bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morita invariance of unbounded bivariant K-theory
Authors: Kaad Jens
Published: October 2024

We introduce a notion of Morita equivalence for non-selfadjoint operator algebras equipped with a completely isometric involution (operator

$$*$$

∗

-algebras). We then show that the unbounded Kasparov product by a Morita equivalence bimodule induces an isomorphism between equivalence classes of twisted spectral triples over Morita equivalent operator

$$*$$

∗

-algebras. This leads to a tentative definition of unbounded bivariant K-theory and we prove that this bivariant theory is related to Kasparov’s bivariant K-theory via the Baaj-Julg bounded transform. Moreover, the unbounded Kasparov product provides a refinement of the usual interior Kasparov product. We illustrate our results by proving

$$C^1$$

C
1

-versions of well-known

$$C^*$$

C
∗

-algebraic Morita equivalences in the context of hereditary subalgebras, conformal equivalences and crossed products by discrete groups.
Large-scale energy storage for carbon neutrality: thermal energy storage for electrical vehicles
Authors: Zhao Weiwei , Lin Xuefeng , Zhang Tongtong , Ding Yulong
Published: October 2024

Thermal Energy Storage (TES) systems are pivotal in advancing net-zero energy transitions, particularly in the energy sector, which is a major contributor to climate change due to carbon emissions. In electrical vehicles (EVs), TES systems enhance battery performance and regulate cabin temperatures, thus improving energy efficiency and extending vehicle range. The enhanced efficiency reduces overall energy consumption in EVs. Consequently, this reduction in energy demand can lead to decreased infrastructure needs, minimising the scale and investment required in energy production and distribution systems. Furthermore, the integration of TES with existing infrastructure allows for the simultaneous charging of thermal and electrical energy, leveraging waste heat or renewable energy sources. This not only cuts costs by optimizing resource use but also bolsters sustainability by minimising reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The widespread adoption of TES in EVs could transform these vehicles into nodes within large-scale, distributed energy storage systems, thus supporting smart grid operations and enhancing energy security. Strategic investments and regulatory updates are essential to realise a sustainable, carbon-neutral transportation future, underpinned by robust, cost-efficient infrastructure.
The Death of “Jewish Christianity” in the Afterlife of the Clementine Recognitions
Authors: Campbell Warren
Published: October 2024

The editorial history of the two Pseudo-Clementine narratives known as the Recognitions and the Homilies is intricate, to say the least. From an ever-elusive “basic writing” spring two novelistic stories with extensive translation histories, subjected to significant editorial interventions, and anthologized alongside other late ancient and medieval texts. This article focuses on the addition of pseudonymous epistles as prefatory material for these Pseudo-Clementines and follows one of these letters in particular, the Epistula Clementis (Ep. Clem.). The Epistula Clementis accompanies the Latin Pseudo-Clementine Recognitions in a host of medieval anthologies concerned with Petrine hagiography and ecclesial succession, as well as histories, dialogues, and epistolary texts with anti-Judaic resonances. I argue that the Epistula Clementis, as a prefatory text, was integral to the success of the Recognitions in these later anthologies, highlighting the transformative power of the preface upon its associated text as well as the hermeneutical force of the anthology itself.
Franz Rosenzweig’s Account of Revelation in Light of Its Protestant Background
Authors: Herskowitz Daniel M.
Published: October 2024

In the subsection “Grammar of Eros (The Language of Love)” in section 2 of book 2 of The Star of Redemption, the beating heart of the work, Franz Rosenzweig offers a peculiar portrait of the event of revelation. What is presented is a dramatization of the encounter between the loving God and the beloved human soul, a developing scene consisting of a series of utterances and experiences, many of which appear unwarranted. Why does Rosenzweig present revelation in this manner? This article seeks to explain the seemingly arbitrary twists and turns in the dramatized “plot” through which Rosenzweig depicts revelation by demonstrating that it follows in its main features the prevalent Protestant understanding of revelation as encompassing not only divine self-disclosure but also the discovery of sin, confession, forgiveness of sin, reconciliation, attainment of selfhood, and redemption, and is framed according to the directives of the Lutheran foundational principle of “at once a sinner and justified (Simul Justus et Peccator). In so doing, it exhibits Rosenzweig’s deep embeddedness in the Protestant theological discourse of his time and shows that The Star should be understood in light of the contemporary Protestant theology.
God’s Body and the Material Turn: Divine (Im)Materiality in Biblical Theophanies
Authors: Wilson Brittany E.
Published: October 2024

Although biblical scholars are increasingly turning their attention to the question of God’s body, few clarify how precisely this “body” complicates the long-held claim that God is immaterial. The present article addresses this oversight by attending to the ways in which biblical accounts of God’s body intersect with wider tradents of thought on materiality and immateriality, including, above all, the recent cross-disciplinary “turn” known as new materialism. The article begins by discussing what biblical scholars mean when they say “God’s body” and how biblical theophanies in particular complicate the belief that God is immaterial. It then discusses new materialism and how key emphases in this scholarly shift similarly complicate the belief in God’s immateriality. Third and finally, the article returns to biblical theophanies by reading these accounts through a new materialist lens, focusing in particular on God’s manifestations in material, nonhuman forms. In the end, I suggest not only that biblical theophanies problematize traditional ways of conceiving God within the history of biblical interpretation but also that new materialism can better enable us to see how these accounts portray the relationship between God and embodied materialities.
New Temporalities and a Temporal (Re)Turn in New Testament Studies? The Cullmann/Bultmann Debate Revisited
Authors: Edsall Benjamin A.
Published: October 2024

In light of a recent surge of interest in time across a range of disciplines, a case has been made that New Testament studies has experienced a “temporal turn.” This claim raises an important question about how one understands the relation of recent developments to earlier, long-held debates about time among New Testament scholars. This question is answered here by revisiting the “salvation history” debate between Oscar Cullmann and Rudolf Bultmann, with the help of Paul Ricoeur’s analysis in Time and Narrative and in the context of recent trends in work on “temporalities.” This article argues that, although in many respects recent work on time offers fresh language to describe the kinds of time at stake for New Testament scholarship, it is also true that attending to the earlier debates shows how parts of the temporal turn are in fact a return to questions long considered.
What is the usual eating window for children and adolescents aged 6-20 years: a systematic review
Authors: Townley J. , Northstone K. , Hinton E.C. , Hamilton-Shield J.P. , Searle A.J. , Leary S.D
Published: October 2024

This abstract was awarded the Student Competition prize.

Time-limited eating is a dietary intervention whereby calorie intake is limited to a specific window of time during the day(1). The usual eating windows (EW) of adults, and how this can be manipulated for dietary interventions, is well documented(2). However, there is a paucity of data on the usual EW of children and adolescents, which may be a useful intervention for reducing obesity.

The primary objective was to systematically review existing literature on the usual EW of children and adolescents. Secondary objectives were to identify average clock times of first and last food/drink intakes and also variations in EW and clock times by age, nationality or weight status subgroups, if available data allowed.

Two databases (Medline and Embase) were searched for eligible papers published between February 2013 and February 2023. Included papers were forward searched using the citation network on Web of Science. 6347 papers were identified, and after deduplication 4569 papers were screened by two independent reviewers. Methodological quality was assessed using a Joanna Briggs Institute checklist(3).

Ten studies were included, with both observational and experimental designs. These studies had a total population of 4,589 participants, with individual study sample sizes ranging from 22 to 2195. Ages of participants ranged from 6 – 20 years, with six studies involving adolescents alone (≥10 years), and four involving children and adolescents. There were four studies from the USA, two from Germany and one each from Brazil, India, The Netherlands and pan-European.

Narrative synthesis showed large variations in average eating windows from 9.7 to 16.4 hours. Only four studies included clock times of intake, with large variations in both first and last intake times. Five studies were included in a random-effects meta-analysis, in which heterogeneity was considerable (I2 = 95.8%), and pooled duration of usual daily eating was 11.3 hours (95% confidence interval (CI) 10.95, 11.73). Sources of heterogeneity included differences in study design and populations, variation in dietary assessments methods and definition of eating windows. Narrative synthesis of an adolescent sub-group showed eating windows increased as children got older. Four studies were included in a random-effects sub-group meta-analysis, with a pooled EW of 11.2 hours (95% CI 10.27, 12.05; I2 = 96.6%) in adolescents. Insufficient data prevented further subgroup analysis.

In conclusion large variations in eating windows exist across different study populations, with limited data available on first and last intake times; however, the pooled data suggest it may be possible to design time-limited eating interventions in paediatric populations aimed at reducing eating windows. Further high-quality research, of eating windows and associations with health outcomes, is needed.
Assessment of motivating factors to follow a time-restricted eating dietary protocol
Authors: Lages M. , Carmo-Silva S. , Barros R. , Guarino M.P.
Published: October 2024

The number of clinical studies assessing the effects of time-restricted eating (TRE) has increased in recent years(1). The results of the studies conducted on humans demonstrate some health benefits, however, there is still a need to design larger and longer randomized clinical trials to prove the effectiveness and long-term benefits of these types of interventions(2). However, to ensure these health benefits, individuals need to be able to integrate its principles into their daily routines. This work aimed to associate daily habits with the potential adherence to different TRE protocols and to determine the factors that predict adherence to these protocols.

A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire based on a previous study(3), to assess the dietary and sleeping habits, daily routines and willingness to adhere to different windows of time-restricted eating in a sample of Portuguese adults. To analyze the associations between variables, the Spearman correlation coefficient and the Chi-Square test were calculated, and multiple linear regression was performed to identify the predictive factors. Statistical analysis was conducted on IBM SPSS Statistics version 29.0.

130 responses were obtained (26% men, 74% women) with a mean age of 37.9±13.59 years old. On workdays, 60.0% of participants reported a daily eating window (the period between the first and last caloric intake) of 12h-14h, while on free days the highest percentage (41.5%) was between 10h12h. An inverse correlation was observed between age and willingness to adhere to a TRE protocol if there were health benefits (r=-0.356, p<0.001). Moderate correlations were also found between the availability to follow a TRE protocol on work days (r=0.538) and free days (r=0.598) and the potential health benefits of this type of intervention (p<0.001)). Associations were found between sex and potential adherence to the TRE protocol (χ2=10.644, df=2, p=0.005), with a tendency for more men not to adhere to a TRE protocol. There was also an association between body weight management and reducing the eating window by 1h-2h (χ² =24.883, df=12, p=0.015) and 2h-3h (χ²=22.367, df=12, p=0.034). The living situation, motivation for change, income, weight management, cooking knowledge, and working schedule were among the main factors predicting the willingness to adhere to TRE protocols (p<0.05).

People’s willingness and motivation to adhere to TRE protocols outside the controlled environment of a clinical study depends on several factors. The results presented herein provide information that may be central when considering the translation of study results into nutritional practice and counselling.
Emerging Scholars Researching Black British Histories (mid-Eighteenth to mid-Nineteenth Centuries)
Authors: Warren Kristy , Gilmore Annabelle , Marché Montaz
Published: October 2024

Recent years have seen a vast expansion of scholarly interest in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Black British histories, and increasing calls to support the work of early-career scholars (ECRs) in this field. Yet ECRs continue to face several specific challenges in conducting this crucial research. This section consists of a brief introduction and two case studies based on the research and experiences of Ph.D. students Annabelle Gilmore and Montaz Marché. Gilmore aims to amplify the connections between the lives and labour of enslaved people on plantations in Jamaica and the wealth and art collection of William Thomas Beckford, now held at Charlecote Park, from the mid-eighteenth to the mid-nineteenth centuries. Marché seeks to trace the presence of Black women in eighteenth-century London, drawing on archival documents that provide traces of who these women may have been, and confronting the limitations of the traditional archive. Together, these pieces offer a glimpse into how these ECRs are positioning themselves within the historiography as well as considering how they hope to contribute to the field.
Analyzing the seasonality of tuberculosis case notifications in the UK, 2000–2018
Authors: Glaser Lisa , Harris Ross , Mohiyuddin Tehreem , Davidson Jennifer A. , Cox Sharon , Campbell Colin N. J.
Published: October 2024

Globally, there is seasonal variation in tuberculosis (TB) incidence, yet the biological and behavioural or social factors driving TB seasonality differ across countries. Understanding season-specific risk factors that may be specific to the UK could help shape future decision-making for TB control. We conducted a time-series analysis using data from 152,424 UK TB notifications between 2000 and 2018. Notifications were aggregated by year, month, and socio-demographic covariates, and negative binomial regression models fitted to the aggregate data. For each covariate, we calculated the size of the seasonal effect as the incidence risk ratio (IRR) for the peak versus the trough months within the year and the timing of the peak, whilst accounting for the overall trend. There was strong evidence for seasonality (p < 0.0001) with an IRR of 1.27 (95% CI 1.23–1.30). The peak was estimated to occur at the beginning of May. Significant differences in seasonal amplitude were identified across age groups, ethnicity, site of disease, latitude and, for those born abroad, time since entry to the UK. The smaller amplitude in older adults, and greater amplitude among South Asians and people who recently entered the UK may indicate the role of latent TB reactivation and vitamin D deficiency in driving seasonality.
ADAM SMITH ON THE “WRETCHED SPIRIT OF MONOPOLY” IN THE EAST INDIES TRADE
Authors: Donoghue Mark
Published: October 2024

According to Adam Smith, the “wretched spirit of monopoly” dogged the East Indies trade. The regulations that governed the East Indies trade established legal barriers or restrictions to entry and sustained a mercantile community whose interests were “the opposite to that of the great body of the people” (WN IV, ch. iii, p. 494). The East Indies charter conferred a special privilege that shielded the English East India Company from all domestic competition in Asian trade. The East India Company was the complete incarnation of a mercantile system against which Smith had determined to launch “a very violent attack” in Wealth of Nations (Smith 1987, p. 251). Smith’s mistrust of trading bodies like the East India Company was compounded by its having assumed political powers commensurate with the sovereign while still in possession of its monopolistic franchise. Smith’s proposal was, first, to abolish the monopolistic franchise to rid society of “the unfortunate effects of all the regulations of the mercantile system” (WN IV, ch. vii, p. 606), and, second, to reform the East India Company’s administrative duties and functions in the Indian territories. The contention of this paper is that Smith’s call to abolish the East Indies monopoly was inseparable from his appeal for reform of the English East India Company.
The Definition of ‘Covered Entities’ under the GPA: The General Scope and Escape Conditions
Authors: Lian Wenyi
Published: October 2024

The WTO Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) does not legally define what entities should be covered by the Agreement. However, its member Parties list their ‘covered entities’ in a series of schedules. The list approach has complicated accession negotiations and discourages Parties from providing a ‘wider’ range of entity coverage. Moreover, the list approach raises some tensions and a lack of legal certainty, especially concerning those that are not strictly ‘government entities’, such as State-owned enterprises (SOEs). This problem is exacerbated in the case of modern SOEs in developing countries, many of which can bear both public and private features. Given these conditions, the author proposes a definition of ‘covered entities’ to facilitate accession negotiations and the future expansion of the GPA. The proposal is based on a comparative study of the GPA and the EU public procurement regulations. It develops a framework by which all publicly controlled entities are presumably covered by the GPA. Nevertheless, Parties can rebut GPA obligations by proving that an entity competes with other commercial entities under normal market conditions.
Seasonal Early Warning of Impacts of Harmful Algal Blooms on Farmed Shellfish in Coastal Waters of Scotland
Authors: Stoner O. , Economou T. , Brown A. R.
Published: October 2024

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) can produce phycotoxins that accumulate in shellfish and subsequently poison aquatic predators and human consumers, potentially causing significant economic impacts to the shellfish aquaculture industry. HAB events are challenging to foresee as they are driven by complex inter‐annual and seasonal changes in physical, chemical and biological factors. Accounting for these environmental drivers and their interactions in statistical models allows for the development of HAB early warning systems. Typically, these have a forecasting horizon of 1–2 weeks, allowing shellfish businesses and regulators to increase monitoring intensity and take evasive action, including harvesting suspensions to protect consumer health. However, there is critical need for longer‐term predictions of risk, to enable more proactive mitigation, business planning, harvest scheduling and supply chain management. We present a statistical framework for providing seasonal‐scale early warnings of the occurrence and impacts of Dinophysis spp. HABs on shellfish aquaculture in Scotland, UK. We use penalized smooth functions of winter‐spring daily sea surface temperature to predict the severity and impact of ensuing summer blooms, including the percentage of toxicity measurements exceeding the harvesting closure threshold, as well as the anticipated start, end, and overall duration of closures. We illustrate the application of this framework to two Scottish aquaculture regions: One with a high spatial concentration of harvesting sites (Shetland) and one with more dispersed sites (West Scotland and the Hebrides). Through a comprehensive yearly prediction experiment, we demonstrate considerable skill in predicting the impact of unseen HAB seasons at a regional level.
Blowin’ in the Wind: Mapping the Dispersion of Metal(loid)s From Atacama Mining
Authors: Zanetta‐Colombo Nicolás C. , Manzano Carlos A. , Brombierstäudl Dagmar , Fleming Zoë L. , Gayo Eugenia M. , Rubinos David A. , Jerez Óscar , Valdés Jorge , Prieto Manuel , Nüsser Marcus
Published: October 2024

The Atacama Desert’s naturally elevated metal(loid)s pose a unique challenge for assessing the environmental impact of mining, particularly for indigenous communities residing in these areas. This study investigates how copper mining influences the dispersion of these elements in the wind‐transportable fraction (<75 μm) of surface sediments across an 80 km radius. We employed a multi‐pronged approach, utilizing spatial modeling to map element distributions, exponential decay analysis to quantify concentration decline with distance, regime shift modeling to identify dispersion pattern variations, and pollution assessment to evaluate impact. Our results reveal significant mining‐driven increases in surface concentrations of copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), and arsenic (As). Notably, within the first 20 km, concentrations peaked at 1,016 mg kg⁻1 for Cu, 31 mg kg⁻1 for Mo, and a remarkable 165 mg kg⁻1 for As. Cu and Mo displayed significant dispersion, extending up to 50 km from the source. However, As exhibited the most extensive reach, traveling up to 70 km downwind, highlighting the far‐reaching ecological footprint of mining operations. Mineralogical analyses corroborated these findings, identifying mining‐related minerals in surface sediments far beyond the immediate mining area. Although pollution indices based on the proposed Local Geochemical Background reveal significant contamination across the study area, establishing accurate pre‐industrial baseline values is essential for a more reliable assessment. This study challenges the concept of “natural pollution” by demonstrating that human activities exacerbate baseline metal(loid)s levels. Expanding monitoring protocols is imperative to comprehensively assess the combined effects of multiple emission sources, including mining and natural processes, in safeguarding environmental and human health for future generations.
Wildfire Particulates Enhance Phytoplankton Growth and Alter Communities in the South China Sea Under Wind‐Driven Upwelling
Authors: Peng Runqian , Chen Xiaoyan , Wu Qiuyun , Yan Zhaoqian , Fu Yichen , Qin Bo , Hao Ruoxing , Yu Kefu
Published: October 2024

Extreme wildfire events and cyclones are on the rise across tropical regions in response to climate change. Despite assumptions about their impact on phytoplankton through nutrient supplies, field evidence is lacking, and their combined effects remain unclear. In an on‐site microcosm experiment conducted in the Xisha Islands, South China Sea (SCS) after Typhoon Noru, we observed enhanced phytoplankton growth in response to exposure to total suspended particulates (TSP) from wildfires (2 mg/L and 6 mg/L) under wind‐driven upwelling conditions. Upwelled nutrients had a limited effect on Chl‐a concentration due to phosphate depletion, by contrast, wildfire TSP contributed nutrients enriched in nitrogen and phosphate, resulting in a 3.30–5.61‐fold increase in Chl‐a. However, upwelled nutrients increased the diatom‐to‐dinoflagellate ratio from the initial 11.0 to 12.7, TSP at low and high levels reduced the ratio to 0.3–0.8 and significantly altered the communities, with 61.8% of species, including two dominant diatoms, negatively correlated with N and/or P supplies. Species diversity declined significantly at high TSP levels. These findings suggest that enhanced primary productivity by wildfires may come at the cost of an altered phytoplankton community. This field study improves understanding of the effects of simultaneous occurrences of multiple extreme climate events on marine ecosystems.
Long-term three-dimensional high-resolution imaging of live unlabeled small intestinal organoids via low-coherence holotomography
Authors: Lee Mahn Jae , Lee Jaehyeok , Ha Jeongmin , Kim Geon , Kim Hye-Jin , Lee Sumin , Koo Bon-Kyoung , Park YongKeun
Published: October 2024

Organoids, which are miniature in vitro versions of organs, possess significant potential for studying human diseases and elucidating their underlying mechanisms. Live imaging techniques play a crucial role in organoid research and contribute to elucidating the complex structure and dynamic biological phenomena of organoids. However, live, unlabeled high-resolution imaging of native organoids is challenging, primarily owing to the complexities of sample handling and optical scattering inherent in three-dimensional (3D) structures. Additionally, conventional imaging methods fail to capture the real-time dynamic processes of growing organoids. In this study, we introduce low-coherence holotomography as an advanced, label-free, quantitative imaging modality designed to overcome several technical obstacles for long-term live imaging of 3D organoids. We demonstrate the efficacy of low-coherence holotomography by capturing high-resolution morphological details and dynamic activities within mouse small intestinal organoids at subcellular resolution. Moreover, our approach facilitates the distinction between viable and nonviable organoids, significantly enhancing its utility in organoid-based research. This advancement underscores the critical role of live imaging in organoid studies, offering a more comprehensive understanding of these complex systems.
Hepatocyte activation and liver injury following cerebral ischemia promote HMGB1-mediated hepcidin upregulation in hepatocytes and regulation of systemic iron levels
Authors: Davaanyam Dashdulam , Seol Song-I , Oh Sang-A , Lee Hahnbi , Lee Ja-Kyeong
Published: October 2024

We previously reported that high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP), increases intracellular iron levels in the postischemic brain by upregulating hepcidin, a key regulator of iron homeostasis, triggering ferroptosis. Since hepatocytes are the primary cells that produce hepcidin and control systemic iron levels, we investigated whether cerebral ischemia induces hepcidin upregulation in hepatocytes. Following middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in a rodent model, significant liver injury was observed. This injury was evidenced by significantly elevated Eckhoff’s scores and increased serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Additionally, total iron levels were significantly elevated in the liver, with intracellular iron accumulation detected in hepatocytes. Hepcidin expression in the liver, which is primarily localized in hepatocytes, increased significantly starting at 3 h after MCAO and continued to increase rapidly, reaching a peak at 24 h. Interestingly, HMGB1 levels in the liver were also significantly elevated after MCAO, with the disulfide form of HMGB1 being the major subtype. In vitro experiments using AML12 hepatocytes showed that recombinant disulfide HMGB1 significantly upregulated hepcidin expression in a Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)- and RAGE-dependent manner. Furthermore, treatment with a ROS scavenger and a peptide HMGB1 antagonist revealed that both ROS generation and HMGB1 induction contributed to hepatocyte activation and liver damage following MCAO–reperfusion. In conclusion, this study revealed that cerebral ischemia triggers hepatocyte activation and liver injury. HMGB1 potently induces hepcidin not only in the brain but also in the liver, thereby influencing systemic iron homeostasis following ischemic stroke.
Cbx4 SUMOylates BRD4 to regulate the expression of inflammatory cytokines in post-traumatic osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhou Ding , Tian Jia-Ming , Li Zi , Huang Jun
Published: October 2024

Brominated domain protein 4 (BRD4) is a chromatin reader known to exacerbate the inflammatory response in post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) by controlling the expression of inflammatory cytokines. However, the extent to which this regulatory effect is altered after BRD4 translation remains largely unknown. In this study, we showed that the E3 SUMO protein ligase CBX4 (Cbx4) is involved in the SUMO modification of BRD4 to affect its ability to control the expression of the proinflammatory genes IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 in synovial fibroblasts. Specifically, Cbx4-mediated SUMOylation of K1111 lysine residues prevents the degradation of BRD4, thereby activating the transcriptional activities of the IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 genes, which depend on BRD4. SUMOylated BRD4 also recruits the multifunctional methyltransferase subunit TRM112-like protein (TRMT112) to further promote the processing of proinflammatory gene transcripts to eventually increase their expression. In vivo, treatment of PTOA with a Cbx4 inhibitor in rats was comparable to treatment with BRD4 inhibitors, indicating the importance of SUMOylation in controlling BRD4 to alleviate PTOA. Overall, this study is the first to identify Cbx4 as the enzyme responsible for the SUMO modification of BRD4 and highlights the central role of the Cbx4-BRD4 axis in exacerbating PTOA from the perspective of inflammation.
Unveiling the crucial role of ferroptosis in host resistance to streptococcus agalactiae infection
Authors: Yi Jia-xuan , Sun Ze-yu , Liu Peng , Wang Yu-hang , Liu Hui , Lv Qing-yu , Kong De-cong , Huang Wen-hua , Ren Yu-hao , Li Qian , Jiang Yong-qiang , Li Jing , Jiang Hua
Published: October 2024

IL-1β represents an important inflammatory factor involved in the host response against GBS infection. Prior research has suggested a potential involvement of IL-1β in the process of ferroptosis. However, the relationship between IL-1β and ferroptosis in the context of anti-GBS infection remains uncertain. This research demonstrates that the occurrence of ferroptosis is essential for the host’s defense against GBS infection in a mouse model of abdominal infection, with peritoneal macrophages identified as the primary cells undergoing ferroptosis. Further research indicates that IL-1β induces lipid oxidation in macrophages through the upregulation of pathways related to lipid oxidation. Concurrently, IL-1β is not only involved in the initiation of ferroptosis in macrophages, but its production is intricately linked to the onset of ferroptosis. Ultimately, we posit that ferroptosis acts as a crucial initiating factor in the host response to GBS infection, with IL-1β playing a significant role in the resistance to infection by serving as a key inducer of ferroptosis.
The magic, memory, and curiosity fMRI dataset of people viewing magic tricks
Authors: Meliss Stefanie , Pascua-Martin Cristina , Skipper Jeremy I. , Murayama Kou
Published: October 2024

Videos of magic tricks offer lots of opportunities to study the human mind. They violate the expectations of the viewer, causing prediction errors, misdirect attention, and elicit epistemic emotions. Herein we describe and share the Magic, Memory, and Curiosity (MMC) Dataset where 50 participants watched 36 magic tricks filmed and edited specifically for functional magnetic imaging (fMRI) experiments. The MMC Dataset includes a contextual incentive manipulation, curiosity ratings for the magic tricks, and incidental memory performance tested a week later. We additionally measured individual differences in working memory and constructs relevant to motivated learning. fMRI data were acquired before, during, and after learning. We show that both behavioural and fMRI data are of high quality, as indicated by basic validation analysis, i.e., variance decomposition as well as intersubject correlation and seed-based functional connectivity, respectively. The richness and complexity of the MMC Dataset will allow researchers to explore dynamic cognitive and motivational processes from various angles during task and rest.
Assessing vaccinated persons’ intention to take the COVID-19 boosters using a combined theoretical framework: an online survey in Egypt
Authors: El Tantawi Maha , Elwan Amira H. , Hassan Reham , Mohamed Nesreen Farouk , Elsheikh Enas I. , Hassan Heba Ali , Abdelwahab Sayed F.
Published: October 2024

Vaccines, like the Corona Virus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, can control diseases, but vaccine hesitancy reduces their use. It is important to assess the intention to use COVID-19 vaccines boosters and the determinants of this intention to help in developing programs to promote the uptake of boosters. An online survey collected data from adults in Egypt between March and June 2022 using a questionnaire that assessed demographic characteristics, and constructs of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and the Health Belief Model (HBM). The survey was uploaded to SurveyMonkey and the links were posted on social media platforms. Binary regression analysis was used and the dependent variable was intention to use boosters of COVID-19 vaccines. The independent variables were indicators of the HBM including perceived susceptibility to COVID-19 infection (medical history) and possibility of disease prevention (awareness of the availability of types of COVID-19 vaccines); and indicators of the TPB including attitude toward COVID-19 vaccines (that they are harmful, that they may lead to death and confidence in locally and foreign manufactured vaccines), perceived norms (the percentage of vaccinated persons in one’s circle) and perceived control over booster uptake (presence of government mandates for COVID-19 vaccination). The confounders were sociodemographic factors (age, sex, education, and place of residence). Complete responses were available from 1113 out of 1401 participants (79.4%), with mean (SD) age = 25 (9.5) years, of whom, 66.7% (n = 742) were females and 68.6% (n = 764) were university students. About 39.4% and 31.2% indicated that they would get or would definitely get the booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccines. In multiple regression, intention to use a booster dose was significantly related to not agreeing (AOR = 4.87, P < 0.001) or not agreeing at all (AOR = 8.46, P = 0.001) that vaccines are harmful and to having no confidence (AOR = 0.21, P < 0.001) or no confidence at all (AOR = 0.14, P < 0.001) in foreign-manufactured vaccines. Most university-educated Egyptians in the study intended to take the COVID-19 vaccine booster dose and this intention was associated with attitude toward the harm of the vaccine and confidence in foreign-manufactured vaccines. Awareness campaigns are needed to counteract misinformation and promote booster dose uptake.
Complex trade-offs in a dual-target visual search task are indexed by lateralised ERP components
Authors: Henare Dion T. , Tünnermann Jan , Wagner Ilja , Schütz Alexander C. , Schubö Anna
Published: October 2024

In everyday tasks, the choices we make incorporate complex trade-offs between conflicting factors that affect how we will achieve our goals. Previous experimental research has used dual-target visual search to determine how people flexibly adjust their behaviour and make choices that optimise their decisions. In this experiment, we leveraged a visual search task that incorporates complex trade-offs, and electroencephalography (EEG), to understand how neural mechanisms of selective attention contribute to choice behaviour in these tasks. On each trial, participants could choose to respond to the gap location on either of two possible targets. Each target was colour coded such that colour indicated which of the two had the easier gap discrimination. Orthogonally, we manipulated the set size of coloured distractors to modulate how efficiently each target could be found. As a result, optimised task performance required participants to trade-off conflicts between the ease of finding a target given the current set size, and the ease of making its associated gap discrimination. Our results confirm that participants are able to flexibly adjust their behaviour, and trade-off these two factors to maintain their response speed and accuracy. Additionally, the N2pc and SPCN components elicited by search displays could reliably predict the choice that participants would ultimately make on a given trial. These results suggest that initial attentional processes may help to determine the choice participants make, highlighting the central role that attention may play in optimising performance on complex tasks.
A local hydroxyl group-modified copper site directs the oxidation of carbon monoxide
Authors: Cao Guoqiang , Yi Nan
Published: October 2024

Fewer localised hydroxyl groups on the surface of copper–titanium dioxide (Cu–TiO2) result in a higher rate in the oxidation of carbon monoxide.
Electrochemically grafted gallic acid-chitosan: a metal-free in situ redox platform for regiospecific oligopeptide-viral spike protein interaction
Authors: Krishnan Vinoth , Sivakumar Chinnaiah , Babu Kannadasan Anand , Vigneswari Sevakumaran , Lakshminarayanan Rajamani , Natarajan Sudhakar , Veerapandian Murugan
Published: October 2024

Electrochemical grafting of gallic acid with chitosan (EgGC) on a multitude of substrates exhibiting reversible oxidoreduction suitable for disposable label-free electrochemical biosensor construction.
Three peroxomorphic H2O2 adducts of antibiotic furacin: the first cases of 2D hydrogen-bonded peroxide layers and concerted flip-flop hydrogen disorder of peroxide species
Authors: Churakov Andrei V.
Published: October 2024

The first case of flip-flop hydrogen disorder of H2O2.
Quantum chemistry study on the hyper-Rayleigh scattering optical activity of R-carvone and (1R,5R)-α-pinene
Authors: Bonvicini Andrea , Champagne Benoît
Published: October 2024

In this work, the HRS-OA circular differential scattering ratios of medium-size chiral molecules, R-carvone and (1R,5R)-α-pinene, has been computed by means of TD-DFT calculations.
Symmetry reduction induced by argon tagging gives access to low-lying excited states of FeH+ in the overtone region of the Fe–H stretching mode
Authors: Jin Shan , Juanes Marcos , van der Linde Christian , Ončák Milan , Beyer Martin K.
Published: October 2024

The overtone of the Fe–H stretch in ArFeH+ is observed by argon tagging, but the low-lying electronic transition lights up only in the non-linear Ar2FeH+ species.
Cost-informed Bayesian reaction optimization
Authors: Schoepfer Alexandre A. , Weinreich Jan , Laplaza Ruben , Waser Jerome , Corminboeuf Clemence
Published: October 2024

Cost-informed Bayesian optimization (CIBO) is a method for chemical reaction optimization that incorporates reagent and experimentation costs, to significantly reduce expenses while maintaining efficiency.
Ugi's amine based coordination polymers as synergistic catalysts for the electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide
Authors: Khrizanforov Mikhail N. , Naileva Farida F. , Ivshin Kamil A. , Zagidullin Almaz A. , Samorodnova Anastasiia P. , Milyukova Polina V. , Shekurov Ruslan P. , Laskin Artem I. , Novikov Alexander S. , Miluykov Vasily A.
Published: October 2024

Integration of ferrocenyl and amine-functionalized MOFs enhances CO2 capture and reduction efficiency.
Excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) active interwoven polycatenated coordination polymer for selective detection of Al3+ and Ag+ ions along with water detection in less polar solvents
Authors: Maiti Anupam , Kumar Rakesh , Mahato Bidyadhar , Ghoshal Debajyoti
Published: October 2024

An ESIPT active coordination polymer is successfully synthesized, exhibiting ESIPT induced blue shift for Al3+ ions and ESIPT-off for Ag+ ions. The material can also detect polar water, dimethylformamide and methanol in less polar organic solvents.
Embedding the intermetallic Pt5Ce alloy in mesopores through Pt–C coordination layer interactions as a stable electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Jiang Nannan , Wang Hao , Jin Huihui , Liu Xuwei , Guan Lunhui
Published: October 2024

E-Pt5Ce with a rich Pt–C coordination layer prepared by a rapid Joule thermal shock method exhibits high oxygen reduction activity and superb stability.
Concluding remarks: Faraday Discussion on NMR crystallography
Authors: Ashbrook Sharon E.
Published: October 2024

This Faraday Discussion explored the field of NMR crystallography, considering recent developments in experimental and theoretical approaches, new advances in machine learning and applications to disordered, amorphous and dynamic materials.
Efficient solution-processed fluorescent OLEDs realized by removing charge trapping emission loss of BODIPY fluorochrome
Authors: Chen Lisi , Chen Mei , Lan Yeying , Chang Yongxin , Qiao Xianfeng , Tao Chunlan , Zhao Xiaolong , Qin Dongdong , Zhang Yuwei , Zhang Baohua , Niu Li
Published: October 2024

Using a BDP-2 fluorochrome, an ultra-low doping strategy is suggested to develop solution-processed TADF-sensitized OLEDs without charge trapping emission loss for the first time, achieving a record EQEmax. level of 21.5%.
Research progress on modification of cathodes for aqueous zinc ion batteries
Authors: Li Qing , Chen Lizhen , Wang Yingying , Pan Tao , Pang Huan
Published: October 2024

The review covers cathode materials for AZIBs, focusing on design strategies, electrochemical performance, and modifications. It highlights challenges and suggests future research directions for improvement.
Mn-doped cobalt oxide dodecahedron nanocages as an efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst for zinc–air batteries
Authors: Terlapu Sai Vani , Bauri Ranjit
Published: October 2024

Mn-doped cobalt oxide prepared by utilizing Co-ZIF as the precursor produced a porous nanocage structure and exhibited excellent ORR and OER activity.
Synergistic interaction and hybrid association of conducting polymer photocatalysts/photoelectrodes for emerging visible light active photocatalytic applications
Authors: Hasnan Nur Shamimie Nadzwin , Nordin Nurul Atikah , Mohamed Mohamad Azuwa
Published: October 2024

This review emphasises the synergistic interaction in conducting polymer hybrids for boosted visible-light photocatalysis, focusing on enhancing optoelectronic properties.
Oxygen substitution at the unbonded S site for excellent wet-air stability and lithium compatibility of Br-rich Li-argyrodite solid-state electrolytes
Authors: Shi Haiting , Xu Tong , Wang Daoxi , Wu Xianyan , Liang Shuaitong , Liang Yaohui , Li Hao , Xu Zhiwei
Published: October 2024

The Li5.6PS4.45O0.15Br1.4 electrolyte prepared by the substitution of O on the S(4d) site has not only high ionic conductivity but also ultra-high lithium metal compatibility and wet-air stability.
Quantitative multiplexing of uric acid and creatinine using polydisperse plasmonic nanoparticles enabled by electrochemical-SERS and machine learning
Authors: Jones Tabitha , Zhou Deyue , Liu Jia , Parkin Ivan P. , Lee Tung-Chun
Published: October 2024

Electrochemical SERS and machine learning are combined to enable quantitative multiplexed detection of uric acid (UA) and creatinine (CRN). Using polydisperse Ag nanoparticles, limits of detection of 0.13 μM and 0.35 μM for UA and CRN are achieved.
Chitosan-functionalized nanobubbles for precision oncology: advances in targeted cancer therapeutics
Authors: Pandey Vivek , Pandey Tejasvi
Published: October 2024

The convergence of nanotechnology and cancer therapeutics has opened new frontiers in the development of advanced drug delivery systems.
Exciplex-forming co-host systems featuring highly twisted bis-(N-carbazolyl)benzene-based donors for high-efficiency orange OLEDs
Authors: Yi Rong-Huei , Chen Yi-Sheng , Luo Dian , Chen Hao , Liu Shun-Wei , Wong Ken-Tsung
Published: October 2024

New exciplex-forming systems generated by mixing new highly twisted carbazole-based donors and a PO-T2T acceptor are developed as exciton-harvesting hosts of a π–A–π-type fluorescence emitter to make high-efficiency orange-red OLEDs.
Effectiveness of the Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol for Children With Childhood Apraxia of Speech and Comorbidities When Delivered in a Dyadic and Group Format
Authors: Namasivayam Aravind K. , Cheung Karina , Atputhajeyam Bavika , Petrosov Julia , Branham Miriam , Grover Vikas , van Lieshout Pascal
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The current study is a Phase I clinical study with the goal of determining feasibility and the effectiveness of the Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol (K-SLP) for children with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) and comorbidities. We hypothesized that K-SLP intervention would result in improved outcomes and maintenance of treatment effect at 3–4 months postintervention.

Method:

Single-subject experimental design with multiple baselines across behaviors was replicated across a group of six children. Five out of six participants completed the study. The K-SLP intervention was administered in dyads four times a week for three consecutive weeks. Outcomes included assessment of word/syllable shapes, articulation accuracy, speech intelligibility, and functional communication. Treatment progress was measured through: (a) the administration of custom probe word lists and (b) assessments carried out at pretreatment, immediately following intervention and approximately 3–4 months after the study period.

Results:

Four out of five participants demonstrated significant improvements to words targeted in treatment and three out of five generalized these to untreated words. Furthermore, three out of five participants showed immediate and clinically significant posttreatment improvements in speech intelligibility and functional outcomes, and this increased to four out of five participants at 3–4 months follow-up.

Conclusions:

The study provides preliminary support for the effectiveness of the K-SLP program when delivered in dyads to children with CAS with comorbidities. The study replicates earlier findings and reaffirms the positive outcomes of K-SLP for children with CAS.
Vocal Characteristics of Children With Cerebral Palsy and Anarthria
Authors: Long Helen L. , Hustad Katherine C.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the vocal characteristics of children with cerebral palsy (CP) and anarthria using the stage model of vocal development.

Method:

Vocal characteristics of 39 children with CP and anarthria around 4 years of age were analyzed from laboratory-based caregiver–child interactions. Perceptual coding analysis was conducted using the Stark Assessment of Early Vocal Development–Revised to examine vocal complexity, volubility, and consonant diversity.

Results:

Children predominately produced vocalizations corresponding to the two earliest stages of vocal development characterized by vowel-like utterances. They showed a limited attainment of consonantal features with low consonant diversity and variably low vocal rates.

Conclusions:

Our results demonstrate that underlying neurological impairments resulting in an anarthric status in children with CP affect the progression of speech motor development and their ability to advance beyond early vocal stages. These findings highlight the importance of considering alternative communication modalities for children demonstrating similar vocal characteristics beyond expected periods of development.