bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal behaviour of Paraffin-MWCNT stabilized by Sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate nano-enhanced phase change material for energy storage applications
Authors: Bhutto Yasir Ali , Pandey A. K. , Saidur R. , Laghari Imtiaz Ali , Buddhi D. , Tyagi V.V.
Published: December 2023

The Phase change materials (PCMs) possess the great potential to store renewable and sustainable thermal energy that can mitigate the issue of energy to a great extent. However, the low thermal conductivity hinders the extensive use of PCM in various applications. To alleviate this deficiency, the PCMs are often incorporated with highly conductive nanoparticles. The carbon-based nanoparticles are highly regarded to be a promising option because of their elevated thermal conductivity like Multiwall carbon-nanotube (MWCNT). However, these highly conductive nanoparticles sometimes exhibit the issue of non-uniform dispersion with PCM. In this paper, we report the use of surface-modified MWCNT by using stabilized Sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate surfactant (SDBS) with Paraffin wax (PW) RT47 at wt% 0.1 and 0.3 of MWCNT. The sample is created by using two-step method. Further, for characterization; chemical composition by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal conductivity by thermal property analyzer (TEMPOs) and for thermal stability, thermal gravimetric analyzer (TGA) is used. The results showed a significant enhancement in the thermal conductivity of composite PCM, the inclusion of 0.1 and 0.3 wt% of surface-modified MWCNT increased the thermal conductivity up to 51.29% and 76.5% respectively. The FT-IR confirms that the components are physically mixed in NePCM composite, no chemical reaction appeared as no displacement of characteristic peaks or a new peaks appeared. TGA results showed the prepared nano-enhanced phase change material (NePCM) is stable. Thus, surface modification of MWCNT by using SDBS for PW can be the effective method to boost the overall performance of NePCM without losing its basic characteristics. Therefore, based on results, it can be concluded that the surface modified Paraffin/MWCNT NePCM is well suited for applications like energy storage, photovoltaic thermal system, and battery thermal management. PCM showed enhanced thermo-physical properties. Therefore, it might be the candidate for energy storage and other thermal practical applications in future.
Series Motor Four Quadrants DC Chopper For DC Drive Electric Vehicle Driving Cycle Test
Authors: Hazrimy Fathul , Arof Saharul , Mawby Philip , Arof Hamzah , Noorsal Emilia
Published: December 2023

The most common need for electric car is to be able to carry a maximum load of 850-1300 kg. The expected maximum speed of the electric vehicle (EC) is about at 110-120 km/h and the acceleration is for 60Km/h in less than 10 seconds. To determine whether the DC Drive EV performance is up to a standard requirement for the end user’s such as maximum speed, cruising speed, acceleration, deceleration, stability, safety, etc., an EV’s full design must go through some sort of testing. This study examined the use of a series motor and a four-quadrant DC chopper (FQDC) for typical driving cycle tests like the New European Driving Cycle to test these special requirements of a DC drive electric automobile (NEDC). Using Matlab/Simulink software and vehicle dynamics equations, a simulation model of the DC Drive EV is created in order to examine and investigate the performance under the NEDC test applied to the FQDC in order to make sure that it complies with the NEDC requirements. From the test findings, it can be inferred that the FQDC is capable of meeting all NEDC standards.
Stratification and Radiation of Heat in Hybrid Gold-Graphene/Ethylene Glycol Nanofluid Flows Past a Leaning Cylinder
Authors: Ghani S N A , Noor N F M
Published: December 2023

Hybrid gold-graphene/ethylene-glycol (EG) nanofluid past a permeable leaning cylinder is devoted in the current investigation under the effect of thermal radiation and stratification. The governing partial differential equations are reformulated into nonlinear ordinary differential equations by implementing similarity terms. A shooting approach is elected to reformulate the equations into a boundary value problem which is determined by applying a bvp4c code in MATLAB. The effects of selected parameters regarding the recent model on dimensionless velocity and temperature disseminations, reduced skin friction coefficient and reduced Nusselt number are analyzed and presented in graphs and tables. It is perceived that by rising the value of the thermal stratification and radiation parameter, the reduced Nusselt number for the preferred mono and hybrid nanofluids will be declined. The reduced Nusselt number is reported to be the highest value when considering hybrid gold (ϕ

s1=0.02)-graphene (ϕ

s2 = 0.04)/EG nanofluid.
Performance Simulation of PVT System Using TRNSYS for Varying Mass Flow Rates
Authors: Sekhar Y Raja , Rao V Tirupati , Amal Krishna T S , Gurusree S , Lal Hitesh
Published: December 2023

Solar collector hybrids called photovoltaic thermal (PVT) collectors use solar energy to produce both electrical and thermal energy. System simulations are widely used as a first stage before testing in real-world applications to discover the best solutions and new applications for PVT collectors. Therefore, the construction of well-validated PVT collector models is a vital effort at this time. In this paper, the authors validated the experimental data with the simulation results obtained from TRNSYS software under similar conditions. The analysis was carried out with water as the working fluid, and at different mass flow rates for PVT collectors for varying operating conditions during the day. The authors compared outlet water temperature values from the PVT collector obtained through experiments and simulation. The minimum and maximum deviation of estimated outlet water temperature from the simulation is -3% to 8% respectively for different mass flow rates.
Performance Analysis of a Switched-Mode Flyback DC-DC Converter with Influence of Non-Ideal Switching Devices
Authors: Kamar Shazlin Shafiqah Shamsul , Azmi Syahrul Ashikin , Isa Zainuddin Mat
Published: December 2023

This paper approach for the performance analysis of a dc-dc flyback converter for low power application. Modelling is done with parasitic components for non-ideal flyback converter. Ac and dc input characteristic of the flyback converter are analysed and investigated by PSIM simulations and calculations. The influence of parasitic effects in converter components on input characteristic is studied in continuous conduction mode (CCM). The results of the calculation based on analytical formula and averaged models are in a good accordance with PSIM simulations and calculation. The goal of this project is to compare an ideal and non-ideal condition in order to see the effect on the efficiency and ability of the converter to control the output voltage. The converter is expected to be operated in continuous conduction mode at all time and focus application is low power application that less than 100W.
Casting light on the tribological properties of paraffin-based HDPE enriched with graphene nano-additives: an experimental investigation
Authors: Nabhan Ahmed , Fouly Ahmed , Albahkali Thamer , Shar Muhammad Ali , Abdo Hany S , Taha Mohamed
Published: December 2023

The impressive mechanical properties and robust resistance to wear recorded by nano-polymeric composites have positioned them as a viable alternative in many applications. When it comes to frictional materials, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) emerges as one of the best candidate materials that can be used. However, it tribological properties need more enhancement to suite with wide variety of applications. The objective of the current study is to identify the optimal loading ratio using a comprise of paraffin oil and nano-graphene with varying loading compositions. Different experiments were carried out to assess the modulus of elasticity, hardness, and strength. Additionally, the friction coefficient and wear resistance of the proposed nanocomposite have been estimated. Surfaces topographies were analyzed to recognize the wear mechanism. The results pointed that samples containing 5% paraffin oil and 0.5 wt% have relatively better mechanical and tribological behavior compared to further compositions; where, a 38% decrease in wear and a 34% reduction in COF compared to other composite samples.
From trash to treasure: crafting electrochemical supercapacitors with recycled waste materials
Authors: Padha Bhavya , Verma Sonali , Ahmed Aamir , Chavhan Madhav P , Mahajan Prerna , Arya Sandeep
Published: December 2023

Over the past few decades, there has been a massive increase in research focused on the global need for renewable energy sources. Numerous studies and reports in the literature have been conducted on technologies like wind and solar energy. However, partly due to expense and the difficulty of providing service during off-peak hours, these technologies have not been widely used all over the world. Over the past several decades, research on energy storage systems has increased to make such systems more competitive and advanced. This envisions formulating an energy storage system with cost-efficient power storage during off-peak hours for later distribution. A supercapacitor (SC) is an example of energy storage and delivery technology that accumulates and transfers energy rapidly, providing a considerable amount of current for a short time. SC technology research and development have proliferated during the last ten years. In particular, this review highlights the advancements made in SCs to provide solutions to problems associated with solid waste management (SWM) and energy usage. It begins with the introduction to SCs, wastes, SWM, waste hierarchy, and essential waste products that can be utilized to fabricate the electrodes of SCs. A brief discussion is made regarding recycling and concern for environmental pollution. Prominent recycling techniques and materials have been overviewed, followed by the performance of such waste products-derived SC electrodes. The summary concludes with the authors’ views and discusses the future scope and unstated challenges.
Bursting dynamics in a spiking neuron with a memristive voltage-gated channel
Authors: Wu Jiaming , Wang Kang , Schneegans Olivier , Stoliar Pablo , Rozenberg Marcelo
Published: December 2023

We introduce a voltage-gated conductance model for an artificial neuron that exhibits tonic, fast, and two types of intrinsic burst spiking. The spike generation is achieved with a single voltage-gated channel that exploits the conductance commutation properties of a two-terminal memristive device. Our circuit implementation is of unprecedented simplicity, using just four electronic components, all conventional, cheap and out-of-the-shelf. Our bursting neuron is a two-compartment model, similar to the Pinsky–Rinzel model. We obtain the full phase diagram and discuss the origin of the different regions. We find that the spike traces of the model bare striking similarity to experimental biological neuronal recordings. Our work may open a new way to investigate neural pathologies, such as epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease, from the study of the phase diagram and the transitions between spiking states of physical neuron models.
Carbon storage in the built environment: a review
Authors: Bjånesøy Stavroula , Kinnunen Antti , Einarsdóttir Hulda , Heinonen Jukka
Published: December 2023

With a rapidly decreasing carbon budget, the urgency of deep greenhouse gas reductions becomes increasingly necessary. This accentuates the need for the emerging paradigm shift, transforming the built environment from a major source of CO2 emissions to a carbon sink. Biogenic carbon sequestration and storage (CSS) has the potential to play a pivotal role as it offers multiple pathways for cities to improve their carbon sink capacity. There are various methods used to quantify the carbon storage potential of the built environment, and there is a lack of consensus on how biogenic carbon should be treated. This review aims to elucidate the ways in which scientific literature has considered carbon storage in the built environment by drawing a picture of the existing mechanism for CSS in the urban built environment with the focus on the existing mechanism of biogenic CSS materials. Limitations and challenges of using biogenic CSS materials are identified to point out future research directions. In addition, barriers hindering wider utilization of CSS in the built environment are discussed.
Estimating protection afforded by prior infection in preventing reinfection: applying the test-negative study design
Authors: Ayoub Houssein H , Tomy Milan , Chemaitelly Hiam , Altarawneh Heba N , Coyle Peter , Tang Patrick , Hasan Mohammad R , Al Kanaani Zaina , Al Kuwari Einas , Butt Adeel A , Jeremijenko Andrew , Kaleeckal Anvar Hassan , Latif Ali Nizar , Shaik Riyazuddin Mohammad , Nasrallah Gheyath K , Benslimane Fatiha M , Al Khatib Hebah A , Yassine Hadi M , Al Kuwari Mohamed G , Al Romaihi Hamad Eid , Abdul-Rahim Hanan F , Al-Thani Mohamed H , Al Khal Abdullatif , Bertollini Roberto , Abu-Raddad Laith J
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to use infection testing databases to rapidly estimate effectiveness of prior infection in preventing reinfection ($P{E}_S$) by novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants. Mathematical modeling was used to demonstrate a theoretical foundation for applicability of the test-negative, case–control study design to derive $P{E}_S$. Apart from the very early phase of an epidemic, the difference between the test-negative estimate for $P{E}_S$ and true value of $P{E}_S$ was minimal and became negligible as the epidemic progressed. The test-negative design provided robust estimation of $P{E}_S$ and its waning. Assuming that only 25% of prior infections are documented, misclassification of prior infection status underestimated $P{E}_S$, but the underestimate was considerable only when > 50% of the population was ever infected. Misclassification of latent infection, misclassification of current active infection, and scale-up of vaccination all resulted in negligible bias in estimated $P{E}_S$. The test-negative design was applied to national-level testing data in Qatar to estimate $P{E}_S$ for SARS-CoV-2. $P{E}_S$ against SARS-CoV-2 Alpha and Beta variants was estimated at 97.0% (95% CI, 93.6-98.6) and 85.5% (95% CI, 82.4-88.1), respectively. These estimates were validated using a cohort study design. The test-negative design offers a feasible, robust method to estimate protection from prior infection in preventing reinfection.
DeepWalk-aware graph attention networks with CNN for circRNA–drug sensitivity association identification
Authors: Li Guanghui , Li Youjun , Liang Cheng , Luo Jiawei
Published: December 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNA molecules that are widely found in cells. Recent studies have revealed the significant role played by circRNAs in human health and disease treatment. Several restrictions are encountered because forecasting prospective circRNAs and medication sensitivity connections through biological research is not only time-consuming and expensive but also incredibly ineffective. Consequently, the development of a novel computational method that enhances both the efficiency and accuracy of predicting the associations between circRNAs and drug sensitivities is urgently needed. Here, we present DGATCCDA, a computational method based on deep learning, for circRNA–drug sensitivity association identification. In DGATCCDA, we first construct multimodal networks from the original feature information of circRNAs and drugs. After that, we adopt DeepWalk-aware graph attention networks to sufficiently extract feature information from the multimodal networks to obtain the embedding representation of nodes. Specifically, we combine DeepWalk and graph attention network to form DeepWalk-aware graph attention networks, which can effectively capture the global and local information of graph structures. The features extracted from the multimodal networks are fused by layer attention, and eventually, the inner product approach is used to construct the association matrix of circRNAs and drugs for prediction. The ultimate experimental results obtained under 5-fold cross-validation settings show that the average area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value of DGATCCDA reaches 91.18%, which is better than those of the five current state-of-the-art calculation methods. We further guide a case study, and the excellent obtained results also show that DGATCCDA is an effective computational method for exploring latent circRNA–drug sensitivity associations.
Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency after non-pancreatic upper gastrointestinal surgery: meta-analysis
Authors: Hall Lewis A , Powell-Brett Sarah , Halle-Smith James , Ward Liz , Wiggins Tom , Markar Sheraz R , Roberts Keith J
Published: December 2023

Background

Untreated pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) results in substantial patient harm. Upper gastrointestinal surgery (bariatric metabolic surgery and oesophagogastric resection) affects the delicate physiology of pancreatic exocrine function and may result in PEI. The aim of this study was to assimilate the literature on incidence, diagnosis, and management of PEI after bariatric metabolic surgery and oesophagogastric resection.

Methods

A systematic review of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase databases identified studies investigating PEI after non-pancreatic upper gastrointestinal surgery. Meta-analyses were undertaken for incidence of PEI and benefit of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy.

Results

Among 1620 patients from 24 studies included in quantitative synthesis, 36.0% developed PEI. The incidence of PEI was 23.0 and 50.4% after bariatric metabolic surgery and oesophagogastric resection respectively. Notably, the incidence of PEI was 44% after biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch and 66.2% after total gastrectomy. The most common diagnostic test used was faecal elastase 1 (15 of 31 studies), with less than 200 µg/g being diagnostic of PEI. A total of 11 studies considered the management of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, with 78.6% of patients responding positively to pancreatic enzyme replacement when it was prescribed.

Conclusion

PEI is common after non-pancreatic upper gastrointestinal surgery and patients may benefit from enzyme replacement therapy.
Broadening the clinical spectrum: molecular mechanisms and new phenotypes of ANO3-dystonia
Authors: Ousingsawat Jiraporn , Talbi Khaoula , Gómez-Martín Hilario , Koy Anne , Fernández-Jaén Alberto , Tekgül Hasan , Serdaroğlu Esra , Schreiber Rainer , Ortigoza-Escobar Juan Dario , Kunzelmann Karl
Published: December 2023

Anoctamin 3 (ANO3) belongs to a family of transmembrane proteins that form phospholipid scramblases and ion channels. A large number of ANO3 variants were identified as the cause of craniocervical dystonia, but the underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain obscure. It was suggested that ANO3 variants may dysregulate intracellular Ca2+ signalling, as variants in other Ca2+ regulating proteins like hippocalcin were also identified as a cause of dystonia.

In this study, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the clinical, radiological and molecular characteristics of four individuals from four families who carried heterozygous variants in ANO3. The median age at follow-up was 6.6 years (ranging from 3.8 to 8.7 years). Three individuals presented with hypotonia and motor developmental delay. Two patients exhibited generalized progressive dystonia, while one patient presented with paroxysmal dystonia. Additionally, another patient exhibited early dyskinetic encephalopathy. One patient underwent bipallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) and showed a mild but noteworthy response, while another patient is currently being considered for DBS treatment. Neuroimaging analysis of brain MRI studies did not reveal any specific abnormalities. The molecular spectrum included two novel ANO3 variants (V561L and S116L) and two previously reported ANO3 variants (A599D and S651N).

As anoctamins are suggested to affect intracellular Ca2+ signals, we compared Ca2+ signalling and activation of ion channels in cells expressing wild-type ANO3 and cells expressing anoctamin variants. Novel V561L and S116L variants were compared with previously reported A599D and S651N variants and with wild-type ANO3 expressed in fibroblasts isolated from patients or when overexpressed in HEK293 cells. We identified ANO3 as a Ca2+-activated phospholipid scramblase that also conducts ions. Impaired Ca2+ signalling and compromised activation of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels were detected in cells expressing ANO3 variants. In the brain striatal cells of affected patients, impaired activation of KCa3.1 channels due to compromised Ca2+ signals may lead to depolarized membrane voltage and neuronal hyperexcitability and may also lead to reduced cellular viability, as shown in the present study.

In conclusion, our study reveals the association between ANO3 variants and paroxysmal dystonia, representing the first reported link between these variants and this specific dystonic phenotype. We demonstrate that ANO3 functions as a Ca2+-activated phospholipid scramblase and ion channel; cells expressing ANO3 variants exhibit impaired Ca2+ signalling and compromised activation of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels. These findings provide a mechanism for the observed clinical manifestations and highlight the importance of ANO3 for neuronal excitability and cellular viability.
Differential cortical gray matter changes in early- and late-onset patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Ai Yuan , Li Fei , Hou Yanbing , Li Xiuli , Li Wenbin , Qin Kun , Suo Xueling , Lei Du , Shang Huifang , Gong Qiyong
Published: December 2023

Age at onset may be an important feature associated with distinct subtypes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Little is known about the neuropathological mechanism of early-onset ALS (EO-ALS) and late-onset ALS (LO-ALS). Ninety ALS patients were divided into EO-ALS and LO-ALS group, and 128 healthy controls were matched into young controls(YCs) and old controls (OCs). A voxel-based morphometry approach was employed to investigate differences in gray matter volume (GMV). Significant age at onset-by-diagnosis interactions were found in the left parietal operculum, left precentral gyrus, bilateral postcentral gyrus, right occipital gyrus, and right orbitofrontal cortex. Post hoc analysis revealed a significant decrease in GMV in all affected regions of EO-ALS patients compared with YCs, with increased GMV in 5 of the 6 brain regions, except for the right orbitofrontal cortex, in LO-ALS patients compared with OCs. LO-ALS patients had a significantly increased GMV than EO-ALS patients after removing the aging effect. Correspondingly, GMV of the left postcentral gyrus correlated with disease severity in the 2 ALS groups. Our findings suggested that the pathological mechanisms in ALS patients with different ages at onset might differ. These findings provide unique insight into the clinical and biological heterogeneity of the 2 ALS subtypes.
Behavioral syndromes in paper wasps: Links between social and non-social personality in Polistes fuscatus
Authors: Jomaa Fatima W , Laub Emily C , Tibbetts Elizabeth A
Published: December 2023

Although much work has focused on non-social personality traits such as activity, exploration, and neophobia, there is a growing appreciation that social personality traits play an important role in group dynamics, disease transmission, and fitness and that social personality traits may be linked to non-social personality traits. These relationships are important because behavioral syndromes, defined here as correlated behavioral phenotypes, can constrain evolutionary responses. However, the strength and direction of relationships between social and non-social personality traits remain unclear. In this project, we examine social and non-social personality traits, and the relationships between them, in the paper wasp Polistes fuscatus. With a novel assay, we identify 5 personality traits, 2 non-social (exploration and activity), and 3 social (aggression, affiliation, and antennation) personality traits. We also find that social and non-social personality traits are phenotypically linked. We find a positive correlation between aggression and activity and a negative correlation between affiliation and activity. We also find a positive correlation between exploration and activity. Our work is an important step in understanding how phenotypic linkage between social and non-social behaviors may influence behavioral evolution. As a burgeoning model system for the study of genetic and neurobiological mechanisms of social behavior, Polistes fuscatus has the potential to add to this work by exploring the causes and consequences of individual behavioral variation.
Coronary artery disease in atrial fibrillation ablation: impact on arrhythmic outcomes
Authors: Cappello Ida Anna , Pannone Luigi , Della Rocca Domenico Giovanni , Sorgente Antonio , Del Monte Alvise , Mouram Sahar , Vetta Giampaolo , Kronenberger Rani , Ramak Robbert , Overeinder Ingrid , Bala Gezim , Almorad Alexandre , Ströker Erwin , Sieira Juan , La Meir Mark , Belsack Dries , Sarkozy Andrea , Brugada Pedro , Tanaka Kaoru , Chierchia Gian Battista , Gharaviri Ali , de Asmundis Carlo
Published: December 2023

Aims

Catheter ablation (CA) is an established treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). A computed tomography (CT) may be performed before ablation to evaluate the anatomy of pulmonary veins. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) detected by cardiac CT scan pre-ablation and to evaluate the impact of CAD and revascularization on outcomes after AF ablation.

Methods and results

All consecutive patients with AF diagnosis, hospitalized at Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Belgium, between 2015 and 2019, were prospectively screened for enrolment in the study. Inclusion criteria were (i) AF diagnosis, (ii) first procedure of AF ablation with cryoballoon CA, and (iii) contrast CT scan performed pre-ablation. A total of 576 consecutive patients were prospectively included and analysed in this study. At CT scan, 122 patients (21.2%) were diagnosed with CAD, of whom 41 patients (7.1%) with critical CAD. At survival analysis, critical CAD at CT scan was a predictor of atrial tachyarrhythmia (AT) recurrence during the follow-up, only in Cox univariate analysis [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.79] but was not an independent predictor in Cox multivariate analysis. At Cox multivariate analysis, independent predictors of AT recurrence were as follows: persistent AF (HR = 2.93) and left atrium volume index (HR = 1.04).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing CT scan before AF ablation, critical CAD was diagnosed in 7.1% of patients. Coronary artery disease and revascularization were not independent predictors of recurrence; thus, in this patient population, AF ablation should not be denied and can be performed together with CAD treatment.
Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA) Inhibits the TRPM7 Ion Channel Through its Kinase Domain
Authors: Suzuki Sayuri , Wakano Clay , Monteilh-Zoller Mahealani K , Cullen Aaron J , Fleig Andrea , Penner Reinhold
Published: December 2023

Cannabinoids are a major class of compounds produced by the plant Cannabis sativa. Previous work has demonstrated that the main cannabinoids cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can have some beneficial effects on pain, inflammation, epilepsy, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. While CBD and THC represent the two major plant cannabinoids, some hemp varieties with enzymatic deficiencies produce mainly cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). We recently reported that CBGA has a potent inhibitory effect on both Store-Operated Calcium Entry (SOCE) via inhibition of Calcium Release-Activated Calcium (CRAC) channels as well as currents carried by the channel-kinase TRPM7. Importantly, CBGA prevented kidney damage and suppressed mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines through inhibition of these mechanisms in an acute nephropathic mouse model. In the present study, we investigate the most common major and minor cannabinoids to determine their potential efficacy on TRPM7 channel function. We find that approximately half of the tested cannabinoids suppress TRPM7 currents to some degree, with CBGA having the strongest inhibitory effect on TRPM7. We determined that the CBGA-mediated inhibition of TRPM7 requires a functional kinase domain, is sensitized by both intracellular Mg⋅ATP and free Mg2+ and reduced by increases in intracellular Ca2+. Finally, we demonstrate that CBGA inhibits native TRPM7 channels in a B lymphocyte cell line. In conclusion, we demonstrate that CBGA is the most potent cannabinoid in suppressing TRPM7 activity and possesses therapeutic potential for diseases in which TRPM7 is known to play an important role such as cancer, stroke, and kidney disease.
Carotenoid retention during post-harvest storage of Capsicum annuum: the role of the fruit surface structure
Authors: Holden Alexandra C , Cohen Hagai , Berry Harriet M , Rickett Daniel V , Aharoni Asaph , Fraser Paul D
Published: December 2023

In this study, a chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum) panel for post-harvest carotenoid retention was studied to elucidate underlying mechanisms associated with this commercial trait of interest. Following drying and storage, some lines within the panel had an increase in carotenoids approaching 50% compared with the initial content at the fresh fruit stage. Other lines displayed a 25% loss of carotenoids. The quantitative determination of carotenoid pigments with concurrent cellular analysis indicated that in most cases, pepper fruit with thicker (up to 4-fold) lipid exocarp layers and smooth surfaces exhibit improved carotenoid retention properties. Total cutin monomer content increased in medium/high carotenoid retention fruits and subepidermal cutin deposits were responsible for the difference in exocarp thickness. Cutin biosynthesis and cuticle precursor transport genes were differentially expressed between medium/high and low carotenoid retention genotypes, and this supports the hypothesis that the fruit cuticle can contribute to carotenoid retention. Enzymatic degradation of the cuticle and cell wall suggests that in Capsicum the carotenoids (capsanthin and its esters) are embedded in the lipidic exocarp layer. This was not the case in tomato. Collectively, the data suggest that the fruit cuticle could provide an exploitable resource for the enhancement of fruit quality.
Comparison of Laboratory Diffraction Contrast Tomography and Electron Backscatter Diffraction Results: Application to Naturally Occurring Chromites
Authors: Chen Xiao , Godel Belinda , Verrall Michael
Published: December 2023

Understanding how minerals are spatially distributed within natural materials and their textures is indispensable to understanding the fundamental processes of how these materials form and how they will behave from a mining engineering perspective. In the past few years, laboratory diffraction contrast tomography (LabDCT) has emerged as a nondestructive technique for 3D mapping of crystallographic orientations in polycrystalline samples. In this study, we demonstrate the application of LabDCT on both chromite sand and a complex chromitite sample from the Merensky Reef (Bushveld Complex, South Africa). Both samples were scanned using LabDCT and Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD), and the obtained results were rigorously evaluated using a comprehensive set of qualitative and quantitative characterization techniques. The quality of LabDCT results was accessed by using the “completeness” value, while the inaccuracies were thoroughly discussed, along with proposed potential solutions. The results indicate that the grain orientations obtained from LabDCT are comparable to that of 2D EBSD but have the advantage of collecting true 3D size, shape, and textural information. This study highlights the significant contribution of LabDCT in the understanding of complex rock materials from an earth science perspective, particularly in characterizing mineral texture and crystallography in 3D.
UOCS – XI. Study of blue straggler stars in open cluster NGC 7142 using UVIT/AstroSat
Authors: Panthi Anju , Vaidya Kaushar , Vernekar Nagaraj , Subramaniam Annapurni , Jadhav Vikrant , Agarwal Manan
Published: December 2023

We present a study of blue straggler stars (BSSs) of open cluster NGC 7142 using AstroSat/UVIT data and other archival data. Using a machine-learning-based algorithm, ML-MOC, on Gaia DR3 data, we find 546 sources as cluster members. Based on the location on the Gaia colour–magnitude diagram, we identify 10 BSS candidates, also detected in UVIT/F148W filter. We study the variable nature of BSSs by constructing their light curves using the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite data. Two BSSs reported as eclipsing binaries in Gaia DR3 are confirmed to be eclipsing binaries based on our analysis and also show the presence of hot companions as per the multiwavelength spectral energy distributions (SEDs). The physical parameters of the hot companions of these two BSSs derived by fitting binary models to their light curves and those derived from the SEDs are found to be in good agreement. Additionally, five more BSSs in the cluster shows UV excess, four of which are likely to have a hot companion based on SEDs. The hot companions with the estimated temperatures ∼14 000–28 000 K, radii ∼0.01–0.05 R⊙, and luminosities ∼0.03–0.1 L⊙ are inferred to be extremely low-mass (<0.2 M⊙), low-mass (0.2–0.4 M⊙), normal-mass (0.4–0.6 M⊙), and high-mass (>0.6 M⊙) white dwarfs (WDs). For the first time in an open cluster, we find the entire range of masses in WDs found as hot companions of BSSs. These masses imply that the Case-A/Case-B mass transfer and merger are responsible for the formation of at least 60  per cent of the BSSs of this cluster.
Geometry of the LMC based on multiphase analysis of multiwavelength Cepheid light curves using OGLE-IV and Gaia DR3 data
Authors: Bhuyan Gautam , Deb Sukanta , Kanbur Shashi M , Bellinger Earl P , Deka Mami , Bhardwaj Anupam
Published: December 2023

The period–luminosity (PL) relation of Cepheids in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) plays a pivotal role in extragalactic distance measurement and the determination of the Hubble constant (H0). In this work, we probe the geometry of the LMC through a detailed study of multiphase PL relations of these Cepheids, leveraging data from the OGLE-IV and Gaia DR3 data bases. We analyse the light curves of a combined sample of ∼3300 fundamental (FU) and first overtone (FO) mode classical Cepheids. We obtain multiphase data with 50 phase points over a complete pulsation cycle from the OGLE (V, I) and Gaia (G, GBP, GRP) photometric bands. We determine the distance modulus and reddening values of individual Cepheids by fitting a simultaneous reddening law to the apparent distance modulus values. We calculate the LMC viewing angle parameters: the inclination angle (i) and position angle of line of nodes (θlon) by fitting a plane of the form z = f(x, y) to the three-dimensional distribution of Cepheids in Cartesian coordinates $(x, y, z)$. The values of LMC viewing angles from multiphase PL relations are found to be: i = 22.°87 ± 0.°43 (stat.) ± 0.°53 (syst.), θlon = 154.°76 ± 1.°16 (stat.) ± 1.°01 (syst.), respectively. The use of multiphase PL relations in multiple bands results in lower uncertainties for the LMC viewing angle parameters as compared to those derived from the mean-light PL relations. This shows that the use of multiphase PL relations with multiwavelength photometry significantly improves the precision of these measurements, allowing better constraints on the morphology and the structure of the LMC.
The ALMaQUEST Survey XI: a strong but non-linear relationship between star formation and dynamical equilibrium pressure
Authors: Ellison Sara L , Pan Hsi-An , Bluck Asa F L , Krumholz Mark R , Lin Lihwai , Hunt Leslie , Corbelli Edvige , Thorp Mallory D , Barrera-Ballesteros Jorge , Sánchez Sebastian F , Scudder Jillian M , Quai Salvatore
Published: December 2023

We present the extended ALMA MaNGA QUEnching and STar formation survey (ALMaQUEST), a combination of the original 46 ALMaQUEST galaxies plus new ALMA observations for a further 20 interacting galaxies. Three well-studied scaling relations are fit to the 19 999 star-forming spaxels in the extended sample, namely the resolved Schmidt–Kennicutt relation, the resolved star-forming main-sequence and the resolved molecular gas main sequence. We additionally investigate the relationship between the dynamical equilibrium pressure (PDE) and star formation rate surface density (ΣSFR), which we refer to as the resolved PDE (rPDE) relation. Contrary to previous studies that have focussed on normal star-forming galaxies and found an approximately linear rPDE relation, the presence of more vigourously star-forming galaxies in the extended ALMaQUEST sample reveals a marked turnover in the relation at high pressures. Although the scatter around the linear fit to the rPDE relation is similar to the other three relations, a random forest analysis, which can extract non-linear dependences, finds that PDEis unambiguously more important than either $\Sigma _{\rm H_2}$ or Σ⋆ for predicting ΣSFR. We compare the observed rPDE relation to the prediction of the pressure-regulated feedback-modulated (PRFM) model of star formation, finding that galaxies residing on the global SFMS do indeed closely follow the rPDE relation predicted by the PRFM theory. However, galaxies above and below the global SFMS show significant deviations from the model. Galaxies with high SFR are instead consistent with models that include other contributions to turbulence in addition to the local star formation feedback.
Magnetothermal evolution in the cores of adolescent neutron stars: The Grad–Shafranov equilibrium is never reached in the ‘strong-coupling’ regime
Authors: Moraga Nicolás A , Castillo Francisco , Reisenegger Andreas , Valdivia Juan A , Gusakov Mikhail E
Published: December 2023

At the high temperatures inside recently formed neutron stars ($T\gtrsim 5\times 10^{8}\, \text{K}$), the particles in their cores are in the ‘strong-coupling’ regime, in which collisional forces make them behave as a single, stably stratified, and thus non-barotropic fluid. In this regime, axially symmetric hydromagnetic quasi-equilibrium states are possible, which are only constrained to have a vanishing azimuthal Lorentz force. In these states, the particle species deviate from chemical (β) equilibrium, which tends to be restored by β decays (Urca reactions), inducing fluid motions that change the magnetic field configuration. If the stars remained hot for a sufficiently long time, this evolution would eventually lead to a chemical equilibrium state, in which the fluid is barotropic and the magnetic field, if axially symmetric, satisfies the non-linear Grad–Shafranov equation. Here, we present a numerical scheme that decouples the magnetic and thermal evolution, enabling to efficiently perform, for the first time, long-term magnetothermal simulations in this regime for different magnetic field strengths and geometries. Our results demonstrate that, even for magnetar-strength fields $\gtrsim 10^{16} \, \mathrm{G}$, the feedback from the magnetic evolution on the thermal evolution is negligible. Thus, as the core passively cools, the Urca reactions quickly become inefficient at restoring chemical equilibrium, so the magnetic field evolves very little, and the Grad–Shafranov state is not attained. Therefore, any substantial evolution of the core magnetic field must occur later, in the ‘weak-coupling’ regime ($T\lesssim 5\times 10^8 \, \mathrm{K}$), when Urca reactions are frozen and ambipolar diffusion becomes relevant.
Cloud atlas: navigating the multiphase landscape of tempestuous galactic winds
Authors: Tan Brent , Fielding Drummond B
Published: December 2023

Galaxies comprise intricate networks of interdependent processes which together govern their evolution. Central among these are the multiplicity of feedback channels, which remain incompletely understood. One outstanding problem is the understanding and modelling of the multiphase nature of galactic winds, which play a crucial role in galaxy formation and evolution. We present the results of three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamical simulations of tall–box interstellar medium (ISM) patches with clustered supernova-driven outflows. Dynamical fragmentation of the ISM during superbubble breakout seeds the resulting hot outflow with a population of cool clouds. We focus on analyzing and modelling the origin and properties of these clouds. Their presence induces large-scale turbulence, which, in turn, leads to complex cloud morphologies. Cloud sizes are well described by a power-law distribution and mass growth rates can be modelled using turbulent radiative mixing layer theory. Turbulence provides significant pressure support in the clouds, while magnetic fields only play a minor role. We conclude that many of the physical insights and analytic scalings derived from idealized small-scale simulations of turbulent radiative mixing layers and cloud–wind interactions are directly translatable and applicable to these larger scale cloud populations. This opens the door to developing effective subgrid recipes for their inclusion in global-scale galaxy models where they are unresolved.
Cosmology from weak lensing, galaxy clustering, CMB lensing, and tSZ – I. 10 × 2pt modelling methodology
Authors: Fang Xiao , Krause Elisabeth , Eifler Tim , Ferraro Simone , Benabed Karim , Pranjal R S , Ayçoberry Emma , Dubois Yohan , Miranda Vivian
Published: December 2023

The overlap of galaxy surveys and cosmic microwave background (CMB) experiments presents an ideal opportunity for joint cosmological data set analyses. In this paper we develop a halo model-based method for the first joint analysis combining these two experiments using 10 correlated two-point functions (10 × 2pt) derived from galaxy position, galaxy shear, CMB lensing convergence, and Compton-y fields. We explore this method using the Vera Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) and the Simons Observatory (SO) as examples. We find such LSS × CMB joint analyses lead to significant improvement in Figure-of-Merit of Ωm and S8 over the constraints from using LSS-only probes within Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model. We identify that the shear–y and y–y correlations are the most valuable additions when thermal Sunyaev–Zel’dolvich (tSZ) is included. We further identify the dominant sources of halo model uncertainties in the small-scale modelling, and investigate the impact of halo self-calibration due to the inclusion of small-scale tSZ information.
Mapping and Functional Dissection of the Rumpless Trait in Piao Chicken Identifies a Causal Loss of Function Mutation in the Novel Gene Rum
Authors: Guo Ying , Tian Jing , Song Chi , Han Wei , Zhu Chunhong , Li Huifang , Zhang Shuangjie , Chen Kuanwei , Li Ning , Carlborg Örjan , Hu Xiaoxiang
Published: December 2023

Rumpless chickens exhibit an abnormality in their tail development. The genetics and biology of this trait has been studied for decades to illustrate a broad variation in both the types of inheritance and the severity in the developmental defects of the tail. In this study, we created a backcross pedigree by intercrossing Piao (rumpless) with Xianju (normal) to investigate the genetic mechanisms and molecular basis of the rumpless trait in Piao chicken. Through genome-wide association and linkage analyses, the candidate region was fine-mapped to 798.5 kb (chromosome 2: 86.9 to 87.7 Mb). Whole-genome sequencing analyses identified a single variant, a 4.2 kb deletion, which was completely associated with the rumpless phenotype. Explorations of the expression data identified a novel causative gene, Rum, that produced a long, intronless transcript across the deletion. The expression of Rum is embryo-specific, and it regulates the expression of MSGN1, a key factor in regulating T-box transcription factors required for mesoderm formation and differentiation. These results provide genetic and molecular experimental evidence for a novel mechanism regulating tail development in chicken and report the likely causal mutation for the tail abnormity in the Piao chicken. The novel regulatory gene, Rum, will, due to its role in fundamental embryo development, be of interest for further explorations of a potential role in tail and skeletal development also in other vertebrates.
Histatin-5 interacts with cellular copper to promote antifungal activity against Candida albicans
Authors: Campbell Joanna X , Schulte Natalie B , Lai Barry , Harris Hugh H , Franz Katherine J
Published: December 2023

Histatin-5 (Hist-5) is an antimicrobial peptide found in human saliva that functions to defend the oral cavity from microbial infections, such as those caused by the fungal pathogen Candida albicans (C. albicans). Hist-5 can bind Cu in multiple oxidation states, Cu2+ and Cu+  in vitro, and supplemental Cu2+ has been shown to improve the fungicidal activity of the peptide against C. albicans in culture. However, the exact role of Cu on the antifungal activity of Hist-5 and whether direct peptide–Cu interactions occur intracellularly has yet to be fully determined. Here, we used a combination of fluorescence spectroscopy and confocal microscopy experiments to show reversible Cu-dependent quenching of a fluorescent Hist-5 analogue, Hist-5*, indicating a direct interaction between Hist-5 and intracellular Cu. X-ray fluorescence microscopy images revealed peptide-induced changes to cellular Cu distribution and cell-associated Cu content. These data support a model in which Hist-5 can facilitate the hyperaccumulation of Cu in C. albicans and directly interact with Cu intracellularly to increase the fungicidal activity of Hist-5.
Challenges and limitations of clinical trials in the adolescent and young adult CNS cancer population: A systematic review
Authors: Byrne Emma M , Pascoe Maeve , Cooper Diane , Armstrong Terri S , Gilbert Mark R
Published: December 2023

Background

The adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer population, aged 15–39, carries significant morbidity and mortality. Despite growing recognition of unique challenges with this age group, there has been little documentation of unmet needs in their care, trial participation, and quality of life, particularly in those with primary brain tumors.

Methods

A systematic literature review of 4 databases was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards. Studies included editorials, reviews, and practice guidelines on the challenges and limitations faced by the AYA population. Papers had to address CNS tumors.

Results

Sixty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. The challenges and limitations in clinical trials in the AYA population were synthesized into 11 categories: molecular heterogeneity, tumor biology, diagnostic delay, access to care, physician factors, patient factors, primary brain tumor (PBT) factors, accrual, limited trials, long term follow up, and trial design. The published papers’ recommendations were categorized based on the target of the recommendation: providers, coordination of care, organizations, accrual, and trial design. The AYA cancer population was found to suffer from unique challenges and barriers to care and the construction of trials.

Conclusions

The AYA CNS cancer population suffers from unique challenges and barriers to care and construction of trials that make it critical to acknowledge AYAs as a distinct patient population. In addition, AYAs with primary brain tumors are underrecognized and underreported in current literature. More studies in the AYA primary brain tumor patient population are needed to improve their care and participation in trials.