bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to Peer Review Quantitative Studies, Qualitative Studies, and Literature Reviews: Considerations from the ‘Other’ Side
Authors: Rodda S. N. , Bijker R. , Merkouris S. S. , Landon J. , Hawker C. O. , Dowling N. A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose of review

The main research approaches in the field of addiction include qualitative studies, quantitative studies, and literature reviews. Researchers tend to have specific expertise in one, or perhaps two of these approaches, but are frequently asked to peer review studies using approaches and methods in which they are less well versed. This review aims to provide guidance to peer reviewers by summarizing key issues to attend to when reviewing studies of each approach.

Recent findings

A diverse range of research approaches are utilised in the study of addiction including quantitative, qualitative, and literature reviews. In this paper, we outline reporting standards for each research approach, and summarize how data are collected, analyzed, reported, and interpreted, as a guide for peer-reviewers to assess the robustness of studies.

Providing a good peer review requires that careful attention is paid to the specific requirements of the methods used. General principles of clarity around an evidence-based rationale, data collection and analysis, and careful interpretation remain fundamental, regardless of the method used. Reviews should be balanced and fair and based on the research and associated reporting requirements for the method used.
Economic dimensions of violence against women: policy interventions needed
Authors: Miah MD Rafid Abrar , Sifat Ridwan Islam
Published: August 2024

Violence against women is a common phenomenon in all societies, and in countries where gender inequality persists, such as Bangladesh, this issue is even more pronounced. Violence against any entity often stems from subordination, and it is generally accepted that empowering women can help prevent violence against them. The objective of the study is to unmask how different the role of economic performance of both men and women is impacting types of violence against women. With numerical data from the World Bank and Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), we used Pearson correlation and OLS regression to extract the results from the raw data collected. The study finds that male unemployment is positively correlated with violence against women (including domestic violence, dowry-induced violence, and rape), while female unemployment shows an inverse relationship with the severity of violence. The findings emphasize the urgent need for policy interventions to address the underlying factors, effectively mitigate violence against women, inform policymakers and contribute to the development of effective strategies to promote a more equitable society.
Feature Enhanced Spatial–Temporal Trajectory Similarity Computation
Authors: Zhou Silin , Huang Chengrui , Wen Yuntao , Chen Lisi
Published: August 2024

Trajectory similarity computation is a fundamental function in many applications of urban data analysis, such as trajectory clustering, trajectory compression, and route planning. In this paper, we study trajectory similarity computation on the road network. However, existing methods have been designed primarily for road network trajectories with spatial information, while ignoring the important temporal information in the real world. To solve this problem, we propose a Feature Enhanced Spatial–Temporal trajectory similarity computation framework FEST, which is a graph neural network (GNN) and sequence model pipeline. We first use the GNN model to capture global information on the road network. In particular, we enhance the process with multi-graph to learn multiple signals from the road network on different aspects. In addition to the original road network topology signal, we also take into account the content signal to learn spatial–temporal features from trajectory traffic, as well as the adaptive similarity signal of the road network to learn hidden features. From these three signals, we construct a multi-graph and use GCN to learn road intersection embedding jointly. Next, we propose a feature-enhanced Transformer with spatial–temporal information to learn correlation within the trajectory, and we further use mean-pooling to get the final trajectory embedding. We compare FEST with six trajectory similarity computation methods on two real-world datasets. The results show that FEST consistently outperforms all baselines and can improve the accuracy of the best-performing baseline.
Enhancing methane production in anaerobic co-digestion of food wastes and sewage sludge: roles of different types of iron amendments
Authors: Karimirad Roghayeh , Luo Liwen , Wong Jonathan W. C.
Published: August 2024

Iron element is known to be an effective additive for accelerating the anaerobic digestion (AD) process for treating organic wastes. However, the effects of different kinds of iron additives on food waste (FW) and sewage sludge of co-digestion process have not been yet investigated thoroughly. This study aimed to elucidate how different kinds of iron components affect methane production during FW and sewage sludge anaerobic co-digestion (co-AD) process and to investigate the possible mechanism of Fe amendment. Experimental results revealed that Fe amendment could effectively promote the substrate degradation and methane production, and FeCl3 amended group presented the best digestion performance, boosting the methane production from 465.9 mL to 2650.4 mL. The results of the excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectra analysis further supported that Fe supplements facilitated the waste hydrolysis with a higher concentration of dissolved organic matters and thereby more substrates can be used for methane generation. In addition, the activity of coenzyme F420 and direct interspecies electron transfer in FeCl3 group were 5.82 and 5.89 times higher than those in the control group, respectively, indicating that electron transfer, particularly the interspecies one, was enhanced by Fe amendment. As compared to that in the control group, the increased cytochrome c concentration in Fe amended groups also proved it. Therefore, this study will provide a reference regarding Fe amendment in the co-AD process for FW and sewage sludge.

Graphical abstract
Anti-C*-algebras
Authors: Pluta Robert , Russo Bernard
Published: August 2024

We introduce a class of Banach algebras that we call anti-C*-algebras. We show that the normed standard embedding of a C*-ternary ring is the direct sum of a C*-algebra and an anti-C*-algebra. We prove that C*-ternary rings and anti-C*-algebras are semisimple. We give two new characterizations of C*-ternary rings which are isomorphic to a TRO (ternary ring of operators), providing answers to a query raised by Zettl (Adv Math 48(2): 117–143, 1983), and we propose some problems for further study.
State of Exception or the New Normal? An Evaluation of Pandemic Tracking Technologies and Their Implications for Citizenship
Authors: Jensen Jakob Linaa
Published: August 2024

This article forms a critical examination of how the increased digitalization of daily life, exemplified by pandemic digital technologies of tracking apps and digital Covid-19 passports, affects ethical principles of privacy, subjectivity and autonomy, fundamental in a traditional notion of citizenship. The pandemic crisis has been an example of the increasing use of automated technologies across various domains, where society has become deeply reliant on these technologies. I argue that in ethical terms, the pandemic crisis has moved the borders of what is accepted by governments and citizens and have normalised far-reaching tools of registration, calculation, and surveillance. The pandemic state of exception has necessitated and legalised a temporary suspension of normal civil rights and replaced them with spatial ordering, automated surveillance, and the application of advanced and intrusive digital monitoring tools. Based on an empirical account of tracking apps I discuss the consequences for citizenship based on two theoretical figures: Michel Foucault´s concept of “bio-politics” and the concept of “a state of exception” as theorized by German political philosopher Carl Schmidt. Where traditional concepts of citizenships have focused on individual rights, responsibilities and articipation in civic life, bio-politics emphasizes a management and regulation of populations with less focus on individual agency and more on statistical analysis and control mechanisms. Technologies and discourses of automation are inter-related; digital innovation legitimize and strengthen an adherent automation of political logics, framed as a politics of necessity, where calculative predictions and technological facts leave little room for political subjectivity and values. In the concluding section it is discussed whether the rapid automation catalyzed by the pandemic was a state of emergency, necessitated by a pandemic threat, or rather represents a more profound change, a new normal for citizenship.
Surface Uplift Due To Time‐Varying Elastic Thickness in Continental Interiors
Authors: Ruetenik Gregory A. , Jansen John D. , Sandiford Mike
Published: August 2024

If, as previously hypothesized, the effective elastic response of the lithosphere is sensitive to the imposed stress regime, then it may vary in time and produce distinctive geomorphic responses. Such effects will be at their most crucial in landscapes of low relief. Motivated by the existence of numerous small endorheic (internally‐drained) basins in central Australia, we examine the influence of changing elastic response in the presence of large embedded loads in the lithosphere underlying stable continental interiors. Focusing on the western Lake Eyre Basin and adjoining Lake Lewis basin—an area with a close correlation between drainage pattern and extreme Bouguer gravity anomalies—we devise a set of numerical simulations that incorporate the flexural response to time‐transient horizontal stresses. The simulations demonstrate that transient changes in the effective elastic thickness can drive topographic changes in low‐relief landscapes, including drainage capture and the development of endorheic basins, consistent with field observations.
Crystallographic and Mid‐Infrared Spectroscopic Properties of the CaS‐MgS Solid Solution
Authors: Reitze Maximilian P. , Renggli Christian , Morlok Andreas , Weber Iris , Rodehorst Uta , Berndt Jasper , Klemme Stephan , Hiesinger Harald
Published: August 2024

We synthesized the solid solution between the sulfides CaS (oldhamite) and MgS (niningerite). Electron microprobe and X‐ray diffraction showed homogeneous and pure samples after the synthesis. The calculated lattice parameters fit to earlier literature data. Mid‐infrared spectroscopy of the samples reveal that the produced sulfides were fragile and tend to alternate very fast. However, we were able to provide clean reflectance spectra of all samples. The spectra of un‐altered samples show no peaks or bands but a rather constant spectrum within the analyzed spectral range between 7.0 and 12.5 μm. The altered spectra contain signatures of sulfates and carbonates and probably further compounds. The gathered data help to understand the formation conditions of the studies sulfides as it shows that the solvus exists in the CaS‐MgS system between 1000°C and 1200°C. In addition, the infrared data will help to improve remote sensing in the mid‐infrared of planetary objects that might be covered with sulfide containing material like asteroids or Mercury.
Outcomes 10-years after traumatic spinal cord injury in Botswana - a long-term follow-up study
Authors: Löfvenmark Inka , Mogome Wame , Sekakela Kobamelo
Published: August 2024

Study design

Prospective follow-up study.

Objectives

To describe outcomes, survival, and attendance to routine follow-up visits 10 years post-SCI.

Setting

The national SCI-rehabilitation center in Botswana.

Methods

All persons who were admitted with traumatic SCI during a 2-year period, 2011–2013, and survived up to 2 years post-injury were included. Data were collected from the medical records from the follow-up assessment closest to 10 years post-SCI and included demographic and clinical characteristics, functional outcomes, and secondary complications. Data regarding mortalities were received from relatives. Statistical comparisons were made, when possible, between those who attend follow-up assessment and those who did not, and between those who survived up to 10 years post-SCI and those who died.

Results

The follow-up rate was 76% (19/25) of known survivors. No statistically significant factors were found to affect the follow-up rate. Secondary complications rates were for pressure ulcers and urinary tract infections 21%. Self-catheterisation and suprapubic catheter were the preferred methods to manage neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Ten persons (26%) had deceased since 2nd follow-up assessment. The causes of death were probably SCI-related in more than half of the cases.

Conclusions

This was a follow-up study at year 10 after acute TSCI in Botswana conducted at the national SCI-rehabilitation center. The study supports previous reports regarding the importance of that having specialized SCI units and the need of structured follow-ups, a responsible person in charge of scheduling, and updated patient registers. We found high follow-up rate, low rates of complications and of patients being lost to follow-up.
Thermal stress, p53 structures and learning from elephants
Authors: Karakostis Konstantinos , Padariya Monikaben , Thermou Aikaterini , Fåhraeus Robin , Kalathiya Umesh , Vollrath Fritz
Published: August 2024

As species adapt to climatic changes, temperature-dependent functions of p53 in development, metabolism and cancer will adapt as well. Structural analyses of p53 epitopes interacting in response to environmental stressors, such as heat, may uncover physiologically relevant functions of p53 in cell regulation and genomic adaptations. Here we explore the multiple p53 elephant paradigm with an experimentally validated in silico model showing that under heat stress some p53 copies escape negative regulation by the MDM2 E3 ubiquitin ligase. Multiple p53 isoforms have evolved naturally in the elephant thus presenting a unique experimental system to study the scope of p53 functions and the contribution of environmental stressors to DNA damage. We assert that fundamental insights derived from studies of a historically heat-challenged mammal will provide important insights directly relevant to human biology in the light of climate change when ‘heat’ may introduce novel challenges to our bodies and health.
Profiling IgG and IgA antibody responses during vaccination and infection in a high-risk gonorrhoea population
Authors: Stejskal Lenka , Thistlethwaite Angela , Ramirez-Bencomo Fidel , Rashmi Smruti , Harrison Odile , Feavers Ian M. , Maiden Martin C. J. , Jerse Ann , Barnes Grace , Chirro Oscar , Chemweno James , Nduati Eunice , Cehovin Ana , Tang Christoph , Sanders Eduard J. , Derrick Jeremy P.
Published: August 2024

Development of a vaccine against gonorrhoea is a global priority, driven by the rise in antibiotic resistance. Although Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) infection does not induce substantial protective immunity, highly exposed individuals may develop immunity against re-infection with the same strain. Retrospective epidemiological studies have shown that vaccines containing Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) provide a degree of cross-protection against Ng infection. We conducted a clinical trial (NCT04297436) of 4CMenB (Bexsero, GSK), a licensed Nm vaccine containing OMVs and recombinant antigens, comprising a single arm, open label study of two doses with 50 adults in coastal Kenya who have high exposure to Ng. Data from a Ng antigen microarray established that serum IgG and IgA reactivities against the gonococcal homologs of the recombinant antigens in the vaccine peaked at 10 but had declined by 24 weeks. For most reactive OMV-derived antigens, the reverse was the case. A cohort of similar individuals with laboratory-confirmed gonococcal infection were compared before, during, and after infection: their reactivities were weaker and differed from the vaccinated cohort. We conclude that the cross-protection of the 4CMenB vaccine against gonorrhoea could be explained by cross-reaction against a diverse selection of antigens derived from the OMV component.
Genetic determinants and phenotypic consequences of blood T-cell proportions in 207,000 diverse individuals
Authors: Poisner Hannah , Faucon Annika , Cox Nancy , Bick Alexander G.
Published: August 2024

T-cells play a critical role in multiple aspects of human health and disease. However, to date the genetic determinants of human T-cell abundance have not been studied at scale because assays quantifying T-cell abundance are not widely used in clinical or research settings. The complete blood count clinical assay quantifies lymphocyte abundance which includes T-cells, B-cells, and NK-cells. To address this gap, we directly estimate T-cell fractions from whole genome sequencing data in over 200,000 individuals from the multi-ethnic TOPMed and All of Us studies. We identified 27 loci associated with T-cell fraction. Interrogating electronic health records identified clinical phenotypes associated with T-cell fraction, including notable changes in T-cell proportions that were highly dynamic over the course of pregnancy. In summary, by estimating T-cell fraction, we obtained new insights into the genetic regulation of T-cells and identified disease consequences of T-cell fractions across the human phenome.
Advancements in plant based meat analogs enhancing sensory and nutritional attributes
Authors: Jang Jiwon , Lee Dong-Woo
Published: August 2024

The burgeoning demand for plant-based meat analogs (PBMAs) stems from environmental, health, and ethical concerns, yet replicating the sensory attributes of animal meat remains challenging. This comprehensive review explores recent innovations in PBMA ingredients and methodologies, emphasizing advancements in texture, flavor, and nutritional profiles. It chronicles the transition from soy-based first-generation products to more diversified second- and third-generation PBMAs, showcasing the utilization of various plant proteins and advanced processing techniques to enrich sensory experiences. The review underscores the crucial role of proteins, polysaccharides, and fats in mimicking meat’s texture and flavor and emphasizes research on new plant-based sources to improve product quality. Addressing challenges like production costs, taste, texture, and nutritional adequacy is vital for enhancing consumer acceptance and fostering a more sustainable food system.
On the salient limitations of the methods of assembly theory and their classification of molecular biosignatures
Authors: Uthamacumaran Abicumaran , Abrahão Felipe S. , Kiani Narsis A. , Zenil Hector
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate that the assembly pathway method underlying assembly theory (AT) is an encoding scheme widely used by popular statistical compression algorithms. We show that in all cases (synthetic or natural) AT performs similarly to other simple coding schemes and underperforms compared to system-related indexes based upon algorithmic probability that take into account statistical repetitions but also the likelihood of other computable patterns. Our results imply that the assembly index does not offer substantial improvements over existing methods, including traditional statistical ones, and imply that the separation between living and non-living compounds following these methods has been reported before.
A randomized study to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of a pentavalent meningococcal vaccine
Authors: Kim Yoonjin , Bae Sungyeun , Yu Kyung-Sang , Lee SeungHwan , Lee Chankyu , Kim Jinil , Her Howard , Oh Jaeseong
Published: August 2024

A randomized, active-controlled, double-blind, first-in-human, phase 1 study was conducted in healthy Korean adults to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of EuNmCV-5, a new pentavalent meningococcal vaccine targeting serogroups A, C, W, X, and Y. Sixty participants randomly received a single dose of either EuNmCV-5 or MenACWY-CRM, a quadrivalent vaccine containing serogroups A, C, W, and Y. Safety was assessed through monitoring anaphylactic reactions, adverse events for 28 days, and serious adverse events over 180 days. Immunogenicity was assessed via rabbit complement-dependent serum bactericidal antibody (rSBA) assay. EuNmCV-5 was safe, well-tolerated, and elicited a substantial antibody titer increase. The seroprotection rates exceeded 96.7%, and the seroconversion rates were over 85% for all the targeted serogroups. It showed higher seroconversion rates against serogroups A and C (p = 0.0016 and 0.0237, respectively) and elicited a substantial increase in GMT for all targeted serogroups compared to the MenACWY-CRM.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05739292.
Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine breakthrough infections induce aberrant T cell and antibody responses to non-structural proteins
Authors: Aregay Amare , Slunečko Jan , Korva Miša , Bogovic Petra , Resman Rus Katarina , Knap Nataša , Beicht Jana , Kubinski Mareike , Saletti Giulietta , Avšič-Županc Tatjana , Steffen Imke , Strle Franc , Osterhaus Albert D. M. E. , Rimmelzwaan Guus F.
Published: August 2024

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) vaccine breakthrough (VBT) infections are not uncommon in endemic areas. The clinical and immunological outcomes have been poorly investigated. We assessed the magnitude and specificity of virus-specific antibody and T cell responses after TBE in previously vaccinated subjects and compared the results with those of unvaccinated TBE patients and study subjects that received vaccination without VBT infection. Symptomatic TBEV infection of unvaccinated study subjects induced virus-specific antibody responses to the E protein and non-structural protein 1 (NS1) as well as T cell responses to structural and other non-structural (NS) proteins. After VBT infections, significantly impaired NS1-specific antibody responses were observed, while the virus-specific T cell responses to the NS proteins were relatively strong. VBT infection caused predominantly moderate to severe disease during hospitalization. The level of TBEV EDIII- and NS1-specific antibodies in unvaccinated convalescent patients inversely correlated with TBE severity and neurological symptoms early after infection.
Highest ocean heat in four centuries places Great Barrier Reef in danger
Authors: Henley Benjamin J. , McGregor Helen V. , King Andrew D. , Hoegh-Guldberg Ove , Arzey Ariella K. , Karoly David J. , Lough Janice M. , DeCarlo Thomas M. , Linsley Braddock K.
Published: August 2024

Mass coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) in Australia between 2016 and 2024 was driven by high sea surface temperatures (SST)1. The likelihood of temperature-induced bleaching is a key determinant for the future threat status of the GBR2, but the long-term context of recent temperatures in the region is unclear. Here we show that the January–March Coral Sea heat extremes in 2024, 2017 and 2020 (in order of descending mean SST anomalies) were the warmest in 400 years, exceeding the 95th-percentile uncertainty limit of our reconstructed pre-1900 maximum. The 2016, 2004 and 2022 events were the next warmest, exceeding the 90th-percentile limit. Climate model analysis confirms that human influence on the climate system is responsible for the rapid warming in recent decades. This attribution, together with the recent ocean temperature extremes, post-1900 warming trend and observed mass coral bleaching, shows that the existential threat to the GBR ecosystem from anthropogenic climate change is now realized. Without urgent intervention, the iconic GBR is at risk of experiencing temperatures conducive to near-annual coral bleaching3, with negative consequences for biodiversity and ecosystems services. A continuation on the current trajectory would further threaten the ecological function4 and outstanding universal value5 of one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders.
Early-life gut bacterial community structure predicts disease risk and athletic performance in horses bred for racing
Authors: Leng J. , Moller-Levet C. , Mansergh R. I. , O’Flaherty R. , Cooke R. , Sells P. , Pinkham C. , Pynn O. , Smith C. , Wise Z. , Ellis R. , Couto Alves A. , La Ragione R. , Proudman C.
Published: August 2024

Gut bacterial communities have a profound influence on the health of humans and animals. Early-life gut microbial community structure influences the development of immunological competence and susceptibility to disease. For the Thoroughbred racehorse, the significance of early-life microbial colonisation events on subsequent health and athletic performance is unknown. Here we present data from a three-year cohort study of horses bred for racing designed to explore interactions between early-life gut bacterial community structure, health events in later life and athletic performance on the racetrack. Our data show that gut bacterial community structure in the first months of life predicts the risk of specific diseases and athletic performance up to three years old. Foals with lower faecal bacterial diversity at one month old had a significantly increased risk of respiratory disease in later life which was also associated with higher relative abundance of faecal Pseudomonadaceae. Surprisingly, athletic performance up to three years old, measured by three different metrics, was positively associated with higher faecal bacterial diversity at one month old and with the relative abundance of specific bacterial families. We also present data on the impact of antibiotic exposure of foals during the first month of life. This resulted in significantly lower faecal bacterial diversity at 28 days old, a significantly increased risk of respiratory disease in later life and a significant reduction in average prize money earnings, a proxy for athletic performance. Our study reveals associations between early-life bacterial community profiles and health events in later life and it provides evidence of the detrimental impact of antimicrobial treatment in the first month of life on health and performance outcomes in later life. For the first time, this study demonstrates a relationship between early-life gut bacterial communities and subsequent athletic performance that has implications for athletes of all species including humans.
Numerical approximation for algorithmic tangent moduli for nonlinear viscoelastic model with CSDA method
Authors: Fan Xinggui , Xu Jinsheng , Chen Xiong
Published: August 2024

This work revisits the notion of complex step derivative approximation (CSDA) and presents its use in constitutive model of a class of nonlinear viscoelastic materials. The effectiveness of a CSDA is evaluated by putting it through a series of straightforward examples. After that, the idea of the CSDA is put to use in order to carry out a numerical evaluation of the algorithmic tangent moduli of a viscoelastic constitutive model. The performance of the constitutive models is evaluated through the use of three different numerical tests, and the results are compared to those that were achieved by the application of an analytical method. In comparison to other numerical differentiation techniques, It has been found that the CSDA scheme is the most computationally efficient and robust method of numerical differentiation, regardless of the size of the finite difference interval.
The role of protein prenylation inhibition through targeting FPPS by zoledronic acid in the prevention of renal fibrosis in rats
Authors: Mohamed Reham Hussein , Abdelrahim Dina S. , Hay Nesma Hussein Abdel , Fawzy Nesma Mohamed , M. Doaa Karem M. , Yehia Dalia Ahmed Yousef , AbdelMaksoud Omnia M. , Tamim Yomna M.
Published: August 2024

Renal fibrosis (RF) represents the most widespread pathological condition in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Recently, protein prenylation has been implicated in the fibrosis’s progression. The research examined the renoprotective effect of zoledronic acid (ZA) (50 µg/kg/week) in a rat model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced RF through targeting protein prenylation. Forty Wistar male rats were split up into the control group, vehicle-treated group, model-RF group, and RF-ZA group. Mean arterial blood pressure (MBP), BUN, serum creatinine, and urine albumin–creatinine ratio (uACR), protein levels of farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase and gene expression of farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPPS) and nuclear factor-kB (NF-κB) were measured. Immunohistochemical staining for renal interleukin-6 (IL-6), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and caspase-3, as well as histopathological alterations, were assessed. ZA considerably ceased the reduction in MBP, markedly reduced uACR, serum creatinine, BUN, and expression of FPPS, FPP, NF-κB, TGF-β, TNF-α, and MDA, and significantly increased catalase levels compared to the model-RF rats. ZA ameliorated the CCl4-induced histopathological alterations and suppressed the expression of caspase-3, α-SMA, and IL-6. In conclusion, ZA preserved renal function and prevented renal fibrosis in a rat model. These were achieved through targeting protein prenylation mainly by inhibiting FPPS.
Comparing CB1 receptor GIRK channel responses to receptor internalization using a kinetic imaging assay
Authors: Andersen Haley K. , Vardakas Duncan G. , Lamothe Julie A. , Perault Tannis E. A. , Walsh Kenneth B. , Laprairie Robert B.
Published: August 2024

The type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) mediates neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system. Endogenous, plant-derived, synthetic cannabinoids bind to CB1R, initiating the inhibitory G-protein (Gi) and the β-arrestin signaling pathways. Within the Gi signaling pathway, CB1R activates G protein-gated, inwardly-rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels. The β-arrestin pathway reduces CB1R expression on the cell surface through receptor internalization. Because of their association with analgesia and drug tolerance, GIRK channels and receptor internalization are of interest to the development of pharmaceuticals. This research used immortalized mouse pituitary gland cells transduced with a pH-sensitive, fluorescently-tagged human CB1R (AtT20-SEPCB1) to measure GIRK channel activity and CB1R internalization. Cannabinoid-induced GIRK channel activity is measured by using a fluorescent membrane-potential sensitive dye. We developed a kinetic imaging assay that visualizes and measures CB1R internalization. All cannabinoids stimulated a GIRK channel response with a rank order potency of WIN55,212-2 > (±)CP55,940 > Δ9-THC > AEA. Efficacy was expressed relative to (±)CP55,940 with a rank order efficacy of (±)CP55,940 > WIN55, 212-2 > AEA > Δ9-THC. All cannabinoids stimulated CB1R internalization with a rank order potency of (±)CP55,940 > WIN55, 212-2 > AEA > Δ9-THC. Internalization efficacy was normalized to (±)CP55,940 with a rank order efficacy of WIN55,212-2 > AEA > (±)CP55,940 > Δ9-THC. (±)CP55,940 was significantly more potent and efficacious than AEA and Δ9-THC at stimulating a GIRK channel response; no significant differences between potency and efficacy were observed with CB1R internalization. No significant differences were found when comparing a cannabinoid’s GIRK channel and CB1R internalization response. In conclusion, AtT20-SEPCB1 cells can be used to assess cannabinoid-induced CB1R internalization. While cannabinoids display differential Gi signaling when compared to each other, this did not extend to CB1R internalization.
The cap-binding complex modulates ABA-responsive transcript splicing during germination in barley (Hordeum vulgare)
Authors: Sybilska Ewa , Collin Anna , Sadat Haddadi Bahareh , Mur Luis A. J. , Beckmann Manfred , Guo Wenbin , Simpson Craig G. , Daszkowska-Golec Agata
Published: August 2024

To decipher the molecular bases governing seed germination, this study presents the pivotal role of the cap-binding complex (CBC), comprising CBP20 and CBP80, in modulating the inhibitory effects of abscisic acid (ABA) in barley. Using both single and double barley mutants in genes encoding the CBC, we revealed that the double mutant hvcbp20.ab/hvcbp80.b displays ABA insensitivity, in stark contrast to the hypersensitivity observed in single mutants during germination. Our comprehensive transcriptome and metabolome analysis not only identified significant alterations in gene expression and splicing patterns but also underscored the regulatory nexus among CBC, ABA, and brassinosteroid (BR) signaling pathways.
Seasonal predictions of summer compound humid heat extremes in the southeastern United States driven by sea surface temperatures
Authors: Jia Liwei , Delworth Thomas L. , Yang Xiaosong , Cooke William , Johnson Nathaniel C. , Zhang Liping , Joh Youngji , Lu Feiyu , McHugh Colleen
Published: August 2024

Humid heat extreme (HHE) is a type of compound extreme weather event that poses severe risks to human health. Skillful forecasts of HHE months in advance are crucial for developing strategies to enhance community resilience to extreme events1,2. This study demonstrates that the frequency of summertime HHE in the southeastern United States (SEUS) can be skillfully predicted 0–1 months in advance using the SPEAR (Seamless system for Prediction and EArth system Research) seasonal forecast system. Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the tropical North Atlantic (TNA) basin are identified as the primary driver of this prediction skill. The responses of large-scale atmospheric circulation and winds to anomalous warm SSTs in the TNA favor the transport of heat and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico to the SEUS. This research underscores the role of slowly varying sea surface conditions in modifying large-scale environments, thereby contributing to the skillful prediction of HHE in the SEUS. The results of this study have potential applications in the development of early warning systems for HHE.
Paleoclimate data provide constraints on climate models' large-scale response to past CO2 changes
Authors: Lunt Daniel J. , Otto-Bliesner Bette L. , Brierley Chris , Haywood Alan , Inglis Gordon N. , Izumi Kenji , Kageyama Masa , Kaufman Darrell , Mauritsen Thorsten , McClymont Erin L. , Salzmann Ulrich , Steinig Sebastian , Tierney Jessica E. , Zhao Anni , Zhu Jiang
Published: August 2024

The paleoclimate record provides a test-bed in which climate models can be evaluated under conditions of substantial CO2 change; however, these data are typically under-used in the process of model development and evaluation. Here, we use a set of metrics based on paleoclimate proxy observations to evaluate climate models under three past time periods. We find that the latest CMIP6/PMIP4 ensemble mean does a remarkably good job of simulating the global mean surface air temperatures of these past periods, and is improved on CMIP5/PMIP3, implying that the modern climate sensitivity of the CMIP6/PMIP4 model ensemble mean is consistent with the paleoclimate record. However, some models, in particular those with very high or very low climate sensitivity, simulate paleo temperatures that are outside the uncertainty range of the paleo proxy temperature data; in this regard, the paleo data can provide a more stringent constraint than data from the historical record. There is also consistency between models and data in terms of polar amplification, with amplification increasing with increasing global mean temperature across all three time periods. The work highlights the benefits of using the paleoclimate record in the model development and evaluation cycle, in particular for screening models with too-high or too-low climate sensitivity across a range of CO2 concentrations.
Evaluation and comparison of nine growth and development-based measures of pubertal timing
Authors: Elhakeem Ahmed , Frysz Monika , Goncalves Soares Ana , Bell Joshua A. , Cole Tim J. , Heron Jon , Howe Laura D. , Sebert Sylvain , Tilling Kate , Timpson Nicholas J. , Lawlor Deborah A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Pubertal timing is heritable, varies between individuals, and has implications for life-course health. There are many different indicators of pubertal timing, and how they relate to each other is unclear. Our aim was to quantitatively compare nine indicators of pubertal timing.

Methods

We used data from questionnaires and height, weight, and bone measurements from ages 7–17 y in a population-based cohort of 4267 females and 4251 males to compare nine growth and development-based indicators of pubertal timing. We summarise age of each indicator, their phenotypic and genetic correlations, and how they relate to established genetic risk score (GRS) for puberty timing, and phenotypic childhood body composition measures.

Results

We show that pubic hair in males (mean: 12.6 y) and breasts in females (11.5 y) are early indicators of puberty, and voice breaking (14.2 y) and menarche (12.7 y) are late indicators however, there is substantial variation between individuals in pubertal age. All indicators show evidence of positive phenotypic intercorrelations (e.g., r = 0.49: male genitalia and pubic hair ages), and positive genetic intercorrelations. An age at menarche GRS positively associates with all other pubertal age indicators (e.g., difference in female age at peak height velocity per SD higher GRS: 0.24 y, 95%CI: 0.21 to 0.26), as does an age at voice breaking GRS (e.g., difference in age at male axillary hair: 0.11 y, 0.07 to 0.15). Higher childhood fat mass and lean mass associated with earlier puberty timing.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insights into the measurements of the timing of pubertal growth and development and illustrate value of various pubertal timing indicators in life-course research.
Peptide-based supramolecular hydrogels and their biotherapeutic applications
Authors: Wu Chengfan , Liao Wenjie , Zhang Yujia , Yan Yunfeng
Published: August 2024

Peptide-based supramolecular hydrogels demonstrate significant applications in chemotherapy, photothermal and photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, gene therapy, as well as antibacterial and anti-inflammatory treatments.
Theoretical investigation on enhanced HER electrocatalytic activities of SiC monolayers through nonmetal doping and strain engineering
Authors: Li Bingwen , Shi Hongrui , Ni Zeyun , Zheng Haifeng , Chen Kehao , Yan Yuting , Qi Huimin , Yu Xue , Wang Xinfang , Fan Liming
Published: August 2024

Efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts are crucial for renewable energy storage and conversion.
Selective fluorescent labeling of cellular proteins and its biological applications
Authors: Choi Joo Hee , Kim Sooin , Kang On-Yu , Choi Seong Yun , Hyun Ji Young , Lee Hyun Soo , Shin Injae
Published: August 2024

We discuss recent advances in the fluorescent labeling of specific proteins in cells and its applications for studying protein-associated biological processes.
Ce/W-MIL-88B(Fe) photo-Fenton material achieving synchronous arsenate uptake and nitrite resourcing: unexpected role of arsenate in boosting photo-Fenton activity
Authors: Chen Xi , Gao Jiabin , He Wei , Liu Hanxiao , Wu Mengyuan , Qi Meng , Yang Lijuan , Liu Feng , Hao Runlong
Published: August 2024

Here, a novel MOF-based photo-Fenton material (Ce/W-MIL-88B(Fe)) was fabricated, which achieved synchronous arsenate (As(v)) uptake and nitrite (NO2−) resourcing.
A comparative study on optimizing electrocoagulation for organic contaminant removal in shale gas fracturing wastewater
Authors: Xu Lingjie , Zhang Hua , Wang Yilin , Wang Qingji , Wang Xiaopeng , Luo Zhen , Zhai Xiaojuan
Published: August 2024

Shale gas fracturing wastewater (FW) exhibits high total dissolved solids (TDS) content, averaging 13 g L−1, along with an average total suspended solids (TSS) content of 676 mg L−1 and an average chemical oxygen demand (COD) content of 1370 mg L−1.
Mechanochemically-derived iron atoms on defective boron nitride for stable propylene production
Authors: Beshara Gian Marco , Surin Ivan , Agrachev Mikhail , Eliasson Henrik , Otroshchenko Tatiana , Krumeich Frank , Erni Rolf , Kondratenko Evgenii V. , Pérez-Ramírez Javier
Published: August 2024

Mechanochemical activation in a ball mill effectively stabilizes Fe single atoms on a defective boron nitride host, resulting in a stable and selective catalyst for propylene production via N2O-mediated oxidative dehydrogenation of propane.
Toward a low-cost uranium-adsorbing material based on nonwoven fabrics and photografting technology
Authors: Zhong Zhiwei , Huang Yanbin , Yang Wantai
Published: August 2024

In this study, we evaluated a simple and fast photografting method to introduce amidoxime groups to the surface of low-cost non-woven fabrics for uranium extraction from seawater.
A micro-scale humanized ventilator-on-a-chip to examine the injurious effects of mechanical ventilation
Authors: Gabela-Zuniga Basia , Shukla Vasudha C. , Bobba Christopher , Higuita-Castro Natalia , Powell Heather M. , Englert Joshua A. , Ghadiali Samir N.
Published: August 2024

A humanized ventilator-on-a-chip system that simultaneously applies the injurious forces associated with mechanical ventilation and monitors barrier function in real-time.
Lab-on-PCB solid propellant microthruster with multi-mode thrust capabilities
Authors: Lee Jeongrak , Kim Seonghyeon , Jo Hanseong , Lee Anna
Published: August 2024

This study presents a novel concept of a shared-chamber solid-propellant microthruster generating multi-mode thrust in a fixed position. Utilizing the lab-on-PCB technique, it shows improved scalability, mass production potential, and performance.
Recent advancements in the structural exploration of TGR5 agonists for diabetes treatment
Authors: Bhimanwar Rachana S. , Mittal Amit , Chaudhari Snehal , Sharma Vikas
Published: August 2024

Role of TGR5 agonists in treatment of type II diabetes.
Strain-driven skyrmion–bimeron switching in topological magnetic monolayer CrSeBr
Authors: Yang Junhuang , Dou Kaiying , Li Xinru , Dai Ying , Huang Baibiao , Ma Yandong
Published: August 2024

Skyrmion–bimeron switching is one of the most important phenomena in topological magnetism.
Cellular uptake and viability switching in the properties of lipid coated carbon quantum dots for potential bioimaging and therapeutics
Authors: Jain Sweny , Sahu Nidhi , Bhatia Dhiraj , Yadav Pankaj
Published: August 2024

Carbon quantum dots derived from mango leaves exhibited red fluorescence.
CoX2Y4: a family of two-dimensional magnets with versatile magnetic order
Authors: Zhao Ziyuan , Liu Zhao , Edmonds Mark T. , Medhekar Nikhil V.
Published: August 2024

Two-dimensional CoX2Y4 materials hold intrinsically collinear and non-collinear antiferromagnetic states satisfying competing Heisenberg model.
Synthesis and characterization of CuO/Ni7S6 composites for application in supercapacitors
Authors: Xue Ke , Liu Bo , Feng Huimin , Tian Lecheng , Ding Juan , Ali Maryum , Liu Jingfeng , Xing Zhicai
Published: August 2024

Copper oxide (CuO) is considered a promising material for pseudocapacitor electrodes in supercapacitors.
Recent progress on nanosystems for nucleic acid delivery
Authors: Walia Shanka , Mehta Mohit J.
Published: August 2024

Nucleic acid (NA) based therapeutics have witnessed tremendous progress and breakthroughs in treating pathological conditions, including viral infections, neurological disorders, genetic diseases, and metabolic disorders.
Dual-processable semi-aromatic fluorinated polyimides with outstanding optical transparency and low dielectric constants prepared from in situ [2 + 2] thermal polymerization
Authors: Chen Hongzhu , Wu Qihua , Chen Lijun , Zhang Weixian , Li Xiaoli , Peng Jianbo , Wang Jiajia
Published: August 2024

A facile strategy has been developed to produce semi-aromatic polyimides through direct in situ thermo-polymerization. The obtained polyimides exhibit favorable performances and are presented as potential candidates applied in microelectronics.
Molecular guest-shuttling: transitioning from thread-based to threadless systems
Authors: Das Rajorshi
Published: August 2024

The article highlights the synthesis of a much-needed tetraruthenium self-assembled metallabox which shows a remarkable thread-free translation motion of guest molecules inside it.
Insights into tumor size-dependent nanoparticle accumulation using deformed organosilica nanoprobes
Authors: Miao Yuchen , Du Hengda , Zhang Wenqing , Yang Dongliang , Tang Kaiyuan , Fang Qiang , Zhang Junjie
Published: August 2024

Deformed organosilica nanoprobes (CDPF) exhibit enhanced accumulation within larger tumors, highlighting the pivotal role of the tumor microenvironment in the optimization of nanoparticle-based therapeutic strategies.
Visible-light induced direct C(sp3)–H functionalization: recent advances and future prospects
Authors: Tu Jia-Lin , Zhu Yining , Li Pengcheng , Huang Binbin
Published: August 2024

This review summarizes the latest methodological advances in photocatalytic C(sp3)–H functionalization, with a particular emphasis on the formation of C–P, C–B, C–S bonds, etc., and some prominent efforts in asymmetric C–H functionalization.
NADPH oxidase-dependent free radical generation and protein adduct formation in neutrophils
Authors: Manoharan Renuka Ramalingam , Zachová Kateřina , Buzáš Marek , Pospíšil Pavel , Křupka Michal , Prasad Ankush
Published: August 2024

Schematic representation of NOX and 5-LOX mediated ROS generation and lipid peroxidation events in activated neutrophils. The figure was created with https://www.BioRender.com.
Electrochemical performance of Cu6Sn5 alloy anode materials for lithium-ion batteries fabricated by controlled electrodeposition
Authors: Wen Minyue , Yu Jiafu , Wang Jiawen , Li Shuaihao , Zeng Qiuyu
Published: August 2024

Preparation schematic of the Cu6Sn5 alloy electrodes and the corresponding cycling performance of the assembled coin cells.
Facile fabrication of graphitic carbon nitride/polydopamine/polyurethane foam as a floating photocatalyst for synthetic dye remediation
Authors: Budiarso Indra J. , Fujita Shusaku , Saito Shota , Judawisastra Hermawan , Takeyasu Kotaro , Wibowo Arie
Published: August 2024

Carbon nitride-based floating photocatalyst supported on polyurethane foam using polydopamine: evaluation of fabrication processes, properties, performance, and mechanism.
Amine-functionalized polymer membrane for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to hydrocarbons
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Aeshala Leela Manohar , Palai Tapas
Published: August 2024

Amine-functionalized solid polymer electrolyte membrane was synthesized. The faradaic efficiency of products CH4 and C2H6 were 13.77% and 23.05%, respectively.
Correction: The impact of viscosity asymmetry on phase separating binary mixtures with suspended colloids
Authors: Siddiqui Javeria , Codina Joan , Pagonabarraga Ignacio , Dobnikar Jure
Published: August 2024

Correction for ‘The impact of viscosity asymmetry on phase separating binary mixtures with suspended colloids’ by Javeria Siddiqui et al., Soft Matter, 2024, 20, 5564–5571, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3SM00955F.
Recent progress on electrocatalysts in ammonia electrooxidation reaction for clean hydrogen production
Authors: Hassan N. S. , Jalil A. A. , Saravanan R. , Izzuddin N. M. , Bahari M. B. , Prasetyoko D. , Nugraha R. E.
Published: August 2024

The state-of-the-art electrocatalyst design for improving the efficiency and selectivity of NH3 electrooxidation, contributing to the advancement of sustainable H2 production technologies.
Breaking boundaries of soft photocatalysis: overcoming limitations of carbon nitride as a single-light absorber for overall water splitting
Authors: Ng Boon-Junn , Putri Lutfi Kurnianditia , Chong Wei-Kean , Chai Siang-Piao
Published: August 2024

The exciton conversion process in organic carbon nitride for photocatalytic overall water splitting.