bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the strict topology of the multipliers of a JB$$^*$$-algebra
Authors: Fernández-Polo Francisco J. , Garcés Jorge J. , Li Lei , Peralta Antonio M.
Published: July 2023

We introduce the Jordan-strict topology on the multiplier algebra of a JB$$^*$$

∗

-algebra, a notion which was missing despite the forty years passed after the first studies on Jordan multipliers. In case that a C$$^*$$

∗

-algebra A is regarded as a JB$$^*$$

∗

-algebra, the J-strict topology of M(A) is precisely the well-studied C$$^*$$

∗

-strict topology. We prove that every JB$$^*$$

∗

-algebra $${\mathfrak {A}}$$
A
is J-strict dense in its multiplier algebra $$M({\mathfrak {A}})$$

M
(
A
)

, and that latter algebra is J-strict complete. We show that continuous surjective Jordan homomorphisms, triple homomorphisms, and orthogonality preserving operators between JB$$^*$$

∗

-algebras admit J-strict continuous extensions to the corresponding type of operators between the multiplier algebras. We characterize J-strict continuous functionals on the multiplier algebra of a JB$$^*$$

∗

-algebra $${\mathfrak {A}}$$
A
, and we establish that the dual of $$M({\mathfrak {A}})$$

M
(
A
)

with respect to the J-strict topology is isometrically isomorphic to $${\mathfrak {A}}^*$$

A

∗

. We also present a first application of the J-strict topology of the multiplier algebra, by showing that under the extra hypothesis that $${\mathfrak {A}}$$
A
and $${\mathfrak {B}}$$
B
are $$\sigma $$
σ
-unital JB$$^*$$

∗

-algebras, every surjective Jordan $$^*$$

∗

-homomorphism (respectively, triple homomorphism or continuous orthogonality preserving operator) from $${\mathfrak {A}}$$
A
onto $${\mathfrak {B}}$$
B
admits an extension to a surjective J-strict continuous Jordan $$^*$$

∗

-homomorphism (respectively, triple homomorphism or continuous orthogonality preserving operator) from $$M({\mathfrak {A}})$$

M
(
A
)

onto $$M({\mathfrak {B}})$$

M
(
B
)

.
Assessing quality of life with SarQol is useful in screening for sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity in older women
Authors: Fonfría-Vivas Rosa , Pérez-Ros Pilar , Barrachina-Igual Joaquín , Pablos-Monzó Ana , Martínez-Arnau Francisco M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) may be impaired in the presence of sarcopenia. Since a specific quality of life questionnaire became available for sarcopenia (SarQol), cutoffs to screen for this condition have been proposed, prompting the need to assess them in different populations. Due to the lack of consensus on diagnostic criteria, the tool has not yet been analyzed in screening for sarcopenic obesity.

Aim

Our aim is to measure the SarQoL’s metric properties and establish a cutoff in QoL assessments that could be used along the diagnostic pathway for sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity in community-dwelling older women.

Methods

This cross-sectional study assessed women aged ≥ 70 years using the SarQol, sarcopenia criteria (EWGSOP2) and sarcopenic obesity criteria (ESPEN/EASO). Cutoffs for the SarQol were defined with a receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curve, and sensitivity and specificity were analyzed.

Results

Of the 95 included women (mean age 76.0 years, standard deviation [SD] 5.7), 7.3% (n = 7) were classified as having sarcopenic obesity, 22.1% (n = 21) as having sarcopenia, and 70.5% (n = 67) as not having sarcopenia. The total SarQol score was higher in women without sarcopenia (66.5 SD 16.2) versus those with sarcopenia (56.6 SD 15.6) and sarcopenic obesity (45.1 SD 7.9). A cutoff of ≤ 60 points is proposed for sarcopenia screening (area under the ROC curve [AUC] 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.53–0.80; sensitivity 61.9%; specificity 62%), and ≤ 50 points for sarcopenic obesity (AUC 0.85; 95% CI 0.74–0.95; sensitivity 71.4%; specificity 76.9%).

Conclusions

Quality of life is compromised in women with sarcopenia and especially in those with sarcopenic obesity. The SarQol could be useful in screening for these conditions, providing insight into health-related quality of life in older people with sarcopenia.
End-stage kidney disease: a never healing wound leading to another never healing wound, renal cancer
Authors: Docs Janos , Kovacs Gyula , Peterfi Lehel
Published: July 2023

Background

End-stage kidney disease and acquired cystic kidney disease are the final stages of chronic kidney disease, leading to loss of kidney function and frequent development of tumours. It has been suggested that an inflammatory microenvironment may be responsible for the progressive kidney remodelling and cancer development.

Methods

Our aim was to analyse gene expression suggested to be involved in the remodelling of kidneys in end-stage kidney disease, and in the development of preneoplastic lesions and tumours. Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the cellular localisation of different genes involved in these pathways on representative tissue sections.

Results

Cellular (αSMA positive naïve activated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, macrophages) and non-cellular components (cytokines IL6, TGFβ, IL1β, CSF2, fibronectin, laminin, and matrix modifier proteases MMP9 and MMP12) of the inflammatory microenvironment were expressed in the kidneys of patients with end-stage kidney disease. IL6 and FN1 expressing naïve activated fibroblasts and recruited inflammatory cells were the most abundant cellular components of the inflammatory microenvironment.

Conclusion

The progressive inflammatory and fibrotic processes in end-stage kidney disease have features recalling those of  a never healing wound and may explain the frequent development of kidney cancer.

Graphical abstract
Two contrasting principles, reductionist and systemic: Fundamentally separated or dynamically interacting?
Authors: Lüttge Ulrich
Published: July 2023

According to the intentions of the special issue “Advances in Philosophical and Theoretical Plant Biology” of the journal “Theoretical and Experimental Plant Physiology” plant biology is overviewed within the contrasting realms of natural science and metaphysics. Contrasting views in these realms are exemplified with modularity – emergence, reductionist – systemic, things – processes. Domains of diversity, serendipity, beauty and time are envisaged. It is concluded that separate work within these contrasting realms and domains has to be maintained for accumulating and specifying basic knowledge. However, this is not sufficient for advancing philosophical and theoretical plant biology towards an improved understanding of (plant-) life. It is shown that and how integration is possible. Integration must be approached and practiced for a better understanding of life.
Superelastic Radiative Cooling Metafabric for Comfortable Epidermal Electrophysiological Monitoring
Authors: Dong Jiancheng , Peng Yidong , Zhang Yiting , Chai Yujia , Long Jiayan , Zhang Yuxi , Zhao Yan , Huang Yunpeng , Liu Tianxi
Published: July 2023

Epidermal electronics with superb passive-cooling capabilities are of great value for both daytime outdoor dressing comfort and low-carbon economy. Herein, a multifunctional and skin-attachable electronic is rationally developed on a porous all-elastomer metafabric for efficient passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) and human electrophysiological monitoring. The cooling characteristics are realized through the homogeneous impregnation of polytetrafluoroethylene microparticles in the styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene fibers, and the rational regulation of microporosity in SEBS/PTFE metafabrics, thus synergistically backscatter ultraviolet–visible–near-infrared light (maximum reflectance over 98.0%) to minimize heat absorption while efficiently emit human-body midinfrared radiation to the sky. As a result, the developed PDRC metafabric achieves approximately 17 °C cooling effects in an outdoor daytime environment and completely retains its passive cooling performance even under 50% stretching. Further, high-fidelity electrophysiological monitoring capability is also implemented in the breathable and skin-conformal metafabric through liquid metal printing, enabling the accurate acquisition of human electrocardiograph, surface electromyogram, and electroencephalograph signals for comfortable and lengthy health regulation. Hence, the fabricated superelastic PDRC metafabric opens a new avenue for the development of body-comfortable electronics and low-carbon wearing technologies.
Study on the development law of self-oscillating pulsed SC-CO2 jet vortex structure and its effect on frequency
Authors: Liu Yong , Li Haichao , Shen Helian , Deng Yujie , Liu Xiaotian
Published: July 2023

The self-oscillating pulsed supercritical (SC)-CO2 jet technology has higher pulse pressure and the resonant rock-breaking effect, which can improve the drilling efficiency of the development of unconventional gas sources. The jet impact frequency is the key to resonance in coal rock mass; however, the relationship between frequency variation and flow field remain unknown. This study investigates the vortex change law and the effect on frequency of self-oscillating pulsed SC-CO2 jets. Large eddy simulations are used to analyze the variation characteristics of vortex structure and frequency at different locations of the jet. The results show that the variation of the vortex size in the oscillating cavity leads to the change of the jet velocity. Large-scale vortex is generated at the downstream nozzle exit and is accompanied by a high-speed zone of the jet, vortex development produces energy dissipation, which decreases the velocity in the high-speed zone. The jet frequency in the oscillating cavity is the same as the vortex ring size variation law; the vortex passing frequency in the free flow field is the same as the jet frequency, and the vortex ring energy dissipation causes the jet velocity to decrease, resulting in a lower frequency.
Automating intersection marking data collection and condition assessment at scale with an artificial intelligence-powered system
Authors: Xie Kun , Sun Huiming , Dong Xiaomeng , Yang Hong , Yu Hongkai
Published: July 2023

Intersection markings play a vital role in providing road users with guidance and information. The conditions of intersection markings will be gradually degrading due to vehicular traffic, rain, and/or snowplowing. Degraded markings can confuse drivers, leading to increased risk of traffic crashes. Timely obtaining high-quality information of intersection markings lays a foundation for making informed decisions in safety management and maintenance prioritization. However, current labor-intensive and high-cost data collection practices make it very challenging to gather intersection data on a large scale. This paper develops an automated system to intelligently detect intersection markings and to assess their degradation conditions with existing roadway Geographic information systems (GIS) data and aerial images. The system harnesses emerging artificial intelligence (AI) techniques such as deep learning and multi-task learning to enhance its robustness, accuracy, and computational efficiency. AI models were developed to detect lane-use arrows (85% mean average precision) and crosswalks (89% mean average precision) and to assess the degradation conditions of markings (91% overall accuracy for lane-use arrows and 83% for crosswalks). Data acquisition and computer vision modules developed were integrated and a graphical user interface (GUI) was built for the system. The proposed system can fully automate the processes of marking data collection and condition assessment on a large scale with almost zero cost and short processing time. The developed system has great potential to propel urban science forward by providing fundamental urban infrastructure data for analysis and decision-making across various critical areas such as data-driven safety management and prioritization of infrastructure maintenance.
The effect of ferulic acid on 2-methoxyethanol-induced spermatotoxicity, hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Adeyi Olubisi E. , Somade Oluwatobi T. , Rahman Samson A. , Sobowale Boluwatife T. , Ojeyemi Abimbola E. , Abati Isaiah M. , Olufuwa Olajumoke O. , Olusegun Gloria M. , Soetan Olamide R.
Published: July 2023

Ferulic acid (FA), also known as hydroxycinnamic acid, is a sweet-smelling and natural antioxidant present in the cell walls of plants and bran of cereals, making it a common dietary component. FA possesses diverse medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-arrhythmic, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-thrombotic, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-cardiovascular, neuroprotective, anti-apoptotic, antifibrotic, anti-platelet, anti-aging, anti-melanogenesis, angiogenesis promoting, and skin damage reducing effects. Judging by these outstanding credentials of FA, this study investigated the hepatoprotective, spermato-protective, and hemato-protective effects of FA against 2MEETH-induced spermatotoxicity, hematotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity in rats. After oral administration of 2MEETH for 30 days, the number of abnormal and dead spermatozoa, as well as serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and activity of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), were significantly increased. In contrast, the number of normal and live spermatozoa, sperm motility and concentration, serum total cholesterol level, red blood cell (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), and white blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly decreased compared to the control group. FA treatments did not have any effect on all the sperm and hematological parameters checked, but significantly lowered the serum levels of AST, ALT, and ADH activity compared to rats administered with only 2MEETH. Based on the results, it is concluded that FA may not possess spermato- and hemato-protective effects against 2MEETH-induced spermatotoxicity and hematotoxicity but may possess a hepatoprotective effect in rats.
Lackey on group justified belief and evidence
Authors: Brown Jessica
Published: July 2023

In this paper, I examine one central strand of Lackey’s The Epistemology of Groups, namely her account of group justified belief and the puzzle cases she uses to develop it. Her puzzle cases involve a group of museum guards most of whom justifiably believe a certain claim but do so on different bases. Consideration of these cases leads her to hold that a group justifiably believes p if and only if (1) a significant proportion of its operative members (a) justifiably believe p on (b) bases that are consistent when combined and (2) the total evidence which members of the group do and should have had sufficiently support p. I question her judgement about these cases and condition 2, by examining the nature of group evidence as well as ‘transmission’ principles governing the relationship between the epistemic standing of members of a group and the group itself.
The status of eucalypt products’ trade in western Gurage watersheds and its contribution to construction industry in rural areas and urban centers
Authors: Zerga Belay , Warkineh Bikila , Teketay Demel , Woldetsadik Muluneh
Published: July 2023

A marketing channel is a marketing process that performs several functions by bridging the gap between production and consumption. The analysis of marketing channels provides a systematic knowledge of the flow of goods or services from their production areas to the final market or end-users. The information on eucalypt products’ trade in the study area and the country is vacant prior to this study and it will fill the research gap in this regard. The specific objectives were to assess the trend of eucalypt trade and to examine its contribution to the construction industry in rural areas and urban centers. The study employed the purposive sampling method. The main reason for selecting this sampling method is to select well-experienced eucalypt traders and to avoid the inclusion of non-eucalypt tree farmers and to keep the validity of the representative samples (to cover large villages) Focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and critical; observations are the major tools of data collection. The result shows that eucalypt products' trade (marketing channel) is accelerating in the study area due to two reasons. Firstly, attractive markets demand due to booming constriction in urban centers within and out of the study area. Secondly, asbestos and furniture factories which are found mainly in Addis Ababa are the next destinations. These destinations particularly those located out of the study area purchase products from the third suppliers (their adjacent eucalypt traders). Hence the first suppliers (farmers) sell to the second suppliers (local towns' eucalypt traders) and finally, these agents sell to the third suppliers (major towns' eucalypt traders). Eucalypt products are one of the sources of tax revenue to the Zone next to chat. The tax stations found in various parts of the woredas are busy mainly in controlling and taxing these two products. Farmers benefited significantly by selling poles of various stages to urban–rural areas and centers. To sustain the market facility and thereby benefits from eucalypt trade, eucalypt-related factories should be established in the areas. Households have to direct sales to the end-users to avoid unnecessary price deflation by middlemen.
Lordship, State Formation and Local Authority in Late Medieval and Early Modern England
Authors: Gibbs Spike
Published: July 2023

Providing a new narrative of how local authority and social structures adapted in response to the decline of lordship and the process of state formation, Spike Gibbs uses manorial officeholding – where officials were chosen from among tenants to help run the lord's manorial estate – as a prism through which to examine political and social change in the late medieval and early modern English village. Drawing on micro-studies of previously untapped archival records, the book spans the medieval/early modern divide to examine changes between 1300 and 1650. In doing so, Gibbs demonstrates the vitality of manorial structures across the medieval and early modern era, the active and willing participation of tenants in these frameworks, and the way this created inequalities within communities. This title is part of the Flip it Open Programme and may also be available Open Access. Check our website Cambridge Core for details.
Non-Perturbative Field Theory
Authors: Frishman Yitzhak , Sonnenschein Jacob
Published: July 2023

Providing a new perspective on quantum field theory, this book gives a pedagogical exposition of non-perturbative methods in relativistic quantum field theory and introduces the reader to modern research in theoretical physics. After describing non-perturbative methods in detail, it uses these methods to explore two-dimensional and four-dimensional gauge dynamics. The book concludes with a summary emphasizing the interplay between two- and four-dimensional gauge theories. Aimed at graduate students and researchers, this book covers topics from two-dimensional conformal symmetry, affine Lie algebras, solitons, integrable models, bosonization, and 't Hooft model, to four-dimensional conformal invariance, integrability, large N expansion, Skyrme model, monopoles and instantons. Applications, first to simple field theories and gauge dynamics in two dimensions, and then to gauge theories in four dimensions and quantum chromodynamics in particular, are thoroughly described. Published originally in 2010, this title has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.
Heavy Quark Physics
Authors: Manohar Aneesh V. , Wise Mark B.
Published: July 2023

Understanding the physics of heavy quarks gives physicists a unique opportunity to test the predictions of quantum chromodynamics and the Standard Model. This introductory text begins with a review of the Standard Model, followed by the basics of heavy quark spin-flavor symmetry and its application to the classification of states, decays and fragmentation. Heavy quark effective theory is then developed and applied to the study of hadron masses, form factors, and inclusive decay rates. The authors also discuss the application of chiral perturbation theory to heavy hadrons. Written by two world leading experts, the presentation is clear and original, with problems provided at the end of each chapter. This lucid volume is an ideal introduction to the physics of heavy quarks for graduate students and an authoritative reference for more experienced researchers. First published in 2000, this title has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.
Dynamics of Charged Particles and their Radiation Field
Authors: Spohn Herbert
Published: July 2023

This book provides a self-contained and systematic introduction to classical electron theory and its quantization, non-relativistic quantum electrodynamics. The first half of the book covers the classical theory. It discusses the well-defined Abraham model of extended charges in interaction with the electromagnetic field, and gives a study of the effective dynamics of charges under the condition that, on the scale given by the size of the charge distribution, they are far apart and the applied potentials vary slowly. The second half covers the quantum theory, leading to a coherent presentation of non-relativistic quantum electrodynamics. Topics discussed include non-perturbative properties of the basic Hamiltonian, the structure of resonances, the relaxation to the ground state through emission of photons, the non-perturbative derivation of the g-factor of the electron and the stability of matter. First released in 2004, this title has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.
Introduction to Quantum Fields on a Lattice
Authors: Smit Jan
Published: July 2023

This book provides a concise introduction to quantum fields on a lattice: a precise and non-perturbative definition of quantum field theory obtained by replacing continuous space-time by a discrete set of points on a lattice. The path integral on the lattice is explained in concrete examples using weak and strong coupling expansions. Fundamental concepts such as 'triviality' of Higgs fields and confinement of quarks and gluons into hadrons are described and illustrated with the results of numerical simulations. The book also provides an introduction to chiral symmetry and chiral gauge theory, as well as quantized non-Abelian gauge fields, scaling and universality. Based on the lecture notes of a course given by the author, this book contains many explanatory examples and exercises, and is suitable as a textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses. Originally published in 2002, this title has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.
With the Law or against the Law? A Qualitative Analysis of the Development and Outcomes of Legal Consciousness among Law-Abiding Firearms Owners
Authors: Miner Zachary
Published: July 2023

This article explores the legal consciousness of legal gun owners in upstate New York using a qualitative, grounded theory approach. Respondents’ accounts reveal that their experiences cause them to respect and support the law in certain contexts but feel oppressed by it in other contexts. These perceptions stem from engagement with law, and especially the passage of the New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act of 2013, in which they see legal actors behaving in ways that violate their beliefs about how law is supposed to operate. Respondents believe themselves to be at a legal disadvantage due to distinctive features of New York politics, particularly the belief that New York City residents have an outsized role in statewide politics. These findings offer insights into how gun owners engage with the law and, more generally, into the conditions under which groups feel engaged with—or disconnected from—legal and political processes.
THE INDEPENDENCE OF NATIONAL REGULATORY AUTHORITIES AND THE EUROPEAN UNION ENERGY TRANSITION
Authors: Kaschny Laura , Lavrijssen Saskia
Published: July 2023

National regulatory authorities (NRAs) play a key role in energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. A recent judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union has clarified the requirements of NRA independence under European Union (EU) energy law. The Court classified the exclusive competence of NRAs to fix network tariffs as purely technical assessments of factual realities. This article challenges this assumption and examines whether the technical administrative tasks of NRAs can in fact be separated from political choices. It also explores the delineation of competences between NRAs and national governments at the EU and national levels, as exemplified by the Netherlands and by the proposed Dutch Energy Act.
Reported mortality of Griffon VultureGyps fulvusin central Italy and indications for conservation and management
Authors: Posillico Mario , Costanzo Alessandra , Bottoni Sara , Altea Tiziana , Opramolla Giancarlo , Pascazi Antonello , Panella Marco , Ambrosini Roberto
Published: July 2023

Vultures are long-lived species sensitive to human-caused mortality that has already determined a widespread collapse in Asian and African populations. They provide significant ecosystem services (regulatory and cultural) consuming livestock carcasses and saving greenhouse gas emissions, favouring nutrient recycling, environmental sanitation, and providing financial revenue. Appraising the incidence and causes of mortality could help to improve management and conservation actions. We compiled records of reported mortalities for the reintroduced Griffon VultureGyps fulvuspopulation of the central Apennines in Italy (123 cases, July 1994–December 2020). The average mortality was 4.69 vultures per year (± 1.14 SE), with no significant temporal trend. The peak of mortality events, estimated by harmonic regression analysis, was in March, while the minimum occurred in October. No differences were found among age classes and sex ratio mortality was established at 1.43:1 (M:F,N= 68). Out of 103 (83.7%) vultures which underwent a post-mortem and toxicological screening, 53% were poisoned, mainly by carbamates, and 27% died of unknown causes. Overall, direct or indirect anthropogenic mortality caused 67% of deaths. Even considering an inherent bias associated with reported mortality as to the prevalence of causes of death and estimation of mortality rates, the overwhelming relevance of poisoning highlights that existing anti-poisoning efforts should be refined and incorporated into a coordinated multidisciplinary strategy. A standardised approach, from vulture carcass discovery to post-mortem procedures and toxicological analysis, should be applied to reduce uncertainty in the determination of causes of death, increasing effectiveness in the prosecution of wildlife crimes. As most of the poisoning cases affecting the Griffon Vulture population in the central Apennines likely represent a side (though illegal) effect of retaliatory efforts to defeat livestock predators, effective strategies in reducing human–wildlife conflicts should be applied.
Weight Estimation for Drug Dose Calculations in the Prehospital Setting – A Systematic Review
Authors: Wells Mike , Henry Brendon , Goldstein Lara
Published: July 2023

Background:

Weight estimation is required to enable dose calculations for weight-based drugs administered during emergency care. The accuracy of the estimation will determine the accuracy of the administered dose. This is an important matter of patient safety. The objective of this systematic review was to collect, review, evaluate, and create a synthesis of the current literature focusing on the accuracy of weight estimation in the prehospital environment.

Methods:

This systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines. Studies were identified and included if they were peer reviewed, full length, published in English, and contained original data. Studies utilizing any form of weight estimation methodology in the prehospital setting (in children or adults) were included. Data on the quality of the studies and accuracy of the weight estimation systems were extracted. Common themes were also identified.

Results:

Twenty-five studies met the inclusion criteria, with only nine studies (36.0%) containing useful weight estimation accuracy data. The overall quality of the studies was poor. The Broselow tape and paramedic estimates were the most studied methods of weight estimation, but there was insufficient evidence to support conclusions about accuracy. The major themes identified included the importance of accurate weight estimation and drug dosing as critical matters of patient safety, and the need for training to ensure these processes are performed accurately.

Conclusions:

There were limited robust data identified on the accuracy of different weight estimation methods used in the prehospital setting. Future high-quality clinical research in this area is of critical importance to ensure patient safety in the prehospital environment.
Inter‐Annual Variability in Atmospheric Transport Complicates Estimation of US Methane Emissions Trends
Authors: Feng Leyang , Tavakkoli Sakineh , Jordaan Sarah M. , Andrews Arlyn E. , Benmergui Joshua S. , Waugh Darryn W. , Zhang Mingyang , Gaeta Dylan C. , Miller Scot M.
Published: July 2023

US natural gas production increased by ∼43% between 2005 and 2015, but there is disagreement among existing studies on whether this growth led to increased methane emissions. We evaluate the likely contributions of atmospheric transport to an upward trend in atmospheric methane enhancements during 2007–2015, defined as the contribution of North American emissions to atmospheric observations across the US. We find that interannual variability (IAV) in transport yields an apparent upward trend in enhancements across much of the US during this time and can explain disagreements among existing studies over emissions trends. We further find that enhancements at satellite and in situ monitoring sites are 19% higher during El Niño than La Niña, possibly because air masses spend more time over North America on average during some years. The results show that accurate modeling of IAV in transport is a key prerequisite to quantifying emissions trends.
Small‐Magnitude Seismic Swarms in Central Utah (US): Interactions of Regional Tectonics, Local Structures and Hydrothermal Systems
Authors: Petersen G. M. , Pankow K. L.
Published: July 2023

Swarms in Central Utah are situated in the complex transition between the Basin and Range (BR) province and the Colorado Plateau. Transecting transverse structures, volcanic deposits, and hydrothermal systems complicate the extensional BR horst and graben structures and provide a multitude of plausible triggering mechanisms. Revisiting the catalog of the University of Utah Seismograph Stations (1981–2022), we analyze spatio‐temporal patterns and characteristic features of seismic sequences. Swarms with alternating seismicity rates, bursts, and longer swarms with persistent moment release exhibit a remarkable diversity in temporal evolution. Swarm durations do not scale with cumulative seismic moment: swarms lasting less than 1 day can have similar cumulative seismic moments as month‐long swarms. We observe stationary swarms re‐occurring for years (e.g., Mineral Mountains), as well as singular swarms in low‐seismicity areas (e.g., activating a local structure in Milford, 2021). The swarms show a pronounced heterogeneity in triggering and driving mechanisms, observed in the detailed analysis of exemplary sequences (detections, relocations, moment tensors, waveform‐based clustering, and repeater analysis). The 2022 Sevier Valley sequence activated a BR‐related normal fault, the first resolved fault plane in the valley since 1983. The 2011 Circleville sequence is interpreted as a swarm triggered by mainshock‐aftershock activity characterized by increasing magnitudes, changing rupture mechanisms, and a concentration of highly similar events in the second part of the sequence. By jointly discussing exemplary sequences and catalog statistics, we draw a comprehensive picture of swarm activity and its relation to geothermal and tectonic activity.
β‐arrestin 2 negatively regulates lung cancer progression by inhibiting the TRAF6 signaling axis for NF-κB activation and autophagy induced by TLR3 and TLR4
Authors: Kim Ji Young , Shin Ji Hye , Kim Mi-Jeong , Kang Yeeun , Lee Ji Su , Son Juhee , Jeong Soo-Kyung , Kim Daesik , Kim Duk-Hwan , Chun Eunyoung , Lee Ki-Young
Published: July 2023

β‐arrestin 2 (ARRB2) is functionally implicated in cancer progression via various signaling pathways. However, its role in lung cancer remains unclear. To obtain clinical insight on its function in lung cancer, microarray data from lung tumor tissues (LTTs) and matched lung normal tissues (mLNTs) of primary non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients (n = 37) were utilized. ARRB2 expression levels were markedly decreased in all 37 LTTs compared to those in matched LNTs of NSCLC patients. They were significantly co-related to enrichment gene sets associated with oncogenic and cancer genes. Importantly, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) between three LTTs with highly down-regulated ARRB2 and three LTTs with lowly down-regulated ARRB2 revealed significant enrichments related to toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling and autophagy genes in three LTTs with highly down-regulated ARRB2, suggesting that ARRB2 was negatively involved in TLR-mediated signals for autophagy induction in lung cancer. Biochemical studies for elucidating the molecular mechanism revealed that ARRB2 interacted with TNF receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and Beclin 1 (BECN1), thereby inhibiting the ubiquitination of TRAF6-TAB2 to activate NF-κB and TRAF6-BECN1 for autophagy stimulated by TLR3 and TLR4, suggesting that ARRB2 could inhibit the TRAF6-TAB2 signaling axis for NF-κB activation and TRAF6-BECN1 signaling axis for autophagy in response to TLR3 and TLR4. Notably, ARRB2-knockout (ARRB2KO) lung cancer cells exhibited marked enhancements of cancer migration, invasion, colony formation, and proliferation in response to TLR3 and TLR4 stimulation. Altogether, our current data suggest that ARRB2 can negatively regulate lung cancer progression by inhibiting TLR3- and TLR4-induced autophagy.
WFDC3 inhibits tumor metastasis by promoting the ERβ-mediated transcriptional repression of TGFBR1 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Tianqi , Zhao Min , Peng Lin , Chen Jiangbo , Xing Pu , Gao Pin , Chen Lei , Qiao Xiaowen , Wang Zaozao , Di Jiabo , Qu Hong , Jiang Beihai , Su Xiangqian
Published: July 2023

Estrogen plays a protective role in colorectal cancer (CRC) and primarily functions through estrogen receptor β (ERβ). However, clinical strategies for CRC therapy associated with ERβ are still under investigation. Our discoveries identified WFDC3 as a tumor suppressor that facilitates estrogen-induced inhibition of metastasis through the ERβ/TGFBR1 signaling axis. WFDC3 interacts with ERβ and increases its protein stability by inhibiting its proteasome-dependent degradation. WFDC3 represses TGFBR1 expression through ERβ-mediated transcription. Blocking TGFβ signaling with galunisertib, a drug used in clinical trials that targets TGFBR1, impaired the migration of CRC cells induced by WFDC3 depletion. Moreover, there was clinical significance to WFDC3 in CRC, as CRC patients with high WFDC3 expression in tumor cells had favorable prognoses. Therefore, this work suggests that WFDC3 could be an indicator for therapies targeting the estrogen/ERβ pathway in CRC patients.
Cancer associated fibroblast derived SLIT2 drives gastric cancer cell metastasis by activating NEK9
Authors: Lu Guofang , Du Rui , Dong Jiaqiang , Sun Yi , Zhou Fenli , Feng Fan , Feng Bin , Han Ying , Shang Yulong
Published: July 2023

The secretory properties of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play predominant roles in shaping a pro-metastatic tumor microenvironment. The present study demonstrated that SLIT2, an axon guidance protein, produced by CAFs and promoted gastric cancer (GC) metastasis in two gastric cancer cell lines (AGS and MKN45) by binding to roundabout guidance receptor 1 (ROBO1). Mass-spectrometry analysis revealed that ROBO1 could interact with NEK9, a serine/threonine kinase. And their mutual binding activities were further enhanced by SLIT2. Domain analysis revealed the kinase domain of NEK9 was critical in its interaction with the intracellular domain (ICD) of ROBO1, and it also directly phosphorylated tripartite motif containing 28 (TRIM28) and cortactin (CTTN) in AGS and MKN45 cells. TRIM28 function as a transcriptional elongation factor, which directly facilitate CTTN activation. In addition, Bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation identified transcriptional regulation of STAT3 and NF-κB p100 by TRIM28, and a synergetic transcription of CTTN by STAT3 and NF-κB p100 was also observed in AGS and MKN45. Therefore, CAF-derived SLIT2 increased the expression and phosphorylation levels of CTTN, which induced cytoskeletal reorganization and GC cells metastasis. A simultaneous increase in the expression levels of NEK9, TRIM28 and CTTN was found in metastatic GC lesions compared with paired non-cancerous tissues and primary cancer lesions via IHC and Multiplex IHC. The analysis of the data from a cohort of patients with GC revealed that increased levels of NEK9, TRIM28 and CTTN were associated with a decreased overall survival rate. On the whole, these findings revealed the connections of CAFs and cancer cells through SLIT2/ROBO1 and inflammatory signaling, and the key molecules involved in this process may serve as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for GC.
Earthquake focal mechanisms with distributed acoustic sensing
Authors: Li Jiaxuan , Zhu Weiqiang , Biondi Ettore , Zhan Zhongwen
Published: July 2023

Earthquake focal mechanisms provide critical in-situ insights about the subsurface faulting geometry and stress state. For frequent small earthquakes (magnitude< 3.5), their focal mechanisms are routinely determined using first-arrival polarities picked on the vertical component of seismometers. Nevertheless, their quality is usually limited by the azimuthal coverage of the local seismic network. The emerging distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) technology, which can convert pre-existing telecommunication cables into arrays of strain/strain-rate meters, can potentially fill the azimuthal gap and enhance constraints on the nodal plane orientation through its long sensing range and dense spatial sampling. However, determining first-arrival polarities on DAS is challenging due to its single-component sensing and low signal-to-noise ratio for direct body waves. Here, we present a data-driven method that measures P-wave polarities on a DAS array based on cross-correlations between earthquake pairs. We validate the inferred polarities using the regional network catalog on two DAS arrays, deployed in California and each comprising ~ 5000 channels. We demonstrate that a joint focal mechanism inversion combining conventional and DAS polarity picks improves the accuracy and reduces the uncertainty in the focal plane orientation. Our results highlight the significant potential of integrating DAS with conventional networks for investigating high-resolution earthquake source mechanisms.
Cryo-EM structures of full-length integrin αIIbβ3 in native lipids
Authors: Adair Brian D. , Xiong Jian-Ping , Yeager Mark , Arnaout M. Amin
Published: July 2023

Platelet integrin αIIbβ3 is maintained in a bent inactive state (low affinity to physiologic ligand), but can rapidly switch to a ligand-competent (high-affinity) state in response to intracellular signals (“inside-out” activation). Once bound, ligands drive proadhesive “outside-in” signaling. Anti-αIIbβ3 drugs like eptifibatide can engage the inactive integrin directly, inhibiting thrombosis but inadvertently impairing αIIbβ3 hemostatic functions. Bidirectional αIIbβ3 signaling is mediated by reorganization of the associated αIIb and β3 transmembrane α-helices, but the underlying changes remain poorly defined absent the structure of the full-length receptor. We now report the cryo-EM structures of full-length αIIbβ3 in its apo and eptifibatide-bound states in native cell-membrane nanoparticles at near-atomic resolution. The apo form adopts the bent inactive state but with separated transmembrane α-helices, and a fully accessible ligand-binding site that challenges the model that this site is occluded by the plasma membrane. Bound eptifibatide triggers dramatic conformational changes that may account for impaired hemostasis. These results advance our understanding of integrin structure and function and may guide development of safer inhibitors.
Extending the dynamic range of biomarker quantification through molecular equalization
Authors: Newman Sharon S. , Wilson Brandon D. , Mamerow Daniel , Wollant Benjamin C. , Nyein Hnin , Rosenberg-Hasson Yael , Maecker Holden T. , Eisenstein Michael , Soh H. Tom
Published: July 2023

Precision medicine requires highly scalable methods of multiplexed biomarker quantification that can accurately describe patient physiology. Unfortunately, contemporary molecular detection methods are generally limited to a dynamic range of sensitivity spanning just 3–4 orders of magnitude, whereas the actual physiological dynamic range of the human plasma proteome spans more than 10 orders of magnitude. Current methods rely on sample splitting and differential dilution to compensate for this mismatch, but such measures greatly limit the reproducibility and scalability that can be achieved—in particular, the effects of non-linear dilution can greatly confound the analysis of multiplexed assays. We describe here a two-pronged strategy for equalizing the signal generated by each analyte in a multiplexed panel, thereby enabling simultaneous quantification of targets spanning a wide range of concentrations. We apply our ‘EVROS’ strategy to a proximity ligation assay and demonstrate simultaneous quantification of four analytes present at concentrations spanning from low femtomolar to mid-nanomolar levels. In this initial demonstration, we achieve a dynamic range spanning seven orders of magnitude in a single 5 µl sample of undiluted human serum, highlighting the opportunity to achieve sensitive, accurate detection of diverse analytes in a highly multiplexed fashion.
2D MXenes polar catalysts for multi-renewable energy harvesting applications
Authors: Pan Xiaoyang , Yang Xuhui , Yu Maoqing , Lu Xiaoxiao , Kang Hao , Yang Min-Quan , Qian Qingrong , Zhao Xiaojing , Liang Shijing , Bian Zhenfeng
Published: July 2023

The synchronous harvesting and conversion of multiple renewable energy sources for chemical fuel production and environmental remediation in a single system is a holy grail in sustainable energy technologies. However, it is challenging to develop advanced energy harvesters that satisfy different working mechanisms. Here, we theoretically and experimentally disclose the use of MXene materials as versatile catalysts for multi-energy utilization. Ti3C2TX MXene shows remarkable catalytic performance for organic pollutant decomposition and H2 production. It outperforms most reported catalysts under the stimulation of light, thermal, and mechanical energy. Moreover, the synergistic effects of piezo-thermal and piezo-photothermal catalysis further improve the performance when using Ti3C2TX. A mechanistic study reveals that hydroxyl and superoxide radicals are produced on the Ti3C2TX under diverse energy stimulation. Furthermore, similar multi-functionality is realized in Ti2CTX, V2CTX, and Nb2CTX MXene materials. This work is anticipated to open a new avenue for multisource renewable energy harvesting using MXene materials.
Construction of room temperature phosphorescent materials with ultralong lifetime by in-situ derivation strategy
Authors: Jia Qinglong , Yan Xilong , Wang Bowei , Li Jiayi , Xu Wensheng , Shen Zhuoyao , Bo Changchang , Li Yang , Chen Ligong
Published: July 2023

Although room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials have been widely investigated, it is still a great challenge to improve the performance of RTP materials by promoting triplet exciton generation and stabilization. In this study, an in-situ derivation strategy was proposed to construct efficient RTP materials by in-situ deriving guest molecules and forming a rigid matrix during co-pyrolysis of guest molecules and urea. Characterizations and theoretical calculations revealed that the generated derivatives were beneficial for promoting intersystem crossing (ISC) to produce more triplet excitons, while rigid matrix could effectively suppress the non-radiative transition of triplet excitons. Thus, the in-situ derivation strategy was concluded to simultaneously promote the generation and stabilization of triplet excitons. With this method, the ultralong lifetime of RTP materials could reach up to 5.33 s and polychromatic RTP materials were easily achieved. Moreover, the potential applications of the RTP materials in reprocessing or editable anti-counterfeiting were successfully demonstrated.
Ferroelectric solitons crafted in epitaxial bismuth ferrite superlattices
Authors: Govinden Vivasha , Tong Peiran , Guo Xiangwei , Zhang Qi , Mantri Sukriti , Seyfouri Mohammad Moein , Prokhorenko Sergei , Nahas Yousra , Wu Yongjun , Bellaiche Laurent , Sun Tulai , Tian He , Hong Zijian , Valanoor Nagarajan , Sando Daniel
Published: July 2023

In ferroelectrics, complex interactions among various degrees of freedom enable the condensation of topologically protected polarization textures. Known as ferroelectric solitons, these particle-like structures represent a new class of materials with promise for beyond-CMOS technologies due to their ultrafine size and sensitivity to external stimuli. Such polarization textures have scarcely been demonstrated in multiferroics. Here, we present evidence for ferroelectric solitons in (BiFeO3)/(SrTiO3) superlattices. High-resolution piezoresponse force microscopy and Cs-corrected high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy reveal a zoo of topologies, and polarization displacement mapping of planar specimens reveals center-convergent/divergent topological defects as small as 3 nm. Phase-field simulations verify that some of these structures can be classed as bimerons with a topological charge of ±1, and first-principles-based effective Hamiltonian computations show that the coexistence of such structures can lead to non-integer topological charges, a first observation in a BiFeO3-based system. Our results open new opportunities in multiferroic topotronics.
Affinity and cooperativity modulate ternary complex formation to drive targeted protein degradation
Authors: Wurz Ryan P. , Rui Huan , Dellamaggiore Ken , Ghimire-Rijal Sudipa , Choi Kaylee , Smither Kate , Amegadzie Albert , Chen Ning , Li Xiaofen , Banerjee Abhisek , Chen Qing , Mohl Dane , Vaish Amit
Published: July 2023

Targeted protein degradation via “hijacking” of the ubiquitin-proteasome system using proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) has evolved into a novel therapeutic modality. The design of PROTACs is challenging; multiple steps involved in PROTAC-induced degradation make it difficult to establish coherent structure-activity relationships. Herein, we characterize PROTAC-mediated ternary complex formation and degradation by employing von Hippel–Lindau protein (VHL) recruiting PROTACs for two different target proteins, SMARCA2 and BRD4. Ternary-complex attributes and degradation activity parameters are evaluated by varying components of the PROTAC’s architecture. Ternary complex binding affinity and cooperativity correlates well with degradation potency and initial rates of degradation. Additionally, we develop a ternary-complex structure modeling workflow to calculate the total buried surface area at the interface, which is in agreement with the measured ternary complex binding affinity. Our findings establish a predictive framework to guide the design of potent degraders.