bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of intrinsic capacity decline among community-dwelling older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cao Xia , Yi Xuanzi , Chen Hui , Tian Yusheng , Li Sihong , Zhou Jiansong
Published: August 2024

Background

The concept of intrinsic capacity (IC) was introduced to define healthy aging and active aging based on functional capacity, yet there is limited understanding of the risk of IC decline at a population level.

Aims

To consolidate existing evidence for rates of IC decline and risk factors among community-dwelling adults 60 years or older.

Methods

According to the PRISMA guidelines, the literature search was independently conducted by two researchers in 8 databases from inception to January 2024 without language restrictions using combinations of free words and subject words. Qualities of included studies were assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI’s) critical appraisal checklist for prevalence studies. To pool the data, a random-effect meta-analysis was performed, followed by subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis. All analyses were performed by Stata14.0.

Results

From 1594 records, 15 studies were extracted with 33,070 participants for meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of IC decline in community settings was 67.8% (95% CI: 57.0-78.5%; P < 0.001). The prevalence of IC decline in China (66.0%; 95% CI: 53.2-78.9%) was found to be slightly lower than in other countries/regions (73.0%; 95% CI: 59.8-86.3%); however, this difference was not statistically significant. Other subgroup analyses revealed no statistically significant differences in prevalence. Age, hypertension, diabetes, gender, education level, living status, smoking, regular exercise, marital status, and osteoarthritis are associated with IC decline.

Conclusion

More than two-thirds of older adults in the community are affected by IC decline, and age, hypertension, diabetes, female sex, low education level, living alone, smoking, irregular exercise, unmarried, and osteoarthritis are all risk factors for IC decline.
A Systematic Review Exploring the Effectiveness of Body Image Interventions Among Boys
Authors: Ahuja Latika , Schneider Jekaterina , Budhraja Mahira , Diedrichs Phillippa C. , Williamson Heidi
Published: August 2024

Body image concerns significantly impact boys’ physical and mental health. While several reviews synthesize evidence on body image interventions for mixed-gender adolescents, a systematic review exclusively focusing on boys is currently missing. Thus, this systematic review synthesizes evidence on universal psychosocial interventions targeting body image among boys and identifies effective approaches for enhancing their body image. Searches were conducted across seven databases until February 2024. Forty-one studies were included and assessed for quality across domains such as selection bias, study design, and methods. Three studies exclusively targeted boys, while 38 involved mixed-gender groups. Multiple therapeutic approaches were used across the interventions, including media literacy, socio-cognitive approaches, combined cognitive dissonance and media literacy, positive body image, compassion and mindfulness, and other approaches, with no single approach proving universally effective. Some promise for interventions employing positive body image and embodiment techniques was noted. Few interventions showed effectiveness on boys’ body image but most benefited girls. Further, findings were inconsistent across outcomes, with lower-quality studies driving evidence of effectiveness. These findings highlight that the effectiveness of current body image interventions among boys is inconclusive, emphasizing the urgent need for improvement or development of new interventions tailored specifically to address boys’ body image concerns.
In vitro investigations on the effects of graphene and graphene oxide on polycaprolactone bone tissue engineering scaffolds
Authors: Hou Yanhao , Wang Weiguang , Bartolo Paulo
Published: August 2024

Polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds that are produced through additive manufacturing are one of the most researched bone tissue engineering structures in the field. Due to the intrinsic limitations of PCL, carbon nanomaterials are often investigated to reinforce the PCL scaffolds. Despite several studies that have been conducted on carbon nanomaterials, such as graphene (G) and graphene oxide (GO), certain challenges remain in terms of the precise design of the biological and nonbiological properties of the scaffolds. This paper addresses this limitation by investigating both the nonbiological (element composition, surface, degradation, and thermal and mechanical properties) and biological characteristics of carbon nanomaterial-reinforced PCL scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications. Results showed that the incorporation of G and GO increased surface properties (reduced modulus and wettability), material crystallinity, crystallization temperature, and degradation rate. However, the variations in compressive modulus, strength, surface hardness, and cell metabolic activity strongly depended on the type of reinforcement. Finally, a series of phenomenological models were developed based on experimental results to describe the variations of scaffold’s weight, fiber diameter, porosity, and mechanical properties as functions of degradation time and carbon nanomaterial concentrations. The results presented in this paper enable the design of three-dimensional (3D) bone scaffolds with tuned properties by adjusting the type and concentration of different functional fillers.

Graphic abstract
The impact of COVID-19 on health-related quality of life: a systematic review and evidence-based recommendations
Authors: Xu Feifei , Brodszky Valentin
Published: August 2024

Objective

This systematic review examines the impact of COVID-19 on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) across different populations, focusing on demographic, socio-economic, and COVID-19-related factors.

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed from 2020 to 2022 was conducted, identifying 37 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Studies were assessed using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies, Newcastle–Ottawa Scale, and Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards tools. Data extraction included study characteristics, HRQoL measures, and health state utility values.

Results

Thirty-seven studies were conducted with a total of 46,709 individuals and 274 HSUVs ranging from 0.224 to 1. Research included Europe (n = 20), North America (n = 4), Asia (n = 11), South America (n = 1), and Africa (n = 1). Utility was measured using 15D (n = 3), EQ-5D-5L (n = 24), EQ-5D-3L (n = 8), VAS (n = 1), and TTO (n = 1). The review found significant decreases in HRQoL among COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with severe symptoms, due to persistent fatigue, breathlessness, and psychological distress. Quarantine and isolation measures also negatively impacted HRQoL, with increased anxiety and depression. Vaccination status influenced HRQoL, with vaccinated individuals reporting better outcomes. Socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, education, employment, marital status, and income significantly affected HRQoL, with older adults, females, and unemployed individuals experiencing lower HRQoL.

Conclusions

COVID-19 has profoundly affected HRQoL, highlighting the need for comprehensive post-recovery rehabilitation programs and targeted public health interventions. Addressing socio-demographic disparities is crucial to mitigate the pandemic’s impact on HRQoL. Policymakers and healthcare providers should implement strategies to support affected populations, emphasizing mental health support, social support systems, and vaccination programs.
Traceability and Mass Policy Feedback Effects
Authors: HAMEL BRIAN T.
Published: August 2024

Theory suggests that policy benefits delivered directly by government are most likely to affect the voting behavior of beneficiaries. Nearly every empirical study, however, analyzes a policy or program that meets this criterion. To address this limitation, I compare the electoral impacts of two New Deal-era employment programs—the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Public Works Administration (PWA)—which differed primarily in their traceability to government. Though both programs provided employment, the WPA directly hired and paid employees. In contrast, the PWA subsidized private sector employment. Across two datasets, I find that the WPA increased support for the enacting Democratic Party. As expected, however, the PWA had no discernible causal effect on voting patterns. These results offer the strongest evidence to date that whether policy beneficiaries can easily see government as responsible for their benefits shapes the development of mass policy feedback effects.
Electronic Farewells in the Digital Age
Authors: Lee Sangwook , Yang Yin , Zhong Bu
Published: August 2024

Abstract: To examine how political differences on social media disrupt user relationships, we conduct two 2 (political disagreement vs. political agreement) × 2 (civil vs. uncivil discussion) between-subjects experiments, with adult and college student samples. The results show that political disagreement heightens feelings of uncomfortableness, which in turn increases the intention to engage in social media filtering actions. Discussion manner moderates the association between uncomfortableness and social media filtering intention in college students, but not in adults. Uncomfortableness positively predicts filtering intention with civil discussion, whereas uncivil discussion leads to higher social media filtering intention regardless of the level of uncomfortableness. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of these findings, which have implications for the development of strategies aimed at mitigating the trends of political polarization.
Deciphering the Isotopic Imprint of Nitrate to Reveal Nitrogen Source and Transport Mechanisms in a Tile‐Drained Agroecosystem
Authors: Hu Yinchao , Yu Zhongjie , Yang Wendy H. , Margenot Andrew J. , Gentry Lowell E. , Wander Michelle M. , Mulvaney Richard L. , Mitchell Corey A. , Guacho Carlos E.
Published: August 2024

Installation of subsurface drainage systems has profoundly altered the nitrogen cycle in agricultural regions across the globe, facilitating substantial loss of nitrate (NO3−) to surface water systems. Lack of understanding of the sources and processes controlling NO3− loss from tile‐drained agroecosystems hinders the development of management strategies aimed at reducing this loss. The natural abundance nitrogen and oxygen isotopes of NO3− provide a valuable tool for differentiating nitrogen sources and tracking the biogeochemical transformations acting on NO3−. This study combined multi‐years of tile drainage measurements with NO3− isotopic analysis to examine NO3− source and transport mechanisms in a tile‐drained corn‐soybean field. The tile drainage NO3− isotope data were supplemented by characterization of the nitrogen isotopic composition of potential NO3− sources (fertilizer, soil nitrogen, and crop biomass) in the field and the oxygen isotopic composition of NO3− produced by nitrification in soil incubations. The results show that NO3− isotopes in tile drainage were highly responsive to tile discharge variation and fertilizer input. After accounting for isotopic fractionations during nitrification and denitrification, the isotopic signature of tile drainage NO3− was temporally stable and similar to those of fertilizer and soybean residue during unfertilized periods. This temporal invariance in NO3− isotopic signature indicates a nitrogen legacy effect, possibly resulting from N recycling at the soil microsite scale and a large water storage for NO3− mixing. Collectively, these results demonstrate how combining field NO3− isotope data with knowledge of isotopic fractionations can reveal mechanisms controlling NO3− cycling and transport under complex field conditions.
Revealing the crucial roles of suppressive immune microenvironment in cardiac myxoma progression
Authors: Jiang Zedong , Kang Qianlong , Qian Hong , Xu Zhijie , Tong Huan , Yang Jiaqing , Li Li , Li Renwei , Li Guangqi , Chen Fei , Lin Nan , Zhao Yunuo , Shi Huashan , Huang Juan , Ma Xuelei
Published: August 2024

Cardiac myxoma is a commonly encountered tumor within the heart that has the potential to be life-threatening. However, the cellular composition of this condition is still not well understood. To fill this gap, we analyzed 75,641 cells from cardiac myxoma tissues based on single-cell sequencing. We defined a population of myxoma cells, which exhibited a resemblance to fibroblasts, yet they were distinguished by an increased expression of phosphodiesterases and genes associated with cell proliferation, differentiation, and adhesion. The clinical relevance of the cell populations indicated a higher proportion of myxoma cells and M2-like macrophage infiltration, along with their enhanced spatial interaction, were found to significantly contribute to the occurrence of embolism. The immune cells surrounding the myxoma exhibit inhibitory characteristics, with impaired function of T cells characterized by the expression of GZMK and TOX, along with a substantial infiltration of tumor-promoting macrophages expressed growth factors such as PDGFC. Furthermore, in vitro co-culture experiments showed that macrophages promoted the growth of myxoma cells significantly. In summary, this study presents a comprehensive single-cell atlas of cardiac myxoma, highlighting the heterogeneity of myxoma cells and their collaborative impact on immune cells. These findings shed light on the complex pathobiology of cardiac myxoma and present potential targets for intervention.
Measuring vaccination coverage and concerns of vaccine holdouts from web search logs
Authors: Chang Serina , Fourney Adam , Horvitz Eric
Published: August 2024

To design effective vaccine policies, policymakers need detailed data about who has been vaccinated, who is holding out, and why. However, existing data in the US are insufficient: reported vaccination rates are often delayed or not granular enough, and surveys of vaccine hesitancy are limited by high-level questions and self-report biases. Here we show how search engine logs and machine learning can help to fill these gaps, using anonymized Bing data from February to August 2021. First, we develop a vaccine intent classifier that accurately detects when a user is seeking the COVID-19 vaccine on Bing. Our classifier demonstrates strong agreement with CDC vaccination rates, while preceding CDC reporting by 1–2 weeks, and estimates more granular ZIP-level rates, revealing local heterogeneity in vaccine seeking. To study vaccine hesitancy, we use our classifier to identify two groups, vaccine early adopters and vaccine holdouts. We find that holdouts, compared to early adopters matched on covariates, are 67% likelier to click on untrusted news sites, and are much more concerned about vaccine requirements, development, and vaccine myths. Even within holdouts, clusters emerge with different concerns and openness to the vaccine. Finally, we explore the temporal dynamics of vaccine concerns and vaccine seeking, and find that key indicators predict when individuals convert from holding out to seeking the vaccine.
Microbiome mapping in dairy industry reveals new species and genes for probiotic and bioprotective activities
Authors: De Filippis Francesca , Valentino Vincenzo , Yap Min , Cabrera-Rubio Raul , Barcenilla Coral , Carlino Niccolò , Cobo-Díaz José F. , Quijada Narciso Martín , Calvete-Torre Inés , Ruas-Madiedo Patricia , Sabater Carlos , Sequino Giuseppina , Pasolli Edoardo , Wagner Martin , Margolles Abelardo , Segata Nicola , Álvarez-Ordóñez Avelino , Cotter Paul D. , Ercolini Danilo
Published: August 2024

The resident microbiome in food industries may impact on food quality and safety. In particular, microbes residing on surfaces in dairy industries may actively participate in cheese fermentation and ripening and contribute to the typical flavor and texture. In this work, we carried out an extensive microbiome mapping in 73 cheese-making industries producing different types of cheeses (fresh, medium and long ripened) and located in 4 European countries. We sequenced and analyzed metagenomes from cheese samples, raw materials and environmental swabs collected from both food contact and non-food contact surfaces, as well as operators’ hands and aprons. Dairy plants were shown to harbor a very complex microbiome, characterized by high prevalence of genes potentially involved in flavor development, probiotic activities, and resistance to gastro-intestinal transit, suggesting that these microbes may potentially be transferred to the human gut microbiome. More than 6100 high-quality Metagenome Assembled Genomes (MAGs) were reconstructed, including MAGs from several Lactic Acid Bacteria species and putative new species. Although microbial pathogens were not prevalent, we found several MAGs harboring genes related to antibiotic resistance, highlighting that dairy industry surfaces represent a potential hotspot for antimicrobial resistance (AR) spreading along the food chain. Finally, we identified facility-specific strains that can represent clear microbial signatures of different cheesemaking facilities, suggesting an interesting potential of microbiome tracking for the traceability of cheese origin.
Examining geographic variation in the prevalence of household drainage types across India in 2019-2021
Authors: Jain Anoop , Harrison Caleb , Kumar Akhil , Kim Rockli , Subramanian S. V.
Published: August 2024

The proportion of Indian households with access to a toilet has grown considerably over the past decade. Many of these toilets rely on on-site containment, either in the form of a septic tank or soak pit. If the waste from these containers is not removed using some type of mechanized method, it can overflow into drains before flowing into treatment facilities or being discharged into water bodies. Therefore, drains are a critical part of the sanitation chain. What remains unknown, however, is what types of drains are available to households in India. Understanding this is critical given that people are at a greater risk of ingesting contaminated water and making dermal contact with pathogens if waste flows in open drains. For the first time, India’s National Family Health Survey from 2019–2021 contains data on the type of drainage available to households. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to estimate the prevalence of households relying on no drainage, open drainage, drains to soak pits, and closed drainage. We also estimate these prevalence values for each of India’s 720 districts and by urban/rural communities to understand the geographic clustering of drainage types throughout India. Overall, we found that the most common drainage type was open drains (37.5% | 95% CI: 37.3–37.6), followed by closed drains (33.9% | 95% CI: 33.7–34.0). The household prevalence of open drainage was above 42% in more than half of India’s 720 districts. Similarly, the household prevalence of closed drainage was below 24% in more than half of India’s 720 districts. We also found that open drains were more common in rural communities, while closed drains were more common in urban communities. We also found a socioeconomic gradient in terms of drainage types, with those lower on the socioeconomic spectrum more likely to have open drains or no drainage. Our results underscore the need to both geographically and socioeconomically target interventions that ensure households have access to adequate drainage. Doing so is vital to remove contamination from the environment as a means of preventing morbidity.
All real projective measurements can be self-tested
Authors: Chen Ranyiliu , Mančinska Laura , Volčič Jurij
Published: August 2024

Entangled quantum systems feature non-local correlations that are stronger than could be realized classically. This property makes it possible to perform self-testing, the strongest form of quantum functionality verification, which allows a classical user to deduce the quantum state and measurements used to produce a given set of measurement statistics. While self-testing of quantum states is well understood, self-testing of measurements, especially in high dimensions, remains relatively unexplored. Here we prove that every real projective measurement can be self-tested. Our approach employs the idea that existing self-tests can be extended to verify additional untrusted measurements, known as post-hoc self-testing. We formalize the method of post-hoc self-testing and establish the condition under which it can be applied. Using this condition, we construct self-tests for all real projective measurements. We build on this result to develop an iterative self-testing technique that provides a clear methodology for constructing new self-tests from pre-existing ones.
A systematic review exploring the diversity and food security potential of wild edible plants in Ethiopia
Authors: Tadesse Daniel , Masresha Getinet , Lulekal Ermias , Wondafrash Melaku
Published: August 2024

Wild edible plants (WEPs) are important food sources globally due to their accessibility and affordability. In Ethiopia, where diverse cultural groups consume WEPs, this systematic review explores their diversity, edible parts, and role in supporting food security. The review examined 38 original studies on the ethnobotany of WEPs in Ethiopia from 2000 to 2022. It identified a total of 651 WEP species from 343 genera and 94 families, with the Fabaceae family having the most species (51). Herbs and shrubs were the predominant growth habits, and fruits were the most consumed plant parts. The review prioritized nine WEP species for cultivation and promotion. However, threats such as overgrazing, agricultural expansion, and the use of woody species for construction, firewood, and charcoal have depleted WEP resources and eroded traditional knowledge about their use. The review suggests that WEPs have the potential to contribute to food and nutritional security in Ethiopia if these threats are effectively managed. However, the limited coverage of ethnobotanical studies on WEPs requires further investigation. The study recommends integrating the prioritized WEPs into the national food system for promotion, cultivation, and nutrient analysis to evaluate their nutritional bioavailability.
Autistic adults have insight into their relative face recognition ability
Authors: Gehdu Bayparvah Kaur , Press Clare , Gray Katie L. H. , Cook Richard
Published: August 2024

The PI20 is a self-report questionnaire that assesses the presence of lifelong face recognition difficulties. The items on this scale ask respondents to assess their face recognition ability relative to the rest of the population, either explicitly or implicitly. Recent reports suggest that the PI20 scores of autistic participants exhibit little or no correlation with their performance on the Cambridge Face Memory Test—a key measure of face recognition ability. These reports are suggestive of a meta-cognitive deficit whereby autistic individuals are unable to infer whether their face recognition is impaired relative to the wider population. In the present study, however, we observed significant correlations between the PI20 scores of 77 autistic adults and their performance on two variants of the Cambridge Face Memory Test. These findings indicate that autistic individuals can infer whether their face recognition ability is impaired. Consistent with previous research, we observed a wide spread of face recognition abilities within our autistic sample. While some individuals approached ceiling levels of performance, others met the prevailing diagnostic criteria for developmental prosopagnosia. This variability showed little or no association with non-verbal intelligence, autism severity, or the presence of co-occurring alexithymia or ADHD.
Long-term trends of pH, alkalinity, and hydrogen ion concentration in an upwelling-dominated coastal ecosystem: Ría de Vigo, NW Spain
Authors: Cameselle Sara , Velo Antón , Doval María Dolores , Broullón Daniel , Pérez Fiz F.
Published: August 2024

The present study focuses on the Ría de Vigo (NW Spain), a coastal embayment influenced by the Canary Current Upwelling System, which is among the world’s significant Eastern Boundary Upwelling Ecosystems. The research assesses historical changes in the marine carbonate system by generating 25-year weekly time series at six stations . Assessing ocean acidification in the region is complex due to diverse factors influencing coastal carbon dynamics, making predictions more challenging. To capture the specific dynamics in Ría de Vigo, ensembles of Neural Networks were applied. These networks were trained with a data set obtained in several oceanographic cruises, in order to retrieve pH, hydrogen ion concentration and alkalinity, achieving a root mean square error of 0.0272 pH units, 0.588 nmol $$\hbox {kg}^{-1}$$

kg

-
1

, and 10.6 $$\upmu$$
μ
mol $$\hbox {kg}^{-1}$$

kg

-
1

, respectively. Subsequently, time series of the selected variables were generated, applying data of predictors measured at the aforementioned stations . An increase in normalized alkalinity was observed for all stations, except in the surface layer at the innermost location. A decrease in pH and an increase in hydrogen ion concentration were observed for all points, with trends that exceed reported rates of ocean acidification in the open ocean.
Towards 3D determination of the surface roughness of core–shell microparticles as a routine quality control procedure by scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Hülagü Deniz , Tobias Charlie , Dao Radek , Komarov Pavel , Rurack Knut , Hodoroaba Vasile-Dan
Published: August 2024

Recently, we have developed an algorithm to quantitatively evaluate the roughness of spherical microparticles using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The algorithm calculates the root-mean-squared profile roughness (RMS-RQ) of a single particle by analyzing the particle’s boundary. The information extracted from a single SEM image yields however only two-dimensional (2D) profile roughness data from the horizontal plane of a particle. The present study offers a practical procedure and the necessary software tools to gain quasi three-dimensional (3D) information from 2D particle contours recorded at different particle inclinations by tilting the sample (stage). This new approach was tested on a set of polystyrene core-iron oxide shell-silica shell particles as few micrometer-sized beads with different (tailored) surface roughness, providing the proof of principle that validates the applicability of the proposed method. SEM images of these particles were analyzed by the latest version of the developed algorithm, which allows to determine the analysis of particles in terms of roughness both within a batch and across the batches as a routine quality control procedure. A separate set of particles has been analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) as a powerful complementary surface analysis technique integrated into SEM, and the roughness results have been compared.
The impact of CLDN18.2 expression on effector cells mediating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity in gastric cancer
Authors: Matsuishi Akira , Nakajima Shotaro , Saito Motonobu , Saito Katsuharu , Fukai Satoshi , Tsumuraya Hideaki , Kanoda Ryo , Kikuchi Tomohiro , Nirei Azuma , Kaneta Akinao , Okayama Hirokazu , Mimura Kosaku , Hanayama Hiroyuki , Sakamoto Wataru , Momma Tomoyuki , Saze Zenichiro , Kono Koji
Published: August 2024

Activating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) by targeting claudin-18 isoform 2 (CLDN18.2) using zolbetuximab, a monoclonal antibody against CLDN18.2, has been considered a promising novel therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer (GC). However, the impact of CLDN18.2 expression on natural killer (NK) cells and monocytes/macrophages—crucial effector cells of ADCC—in GC has not been fully investigated. In the present study, we assessed the impact of CLDN18.2 expression on clinical outcomes, molecular features, and the frequencies of tumor-infiltrating NK cells and macrophages, as well as peripheral blood NK cells and monocytes, in GC by analyzing our own GC cohorts. The expression of CLDN18.2 did not significantly impact clinical outcomes of GC patients, while it was significantly and positively associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) status and PD-L1 expression. The frequencies of tumor-infiltrating NK cells and macrophages, as well as peripheral blood NK cells and monocytes, were comparable between CLDN18.2-positive and CLDN18.2-negative GCs. Importantly, both CLDN18.2 expression and the number of tumor-infiltrating NK cells were significantly higher in EBV-associated GC compared to other molecular subtypes. Our findings support the effectiveness of zolbetuximab in CLDN18.2-positive GC, and offer a novel insight into the treatment of this cancer type, highlighting its potential effectiveness for CLDN18.2-positive/EBV-associated GC.
Spatial profiling of non-small cell lung cancer provides insights into tumorigenesis and immunotherapy response
Authors: Kim Joon , Yong Seung Hyun , Jang Gyuho , Kim Yumin , Park Raekil , Koh Hyun-Hee , Kim Sehui , Oh Chang-Myung , Lee Sang Hoon
Published: August 2024

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, the prognosis remains unfavorable, especially in metastatic cases. This study aims to identify molecular changes in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients based on their response to treatment. Using tumor and matched immune cell rich peritumoral tissues, we perform a retrospective, comprehensive spatial transcriptomic analysis of a proven malignant NSCLC sample treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). In addition to T cells, other immune cell types, such as B cells and macrophages, were also activated in responders to ICI treatment. In particular, B cells and B cell-mediated immunity pathways are consistently found to be activated. Analysis of the histologic subgroup (lung squamous cell carcinoma, LUSC; lung adenocarcinoma, LUAD) of NSCLC also confirms activation of B cell mediated immunity. Analysis of B cell subtypes shows that B cell subtypes were more activated in immune cell-rich tissues near tumor tissue. Furthermore, increased expression of B cell immunity-related genes is associated with better prognosis. These findings provide insight into predicting ICI treatment responses and identifying appropriate candidates for immunotherapy in NSCLC patients.
Identification and characterisation of two functional antibiotic MATE efflux pumps in the archaeon Halorubrum amylolyticum
Authors: Fakhoury Asma A. , Thompson Thomas P. , Rahman Khondaker Miraz , Megaw Julianne , McAteer Matthew I. , Skvortsov Timofey , Kelly Stephen A. , Gilmore Brendan F.
Published: August 2024

Multidrug efflux pumps have been found to play a crucial role in drug resistance in bacteria and eukaryotes. In this study, we investigated the presence of functional multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) efflux pumps, inferred from whole genome sequencing, in the halophilic archaeon Halorubrum amylolyticum CSM52 using Hoechst 33342 dye accumulation and antimicrobial sensitivity tests in the presence and absence of efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs). The whole genome sequence of H. amylolyticum CSM52 contained two putative MATE-type efflux pump genes, which may contribute to the inherent resistance to conventional antimicrobial agents reported in archaea. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the wild-type H. amylolyticum CSM52 testing revealed a lack of sensitivity to a wide range of antimicrobials, including glycopeptides, aminoglycosides, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol. However, the presence of EPIs, such as thioridazine, fluoxetine, and chlorpromazine, significantly increased the susceptibility of H. amylolyticum CSM52 to a number of these antimicrobials, indicating the potential involvement of efflux pumps in the observed resistance. A molecular modelling study with EPIs and substrate antimicrobials provided important insights into the molecular interactions with the putative transporter. It suggests that the occupancy of the transporter channel by EPIs has the potential to impact the efflux of antimicrobials. Phylogenetic analysis of the amino acid sequences of both MATE pumps showed low similarity with bacterial representatives, suggesting the presence of novel and distinct MATE efflux pumps in archaea. Our findings provide the first experimental evidence of active antibiotic efflux mechanisms in archaea and their potential roles in antimicrobial resistance, broadening our understanding of mechanisms of archaeal antimicrobial resistance, an overlooked aspect of AMR research.
New tactics in the design of theranostic radiotracers
Authors: Berton Cesare , Klingler Simon , Prytuliak Stanislav , Holland Jason P.
Published: August 2024

In the context of molecularly targeted radiotherapy, dosimetry concerns in off-target tissues are a major limitation to the more wide-spread application of radiopharmaceuticals to treat diseases like cancer. Reducing off-target accumulation of radionuclides in background tissues, whilst maintaining high and specific uptake in disease sites and improving the therapeutic window, requires rethinking common radiotracer design concepts. This article explores ways in which innovative radiotracer chemistry (the making and breaking of bonds) is used to modify interactions with the host organism to control excretion profiles and dosimetry at the tissue-specific level.
Unraveling the dynamics of magnetization in topological insulator-ferromagnet heterostructures via spin-orbit torque
Authors: Oh Taekoo , Nagaosa Naoto
Published: August 2024

Spin–orbit coupling is a relativistic effect coupling the orbital angular momentum with the spin, which determines the physical properties of condensed matter. For instance, the spin–orbit coupling strongly influences spin dynamics, opening the possibility for promising applications. The topological insulator–ferromagnet heterostructure is a typical example exhibiting spin dynamics driven by current-induced spin–orbit torque. Recent observations of the sign flip of Hall conductivity imply that the spin–orbit torque is strong enough to flip magnetization within this heterostructure. Motivated by this, our study elucidates the conditions governing spin flips by studying the magnetization dynamics. We establish that the interplay between spin-anisotropy and spin–orbit torque plays a crucial role in the magnetization dynamics. Furthermore, we categorize various modes of magnetization dynamics, constructing a comprehensive phase diagram across distinct energy scales, damping constants, and applied frequencies. We also consider the effect of a magnetic field on the magnetization dynamics. This research not only offers insights into controlling spin direction but also charts a new pathway to the practical application of spin–orbit coupled systems.
Broadband transparent Huygens' spaceplates
Authors: Díaz-Fernández Francisco J. , Máñez-Espina Luis Manuel , Díaz-Rubio Ana , Asadchy Viktar
Published: August 2024

Spaceplates have emerged in the context of nonlocal metasurfaces, enabling the compression of optical systems by minimizing the required empty space between their components. In this work, we design and analyze spaceplates that support resonances with opposite symmetries, operating under the so-called Huygens’ condition. Using the temporal coupled-mode theory, we demonstrate that the spatial compression provided by Huygens’ spaceplates is twice that of conventional single-resonance counterparts. Additionally, they can support broader operational bandwidths and numerical apertures, facilitating the reduction of chromatic aberrations. Moreover, Huygens’ spaceplates maintain nearly full transparency over a wide frequency and angular range, allowing their straightforward cascading for multi-frequency broadband operation. Finally, we propose a physical implementation of a Huygens’ spaceplate for optical frequencies based on a photonic crystal slab geometry.
Analysis, recent challenges and capabilities of spin-photon interfaces in Silicon carbide-on-insulator
Authors: Bader Joshua , Arianfard Hamed , Peruzzo Alberto , Castelletto Stefania
Published: August 2024

Silicon-carbide (SiC) is a promising platform for long-distance quantum information transmission via single photons, offering long spin coherence qubits, excellent electronic and optical characteristics and CMOS-compatibility. We review key properties of spin-photon interface components for future deployment on the SiC-on-insulator platform with detailed insights provided for available color centers as well as integrated photonic circuits. The associated challenges to achieve high-fidelity multi-qubit control and photon-mediated entanglement on-chip are elaborated, perspectively.
Peripheral insulin resistance attenuates cerebral glucose metabolism and impairs working memory in healthy adults
Authors: Deery Hamish A. , Liang Emma , Di Paolo Robert , Voigt Katharina , Murray Gerard , Siddiqui M. Navyaan , Egan Gary F. , Moran Chris , Jamadar Sharna D.
Published: August 2024

People with insulin resistance are at increased risk for cognitive decline. Insulin resistance has previously been considered primarily a condition of ageing but it is increasingly seen in younger adults. It is possible that impaired insulin function in early adulthood has both proximal effects and moderates or even accelerates changes in cerebral metabolism in ageing. Thirty-six younger (mean 27.8 years) and 43 older (mean 75.5) participants completed a battery of tests, including blood sampling, cognitive assessment and a simultaneous PET/MR scan. Cortical thickness and cerebral metabolic rates of glucose were derived for 100 regions and 17 functional networks. Older adults had lower rates of regional cerebral glucose metabolism than younger adults across the brain even after adjusting for lower cortical thickness in older adults. Higher fasting blood glucose was also associated with lower regional cerebral glucose metabolism in older adults. In younger adults, higher insulin resistance was associated with lower rates of regional cerebral glucose metabolism but this was not seen in older adults. The largest effects of insulin resistance in younger adults were in prefrontal, parietal and temporal regions; and in the control, salience ventral attention, default and somatomotor networks. Higher rates of network glucose metabolism were associated with lower reaction time and psychomotor speed. Higher levels of insulin resistance were associated with lower working memory. Our results underscore the importance of insulin sensitivity and glycaemic control to brain health and cognitive function across the adult lifespan, even in early adulthood.
Earthworms and Their Associated Microorganisms in Recycling of Organic Wastes for Sustainable Development
Authors: Bhat Sartaj Ahmad , Wei Yongfen , Li Fusheng
Published: August 2024

Earthworms are well known as ecosystem engineers as they are essential to ecosystem functions. In vermicomposting, earthworms process organic waste into a uniform, humus-like substance recognized as vermicompost. The decomposition rate of organic wastes during vermicomposting and consequently the quality of the finished product are primarily influenced by the effects that earthworms have on microorganisms. The substance’s passage through the earthworm’s gut supports the presence of a smaller but more vigorous microbial community in the material that is being ingested. This chapter will emphasize how the earthworm gut is crucial in shaping the microbial population. An overview of the key modifications to microbial community structure and activity seen during vermicomposting is also provided.
Microalgal Systems: Exploring the Symbiotic Synergies Through Organic Wastewater Bioremediation for Environmental Stewardship
Authors: Ghosh Poulomi , Das Saprativ P.
Published: August 2024

Global estimates specify 450 billion m3 of annual water consumption in industrial and domestic use. Approximately, 60% of wastewater generated from these applications is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus along with other trace elements and can be used as a substrate for microalgal growth to produce ∼23.5 billion tons of oil. The processing of various categories of wastewater through conventional physico-chemical or non-microalgal approaches could either be energy-intensive or unproductive. Improvement and optimization of an integrated system for microalgae delivering a sustainable cost-effective approach towards wastewater bioremediation along with simultaneous creation of commercially value-added products is of prime concern. This chapter deeply portrays the latest developments specifying wastewater characteristics, pretreatment strategies, technological prerequisites for the efficacious amalgamation of various wastewater treatments coupled with substantial microalgal cultivation systems emphasizing the various mechanisms of microalgae-mediated pollutant elimination, prospects of the treatment of diverse varieties of wastewaters using microalgal bioremediation and evaluation of capital and operational expenditures for large-scale industrial applications.
Heavy Metal Remediation by Microorganisms in the Total Environment: Effects of Processing Conditions and Recent Advances
Authors: Yanthan Rollen , Dey Tuhinendu , Das Suchismita
Published: August 2024

Heavy metals are found in nature in trace amounts but, due to rapid industrialization, urbanization and various anthropogenic activities, their concentration in the environment has reached an undesired level in recent years. Pollution by heavy metals has become a serious threat to human health due to their toxicity and long-term persistence in the environment. The use of microorganisms in detoxifying heavy metals has great potential in tackling these adverse effects. Microbial bioremediation is an economical and effective technique to alleviate the toxic forms of heavy metals by converting them into less toxic forms. Upon inoculation, these microbes help reduce the elevated concentrations of heavy metals in both soil and plants. The long-term exposure of some microorganisms to high concentrations of heavy metals has made them resistant and acquire the ability to remove different heavy metals using different types of mechanisms. The processing conditions that affect microbial remediation include temperature, pH, and different substrates. Recent technological advances in microbial remediation have suggested it to be a better alternative to other approaches. The study of such microbes and their interaction is crucial to understanding and developing strategies for future research directions.
Gene Editing and Systems Biology Tools for Agrochemical Bioremediation: Trends and Future Perspectives
Authors: Sharma Shivali , Sharma Sunny , Sharma Gaurav , Rana Vishal S. , Rana Neerja , Bhat Sartaj Ahmad , Kumar Vineet
Published: August 2024

Agricultural biochemicals are key components for the enhancement of crop yield. While their contribution is significant, these substances have serious repercussions, such as soil and environmental pollution. Gene editing has emerged as a prominent trend in improving bioremediation through processes, encompassing the elimination of xenobiotics, transformation of toxic compounds into a less toxic form, and degradation of agrochemicals into simple components. The scientific community globally has garnered momentum in response to the diverse toxicity, persistent nature, resistance behaviour, and indiscriminate utilization of agrochemicals for various management purposes. The most effective approach currently available for agrochemical handling is bioremediation, chosen for its efficiency, economic viability, and environmental friendliness. With a special emphasis on the application of gene editing in agrochemical bioremediation, bioaugmentation, and phytoremediation, this chapter presents an arena of advanced technologies, including gene editing, genetic and metabolic engineering, genomics, transcriptomics, meta-transcriptomics, nano-biotechnology, immobilization technology, and recombinant technology. In addition, this chapter also articulates the future prospects of agrochemical bioremediation along with its strengths and shortcomings.
Microdroplet chemical reactor prototype based on multiplexed electrospray
Authors: Kuleshov Denis O. , Gromov Ivan A. , Pikovskoi Ilya I. , Onuchina Alexandra A. , Voronov Ilya S. , Mazur Dmitrii M. , Lebedev Albert T.
Published: August 2024

The microdroplet chemical reactor prototype based on multiplexed electrospray was fabricated. The apparent acceleration factor value for the reaction of phenylhydrazine with cyclohexanone exceeds 83 million, and the productivity can reach grams/hour.
Advancements in thermo-hydraulic characteristics of printed circuit heat exchangers for extreme operating conditions: a review
Authors: Pandey V. , Kumar P.
Published: August 2024

Printed circuit heat exchangers (PCHEs) are critical components in high temperature-pressure applications, such as nuclear systems and supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) Brayton power cycles.
End‐user engagement in EV charging control at commercial locations through a user‐friendly approach
Authors: Simolin Toni , Attar Mehdi , Repo Sami , Järventausta Pertti
Published: August 2024

Controlled electric vehicle (EV) charging at commercial locations has been seen as the key solution to mitigate the negative effects of uncontrolled charging on the power grid. In the scientific literature, EV users’ willingness to participate in charging control has been analyzed, and various control algorithms have been studied. However, there is a gap regarding the best practices to encourage users to participate in charging control and the potential influences of the EV users’ decisions on charging site operator's profits. In this article, the EV users’ perspective on charging control is assessed to form a user‐friendly charging control approach and compensation scheme for commercial charging locations. Then, simulations are carried out using real charging session data to analyze the potential influences of EV users’ decisions on charging site operator's profits. According to the results, the profits of the charging site operator are more heavily dependent on the number of customers than the optimality of the charging control. Hence, charging site operators should carefully consider the attractiveness of the implemented control strategy to maximize profits.
A novel underwater object detection enhanced algorithm based on YOLOv5‐MH
Authors: Xu Ruishen , Zhu Daqi , Chen Mingzhi
Published: August 2024

Underwater object detection is an important application of underwater vehicles. However, traditional underwater object detection algorithms have several shortcomings in underwater settings. These include imprecise feature extraction, slow detection speeds, and a lack of robustness. To address these shortcomings, a novel approach based on YOLOv5‐MH (Multi‐Head) is proposed in this paper. Firstly, an image enhancement technique is utilised. This technique uses adaptive linear mapping to adjust contrast and improve the quality of underwater images. Secondly, the C2f module for feature extraction is employed to enable more effective capture of object characteristics. Subsequently, the multi‐head self‐attention and coordinate attention are integrated into the network's backbone. This integration increases the attention given to input data, thereby enhancing the network's performance in handling complex tasks. Furthermore, a bidirectional feature pyramid is implemented to adeptly handle objects of varying scales and sizes, and elevate model performance. Finally, through comprehensive testing on the 2018 URPC dataset and deep plastic dataset, this method demonstrates superior performance. This performance is compared to the original YOLOv5 and other similar networks. It holds immense promise for practical applications across a wide spectrum of underwater tasks.