bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symposium 15: Impact of Environmental Contaminants on Child Neurodevelopment
Authors: Till Christine
Published: December 2023

Summary Abstract:

Children are exposed to toxic chemicals throughout development and the long-term consequences of this exposure can be profound. Despite decades of research documenting the vulnerability of the developing brain to environmental contaminants, there has been little progress in protecting against developmental neurotoxicity. This symposium will discuss recent research in developmental neurotoxicology using a "developmental origins of health and disease" (DOHaD) framework that examines the context in which environmental contaminants exert their effects. We will examine the timescale for developmental toxicity, windows of vulnerability, and the bases of individual differences in vulnerability, including sex-specific effects of chemical exposures. This symposium will feature new pregnancy and birth cohort studies that have implicated fluoride as a developmental neurotoxin and endocrine disruptor. In addition, we will discuss emerging issues in epidemiology, including how environmental contaminants may interact with non-chemical stressors and have lifelong impacts on cognition and behaviours. This symposium will be capped with a discussion of the public's knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to developmental toxicity and strategies to reduce exposure. All speakers will be asked to draw conclusions on research priorities, and discuss how to balance regulators' need for "ideal evidence" with a public health strategy that aims to protect the public from critical environmental hazards. The symposium will consist of the following five presentations, each 12 minutes in length, followed by a 15 minute discussion.

1. John Krzeckowski, PhD, York University, Toronto, Canada.

TITLE: Applying a Dimensional Framework to the Study of Developmental Neurotoxicity

2. Carly Goodman, PhD candidate, York University, Toronto, Canada

TITLE: Sex difference of Developmental Neurotoxicants on Intellectual abilities: A systematic review and meta-analysis

3. Meaghan Hall, PhD candidate, York University, Toronto, Canada.

TITLE: Fluoride Exposure and Hypothyroidism in Pregnant Women: A Potential Mechanism of Fluoride Neurotoxicity

4. Ashley Malin, PhD, University of Florida,

Florida, USA.

TITLE: Urinary Fluoride Levels and Metal Co-Exposures among Pregnant Women in Los Angeles, California

5. Rivka Green, PhD, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.

TITLE: Translating developmental neurotoxicity for the public: A large, multi-country, randomized-control trial investigating children's environmental health literacy
26 Improvement in Executive Function Following Goal-Oriented Attentional Self-Regulation Training in Veterans with mTBI
Authors: Santiago Rachel , Raptentsetsang Sky , Maruyama Brian A , Hwang Anna , Cassar Marissa , Abrams Gary , Mukherjee Pratik , Novakovic-Agopian Tatjana
Published: December 2023

Objective:

Goal-Oriented Attentional Self-Regulation (GOALS) is a cognitive rehabilitation training that targets difficulties with executive control functions. Prior research has found that GOALS training improves executive function, functional outcomes, and PTSD symptoms in Veterans with comorbid PTSD and TBI. The objective of this study is to assess the effects of GOALS training versus an active time-matched Behavioral Health Education (BHE) intervention in military Veterans with history of mTBI and executive function difficulties.

Participants and Methods:

Thirty-four veterans with a history of mild TBI (>6 months post-injury) and cognitive difficulties were randomized to GOALS or BHE group intervention. GOALS is a cognitive rehabilitation intervention that incorporates mindfulness-based attention regulation training, and goal management strategies applied to participant-defined goals. It consists of ten 2-hour sessions administered in small group format, and three individual 1-hour sessions. The BHE group is a matched control condition that mirrors GOALS in terms of duration and level of involvement. Participants completed a comprehensive evaluation consisting of neuropsychological and ecologically valid functional performance measures of complex attention and executive function, before and after GOALS or BHE intervention. Overall neuropsychological attention/executive functioning included measures of working memory (Letter Number Sequencing, Auditory Consonant Trigrams), mental flexibility (Design & Verbal Fluency Switching, Trails B, Stroop Inhibition/Switching), inhibition (Stroop Inhibition), and sustained attention (Digit Vigilance). The Goal Processing Scale (GPS) was used to measure ecologically valid complex functional performance.

Results:

Post GOALS training, but not post BHE, participants significantly improved on measures of attention /executive function including overall performance (p=.02), working memory (p=.04), sustained attention (p=.03)., and inhibition (p=.01). On measures of complex functional task performance, post GOALS participants significantly improved in the domain of planning (p=.02).

Conclusions:

GOALS training improved performance on neuropsychological and ecologically valid functional measures of complex attention and executive function in Veterans with mild TBI and cognitive difficulties. The current study highlights how mindfulness-based attention regulation and goalmanagement strategies applied to personal goals has positive effects across various outcomes. A percentage of individuals with mTBI continue to report persistent problems with cognition and daily functioning. Cognitive rehabilitation training such as GOALS may be beneficial for those with persistent difficulties following mTBI, even in chronic phase.
Succession of the bacterial community from a spacecraft assembly clean room when enriched in brines relevant to Mars
Authors: Carte Meris E. , Chen Fei , Clark Benton C. , Schneegurt Mark A.
Published: December 2023

Interplanetary spacecraft are built in a spacecraft assembly facility (SAF), a clean room designed to reduce microbial contamination that could confound life detection missions or influence native ecosystems. The frigid hyperarid near-surface environment of Mars has ample hygroscopic Mg and Na salts of chloride, (per)chlorate and sulphate that may deliquesce to form dense brines, liquids with low water activity, and freezing points <0°C. The current study sought to define the climax microbial community after 6 mo of enrichment of SAF floor wipe samples in salt plains medium supplemented with 50% (w/v; ~2 M;aw= 0.94) MgSO4or 20% (w/v; ~1.9 M;aw= 0.91) NaClO3. After 1 wk, 4 wk and 6 mo of incubation, metagenomic DNA extracts of the enriched SAF microbial community were used for high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA genes and subsequent phylogenetic analyses. Additionally, dozens of bacterial strains were isolated by repetitive streak-plating from the climax community after 6 mo of enrichment. Early in the enrichment, staphylococci greatly dominated and then remained abundant members of the community. However, actinobacteria succeeded the staphylococci as the dominant taxa as the cultures matured, includingArthrobacter,BrachybacteriumandBrevibacterium. A diverse assemblage of bacilli was present, withOceanobacillusbeing especially abundant. The SAF culture collection included representatives ofBrachybacterium conglomeratum, Brevibacterium sediminis, Oceanobacillus picturaeandStaphylococcus sciuri. These were characterized with biochemical and physiological tests, revealing their high salinotolerance. Shannon diversity indices were generally near 2, reflecting modest diversity at several levels of identity and the community structures were uneven throughout. However, minor members of the community seem capable of the ecosystem functions required for biogeochemical cycling. For instance, organisms capable of all the functions of the N cycle were detected. The microbial assemblage in SAFs is the most likely to be transported by spacecraft to another world. While individual microbial populations may exhibit the qualities needed for survival at the near-surface of Mars, certainly entire communities with the capacity for complete biogeochemical cycling, would have a greater chance of survival and proliferation.
British-Bangladeshi Muslim men: removing barriers to mental health support and effectively supporting our community
Authors: Alam Shah
Published: December 2023

In England, Bangladeshi men are amongst the lowest number of people referred to primary care NHS Talking Therapies services and amongst the most likely to have deteriorated (NHS Digital, 2020). Factors related to culture, religion and gender influence stigma and help-seeking (Robinson et al., 2011). Furthermore, a lack of knowledge from services and professionals on cultural understandings of mental distress facilitate a failure to fully understand the needs of individual populations (Faheem, 2023). The aim of this research study was to qualitatively explore stigma and help-seeking for mental health difficulties, within British-Bangladeshi Muslim men in London. Recruitment consisted of men aged 22–59 years, experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression but not accessing formal support. Ethical approval was obtained from Royal Holloway, University of London. After an online screening questionnaire, individual semi-structured video interviews were completed between May and October 2020. Reflexive thematic analysis presented six over-arching themes: ‘different understanding of mental health’, ‘traditional cultural expectations’, ‘fear and loss’, ‘coping resources’, ‘barriers to access’ and ‘community outreach and collaboration’. Many factors were highlighted as barriers accessing support, such as stigma and trust in services. Key practice implications are highlighted for services and practitioners. Professionals must understand the factors which impact the wellbeing of Bangladeshi men, how to better meet the needs of the community, and remove barriers to help. Participants also suggested initiatives to raise mental health awareness and reduce stigma, as an inclusive approach is needed with greater listening to communities and partnerships with local authorities.

Key learning aims

(1)

To better understand the needs of the population and factors which impact wellbeing.

(2)

To consider the muti-faceted barriers to access mental health support, such as CBT, and how to address these.

(3)

To unpack what stigma means (internally and externally) for men in the population.

(4)

How to support low- and high-intensity CBT practitioners to better work therapeutically to support Bangladeshi men.
Postemergence-directed applications of pendimethalin for control of early-season weeds in chile pepper
Authors: Bajagain Akash , Lehnhoff Erik A. , Steiner Robert , Creamer Rebecca , Schutte Brian J.
Published: December 2023

In New Mexico chile pepper production, pendimethalin is traditionally applied shortly after crop thinning, which is 9 to 10 wk after crop seeding. Pendimethalin applications before crop thinning may be a method for controlling early-season weeds in chile pepper; however, chile pepper tolerance to early-season applications of pendimethalin is poorly understood. We conducted a greenhouse study to evaluate young chile pepper responses to pendimethalin. We also conducted a field study to determine weed and chile pepper responses to early-season, postemergence-directed pendimethalin in combination with herbicides registered for preemergence applications. The greenhouse study included three treatments administered when chile pepper was at the four-leaf stage: (i) pendimethalin applied to foliage and soil, (ii) pendimethalin applied to soil only, and (iii) a nontreated control. The field study included four treatments: (i) preemergence applications of napropamide followed by postemergence-directed pendimethalin at 5 wk after crop seeding, (ii) preemergence applications of clomazone followed by postemergence-directed pendimethalin at 5 wk after crop seeding, (iii) postemergence-directed pendimethalin without preemergence herbicides, and (iv) nontreated, weed-free control. We conducted the field study at two sites that differed in soil texture. Pendimethalin application rates were maximum labeled rates for the specific soil. Results from the greenhouse study indicated that pendimethalin applied to foliage and soil stunted two of five cultivars, whereas pendimethalin applied to soil did not affect chile pepper height, fresh weight, dry weight, or root area. Results from the field study indicated that postemergence-directed pendimethalin did not affect chile pepper height or fruit yield, or cause visible symptoms of herbicide injury. Postemergence-directed pendimethalin reduced the densities of weeds, including junglerice. The results of this study indicate that postemergence-directed applications of pendimethalin at 5 wk after crop seeding do not cause crop injury or yield loss in chile pepper, while providing some weed control benefits.
Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) control affected by weed size and herbicide spray solution with nozzle type pairings
Authors: Kouame Koffi Badou-Jeremie , Butts Thomas R. , Norsworthy Jason K. , Davis Jason , Piveta Leonard B.
Published: December 2023

Palmer amaranth can grow 4.2 mm in height per degree day; hence, delays of a few days in weed control deployment can result in applications of herbicides to weeds that are larger than those for which the herbicide label recommends. Therefore, it is critically necessary to understand the effect of plant size at the time of herbicide application in conjunction with herbicide spray solution and nozzle type pairings on the effectiveness of weed management programs in the Enlist E3 and XtendFlex production systems. Field experiments were conducted in 2020, in no-crop conditions, at two locations in Arkansas, to evaluate the influence of Palmer amaranth size on its control with glufosinate, dicamba, and 2,4-D applied alone and in mixture with specific nozzle pairings as mandated by label requirements. Also, a laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate the droplet size and velocity of the spray solutions and nozzles used in the field experiments. A 5- and 10-percentage point reduction in control was observed when dicamba (66%) and 2,4-D (63%) were applied alone, respectively, compared with those herbicides mixed with glufosinate (71% and 73%, respectively). Palmer amaranth density increased to 55, 73, 100, 115, and 140 plants m−2 when plants were sprayed at heights of 15, 25, 41, 61, and 76 cm, respectively, compared with plants that were sprayed when they were 5 cm tall (9 plants m−2). Nozzle type did not affect weed control or density. The percentage of driftable fines increased when a mixture of glufosinate and 2,4-D were used compared with 2,4-D alone. Effective short-term and long-term chemical control of Palmer amaranth will require growers to correctly time their weed management practices and overlay residuals, and expect the need for sequential applications.
Identifying Regime Transitions for Water Governance in the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Song Shuang , Wang Shuai , Wu Xutong , Wei Yongping , Cumming Graeme S. , Qin Yue , Wu Xilin , Fu Bojie
Published: December 2023

Water governance determines “who gets water, when, and how” in most large river basins. Shifts in water governance regimes from natural to social‐ecological or “hydrosocial” carry profound implications for human wellbeing; identifying regime changes in water governance is critical to navigating social‐ecological transitions and guiding sustainability. We characterized water governance along with the three main aspects—stress, purpose, and allocation—to develop a quantitative integrated water governance index (IWGI) at a basin scale. Applying the IWGI to the rapidly changing Yellow River Basin (YRB) in China clarifies shifts in water governance between massive supply, transformation governance, and adaptation‐oriented regimes. In the YRB, the underlying causes of regime shifts were increasing water supply and demand before the governance transformation and re‐allocation and regulation after the change. The IWGI offers a comprehensive and straightforward approach to linking water governance regimes to sustainability, providing valuable insights into hydrosocial transitions.
The Complexity of Clouds, Circulation, and Climate
Authors: Sullivan Sylvia , Hoose Corinna
Published: December 2023

A new book explores the significant influence of clouds on climate via radiation, circulation, and precipitation.
Neutral Tropical African CO2 Exchange Estimated From Aircraft and Satellite Observations
Authors: Gaubert Benjamin , Stephens Britton B. , Baker David F. , Basu Sourish , Bertolacci Michael , Bowman Kevin W. , Buchholz Rebecca , Chatterjee Abhishek , Chevallier Frédéric , Commane Róisín , Cressie Noel , Deng Feng , Jacobs Nicole , Johnson Matthew S. , Maksyutov Shamil S. , McKain Kathryn , Liu Junjie , Liu Zhiqiang , Morgan Eric , O’Dell Chris , Philip Sajeev , Ray Eric , Schimel David , Schuh Andrew , Taylor Thomas E. , Weir Brad , van Wees Dave , Wofsy Steven C. , Zammit‐Mangion Andrew , Zeng Ning
Published: December 2023

Tropical lands play an important role in the global carbon cycle yet their contribution remains uncertain owing to sparse observations. Satellite observations of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) have greatly increased spatial coverage over tropical regions, providing the potential for improved estimates of terrestrial fluxes. Despite this advancement, the spread among satellite‐based and in‐situ atmospheric CO2 flux inversions over northern tropical Africa (NTA), spanning 0–24°N, remains large. Satellite‐based estimates of an annual source of 0.8–1.45 PgC yr−1 challenge our understanding of tropical and global carbon cycling. Here, we compare posterior mole fractions from the suite of inversions participating in the Orbiting Carbon Observatory 2 (OCO‐2) Version 10 Model Intercomparison Project (v10 MIP) with independent in‐situ airborne observations made over the tropical Atlantic Ocean by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Atmospheric Tomography (ATom) mission during four seasons. We develop emergent constraints on tropical African CO2 fluxes using flux‐concentration relationships defined by the model suite. We find an annual flux of 0.14 ± 0.39 PgC yr−1 (mean and standard deviation) for NTA, 2016–2018. The satellite‐based flux bias suggests a potential positive concentration bias in OCO‐2 B10 and earlier version retrievals over land in NTA during the dry season. Nevertheless, the OCO‐2 observations provide improved flux estimates relative to the in situ observing network at other times of year, indicating stronger uptake in NTA during the wet season than the in‐situ inversion estimates.
Fast Earthward Convection in the Magnetotail and Nonzero IMF By: MMS Statistics
Authors: Pitkänen T. , Chong G. S. , Hamrin M. , Kullen A. , Vanhamäki H. , Park J.‐S. , Nowada M. , Schillings A. , Krämer E.
Published: December 2023

We statistically investigate convective earthward fast flows using data measured by the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission in the tail plasma sheet during 2017–2021. We focus on “frozen in” fast flows and investigate the importance of different electric field components in the Sun‐Earth (V⊥x) and dusk‐dawn (V⊥y) velocity components perpendicular to the magnetic field. We find that a majority of the fast flow events (52% of 429) have the north‐south electric field component (Ez) as the most relevant or dominating component whereas 26% are so‐called conventional type fast flows with Ey and Ex as the relevant components. The rest of the flow events, 22%, fall into the two ’mixed’ categories, of which almost all these fast flows, 20% of 429, have Ey and Ez important for V⊥x and V⊥y, respectively. There is no Y‐location preference for any type of the fast flows. The conventional fast flows are detected rather close to the neutral sheet whereas the other types can be measured farther away. Typical total speeds are highest in the mixed category. Typical perpendicular speeds are comparably high in the conventional and mixed categories. The slowest fast flows are measured in the Ez category. Most of the fast flow events are measured in the substorm recovery phase. Prevailing interplanetary magnetic field By conditions influence the V⊥y direction and the influence is most efficient for the Ez‐dominated fast flows.
Spectral Analysis of Mare Ingenii Basin (Lunar Farside)
Authors: Salari Giulia , Tognon Gloria , Zambon Francesca , Carli Cristian , Tosi Federico , Giacomini Lorenza , Combe Jean‐Philippe , Pozzobon Riccardo , Fonte Sergio , Massironi Matteo , Rinaldi Giovanna
Published: December 2023

Mare Ingenii is a site of great interest for lunar geology as it is one of the few basaltic plains on the farside of the Moon. It is located within the outer edge of the South Pole‐Aitken basin, the largest and oldest impact basin in our Solar System. Mare Ingenii includes two large craters, Thomson and Thomson M, and a prominent swirl, a high‐albedo sinuous feature whose origin is still debated. We conducted spectral analysis on 28 selected regions of interest within Mare Ingenii, with the aim of inferring its mineralogy. We considered reflectance data acquired in the visible to near‐infrared spectral range by the Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) imaging spectrometer onboard the Chandrayaan‐1 mission, to derive a set of spectral parameters. Our results show wide compositional variability, with the dark material of the mare basaltic floor showing the centers of the Fe2+ absorption bands of the pyroxenes shifted toward long wavelengths (0.96–0.99 and 2.03–2.12 μm, respectively), consistent with the spectral characteristics of high‐Ca pyroxenes (as well as swirl material and intermediate albedo regions). In contrast, the bright material of the small surrounding craters shows Fe2+ absorption bands shifted toward short wavelengths (0.91–0.94 and 1.91–2.04 μm, respectively), more consistent with low‐Ca or Ca‐free pyroxenes. The obtained results suggest a mafic signature throughout the surface of Mare Ingenii, probably representative of the composition of the lower lunar crust.
Evolution of Oceanography of the Central Northwest Pacific Over the Past 10 Million Years With Focus on Late Miocene Global Cooling
Authors: Matsuzaki Kenji M.
Published: December 2023

Since the middle Miocene climatic transition, the Earth's climate has steadily cooled. The late Miocene global cooling (LMGC) and the Northern Hemisphere Glaciation (NHG) were two key cooling events occurring during this time. To better understand the mechanisms underlying these cooling events, changes in radiolarian microfossil assemblages were examined in this study, aiming at the reconstructing of oceanographic changes that have occurred at Ocean Drilling Program site 1208 during the last 10 million years. Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) were reconstructed based on radiolarian species that were extant 0–10 million years ago. Reconstructed SSTs were then compared with previously published alkenone‐based SSTs at site 1208, and it was found that overall, using SSTs based only on extant radiolarian species yielded a correct record for the last 10 million years. However, large discrepancies were observed between radiolarian‐ and alkenone‐based SSTs during LMGC and the NHG. These discrepancies were attributed to the sustained influence of subsurface water (at depths from ∼50 to 100 m) on assemblages of radiolarians during extreme cooling events. Relative abundances of other radiolarian groups indicated that during LMGC, there was a reorganization of the regional oceanography that probably weakened the Pacific meridional overturning circulation, increased the meridional temperature gradient, and caused a southward migration of the subtropical front. Probably, the North Pacific intermediate water expanded southeastward during NHG.
Local exposure misclassification in national models: relationships with urban infrastructure and demographics
Authors: Chambliss Sarah E. , Campmier Mark Joseph , Audirac Michelle , Apte Joshua S. , Zigler Corwin M.
Published: December 2023

Background

National-scale linear regression-based modeling may mischaracterize localized patterns, including hyperlocal peaks and neighborhood- to regional-scale gradients. For studies focused on within-city differences, this mischaracterization poses a risk of exposure misclassification, affecting epidemiological and environmental justice conclusions.

Objective

Characterize the difference between intraurban pollution patterns predicted by national-scale land use regression modeling and observation-based estimates within a localized domain and examine the relationship between that difference and urban infrastructure and demographics.

Methods

We compare highly resolved (0.01 km2) observations of NO2 mixing ratio and ultrafine particle (UFP) count obtained via mobile monitoring with national model predictions in thirteen neighborhoods in the San Francisco Bay Area. Grid cell-level divergence between modeled and observed concentrations is termed “localized difference.” We use a flexible machine learning modeling technique, Bayesian Additive Regression Trees, to investigate potentially nonlinear relationships between discrepancy between localized difference and known local emission sources as well as census block group racial/ethnic composition.

Results

We find that observed local pollution extremes are not represented by land use regression predictions and that observed UFP count significantly exceeds regression predictions. Machine learning models show significant nonlinear relationships among localized differences between predictions and observations and the density of several types of pollution-related infrastructure (roadways, commercial and industrial operations). In addition, localized difference was greater in areas with higher population density and a lower share of white non-Hispanic residents, indicating that exposure misclassification by national models differs among subpopulations.

Impact

Comparing national-scale pollution predictions with hyperlocal observations in the San Francisco Bay Area, we find greater discrepancies near major roadways and food service locations and systematic underestimation of concentrations in neighborhoods with a lower share of non-Hispanic white residents. These findings carry implications for using national-scale models in intraurban epidemiological and environmental justice applications and establish the potential utility of supplementing large-scale estimates with publicly available urban infrastructure and pollution source information.
Interplay between hippocampal TACR3 and systemic testosterone in regulating anxiety-associated synaptic plasticity
Authors: Wojtas Magdalena Natalia , Diaz-González Marta , Stavtseva Nadezhda , Shoam Yuval , Verma Poonam , Buberman Assaf , Izhak Inbar , Geva Aria , Basch Roi , Ouro Alberto , Perez-Benitez Lucia , Levy Uri , Borcel Erika , Nuñez Ángel , Venero Cesar , Rotem-Dai Noa , Veksler-Lublinsky Isana , Knafo Shira
Published: December 2023

Tachykinin receptor 3 (TACR3) is a member of the tachykinin receptor family and falls within the rhodopsin subfamily. As a G protein-coupled receptor, it responds to neurokinin B (NKB), its high-affinity ligand. Dysfunctional TACR3 has been associated with pubertal failure and anxiety, yet the mechanisms underlying this remain unclear. Hence, we have investigated the relationship between TACR3 expression, anxiety, sex hormones, and synaptic plasticity in a rat model, which indicated that severe anxiety is linked to dampened TACR3 expression in the ventral hippocampus. TACR3 expression in female rats fluctuates during the estrous cycle, reflecting sensitivity to sex hormones. Indeed, in males, sexual development is associated with a substantial increase in hippocampal TACR3 expression, coinciding with elevated serum testosterone and a significant reduction in anxiety. TACR3 is predominantly expressed in the cell membrane, including the presynaptic compartment, and its modulation significantly influences synaptic activity. Inhibition of TACR3 activity provokes hyperactivation of CaMKII and enhanced AMPA receptor phosphorylation, associated with an increase in spine density. Using a multielectrode array, stronger cross-correlation of firing was evident among neurons following TACR3 inhibition, indicating enhanced connectivity. Deficient TACR3 activity in rats led to lower serum testosterone levels, as well as increased spine density and impaired long-term potentiation (LTP) in the dentate gyrus. Remarkably, aberrant expression of functional TACR3 in spines results in spine shrinkage and pruning, while expression of defective TACR3 increases spine density, size, and the magnitude of cross-correlation. The firing pattern in response to LTP induction was inadequate in neurons expressing defective TACR3, which could be rectified by treatment with testosterone. In conclusion, our study provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay between TACR3, sex hormones, anxiety, and synaptic plasticity. These findings highlight potential targets for therapeutic interventions to alleviate anxiety in individuals with TACR3 dysfunction and the implications of TACR3 in anxiety-related neural changes provide an avenue for future research in the field.
Networks of cortical activity show graded responses to perinatal asphyxia
Authors: Syvälahti Timo , Tuiskula Anna , Nevalainen Päivi , Metsäranta Marjo , Haataja Leena , Vanhatalo Sampsa , Tokariev Anton
Published: December 2023

Background

Perinatal asphyxia often leads to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) with a high risk of neurodevelopmental consequences. While moderate and severe HIE link to high morbidity, less is known about brain effects of perinatal asphyxia with no or only mild HIE. Here, we test the hypothesis that cortical activity networks in the newborn infants show a dose-response to asphyxia.

Methods

We performed EEG recordings for infants with perinatal asphyxia/HIE of varying severity (n = 52) and controls (n = 53) and examined well-established computational metrics of cortical network activity.

Results

We found graded alterations in cortical activity networks according to severity of asphyxia/HIE. Furthermore, our findings correlated with early clinical recovery measured by the time to attain full oral feeding.

Conclusion

We show that both local and large-scale correlated cortical activity are affected by increasing severity of HIE after perinatal asphyxia, suggesting that HIE and perinatal asphyxia are better represented as a continuum rather than the currently used discreet categories. These findings imply that automated computational measures of cortical function may be useful in characterizing the dose effects of adversity in the neonatal brain; such metrics hold promise for benchmarking clinical trials via patient stratification or as early outcome measures.

Impact

Perinatal asphyxia causes every fourth neonatal death worldwide and provides a diagnostic and prognostic challenge for the clinician.

We report that infants with perinatal asphyxia show specific graded responses in cortical networks according to severity of asphyxia and ensuing hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy.

Early EEG recording and automated computational measures of brain function have potential to help in clinical evaluation of infants with perinatal asphyxia.
NCI10066: a Phase 1/2 study of olaparib in combination with ramucirumab in previously treated metastatic gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: Cecchini Michael , Cleary James M. , Shyr Yu , Chao Joseph , Uboha Nataliya , Cho May , Shields Anthony , Pant Shubham , Goff Laura , Spencer Kristen , Kim Edward , Stein Stacey , Kortmansky Jeremy S. , Canosa Sandra , Sklar Jeffrey , Swisher Elizabeth M. , Radke Marc , Ivy Percy , Boerner Scott , Durecki Diane E. , Hsu Chih-Yuan , LoRusso Patricia , Lacy Jill
Published: December 2023

Background

Our preclinical work revealed tumour hypoxia induces homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), increasing sensitivity to Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors. We aimed to induce tumour hypoxia with ramucirumab thereby sensitising tumours to olaparib.

Patients and methods

This multi-institution single-arm Phase 1/2 trial enrolled patients with metastatic gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma refractory to ≥1 systemic treatment. In dose escalation, olaparib was evaluated at escalating dose levels with ramucirumab 8 mg/kg day 1 in 14-day cycles. The primary endpoint of Phase 1 was the recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D), and in Phase 2 the primary endpoint was the overall response rate (ORR).

Results

Fifty-one patients received ramucirumab and olaparib. The RP2D was olaparib 300 mg twice daily with ramucirumab 8 mg/kg. In evaluable patients at the RP2D the ORR was 6/43 (14%) (95% CI 4.7–25.6). The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 2.8 months (95% CI 2.3–4.2) and median overall survival (OS) was 7.3 months (95% CI 5.7–13.0). Non-statistically significant improvements in PFS and OS were observed for patients with tumours with mutations in HRD genes.

Conclusions

Olaparib and ramucirumab is well-tolerated with efficacy that exceeds historical controls with ramucirumab single agent for gastric cancer in a heavily pre-treated patient population.
The impact of circulating protein levels identified by affinity proteomics on short-term, overall breast cancer risk
Authors: Grassmann Felix , Mälarstig Anders , Dahl Leo , Bendes Annika , Dale Matilda , Thomas Cecilia Engel , Gabrielsson Marike , Hedman Åsa K. , Eriksson Mikael , Margolin Sara , Huang Tzu-Hsuan , Ulfstedt Mikael , Forsberg Simon , Eriksson Per , Johansson Mattias , Hall Per , Schwenk Jochen M. , Czene Kamila
Published: December 2023

Objective

Current breast cancer risk prediction scores and algorithms can potentially be further improved by including molecular markers. To this end, we studied the association of circulating plasma proteins using Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) with incident breast cancer risk.

Subjects

In this study, we included 1577 women participating in the prospective KARMA mammographic screening cohort.

Results

In a targeted panel of 164 proteins, we found 8 candidates nominally significantly associated with short-term breast cancer risk (P < 0.05). Similarly, in an exploratory panel consisting of 2204 proteins, 115 were found nominally significantly associated (P < 0.05). However, none of the identified protein levels remained significant after adjustment for multiple testing. This lack of statistically significant findings was not due to limited power, but attributable to the small effect sizes observed even for nominally significant proteins. Similarly, adding plasma protein levels to established risk factors did not improve breast cancer risk prediction accuracy.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the levels of the studied plasma proteins captured by the PEA method are unlikely to offer additional benefits for risk prediction of short-term overall breast cancer risk but could provide interesting insights into the biological basis of breast cancer in the future.
An interpretable machine learning strategy for pursuing high piezoelectric coefficients in (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3-based ceramics
Authors: Ma Bowen , Wu Xiao , Zhao Chunlin , Lin Cong , Gao Min , Sa Baisheng , Sun Zhimei
Published: December 2023

Perovskite-type lead-free piezoelectric ceramics allow access to illustrious piezoelectric coefficients (d33) through intricate composition design and experimental modulation. Developing a swift and accurate technology for identifying (K, Na)NbO3 (KNN)-based ceramic compositions with high d33 in exceedingly large “compositional” space will establish an innovative research paradigm surpassing the traditional empirical trial-and-error method. Herein, we demonstrate an interpretable machine learning (ML) framework for quick evaluation of KNN-based ceramics with high d33 based on data from published literature. Specifically, a thorough feature construction was carried out from the global and local dimensions to establish tree regression models with d33 as the target property. Subsequently, the feature-property mapping rules of KNN-based piezoelectric ceramics are further optimized through feature screening. To intuitively understand the correlation mechanisms between ML regression targets and features, the sure independence screening and sparsifying operator (SISSO) method was employed to extract the essential descriptors to explain d33. A straightforward descriptor, $${\text{e}}^{({{NM}}_{\text{B}}-{{MV}}_{\text{B}})}\cdot {ST}/{(I{D}_{\text{A}})}^{2}$$

e

(

NM

B

−

MV

B

)

⋅
ST
/

(
I

D

A

)

2

, consisting of only four easily accessible parameters, can accelerate the evaluation of a series of novel KNN-based ceramics with high d33 while exhibiting strong theoretical interpretability. This work not only provides a tool for the rapid discovery of high piezoelectric performance in KNN-based ceramics but also offers a data-driven route for the design of property descriptors in perovskites.
Study on the mechanism and response law of fracture movement on the super-high position hard-thick strata
Authors: Zhang Guangchao , Zhou Guanglei , Wang Lei , Li You , Gu Yingshi , Qu Zhi , Zhao Xipo , Yin Maosheng , Wang Fangfang , Zhang Lingzhuo
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a thick plate structural mechanical model was established for the hard-thick rock strata in the Ordos region, which was characterized by the occurrence of high-energy strong earthquakes caused by the fracture of hard-thick rock strata. Subsequently, based on Vlasov's theory, the evolution process of hard-thick rock strata was analyzed. And the paper validated the analysis results using high-energy mine earthquake and surface subsidence data. The following conclusions were drawn: (1) The hard-thick strata in the cretaceous system will not be broken during the advancing and mining process of the test panel of the Shilawusu coal mine. (2) When the test panel is mined to a distance of two panel widths, no fracture occurred in the lower part of the hard-thick strata, because no separated space was formed. (3) When the test panel was advanced to about 856 m, the hard-thick strata have fractured in a vertical direction. (4) No high-energy mine earthquake event has occurred during mining at test panel, and the amount of surface subsidence is approximately 200 mm. (5) In the mining at test panel, two high-energy mining earthquakes occurred at 837 m, 1153 m away from the initial position of the panel, respectively, and the maximum amount of surface subsidence increased to 1397 mm, which accords with the results of the first and periodic breaks calculated by theory. The research results of this paper are of guiding significance for the study of the breaking law of hard-thick strata under similar engineering geological conditions and disaster pre-control.
Self-assembly of conformation-adaptive dihydrophenazine-based coordination cages
Authors: Wu Meng-Xiang , Hong Qiong-Yan , Li Minghui , Jiang Wei-Ling , Huang Bin , Lu Shuai , Wang Heng , Yang Hai-Bo , Zhao Xiao-Li , Shi Xueliang
Published: December 2023

This work investigates how dihydrophenazine ligands and their conformational changes affect the assembly of coordination cages. Self-assembly, in turn, can tune the conformation of dihydrophenazine units and their photophysical and redox properties.
Catalysts and electrolyzers for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction: from laboratory to industrial applications
Authors: Du Shiqian , Yang Pupu , Li Mengyu , Tao Li , Wang Shuangyin , Liu Zhao-Qing
Published: December 2023

To cope with the environmental pollution and energy shortage, reducing carbon dioxide molecules and producing fuels and chemicals via electrocatalytic methods, is one of the effective pathways to achieve carbon neutrality.
Novel molecular adducts of an anti-cancer drug vandetanib with enhanced solubility
Authors: Bandaru Ravi Kumar , Giri Lopamudra , Krishna Gamidi Rama , Dandela Rambabu
Published: December 2023

Successful attempt to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of Vandetanib - an anti-cancer drug, by crystal engineering approach.
Resolving a structural issue in cerium-nickel-based oxide: a single compound or a two-phase system?
Authors: Kojčinović Jelena , Tatar Dalibor , Šarić Stjepan , Bartus Pravda Cora , Mavrič Andraž , Arčon Iztok , Jagličić Zvonko , Mellin Maximilian , Einert Marcus , Altomare Angela , Caliandro Rocco , Kukovecz Ákos , Hofmann Jan Philipp , Djerdj Igor
Published: December 2023

Preparation of CeNiO3 in order to elucidate the actual crystal structure with the aim of establishing a structure–property relationship. Three different structural models were proposed accompanied by detailed structural analysis.
Well-defined Cu(i) complexes based on [N,P]-pyrrole ligands catalyzed a highly endoselective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition
Authors: Alvarado-Castillo Miguel A. , Cortés-Mendoza Salvador , Barquera-Lozada José E. , Delgado Francisco , Toscano Ruben A. , Ortega-Alfaro M. Carmen , López-Cortés José G.
Published: December 2023

We report the synthesis of a family of air-stable dinuclear Cu(i) complexes based on [N,P]-pyrrole ligands that exhibited high endo-diasteroselectivity in the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of azomethine ylides and electron-deficient alkenes.
Simultaneous generation of furfuryl alcohol, formate, and H2 by co-electrolysis of furfuryl and HCHO over bifunctional CuAg bimetallic electrocatalysts at ultra-low voltage
Authors: Zhao Liang , Lv Zheng , Shi Yue , Zhou Shuanglong , Liu Yan , Han Jiani , Zhang Qi , Lai Jianping , Wang Lei
Published: December 2023

Bifunctional CuAg bimetallic catalysts were coupled with furfuryl electrochemical hydrogenation and formaldehyde oxidation. First time, the electrolyzer enabled the simultaneous production of three valuable chemicals at a large current density.
Standalone cell culture microfluidic device-based microphysiological system for automated cell observation and application in nephrotoxicity tests
Authors: Kimura Hiroshi , Nakamura Hiroko , Goto Tomomi , Uchida Wakana , Uozumi Takayuki , Nishizawa Daniel , Shinha Kenta , Sakagami Junko , Doi Kotaro
Published: December 2023

The SCCMD for MPS experiments, which integrates microfluidic chips and their peripherals, complies with the ANSI/SLAS standards and has been seamlessly integrated into an existing automatic cell imaging system for online cell observation.
Effects of mechanical properties of carbon-based nanocomposites on scaffolds for tissue engineering applications: a comprehensive review
Authors: Eivazzadeh-Keihan Reza , Sadat Zahra , Lalebeigi Farnaz , Naderi Nooshin , Panahi Leila , Ganjali Fatemeh , Mahdian Sakineh , Saadatidizaji Zahra , Mahdavi Mohammad , Chidar Elham , Soleimani Erfan , Ghaee Azadeh , Maleki Ali , Zare Iman
Published: December 2023

Carbon-based nanocomposites are biodegradable and exhibit a low toxicity with mechanical properties due to carbon species. Mechanical properties, such as elasticity, tensile strength, elongation, and hardness are essential in tissue engineering.
Electron transfer between neptunium and sodium chlorite in acidic chloride media
Authors: Arko Brian T. , Dan David , Adelman Sara L. , Kimball David B. , Kozimor Stosh A. , Shafer Jenifer C.
Published: December 2023

Redox chemistry between Np4+(aq) and NaClO2(aq) can be controlled as a function of neptunium vs. NaClO2(aq), Cl1−(aq), and H1+(aq) concentrations. Certain chemical environments held Np4+(aq) in the +4 oxidation state. Other chemical environments generated NpO21+(aq) and/or NpO22+(aq).
Porous MnO nanoplate–graphene hybrid as a high-capacity anode material for lithium ion batteries and its safety characteristics
Authors: Song Xiang-Ning , Ma Qian , Yuan Yuan , Wan Ke-Feng , Zhang Hong-Zhe , Huang Lang
Published: December 2023

Robust reduced graphene oxide (rGO) protected porous MnO nanoplates were constructed to relieve the pulverization and gradual aggregation during the conversion process.
Crystal structure, infrared spectroscopy and thermodynamic properties of a manganese member of the ellenbergerite family
Authors: Shvanskaya Larisa V. , Krikunova Polina V. , Vasilchikova Tatyana M. , Borovikova Elena Y. , Volkova Olga S. , Vasiliev Alexander N.
Published: December 2023

We report on the structural features of Mn6.75[H1.20(VO4)]4-2z(V2O7)z (z = 0.15), which clarified the mechanism of negative charge compensation of the framework. The compound undergoes phase transition at TN = 42.5 K into canted AF state.
Unveiling Amaryllidaceae alkaloids: from biosynthesis to antiviral potential – a review
Authors: Jayawardena Thilina U. , Merindol Natacha , Liyanage Nuwan Sameera , Desgagné-Penix Isabel
Published: December 2023

Amaryllidaceae alkaloids (AAs) are a unique class of specialized metabolites containing heterocyclic nitrogen bridging that play a distinct role in higher plants.
Dithiocarbamate mediated thioamidation via C–C single bond cleavage of styrene: study of the protocol in decarbonylative and decarboxylative thioamidations
Authors: Patra Debabrata , Saha Amit
Published: December 2023

Styrene undergoes transition-metal-free dealkenylative thioamidations by dithiocarbamate anions under aerial conditions. Decarbonylative and decarboxylative thioamidations have also been tested on benzaldehyde, toluene and benzoic acid.
Responsive CO2 capture: predictive multi-objective optimisation for managing intermittent flue gas and renewable energy supply
Authors: Fisher Oliver J. , Xing Lei , Tian Xingjian , Tai Xin Yee , Xuan Jin
Published: December 2023

A predictive control framework is developed to maximise enhanced weathering reactor CO2 capture rate, whilst simultaneously minimising non-renewable energy consumption.
Rapid test for platelet viability relying on a quartz crystal microbalance assay
Authors: Thier Felix , Lieberzeit Peter A.
Published: December 2023

Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) measurements allow for assessing platelet viability directly in thrombocyte concentrates. The sensor signals correlate well with fluorescence assays and thus in principle constitute a rapid tool for quality control.
Emissions-intensive and trade-exposed industries: technological innovation and climate policy solutions to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050
Authors: Mani Anahita , Budd Thomas , Maine Elicia
Published: December 2023

We developed a Technology Roadmap for emissions intensive and trade exposed (EITE) sectors to help policymakers and firms formulate a climate change mitigation strategy employing innovative technologies for large industrial emitters.
Biological ammonium transporters from the Amt/Mep/Rh superfamily: mechanism, energetics, and technical limitations
Authors: Williamson Gordon , Bizior Adriana , Harris Thomas , Pritchard Leighton , Hoskisson Paul A. , Javelle Arnaud
Published: December 2023

The exchange of ammonium across cellular membranes is a fundamental process in all domains of life and is facilitated by the ubiquitous Amt/Mep/Rh transporter superfamily. Remarkably, despite a high structural conservation in all domains of life, these proteins have gained various biological functions during evolution. It is tempting to hypothesise that the physiological functions gained by these proteins may be explained at least in part by differences in the energetics of their translocation mechanisms. Therefore, in this review, we will explore our current knowledge of energetics of the Amt/Mep/Rh family, discuss variations in observations between different organisms, and highlight some technical drawbacks which have hampered effects at mechanistic characterisation. Through the review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of current understanding of the mechanism of transport of this unique and extraordinary Amt/Mep/Rh superfamily of ammonium transporters.