bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of cholinergic system integrity with cognitive decline in GBA1 and LRRK2 mutation carriers
Authors: Schumacher Julia , Ray Nicola , Teipel Stefan , Storch Alexander
Published: July 2024

In Parkinson’s disease (PD), GBA1- and LRRK2-mutations are associated with different clinical phenotypes which might be related to differential involvement of the cholinergic system. We investigated cholinergic integrity in 149 asymptomatic GBA1 and 169 asymptomatic LRRK2 mutation carriers, 112 LRRK2 and 60 GBA1 carriers with PD, 492 idiopathic PD, and 180 controls from the PPMI cohort. Basal forebrain volumes were extracted and white matter pathways from nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) to cortex and from pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) to thalamus were assessed with a free water-corrected DTI model. Bayesian ANCOVAs were conducted for group comparisons and Bayesian linear mixed models to assess associations with cognitive decline. Basal forebrain volumes were increased in asymptomatic GBA1 (Bayes Factor against the null hypothesis (BF10) = 75.2) and asymptomatic LRRK2 (BF10 = 57.0) compared to controls. Basal forebrain volumes were increased in LRRK2- compared to GBA1-PD (BF10 = 14.5) and idiopathic PD (BF10 = 3.6*107), with no difference between idiopathic PD and PD-GBA1 (BF10 = 0.25). Mean diffusivity along the medial NBM pathway was decreased in asymptomatic GBA1 compared to controls (BF10 = 30.3). Over 5 years, idiopathic PD and PD-GBA1 declined across all cognitive domains whereas PD-LRRK2 patients only declined in processing speed. We found an interaction between basal forebrain volume and time in predicting multiple cognitive domains in idiopathic PD and PD-GBA1, but not in PD-LRRK2. While LRRK2 and GBA1 mutations are both associated with increased basal forebrain volume at asymptomatic stages, this increase persists at the symptomatic PD stage only in LRRK2 and might be related to slower cognitive decline in these patients.
Diastereodivergent nucleophile–nucleophile alkene chlorofluorination
Authors: Doobary Sayad , Lacey Andrew J. D. , Sweeting Stephen G. , Coppock Sarah B. , Caldora Henry P. , Poole Darren L. , Lennox Alastair J. J.
Published: July 2024

The selective hetero-dihalogenation of alkenes provides useful building blocks for a broad range of chemical applications. Unlike homo-dihalogenation, selective hetero-dihalogenation reactions, especially fluorohalogenation, are underdeveloped. Current approaches combine an electrophilic halogen source with a nucleophilic halogen source, which necessarily leads to anti-addition, and regioselectivity has only been achieved using highly activated alkenes. Here we describe an alternative, nucleophile–nucleophile approach that adds chloride and fluoride ions over unactivated alkenes in a highly regio-, chemo- and diastereoselective manner. A curious switch in the reaction mechanism was discovered, which triggers a complete reversal of the diastereoselectivity to promote either anti- or syn-addition. The conditions are demonstrated on an array of pharmaceutically relevant compounds, and detailed mechanistic studies reveal the selectivity and the switch between the syn- and anti-diastereomers are based on different active iodanes and which of the two halides adds first.
Climate-driven deoxygenation of northern lakes
Authors: Jansen Joachim , Simpson Gavin L. , Weyhenmeyer Gesa A. , Härkönen Laura H. , Paterson Andrew M. , del Giorgio Paul A. , Prairie Yves T.
Published: July 2024

Oxygen depletion constitutes a major threat to lake ecosystems and the services they provide. Most of the world’s lakes are located >45° N, where accelerated climate warming and elevated carbon loads might severely increase the risk of hypoxia, but this has not been systematically examined. Here analysis of 2.6 million water quality observations from 8,288 lakes shows that between 1960 and 2022, most northern lakes experienced rapid deoxygenation strongly linked to climate-driven prolongation of summer stratification. Oxygen levels deteriorated most in small lakes (<10 ha) owing to their greater volumetric oxygen demand and surface warming rates, while the largest lakes gained oxygen under minimal stratification changes and improved aeration at spring overturns. Seasonal oxygen consumption rates declined, despite widespread browning. Proliferating anoxia enhanced seasonal internal loading of C, P and N but depleted P long-term, indicating that deoxygenation can exhaust redox-sensitive fractions of sediment nutrient reservoirs.
Archaeological evidence of an ethnographically documented Australian Aboriginal ritual dated to the last ice age
Authors: David Bruno , Mullett Russell , Wright Nathan , Stephenson Birgitta , Ash Jeremy , Fresløv Joanna ,   GunaiKurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, Delannoy Jean-Jacques , McDowell Matthew C. , Mialanes Jerome , Petchey Fiona , Arnold Lee J. , Rogers Ashleigh J. , Crouch Joe , Green Helen , Urwin Chris , Matheson Carney D.
Published: July 2024

In societies without writing, ethnographically known rituals have rarely been tracked back archaeologically more than a few hundred years. At the invitation of GunaiKurnai Aboriginal Elders, we undertook archaeological excavations at Cloggs Cave in the foothills of the Australian Alps. In GunaiKurnai Country, caves were not used as residential places during the early colonial period (mid-nineteenth century CE), but as secluded retreats for the performance of rituals by Aboriginal medicine men and women known as ‘mulla-mullung’, as documented by ethnographers. Here we report the discovery of buried 11,000- and 12,000-year-old miniature fireplaces with protruding trimmed wooden artefacts made of Casuarina wood smeared with animal or human fat, matching the configuration and contents of GunaiKurnai ritual installations described in nineteenth-century ethnography. These findings represent 500 generations of cultural transmission of an ethnographically documented ritual practice that dates back to the end of the last ice age and that contains Australia’s oldest known wooden artefacts.
Non-Abelian braiding of Fibonacci anyons with a superconducting processor
Authors: Xu Shibo , Sun Zheng-Zhi , Wang Ke , Li Hekang , Zhu Zitian , Dong Hang , Deng Jinfeng , Zhang Xu , Chen Jiachen , Wu Yaozu , Zhang Chuanyu , Jin Feitong , Zhu Xuhao , Gao Yu , Zhang Aosai , Wang Ning , Zou Yiren , Tan Ziqi , Shen Fanhao , Zhong Jiarun , Bao Zehang , Li Weikang , Jiang Wenjie , Yu Li-Wei , Song Zixuan , Zhang Pengfei , Xiang Liang , Guo Qiujiang , Wang Zhen , Song Chao , Wang H. , Deng Dong-Ling
Published: July 2024

Quantum many-body systems with a non-Abelian topological order can host anyonic quasiparticles. It has been proposed that anyons could be used to encode and manipulate information in a topologically protected manner that is immune to local noise, with quantum gates performed by braiding and fusing anyons. Unfortunately, realizing non-Abelian topologically ordered states is challenging, and it was not until recently that the signatures of non-Abelian statistics were observed through digital quantum simulation approaches. However, not all forms of topological order can be used to realize universal quantum computation. Here we use a superconducting quantum processor to simulate non-Abelian topologically ordered states of the Fibonacci string-net model and demonstrate braidings of Fibonacci anyons featuring universal computational power. We demonstrate the non-trivial topological nature of the quantum states by measuring the topological entanglement entropy. In addition, we create two pairs of Fibonacci anyons and demonstrate their fusion rule and non-Abelian braiding statistics by applying unitary gates on the underlying physical qubits. Our results establish a digital approach to explore non-Abelian topological states and their associated braiding statistics with current noisy intermediate-scale quantum processors.
Empowering deep neural quantum states through efficient optimization
Authors: Chen Ao , Heyl Markus
Published: July 2024

Computing the ground state of interacting quantum matter is a long-standing challenge, especially for complex two-dimensional systems. Recent developments have highlighted the potential of neural quantum states to solve the quantum many-body problem by encoding the many-body wavefunction into artificial neural networks. However, this method has faced the critical limitation that existing optimization algorithms are not suitable for training modern large-scale deep network architectures. Here, we introduce a minimum-step stochastic-reconfiguration optimization algorithm, which allows us to train deep neural quantum states with up to 106 parameters. We demonstrate our method for paradigmatic frustrated spin-1/2 models on square and triangular lattices, for which our trained deep networks approach machine precision and yield improved variational energies compared to existing results. Equipped with our optimization algorithm, we find numerical evidence for gapless quantum-spin-liquid phases in the considered models, an open question to date. We present a method that captures the emergent complexity in quantum many-body problems through the expressive power of large-scale artificial neural networks.
Prevalence and 20-year trends in meditation, yoga, guided imagery and progressive relaxation use among US adults from 2002 to 2022
Authors: Davies Jonathan N. , Faschinger Anna , Galante Julieta , Van Dam Nicholas T.
Published: July 2024

Meditation, yoga, guided imagery, and progressive relaxation are promoted as complementary approaches for health and wellbeing in the United States, but their uptake by different sociodemographic groups is unclear. This study assessed the prevalence and 20 year trends in the use of these practices in US adults between 2002–2022. We examined practice use and associations with sociodemographic and health factors in a population-weighted analysis of n = 134,959 participants across 5 cycles of the National Health Interview Survey. The overall use of meditation (18.3%, 60.53 million), yoga (16.8%, 55.78 million) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (6.7%, 22.22 million) increased significantly from 2002 to 2022. Growth was consistent across most sociodemographic and health strata, however users of ‘Other’ race (comprising 54% Indigenous Americans, Odds Ratios; ORs = 1.28–1.70) and users with moderate (ORs = 1.19–1.29) psychological distress were overrepresented across all practices, and those with severe psychological distress were overrepresented in meditation (OR = 1.33) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (OR = 1.42). Meditation use has accelerated over time for 65 + year olds (OR = 4.22), people not accessing mental health care (OR = 1.39), and less educated (OR = 4.02) groups, potentially reflecting unmet health needs. Health professionals should consider the extensive use of complementary practices in service and treatment planning and consider their risks and benefits.
Compounded wind gusts and maximum temperature via semiparametric copula in the risk assessments of power blackouts and air conditioning demands for major cities in Canada
Authors: Latif Shahid , Ouarda Taha B. M. J.
Published: July 2024

A semiparametric copula joint framework was proposed to model wind gust speed (WGS) and maximum temperature (MT) in Canada, using Gaussian kernel density estimation (GKDE) with parametric copulas. Their joint probability estimates allow for a better understanding of the risk of power blackouts and the demand for air conditioning in the community. The bivariate framework used two extreme sample groups to define extreme pairs at different time lags, i.e., 0 to ± 3 days, annual maximum WGS (AMWGS) and corresponding MT and annual highest MT (AHMT) and corresponding WGS. A thorough model performance comparison indicated that GKDE outperformed the parametric models in defining the marginal distribution of selected univariate series. Significant positive correlations were observed among extreme pairs, except for Calgary and Halifax stations, with inconsistent correlation variations based on selected cities and lag time. Various parametric 2-D copulas were selected to model the dependence structure of bivariate pairs at different time lags for selected stations. AMWGS or AHMT events, when considered independently, would be stressful for all stations due to high estimated quantiles with low univariate RPs. The bivariate events exhibited lower AND-joint RPs with moderate to high design quantiles, indicating a higher risk of power blackouts and heightened air-conditioning demands, which varied inconsistently with time lags across the station. The bivariate AMWGS and corresponding MT events would be stressful in Regina, Quebec City, Ottawa, and Edmonton, while AHMT and corresponding WGS events in Toronto, Regina, and Montreal. Conversely, Vancouver poses a lower risk of joint action of pairs AHMT and corresponding WGS events. These hazard statistics can help in better planning for community well-being during extreme weather.
Learning from virtual experiments to assist users of Small Angle Neutron Scattering in model selection
Authors: Robledo José Ignacio , Frielinghaus Henrich , Willendrup Peter , Lieutenant Klaus
Published: July 2024

In this work, we combine the advantages of virtual Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) experiments carried out by Monte Carlo simulations with the recent advances in computer vision to generate a tool that can assist SANS users in small angle scattering model selection. We generate a dataset of almost 260.000 SANS virtual experiments of the SANS beamline KWS-1 at FRM-II, Germany, intended for Machine Learning purposes. Then, we train a recommendation system based on an ensemble of Convolutional Neural Networks to predict the SANS model from the two-dimensional scattering pattern measured at the position-sensitive detector of the beamline. The results show that the CNNs can learn the model prediction task, and that this recommendation system has a high accuracy in the classification task on 46 different SANS models. We also test the network with real data and explore the outcome. Finally, we discuss the reach of counting with the set of virtual experimental data presented here, and of such a recommendation system in the SANS user data analysis procedure.
Phenotypic characterisation of bovine alveolar macrophages reveals two major subsets with differential expression of CD163
Authors: Randall Emily M. , Sopp Paul , Raper Anna , Dry Inga , Burdon Tom , Hope Jayne C. , Waddell Lindsey A.
Published: July 2024

Bovine alveolar macrophages (AMs) defend the lungs against pathogens such as Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis. However, little is known about the surface molecules expressed by bovine AMs and whether there is heterogeneity within the population. The purpose of this study was to characterise the bovine AM cell surface phenotype using flow cytometry. Bronchoalveolar lavage samples from four different calves were stained with a combination of antibodies against immune cell molecules prior to flow cytometric analysis. To assess the degree of expression, we considered the distribution and relative intensities of stained and unstained cells. We demonstrated that bovine AMs have high expression of CD172a, ADGRE1, CD206, and CD14, moderate expression of CD80, MHC II, CD1b, and CD40, low expression of CX3CR1 and CD86, and little or no expression of CD16 and CD26. Two distinct subsets of bovine AMs were identified based on CD163 expression. Subsequent analysis showed that the CD163+ subset had greater expression of other typical macrophage molecules compared to the CD163- subset, suggesting that these cells may perform different roles during infection. The characterisation of the uninfected bovine AM phenotype will provide a foundation for the examination of M. bovis-infected AMs.
Condensate and superfluid fraction of homogeneous Bose gases in a self-consistent Popov approximation
Authors: Vianello Cesare , Salasnich Luca
Published: July 2024

We study the condensate and superfluid fraction of a homogeneous gas of weakly interacting bosons in three spatial dimensions by adopting a self-consistent Popov approximation, comparing this approach with other theoretical schemes. Differently from the superfluid fraction, we find that at finite temperature the condensate fraction is a non-monotonic function of the interaction strength, presenting a global maximum at a characteristic value of the gas parameter, which grows as the temperature increases. This non-monotonic behavior has not yet been observed, but could be tested with the available experimental setups of ultracold bosonic atoms confined in a box potential. We clearly identify the region of parameter space that is of experimental interest to look for this behavior and provide explicit expressions for the relevant observables. Finite size effects are also discussed within a semiclassical approximation.
Paternal depressive symptoms and factors associated among expectant fathers in a northeastern province of Thailand
Authors: Loekdee Chattarika , Jungjamroonrat Pajaree , Kongsila Tanin , Lundberg Pranee C. , Phoosuwan Nitikorn
Published: July 2024

Globally, depression is a major mental health problem among expectant fathers. Therefore, factors associated with paternal depressive symptoms (PDS) need investigation. This hospital-based cross-sectional study was aimed to investigate the prevalence of and factors associated with PDS among expectant fathers in a northeastern province of Thailand. In the north-eastern province, Sakon Nakhon, 440 expectant fathers from eight hospitals participated in the study by completing a questionnaire related to socio-demographic characteristics, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), psychosocial factors and social support. An EPDS score of at least eleven out of 30 was interpreted as having PDS. Multivariable linear regression analysis was applied with a statistical significance at 0.05, and the coefficient β was presented. In total, 81 expectant fathers (18.4%, 95% confidence interval 14.6–22.3) had PDS, and the mean (standard deviation) of the EPDS score was 6.65 (4.25). Insufficient money (β = − 0.099, p = 0.016), marital adjustment (β = − 0.098, p = 0.027), self-esteem (β = − 0.150, p < 0.001), wife’s stress (β = 0.079, p = 0.049), and expectant father’s stress (β = 0.400, p < 0.001) were factors independently associated with PDS. In conclusion, screening expectant fathers during the pregnancy period of their wives is essential, and factors associated with PDS should not be neglected by healthcare providers. Also, there is need of an intervention program to prevent the symptoms, especially for expectant fathers having insufficient money or having stress.
Serum levels of leptin, ghrelin putative peptide YY-3 in patients with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Podgórski Rafał , Galiniak Sabina , Mazur Artur , Domin Agnieszka , Podgórska Dominika
Published: July 2024

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a severe developmental condition resulting from exposure to alcohol during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to examine the concentrations of hormones involved in appetite regulation—ghrelin, leptin, and putative peptide YY-3 (PYY)—in the serum of individuals with FASD. Additionally, we investigated the relationship between these hormone levels and clinical indicators. We conducted an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on samples collected from 62 FASD patients and 23 individuals without the condition. Our results revealed a significant decrease in leptin levels among FASD patients compared to the control group (5.124 vs. 6.838 ng/mL, p = 0.002). We revealed no statistically significant differences in the levels of other hormones studied (ghrelin and PYY). Comparisons of hormone levels were also conducted in three subgroups: FAS, neurobehavioral disorders associated with prenatal alcohol exposure and FASD risk, as well as by sex. Assignment to FASD subgroups indicated changes only for leptin. Sex had no effect on the levels of hormones. Moreover, the levels of leptin showed a negative correlation with cortisol levels and a positive correlation with BMI and proopiomelanocortin. Alterations in appetite regulation can contribute to the improper development of children with FASD, which might be another factor that should be taken into consideration in the proper treatment of patients.
Membrane topography and the overestimation of protein clustering in single molecule localisation microscopy – identification and correction
Authors: Adler Jeremy , Bernhem Kristoffer , Parmryd Ingela
Published: July 2024

According to single-molecule localisation microscopy almost all plasma membrane proteins are clustered. We demonstrate that clusters can arise from variations in membrane topography where the local density of a randomly distributed membrane molecule to a degree matches the variations in the local amount of membrane. Further, we demonstrate that this false clustering can be differentiated from genuine clustering by using a membrane marker to report on local variations in the amount of membrane. In dual colour live cell single molecule localisation microscopy using the membrane probe DiI alongside either the transferrin receptor or the GPI-anchored protein CD59, we found that pair correlation analysis reported both proteins and DiI as being clustered, as did its derivative pair correlation-photoactivation localisation microscopy and nearest neighbour analyses. After converting the localisations into images and using the DiI image to factor out topography variations, no CD59 clusters were visible, suggesting that the clustering reported by the other methods is an artefact. However, the TfR clusters persisted after topography variations were factored out. We demonstrate that membrane topography variations can make membrane molecules appear clustered and present a straightforward remedy suitable as the first step in the cluster analysis pipeline.
PEX3 promotes regenerative repair after myocardial injury in mice through facilitating plasma membrane localization of ITGB3
Authors: Sun Jia-Teng , Wang Zi-Mu , Zhou Liu-Hua , Yang Tong-Tong , Zhao Di , Bao Yu-Lin , Wang Si-Bo , Gu Ling-Feng , Chen Jia-Wen , Shan Tian-Kai , Wei Tian-Wen , Wang Hao , Wang Qi-Ming , Kong Xiang-Qing , Xie Li-Ping , Gu Ai-Hua , Zhao Yang , Chen Feng , Ji Yong , Cui Yi-Qiang , Wang Lian-Sheng
Published: July 2024

The peroxisome is a versatile organelle that performs diverse metabolic functions. PEX3, a critical regulator of the peroxisome, participates in various biological processes associated with the peroxisome. Whether PEX3 is involved in peroxisome-related redox homeostasis and myocardial regenerative repair remains elusive. We investigate that cardiomyocyte-specific PEX3 knockout (Pex3-KO) results in an imbalance of redox homeostasis and disrupts the endogenous proliferation/development at different times and spatial locations. Using Pex3-KO mice and myocardium-targeted intervention approaches, the effects of PEX3 on myocardial regenerative repair during both physiological and pathological stages are explored. Mechanistically, lipid metabolomics reveals that PEX3 promotes myocardial regenerative repair by affecting plasmalogen metabolism. Further, we find that PEX3-regulated plasmalogen activates the AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway via the plasma membrane localization of ITGB3. Our study indicates that PEX3 may represent a novel therapeutic target for myocardial regenerative repair following injury.
Acoustic spin-controlled orbital rotations in double spiral acoustic beams
Authors: Chen Di-Chao , Liu Xie , Wu Da-Jian , Zhu Xing-Feng , Wei Qi , Cheng Ying , Liu Xiao-Jun
Published: July 2024

Similar to optical spin-orbit interactions (SOIs), acoustic SOIs are anticipated to offer fresh perspectives and capabilities for acoustic manipulation beyond conventional scalar degrees of freedom. However, the acoustic extrinsic SOIs caused by particular properties of the medium were seldom explored. Here, the acoustic extrinsic SOI is observed in a double spiral acoustic beam (DSAB), as evidenced by the rotation of the spatial intensity pattern along the propagation axis. The interaction of the acoustic plane wave with the well-designed artificial flat structure generates two non-paraxial focused acoustic vortices (NFAVs) with different spin angular momentums. The coaxial coupling between them leads to acoustic spin-controlled orbital rotation (SOR). Theoretical formulations, supported by numerical simulations and experimental results, are provided to demonstrate the validity of acoustic SOR. Our work provides new perspectives and capabilities for understanding sound processing, and may open an avenue for the development of spin-orbit acoustics.
A reduction in self-reported confidence accompanies the recall of memories distorted by prototypes
Authors: Kerrén Casper , Zhao Yiming , Griffiths Benjamin J.
Published: July 2024

When we recall a past event, we reconstruct the event based on a combination of episodic details and semantic knowledge (e.g., prototypes). Though prototypes can impair the veracity of recall, it remains unclear whether we are metacognitively aware of the distortions they introduce. To address this, we conducted six experiments in which participants learned object-colour/object-location pairs and subsequently recalled the colour/location when cued with the object. Leveraging unsupervised machine learning algorithms, we extracted participant-specific prototypes and embedded responses in two-dimensional space to quantify prototype-based distortions in individual memory traces. Our findings reveal robust and conceptually replicable evidence to suggest that prototype-based distortion is accompanied by a reduction in self-reported confidence - an implicit measure of metacognitive awareness. Critically, we find evidence to suggest that it is prototype-based distortion of a memory trace that undermines confidence, rather than a lack of confidence biasing reconstruction towards the use of prototypes. Collectively, these findings suggest that we possess metacognitive awareness of distortions embedded in our memories.
The value of convergence research for developing trustworthy AI for weather, climate, and ocean hazards
Authors: McGovern Amy , Demuth Julie , Bostrom Ann , Wirz Christopher D. , Tissot Philippe E. , Cains Mariana G. , Musgrave Kate D.
Published: July 2024

Artificial Intelligence applications are rapidly expanding across weather, climate, and natural hazards. AI can be used to assist with forecasting weather and climate risks, including forecasting both the chance that a hazard will occur and the negative impacts from it, which means AI can help protect lives, property, and livelihoods on a global scale in our changing climate. To ensure that we are achieving this goal, the AI must be developed to be trustworthy, which is a complex and multifaceted undertaking. We present our work from the NSF AI Institute for Research on Trustworthy AI in Weather, Climate, and Coastal Oceanography (AI2ES), where we are taking a convergence research approach. Our work deeply integrates across AI, environmental, and risk communication sciences. This involves collaboration with professional end-users to investigate how they assess the trustworthiness and usefulness of AI methods for forecasting natural hazards. In turn, we use this knowledge to develop AI that is more trustworthy. We discuss how and why end-users may trust or distrust AI methods for multiple natural hazards, including winter weather, tropical cyclones, severe storms, and coastal oceanography.
A proximity proteomics pipeline with improved reproducibility and throughput
Authors: Zhong Xiaofang , Li Qiongyu , Polacco Benjamin J , Patil Trupti , Marley Aaron , Foussard Helene , Khare Prachi , Vartak Rasika , Xu Jiewei , DiBerto Jeffrey F , Roth Bryan L , Eckhardt Manon , von Zastrow Mark , Krogan Nevan J , Hüttenhain Ruth
Published: July 2024

Proximity labeling (PL) via biotinylation coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) captures spatial proteomes in cells. Large-scale processing requires a workflow minimizing hands-on time and enhancing quantitative reproducibility. We introduced a scalable PL pipeline integrating automated enrichment of biotinylated proteins in a 96-well plate format. Combining this with optimized quantitative MS based on data-independent acquisition (DIA), we increased sample throughput and improved protein identification and quantification reproducibility. We applied this pipeline to delineate subcellular proteomes across various compartments. Using the 5HT2A serotonin receptor as a model, we studied temporal changes of proximal interaction networks induced by receptor activation. In addition, we modified the pipeline for reduced sample input to accommodate CRISPR-based gene knockout, assessing dynamics of the 5HT2A network in response to perturbation of selected interactors. This PL approach is universally applicable to PL proteomics using biotinylation-based PL enzymes, enhancing throughput and reproducibility of standard protocols.
Bone metabolism – an underappreciated player
Authors: Choi In Ah , Umemoto Akio , Mizuno Masataka , Park-Min Kyung-Hyun
Published: July 2024

Bone is constantly being remodeled, and this process is orchestrated by a dynamic crosstalk of bone cells, including osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and osteocytes. Recent evidence suggests that cellular metabolism plays a crucial role in the differentiation and function of bone cells and facilitates the adaptation of bone cells to changes in the bone microenvironment. Moreover, bone affects whole-body energy metabolism. However, it is not yet completely understood how different cells in bone coordinate metabolic processes under physiological conditions, and how altered metabolic processes in bone cells contribute to pathological conditions where the balance among bone cells is disrupted. Therefore, gaining a better understanding of the distinct metabolic requirements of bone cells can provide crucial insights into the dysfunction of bone cells in pathological conditions and can be used to identify new therapeutic approaches to treat bone diseases. Here, we discuss recent advances in understanding metabolic reprogramming in bone cells.
Serum and CSF metabolomics analysis shows Mediterranean Ketogenic Diet mitigates risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Schweickart Annalise , Batra Richa , Neth Bryan J. , Martino Cameron , Shenhav Liat , Zhang Anru R. , Shi Pixu , Karu Naama , Huynh Kevin , Meikle Peter J. , Schimmel Leyla , Dilmore Amanda Hazel , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Blach Colette , Dorrestein Pieter C. , Knight Rob ,   Alzheimer’s Gut Microbiome Project Consortium, Craft Suzanne , Kaddurah-Daouk Rima , Krumsiek Jan
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is influenced by a variety of modifiable risk factors, including a person’s dietary habits. While the ketogenic diet (KD) holds promise in reducing metabolic risks and potentially affecting AD progression, only a few studies have explored KD’s metabolic impact, especially on blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Our study involved participants at risk for AD, either cognitively normal or with mild cognitive impairment. The participants consumed both a modified Mediterranean Ketogenic Diet (MMKD) and the American Heart Association diet (AHAD) for 6 weeks each, separated by a 6-week washout period. We employed nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics to profile serum and CSF and metagenomics profiling on fecal samples. While the AHAD induced no notable metabolic changes, MMKD led to significant alterations in both serum and CSF. These changes included improved modifiable risk factors, like increased HDL-C and reduced BMI, reversed serum metabolic disturbances linked to AD such as a microbiome-mediated increase in valine levels, and a reduction in systemic inflammation. Additionally, the MMKD was linked to increased amino acid levels in the CSF, a breakdown of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and decreased valine levels. Importantly, we observed a strong correlation between metabolic changes in the CSF and serum, suggesting a systemic regulation of metabolism. Our findings highlight that MMKD can improve AD-related risk factors, reverse some metabolic disturbances associated with AD, and align metabolic changes across the blood-CSF barrier.
Evaluation of Drug Reproductive Toxicity and the Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Wu Sixian , Shang Lijun , Xu Wenming
Published: July 2024

The potential negative effects of drugs on male fertility are of increasing concern. The effects of drugs on male fertility can be divided into three categories: hormonal effects, sexual dysfunction, and poor semen quality. The negative effect of drugs on male germ and somatic cells may ultimately affect fertility or the ability to produce healthy offspring. In order to enable patients to have offspring while minimizing adverse drug reactions, it is important to obtain optimal information on the relative toxicity of drugs. It is also necessary to explain the mechanism of drug toxicity in drug-induced infertility. Therefore, this chapter will describe the mechanisms involved in male germ cell and somatic cell toxicity and summarize the current advanced techniques for assessing drug toxicity and analysing the mechanism of drug toxicity.
AnIn VitroMale Germ Cell Assay and Its Application for Detecting Phase-specificity of Genotoxins
Authors: Habas Khaled , Brinkworth Martin H. , Anderson Diana
Published: July 2024

Germline mutations resulting from exposure to genotoxic and mutagenic agents are of great concern because they not only affect the exposed generation but may also be transmitted to the offspring and potentially affect future generations. This can result in impaired fertility as a result of embryonic or heritable disease or abnormalities in the offspring. The investigation of reproductive toxicants represents one of the major current challenges in toxicology because of the great number of compounds to be investigated and the difficulty of testing male germ cells at different phases of their development. This chapter will provide information on reproductive endpoints that can indicate delivery of the agents to male germ cells and cytotoxic effects that may occur following exposure to genotoxic agents. Investigating aspects such as further characterisation of germ cell genotoxicity and DNA adducts could provide more information to elucidate the mode of genotoxic action of carcinogenic chemicals.
The Long Shadow of Sperm DNA Damage: A Hypothesis
Authors: Joffe Michael
Published: July 2024

Impaired semen quality, testicular cancer, infertility in both sexes and aneuploidies are all major health problems; they tend to cluster in individuals and families. I hypothesize a pathogenesis that underlies some cases of these conditions: environmentally caused germ cell genetic damage that becomes transgenerational. It starts with spermatid DNA damage that undergoes faulty repair after fertilization. The resulting structural change becomes disruptive at meiosis because of cell cycle delay due to unequal lengths of the maternal and paternal chromosomes. This can lead to spindle abnormality and centrosome amplification, distorted cellular architecture, and possible chromosome missegregation – severely abnormal gametes. Consequences include embryonic/fetal death, or survival with damaged genetic apparatus, which may include, e.g., trisomy. Differentiation may be blocked, leading to germ cell testicular cancer. In the female line, early menopause may result. If the individual has progeny, they are likely to be similarly affected, but more severely – the inherited form of the abnormality. This pathogenesis explains some infertility, low semen quality, pregnancy loss, aneuploidy, germ cell carcinogenesis and early menopause, and their association within individuals and families, also the maternal age association with aneuploidy. Possible etiological factors are discussed, notably heat, which is highly damaging to spermatid DNA.
Development of an ion gel-based CO2 separation membrane composed of Pebax 1657 and a CO2-philic ionic liquid
Authors: Muroga Jo , Kamio Eiji , Matsuoka Atsushi , Nakagawa Keizo , Yoshioka Tomohisa , Matsuyama Hideto
Published: July 2024

Development of a tough gel membrane composed of Pebax 1657 and [Emim][C(CN)3] (Pebax ion gel membrane) with great CO2 separation performance.
Identification and quantification of serum KIN17 protein based on ELISA assay and exploring its clinical diagnostic value in liver cancer
Authors: Su Ruiqi , Chu Lok Ting , Chen Zhenkai , Lin Xiaocong , Peng Minghui , Huang Xueran , Xiao Xiangyan , Zeng Tao
Published: July 2024

In this work, we confirmed that the presence of KIN17 protein in serum and developed a quantitative analysis method. It showed that KIN17 protein is highly expressed in liver cancer serum and is expected to become a new serological tumor marker.
White-light-emitting diode (LED)-promoted one-pot synthesis of 1,2-dihydropyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazoles in the presence of a new spiky magnetic nanocatalyst and their anthelmintic studies
Authors: Kharmawlong George Kupar , Chettri Bhusan , Rymbai Ridashisha , Nongrum Ridaphun , Yadav Arun Kumar , Bhan Surya , Nongkhlaw Rishanlang
Published: July 2024

Synthesis of benzimidazoles derivatives from an aromatic aldehyde, active methylene compounds, and 2-aminobenzimidazole under white LED irradiation.
Criteria for distinguishing heterogeneous from homogeneous conditions for aromatic diisocyanates in water
Authors: Plehiers Patrick M. , Pirkl Hans-Georg , Ward Lauren , Bögi Christian
Published: July 2024

Environmental fate and toxicity testing typically requires knowledge of the water solubility of the test substances.
Ultrathin defective heterojunction for visible light NO removal: correlation between microstructure and reaction mechanisms
Authors: Hailili Reshalaiti , Li Zelong , Lu Xu , Sheng Hua , Bahnemann Detlef W. , Zhao Jincai
Published: July 2024

Defective BiVO4–BiOCl heterojunctions promoted the visible light NO (∼ppb) removal and inhibited the toxic intermediate (NO2) generation due to strong built-in interfacial electric field contact at the junction interface.
Total mechano-synthesis of 2-cyclopropyl-4-(4-fluorophenyl)quinoline-3-acrylaldehyde—a pivotal intermediate of pitavastatin
Authors: Yu Jingbo , Zhang Yanhua , Zheng Zehao , Su Weike
Published: July 2024

A new three-step mechano-synthesis method starts with 4-bromoquinoline, uses Suzuki–Miyaura, Minisci C–H alkylation, and oxidation Heck coupling reactions, leading to rapid and eco-friendly synthesis of the key Pitavastatin intermediate.
Accelerating the electron-transfer of nitrogen electro-fixation through assembling Fe nanoparticles into Fe nanochains
Authors: Wang Rongkang , Lu Jingyu , Li Xu , Song Chunyu
Published: July 2024

A universal method with the assistance of magnetic stirring that can assemble Fe nanoparticles into nanochains is developed, which resulting in an enhanced NH3 yield and faradaic efficiency at −0.4 V vs. RHE during the electrochemical reduction of N2.
Operando time and space-resolved liquid-phase diagnostics reveal the plasma selective synthesis of nanographenes
Authors: Kurniawan Darwin , Caielli Francesca , Thyagajaran Karthik , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Chiang Wei-Hung , Pai David Z.
Published: July 2024

In situ optical emission, absorbance, and photoluminescence spectroscopies, and particle image velocimetry are applied to a plasma electrochemical reactor for operando time and space-resolved measurements of NGQD growth from chitosan.
Accessing diverse bicyclic peptide conformations using 1,2,3-TBMB as a linker
Authors: Krishna Sudhakar Haritha , Yau Jackie Tsz Ki , Alcock Lisa J. , Lau Yu Heng
Published: July 2024

The 1,2,3-TBMB linker affords efficient conversion to bicyclic peptides with unconventional conformations using standard conditions applicable to drug discovery screening.
A HMPA–H2O mediated oxygenative carbocyclization of 2-alkynylphenyl-substituted p-quinone methides to indenones
Authors: Fatma Shaheen , Ahmad Feroz , Pankhade Yogesh A. , Ranga Pavit K. , Vijaya Anand Ramasamy
Published: July 2024

A HMPA–water mediated protocol to access substituted-indenones through an oxygenative carbocyclization of 2-alkynylphenyl-substituted p-quinone methides has been developed under metal- and base-free conditions.
Isomers of terephthalate derivatives as anodes for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Tang Mei , Jia Kangkang , Ma Guandie , Wu Fei , Xiang Yunjie , Li Qiulin , Chen Qianwei , Luo Yuansheng , Xu Maowen , Bao Shu-Juan
Published: July 2024

Two isomers of terephthalate derivatives were prepared and the terephthalic acid positioned at meta-positions exhibits high capacity and good stability as anode materials for sodium-ion batteries.
Anticancer profile of coumarin 6-based Ir(iii) photocatalysts under normoxia and hypoxia by ROS generation and NADH oxidation
Authors: Yadav Ashish Kumar , Upadhyay Aarti , Bera Arpan , Kushwaha Rajesh , Mandal Arif Ali , Acharjee Sagar , Kunwar Amit , Banerjee Samya
Published: July 2024

Coumarin 6 appended Ir(iii) photocatalysts exhibited light activated anticancer effects against cancer cells via mitochondrial depolarization driven apoptosis by inducing type-I (NADH oxidation) and type-II (ROS generation) mechanisms.
Synthesis of N-triflyl aldimines catalyzed by imino-λ3-iodane
Authors: Sunagawa Shun , Tezuka Yoko , Tsubouchi Akira , Yoshimura Akira , Saito Akio
Published: July 2024

Imino-λ3-iodane, conventionally used as a nitrene donor in nitrogen functionalization, is involved in dehydrative condensation as an acid–base cooperative catalyst.
Bioinspired chitosan based functionalization of biomedical implant surfaces for enhanced hemocompatibility, antioxidation and anticoagulation potential: an in silico and in vitro study
Authors: Hassan Sadia , Bilal Namra , Khan Tooba Javaid , Ali Murtaza Najabat , Ghafoor Bakhtawar , Saif Khawaja Usman
Published: July 2024

Mitigating thrombosis and adverse reactions in biomedical implants necessitates exploration of natural biomaterials with enhanced hemocompatibility and anticoagulation potential including natural drug-loaded chitosan based matrixes.
Porphyrin-based porous organic polymers synthesized using the Alder–Longo method: the most traditional synthetic strategy with exceptional capacity
Authors: Liu Qian , Pan Wen , Zhang Junshan , Yang Mei , Chen Qin , Liu Feng , Li Juan , Wei Songrui , Zhu Guoji
Published: July 2024

Porphyrin-based POPs obtained via the Alder–Longo method are reviewed in this work from the aspects of their design, preparation, and applications as well as the challenges and opportunities for their future development.
Back to the future with emerging iron technologies
Authors: Oarga-Mulec Andreea , Luin Uroš , Valant Matjaz
Published: July 2024

This overview highlights iron's potential in low-carbon energy, including metal fuel combustion, iron-based batteries, and energy-carrier cycles. It also covers sustainable production and recycling methods aimed at minimizing environmental impact.
Heterocycles as supramolecular handles for crystal engineering: a case study with 7-(diethylamino)coumarin derivatives
Authors: Castro Geraldyne , Romero-Ávila Margarita , Farfán Norberto , Arcos-Ramos Rafael , Maldonado-Domínguez Mauricio
Published: July 2024

The 7-(diethylamino)coumarin core encodes in its structure the supramolecular information needed for its predictable self-assembly in organic molecular solids.
In situ electrosynthesis of quinone-based redox-active molecules coupling with high-purity hydrogen production
Authors: Ji Hyunjoon , Zhao Ziming , Zhang Changkun , Li Xianfeng
Published: July 2024

The asymmetric electrolysis cell concept was introduced to simultaneously produce quinone-based redox-active molecules and high-purity hydrogen gas.
Electrically mediated self-assembly and manipulation of drops at an interface
Authors: Kaneelil Paul R. , de Souza J. Pedro , Turk Günther , Pahlavan Amir A. , Stone Howard A.
Published: July 2024

Water drops floating at an interface can be self-assembled and controlled using electrostatic effects. Uncharged drops can be moved around as desired, while charged drops exhibit spontaneous directed motion.
Non-conjugated electrochromic supercapacitors with atom-economic arylamine-based AB2-polyamides
Authors: Shao Yu-Jen , Cho Yi-Ju , Li Hou-Lin , Hu Chien-Chieh , Liou Guey-Sheng
Published: July 2024

A highly atom-economic AB2-type hyperbranched polyamide, HPA-TPA, was judiciously designed and prepared. HPA-TPA showed remarkable electrochromic behaviours and charge–discharge characteristics with the aid of the hyperbranched architecture.
A study of interacting galaxies from the Arp-Madore catalog
Authors: Cezar Pedro H. , Pastoriza Miriani G. , Riffel Rogério , Ramos Almeida Cristina , Krabbe Angela C. , Rembold Sandro B.
Published: July 2024

We present Gemini Multi-Object Spectrograph (GMOS) spectroscopic observations of 95 galaxies from the Arp & Madore (1987) catalog of peculiar galaxies. These galaxies have been selected because they appear to be in pairs and small groups. These observations have enabled us to confirm that 60 galaxies are indeed interacting systems. For the confirmed interacting sample, we have built a matched control sample of isolated galaxies. We present an analysis of the stellar populations and nuclear activity in the interacting galaxies and compare them with the isolated galaxies. We find a median light (mass) fraction of 55% (10%) in the interacting galaxies coming from stellar populations younger than 2 Gyr and 28% (3%) in the case of the isolated galaxies. More than half of the interacting galaxies are dominated by this young stellar population, while in the isolated ones most of the light comes from older stellar populations. We used a combination of diagnostic diagrams (BPTs and WHAN) to classify the main ionization mechanisms of the gas. The interacting galaxies in our sample consistently show a higher fraction of active galactic nuclei (AGN) relative to the control sample, which ranges between 1.6 and 4 depending on the combination of diagnostic diagrams employed to classify the galaxies and the number of galaxies considered. Our study provides further observational evidence that interactions drive star formation and nuclear activity in galaxies and can have a significant impact on galaxy evolution.
Spectral evolution of RX J0440.9+4431 during the 2022–2023 giant outburst observed with Insight-HXMT
Authors: Li Panping P. , Becker Peter A. , Tao Lian
Published: July 2024

In 2022–2023, the Be/X-ray binary X-ray pulsar RX J0440.9+4431 underwent a Type II giant outburst, reaching a peak luminosity of LX ∼ × 1037 erg s−1. In this work, we utilized Insight-HXMT data to analyze the spectral evolution of RX J0440.9+4431 during the giant outburst. By analyzing the variation in the X-ray spectrum during the outburst using standard phenomenological models, we find that as the luminosity approaches the critical luminosity, the spectrum becomes flatter, with the photon enhancement predominantly concentrated around ∼2 keV and 20–40 keV. The same behavior has also been noted in Type II outbursts from other sources. While the phenomenological models provide good fits to the spectrum, it is sometimes difficult to gain insight into details of the fundamental accretion physics using this approach. Hence, we also analyzed spectra obtained during high and low phases of the outburst using a new, recently developed physics-based theoretical model that allows us to study the variations in the physical parameters during the outburst, such as the temperature, density, and magnetic field strength. Application of the theoretical model reveals that the observed spectrum is dominated by Comptonized bremsstrahlung emission emitted from the column walls in both the high and low states. We show that the spectral flattening observed at high luminosities results from a decrease in the electron temperature, combined with a compactification of the emission zone, which reduces the efficiency of bulk Comptonization. We also demonstrate that when the source is at maximum luminosity, the spectrum tends to harden around the peak of the pulse profile, and we discuss possible theoretical explanations for this behavior. We argue that the totality of the behavior in this source can be explained if the accretion column is in a quasi-critical state at the time of maximum luminosity during the outburst.