bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Spiritual Well-Being Scale in the Polish Catholic Setting: Construct, Structure, and Relationships with Psychological Well-Being
Authors: Zarzycka Beata , Tomaka Kamil , Grupa Michał , Paloutzian Raymond F. , Bufford Rodger K.
Published: October 2024

The population of Poland could be of particular interest to researchers studying religion and spirituality. Catholicism has played a significant role in shaping the country’s culture, history, and tradition and is considered a national religion. More recently, however, the processes of moving away from regular participation in religious services and loosening ties with the institution of the Catholic Church are marked (Polish Public Opinion Research Center, CBOS). The Polish Catholic setting may modify the associations between psychological variables that have been studied in their relationships with spirituality, which have been investigated in religious contexts differing from a Polish Catholic one. Given this context, we examined the internal structure of spiritual well-being in the sample of present-day Polish Catholics (Study 1) and how spiritual well-being is related to mental health (Study 2). The internal structure of the Spiritual Well-Being Scale was replicated in the Polish sample, but only positively worded items loaded on the Religious and Existential Well-Being subscales. Spiritual well-being was positively related to positive mood, satisfaction with life, and psychological well-being; it was negatively associated with negative mood, depression, and anxiety, thus remaining significantly related to psychological well-being among Polish Catholics.
Coastal boulder production controlled by columnar joints of ignimbrite and extreme waves: insights from the high-energy coast of Pantelleria Island (Sicily Channel, Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Corradino M. , Faraci C. , Monaco C. , Pepe F.
Published: October 2024

We examined the relationship between coastal boulder production and the volcanic rock features on the high-energy rocky coast of Pantelleria Island (Sicily Channel, Mediterranean Sea). We used geological data for 125 boulders and 21 rupture surfaces, integrated with fracture analysis, radiocarbon dating, numerical hydrodynamic analysis, and hindcast numerical model for wave characterization. The boulder field consists of isolated and grouped blocks detected along the shore platform and on the cliff top of Punta Sidere (northwestern coast of Pantelleria). Boulder production occurred through two mechanisms: (1) boulders were quarried from the platform edge of the low coast and cliff top as suggested by the same lithology of boulders and outcropping rocks, and by the similar shape of the boulders and rupture surfaces carved out into the rocky platform; (2) waves eroded the cliff foot, forming a notch, and boulders detached from cliff face and fell down to the shore platform. The morphometric analysis of the characteristics of boulders and outcropping rocks demonstrates that the columnar fractures controlled the boulders' polygonal surfaces and size. Whereas, the thickness of horizontal planes within the ignimbrite controlled the boulders' thickness. The numerical hydrodynamic analysis indicates that the quarrying, transport and deposition of boulders were mainly the result of storm waves up to 8 m high. The storm events occurred at different times, even recently, as suggested by two radiocarbon dating of biogenic encrustations collected from the boulders' surface and the presence of wood and plastic embedded within the boulder deposits.
Integrated optimization framework for a biomass supply network and steam Rankine cycle
Authors: Dokl Monika , Kravanja Zdravko , Čuček Lidija
Published: October 2024

The optimization of biomass supply chains is becoming increasingly important, especially for low-density biomass feedstocks that have limited market value and require efficient handling and logistics. This study addresses this issue by proposing an integrated approach to optimize biomass supply chain networks for energy production with the steam Rankine cycle. The approach takes into account the inherent variability of feedstock availability and energy market values, to ensure adaptability to fluctuating conditions. The biomass supply network is formulated as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem, where the optimization objective is to maximize the economic viability of the system. The optimal configuration of the supply network includes the selection of biomass supply zones and storage facilities, the transportation links, and the optimization of the process variables within the conversion plants, taking into account the variable heat demand. The optimization approach is applied to a hypothetical case study of a relatively small region in Slovenia. The results show the economic viability of biomass utilization with a net present value of almost 300 MEUR, generating about 4 MW of electricity and 65 MW of heat. The uncertainties of the biomass supply, the fluctuations in product prices and the spatial scope of the case study are evaluated in addition. This analysis highlights and discusses the impact of these factors on the economic performance of the biomass supply chain network.
A systematic review of unique methods for measuring discount rates
Authors: Lipman Stefan A. , Attema Arthur E.
Published: October 2024

Discount rates play a pivotal role in various fields, capturing the trade-off between present and future, influencing predictions of unhealthy behaviors. Despite substantial variations in discount rates across studies, methods, and individuals, our goal was to systematically overview diverse methods for measuring discount rates. We conducted a comprehensive literature review across multiple databases, targeting English studies introducing and utilizing discounting measurement methods in human subjects. Two authors screened titles and abstracts, with full text review split between them. Extracted data encompassed bibliographic details, theoretical aspects (e.g., discount function), and operational features (e.g., elicitation procedure). After deduplication, 4976, 218, and 83 records underwent title and abstract screening, full text screening, and inclusion, respectively. A total of 86 unique methods were identified. Predominantly, methods were devised for money (75%) and health (22%) discounting. Network analysis on citations indicated limited cross-disciplinary overlap. Only about one fourth, one third, and one third of methods possessed theoretically desirable traits: i) allowance for negative discount rates, ii) application of multiple discount functions, and iii) correction for non-linear utility of outcomes. Diverse discounting measurement methods exist, showcasing varied theoretical and operational characteristics. These differences may stem from the isolation of development in fields like psychology, experimental economics, and health economics. Our systematic review aids readers in choosing methods aligned with their priorities when measuring discount rates.
Marian Zdziechowski and Leo Tolstoy: on true Christianity and Polish patriotism
Authors: Piotrowska Joanna
Published: October 2024

Building on the cultural transfer theory of Michel Espagne and Michael Werner, the paper examines the history of Marian Zdziechowski’s interactions with Leo Tolstoy. Its starting point is their correspondence of the 1890s, and the endpoint – Zdziechowski’s magnum opus Pessimism, Romanticism and the Bases of Christianity (1915). The main emphasis lies on two microhistories of cultural transfer with opposing vectors, represented in the relations between these two figures. The first, revolving around the publication of Zdziechowski’s essay Religious and Political Ideals of Polish Society, is dedicated to the attempts of Zdziechowski, a young Polish intellectual, to secure a place in the field of Russian intellectual culture with the help of Tolstoy, one of its leading figures. The second concentrates on Tolstoy’s letter to Zdziechowski, which the latter used as a preface to a separate publication of his essay. Aiming to communicate the idea that Tolstoy was no enemy for the Poles to the Polish audience, Zdziechowski thus responded to the critical reaction to Tolstoy in the Polish press of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In the end, the figure of Zdziechowski as a mediator between cultural fields proves to be of high value for further studies of processes and mechanisms of cultural transfer.
The effect of several growth regulators and biostimulant on biochemical and physiological changes in acclimation of micropropagated Echinacea purpurea Moench. ‘Raspberry Truffle’
Authors: Grzelak Monika , Pacholczak Andrzej , Nowakowska Karolina
Published: October 2024

Micropropagation is currently one of the primary methods for plant propagation, known for its efficiency in producing disease-free and vigorous plants. However, the final stage of this—acclimatization, is critical due to the transfer from a controlled in vitro environment to an external one. To reduce mortality and alleviate acclimation stress, plant growth regulators (PGRs) or biostimulants can be employed. This study investigated the effects of exogenously sprayed PGRs: 0.001 mg L−1 abscisic acid (ABA), 0.001 mL L−1 brassinolide (BL), 0.001 mL L−1 24-epibrassinolide (24-epiBL), and 0.3 mL L−1 biostimulant Goteo on the physiological and biochemical responses of Echinacea purpurea ‘Raspberry Truffle’ plantlets during the acclimation process. The effects of treatments at various acclimation stages on chlorophyll (chl) and carotenoids content, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), free amino acids, soluble proteins, total soluble sugar and reduced soluble sugars were tested in this research. The results confirmed changes in biochemical parameters, including an increase in chlorophyll and carotenoids in the acclimatization period where the highest level obtained by BL spraying. A decline in stomatal conductance was also observed, where ABA influenced the most on drop. It was also recorded the decrease in H2O2 and MDA concentration. CAT activity increased, especially with biostimulant treatment. We recorded an increase in total soluble proteins along acclimatization. Goteo affected the most on morphology parameters, ABA, BL and 24-epiBL increased acclimatization efficiency. Our studies indicate that potentially the most effective substances in the acclimatization of E. purpurea ‘Raspberry Truffle’ are brassinosteroids and ABA.
Thermal Treatment Technologies Impede Hatching and Inhibit Reproduction of Potato Cyst Nematodes (Globodera spp.) in Infested Soils
Authors: Berger Beatrice , Daub Matthias , König Stephan
Published: October 2024

The spread of potato cyst nematodes (Globodera pallida and Globodera rostochiensis) via residual soils endangers the cultivation of potatoes. The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of thermal treatments against potato cyst nematodes (PCN) as part of reliable routine phytosanitary measures in processing plants accompanied with the highest possible throughput of tare soil. The viability and reproduction rates of potato cyst nematodes embedded in gauze sachets in a residual soil matrix were tested after treatment with dry heat, hot steam, or microwaves. An 80 °C heating by microwaves in a magnetron tunnel, which was reached after 2–7 min, was found to inactivate the potato cyst nematodes after 15 s of exposure. The data indicate that conductive heating in the Sterilo effectively kills cysts in soils when heated to 68 °C and allowed to cool down for 16 h. Inactivation of cysts was also found, when hot steam treatment (adjusted to 80 °C) was applied for 5–6 h, followed by a cooling phase for at least 18 h. We conclude that PCN’s viability and the ability to reproduce on susceptible potato plants is eliminated after thermal treatment at 80 °C with microwaves as the most effective measure with the lowest energy effort.
Challenges in Paediatric Xenotransplantation: Ethical Components Requiring Distinct Attention in Children and Obligations to Patients and Society
Authors: Merlocco Anthony , Hurst Daniel J.
Published: October 2024

The transplantation of non-human organs into humans, or xenotransplantation (XTx), has recently garnered new attention and is being developed to help address the problem of organ scarcity in transplantation. Ethical issues surrounding XTx have been studied since initial interest arose decades ago and have experienced renewed discussion in the literature. However, the distinct and relevant differences when applied to children has largely been overlooked with few groups attending to the concerns that XTx in children raises. In this paper, we explore ethical challenges to be expected in paediatric XTx, in particular exploring organ sizing concerns, infectious risks, psychological burdens, and issues of moral hazard. We review these domains with the aim of highlighting the implications of pursuing paediatric XTx and the cross-disciplinary approach needed to solve these issues. Children require a unique analysis from a bioethical perspective to best prepare for the issues XTx presents.
Maximizing efficiency in C45 steel machining: an integrated AI-based approach to coated insert optimization
Authors: Shunmugesh K. , Kurian Sony , Adam Khan M. , Satish Kumar D. , Mishra Priyanka
Published: October 2024

Machining involves the subtraction of the material from the sample workpiece to achieve the desired shape or surface. This versatile method is capable of producing a wide range of parts, varying from simple to intricate profiles. Coating materials are increasingly being utilized in tool inserts in the production industry owing to their superior thermal properties and wear resistance. The shielding of hard coatings, with thicknesses of only a few microns, enhances performance and durability. In this study, machining of C45 steel using distinct coated inserts was explored. The experimental trials employed PVD and CVD methods for coated tungsten carbide (WC) tools/inserts and PVD-coated cermet tools/inserts with different machining parameters. Performance metrics, such as the surface finish and reliability of the tool, were considered for the evaluation. The average tool life variation between the PVD-coated cermet and PVD-coated WC was 178.86%, and 30.11% between the PVD-coated cermet and CVD-coated WC at 1 mm DOC. ANOVA was performed using Response Surface Methodology to explore the influence of input parameters on output. The results indicate that the depth of machining and spindle speed significantly influence Ra, whereas spindle speed and type of tool insert have a considerable impact on the life span of the tool. The developed mathematical model for the prediction of tool life and Ra indicates its potential for performance forecasting during C45 steel machining. Grey relation analysis was employed to optimize the process parameters. Optimal results were achieved with a spindle speed of 400 m/min, 0.5 mm depth of cut, and cermet tool inserts. PVD-coated WC inserts performed better. ANFIS was applied for the prediction and optimization of the machining parameters.
Chronic Physiological Dysregulation and Changes in Depressive Symptoms: Testing Sex and Race as Vulnerability Factors
Authors: Doan Stacey N. , Aringer Alexandra S. , Vicman Jessica M. , Fuller-Rowell Thomas
Published: October 2024

Depression is a growing public health concern that affects approximately 5% of adults in their lifetime (WHO in Depression, 2021). Understanding the biological correlates of depression is imperative for advancing treatment. Of particular interest is allostatic load, a multisystem indicator of chronic physiological dysregulation (McEwen and Seeman in, Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1999). The current longitudinal study examined the association between allostatic load, depressive symptoms, and the moderating roles of sex and race. Participants consisted of 150 young adults (Mage = 18.81) who reported their demographics and depressive symptoms at T1 and T2, a year and a half later. Allostatic load was computed using indicators of metabolic, cardiovascular, and neuroendocrine functioning. Allostatic load was found to predict changes in depressive symptoms. Moreover, interaction effects models revealed that the associations between allostatic load and depressive symptoms at follow-up were further influenced by sex, such that the relationship was significant for males, with pronounced effects for Black males in particular. Black males may be particularly vulnerable to the mental health consequences of biological dysregulation.
Discourse comprehension and referential processing: effects of contextual distance and semantic plausibility on presupposition processing
Authors: Dietrich Susanne , Seibold Verena C. , Rolke Bettina
Published: October 2024

The present study aimed to investigate whether contextual factors influence how a reference is processed in discourse. We used intact and violated presuppositions (PSP), triggered by a definite or indefinite noun phrase, to monitor the reference process. In one sentence set, a contextual referent was explicitly mentioned close or far from the PSP-triggering noun phrase (memory context). In another sentence set, a referent was not explicitly mentioned in the context, but an inference to a referent was either plausible or implausible due to contextual semantic relations (inference context). Participants were asked to rate the coherence of the discourse after listening to it. Our results revealed a strong influence of the temporal distance of the contextual presentation of a referent. When the referent was far in the context (memory context), PSP violations were judged to be less severe than for close referents, suggesting that they are less clearly represented in memory. Furthermore, PSP violations seemed to play a subordinate role when the semantic context provided a basis for the plausible presence of a referent (inference context). Our results suggest that discourse comprehension involves referential processes whose importance may fade with distance in memory or may be obscured by semantic contextual content.
Not Billington, not Zoella, and Definitely not a ‘Fangirl’: Social Distinction within Communities of Amateur Theatre Critics
Authors: Vaughan Megan
Published: October 2024

In theatre criticism, the lines between professional and amateur have softened considerably since the turn of the twenty-first century, with much attention – academic and journalistic – given to the impact of amateur theatre criticism on theatre-making and marketing, on newspapers, and on theatre scholarship. So far, however, the voices and perspectives of amateur critics themselves have largely been absent from research. To rectify this absence, this study applies sociological concepts from Pierre Bourdieu and Sarah Thornton to thirty-five interviews undertaken with practising theatre bloggers in the United Kingdom in order to understand their relative positions within three intersecting fields: the field of professional theatre reviewing; the field of online ‘influencing’; and the smaller and more specific field of ‘amateur’ theatre criticism. Here, the study undertaken finds a significant proportion of practitioners using the counterpoint of the ‘fangirl’ – whose practices of appreciation and etiquette are widely disparaged – to advocate for their own purportedly more intellectual and professional approaches to critique.
Decision-making for children and adolescents: a scoping review of interventions increasing participation in decision-making
Authors: Bosch Inga , Siebel Hermann , Heiser Maike , Inhestern Laura
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To review and synthesize the literature on interventions to facilitate shared decision-making or to increase participation in decision-making in pediatrics focusing on interventions for children and adolescents.

Methods

We systematically searched three electronic databases (September 2021, update in September 2022). We included studies that aimed to increase involvement of children and adolescents in medical or treatment decisions, regardless of study design and reported outcomes. Study quality was assessed using the MMAT. The synthesis strategy followed a narrative methodology.

Results

21 studies met the inclusion criteria. Interventions aimed to increase participation by provision of information, encouraging active participation and collaboration. Didactic strategies included digital interactive applications (n = 12), treatment protocols and guiding questions (n = 12), questionnaires or quizzes about patients’ condition or their knowledge (n = 8), visual aids (n = 4), and educational courses (n = 1). Findings indicate positive effects on some of the investigated outcomes. However, the heterogeneity of studies made it difficult to draw consistent conclusions about the effectiveness of interventions.

Conclusions

Interventions used a variety of approaches to facilitate SDM and increase participation. The findings suggest that interventions have inconsistent effects across different outcome variables. The evidence was limited due to the methodological shortcomings of the included studies.

Impact

To increase the participation of children and adolescents in decision-making, interventions targeting them are needed. Most intervention focus on the provision of information and encouragement for active participation.

The results suggest high feasibility and, mostly, positive effects in participation, health-related knowledge, patient-HCP relationship, and adherence

The study highlights that further high-quality studies using similar outcome parameters are needed to investigate the effects of interventions to facilitate participation in decision-making.
In vitro models of the crosstalk between multiple myeloma and stromal cells recapitulate the mild NF-κB activation observed in vivo
Authors: Colombo Federica , Guzzeloni Virginia , Kizilirmak Cise , Brambilla Francesca , Garcia-Manteiga Jose Manuel , Tascini Anna Sofia , Moalli Federica , Mercalli Francesca , Ponzoni Maurilio , Mezzapelle Rosanna , Ferrarini Marina , Ferrero Elisabetta , Visone Roberta , Rasponi Marco , Bianchi Marco E. , Zambrano Samuel , Agresti Alessandra
Published: October 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) is linked to chronic NF-κB activity in myeloma cells, but this activity is generally considered a cell-autonomous property of the cancer cells. The precise extent of NF-κB activation and the contributions of the physical microenvironment and of cell-to-cell communications remain largely unknown. By quantitative immunofluorescence, we found that NF-κB is mildly and heterogeneously activated in a fraction of MM cells in human BMs, while only a minority of MM cells shows a strong activation. To gain quantitative insights on NF-κB activation in living MM cells, we combined advanced live imaging of endogenous p65 Venus-knocked-in in MM.1S and HS-5 cell lines to model MM and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), cell co-cultures, microfluidics and custom microbioreactors to mimic the 3D-interactions within the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. We found that i) reciprocal MM-MSC paracrine crosstalk and cell-to-scaffold interactions shape the inflammatory response in the BM; ii) the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β, abundant in MM patients’ plasma, activates MSCs, whose paracrine signals are responsible for strong NF-κB activation in a minority of MM cells; iii) IL-1β, but not TNF-α, activates NF-κB in vivo in BM-engrafted MM cells, while its receptor inhibitor Anakinra reduces the global NF-κB activation. We propose that NF-κB activation in the BM of MM patients is mild, restricted to a minority of cells and modulated by the interplay of restraining physical microenvironmental cues and activating IL-1β-dependent stroma-to-MM crosstalk.
BCKDH kinase promotes hepatic gluconeogenesis independent of BCKDHA
Authors: Zhou Feiye , Sheng Chunxiang , Ma Xiaoqin , Li Tianjiao , Ming Xing , Wang Shushu , Tan Jialin , Yang Yulin , Sun Haipeng , Lu Jieli , Liu Jianmin , Deng Ruyuan , Wang Xiao , Zhou Libin
Published: October 2024

Elevated circulating branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are tightly linked to an increased risk in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The rate limiting enzyme of BCAA catabolism branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) is phosphorylated at E1α subunit (BCKDHA) by its kinase (BCKDK) and inactivated. Here, the liver-specific BCKDK or BCKDHA knockout mice displayed normal glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. However, knockout of BCKDK in the liver inhibited hepatic glucose production as well as the expression of key gluconeogenic enzymes. No abnormal gluconeogenesis was found in mice lacking hepatic BCKDHA. Consistent with the vivo results, BT2-mediated inhibition or genetic knockdown of BCKDK decreased hepatic glucose production and gluconeogenic gene expressions in primary mouse hepatocytes while BCKDK overexpression exhibited an opposite effect. Whereas, gluconeogenic gene expressions were not altered in BCKDHA-silenced hepatocytes. Mechanistically, BT2 treatment attenuated the interaction of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) with CREB-binding protein and promoted FOXO1 protein degradation by increasing its ubiquitination. Our findings suggest that BCKDK regulates hepatic gluconeogenesis through CREB and FOXO1 signalings, independent of BCKDHA-mediated BCAA catabolism.
Targeting oncogenic MAGEA6 sensitizes triple negative breast cancer to doxorubicin through its autophagy and ferroptosis by stabling AMPKα1
Authors: Zhu Hui , Jiang Cheng-wei , Zhang Wen-long , Yang Zhao-ying , Sun Guang
Published: October 2024

Melanoma-associated antigen A6 (MAGEA6) is well known to have oncogenic activity, but the underlying mechanisms by which it regulates tumor progression and chemo-resistance, especially in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), have been unknown. In the study, the differential expression genes (DEGs) in TNBC tumor tissues and TNBC-resistant tumor tissues were analyzed based on TCGA and GEO datasets. MAGEA6, as the most significantly expressed gene, was analyzed by RT-qPCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry assay in TNBC cell lines and tumor tissues. The potential mechanisms that influence chemo-resistance were also evaluated. Results displayed that MAGEA6 was highly expressed in TNBC and involved in drug resistance. MAGEA6 silencing enhanced the chemo-sensitivity of TNBC to doxorubicin (DOX) in vitro and in vivo, as determined by decreasing IC50 value, proliferation and invasion capacity, and triggering apoptosis. Mechanistically, it was shown that MAGEA6 depletion sensitized TNBC to DOX via regulating autophagy. Ubiquitination assay displayed that knockdown of MAGEA6 decreased the AMPKα1 ubiquitination, thereby elevating the levels of AMPKα1 and p-AMPKα in TNBC cells. Importantly, AMPK inhibitor (Compound C) can reduce the LC3II/I level induced by sh-MAGEA6, indicating that sh-MAGEA6 activated AMPK signaling through suppressing AMPKα1 ubiquitination and then facilitated autophagy in TNBC. Furthermore, we also observed that AMPK is required for SLC7A11 to regulate ferroptosis, and supported the crux roles of MAGEA6/AMPK/SLC7A11-mediated ferroptosis on modulating DOX sensitivity in TNBC cells. These findings indicated that targeting MAGEA6 can enhance the chemo-sensitivity in TNBC via activation of autophagy and ferroptosis; its mechanism involves AMPKα1-dependent autophagy and AMPKα1/SLC7A11-induced ferroptosis.
GLUT1 overexpression in CAR-T cells induces metabolic reprogramming and enhances potency
Authors: Guerrero Justin A. , Klysz Dorota D. , Chen Yiyun , Malipatlolla Meena , Lone Jameel , Fowler Carley , Stuani Lucille , May Audre , Bashti Malek , Xu Peng , Huang Jing , Michael Basil , Contrepois Kévin , Dhingra Shaurya , Fisher Chris , Svensson Katrin J. , Davis Kara L. , Kasowski Maya , Feldman Steven A. , Sotillo Elena , Mackall Crystal L.
Published: October 2024

The intensive nutrient requirements needed to sustain T cell activation and proliferation, combined with competition for nutrients within the tumor microenvironment, raise the prospect that glucose availability may limit CAR-T cell function. Here, we seek to test the hypothesis that stable overexpression (OE) of the glucose transporter GLUT1 in primary human CAR-T cells would improve their function and antitumor potency. We observe that GLUT1OE in CAR-T cells increases glucose consumption, glycolysis, glycolytic reserve, and oxidative phosphorylation, and these effects are associated with decreased T cell exhaustion and increased Th17 differentiation. GLUT1OE also induces broad metabolic reprogramming associated with increased glutathione-mediated resistance to reactive oxygen species, and increased inosine accumulation. When challenged with tumors, GLUT1OE CAR-T cells secrete more proinflammatory cytokines and show enhanced cytotoxicity in vitro, and demonstrate superior tumor control and persistence in mouse models. Our collective findings support a paradigm wherein glucose availability is rate limiting for effector CAR-T cell function and demonstrate that enhancing glucose availability via GLUT1OE could augment antitumor immune function.
Conservation agriculture improves soil health and sustains crop yields after long-term warming
Authors: Teng Jialing , Hou Ruixing , Dungait Jennifer A. J. , Zhou Guiyao , Kuzyakov Yakov , Zhang Jingbo , Tian Jing , Cui Zhenling , Zhang Fusuo , Delgado-Baquerizo Manuel
Published: October 2024

Climate warming threatens global food security by exacerbating pressures on degraded soils under intensive crop production. Conservation agriculture is promoted as a sustainable solution that improves soil health and sustains crop yields in a changing climate, but these benefits may be affected by long-term warming. Here, we investigate the effects of conservation agriculture compared to conventional agriculture on 17 soil properties, microbial diversity and crop yields, during eight-years’ experimental warming. An overall positive effect of warming on soil health over time under conservation agriculture is characterized by linear increases in soil organic carbon and microbial biomass carbon. Warming-triggered shifts in microbial biomass carbon and fungal diversity (saprogen richness) are directly linked to a 9.3% increase in wheat yields over eight years, but only under conservation agriculture. Overall, conservation agriculture results in an average 21% increase in soil health and supports similar levels of crop production after long-term warming compared to conventional agriculture. Our work provides insights into the potential benefits of conservation agriculture for long-term sustainable food production because improved soil health improves resilience to the effects of climate warming.
Simultaneous measurement of multiple incompatible observables and tradeoff in multiparameter quantum estimation
Authors: Chen Hongzhen , Wang Lingna , Yuan Haidong
Published: October 2024

How well can multiple incompatible observables be implemented by a single measurement? This is a fundamental problem in quantum mechanics with wide implications for the performance optimization of numerous tasks in quantum information science. While existing studies have been mostly focusing on the approximation of two observables with a single measurement, in practice multiple observables are often encountered, for which the errors of the approximations are little understood. Here we provide a framework to study the implementation of an arbitrary finite number of observables with a single measurement. Our methodology yields novel analytical bounds on the errors of these implementations, significantly advancing our understanding of this fundamental problem. Additionally, we introduce a more stringent bound utilizing semi-definite programming that, in the context of two observables, generates an analytical bound tighter than previously known bounds. The derived bounds have direct applications in assessing the trade-off between the precision of estimating multiple parameters in quantum metrology, an area with crucial theoretical and practical implications. To validate the validity of our findings, we conducted experimental verification using a superconducting quantum processor. This experimental validation not only confirms the theoretical results but also effectively bridges the gap between the derived bounds and empirical data obtained from real-world experiments. Our work paves the way for optimizing various tasks in quantum information science that involve multiple noncommutative observables.
Systems profiling reveals recurrently dysregulated cytokine signaling responses in ER+ breast cancer patients’ blood
Authors: Orcutt-Jahns Brian , Lima Junior Joao Rodrigues , Lin Emily , Rockne Russell C. , Matache Adina , Branciamore Sergio , Hung Ethan , Rodin Andrei S. , Lee Peter P. , Meyer Aaron S.
Published: October 2024

Cytokines operate in concert to maintain immune homeostasis and coordinate immune responses. In cases of ER+ breast cancer, peripheral immune cells exhibit altered responses to several cytokines, and these alterations are correlated strongly with patient outcomes. To develop a systems-level understanding of this dysregulation, we measured a panel of cytokine responses and receptor abundances in the peripheral blood of healthy controls and ER+ breast cancer patients across immune cell types. Using tensor factorization to model this multidimensional data, we found that breast cancer patients exhibited widespread alterations in response, including drastically reduced response to IL-10 and heightened basal levels of pSmad2/3 and pSTAT4. ER+ patients also featured upregulation of PD-L1, IL6Rα, and IL2Rα, among other receptors. Despite this, alterations in response to cytokines were not explained by changes in receptor abundances. Thus, tensor factorization helped to reveal a coordinated reprogramming of the immune system that was consistent across our cohort.
A temporal (phospho-)proteomic dataset of neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase signalling in neuroblastoma
Authors: Maher Stephanie , Wynne Kieran , Zhernovkov Vadim , Halasz Melinda
Published: October 2024

Neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinases (TrkA, TrkB, TrkC), despite their homology, contribute to the clinical heterogeneity of the childhood cancer neuroblastoma. TrkA expression is associated with low-stage disease and is often seen with spontaneous tumour regression. Conversely, TrkB is present in unfavourable neuroblastomas that often harbour amplification of the MYCN oncogene. The role of TrkC is less clearly defined, although some studies suggest its association with a favourable outcome. Understanding the differences in activity of Trk receptors that drive divergent clinical phenotypes as well as the influence of MYCN amplification on downstream Trk receptor signalling remains poorly understood. Here, we present a comprehensive label-free mass spectrometry-based total proteomics and phosphoproteomics dataset (432 raw files with FragPipe search outputs; available on PRIDE with accession number PXD054441) where we identified and quantified 4,907 proteins, 16,744 phosphosites and 5,084 phosphoproteins, derived from NGF/BDNF/NT-3 treated TrkA/B/C-overexpressing neuroblastoma cells with differential MYCN status. Analysing our dataset offers valuable insights into TrkA/B/C receptor signalling in neuroblastoma and its modulation by MYCN status; and holds potential for advancing therapeutic strategies in this challenging childhood cancer.
Electromyographically controlled prosthetic wrist improves dexterity and reduces compensatory movements without added cognitive load
Authors: Olsen Connor D. , Olsen Nathaniel R. , Stone Eric S. , Tully Troy N. , Paskett Michael D. , Teramoto Masaru , Clark Gregory A. , George Jacob A.
Published: October 2024

Wrist function is a top priority for transradial amputees. However, the combined functional, biomechanical, and cognitive impact of using a powered prosthetic wrist is unclear. Here, we quantify task performance, compensatory movements, and cognitive load while three transradial amputees performed a modified Clothespin Relocation Task using two myoelectric prostheses with and without the wrists. The two myoelectric prostheses include a commercial prosthesis with a built-in powered wrist, and a newly developed inexpensive prosthetic wrist for research purposes, called the “Utah wrist”, that can be adapted to work with various sockets and prostheses. For these three participants, task failure rate decreased significantly from 66% ± 12% without the wrist to 39% ± 9% with the Utah wrist. Compensatory forward leaning movements also decreased significantly, from 24.2° ± 2.5 without the wrist to 12.6° ± 1.0 with the Utah wrist, and from 23.6° ± 7.6 to 15.3° ± 7.2 with the commercial prosthesis with an integrated wrist. Compensatory leftward bending movements also significantly decreased, from 20.8° ± 8.6 to 12.3° ± 5.3, for the commercial with an integrated wrist. Importantly, simultaneous myoelectric control of either prosthetic wrist had no significant impact on cognitive load, as assessed by the NASA Task Load Index survey and a secondary detection response task. This work suggests that functional prosthetic wrists can improve dexterity and reduce compensation without significantly increasing cognitive effort. These results, and the introduction of a new inexpensive prosthetic wrist for research purposes, can aid future research and development and guide the prescription of upper-limb prostheses.
Finite element analysis of restoring length with multiple internal fixations in calcaneal body fracture
Authors: Yao Xiang , Ding Peiqi , Wang Chong , Miao Han , Chao Yicong , Wang Jiawei , Hu Minjie , Tang Jilei
Published: October 2024

Calcaneal body fractures are often associated with varying degrees of shortening deformities. Restoring calcaneal length is crucial for the functional prognosis of the foot. Through finite element analysis, this study compared the biomechanical effects of multiple fixation schemes for calcaneal fractures. We delineated and assembled the finite element model of the Sanders type II calcaneal fracture and four internal fixation simulations (namely distraction screw, lag screw, frame locking plate, and T-shaped locking plate). Different axial forces (350, 700, and 1400 N) were then applied to simulate various postures. We then compared the inner and outer shortening distances (D1 and D2, respectively), equivalent von Mises stress, and maximum von Mises stress of the calcaneus. In the individual model, with an increase in the pressure, D1, D2, and the maximum von Mises stress gradually increased. At 1400 N, D1 and D2 for the internal fixation schemes were as follows: distraction screw (0.03 mm, 0.1 mm) < T-shaped locking plate (0.45 mm, 0.26 mm) < frame locking plate (0.50 mm, 0.26 mm) < lag screw (0.66 mm, 0.64 mm). The maximum von Mises stress values for the internal fixation methods were as follows: lag screw (491.0 MPa) < distraction screw (663.1 MPa) < frame locking plate (772.7 MPa) < T-shaped locking plate (931.8 MPa). In patients with calcaneal body fractures, the distraction screw is a potential therapeutic option for resisting calcaneal shortening.
Mitigating noise in digital and digital–analog quantum computation
Authors: García-Molina Paula , Martin Ana , Garcia de Andoin Mikel , Sanz Mikel
Published: October 2024

Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) devices lack error correction, limiting scalability for quantum algorithms. In this context, digital-analog quantum computing (DAQC) offers a more resilient alternative quantum computing paradigm that outperforms digital quantum computation by combining the flexibility of single-qubit gates with the robustness of analog simulations. This work explores the impact of noise on both digital and DAQC paradigms and demonstrates DAQC’s effectiveness in error mitigation. We compare the quantum Fourier transform and quantum phase estimation algorithms under a wide range of single and two-qubit noise sources in superconducting processors. DAQC consistently surpasses digital approaches in fidelity, particularly as processor size increases. Moreover, zero-noise extrapolation further enhances DAQC by mitigating decoherence and intrinsic errors, achieving fidelities above 0.95 for 8 qubits, and reducing computation errors to the order of 10−3. These results establish DAQC as a viable alternative for quantum computing in the NISQ era.
Probing the role of ligation and exonuclease digestion towards non-specific amplification in bioanalytical RCA assays
Authors: Nair Vandana Kuttappan , Sharma Chandrika , Kumar Shrawan , Sengupta Mrittika , Ghosh Souradyuti
Published: October 2024

Comprehensive quantitative analysis of various ligation and digestion conditions to identify and minimize non-specific amplification in RCA bioanalytical methods.
Environmentally friendly screen-printed electrodes for the selective detection of 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2C-B) in forensic analysis
Authors: Macedo Anne Alves , Pimentel Dilton Martins , Melo Larissa Magalhães de Almeida , Rocha Cláudia M. , de Fátima Ângelo , Souza Karla A. O. , Costa Jose L. , Arantes Luciano Chaves , dos Santos Wallans Torres Pio
Published: October 2024

In response to the growing need for sustainable analytical methods, this study explores the repurposing of screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) that would otherwise be discarded.
Engineering a high-capacity and long-cycle-life magnesium/lithium hybrid-ion battery using a lamellar SnSe2/SnSe/SnO2 cathode
Authors: Liu Jiamin , Zhou Ting , Shen Yun , Zuo Peng , Qiu Hui , Zhu Yajun , Liu Jinyun
Published: October 2024

Development of a novel magnesium/lithium hybrid-ion battery using a lamellar SnSe2/SnSe/SnO2 cathode and its high-quality performance are described.
Multiferroic properties and giant piezoelectric effect of a 2D Janus WO3F monolayer
Authors: Zhao Hongbo , Ding Longhua , Ren Na , Yu Xin , Wang Aizhu , Zhao Mingwen
Published: October 2024

The WO3F monolayer possesses both ferroelectricity and ferromagnetism, and the piezoelectric response can be modulated by strain engineering, with piezoelectric coefficients d11 up to 922.33 pm V−1 at 4% tensile strain.
Cluster helicates: promising functional materials
Authors: Fernández-Fariña Sandra , Barreiro-Sisto Uxía , Martínez-Calvo Miguel , Pedrido Rosa , González-Noya Ana M.
Published: October 2024

This Frontier article offers an overview of recent developments in the field of cluster helicates, focusing on the synthesis routes of these materials and their applications.
Solid-state fermentation of green lentils by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum leads to formation of distinct peptides that are absorbable and enhances DPP-IV inhibitory activity in an intestinal Caco-2 cell model
Authors: Di Stefano Elisa , Hüttmann Nico , Dekker Pieter , Tomassen Monic M. M. , Oliviero Teresa , Fogliano Vincenzo , Udenigwe Chibuike C.
Published: October 2024

In vitro gastrointestinal digestion, brush border enzyme activity, and microbial fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum influenced the peptidome of green lentils and peptide transport across the intestinal Caco-2 cell monolayer.
Will it blend? Exploring the viscoelastic characteristics of P3HT-polyborosiloxane blends towards flexible electronic materials
Authors: Gilhooly-Finn Peter A. , Westwood Megan M. , Schroeder Bob C.
Published: October 2024

This study examines how blending P3HT with polyborosiloxane affects its mechanical and thermal properties, focusing on the crosslinking density and rheological behaviour.
Optimization of O2 evolution electrocatalytic activity via engineered one-pot synthesized ZnSe/CoSe2@N-doped C composite
Authors: Son Hyeonwook , Baek Jinhyuk , Jeghan Shrine Maria Nithya , Kim Moonsu , Lee Gibaek
Published: October 2024

We designed the ZnSe/CoSe2@NC heterocatalyst, exhibiting reasonable OER activity. Additionally, the ratio of Zn/Co was engineered, suggesting the trade-off point between intrinsic OER activity and Co active sites.
Nano-sized metal oxide fertilizers for sustainable agriculture: balancing benefits, risks, and risk management strategies
Authors: Thangavelu Raja Muthuramalingam , da Silva Washington Luis , Zuverza-Mena Nubia , Dimkpa Christian O. , White Jason C.
Published: October 2024

This critical review comprehensively analyses nano-sized metal oxide fertilizers (NMOFs) and their transformative potential in sustainable agriculture.
Nanoengineering steel's durability: creating gradient nanostructured spheroidal carbides and lath-shaped nano-martensite via ultrasonic shot peening
Authors: Yin Fei , Yi Yuxuan , Yang Chang , Cheng Gary J.
Published: October 2024

Surface nanoengineering can significantly improve the mechanical properties and performance of metals, such as strength, hardness, fatigue, wear resistance, etc.
Mg2+-modified LiBaF3:Ni2+ perovskite single crystals with broadband long wavelength near-infrared emission for imaging human vascular structures
Authors: Wei Di , Xia Haiping , Fang Lizhi , Su Liangbi , Chen Xu , Song Hongwei
Published: October 2024

Near-infrared (NIR) luminescence materials are ideal candidates for applications in three-dimensional biomedical imaging and night vision.
How reduction temperature influences the structure of perovskite-oxide catalysts during the dry reforming of methane
Authors: Schrenk Florian , Lindenthal Lorenz , Drexler Hedda , Berger Tobias , Rameshan Raffael , Ruh Thomas , Föttinger Karin , Rameshan Christoph
Published: October 2024

Effects of pre-treatment temperatures on the catalytic activity of a Ni-doped perovskite for dry reforming of methane were studied. Particles form at optimal temperatures that are stable under reaction conditions, shown by in situ XRD measurements.
Action recognition algorithm based on skeleton graph with multiple features and improved adjacency matrix
Authors: Zhang Shanqing , Jiao Shuheng , Chen Yujie , Xu Jiayi
Published: October 2024

Although graph convolutional networks have achieved good performances in skeleton‐graph‐based action recognition, there are still some problems which include the incomplete utilization of skeleton graph features and the lacking of logical adjacency information between nodes in adjacency matrix. In this article, a human action recognition algorithm is proposed based on multiple features from the skeleton graph to solve these problems. More specifically, an improved adjacency matrix is constructed to make full use of the multiple skeleton graph features. These features include local differential features, multi‐scale edge features, features of the original skeleton graph, nodal features, and nodal motion features. Extensive results are conducted on four standard datasets (NTU RGB‐D 60, NTU RGB‐D 120, Kinetics, and Northwestern‐UCLA). The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the SOTA action recognition algorithms.
Discovery of three magnetic helium-rich hot subdwarfs with SALT
Authors: Dorsch M. , Jeffery C. S. , Philip Monai A. , Tout C. A. , Snowdon E. J. , Monageng I. , Scott L. J. A. , Miszalski B. , Woolf V. M.
Published: October 2024

Magnetic fields with strengths ranging from 300 to 500 kG have recently been discovered in a group of four extremely similar helium-rich hot subdwarf (He-sdO) stars. In addition to their strong magnetic fields, these He-sdO stars are characterised by common atmospheric parameters, clustering around Teff = 46 500 K, a log ɡ/cm s−1 close to 6, and intermediate helium abundances. Here we present the discovery of three additional magnetic hot subdwarfs, J123359.44–674929.11, J125611.42-575333.45, and J144405.79–674400.93. These stars are again almost identical in terms of atmospheric parameters, but, at B ≈ 200 kG, their magnetic fields are somewhat weaker than those previously known. The close similarity of all known He-sdOs implies a finely tuned formation channel. We propose the merging of a He white dwarf with a H+He white dwarf. A differential rotation at the merger interface may initiate a toroidal magnetic field that evolves via a magnetic dynamo to produce a poloidal field. This field is either directly visible at the surface or might diffuse towards the surface if initially buried. We further discuss a broad absorption line centred at about 4630 Å that is common to all magnetic He-sdOs. This feature may not be related to the magnetic field but instead to the intermediate helium abundances in these He-sdO stars, allowing the strong He II 4686 Å line to be perturbed by collisions with hydrogen atoms.