bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life-history stage influences immune investment and oxidative stress in response to environmental heterogeneity in Antarctic fur seals
Authors: Nagel Rebecca , Pohle Katja , Jordán Lilla , Tuponja Iva , Stainfield Claire , Toscani Camille , Fox‑Clarke Cameron , Costantini David , Czirják Gábor Á. , Forcada Jaume , Hoffman Joseph I.
Published: July 2024

Immune defenses are crucial for survival but costly to develop and maintain. Increased immune investment is therefore hypothesized to trade-off with other life-history traits. Here, we examined innate and adaptive immune responses to environmental heterogeneity in wild Antarctic fur seals. In a fully crossed, repeated measures design, we sampled 100 pups and their mothers from colonies of contrasting density during seasons of contrasting food availability. Biometric and cortisol data as well as blood for the analysis of 13 immune and oxidative status markers were collected at two key life-history stages. We show that immune responses of pups are more responsive than adults to variation in food availability, but not population density, and are modulated by cortisol and condition. Immune investment is associated with different oxidative status markers in pups and mothers. Our results suggest that early life stages show greater sensitivity to extrinsic and intrinsic effectors, and that immunity may be a strong target for natural selection even in low-pathogen environments such as Antarctica.
Implementing EU energy and climate governance: Germany and Sweden as frontrunners?
Authors: Lindberg Marie Byskov , Wettestad Jørgen
Published: July 2024

A core element in the EU’s Governance regulation (Regulation 2018/1999) is the regular production of National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs). The process involves a dialog with the European Commission intended to lead to changed and improved plans. This new policy mechanism has been characterised as ‘harder soft governance’. Although member states are not obliged to specify binding targets for renewables and energy efficiency, they must report their contribution to fulfilling the overall European target. Furthermore, they must develop a plan for how to reach these contributions (the NECP). In this article we discuss NECP implementation in the first round of establishing NECPs in two traditional climate-policy frontrunners in the EU: Germany and Sweden. A key finding is that both countries did not perceive the NECP process as particularly important for national policy-making. Central targets and measures were mainly based on policies developed independently of the Governance Regulation. However, interaction with the Commission was more important for ‘reluctant’ Sweden than ‘Governance supporter’ Germany. Our study shows that both countries eventually produced the required contributions and plans, lending support to the argument that this new regulation has some ‘harder soft governance’ elements that will influence member states.
Is parity pricing enough? A critical analysis of parity pricing and the case for additional strategies
Authors: Howe Mecca , Palde Laxmi Prasanna R. , Leuthart Kassandra R. , Monroe Nicholas J. , Allen Oliver M. , Czebotar Kamila , Lich Kathleen M. , Babb Angela M. , Knudsen Daniel C.
Published: July 2024

Producers in the U.S., particularly small-scale farmers and specialty crop growers, are unable to maintain their livelihoods with farming alone. This issue is convoluted by low farm gate prices stemming from the unequal distribution of market share and political support within the U.S. food supply chain. As a result, many farm activists and scholars have recommended a revitalization of parity pricing within U.S. policy. Parity pricing once served to set price floors considered to represent “fair” farm gate prices determined by the farm gate price and purchasing power of commodities during the parity period of 1910–1914. In this paper, we evaluate whether parity did exist during the set period of 1910–1914, showing farm incomes and non-farm incomes were not significantly different from one another during the parity period. We then explore the extent to which parity prices correspond to farm-gate prices, transfer terminal prices, and retail prices for a select group of twelve specialty crops. We show that farm gate prices are significantly lower than parity prices, do not necessarily translate into low prices for consumers, and do not consistently correlate with production costs. Lastly, we display the temporal correspondence between the end of parity pricing and declines in farm income. Our analysis contributes important evidence of the inequalities within production, payment, and pricing structures of specialty crops in the U.S. As such, we provide a critique of parity pricing arguing that parity pricing alone will not be sufficient to solve the complex and deeply rooted issues underpinning low farm gate prices and injustices within the U.S. food system. We conclude with a discussion of the impacts of low farm gate prices and areas for policy interventions.
Potential impact of climate change on Nearctic leafhopper distribution and richness in North America
Authors: Santos Abraão Almeida , Jacques Jordanne , Pérez-López Edel
Published: July 2024

Climate change significantly contributes to shifts in the geographical range of pests and diseases. Leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), known vectors of phytoplasmas pathogens, are linked to the transmission of more than 600 diseases affecting a thousand plant species worldwide. Despite this, the potential effects of climate change on leafhopper vectors of phytoplasmas remain a critical knowledge gap. To address this gap, our study investigated the potential impact of climate change on 14 species of Nearctic leafhoppers previously associated with phytoplasma-related diseases. Using the MaxEnt species distribution algorithm and other ecological niche modeling techniques, we assessed (i) the expected species richness under current climate conditions and four future scenarios and (ii) the environmental niche similarity among these species across these scenarios. Our projections suggest that the eastern region of North America holds the potential for the highest species richness, a trend expected to persist across all future scenarios, gradually expanding eastward. Notably, our findings indicate the increasing suitability of northern Canada for more species. Network analysis further revealed a remarkable similarity in environmental niches among most leafhopper species. Moreover, across the four future scenarios, there is a tendency for an increase in this similarity. Altogether, our study underscores the potential persistent presence of Nearctic leafhoppers in their current habitats while pointing to a shift toward northern North America in future scenarios. These findings have significant implications for sustainable pest management practices, prompting a necessary discussion on strategies to mitigate climate change and pest migration’s impact on agricultural systems.
Male Infertility Mediated by Gene Mutations
Authors: Guo Chongye
Published: July 2024

Impairment of spermatogenesis can result from cell-cycle arrest or death of germ cells and potentially occur at any stage of life. Testis maldescensus, fluctuations of hormonal support and a wide range of exogenous factors may contribute to this impairment, likely resulting in a significant reduction in the number of sperm in the ejaculate (oligozoospermia) or azoospermia (the absence of sperm from semen). The testis pathological processes that result in the ablation of a particular cell type will distort the apparent relative expression levels of genes expressed in the testis, given that different cell types have different profiles of gene expression. Known genetic causes of male infertility include chromosome diseases, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutation, single-gene disease, and multifactor disease. The number of genetic abnormalities found in semen and etiological categories is increasing. Genetic research has made great progress in elucidating the causes of male infertility. Based on the support of high-throughput sequencing technology, more than 2000 genes were found to have mutations or abnormal expression related to spermatogenesis. This has made great contributions to diagnostic value, clinical decision-making, and appropriate genetic counselling. Therefore, this chapter will focus on the influence of gene mutations on male infertility from the perspective of genetics.
Neurovascular Supply of the Prostate and Corpora Cavernosa Effects on Erectile Dysfunction and Urinary Incontinence After Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Alanazi Ghazi , Algarni Mohammed S. M. , Gillingwater Thomas H. , Alashkham Abduelmenem
Published: July 2024

Radical prostatectomy is typically the main treatment option for patients with prostate cancer. Despite advances in surgical techniques and neurovascular preservation, the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence in patients post-radical prostatectomy remains varied. Consequently, it is essential to identify and understand the distribution and pathways of periprostatic neurovascular structures to limit complications following radical prostatectomy. This review provides an overview of the literature investigating the neurovascular supply of the prostate and corpora cavernosa, particularly in relation to erectile dysfunction and urine incontinence. We screened publications listed on the PubMed database, incorporating all articles published in English that investigated humans. A wide range of uncertainty and complexity was revealed concerning the blood supply and innervation of the prostate and corpora cavernosa, with regard to their origin, course, branches, and region of insertion. Given that the preservation of neurovascular structures is beneficial for improving outcomes following radical prostatectomy, the lack of a definitive consensus of their anatomy makes it difficult to propose a simple approach to improve surgical procedures. Our findings suggest that further work exploring this important aspect of clinically relevant human anatomy is required.
Paternal Influence on Developmental Toxicity Following Administration of Therapeutic Drugs and Direct Impact on Developmental Toxicity
Authors: dos Santos Borges Cibele , Kacew Sam
Published: July 2024

In the last few decades, a new concept of developmental origins of health and disease was introduced based upon the paternal contribution to developmental toxicity. This was attributed to the first reports on the incidence of leukemia in children whose parents worked at Sellafield Nuclear Plant in West Cumbria, England, which created awareness to the scientific community to the possibility of male-mediated developmental toxicity. Thus, animal studies commenced, which demonstrated that genetic damage to paternal DNA following exposure to radiation or chemical products (mutagens) may be transmitted to the offspring. Several studies highlighted the paternal impact on the development of toxicity following exposure to endocrine disruptors, alcohol, nicotine, radiation as well as antineoplastic drugs, but other factors including environmental factors, social factors, and chemicals that men are also exposed to might also directly influence sperm quality, resulting in DNA damage and consequently affecting the development of offspring, which have not yet received much attention. In this chapter, paternal exposure to various risk factors including obesity, stress, anxiety, and medications used to treat several conditions, such as anxiolytics, antidepressants, glucocorticoids, anorexigens, antirheumatics, antiepileptics and analgesic drugs, is described with associated potential impact on the development of offspring toxicity. Even though many studies still need to be carried out, it is known that spermatozoa might constitute one of the crucial keys in the development of health or disease of the offspring.
Inorganic and Nanoadditives for Biodiesel
Authors: Morshedy Asmaa S. , Guibal Eric
Published: June 2024

The main factors driving research into the creation and application of renewable energy sources are concerns about climate change, rising oil prices, and the depletion of fossil fuel resources. Because the transportation industry is the largest emitter of pollutants into the atmosphere, biofuel is one of the renewable energy sources used by most nations. Because it is an environmentally friendly renewable resource with the potential to lower greenhouse gas emissions, biodiesel, defined as “a substitute for or an additive to diesel fuel that is generated from the oils and fats of plants and animals”, is seen as an attractive replacement for petroleum-based diesel fuel. Because it produces biodiesel more quickly than acid catalysis, heterogeneous base catalysis is favored. High surface area improves the physicochemical characteristics of fuel and reduces the emission of dangerous pollutants. The performance of an engine is enhanced with the addition of nanoadditives. Numerous nanoadditives and the methods used to prepare them are described in this chapter. Examples of nanoadditives include metal-based (metals, metal oxides, and metal alloys), antioxidants, oxygenated additives, and cetane number enhancers. Analyses are also presented of the performance and emission characteristics. Comprehensive studies on the characteristics of emissions and the combustion behaviour of diesel engines powered by biodiesel and blends, including nanoadditives, are also included. Additionally, consideration is given to the characteristics, efficiency, and emissions of diesel engines running on biodiesel and blends, including nanoadditives.
Metal- and additive-free β-C(sp2)–H decarboxylative alkylsulfonylation of enamides from phenyliodine(iii) dicarboxylates and sulfur dioxide
Authors: Li Wenyan , Wang Cenxin , Zhu Tonghao , Liu Gang , Wu Jie
Published: June 2024

A green process for the direct C(sp2)–H decarboxylative alkylsulfonylation of enamides under metal- and additive-free conditions is reported.
Separation and nucleation kinetics of l-menthol polymorph through a swift cooling crystallization process
Authors: Murugan Kowsalya , Karuppannan Srinivasan
Published: June 2024

The form-II polymorph of l-menthol was successfully isolated by a novel swift cooling crystallization process with various supersaturation levels using a saturated aqueous solution and wholly inhibited form-I of l-menthol.
Periodic DFT calculations to compute the attributes of a quantum material: honeycomb ruthenium trichloride
Authors: Koval Ashlyn M. , Jenness Glen R. , Schutt Timothy C. , Kosgei Gilbert K. , Fernando P. U. Ashvin I. , Shukla Manoj K.
Published: June 2024

Electronic and magnetic properties of α-RuCl3 were computed using various periodic density functional theory parameters (e.g. functionals, basis sets, Hubbard corrections, etc.) to determine the effect of these parameters on the computed properties.
π-Conjugation effects on excited-state intermolecular proton-transfer reactions of anthracene–urea derivatives in the presence of acetate anions
Authors: Tachibanaki Atsushi , Matsui Toru , Nishimura Yoshinobu
Published: June 2024

Emissive urea compounds with varying π-conjugation lengths were studied for their effect on excited-state intermolecular proton-transfer reactions with anions. Extended π-conjugation increases the ESPT rate constants and promotes tautomer formation.
Preparation of seven-coordinated hypervalent tin(iv)-fused azobenzene and applications for stimuli-responsive π-conjugated polymer films
Authors: Gon Masayuki , Morisaki Yusuke , Tanimura Kazuya , Tanaka Kazuo
Published: June 2024

Seven-coordinated hypervalent tin(iv) compounds with large binding constants were prepared and applied for vapochromic and thermochromic π-conjugated polymer films.
Precise control of process parameters for >23% efficiency perovskite solar cells in ambient air using an automated device acceleration platform
Authors: Zhang Jiyun , Wu Jianchang , Barabash Anastasia , Du Tian , Qiu Shudi , Le Corre Vincent M. , Zhao Yicheng , Zhang Kaicheng , Schmitt Frederik , Peng Zijian , Tian Jingjing , Li Chaohui , Liu Chao , Heumueller Thomas , Lüer Larry , Hauch Jens A. , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: June 2024

Using a fully automated device acceleration platform (DAP) to systematically optimize air-processed parameters and establish a standard operation procedure (SOP) for preparing high-performance perovskite solar cells under ambient air.
Producing hexamethylenediamine from caprolactam via 6-aminocapronitrile: a green production technology of the monomer of nylon-66
Authors: Geng Kaiyu , Li Hui , Zhang Dianzi , Yu Baowei , Hu Hongqin , Geng Jiao , Wu Youting , Hu Xingbang
Published: June 2024

A green hexamethylenediamine production pathway employing caprolactam as a feedstock is reported.
Quantitative reagent monitoring in paper-based electrochemical rapid diagnostic tests
Authors: Bezinge Léonard , deMello Andrew J. , Shih Chih-Jen , Richards Daniel A.
Published: June 2024

Exploiting non-faradaic signals from electrochemical sensors to track reagent flow in rapid diagnostic tests: towards smart tests with reduced user errors.
Programmable and resilient metamaterials with anisotropic and non-linear mechanical responses composed exclusively of stiff constituents
Authors: Yao Hongyi , Zhao Xiaoyu , Shi Kaiwen , Sun Wei , Mi Shengli
Published: July 2024

We propose a systematic strategy to create a family of three-dimensional programmable resilient mechanical metamaterials with robust resilience and anisotropic non-linear response, without relying on flexible or hyperelastic components.
Ultralow sulfur diesel production with defective 12-molybdophosphoric acid polyoxometalate
Authors: de la Fuente Natali , Chen Lifang , Noreña Luis Enrique , Wang Jin An , Manzo Arturo , Guzmán Ariel , Aguilar J. , González J. , Navarrete J. , Casados Dora Alicia Solís
Published: June 2024

Highly dispersed 12-molybdophosphoric acid catalysts with oxygen defects and strong acidity were synthesized and applied in the oxidation removal of dibenzothiophene for ultraclean diesel production.
Atomically precise nanocluster-catalyzed coupling reactions
Authors: Hu Jinhui , Li Yi-Ming , Zhang Bei , Kang Xi , Zhu Manzhou
Published: July 2024

This review highlights the factors that can dictate the properties of cluster-based catalysts towards coupling reactions, such as ligand effect, doping effect, support effect, and defective effect.
Photoswitchable hydrazones with pyridine-based rotors and halogen substituents
Authors: Kotásková Lucie , Jewula Pawel , Herchel Radovan , Nemec Ivan , Neugebauer Petr
Published: July 2024

We report on the E,Z-photoisomerization of hydrazone switches with pyridine-based rotors and halogen-substituted stators.
Fractionation of beech wood cell walls into digestible cellulose-rich residues and photoluminescent lignin-rich precipitates via semi-flow hot-compressed water treatment with 2-naphthol
Authors: Takada Masatsugu , Okazaki Yutaka , Kajita Shinya , Kawamoto Haruo , Sagawa Takashi
Published: July 2024

Hydrothermal treatment with 2-naphthol is an effective approach for the complete utilization of cell wall components from wood biomass.
Catalytic conversion of residual raw material into biodiesel using a superior magnetic solid acid catalyst based on Zn–Fe ferrite: thermodynamic and kinetic studies
Authors: Gonçalves Matheus Arrais , Lima dos Santos Hiarla Cristina , Melo da Silva Paula Maria , Paula da Luz Corrêa Ana , Ribeiro Thaissa Saraiva , de Araújo Sobrinho Izadora , Narciso da Rocha Filho Geraldo , Vieira da Conceição Leyvison Rafael
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the potential and applicability of a new solid magnetic catalyst constructed by incorporating molybdenum oxide (MoO3) into zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4) for the production of biodiesel using waste frying oil as the residual raw material.
Study of optical rotation based on the molecular structure in fused oligomers of macrocycles
Authors: Katoono Ryo , Obara Yudai , Sakamoto Kazuki , Miyashita Rei
Published: July 2024

The fusion of macrocyclic elements, which adopt twisted forms with M- or P-helicity, provides a variety of chiral architectures. The correlation between optical rotation and the molecular structure is discussed.
A multiscale investigation of polypropylene glycol polymer upcycling to propionaldehyde via catalytic cracking on acid sites of mesoporous Y zeolites
Authors: Martinez Abraham , Shikhaliyev Kanan , Li Xuemin , Han Jinyi , Chaudhuri Kaustav , Hwang Son-Jong , Urban-Klaehn Jagoda M. , Kuperman Alexander , Gaffney Anne , Lauterbach Jochen , Katz Alexander
Published: July 2024

Multi-scale upcycling of PPG polymer synthesizes propionaldehyde in 95% selectivity & 86% yield.
Intermolecular C–H silylations of arenes and heteroarenes with mono-, bis-, and tris(trimethylsiloxy)hydrosilanes: control of silane redistribution under operationally diverse approaches
Authors: Swann Noah , Tang Kiki , Nam Jihyeon , Lee Jooyeon , Domin Marek , Shaw Thomas E. , Kozimor Stosh A. , Som Salina , Lee Kangsang L.
Published: July 2024

Operationally diverse C–H silylations of (hetero) arenes with a broad silane scope are reported. The control of silane redistribution improves overall catalytic efficiency, affording the various arylsiloxysilanes useful for polysiloxane materials.
In situ bioorthogonal-modulation of m6A RNA methylation in macrophages for efficient eradication of intracellular bacteria
Authors: Sun Mengyu , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: June 2024

A bioorthogonal in situ modulation strategy of m6A methylation was proposed. As a proof of concept, this strategy was successfully applied to reprogram macrophage polarization into bactericidal M1 phenotype for efficient bacterial ablation.
Correction: Investing in entropy: the strategy of cucurbit[n]urils to accelerate the intramolecular Diels–Alder cycloaddition reaction of tertiary furfuryl amines
Authors: Vega-Hernández Karen de la , Suero Marcos G. , Ballester Pablo
Published: June 2024

Correction for ‘Investing in entropy: the strategy of cucurbit[n]urils to accelerate the intramolecular Diels–Alder cycloaddition reaction of tertiary furfuryl amines’ by Karen de la Vega-Hernández et al., Chem. Sci., 2024, 15, 8841–8849, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4SC01816H.
Visible light-induced bromine radical enhanced hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) reactions in organic synthesis
Authors: Saxena Barakha , Patel Roshan I. , Sharma Anuj
Published: July 2024

This review describes the recent advancements in visible light-induced bromine radical enhanced hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) reactions in organic synthesis.
Non-oxidative calcination enhances the methane dry reforming performance of Ni/CeO2−x catalysts under thermal and photo-thermal conditions
Authors: Lorber Kristijan , Shvalya Vasyl , Zavašnik Janez , Vengust Damjan , Arčon Iztok , Huš Matej , Pavlišič Andraž , Teržan Janvit , Cvelbar Uros , Likozar Blaž , Djinović Petar
Published: July 2024

Calcination in hydrogen or argon improved nickel dispersion and increased the abundance of oxygen vacancies in ceria nanorods. Visible light both accelerated the methane reforming rate and improved H2 selectivity by retarding the RWGS reaction.
Wood-derived flexible supercapacitors for anti-freezing green power sources
Authors: Ma Hongting , Zhao Qian , Cheng Peihao , Geng Xiaodong , Tao Huannuo , Zhang Zhouxiaolong , Jiang Yue , Ma Junlin , Yang Kai , Liu Quanli , Zhang Hanwen , Liang Zhida , Li Jian , Wang Tianlu , Xue Mianqi , Zhu Nan
Published: July 2024

An anti-freezing flexible supercapacitor (−30 °C) with good mechanical flexibility and high specific areal capacitance is developed as a green renewable power source.
Constructing FeSe2 nanorods supported on ketjenblack with superior cyclability for potassium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Bi-Cui , Lu Xian , Zhong Hou-Yang , Huang Pei-Weng , Wu Ya-Nan , Xu Si-Yu , Tan Xue-You , Wu Xiao-Hui
Published: July 2024

This study introduces a one-step solid-state synthesis approach for the encapsulation of FeSe2 nanorods within a ketjenblack (KB) carbon matrix, yielding an excellent anode material with superior rate performance for potassium ion batteries.
Layered 2D material heterostructures – a colloidal perspective
Authors: Hill Eric H.
Published: July 2024

The development and ongoing discovery of 2D materials and their optical and electronic properties led to interest in the stacking of different 2D materials into layered heterostructures, giving rise to a number of colloidal approaches.
A borate [C6N2H15]·[B5O6(OH)4] ferroelectric crystal: synthesis, properties and film fabrication
Authors: Chen An-Na , Deng Yan-Ling , Xin Shu-Sheng , Liu Zhi-Qiang , Zhong Li-Juan , Pan Chun-Yang
Published: July 2024

A new ferroelectric borate [C6N2H15]·[B5O6(OH)4] was synthesized and a series of ferroelectric films were prepared on different substrates. Thickness of the film can be controlled by the number of coatings, thus tuning the performance of the film.
Mass-produced, dispenser-printed single-electrode triboelectric nanogenerators for wearable applications: a simple approach
Authors: Cong Chenhao , Jiang Fuhao , Wang Guangwei , Li Hongjiang , Zhang Haoran , Diao Binxuan , Zhao Enhao , Joo Sang Woo , Kim Se Hyun , Li Xinlin
Published: July 2024

We prepared ultra-flexible electrodes for wearable TENG applications by modifying commercial silver paste inks and employing a dispensing printing technique.
Inducible gene expression of IκB-kinase ε is dependent on nuclear factor-κB in human pulmonary epithelial cells
Authors: Necker-Brown Amandah , Kooi Cora , Thorne Andrew J. , Bansal Akanksha , Mostafa Mahmoud M. , Chandramohan Priyanka , Gao Alex , Kalyanaraman Keerthana , Milani Arya , Gill Sachman , Georgescu Andrei , Sasse Sarah K. , Gerber Anthony N. , Leigh Richard , Newton Robert
Published: June 2024

While IκB-kinase-ε (IKKε) induces immunomodulatory genes following viral stimuli, its up-regulation by inflammatory cytokines remains under-explored. Since airway epithelial cells respond to airborne insults and potentiate inflammation, IKKε expression was characterized in pulmonary epithelial cell lines (A549, BEAS-2B) and primary human bronchial epithelial cells grown as submersion or differentiated air-liquid interface cultures. IKKε expression was up-regulated by the pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNFα). Thus, mechanistic interrogations in A549 cells were used to demonstrate the NF-κB dependence of cytokine-induced IKKε. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation in A549 and BEAS-2B cells revealed robust recruitment of the NF-κB subunit, p65, to one 5′ and two intronic regions within the IKKε locus (IKBKE). In addition, IL-1β and TNFα induced strong RNA polymerase 2 recruitment to the 5′ region, the first intron, and the transcription start site. Stable transfection of the p65-binding regions into A549 cells revealed IL-1β- and TNFα-inducible reporter activity that required NF-κB, but was not repressed by glucocorticoid. While critical NF-κB motifs were identified in the 5′ and downstream intronic regions, the first intronic region did not contain functional NF-κB motifs. Thus, IL-1β- and TNFα-induced IKKε expression involves three NF-κB-binding regions, containing multiple functional NF-κB motifs, and potentially other mechanisms of p65 binding through non-classical NF-κB binding motifs. By enhancing IKKε expression, IL-1β may prime, or potentiate, responses to alternative stimuli, as modelled by IKKε phosphorylation induced by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. However, since IKKε expression was only partially repressed by glucocorticoid, IKKε-dependent responses could contribute to glucocorticoid-resistant disease.
Liposomal‐Naringenin Radiosensitizes Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer MDA‐MB‐231 Cells In Vitro
Authors: Pearce Keenau , Cairncross Samantha I. , Benjeddou Mongi
Published: June 2024

Background. Naringenin has shown great promise in the realm of cancer therapeutics, demonstrating excellent cytotoxic action toward cancer cells and the enhanced effects of radiation therapy in vitro. However, the medicinal value of naringenin is severely limited clinically by poor bioavailability. Thus, multiple drug‐delivery strategies for overcoming this limitation have been developed, of which liposomes are considered the most suitable due to their amphiphilic, modifiable, and biocompatible characteristics. In this study, we investigated the role of naringenin and liposomal‐delivered naringenin as adjuncts to radiotherapy in the MDA‐MB‐231 triple‐negative breast cancer cell line in vitro. Materials and Methods. Liposomal‐naringenin was synthesized by thin‐film hydration and extrusion and was characterized by spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential. The effects of free‐from naringenin and liposomal‐naringenin were evaluated toward MDA‐MB‐231 cell viability when combined with varying doses of radiation. Additionally, cell growth patterns, morphology, and colony formation were evaluated. Results. The analysis demonstrated IC50 values of 387.5 and 546.6 µg/ml for naringenin and liposomal‐naringenin, respectively. Naringenin and liposomal‐naringenin significantly lowered cell viability, proliferation, and colony formation dose‐dependently, as compared to radiation in isolation. Conclusion. The findings presented herein concur with previous accounts of the radiosensitizing potential of naringenin and further highlight the considerable biomedical application of liposomal‐naringenin within the realm of radiotherapy.
Closed‐loop stability analysis of deep reinforcement learning controlled systems with experimental validation
Authors: Mohiuddin Mohammed Basheer , Boiko Igor , Azzam Rana , Zweiri Yahya
Published: June 2024

Trained deep reinforcement learning (DRL) based controllers can effectively control dynamic systems where classical controllers can be ineffective and difficult to tune. However, the lack of closed‐loop stability guarantees of systems controlled by trained DRL agents hinders their adoption in practical applications. This research study investigates the closed‐loop stability of dynamic systems controlled by trained DRL agents using Lyapunov analysis based on a linear‐quadratic polynomial approximation of the trained agent. In addition, this work develops an understanding of the system's stability margin to determine operational boundaries and critical thresholds of the system's physical parameters for effective operation. The proposed analysis is verified on a DRL‐controlled system for several simulated and experimental scenarios. The DRL agent is trained using a detailed dynamic model of a non‐linear system and then tested on the corresponding real‐world hardware platform without any fine‐tuning. Experiments are conducted on a wide range of system states and physical parameters and the results have confirmed the validity of the proposed stability analysis (https://youtu.be/QlpeD5sTlPU).
HYPERION
Authors: Tripodi R. , Feruglio C. , Fiore F. , Zappacosta L. , Piconcelli E. , Bischetti M. , Bongiorno A. , Carniani S. , Civano F. , Chen C.-C. , Cristiani S. , Cupani G. , Di Mascia F. , D’Odorico V. , Fan X. , Ferrara A. , Gallerani S. , Ginolfi M. , Maiolino R. , Mainieri V. , Marconi A. , Saccheo I. , Salvestrini F. , Tortosa A. , Valiante R.
Published: June 2024

We used low- to high-frequency ALMA observations to investigate the cold gas and dust in ten quasistellar objects (QSOs) at z ≳ 6. Our analysis of the CO(6−5) and CO(7−6) emission lines in the selected QSOs provided insights into their molecular gas masses, which average around 1010 M⊙. This is consistent with typical values for high-redshift QSOs. Proprietary and archival ALMA observations in bands 8 and 9 enabled precise constraints on the dust properties and star formation rate (SFR) of four QSOs in our sample for the first time. The examination of the redshift distribution of dust temperatures revealed a general trend of increasing Tdust with redshift, which agrees with theoretical expectations. In contrast, our investigation of the dust emissivity index indicated a generally constant value with redshift, suggesting shared dust properties among sources. We computed a mean cold dust spectral energy distribution considering all ten QSOs that offers a comprehensive view of the dust properties of high-z QSOs. The QSOs marked by a more intense growth of the supermassive black hole (HYPERION QSOs) showed lower dust masses and higher gas-to-dust ratios on average, but their H2 gas reservoirs are consistent with those of other QSOs at the same redshift. The observed high SFR in our sample yields high star formation efficiencies and thus very short gas depletion timescales (τdep ∼ 10−2 Gyr). Beyond supporting the paradigm that high-z QSOs reside in highly star-forming galaxies, our findings portrayed an interesting evolutionary path at z > 6. Our study suggests that QSOs at z ≳ 6 are undergoing rapid galaxy growth that might be regulated by strong outflows. In the MBH − Mdyn plane, our high-z QSOs lie above the relation measured locally. Their inferred evolutionary path shows a convergence toward the massive end of the local relation, which supports the idea that they are candidate progenitors of local massive galaxies. The observed pathway involves intense black hole growth followed by substantial galaxy growth, in contrast with a symbiotic growth scenario. The evidence of a stellar bulge in one of the QSOs of the sample is further aligned with that typical of local massive galaxies.
The fate of the interstellar medium in early-type galaxies
Authors: Nadolny Jakub , Michałowski Michał J. , Parente Massimiliano , Hjorth Jens , Gall Christa , Leśniewska Aleksandra , Solar Martín , Nowaczyk Przemysław , Ryzhov Oleh
Published: June 2024

Context. Removing the cold interstellar medium (ISM) from a galaxy is essential to quenching star formation, however, the exact mechanism behind this process remains unclear.

Aims. The objective of this work is to find the mechanism responsible for dust and gas removal in simulated early-type galaxies.

Methods. We studied a statistically significant sample of massive (M* > 1010 M⊙), simulated early-type galaxies in a redshift range of 0.02−0.32 in the context of its ISM properties. In particular, we investigated the cold dust and gas removal timescales, the cold gas inflows, and their relation with black hole mass. We also investigated the evolution of galaxies in the dust mass and star formation rate (SFR) plane and the influence of merger events. Finally, we broke down the dust destruction mechanisms to find which (if any) of the implemented processes dominate as a function of a galaxy’s stellar age.

Results. We find a good agreement with previous observational works dealing with the timescales of dust and HI removal from early-type galaxies. When considering the dust-to-stellar-mass ratio as a function of time in simulations, we recovered a similar decline as in the observational sample as a function of stellar age, validating its use for timing the ISM decline. Moreover, we recovered the observed relation between dust mass and the SFR for actively star-forming galaxies, as well as that of passive early-type galaxies. We also show that starburst galaxies form their own sequence on the dust mass and SFR plot in the form of log(Mdust, SB) = 0.913 × log(SFR)+6.533, with a 2σ scatter of 0.32. Finally, we find that type II supernova reverse shocks dominate the dust destruction at the early stages of early-type galaxy evolution; however, we also see that at later times, stellar feedback becomes more important. We show that merger events lead to morphological transformations by increasing the bulge-to-total stellar mass ratio, followed by an increase in black hole masses. The black hole feedback resulting from radio mode accretion prevents the hot halo gas from cooling, indirectly leading to a decrease in the SFR.
Characterising planetary systems with SPIRou: Temperate sub-Neptune exoplanet orbiting the nearby fully convective star GJ 1289 and a candidate around GJ 3378
Authors: Moutou C. , Ould-Elhkim M. , Donati J.-F. , Charpentier P. , Cadieux C. , Delfosse X. , Artigau E. , Arnold L. , Baruteau C. , Carmona A. , Cook N. J. , Cortes Zuleta P. , Doyon R. , Hébrard G. ,   the SLS consortium
Published: June 2024

We report the discovery of two new exoplanet systems around fully convective stars, found from the radial-velocity (RV) variations of their host stars measured with the nIR spectropolarimeter CFHT/SPIRou over multiple years. GJ 3378 b is a planet with minimum mass of 5.26−0.97+0.94 M⊕ on an eccentric 24.73-day orbit around an M4V star of 0.26 M⊙. GJ 1289 b has a minimum mass of 6.27 ± 1.25 M⊙ in a 111.74-day orbit, on a circular orbit around an M4.5V star of mass 0.21 M⊙. Both stars are in the solar neighbourhood, at 7.73 and 8.86 pc, respectively. The low-amplitude RV signals are detected after line-by-line post-processing treatment. These potential sub-Neptune class planets around cool stars may have temperate atmospheres and be interesting nearby systems for further studies. We also recovered the large-scale magnetic field of both stars, found to be mostly axisymmetric and dipolar, with polar strengths of 20–30 G and 200–240 G for GJ 3378 (in 2019–2021) and GJ 1289 (in 2022–2023), respectively. The rotation periods measured with the magnetic field differ from the orbital periods and, in general, stellar activity is not seen in the studied nIR RV time series of both stars. GJ 3378 b detections have not been confirmed by optical RVs and, therefore, they are solely considered a candidate for the present purposes.
Exploring the stellar rotation of early-type stars in the LAMOST medium-resolution survey
Authors: Sun Weijia , Chiappini Cristina
Published: June 2024

Context. Stellar rotation significantly shapes the evolution of massive stars, yet the interplay of mass and metallicity remains elusive, limiting our capacity to construct accurate stellar evolution models and to better estimate the impact of rotation on the chemical evolution of galaxies.

Aims. Our goal is to investigate how mass and metallicity influence the rotational evolution of A-type stars on the main sequence (MS). We seek to identify deviations in rotational behaviors that could serve as new constraints for existing stellar models.

Methods. Using the LAMOST Median-Resolution Survey Data Release 9, we derived stellar parameters for a population of 104 752 A-type stars. Our study focused on the evolution of surface rotational velocities and their dependence on mass and metallicity in 84 683 “normal” stars.

Results. Normalizing surface rotational velocities to zero age main sequence (ZAMS) values revealed a prevailing evolutionary profile from 1.7 to 4.0 M⊙. This profile features an initial rapid acceleration until t/tMS = 0.25 ± 0.1 and potentially a second acceleration peak near t/tMS = 0.55 ± 0.1 for stars heavier than 2.5 M⊙, followed by a steady decline and a “hook” feature at the end. Surpassing theoretical expectations, the initial acceleration likely stems from a concentrated distribution of angular momentum at the ZAMS, resulting in a prolonged increase in speed. A transition phase for stars with 2.0 < M/M⊙ < 2.3 emerged, a region where evolutionary tracks remain uncertain. Stellar expansion primarily drives the spin down in the latter half of the MS, accompanied by significant influence from inverse meridional circulation. The inverse circulation becomes more efficient at lower metallicities, explaining the correlation of the slope of this deceleration phase with metallicity from –0.3 dex up to 0.1 dex. The metal-poor subsample (−0.3 dex < [M/H]<  − 0.1 dex) starts with lower velocities at the ZAMS, suggesting that there is a metallicity-dependent mechanism that removes angular momentum during star formation. The proportion of fast rotators decreases with an increase in metallicity, up to log(Z/Z⊙)∼ − 0.2, a trend consistent with observations of OB-type stars found in the Small and Large Magellanic Clouds.
Solving the Myxidium rhodei (Myxozoa) puzzle: insights into its phylogeny and host specificity in Cypriniformes
Authors: Baiko Dariya , Lisnerová Martina , Bartošová-Sojková Pavla , Holzer Astrid S. , Blabolil Petr , Schabuss Michael , Fiala Ivan
Published: July 2024

Myxidium rhodei Léger, 1905 (Cnidaria: Myxozoa) is a kidney-infecting myxosporean that was originally described from the European bitterling Rhodeus amarus. Subsequently, it has been documented based on spore morphology in more than 40 other cypriniform species, with the roach Rutilus rutilus being the most commonly reported host. This study introduces the first comprehensive data assessment of M. rhodei, conducted through morphological, ecological and molecular methods. The morphological and phylogenetic analyses of SSU rDNA sequences of Myxidium isolates obtained from European bitterling and roach did not support parasite conspecificity from these fish. In fact, the roach-infecting isolates represent three distinct parasite species. The first two, M. rutili n. sp. and M. rutilusi n. sp., are closely related cryptic species clustering with other myxosporeans in the freshwater urinary clade, sharing the same tissue tropism. The third one, M. batuevae n. sp., previously assigned to M. cf. rhodei, clustered in the hepatic biliary clade sister to bitterling-infecting M. rhodei. Our examination of diverse cypriniform fishes, coupled with molecular and morphological analyses, allowed us to untangle the cryptic species nature of M. rhodei and discover the existence of novel species. This underscores the largely undiscovered range of myxozoan diversity and highlights the need to incorporate sequence data in diagnosing novel species.
Désigner la pathologie avant une intervention de neurochirurgie éveillée
Authors: Bertin Thomas
Published: June 2024

L’étude relève de l’analyse du discours en contexte médical et s’intéresse aux interactions verbales en milieu hospitalier. Elle explore un ensemble de consultations enregistrées à l’hôpital de La Cavale Blanche (Brest) anticipant une intervention de neurochirurgie éveillée (NCE) dont le but est la résection de tumeurs cérébrales. Les modalités de la NCE – justifiées par la nécessité de s’appuyer sur les rétroactions d’un patient conscient, et même acteur, pour optimiser le geste chirurgical – exigent de l’équipe soignante une attention particulière à l’accompagnement et à la préparation du patient. Dans ce cadre, est décryptée la manière dont « la pathologie est désignée ». Il s’agit de saisir comment les discours sur la pathologie contribuent à construire une relation thérapeutique relevant du partenariat. L’analyse souligne la complémentarité des rôles des différents soignants mise au service de (i) l’acceptation de la maladie et du statut/rôle de patient; (ii) la préparation, sur les plans opérationnel comme psychologique, de l’intervention de NCE; (iii) la verbalisation, voire le désamorçage, des appréhensions relativement à la maladie et au protocole chirurgical.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection and endoscopic mucosal resection for Barrett’s-associated neoplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the published literature
Authors: Radadiya Dhruvil , Desai Madhav , Patel Harsh , Velji-Ibrahim Jena , Spadaccini Marco , Srinivasan Sachin , Khurana Shruti , Thoguluva Chandrasekar Viveksandeep , Perisetti Abhilash , Repici Alessandro , Hassan Cesare , Sharma Prateek
Published: June 2024

Background The role of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in the treatment of Barrett esophagus-associated neoplasia (BEN) has been evolving. We examined the efficacy and safety of ESD and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for BEN.

Methods A database search was performed for studies reporting efficacy and safety outcomes of ESD and EMR for BEN. Pooled proportional and comparative meta-analyses were performed.

Results 47 studies (23 ESD, 19 EMR, 5 comparative) were included. The mean lesion sizes for ESD and EMR were 22.5 mm and 15.8 mm, respectively; most lesions were Paris type IIa. For ESD, pooled analysis showed rates of en bloc, R0, and curative resection, and local recurrence of 98%, 78%, 65%, and 2%, respectively. Complete eradication of dysplasia and intestinal metaplasia were achieved in 94% and 59% of cases, respectively. Pooled rates of perforation, intraprocedural bleeding, delayed bleeding, and stricture were 1%, 1%, 2%, and 10%, respectively. For EMR, pooled analysis showed rates of en bloc, R0, and curative resection, and local recurrence of 37%, 67%, 62%, and 6%, respectively. Complete eradication of dysplasia and intestinal metaplasia were achieved in 94% and 75% of cases. Pooled rates of perforation, intraprocedural bleeding, delayed bleeding, and stricture were 0.1%, 1%, 0.4%, and 8%, respectively. The mean procedure times for ESD and EMR were 113 and 22 minutes, respectively. Comparative analysis showed higher en bloc and R0 resection rates with ESD compared with EMR, with comparable adverse events.

Conclusion ESD and EMR can both be employed to treat BEN depending on lesion type and size, and center expertise.
Simplifying Stem Cell Therapy for IRs: Exploring New Horizons in Interventional Radiology and Cell Therapy
Authors: Ghanaati Hossein , Rouzbahani Maedeh
Published: July 2024

The effective treatment of various diseases requires not only medications but also precise delivery methods to the body and specific organs. In this regard, radiology plays a crucial role, acting as the eyes of physicians. In contrast, interventional radiology serves as its hands, acting as one of the most effective drug delivery systems. Among interventional radiology disciplines, arterial drug delivery through arteries holds paramount importance as organs primarily receive nourishment directly from them. Furthermore, regenerative medicine is a burgeoning field dedicated to repairing diverse body tissues without relying on pharmaceutical drugs. Stem cells, inherent in various parts of our bodies, are vital for tissue regeneration and reconstruction. Depending on the treatment approach, stem cells can be sourced from the patient's body (autologous) or another individual (allogeneic). There exist various types of stem cells across species, with regenerative properties observed in animals and even plants. However, targeted cell therapy is preferred over systematic injections throughout the body for better efficacy. This article aims to familiarize interventionalists with stem cells and provide them with a clear and helpful explanation of their functions, mechanisms of action, different sources, and other relevant aspects. This will help them select the most appropriate cells for their therapeutic purposes. By comprehensively understanding the significance of stem cells in interventional radiology, we can implement optimal methodologies to address diverse medical conditions efficiently.
Knightian uncertain violence and the challenge of FDI-assisted development: policy recommendations where civilian lives are at risk
Authors: Thakur-Wernz Pooja , Barnard Helena , Matthee Marianne
Published: June 2024

In this interdisciplinary paper, reviewing scholarship on both politically motivated and social violence, we use the Knightian distinction between (measurable) risk and (unknowable) uncertainty to examine how international business is affected when violence is directed at civilians, civilians are killed, and violence levels are constantly changing. Using data on 48 African countries (1997–2021), we show the uncertainty of these actions deters inward foreign direct investment (IFDI). As a high-commitment mode of internationalization, IFDI involves deepening knowledge of and exposure to foreign locations. Because uncertainty challenges the feasibility of deepening knowledge and is so hard to mitigate, investors behave differently than under risky conditions—they avoid contexts with Knightian uncertain violence. Our post hoc analysis shows that as IFDI decreases, exporting by local firms increases, suggesting another way to remain globally economically connected. Although our work raises many questions that demand further research, we can already identify useful policy insights. When violence makes a context uncertain to the point of virtual unknowability, IFDI will only assist development if policymakers and MNEs alike work to reduce violence. Multi-sectoral partnerships, increasing educational opportunities, and especially good governance are critical to ensuring IFDI is not appropriated by perpetrators of violence, but instead serves development.