhen , Luo Tian , Hammarström Klara , Torell Emma , Ljuslinder Ingrid , Mezheyeuski Artur , Edqvist Per-Henrik , Löfgren-Burström Anna , Zingmark Carl , Edin Sofia , Larsson Chatarina , Mathot Lucy , Osterman Erik , Osterlund Emerik , Ljungström Viktor , Neves Inês , Yacoub Nicole , Guðnadóttir Unnur , Birgisson Helgi , Enblad Malin , Ponten Fredrik , Palmqvist Richard , Xu Xun , Uhlén Mathias , Wu Kui , Glimelius Bengt , Lin Cong , Sjöblom Tobias
Published: August 2024

Colorectal cancer is caused by a sequence of somatic genomic alterations affecting driver genes in core cancer pathways1. Here, to understand the functional and prognostic impact of cancer-causing somatic mutations, we analysed the whole genomes and transcriptomes of 1,063 primary colorectal cancers in a population-based cohort with long-term follow-up. From the 96 mutated driver genes, 9 were not previously implicated in colorectal cancer and 24 had not been linked to any cancer. Two distinct patterns of pathway co-mutations were observed, timing analyses identified nine early and three late driver gene mutations, and several signatures of colorectal-cancer-specific mutational processes were identified. Mutations in WNT, EGFR and TGFβ pathway genes, the mitochondrial CYB gene and 3 regulatory elements along with 21 copy-number variations and the COSMIC SBS44 signature correlated with survival. Gene expression classification yielded five prognostic subtypes with distinct molecular features, in part explained by underlying genomic alterations. Microsatellite-instable tumours divided into two classes with different levels of hypoxia and infiltration of immune and stromal cells. To our knowledge, this study constitutes the largest integrated genome and transcriptome analysis of colorectal cancer, and interlinks mutations, gene expression and patient outcomes. The identification of prognostic mutations and expression subtypes can guide future efforts to individualize colorectal cancer therapy.
PTER is a N-acetyltaurine hydrolase that regulates feeding and obesity
Authors: Wei Wei , Lyu Xuchao , Markhard Andrew L. , Fu Sipei , Mardjuki Rachel E. , Cavanagh Peter E. , Zeng Xianfeng , Rajniak Jakub , Lu Nannan , Xiao Shuke , Zhao Meng , Moya-Garzon Maria Dolores , Truong Steven D. , Chou Jonathan Chiu‐Chun , Wat Lianna W. , Chidambaranathan-Reghupaty Saranya , Coassolo Laetitia , Xu Duo , Shen Fangfang , Huang Wentao , Ramirez Cuauhtemoc B. , Jang Cholsoon , Li Lingyin , Svensson Katrin J. , Fischbach Michael A. , Long Jonathan Z.
Published: August 2024

Taurine is a conditionally essential micronutrient and one of the most abundant amino acids in humans1–3. In endogenous taurine metabolism, dedicated enzymes are involved in the biosynthesis of taurine from cysteine and in the downstream metabolism of secondary taurine metabolites4,5. One taurine metabolite is N-acetyltaurine6. Levels of N-acetyltaurine are dynamically regulated by stimuli that alter taurine or acetate flux, including endurance exercise7, dietary taurine supplementation8 and alcohol consumption6,9. So far, the identities of the enzymes involved in N-acetyltaurine metabolism, and the potential functions of N-acetyltaurine itself, have remained unknown. Here we show that the body mass index associated orphan enzyme phosphotriesterase-related (PTER)10 is a physiological N-acetyltaurine hydrolase. In vitro, PTER catalyses the hydrolysis of N-acetyltaurine to taurine and acetate. In mice, PTER is expressed in the kidney, liver and brainstem. Genetic ablation of Pter in mice results in complete loss of tissue N-acetyltaurine hydrolysis activity and a systemic increase in N-acetyltaurine levels. After stimuli that increase taurine levels, Pter knockout mice exhibit reduced food intake, resistance to diet-induced obesity and improved glucose homeostasis. Administration of N-acetyltaurine to obese wild-type mice also reduces food intake and body weight in a GFRAL-dependent manner. These data place PTER into a central enzymatic node of secondary taurine metabolism and uncover a role for PTER and N-acetyltaurine in body weight control and energy balance.
Age-related epithelial defects limit thymic function and regeneration
Authors: Kousa Anastasia I. , Jahn Lorenz , Zhao Kelin , Flores Angel E. , Acenas Dante , Lederer Emma , Argyropoulos Kimon V. , Lemarquis Andri L. , Granadier David , Cooper Kirsten , D’Andrea Michael , Sheridan Julie M. , Tsai Jennifer , Sikkema Lisa , Lazrak Amina , Nichols Katherine , Lee Nichole , Ghale Romina , Malard Florent , Andrlova Hana , Velardi Enrico , Youssef Salma , Burgos da Silva Marina , Docampo Melissa , Sharma Roshan , Mazutis Linas , Wimmer Verena C. , Rogers Kelly L. , DeWolf Susan , Gipson Brianna , Gomes Antonio L. C. , Setty Manu , Pe’er Dana , Hale Laura , Manley Nancy R. , Gray Daniel H. D. , van den Brink Marcel R. M. , Dudakov Jarrod A.
Published: August 2024

The thymus is essential for establishing adaptive immunity yet undergoes age-related involution that leads to compromised immune responsiveness. The thymus is also extremely sensitive to acute insult and although capable of regeneration, this capacity declines with age for unknown reasons. We applied single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, lineage-tracing and advanced imaging to define age-related changes in nonhematopoietic stromal cells and discovered the emergence of two atypical thymic epithelial cell (TEC) states. These age-associated TECs (aaTECs) formed high-density peri-medullary epithelial clusters that were devoid of thymocytes; an accretion of nonproductive thymic tissue that worsened with age, exhibited features of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and was associated with downregulation of FOXN1. Interaction analysis revealed that the emergence of aaTECs drew tonic signals from other functional TEC populations at baseline acting as a sink for TEC growth factors. Following acute injury, aaTECs expanded substantially, further perturbing trophic regeneration pathways and correlating with defective repair of the involuted thymus. These findings therefore define a unique feature of thymic involution linked to immune aging and could have implications for developing immune-boosting therapies in older individuals.
Experimental validation of a low-cost maximum power point tracking technique based on artificial neural network for photovoltaic systems
Authors: Abouzeid Ahmed Fathy , Eleraky Hadeer , Kalas Ahmed , Rizk Rawya , Elsakka Mohamed Mohamed , Refaat Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is a technique involved in photovoltaic (PV) systems for optimizing the output power of solar panels. Traditional solutions like perturb and observe (P&O) and Incremental Conductance (IC) are commonly utilized to follow the MPP under various environmental circumstances. However, these algorithms suffer from slow tracking speed and low dynamics under fast-changing environment conditions. To cope with these demerits, a data-driven artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm for MPPT is proposed in this paper. By leveraging the learning capabilities of the ANN, the PV operating point can be adapted to dynamic changes in solar irradiation and temperature. Consequently, it offers promising solutions for MPPT in fast-changing environments as well as overcoming the limitations of traditional MPPT techniques. In this paper, simulations verification and experimental validation of a proposed data-driven ANN-MPPT technique are presented. Additionally, the proposed technique is analyzed and compared to traditional MPPT methods. The numerical and experimental findings indicate that, of the examined MPPT methods, the proposed ANN-MPPT approach achieves the highest MPPT efficiency at 98.16% and the shortest tracking time of 1.3 s.
Three-dimensional iodine mapping quantified by dual-energy CT for predicting programmed death-ligand 1 expression in invasive pulmonary adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yamagata Kazuki , Yanagawa Masahiro , Hata Akinori , Ogawa Ryo , Kikuchi Noriko , Doi Shuhei , Ninomiya Keisuke , Tokuda Yukiko , Tomiyama Noriyuki
Published: August 2024

We examined the association between texture features using three-dimensional (3D) io-dine density histogram on delayed phase of dual-energy CT (DECT) and expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) using immunostaining methods in non-small cell lung cancer. Consecutive 37 patients were scanned by DECT. Unenhanced and enhanced (3 min delay) images were obtained. 3D texture analysis was performed for each nodule to obtain 7 features (max, min, median, mean, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis) from iodine density mapping and extracellular volume (ECV). A pathologist evaluated a tumor proportion score (TPS, %) using PD-L1 immunostaining: PD-L1 high (TPS ≥ 50%) and low or negative expression (TPS < 50%). Associations between PD-L1 expression and each 8 parameter were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that skewness and ECV were independent indicators associated with high PD-L1 expression (skewness: odds ratio [OR]  7.1 [95% CI 1.1, 45.6], p = 0.039; ECV: OR 6.6 [95% CI 1.1, 38.4], p = 0.037). In the receiver-operating characteristic analysis, the area under the curve of the combination of skewness and ECV was 0.83 (95% CI 0.67, 0.93) with sensitivity of 64% and specificity of 96%. Skewness from 3D iodine density histogram and ECV on dual energy CT were significant factors for predicting PD-L1 expression.
Extrinsic chirality tailors Stokes parameters in simple asymmetric metasurfaces
Authors: Petronijevic Emilija , Cesca Tiziana , Scian Carlo , Mattei Giovanni , Li Voti Roberto , Sibilia Concita , Belardini Alessandro
Published: August 2024

Metasurfaces tailor electromagnetic confinement at the nanoscale and can be appropriately designed for polarization-dependent light–matter interactions.
Improving the analysis of phase-separated bio-fuel samples with slice-selective total correlation NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Khangura Jaskamal Singh , Tang Bridget , Chong Katie , Evans Robert
Published: August 2024

Separated samples are a particular challenge for NMR experiments.
Construction of ligand-binding controlled hemoprotein assemblies utilizing 3D domain swapping
Authors: Mashima Tsuyoshi , Yamanaka Masaru , Yoshida Atsuki , Kobayashi Naoya , Kanaoka Yui , Uchihashi Takayuki , Hirota Shun
Published: August 2024

Association-controllable hemoprotein assemblies by ligand binding were constructed from a fusion protein with two c-type cytochrome units using 3D domain swapping.
New bedaquiline salt with improved bioavailability and reduced food effect
Authors: Zhang Xiaowen , Meng Dongshuo , Zang Zongwu , Xu Zhiru , Liu Yu
Published: August 2024

A novel salt form of bedaquiline has been designed and prepared, which demonstrates superior in vivo absorption and reduced the food effect compared to commercially available products.
Matching ROY crystal structures to high-throughput PXRD
Authors: Sparrow Grace M. , Mayo R. Alex , Johnson Erin R.
Published: August 2024

The variable-cell experimental powder difference (VC-xPWDF) method allows matching of high-throughput powder X-ray diffractograms of ROY to candidate crystal structures.
Collective dynamics of Ca atoms encapsulated in C60 endohedral fullerenes
Authors: Cosinschi Mihaela , Preda Amanda T. , Pantis-Simut C.-A. , Filipoiu N. , Ghitiu I. , Dulea M. A. , Ion L. , Manolescu A. , Nemnes G. A.
Published: August 2024

Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations of Can@C60 (n = 1, 2, 3, 4) endohedral fullerenes indicate a correlated movement of the Ca atoms. The dynamical properties are recovered using a mapped force field by artificial neural networks.
4,7-Substituted 1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxamides: photophysics of ligands and their complexes with the Eu–Gd–Tb triad
Authors: Avagyan Nane A. , Lemport Pavel S. , Polikovskiy Trofim A. , Tsorieva Alisia V. , Metlin Mikhail T. , Taydakov Ilya V. , Zonov Roman V. , Lyssenko Konstantin A. , Vokuev Mikhail F. , Rodin Igor A. , Tarasevich Boris N. , Ustynyuk Yuri A. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: August 2024

The impact of substituents at the 4- and 7-positions of 1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxamides on the photophysical properties of the ligands and their coordination compounds with the triad of lanthanides was analyzed.
Ni-doping optimized d-band center in bifunctional Fe2O3 modified by bamboo-like NCNTs as a cathode material for Zn–air batteries
Authors: Shi Yang , Hu Songhan , Xu Xinxin , Chen Jin
Published: August 2024

In Fe2O3, the position of d-band center is optimized by Ni-doping, which improves its ORR/OER activities and the performance as a cathode material in Zn–air batteries.
Enhanced chemical looping CO2 conversion activity and thermal stability of perovskite LaCo1−xAlxO3 by Al substitution
Authors: Goto Yoshihiro , Yamazaki Kiyoshi , Kikugawa Masashi , Aoki Masakazu
Published: August 2024

Perovskite LaCo1−xAlxO3 exhibiting high thermal stability and chemical looping CO2 conversion activity was synthesized.
Realizing a high-performance n-type thermogalvanic cell by tailoring the thermodynamic equilibrium
Authors: Kim Sungryong , Kwon Jin Han , Bae Yurim , Kim Jeongsu , Park Taiho , Moon Hong Chul
Published: August 2024

Judiciously designed anionic polymer (AP) tunes the thermodynamic equilibrium between hydroquinone and benzoquinone via self-regulating pH and selective transport of mobile species in the AP, leading to high-performance n-type thermogalvanic cells.
Regulating intermediate adsorption and H2O dissociation on a diatomic catalyst to promote electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxue , Liu Xiaokang , Huang Zhen-Feng , Gan Li , Zhang Shishi , Jia Ru , Ajmal Muhammad , Pan Lun , Shi Chengxiang , Zhang Xiangwen , Yang Guidong , Zou Ji-Jun
Published: August 2024

Cu–Fe–N–C demonstrates excellent electrocatalytic activity for nitrate reduction by optimizing intermediate adsorption and generating a substantial supply of H* for the thorough hydrogenation of the N-containing intermediates.
Thymol: nature's solvent for sustainable hollow fiber fabrication
Authors: Syed Usman T. , Upadhyaya Lakshmeesha , Loiola Livia M. D. , Emwas Abdul-Hamid , Volkov Alexey , Nunes Suzana P.
Published: August 2024

Sustainable separation processes like membrane technology are crucial for chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Membrane fabrication needs green materials.
Tuning the photochromism of indeno-fused 2H-naphthopyrans using steric spirocyclic groups
Authors: Wei Ruiqi , Zhou Ruiyuan , Shen Ripei , Han Jie
Published: August 2024

A new class of indeno-fused 2H-naphthopyrans with a spirocyclic unit were designed and synthesized, which exhibited a fast thermal fading rate and high colorability both in solution and in the PMMA film.
Novel robust hierarchical porous membrane for uranium enrichment: fabrication, degradation behavior, and uranium sorption performance
Authors: Liu Zhixiao , Meng Lingjun , Xiong Haoye , Liao Lintao , Zhao Yuhang , Zhong Yiping , Xie Tongtong , Yan Yuhang , Hu Gao , Mi Zhiming
Published: August 2024

Fabrication of hierarchical porous CAP membrane for uranium sorption.
Hollow CuSe nanocubes as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for energy-saving overall urea–water electrolysis
Authors: Wang Shouyi , Liu Siyu , Yang Ying , Jiang Jiayao , Li Leijiao , Wang Tingting
Published: August 2024

Hollow CuSe nanocubes were developed through a simple template-directed selenium reaction as bifunctional electrocatalysts for urea-assisted water electrolyzer.
Estimating the extent of adulteration of the popular herbs black cohosh, echinacea, elder berry, ginkgo, and turmeric – its challenges and limitations
Authors: Orhan Nilüfer , Gafner Stefan , Blumenthal Mark
Published: August 2024

This review article focuses on the challenges and limitations of estimating the prevalence of adulteration in preparations made from black cohosh, echinacea, elder berry, ginkgo, and turmeric.
Enantioselective Michael addition of 3-hydroxy-2-pyridone to nitroolefins using cinchona-derived bifunctional organocatalysts
Authors: Gi Minseok , Oh Daehyun , Yang Sehun , Lee Jaeyong , Jung So Hyun , Baek Ju Ha , Ha Min Woo , Lee Geumwoo , Park Hyeung-geun
Published: August 2024

A highly enantioselective Michael addition is developed by the addition of 3-hydroxy-2-pyridone to nitroolefins using cinchona-derived bifunctional organocatalysts.
Alkyne-tagged imidazolium-based membrane cholesterol analogs for Raman imaging applications
Authors: Schultz Constanze , Wegner Tristan , Heusel Corinna , Gallagher Tim , Zheng Yanjun , Werner Markus , Wegner Seraphine V. , Meyer-Zedler Tobias , Werz Oliver , Schmitt Michael , Popp Juergen , Glorius Frank
Published: August 2024

Headgroup-labelled alkyne-tagged cholesterol mimetics with imidazolium cores were designed and probed for their use as Raman probes in mammalian cells. The analogs feature high membrane integration and tunability of their vibrational signature.
Structure–function relationships in pure archaeal bipolar tetraether lipids
Authors: Bhattacharya Ahanjit , Falk Isaac D. , Moss Frank R. , Weiss Thomas M. , Tran Khoi N. , Burns Noah Z. , Boxer Steven G.
Published: August 2024

A series of archaeal bipolar glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraether (GDGT) lipids were synthesized. Structural properties of self-assembled structures of GDGTs were studied and related to functional behavior such as membrane fusion.
Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial activity of ZnO-QDs @ bis MPA polyester-64-hydroxyl dendrimer nanostructures
Authors: Zala Archana , Patel Harshad
Published: August 2024

This study presents the successful synthesis and characterization of five novel zinc oxide quantum dots @ bis MPA polyester-64-hydroxyl dendrimer nanostructures with tuneable hydrophilicity.
Chemical transformation, exposure assessment, and policy implications of fluorotelomer alcohol partitioning from consumer products to the indoor and outdoor environment—from production to end-of-life
Authors: Titaley Ivan A.
Published: August 2024

Much is known about fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs) in consumer products and FTOHs release to the environment. This Perspective provides some understanding of the release of FTOHs to the environment throughout the lifetime of consumer products.
Unlocking high-efficiency energy storage and conversion with biocompatible electrodes: the key role of interfacial interaction assembly and structural design
Authors: Ahn Jeongyeon , Lim Hyeseoung , Ko Jongkuk , Cho Jinhan
Published: August 2024

This perspective paper covers textile- and hydrogel-based biocompatible electrodes, and their applications for supercapacitors, biofuel cells, and actuators, focusing on the importance of interfacial interactions between electrode components.
A Case Study of Suspected Childhood Apraxia of Sign
Authors: Jackson Christyn , Hagstrom Lauren , Emmorey Karen
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

We provide a case report of “Zoe,” a 4-year-old deaf child from a deaf signing family, who presented with a possible case of Childhood Apraxia of Sign (CASign).

Method:

The description is based on reports from the child's speech-language pathologist, her Individualized Education Program report, and a clinician-created sign imitation task.

Results:

Zoe's sign articulation errors in American Sign Language differed from those reported for typically developing deaf children and were parallel to the types of errors observed for hearing children with childhood apraxia of speech. Specifically, Zoe produced inconsistent errors across signs, substituted more complex handshapes for simple handshapes, made errors on both unmarked (common) and marked (less common) forms, produced articulatory distortions (rather than substitutions), and exhibited “groping” behaviors (a sequence of attempts to move her hands into the correct position). In addition, Zoe sometimes self-corrected her errors by manipulating her own hands, for example, using her left hand to move the thumb of her right hand into the correct position.

Conclusion:

Zoe's pattern of sign errors is consistent with an underlying deficit in motor planning and/or programming and may constitute the first reported case of CASign.
Search of extended emission from HESS J1702-420 with eROSITA
Authors: Malyshev Denys , Chernyakova Maria , Aharonian Felix , Santangelo Andrea
Published: August 2024

Context. HESS J1702-420 is a peculiar TeV complex with a morphology changing from a diffuse source (HESS J1702-420B) at ≲2 TeV to a point-like one (HESS J1702-420A) at ≳10 TeV energies. The morphology and spectral properties of HESS J1702-420 could be understood in terms of (diffusive) hadronic or leptonic models in which the observed TeV emission arises correpondingly from proton-proton or IC-radiation of relativistic particles present in the region.

Aims. In this work, we perform searches of the X-ray counterpart of the HESS J1702-420B source originating from the synchrotron emission of the primary or secondary relativistic electrons produced within leptonic or hadronic models. Such an emission can be extended and remain beyond the detection capabilities of narrow field-of-view instruments such as XMM-Newton.

Methods. We utilised the publicly available first-6-months eROSITA dataset (DR1) fully covering the selected analysis region of > 5°-radius around HESS J1702-420. We discuss biases connected to variable plasma temperature or neutral hydrogen column density in the region and present results based on the background modelling approach.

Results. The performed analysis does not allow us to detect the extended X-ray counterpart of HESS J1702-420 of 0.07° −3°-radii sizes. The derived upper limits are significantly higher than the expected hadronic model flux of the X-ray counterpart. For the leptonic model, the derived limits indicate the magnetic field in the region B ≲ 2 μG. We argue that further advances in the diffuse X-ray counterpart searches could be achieved with either next-generation missions or Msec-long observational campaigns using currently operating instruments.
Revealing faint compact radio jets at redshifts above 5 with very long baseline interferometry
Authors: Krezinger M. , Baldini G. , Giroletti M. , Sbarrato T. , Ghisellini G. , Giovannini G. , An T. , Gabányi K. É. , Frey S.
Published: August 2024

Context. Over the past two decades, our knowledge of the high-redshift (z > 5) radio quasars has expanded, thanks to dedicated high-resolution very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations. Distant quasars provide unique information about the formation and evolution of the first galaxies and supermassive black holes in the Universe. Powerful relativistic jets are likely to have played an essential role in these processes. However, the sample of VLBI-observed radio quasars is still too small to allow meaningful statistical conclusions.

Aims. We extend the list of the VLBI observed radio quasars to investigate how the source structure and physical parameters are related to radio loudness.

Methods. We assembled a sample of ten faint radio quasars located at 5 < z < 6 with their radio-loudness indices spanning between 0.9 − 76. We observed the selected targets with the European VLBI Network (EVN) at 1.7 GHz. The milliarcsecond-scale resolution of VLBI at this frequency allowed us to probe the compact innermost parts of radio-emitting relativistic jets. In addition to the single-band VLBI observations, we collected single-dish and low-resolution radio interferometric data to investigate the spectral properties and variability of our sources.

Results. The detection rate of this high-redshift, low-flux-density sample is 90%, with only one target (J0306+1853) remaining undetected. The other nine sources appear core-dominated and show a single, faint and compact radio core on this angular scale. The derived radio powers are typical of Fanaroff-Riley II radio galaxies and quasars. By extending our sample with other VLBI-detected z > 5 sources from the literature, we found that the core brightness temperatures and monochromatic radio powers tend to increase with radio loudness.
Impact of final design on daylight provision
Authors: Bálint Palmgren Oscar , Tân Trần Duy , Davidsson Henrik , Gentile Niko
Published: August 2024

Daylight analysis informs design decisions in architectural spaces, yet materials, colours, and furnishings - often chosen later - can significantly impact indoor daylighting. This study assessed these effects in a typical open-plan office in Copenhagen using parametric simulations with Radiance through Honeybee in Grasshopper, complemented by a sensitivity analysis following the Morris method. Various office sizes, window-to-wall ratios, orientations, and interior finishes were analysed for daylight factors (DF), Daylight Autonomy (DA), and Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI). Results indicated that the visual transmittance of windows, furniture quantity, and partition height notably influenced daylighting, whereas surface reflectance had a lesser impact. The study also revealed complexities in predicting daylighting due to non-linear effects and variable interactions. The study suggests that designers might overestimate daylight in early design phases when spaces are unfurnished, indicating the need to clarify the use of furniture in daylight certification models.
Hybrid Ventilation Systems for Reduced Lifetime Emissions in Cold Climates
Authors: Rabani Mehrdad , Petersen Arnkell Jonas , Steneng Christian , Utstøl Simon , Halla Haakon
Published: August 2024

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are notable sources of emissions in buildings. In cold climates, mechanical ventilation systems are characterized by significant initial embodied emissions but benefit from reduced operational emissions related to heating energy. On the other hand, natural ventilation systems have the advantage of lower initial embodied emissions but will use more heating energy, in cold climates, for the same atmospheric quality, due to the general lack of efficient heat recovery solutions. Hybrid ventilation systems are hybrids of these, using a combination of driving forces. This study utilized a life cycle assessment (LCA) to compare lifetime emissions of hybrid and mechanical ventilation systems in a Nordic climate. Findings suggest that hybrid ventilation systems can yield lower lifetime emissions, provided upfront emissions are reduced without significantly increasing energy consumption. Reduction potential in upfront emissions is more substantial in open landscape offices than classrooms due to higher person density in classrooms necessitating more fresh air, limiting reductions that can be achieved without thermal discomfort during the winter season. Our study shows the feasibility of reducing the carbon footprint of ventilation systems by employing hybrid climatization strategies.
Rapid neighbourhood-scale modelling of urban heat risks for early-stage quantification of potential passive design mitigation strategy effectiveness: Copenhagen test case
Authors: Swedberg Nicholas C.
Published: August 2024

This study employed the urban weather generator (UWG) to model the formation of the urban heat island (UHI) across the twelve (12) districts (bydele) of the City of Copenhagen (Københavns Kommune). In the face of projected future population growth, increased urban development, and rising global temperatures, it is necessary to quantify the ability of sustainable urban development objectives to mitigate the formation of UHIs. Assessment of baseline UHI formation in Copenhagen allowed for testing passive UHI mitigation strategies as defined in Copenhagen’s Kommuneplan 19 (KP19). The results of this study identified city districts experiencing higher baseline levels of urban heat and the effectiveness of the passive UHI mitigation strategies proposed in KP19. Additionally, results from this study suggest that UHI mitigation strategies are more effective combined.
Inotherm+; A next generation highly efficient thermal energy system for energy positive buildings
Authors: Jenssen Bjørn , Dokka Tor Helge , Lund Robert Hoel , Lassen Niels
Published: August 2024

The thermal energy system in the energy positive Powerhouse Brattørkaia*is one of the worlds most efficient ones. It has been awarded with the NOVAP† heat pump award in 2020 and the EHPA‡ heat pump award in the DecarBuilding category in 2021. This paper describesand documents the estimated performance of a next generation highly efficient thermal energy system for energy positive buildings. The system is namedInotherm+, and will be implemented in several future projects. The system is designed to efficiently cover 100 % of the buildings domestic hot water, heating and cooling demand. The first pilot project with this solution,Lindesnes Helsehus, is currently under construction, and simulations show about 30-50 % improvement of the SCOP factor compared to the original system implemented in Powerhouse Brattørkaia. The new design combines a thermal battery, a thermal storage system for domestic hot water, a low exergy heating and cooling system [1], a geothermal energy system, and an industrial R717 heat pump equipped with a desuperheater.