bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Surface Nuclear Magnetic Resonance With Absurdly Long Excitation Pulses
Authors: Larsen Jakob Juul , Kass M. Andy , Grombacher Denys , Griffiths Matthew P.
Published: October 2024

The common understanding in surface nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is that the excitation pulse should be kept much shorter than the NMR relaxation times for an effective excitation. We present analytic, numerical, and experimental evidence demonstrating that this need not be so, and surface NMR signals can be retrieved even for absurdly long excitation pulses. We solve the Bloch equations in the limit of infinitely long excitation and use this result to demonstrate that a measurable magnetization can be obtained with long excitation pulses. We perform numerical simulations of the Bloch equations incorporating effects of relaxation‐during‐pulse, and our results suggest that long excitation pulses can be used to increase the depth of investigation, but that the spatial resolution of long pulse excitation is low. Data collected in Kompedal, Denmark using up to 3 s long excitation pulses provide experimental proof for the feasibility of long pulse surface NMR.
Imaging the May 2024 Extreme Aurora With Ionospheric Total Electron Content
Authors: Foster J. C. , Erickson P. J. , Nishimura Y. , Zhang S. R. , Bush D. C. , Coster A. J. , Meade P. E. , Franco‐Diaz E.
Published: October 2024

The continental United States is well instrumented with facilities for mid‐latitude upper atmosphere research that operate on a continuous basis. In addition, citizen scientists provide a wealth of information when unusual events occur. We combine ionospheric total electron content (TEC) data from distributed arrays of GNSS receivers, magnetometer chains, and auroral observations obtained by citizen scientists, to provide a detailed view of the intense auroral breakup and westward surge occurring at the peak of the 10–11 May 2024 extreme geomagnetic storm. Over a 20‐min interval, vertical TEC (vTEC) increased at unusually low latitude (∼45°) and rapidly expanded azimuthally across the continent. Individual receiver/satellite data sets indicate sharp bursts of greatly elevated of vTEC (∼50 TECu). Intense red aurora was co‐located with the leading edge of the equatorward and westward TEC enhancements, indicating that the large TEC enhancement was created by extremely intense low‐energy precipitation during the rapid substorm breakup.
The Deep Western Boundary Current of the Southwest Pacific Basin: Insights From Deep Argo
Authors: Chandler Mitchell , Zilberman Nathalie V. , Sprintall Janet
Published: October 2024

The deep western boundary current (DWBC) of the Southwest Pacific Basin (SWPB) is the main pathway through which the deep and bottom waters formed around Antarctica are transported northward and distributed throughout the Pacific Ocean. However, historical observations of this current are sparse. Here, we used an unprecedented number of deep‐ocean observations collected by Deep Argo floats since 2016 to examine temperature, salinity, and velocity in the DWBC of the SWPB. Deep Argo trajectory velocities were fastest along the western side of the Kermadec Trench, with an average velocity of  m s−1. Trajectories confirmed the existence of a tight recirculation on the eastern side of the Kermadec Trench ( m s−1). This recirculation was likewise seen in an independent eddy‐resolving ocean reanalysis. For the DWBC within the northern Kermadec Trench (26–30°S), Deep Argo profiles and the ocean reanalysis demonstrated seasonal isopycnal heaving of the deep‐ocean that was likely driven by local Ekman pumping and may influence seasonal DWBC transport. At the northern end of the Kermadec Trench, the deep‐ocean salinity maximum was eroded as the DWBC exited the trench to the north through the Louisville Seamount Chain collision zone, thus revealing a previously unidentified region of enhanced deep‐ocean mixing. Although Deep Argo observations accurately estimated vertical turbulent diffusivity in the Samoan Passage (6.1  10−3 to 1.57 10−2 m2 s−1), mixing within the Louisville Seamount Chain collision zone was not due solely to vertical turbulent diffusivity. A global Deep Argo array could reveal wind‐driven seasonal heaving and unexplored deep‐ocean mixing hotspots in other DWBCs.
Phosphorus Speciation, Migration and Transformation in Seawater and Sediments and Potential Role in Starfish Outbreaks of the Xisha Islands, Northern South China Sea
Authors: Ning Zhiming , Liu Zhijin , Yu Kefu , Yang Bin , Huang Xueyong , Jiang Wei
Published: October 2024

Periodic outbreaks of crown‐of‐thorns starfish have led to severe coral reef degradation, with one hypothesized cause being eutrophication. Phosphorus (P) is one of the driving factors for eutrophication, but researches on the spatiotemporal distributions of P in coral reefs are limited, impeding our understanding of the P cycling in coral reefs and its correlation with starfish outbreaks. This study undertook an analysis of various P species, migration and transformation in seawater, sediments, and crown‐of‐thorns starfish within the coral reefs of the Xisha Islands, northern South China Sea. The results show that in seawater, P predominantly existed in the dissolved phase, with organic P constituting the largest fraction (>67%). Conversely, in sediments, P primarily existed as inorganic form (43%−95%), with calcium‐bound P comprising the majority (26%−46%). Notably, exchangeable P accounted for a relatively smaller fraction (9%−20%) but played a significant role as a source of P released from sediments into seawater (0.01−0.17 mmol m−2 hr−1). During starfish outbreaks, starfish (1,000 individuals per hectare) assimilated P from seawater via phytoplankton or corals, resulting in substantial accumulation of both organic and inorganic P in their tissues (69−315 μmol g−1). Meanwhile, starfish excretion released P back into the seawater, which contributes to the migration and transformation of various P forms. Historical data also show a close relationship between P content and starfish density. These findings highlight the interactions between starfish and P cycling within coral reefs, and provide valuable insights into conservation and restoration on coral reefs, especially those severely affected by starfish outbreaks.
Phytoplankton Response to the Record‐Breaking Marine Heatwave in the Summer of 2020 in the South China Sea
Authors: Zheng Jingjing , Xiu Peng , Zeng Lili , Zhu Xueming , Ji Xuanlian , Gao Shan , Li Zhijie
Published: October 2024

A record‐breaking marine heatwave (MHW) occurred in the South China Sea (SCS) during the summer of 2020, causing substantial ecological impacts, while its influence on phytoplankton dynamics remains unknown. Here we employed a regionally optimized physical‐biogeochemical model to examine the phytoplankton response to this event. An analysis of the mixed‐layer heat budget in the MHW region revealed that the MHW was driven by enhanced shortwave radiation and reduced horizontal advection of cold water, associated with weakened upwelling off the coast of Vietnam. For phytoplankton, average surface chlorophyll‐a (Chla) concentrations during the MHW experienced a significant decline in June and July, and a slight reduction in September compared to normal conditions, which can be attributed to reduced horizontal advection of nutrients associated with weakened upwelling. Furthermore, we found that the reduction in depth‐integrated Chla in the euphotic zone was much smaller during the MHW due to the increase in subsurface Chla, which was also attributable to the changed lateral transport. This study highlights the importance of non‐local effects of MHWs on phytoplankton distributions in the SCS.
How Does the East Siberian Sea Ice Affect the June Drought Over Northwest China After 2000?
Authors: Liu Yang , Sun Jianqi
Published: October 2024

Changes in Arctic sea ice have exerted remarkably effects on the Eurasian climates, but it is unclear whether Arctic sea ice also contributes to Northwest China's ongoing summer drought. This study investigates the influence of the interannual variability of Arctic sea ice on the June drought in Northwest China from 1979 to 2021. It reveals that the early‐autumn sea ice in the East Siberian Sea is correlated with drought conditions in June in Northwest China, with a more pronounced connection during the period of 2000/2001–2020/2021 (P2) compared to 1979/1980–1999/2000 (P1). Mitigated drought in Northwest China is associated with anomalously high sea ice concentration (SIC) in the East Siberian Sea. Further analysis suggests that the strengthened link may be due to greater SIC variability in the East Siberian Sea during P2 than P1. In P2, positive early‐autumn SIC anomaly is linked to anomalous northeasterly winds, promoting drier soil and widespread cooling in the East European Plain. This dry soil signal may persist into the ensuing spring and early summer, inducing an anticyclonic circulation anomaly over Siberia, which could facilitate the water vapor convergence in Northwest China, thereby enhancing humidity conditions in the region. The insights from this study could offer valuable information for improved prediction of droughts in Northwest China.
Evaluation of Leaf Phenology of Different Vegetation Types From Local to Hemispheric Scale in CLM
Authors: Li Xiaolu , Carrillo Carlos M. , Ault Toby , Richardson Andrew D. , Friedl Mark A. , Frolking Steve
Published: October 2024

Accurate simulation of plant phenology is important in Earth system models as phenology modulates land‐atmosphere coupling and the carbon cycle. Evaluations based on grid cell average leaf area index (LAI) can be misleading because multiple plant functional types (PFTs) may be present in one model grid cell and PFTs with different phenology schemes have different LAI seasonal cycles. Here we examined PFT‐specific LAI magnitudes and seasonal cycles in the Community Land Model versions 5.0 and 4.5 (CLM5.0 and CLM4.5) and their relationship with the onset of growing season triggers in the Northern Hemisphere. LAI seasonal cycle and spring onset in CLM show the best agreement with Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) for temperature‐dominated deciduous PFTs. Although the agreement in LAI magnitude between CLM5.0 and MODIS is better than CLM4.5, the agreement in seasonal cycles is worse in CLM5.0. Agreements between CLM and MODIS leaf phenology are primarily determined by the PFT and phenology scheme. While productivity depends on the environmental factors to which the plant is exposed during any given growing season, differences in phenology sensitivity to its environment necessitate a decoupling between the seasonality of LAI and GPP, which in turn could lead to biases in the carbon cycle as well as surface energy balance and hence land‐atmosphere interactions. Because the discrepancy not only depends on parameterizing phenology but phenology‐environment relationship, future improvements to other model components (e.g., soil moisture) could better align the seasonal cycle of LAI and GPP.
Distinguishing the Impacts and Gradient Effects of Climate Change and Human Activities on Vegetation Cover in the Weihe River Basin, China
Authors: Lv Wen‐Bo , Liu Fang‐Mei , Cai Kai , Cao Yue , Deng Meng‐Ling , Liang Wei , Yan Jian‐Wu , Wang Guang‐Yu
Published: October 2024

Vegetation cover is crucial for ecosystem stability, responding sensitively to climate change and human activities, and is prone to irreversible degradation. However, the mechanisms driving vegetation variations due to natural and anthropogenic factors still need to be fully understood. This study focused on the Weihe River Basin to elucidate the response mechanism of vegetation cover change to climate change and human activities from 2001 to 2020. Long time‐series multi‐source data were combined with a pixel dichotomy model, Theil–Sen median trend analysis, and Mann‐Kendall test to examine the trends and delineate five gradients in vegetation cover change. Additionally, Extreme Gradient Boosting, the Shapley value, and a structural equation model were employed to investigate the multidimensional response of vegetation cover in the basin as a whole and different vegetation cover gradients. The results revealed a general upward trend in vegetation coverage in the Weihe River Basin from 2001 to 2020. Topographic conditions and human activities were identified as primary influencers. Notably, accounting for climate change, particularly about changes in maximum climatic variables, was found to be essential, with temperature changes exerting a greater impact on vegetation cover variations compared to precipitation changes. The interaction between human activities, climate change, and topographic conditions can alter the intensity of each factor’s effect. The direction of indicators mentioned above varied across the vegetation cover gradients, emphasizing the need for localized strategies to improve vegetation. These findings offer valuable insights into ecological protection and vegetation restoration in the Weihe River Basin.
Multiphase Reactions of Hydrocarbons Into an Air Quality Model With CAMx‐UNIPAR: Impacts of Humidity and NOx on Secondary Organic Aerosol Formation in the Southern USA
Authors: Jo Yujin , Jang Myoseon , Madhu Azad , Choi Jiwon , Park Jinsoo
Published: October 2024

Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) mass in the Southern USA during winter‐spring 2022 was simulated by integrating Comprehensive Air quality Model with extensions (CAMx) with the UNIfied Partitioning‐Aerosol phase Reaction (UNIPAR) model, which predicts SOA formation via multiphase reactions of hydrocarbons. UNIPAR streamlines multiphase partitioning of oxygenated products and their heterogeneous reactions by using explicitly predicted products originating from 10 aromatics, 3 biogenics, and linear/branched alkanes (C9‐C24). UNIPAR simulations were compared with those using Secondary Organic Aerosol Partitioning (SOAP) model, which uses simple surrogate products for each precursor. Both UNIPAR and SOAP showed similar tendencies in SOA mass but slightly underpredicted against observations at given five ground sites. However, SOA compositions and their sensitivity to environmental variables (sunlight, humidity, NOx, and SO2) were different between two models. In CAMx‐UNIPAR, SOA originated predominantly from alkanes, terpenes, and isoprene, and was influenced by humidity, showing high SOA concentrations with wet‐inorganic salts, which accelerated aqueous reactions of reactive organic products. NO2 was positively correlated with biogenic SOA because elevated levels of nitrate radicals and hygroscopic nitrate aerosol effectively oxidized biogenic hydrocarbons at night and promoted SOA growth via organic heterogeneous chemistry, respectively. Anthropogenic SOA, which formed mainly via daytime oxidation with OH radicals, was weakly and negatively correlated with NO2 in cities. In CAMx‐UNIPAR, the sensitivity of SOA to aerosol acidity (neutral vs. acidic aerosol at cation/anion = 0.62) was dominated by isoprene SOA. The reduction of NOx emissions could effectively mitigate SOA burdens in the Southern USA where biogenic hydrocarbons are abundant.
Early Pleistocene Orbital‐Scale Variability in Australian Northwest Shelf Sediments
Authors: Zhao Song , Grant Katharine M. , Heslop David , Gallagher Stephen J. , Bolton Clara T. , Auer Gerald
Published: October 2024

Paleoclimate proxy records from regions sensitive to humidity/aridity extremes provide crucial insights into the natural forcing mechanisms underlying long‐term climate variability in broader regions. One such area is Northwest Australia, where the Australian monsoon impacts its northernmost fringes, which are bordered by the Great Sandy Desert inland. Marine sediments from the Australian Northwest Shelf record fluvial run‐off and eolian dust input during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. The location is therefore ideal for investigating long‐term variability in the Australian monsoon and Northwest Australian dust flux over orbital timescales. However, there are few continuous, high‐resolution paleoclimate records from this region spanning the early Pleistocene, when strong ice‐climate feedbacks of the late Pleistocene did not yet dominate global climate. Here, we present geochemical and environmental magnetic proxy records that reveal %CaCO3 and dust‐flux variability between 2.9 and 1.6 million years (Myr) ago from International Ocean Discovery Program Expedition 356 Site U1464 on the Australian Northwest Shelf. We establish a new, orbitally‐tuned chronology for Site U1464, primarily based on ∼400 thousand year (kyr) eccentricity cyclicity in %CaCO3, and observe strong obliquity variability (41 and 54 kyr periodicities) but almost no precession signal in the dust‐flux records. We propose that the 41 kyr cycle in Northwest Australian dust flux could be a linear response to East Asian winter monsoon intensity and/or the summer inter‐tropical insolation gradient (SITIG), whereas the 54 kyr cyclicity might be a non‐linear response to obliquity amplitude modulation via the SITIG effect on the cross‐equatorial atmospheric circulations.
Multi-particle quantum walks on 3D integrated photonic chip
Authors: Zhou Wen-Hao , Wang Xiao-Wei , Ren Ruo-Jing , Fu Yu-Xuan , Chang Yi-Jun , Xu Xiao-Yun , Tang Hao , Jin Xian-Min
Published: October 2024

Quantum walks provide a speed-up in computational power for various quantum algorithms and serve as inspiration for the construction of complex graph representations. Many pioneering works have been dedicated to expanding the experimental state space and the complexity of graphs. However, these experiments are mostly limited to small experimental scale, which do not reach a many-body level and fail to reflect the multi-particle quantum interference effects among non-adjacent modes. Here, we present a quantum walk with three photons on a two-dimensional triangular lattice, which is mapped to a 19 × 19 × 19 high-dimensional state space and constructs a complex graph with 6859 nodes and 45,486 edges. By utilizing the statistical signatures of the output combinations and incorporating machine learning techniques, we successfully validate the nonclassical properties of the experiment. Our implementation provides a paradigm for exponentially expanding the state space and graph complexity of quantum walks, paving the way for surmounting the classical regime in large-scale quantum simulations.
Non-B DNA-informed mutation burden as a marker of treatment response and outcome in cancer
Authors: Xu Qi , Kowalski Jeanne
Published: October 2024

Background

Genomic instability is crucial in tumorigenesis, with Tumour Mutation Burden (TMB) being a biomarker to indicate therapeutic effectiveness, particularly in immunotherapy. However, TMB is not always a reliable predictor and displays heterogeneity. Non-B DNA, susceptible to mutations, play a significant role in cancer development, indicating their potential merit when combined with mutation for enhanced markers in cancer.

Methods

We assessed mutations and non-B DNA interplay as biomarkers. Our methodology quantifies tumour mutations and their co-localization with non-B DNA, using survival and drug sensitivity assessments for clinical relevance.

Results

We introduce two novel markers, ‘nbTMB’ (non-B-informed tumour mutation burden) and ‘mlTNB’ (mutation-localised tumour non-B burden). In case studies: (1) nbTMB informs on survival heterogeneity among TMB-high patients undergoing immunotherapy whereas TMB is unable to further differentiate; (2) nbTMB informs on altered cisplatin sensitivity among ovarian cancer cell lines whereas TMB is unable to differentiate; and (3) mlTNB informs on survival heterogeneity among early-stage pancreatic cancer progressors in whom other markers of genomic instability fail to differentiate.

Conclusions

These novel markers offer a nuanced approach to enhance our understanding of treatment responses and outcomes in cancer, underscoring the need for a comprehensive exploration of the interplay between non-B and B-DNA features.
Absence of Langerhans cells resulted in over-influx of neutrophils and increased bacterial burden in skin wounds
Authors: Wang Zheng-Cai , Hu Yan-Yan , Shen Xiao Z. , Tan Wei-Qiang
Published: October 2024

Langerhans cells (LCs) are resident dendritic cells in the epidermis and their roles in presenting antigens derived from microorganisms present in the skin has been well appreciated. However, it is generally thought that incoming neutrophils are mainly responsible for eradicating invading pathogens in the early stage of wounds and a role of LCs in innate immunity is elusive. In the current study, we showed that wounds absent of LCs had a delayed closure. Mechanistically, LCs were the primary cells in warding off bacteria invasion at the early stage of wound healing. Without LCs, commensal bacteria quickly invaded and propagated in the wounded area. keratinocytes surrounding the wounds responded to the excessive bacteria by elevated production of CXCL5, resulting in an over-influx of neutrophils. The over-presence of activated neutrophils, possibly together with the aggravated invasion of bacteria, was detrimental to epidermal progenitor cell propagation and re-epithelialization. These observations underscore an indispensable role of LCs as effective guardians that preclude both bacteria invasion and damages inflicted by secondary inflammation.
Retinal pigment epithelium-specific ablation of GPx4 in adult mice recapitulates key features of geographic atrophy in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Azuma Kunihiro , Suzuki Takafumi , Kobayashi Kenta , Nagahara Masako , Imai Hirotaka , Suga Akiko , Iwata Takeshi , Shiraya Tomoyasu , Aihara Makoto , Ueta Takashi
Published: October 2024

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the elderly population, particularly the late-stage of dry AMD known as geographic atrophy (GA), lacks effective treatment options. Genetic mouse models of AMD have revealed the significance of impaired lipid metabolism and anti-oxidative capacity in early/intermediate stage of AMD, but remains unclear in GA that severely damages visual function. Here, to investigate the potential relevance of peroxidized lipids in RPE for late-stage dry AMD, GPx4fl/fl mice underwent subretinal injections of RPE-specific AAV-Cre vector or control AAV vector. RPE-specific GPx4 deficiency led to rapid RPE degeneration resembling key features of late-stage dry AMD, including preceding loss of RPE cell polarity, accumulation of acrolein, malondialdehyde, and 4-hydroxynonenal, photoreceptor loss, lipofuscin-laden subretinal melanophage infiltration, and complement activation. Treatment with α-tocopherol and ferrostatin-1 mitigated RPE degeneration, and shrunk mitochondria were observed in GPx4 deficient mice, suggesting involvement of ferroptosis. Unexpectedly, necrostatin-1s, an inhibitor of necroptosis, also ameliorated RPE degeneration, and activation of RIP3 and MLKL along with inactivation of caspase-8 was observed, indicating crosstalk between ferroptosis and necroptosis pathways. Our findings shed light on the intricate mechanisms underlying RPE degeneration in AMD and highlight GPx4/lipid peroxidation as potential therapeutic targets. RPE-specific ablation of GPx4 in mice provides a valuable tool for further elucidating the interplay between lipid peroxidation, cell death pathways, and AMD pathogenesis, offering new insights for preclinical research and therapeutic development targeting GA.
The homeodomain regulates stable DNA binding of prostate cancer target ONECUT2
Authors: Chatterjee Avradip , Gallent Brad , Katiki Madhusudhanarao , Qian Chen , Harter Matthew R. , Silletti Steve , Komives Elizabeth A. , Freeman Michael R. , Murali Ramachandran
Published: October 2024

The CUT and homeodomain are ubiquitous DNA binding elements often tandemly arranged in multiple transcription factor families. However, how the CUT and homeodomain work concertedly to bind DNA remains unknown. Using ONECUT2, a driver and therapeutic target of advanced prostate cancer, we show that while the CUT initiates DNA binding, the homeodomain thermodynamically stabilizes the ONECUT2-DNA complex through allosteric modulation of CUT. We identify an arginine pair in the ONECUT family homeodomain that can adapt to DNA sequence variations. Base interactions by this ONECUT family-specific arginine pair as well as the evolutionarily conserved residues are critical for optimal DNA binding and ONECUT2 transcriptional activity in a prostate cancer model. The evolutionarily conserved base interactions additionally determine the ONECUT2-DNA binding energetics. These findings provide insights into the cooperative DNA binding by CUT-homeodomain proteins.
Spatial dynamics of CD39+CD8+ exhausted T cell reveal tertiary lymphoid structures-mediated response to PD-1 blockade in esophageal cancer
Authors: Tanoue Kenro , Ohmura Hirofumi , Uehara Koki , Ito Mamoru , Yamaguchi Kyoko , Tsuchihashi Kenji , Shinohara Yudai , Lu Peng , Tamura Shingo , Shimokawa Hozumi , Isobe Taichi , Ariyama Hiroshi , Shibata Yoshihiro , Tanaka Risa , Kusaba Hitoshi , Esaki Taito , Mitsugi Kenji , Kiyozawa Daisuke , Iwasaki Takeshi , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Oda Yoshinao , Akashi Koichi , Baba Eishi
Published: October 2024

Despite the success of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy for esophageal squamous cell cancer, the key immune cell populations that affect ICB efficacy remain unclear. Here, imaging mass cytometry of tumor tissues from ICB-treated patients identifies a distinct cell population of CD39+PD-1+CD8+ T cells, specifically the TCF1+ subset, precursor exhausted T (CD39+ Tpex) cells, which positively correlate with ICB benefit. CD39+ Tpex cells are predominantly in the stroma, while differentiated CD39+ exhausted T cells are abundantly and proximally within the parenchyma. Notably, CD39+ Tpex cells are concentrated within and around tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS). Accordingly, tumors harboring TLSs have more of these cells in tumor areas than tumors lacking TLSs, suggesting Tpex cell recruitment from TLSs to tumors. In addition, circulating CD39+ Tpex cells are also increased in responders following ICB therapy. Our findings show that this unique subpopulation of CD39+PD-1+CD8+ T cells is crucial for ICB benefit, and suggest a key role in TLS-mediated immune responses against tumors.
In vitro analysis suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection differentially modulates cancer-like phenotypes and cytokine expression in colorectal and prostate cancer cells
Authors: Serwaa Alberta , Oyawoye Fatima , Owusu Irene Amoakoh , Dosoo Daniel , Manu Aaron Adom , Sobo Augustine Kojo , Fosu Kwadwo , Olwal Charles Ochieng , Quashie Peter Kojo , Aikins Anastasia Rosebud
Published: October 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) reportedly exacerbates cancer outcomes. However, how COVID-19 influences cancer prognosis and development remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the effect of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent of COVID-19, on cellular cancer phenotypes the expression of cancer-related markers, and various proinflammatory cytokines. We infected prostate (22RV1) and colorectal (DLD-1) cancer cell lines, which express angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), with spike pseudovirus (sPV) and laboratory stocks of live SARS-CoV-2 viruses. After infection, we quantified changes in the cellular cancer phenotypes, the gene expression levels of some cancer markers, including Ki-67, BCL-2, VIM, MMP9, and VEGF, and proinflammatory cytokines. Phenotypic analysis was performed using MTT and wound healing assays, whereas gene expression analysis was carried out using real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). We show that SARS-CoV-2 infection impacts several key cellular pathways involved in cell growth, apoptosis, and migration, in prostate and colorectal cancer cells. Our results suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection does influence various cancer cellular phenotypes and expression of molecular cancer markers and proinflammatory cytokines, albeit in a cell-type-specific manner. Our findings hint at the need for further studies and could have implications for evaluating the impact of other viruses on cancer progression.
Metabolic characteristics of ischaemic preconditioning induced performance improvement in Taekwondo athletes using LC‒MS/MS-based plasma metabolomics
Authors: Ou Ziyue , Yang Liang , Wu Jingyun , Xu Mingxin , Weng Xiquan , Xu Guoqin
Published: October 2024

In recent years, ischemic preconditioning (IPC) has garnered significant attention in sports research. While IPC has demonstrated positive effects in high-intensity sports such as judo and swimming, its potential benefits for enhancing the performance of Taekwondo athletes have not been extensively studied. This study aimed to investigate the effects of IPC on taekwondo performance and to observe the metabolic characteristics associated with enhancing sports performance via LC‒MS/MS-based plasma metabolomics. Seventeen participants underwent the repeated frequency speed of kick test (FSKT) after IPC, along with pre- and post-exercise plasma metabolite analysis. Differential abundance metabolite analysis, enriched pathway analysis, and weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGNCA) were employed to delve into metabolic characteristics. The findings highlighted a significant enhancement in FSKT performance in the experimental group. Metabolomic analysis revealed 109 differentially abundant metabolites, including Dl-lactate, hypoxanthine, acetylcarnitine, and acetylsalicylic acid. Enriched pathway analysis revealed pathways such as pentose and glucuronic acid interconversion, ascorbic acid and aldonic acid metabolism, the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and the Warburg effect. In conclusion, IPC can significantly increase the specific athletic abilities of Taekwondo athletes, with enhancements linked to anaerobic metabolism, PPP utilization, the Warburg effect for energy production, redox system stability, reduced muscle fatigue, and pain alleviation.
Monitoring pilot trainees’ cognitive control under a simulator-based training process with EEG microstate analysis
Authors: Zhao Mengting , Jia Wenjun , Jennings Sion , Law Andrew , Bourgon Alain , Su Chang , Larose Marie-Hélène , Grenier Hugh , Bowness David , Zeng Yong
Published: October 2024

The objective of pilot training is to equip trainees with the knowledge, judgment, and skills to maintain control of an aircraft and respond to critical flight tasks. The present research aims to investigate changes in trainees’ cognitive control levels during a pilot training process while they underwent basic flight maneuvers. EEG microstate analysis was applied together with spectral power features to quantitatively monitor trainees’ cognitive control under varied flight tasks during different training sessions on a flight simulator. Not only could EEG data provide an objective measure of cognitive control to complement the current subjective assessments, but the application of EEG microstate analysis is particularly well-suited for capturing rapid dynamic changes in cognitive states that may happen under complex human activities in conducting flight maneuvers. Comparisons were conducted between two types of tasks and across different training stages to monitor how pilot trainees’ cognitive control responds to varied flight task types and training stages. The present research provides insights into the changes in trainees’ cognitive control during a pilot training process and highlights the potential of EEG microstate analysis for monitoring cognitive control.
An in-depth investigation of lead-free KGeCl3 perovskite solar cells employing optoelectronic, thermomechanical, and photovoltaic properties: DFT and SCAPS-1D frameworks
Authors: Tarekuzzaman Md. , Ishraq Mohammad Hasin , Parves Md. Shahazan , Rayhan M. A. , Ahmad Sohail , Rasheduzzaman Md. , Al Mamun K A , Hossen M. Moazzam , Hasan Md. Zahid
Published: October 2024

Crystal structure of KGeCl3 and the design configuration of the KGeCl3-based PSC.
Postliminary treatment of food-waste digestate via combined hydrothermal carbonization and microbial fuel cell for bio-energy recovery: a comparative life cycle impact assessment
Authors: Yadav Shraddha , Doki Manikanta M. , Ghangrekar Makarand M. , Dubey Brajesh K.
Published: October 2024

Multiple resource recovery from food-waste digestate by deploying hydrothermal carbonisation and microbial fuel cells. A green route for environmental sustainability and economic gains.
Multifunctional polyaniline nanofiber conductive hydrogel for supercapacitors and flexible sensors
Authors: Fan Xingwen , Tao Yulun , Liu Fuchen , Li Shuo , Liu Mingao
Published: October 2024

A multifunctional polyaniline nanofibre conductive hydrogel with supercapacitive, photosensitive, and strain-sensing properties.
Oxidative generation of isobenzofurans from phthalans: application to the formal synthesis of (±)-morphine
Authors: Kage Mirai , Yamakoshi Hiroyuki , Tabata Manami , Ohashi Eisaku , Noguchi Kimihiro , Watanabe Takeshi , Uchida Manato , Takada Minetatsu , Ikeuchi Kazutada , Nakamura Seiichi
Published: October 2024

An oxidative method for generation of isobenzofurans from phthalans, which enables the formal synthesis of morphine, has been developed.
Garbage prediction using regression analysis for municipal corporations of Indian cities
Authors: Sharma Raj Kumar , Jailia Manisha
Published: October 2024

Garbage management is exceptionally critical and poses enormous environmental challenges. It has always been a vital issue in municipal corporations. However, municipal agencies have developed and used garbage management systems. Garbage forecasting still plays a crucial role in the management system and helps improve or create a garbage management system. This research examines the information from 212 cities to suggest a helpful regression model for garbage forecasting and control. To establish a connection between the variables, the descriptive study employs statistical techniques to learn about the composition of data collected from municipal corporations and conduct correlation analysis. Population and garbage depend highly on one another, as evidenced by their correlation coefficient of 0.922,144. The primary research is used to build an alternate hypothesis that shows the chosen variables are highly dependent on one another. The dataset is scaled and divided into a training and testing 80:20 ratio during the pre‐processing data phase. This research aims to do a regression analysis with daily garbage production, urban area, and population as independent variables. This research initiates a variety of regression models, including multiple linear regression (MLR), artificial neural network (ANN), decision tree regression (DTR), and random forest regression (RFR). The MLR model's R2 value of 0.85 indicates that it has the potential to accurately forecast daily garbage production based on just two independent variables and a single dependent variable. Random Forest Regression (RFR) with (MSE: 100,078.749 & MAE: 182.212) shows that it has the lowest MSE among all the models, which provides the most accurate predictions on average and the fit values of 8.85 and 316.23 obtained from the error distribution with a bin value 25. The estimated results from each model are compared to the test data values on line graphs and Taylor plots. The mean square error and the mean absolute error in the analysis and the Taylor plot show that the RFR model is best suited for predicting daily garbage production in a city. This research, therefore, provides a Random Forest model that is optimal for such challenges and is recommended for this class of problem.
A single phase nine level common ground switched capacitor inverter with double boosting capability
Authors: Azad Md Adil , Sarwar Adil , Zaid Mohammad , Tariq Mohd , Bakhsh Farhad Ilahi , Ahmad Shafiq , Sayed Abdelaty Edrees , Islam Md Rasidul
Published: October 2024

This article suggests a nine‐level (9L) seven‐switch (7S) transformer‐less (TL) common‐ground (CG) switched capacitor (SC) inverter with double boosting capability. The proposed 9L7S‐CGSC‐TL inverter comprises only seven switches (7S), two diodes, three self‐balanced capacitors, and one DC source. The suggested inverter has a CG connection which eliminates ground leakage currents. Additionally, the suggested topology necessitates fewer conducting devices, thereby reducing conduction losses. The voltage across every capacitor is automatically balanced within each fundamental cycle. The proposed topology has been evaluated based on parameters such as component count, total harmonic distortion, cost, and efficiency. The proposed configuration switching sequence is governed by employing the level‐shifted pulse width modulation technique. A power loss study was conducted to determine the efficiency of the proposed switched capacitor multilevel inverter (SCMLI) under different load conditions in PLECS. The results shows that the proposed SCMLI achieves a peak efficiency of 98.17%. Further, the lifespan of the proposed SCMLI is assessed through a reliability assessment. The simulation and experimental results at different conditions are presented and elucidated.
Robust sliding mode control for the MMC‐HVDC transmission system with SCR uncertainty
Authors: Gharaghani Farzin , Asadi Mehdi
Published: October 2024

Modular multilevel green converter based high voltage direct current (MMC‐HVDC) transmission system has become a practical solution to interconnect renewable energy sources to main AC grids. Connecting the MMC to a weak AC system is still a challengeable problem. This paper proposes a sliding mode control‐based method for the MMC. By considering short circuit ratio parameter of the AC grid as uncertainty, a suitable mathematical model is developed. Also, relations among control parameters and their validity conditions are obtained. The proposed control scheme has faster dynamic responses to uncertainty and external disturbances compared to the conventional vector current control method with proportional–integral controller. At last, simulation results in the MATLAB/SIMULINK software environment are presented that the proposed control scheme is effective.
Disturbance‐rejection adjacent vector model predictive control strategy based on extended state observer for EV converter
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Cao Qiaosen , Liu Guangchen , Rivera Marco , Wheeler Patrick
Published: October 2024

Conventional single‐vector model predictive control (MPC) can suffer from low control accuracy, while multi‐vector MPC is often criticized for its complexity and heavy computational burden. In order to address these issues, an adjacent vector‐based MPC is investigated in this paper for an electric vehicle battery charging and discharging converter. The voltage vector selection table based on the principle of using adjacent vectors has been designed and this reduces the number of iterations and thus the computational burden. A threshold is used in the adjacent vector‐based MPC to coordinate the use of the single and multi‐vector MPCs considering a balance between the control accuracy and computational burden. In addition, to enhance the robustness of MPC to parameter changes, an extended state observer for active disturbance rejection control has been used to derive the predictive model, and an adjacent vector‐based MPC using extended state observer is studied. The method does not need accurate system parameters. Instead, it only requires the system input and output measurements to calculate the predicted current. The robustness of the controller against the parameter mismatch is enhanced compared to alternative approaches and the experimental results verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
Advancing quantum communication security: Metamaterial based quantum key distribution with enhanced protocols
Authors: Biswas Sujit , Goswami Rajat S. , Kumar Reddy K. Hemant , Mohanty Sachi Nandan , Ahmed Mohammed Altaf
Published: October 2024

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is increasingly pivotal in securing communication channels against the looming threats posed by quantum computing. However, existing QKD protocols encounter challenges related to efficiency and transmission capabilities. In response, this research investigates the integration of metamaterials into QKD systems, aiming to fortify security and enhance practicality. In the current landscape of quantum communication, where the vulnerability of classical encryption methods is magnified by rapid advancements in quantum computing, finding innovative solutions is imperative. This study is motivated by the need to strengthen the security and viability of QKD protocols to meet the demands of evolving cryptographic threats. By integrating metamaterials, the authors optimise quantum state control, improve signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and enable longer transmission distances. Through mathematical modelling and simulations, the authors demonstrate how metamaterials reduce errors and enhance the robustness of QKD systems. Our findings show significant improvements in transmission efficiency and security, making Metamaterial‐Based Quantum Key Distribution (MQKD) a promising approach for future quantum communication networks. The study not only advances the understanding of the theoretical foundations, but also presents simulated results illustrating the practical effectiveness of MQKD. The exploration of these innovative techniques contributes to the ongoing efforts to secure quantum communication channels.
Imputation based wind speed forecasting technique during abrupt changes in short term scenario
Authors: Sareen Karan , Panigrahi Bijaya Ketan , Shikhola Tushar , Tripathi Ravi Nath , Rajput Ashok Kumar
Published: October 2024

It is tough and complex to forecast wind speed due to its intermittent and stochastic nature as well as sudden and abrupt variations in the wind speed. Further, it is required to handle the variety of scenarios e.g. cyber‐attacks, unexpected power device malfunction, communication/sensor outages etc. that can cause the missing data.This paper proposes and employs a de‐noising autoencoder algorithm for wind speed forecasting to ensure the handling of missing data information. At the next step, the data is processed via variational mode decomposition technique to mitigate the noise and improves the model's prediction accuracy. Furthermore, the bi‐directional long‐short term memory deep learning approach is tied with convolution neural network to increase prediction accuracy and anticipating the sudden/abrupt changes in wind speed accurately. Finally, actual wind speed related data is examined to scrutinize meticulousness of projected forecast methodology particularly during sudden/abrupt changes in the wind speed. The parameter indicators of the wind speed forecasting technique exhibit the capability of improved predictions under the diversified conditions.
Improving maximum power point tracking efficiency in solar photovoltaic systems using super‐twisting algorithm and grey wolf optimizer
Authors: Deghfel Nassir , Badoud Abd Essalam , Al‐Ahmadi Ahmad Aziz , Bajaj Mohit , Zaitsev Ievgen , Ghoneim Sherif S. M.
Published: October 2024

This study presents a new Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) approach for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, combining the Super‐Twisting Algorithm (STA) and Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO). The STA‐GWO‐MPPT method improves efficiency in dynamic conditions by using STA for control and GWO for parameter optimization, enhancing stability and robustness. Performance evaluation is conducted through MATLAB/Simulink simulations and experimental validation on a small‐scale test bench. Various quantitative metrics, including rise time, settling time, power production, efficiency, root mean square error (RMSE), and standard deviation (STD), are employed for assessment. Results indicate significantly faster convergence speeds for the proposed method compared to conventional MPPT techniques. Specifically, the rise time for the proposed method is 0.0129 seconds, outperforming Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) (0.2638 seconds) and Grey Wolf Optimizer with Sliding Mode Control (GWO‐SMC) (0.0181 seconds). Additionally, the proposed method exhibits superior tracking efficiency, with an average efficiency of 99.33%, surpassing FLC (96.93%) and GWO‐SMC (99.19%). Moreover, it reduces power fluctuations, with an RMSE of 7.819% and STD of 6.547%, compared to FLC (RMSE: 13.471%, STD: 4.519%) and GWO‐SMC (RMSE: 8.507%, STD: 6.108%). Overall, this study contributes valuable insights into enhancing MPPT efficiency in solar PV systems, with implications for both research and practical applications.
Measurements and analysis of the radar cross section of chaff dipoles
Authors: Balleri Alessio , Butters Brian
Published: October 2024

A free space test method to measure the Radar Cross Section (RCS) of single dipole elements is presented. The method is such that dipoles can be measured over a large range of frequencies, in free space and without the need of an anechoic chamber. The setup employs with a Vector Network Analyser (VNA) synchronised to a rotating turntable that controls the position of the transmitting and receiving antennas and the polarisation of the irradiated electric field. Measurements are collected for chaff dipoles made of copper wire, microwire and aluminised glass, from 5 to 11 GHz, to allow a comparison of chaff RCS properties with respect to chaff material and method of fabrication. Measurements of the copper wire chaff also allowed a comparison with existing theoretical predictions of chaff reflectivity. An analysis and a comparison of the results is presented. Results show that the experimental trends of the chaff RCS curves agree with the theoretical RCS curves for perfectly conducting wires. They also show that copper wire provides the strongest reflective chaff followed by the aluminised glass and the microwire.
Elderly care and health monitoring using smart healthcare technology: An improved routing scheme for wireless body area networks
Authors: Hassan Muhammad , Kelsey Tom , Khan Bilal Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Hypertensive patients need regular checkups and constant monitoring for taking time critical decisions by the medical experts. Unfortunately, it is hard to maintain uninterrupted patient health surveillance due to limited medical staff resulting in an increasing mortality rate annually. Thanks to recent developments in wireless sensor networking, we can monitor constantly and efficiently diverse parameters of a network. Similarly, Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs) have become a well‐known sub‐branch of Wireless Sensor Networks. Such sensor networks can be leveraged for patient health monitoring, minimising the medical staff workload. Wireless Body Area Networks require tiny sensor nodes with limited battery power. Therefore, it is always desirable to design effective routing schemes that can enhance network lifetime, and reduce packet drop ratio. In this paper, we re‐simulate and explain in detail the results of a selected published journal article for WBANs and provide some modifications to improve the network's overall performance. Based on these amendments, the modified protocol successfully extends the operational time of the network than the original. Our performance evaluation parameters are dead nodes, throughput, residual energy, and path loss versus the number of rounds. These analyses support effective solutions that improve network performance and data delivery ratio.