bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beans, peas and pulses for improved public and planetary health: Changing UK consumption patterns
Authors: Lane L. , Wells R. , Reynolds C.
Published: July 2024

Beans, peas and pulses offer significant nutritional, health and environmental benefits (1,2,3, 4) and the FAO states that including pulses in agrifood systems is key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals(5). Recommended intakes vary across national food-based dietary guidelines(6), but higher intakes are associated with benefits including increased satiety, reduced blood pressure, lower risk of cardiovascular disease and improved gut microbiota composition and activity(7). Worldwide, the average consumption of pulses is 21g per person per day(8) but published analysis of UK intakes is scarce. The aim of this review was to analyse consumption trends using two UK government datasets.

The Family Food module of the Living Costs and Food Survey details food and drink purchases from approximately 5000 households per year(9). The ‘UK – household purchases’ data include the average (mean) quantities purchased per person per week. Categories relating to beans, peas and pulses were identified, and data were presented as graphs of purchasing trends (1974–2021).

The National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS)(10) assesses the nutritional status of 1000 participants (1.5 years and over) annually. Personal-level dietary data (2008-2019) were evaluated for subgroups ‘baked beans’ and ‘beans and pulses including ready meal and homemade dishes’, including fresh, frozen and canned beans and pulses, and recipes containing them. Peas/ green beans were excluded because of the nature of the data aggregation. Food-level dietary data (2018-19) were assessed for the frequency of consumption of different types of peas, beans and pulses.

Our analysis of the Family Food datasets shows that, at 28g per person per day, the current average (mean) consumption of beans, peas and pulses in the UK is suboptimal. Our parallel analysis of NDNS data showed that more than 40% of participants were not eating any beans and pulses (excluding peas).

Dietary trends are shifting. The overall consumption of beans, peas and pulses has been falling steadily since the late 1980s. This is mostly due to the drop in consumption of peas and baked beans, though these are still the most frequently consumed legume categories in the UK diet. Canned pea purchases fell from 88g per person per week in 1974 to 14g per person per week in 2020-21. Baked bean purchases peaked at 133g per person per week in 1986, dropping to 78g in 2020-21.

Purchases of other canned beans and pulses (excluding baked beans) have increased noticeably in the last decade, from 17g per person per week 2015-16 to 32g in 2020-21. Purchases of dried pulses have remained consistent, averaging 11g per person per week in 2020-21.

This analysis indicates significant scope to deliver affordable, accessible health and environmental benefits through increased consumption of beans, peas and pulses in the UK.
The effect of LCn-3 PUFA supplementation on body weight, body composition, and muscle function during alternate-day fasting (ADF)
Authors: Alblaji M. , Gray S.R , Almesbehi T. , Miller H. , Gonzalo A. , Malkova D.
Published: July 2024

During weight loss the loss of body mass is associated not only with body fat reduction but also with a decrease in fat-free mass (FFM), related to the reduction in muscle mass and function(1). Supplementation with long-chain n-3 fatty acids (LCn-3 PUFA), in the absence of caloric restriction, results in a significant decrease in fat mass and an increase in FFM(2) along with improvements in muscle mass and strength(3). However, the impact of supplementation with LCn-3 PUFA during weight loss) remains unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the effects of LCn-3 PUFA supplementation, in the form of Krill oil (KO), during alternate day fasting (ADF) on body weight, fat mass loss, FFM and muscle function changes in healthy overweight and obese adults.

A total of 41 men and women (age: 39.35 ± 10.4 years, BMI: 31.05 ± 4.2 kg/m2) completed the study (NCT06001632), in which they were randomised into either a KO or Placebo (PL) groups. Both groups carried out 8-weeks of ADF combined with intake of 4 g/day of the corresponding supplements. ADF involved consuming no more than 500 calories on the 'fast day’ and consuming food ad libitum on each 'feed day’. Data on body weight and body composition (TBF-300, Tanita, Manchester, UK), handgrip strength (Handheld Hydraulic Dynamometer, Vernier Jamar; England, UK), and time to conduct 5 repetition of chair rising test were obtained pre-and post-intervention. Changes from baseline within groups were assessed using paired samples t-test. Mixed analysis of variance (Mixed-ANOVA) was used to measure 2-way interactions between time and group to identify the differences between groups. All statistical analysis were conducted using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences SPSS 28.0.

In both groups, body mass decreased significantly (KO:-4.7 ± 0.4kg, p<0.001; PL:-4.5 ± 0.4kg, p<0.001), along with a significant reduction in fat mass (KO:-2.4 ± 0.5kg p<0.001; PL:-2.3 ± 0.5kg p<0.001), and FFM (KO:-0.6 ± 0.2kg p<0.001; PL:-0.7 ± 0.2kg, p<0.001), with no differences between groups. In the PL group, there was a reduction in handgrip strength (-0.9 ± 0.7 kg, p<0.001), while there was no change in KO group (-0.2 ± 0.5 kg, p=0.1), with a significant difference between groups (p<0.001). In the KO group there was a significant reduction in time to conduct chair rising test (-1.8 ± 0.9s, p<0.05), with no change in the PL group (-0.3 ± 1.3s, p=0.2), with a significant difference between groups (p<0.001).

Supplementation with LCn-3 PUFA (4 g/day) during 8 weeks of ADF, applied to individuals living with overweigh and obesity, does not facilitate body or fat mass loss and does not diminish the reduction in FFM. However, it attenuated the reduction in muscle function in healthy overweight and obese adults.
A qualitative study of patients’ perceptions of DASH diet apps for dietary self- management of hypertension in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alnooh G. , Williams E. , Hawley M. S
Published: July 2024

Nutrition smartphone apps have become a popular and readily accessible approach to improving dietary behaviour. Hypertension is often associated with a poor diet, and its prevalence is increasing in Saudi Arabia(1). The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan has been shown to reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension(2). A previous study identified two high-quality, safe, and potentially effective smartphone apps for managing hypertension: NOOM and DASH To TEN(3). This study aimed to explore the potential of these two DASH diet self- management apps for controlling blood pressure in the Saudi Arabian context.

Fifteen patients were recruited at King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ten patients had hypertension, and five had prehypertension (mean age = 45). Patients were given the two apps and asked to try each for one week. Focus groups (n=4) were held at the end of the trial to understand the patient perceptions of the apps. Discussions were recorded, and the transcriptions were analysed using a thematic framework analysis(4).

The following four themes emerged:

1.

Managing hypertension through diet was perceived as important. Most patients reported that

adhering to the DASH diet was challenging due to a lack of motivation and willpower,

inadequate support from household members, and high prices for healthy food.

2.

The potential and current reach of dietary apps emerged as a main theme, and many

comments related to patients’ belief that dietary apps could increase their motivation and awareness about the DASH diet. Barriers to the use of apps were also identified including their difficulty of use, a preference for dietetic monitoring, and cost.

3.

Interactive app functionality was identified as a key theme, as evidenced by comments about a straightforward sign-up process, an extensive food database for dietary self-monitoring, feedback, goal setting, and reminders, considered essential for diet adherence.

4.

A preference for the NOOM app emerged. Patients perceived the NOOM app more suitable in the Saudi context. Noom was deemed to support DASH self-management because it supports weight reduction, which helps lower blood pressure. NOOM was perceived as highly interactive, offering motivational reminders, feedback, realistic dietary plans, and a comprehensive food database. Patients made several recommendations for app improvement; these included Arabic language support, automatic calculation of sodium and potassium consumption, and lower cost. Patients also expressed a desire for training in the use of the app.

This qualitative analysis suggests that the NOOM app could be suitable for use with hypertensive patients in Saudi Arabia. Further research is needed to determine the feasibility and efficacy of long- term use of the NOOM app with a Saudi Arabia population.
Dietary fibre intake in Kuwaiti older adults assessed by validated food frequency questionnaire
Authors: Alajmi A. , Garcia A. , Edwards C.A
Published: July 2024

Adequate dietary fibre (25-30g/day) is essential in a healthy diet preventing several health problems (1). Age-related changes reduce gut function and increase risk of constipation. A better understanding of fibre in those over 60y is required. This study aimed to measure fibre intake in those over 60y in Kuwait using the Kuwaiti Food Frequency Questionnaire for fibre (KWFFQ-DF) and explore local food sources of fibre and laxative use.

Recruitment was conducted Dec 2022 to April 2023 in Geriatric Health Services in Kuwait and geriatric units across the six main governorates in Kuwait. The study was approved by the University of Glasgow Research Ethics Committee (project No. 200220066) and the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Ministry of Health in Kuwait (project No 9512018)18). The validated KWFFQ-DF assessed intake of total fibre (TDF), soluble fibre (SF) and insoluble fibre and included seven food groups and 134 food items. The last two questions asked if the participant consumed supplementary fibre and if they took laxatives (type and amount). The associations between fibre intake and gender, age and governorate and between TDF and laxative use were assessed by Chi squared test (P < 0.05 considered significant).

The study recruited 210 people (61 males and 149 females; 61- 96y (median 66y). BMI ranged from 18 to 68 (median 29). Mean TDF intake was 28.7 g/d (SD 6.6; 13 to 46 g/ day). Most participants (n= 186, 89%) did not use laxatives. Several foods high in fibre were frequently consumed by participants including dates, as a snack with coffee eaten 2-6 times/day at 2.2 g TDF per portion and almonds once a day as a snack with 12 g of TDF. Whole grain toast, eaten 1-2 times daily contributed 4g TDF but with eggs or cheese at breakfast so higher in fat. Other key sources were barley bread, (8g TDF), vegetable soup, 2-4 times a week (4 g/d TDF) and Tabouleh Salad, typically eaten with grilled meat or chicken at 2g/d TDF. There was no significant association between fibre intake and gender (χ2= 1.033; P < 0.597) or governorates (χ2= 14.66; P < 0.145). However, the findings identified a significant association between fibre intake and age of participants (χ2= 10.066; P < 0.039). Moreover, there was a highly significant negative association between the TDF intake and laxative use frequency (χ2= 25.63, P<0.001).

In contrast to some populations, fibre intake for people in Kuwait over 60y is within dietary guidelines and laxative use is low. Foods high in fibre in Kuwaiti cuisine can be, however, associated with high calories due to the sugar and fat content and may be associated with high BMI. The consequences of this need to be explored.

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr Ali Alqattan and the medical team at the Geriatric Clinic in Mubarak Hospital for their valuable assistance in facilitating the interviews with participants in this research project.
EXCEPTIONAL SIMPLE REAL LIE ALGEBRAS
$\mathfrak {f}_4$
AND
$\mathfrak {e}_6$
VIA CONTACTIFICATIONS
Authors: Nurowski Paweł
Published: July 2024

In Cartan’s PhD thesis, there is a formula defining a certain rank 8 vector distribution in dimension 15, whose algebra of authomorphism is the split real form of the simple exceptional complex Lie algebra
$\mathfrak {f}_4$
. Cartan’s formula is written in the standard Cartesian coordinates in
$\mathbb {R}^{15}$
. In the present paper, we explain how to find analogous formulae for the flat models of any bracket generating distribution
$\mathcal D$
whose symbol algebra
$\mathfrak {n}({\mathcal D})$
is constant and 2-step graded,
$\mathfrak {n}({\mathcal D})=\mathfrak {n}_{-2}\oplus \mathfrak {n}_{-1}$
.

The formula is given in terms of a solution to a certain system of linear algebraic equations determined by two representations
$(\rho ,\mathfrak {n}_{-1})$
and
$(\tau ,\mathfrak {n}_{-2})$
of a Lie algebra
$\mathfrak {n}_{00}$
contained in the
$0$
th order Tanaka prolongation
$\mathfrak {n}_0$
of
$\mathfrak {n}({\mathcal D})$
.

Numerous examples are provided, with particular emphasis put on the distributions with symmetries being real forms of simple exceptional Lie algebras
$\mathfrak {f}_4$
and
$\mathfrak {e}_6$
.
Learning Closed‐Form Equations for Subgrid‐Scale Closures From High‐Fidelity Data: Promises and Challenges
Authors: Jakhar Karan , Guan Yifei , Mojgani Rambod , Chattopadhyay Ashesh , Hassanzadeh Pedram
Published: July 2024

There is growing interest in discovering interpretable, closed‐form equations for subgrid‐scale (SGS) closures/parameterizations of complex processes in Earth systems. Here, we apply a common equation‐discovery technique with expansive libraries to learn closures from filtered direct numerical simulations of 2D turbulence and Rayleigh‐Bénard convection (RBC). Across common filters (e.g., Gaussian, box), we robustly discover closures of the same form for momentum and heat fluxes. These closures depend on nonlinear combinations of gradients of filtered variables, with constants that are independent of the fluid/flow properties and only depend on filter type/size. We show that these closures are the nonlinear gradient model (NGM), which is derivable analytically using Taylor‐series. Indeed, we suggest that with common (physics‐free) equation‐discovery algorithms, for many common systems/physics, discovered closures are consistent with the leading term of the Taylor‐series (except when cutoff filters are used). Like previous studies, we find that large‐eddy simulations with NGM closures are unstable, despite significant similarities between the true and NGM‐predicted fluxes (correlations >0.95). We identify two shortcomings as reasons for these instabilities: in 2D, NGM produces zero kinetic energy transfer between resolved and subgrid scales, lacking both diffusion and backscattering. In RBC, potential energy backscattering is poorly predicted. Moreover, we show that SGS fluxes diagnosed from data, presumed the “truth” for discovery, depend on filtering procedures and are not unique. Accordingly, to learn accurate, stable closures in future work, we propose several ideas around using physics‐informed libraries, loss functions, and metrics. These findings are relevant to closure modeling of any multi‐scale system.
Pacific Decadal Oscillation Modulates the Impacts of Bering Sea Ice Loss on North American Temperature
Authors: Gao Yizhou , Zhang Ruonan , Zuo Zhiyan , You Qinglong
Published: July 2024

The cold surges have frequently attacked North America (NA) in recent decades, which has been tied to the diminished sea‐ice over the Bering Sea. However, we find that the contribution of sea‐ice loss to NA winter coldness is state‐dependent on the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) phase. Using observations and CAM6 model simulations, we find that the phase regulates the atmospheric response to Bering ice loss. During the negative PDO phase (PDO−), there is an apparent eastward‐propagating wave train, accompanied by a strengthened Alaskan ridge and NA cold high, resulting in a robust cold over Central NA. Meanwhile, enhanced upward‐propagating planetary waves weaken the stratospheric polar vortex over the Pacific‐NA regions. During the positive phase (PDO+), the NA temperature response to Bering ice loss is quite weak or even warm. We speculate that more NA cold extremes will appear as the PDO− continues and less as the PDO− shifts to PDO+.
Tacrolimus versus cyclosporine a combined with post-transplantation cyclophosphamide for AML In first complete remission: a study from the acute leukemia working party (EBMT)
Authors: Bug Gesine , Labopin Myriam , Kulagin Alexander , Blaise Didier , Raiola Anna Maria , Vydra Jan , Sica Simona , Kwon Mi , López-Corral Lucía , Bramanti Stefania , von dem Borne Peter , Itälä-Remes Maija , Martino Massimo , Koc Yener , Brissot Eolia , Giebel Sebastian , Nagler Arnon , Ciceri Fabio , Mohty Mohamad
Published: July 2024

Choice of calcineurin inhibitor may impact the outcome of patients undergoing T-cell replete hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) with post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PT-Cy) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for prophylaxis of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). We retrospectively analyzed 2427 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in first remission transplanted from a haploidentical (n = 1844) or unrelated donor (UD, n = 583) using cyclosporine A (CSA, 63%) or tacrolimus (TAC, 37%) and PT-Cy/MMF. In univariate analysis, CSA and TAC groups did not differ in 2-year leukemia-free or overall survival, cumulative incidence (CI) of relapse or non-relapse mortality. CI of severe grade III-IV acute GVHD was lower with TAC (6.6% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.02), without difference in grade II-IV acute GVHD or grade III-IV acute GVHD/severe chronic GVHD, relapse-free survival (GRFS). In multivariate analysis, TAC was associated with a lower risk of severe grade III-IV acute GVHD solely with haploidentical donors (HR 0.64 [95% CI, 0.42–0.98], p = 0.04), but not UD (HR 0.49 [95% CI, 0.2–1.21], p = 0.12). There was no significant difference for chronic GVHD. In conclusion, PT-Cy/MMF-based GVHD prophylaxis resulted in favorable OS and GRFS, irrespective of the CNI added. In haploidentical HCT, TAC seemed to prevent severe acute GVHD more effectively than CSA without impact on other outcome parameters.
Homopolymer switches mediate adaptive mutability in mismatch repair-deficient colorectal cancer
Authors: Kayhanian Hamzeh , Cross William , van der Horst Suzanne E. M. , Barmpoutis Panagiotis , Lakatos Eszter , Caravagna Giulio , Zapata Luis , Van Hoeck Arne , Middelkamp Sjors , Litchfield Kevin , Steele Christopher , Waddingham William , Patel Dominic , Milite Salvatore , Jin Chen , Baker Ann-Marie , Alexander Daniel C. , Khan Khurum , Hochhauser Daniel , Novelli Marco , Werner Benjamin , van Boxtel Ruben , Hageman Joris H. , Buissant des Amorie Julian R. , Linares Josep , Ligtenberg Marjolijn J. L. , Nagtegaal Iris D. , Laclé Miangela M. , Moons Leon M. G. , Brosens Lodewijk A. A. , Pillay Nischalan , Sottoriva Andrea , Graham Trevor A. , Rodriguez-Justo Manuel , Shiu Kai-Keen , Snippert Hugo J. G. , Jansen Marnix
Published: July 2024

Mismatch repair (MMR)-deficient cancer evolves through the stepwise erosion of coding homopolymers in target genes. Curiously, the MMR genes MutS homolog 6 (MSH6) and MutS homolog 3 (MSH3) also contain coding homopolymers, and these are frequent mutational targets in MMR-deficient cancers. The impact of incremental MMR mutations on MMR-deficient cancer evolution is unknown. Here we show that microsatellite instability modulates DNA repair by toggling hypermutable mononucleotide homopolymer runs in MSH6 and MSH3 through stochastic frameshift switching. Spontaneous mutation and reversion modulate subclonal mutation rate, mutation bias and HLA and neoantigen diversity. Patient-derived organoids corroborate these observations and show that MMR homopolymer sequences drift back into reading frame in the absence of immune selection, suggesting a fitness cost of elevated mutation rates. Combined experimental and simulation studies demonstrate that subclonal immune selection favors incremental MMR mutations. Overall, our data demonstrate that MMR-deficient colorectal cancers fuel intratumor heterogeneity by adapting subclonal mutation rate and diversity to immune selection.
Spatial distribution of metabolites in processing Ziziphi Spinosae Semen as revealed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Ma Donglai , Zhao Mengwei , Guo Haochuan , Wang Lili , Li Yage , Yuan Shinong , Yan Yuping , Zheng Yuguang , Gu Xian , Song Yongxing , Han Xiaowei , Sun Huigai
Published: July 2024

Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS) is the first choice for the treatment of insomnia. This research aimed to reveal the spatial distribution of identifying quality markers of ZSS and to illustrate the metabolite quality characteristics of this herbal medicine. Here, we performed a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) in situ to detect and image 33 metabolites in ZSS, including three saponins, six flavonoids, four alkaloids, eight fatty acids, and 12 amino acids. The MALDI images of the metabolites clearly showed the heterogeneous spatial distribution in different regions of ZSS tissues, such as the cotyledon, endosperm, and radicle. The distribution area of two saponins, six flavonoids, and three alkaloids increased significantly after the fried processing of ZSS. Based on the ion images, samples with different processing technologies were distinguished unambiguously by the pattern recognition method of orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA). Simultaneously, 23 major influencing components exerting higher ion intensities were identified as the potential quality markers of ZSS. Results obtained in the current research demonstrate that the processing of ZSS changes its content and distribution of the medicinal components. The analysis of MALDI-MSI provides a novel MS-based molecular imaging approach to investigate and monitor traditional medicinal plants.
Research on the characteristics of electro-hydraulic position servo system of RBF neural network under fuzzy rules
Authors: Li Jianying , Li Weidong , Du Xiaoyan
Published: July 2024

A radial basis function neural network PID controller under fuzzy rules (FUZZY-RBF-PID) was designed for the electro-hydraulic position servo system under the influence of uncertain factors such as load mutation, and load stiffness change. Firstly, the mathematical model of the system is established, and the frequency domain and time domain analysis of the system are carried out. Secondly, based on the analysis results, a radial basis function (RBF) neural network PID controller is designed, and fuzzy rules are innovatively used to adjust the learning rate of PID parameters in the RBF neural network learning algorithm in real time. Thirdly, the simulation results show that under the action of the FUZZY-RBF-PID controller, the unit step response of the system has high steady-state accuracy, fast response speed, and under the condition of large load stiffness, the system can recover to the steady-state value faster after being disturbed. At the same time, when the input signal is the sinusoidal signal of 10 HZ, the system under the action of the FUZZY-RBF-PID controller has no obvious phase lag phenomenon, and the tracking error is minimal. The proposed method can effectively improve the comprehensive performance of the electro-hydraulic position servo system under the influence of uncertain factors.
Polymeric nanocarrier-based adjuvants to enhance a locally produced mucosal coryza vaccine in chicken
Authors: Ibrahim Hazem M. , Mohammed Gina M. , Sayed Rafik Hamed , Elshoky Hisham A. , Ahmed Marwa M. , El Sayed Marwa Fathy , Elsaady Shaimaa Abdelall
Published: July 2024

Infectious coryza (IC) is an acute upper respiratory disease of chicken caused by Avibacterium (A.) paragallinarum. This disease results in an increased culling rate in meat chicken and a marked decrease in egg production (10% to more than 40%) in laying and breeding hens. Vaccines were first used against IC and effectively controlled the disease. Nanotechnology provides an excellent way to develop a new generation of vaccines. NPs have been widely used in vaccine design as adjuvants and antigen delivery vehicles and as antibacterial agents; thus, they can be used as inactivators for bacterial culture. In this research, the antibacterial effects of several nanoparticles (NPs), such as silicon dioxide with chitosan (SiO2-CS), oleoyl-chitosan (O.CS), silicon dioxide (SiO2), and iron oxide (Fe3O4), on A. paragallinarum were studied. Additionally, different A. paragallinarum vaccines were made using the same nanomaterials at a concentration of 400 µg/ml to help control infectious coryza disease in chicken. A concentration of 400 µg/ml of all the NPs tested was the best concentration for the inactivation of A. paragallinarum. Additionally, this study showed that the infectious coryza vaccine adjuvanted with SiO2 NPs had the highest immune response, followed by the infectious coryza vaccine adjuvanted with Fe3O4 NPs, the infectious coryza vaccine adjuvanted with SiO2-CS NPs, and the infectious coryza vaccine adjuvanted with O.CS NPs in comparison with the infectious coryza vaccine adjuvanted with liquid paraffin (a commercial vaccine).
Neuroimaging biomarkers and CSF sTREM2 levels in Alzheimer’s disease: a longitudinal study
Authors: Nabizadeh Fardin , Seyedmirzaei Homa , Karami Shaghayegh
Published: July 2024

Understanding the exact pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the involvement of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) related microglia activation is crucial for the development of clinical trials targeting microglia activation at different stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Given the contradictory findings in the literature, it is imperative to investigate the longitudinal alterations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) soluble TREM2 (sTREM2) levels as a marker for microglia activation, and its potential association with AD biomarkers, in order to address the current knowledge gap. In this study, we aimed to assess the longitudinal changes in CSF sTREM2 levels within the framework of the A/T/N classification system for AD biomarkers and to explore potential associations with AD pathological features, including the presence of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and tau aggregates. The baseline and longitudinal (any available follow-up visit) CSF sTREM2 levels and processed tau-PET and Aβ-PET data of 1001 subjects were recruited from the ADNI database. The participants were classified into four groups based on the A/T/N framework: A+ /TN+ , A+ /TN− , A− /TN+ , and A− /TN− . Linear regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between CSF sTREM2 with cognitive performance, tau and Aβ-PET adjusting for age, gender, education, and APOE ε4 status. Based on our analysis there was a significant difference in baseline and rate of change of CSF sTREM2 between ATN groups. While there was no association between baseline CSF sTREM2 and cognitive performance (ADNI-mem), we found that the rate of change of CSF sTREM2 is significantly associated with cognitive performance in the entire cohort but not the ATN groups. We found that the baseline CSF sTREM2 is significantly associated with baseline tau-PET and Aβ-PET rate of change only in the A+ /TN+ group. A significant association was found between the rate of change of CSF sTREM2 and the tau- and Aβ-PET rate of change only in the A+ /TN− group. Our study suggests that the TREM2-related microglia activation and their relations with AD markers and cognitive performance vary the in presence or absence of Aβ and tau pathology. Furthermore, our findings revealed that a faster increase in the level of CSF sTREM2 might attenuate future Aβ plaque formation and tau aggregate accumulation only in the presence of Aβ pathology.
The impact of intellectual property demonstration policies on carbon emission efficiency
Authors: Yao Lu , Li Aoyu , Wang Shuhua
Published: July 2024

Confronted with the concurrent challenges of economic advancement and environmental management, this study explores whether implementing Intellectual Property Demonstration Policies (IPDP) can be a covert force in enhancing carbon emission efficiency. Utilizing panel data from 280 prefecture-level cities in China over the period 2007–2019, we employ a quasi-natural experimental design, incorporating multiple-period difference-in-differences models, mediation effect models, and spatial Durbin difference-in-differences models to assess the impacts of IPDP on carbon emission efficiency, its mechanisms of action, and its spatial spillover effects. The regression results of the multi-period difference-in-differences model reveal a statistically significant enhancement in carbon emission efficiency due to IPDP, with an impact coefficient of 0.044. Through heterogeneity tests, it is observed that the influence of IPDP on carbon emission efficiency varies based on regional characteristics, carbon emission levels, and the extent of marketization. The mediation effect model demonstrates that IPDP enhances carbon emission efficiency by fostering green technological innovation and facilitating the transformation of industrial structures. Furthermore, the spatial Durbin difference-in-differences model illustrates that IPDP positively influences the carbon emission efficiency of neighboring regions, indicating favorable spatial spillover effects. Notably, the indirect effect coefficients in the geographical distance matrix, economic distance matrix, and economic-geographical nested matrix are calculated as 0.673, 0.250, and 0.386, respectively. These findings offer compelling theoretical and empirical support for strengthening the intellectual property framework to optimize its environmental impact.
EDTP enhances and protects the fluorescent signal of GFP in cleared and expanded tissues
Authors: Feng Ruili , Xie Jiongfang , Gao Liang
Published: July 2024

Advanced 3D high-resolution imaging techniques are essential for investigating biological challenges, such as neural circuit analysis and tumor microenvironment in intact tissues. However, the fluorescence signal emitted by endogenous fluorescent proteins in cleared or expanded biological samples gradually diminishes with repeated irradiation and prolonged imaging, compromising its ability to accurately depict the underlying scientific problem. We have developed a strategy to preserve fluorescence in cleared and expanded tissue samples during prolonged high-resolution three-dimensional imaging. We evaluated various compounds at different concentrations to determine their ability to enhance fluorescence intensity and resistance to photobleaching while maintaining the structural integrity of the tissue. Specifically, we investigated the impact of EDTP utilization on GFP, as it has been observed to significantly improve fluorescence intensity, resistance to photobleaching, and maintain fluorescence during extended room temperature storage. This breakthrough will facilitate extended hydrophilic and hydrogel-based clearing and expansion methods for achieving long-term high-resolution 3D imaging of cleared biological tissues by effectively safeguarding fluorescent proteins within the tissue.
Self-assembling short peptide amphiphiles as versatile delivery agents: a new frontier in antibacterial research
Authors: Singh Ramesh , Sharma Shruti , Kautu Aanand , Joshi Khashti Ballabh
Published: July 2024

Decade-long research in short peptide amphiphiles (sPAs) with a minimalist approach has led to the spontaneous formation of ordered nanostructures, followed by their integration into antibacterial therapy, marking a pioneering leap in biomedical innovation.
A novel and simple method yields highly dispersed Au/TS-1 catalysts for enhanced propylene hydro-oxidation
Authors: Zhang Zhihua , Xu Jialun , Xu Kesheng , Zhong Yuxia , Shi Shudong , Duan Xuezhi , Zhou Xinggui
Published: July 2024

A novel method for preparing high-active Au/TS-1 catalyst for propylene hydro-oxidation is developed by sequentially impregnating HAuCl4 and Cs2CO3 onto TS-1, which exhibits high Au uptake efficiency and high dispersion of Au nanoparticles.
Construction of a redox-active metal–organic framework with an octanuclear lithium one-dimensional building block
Authors: Li Shu-Fan , Meng Ya-Ru , Xu Min-Jie , Zhang Gen , Su Jian
Published: July 2024

We have synthesized a stable redox-active lithium-organic framework, constructed by Li8 cluster-based one-dimensional rod secondary building unit, demonstrating good stability, reversible redox activity, and can function as an electrochromic device.
Catalyst-free valorization of biomass resources to value-added products
Authors: Zhao Wenfeng , Ge Qingmei , Li Hu , Jiang Nan , Yang Song , Cong Hang
Published: July 2024

An overview on the catalyst-free conversion of biomass resources into value-added products is provided. Significantly, the opportunities and challenges in the development of catalyst-free biomass conversion are proposed preliminarily.
Reference value of the JNdi-1 isotopic material without normalization
Authors: Quemet Alexandre , Lasnier Guillaume , Mialle Sébastien , Isnard Hélène , Boyet Maud , Garçon Marion , Auclair Delphine
Published: July 2024

JNdi-1 reference values were obtained without normalization using TIMS and total evaporation method.
Magnetic polymeric ferric magnesium chloride: Fe species distribution, characterization and coagulation removal of microplastics in water
Authors: Liu Haicheng , Yang Jiahui
Published: July 2024

The mechanism diagram of microplastic removal by MPFMC.
Exploration of silver borates with diverse low-dimensional anion frameworks by introducing monovalent heteroanions
Authors: Huai Lei , Liu Wenlong , Zhang Bei-Bei , Tang Ru-Ling , Lv Yi-Lei , Wei Yue-Qi , Guo Sheng-Ping
Published: July 2024

Four new Ag–borates, Ag7B9O16(OH)2(1), Ag8B8O15Cl2(2), Ag8B8O15(OH)Br (3), and Ag11B8O16I3(4), were successfully obtained by introducing monovalent heteroanions, showing low-dimensional B–O frameworks.
Synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties of diamagnetic Co(iii) ion-based heterometallic CoIII–LnIII (Ln = Dy, Tb, Ho, Er) complexes
Authors: Barman Nandini , Halder Purbashree , Mukhopadhyay Subrata , Schwarz Björn , Colacio Enrique , Rana Rajanikanta , Rajaraman Gopalan , Goura Joydeb
Published: July 2024

A series of heterometallic dinuclear complexes [CoIIILnIII(L)(μ-Piv)2(Piv)2(OHMe)2] (LnIII = Dy, Tb, Ho and Er) are reported. Experimental magnetic studies and theoretical calculations indicate that Dy(iii) shows slow relaxation at low temperature.
Synthesis of fluorinated curcumin derivatives for detecting amyloid plaques by 19F-MRI
Authors: Micocci Sebastiano , Stefania Rachele , Garello Francesca , Fasoglio Umberto , Hawala Ivan , Tei Lorenzo , Geninatti Crich Simonetta , Digilio Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Novel curcumin derivatives with a higher number of 19F nuclei which exhibited high binding affinity to Aβ oligomers for diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease by 19F-MRI.
Micelle-mediated synthesis of quinoxaline, 1,4-benzoxazine and 1,4-benzothiazine scaffolds from styrenes
Authors: Teli Bisma , Wani Mohmad Muzafar , Jan Shafia , Bhat Haamid Rasool , Bhat Bilal A.
Published: July 2024

The formation of quinoxalines, 2-aryl-1,4-benzoxazines and 2-aryl-1,4-thiazines by reacting 1,2-diaminobenzenes and 1,2-aminophenols/thiophenols with styrenes in CPB-micellar medium is reported.
Computational design of de novo bioenergetic membrane proteins
Authors: Hardy Benjamin J. , Curnow Paul
Published: July 2024

The major energy-producing reactions of biochemistry occur at biological membranes. Computational protein design now provides the opportunity to elucidate the underlying principles of these processes and to construct bioenergetic pathways on our own terms. Here, we review recent achievements in this endeavour of ‘synthetic bioenergetics’, with a particular focus on new enabling tools that facilitate the computational design of biocompatible de novo integral membrane proteins. We use recent examples to showcase some of the key computational approaches in current use and highlight that the overall philosophy of ‘surface-swapping’ — the replacement of solvent-facing residues with amino acids bearing lipid-soluble hydrophobic sidechains — is a promising avenue in membrane protein design. We conclude by highlighting outstanding design challenges and the emerging role of AI in sequence design and structure ideation.
TDP-43 in nuclear condensates: where, how, and why
Authors: Lang Ruaridh , Hodgson Rachel E. , Shelkovnikova Tatyana A.
Published: July 2024

TDP-43 is an abundant and ubiquitously expressed nuclear protein that becomes dysfunctional in a spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases. TDP-43's ability to phase separate and form/enter biomolecular condensates of varying size and composition is critical for its functionality. Despite the high density of phase-separated assemblies in the nucleus and the nuclear abundance of TDP-43, our understanding of the condensate-TDP-43 relationship in this cellular compartment is only emerging. Recent studies have also suggested that misregulation of nuclear TDP-43 condensation is an early event in the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This review aims to draw attention to the nuclear facet of functional and aberrant TDP-43 condensation. We will summarise the current knowledge on how TDP-43 containing nuclear condensates form and function and how their homeostasis is affected in disease.
The Relationship Between Auditory and Cognitive Processing Abilities in Children With Specific Learning Disorders
Authors: Jain Saransh , Kothari Siddharth , V. S. Rohith , H. S. Harshan Kumar , Jain Chandni
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

Specific learning disorder (SLD) refers to a pattern of learning difficulties characterized by problems with reading, writing, or mathematics that are not solely due to intellectual disabilities, sensory deficits, or other neurological or medical conditions. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the processing and organizing of information. Auditory and cognitive processing is affected in most children with SLD, although to a varying degree. However, it is still unclear whether there exists any relationship between auditory and cognitive processing disorders in children with SLD.

Method:

We tested 1,259 children, of whom 77 were diagnosed as SLD and 30 age- and gender-matched typically developing (TD) children were selected. Auditory processing abilities were assessed for auditory discrimination, pattern perception, closure, temporal processing, binaural integration, and separation using standardized tests and procedures. Cognitive processing was measured using working memory, short-term memory, and attention tasks.

Results:

The test data of the TD children were taken as the norm. Based on the normative range, children with SLD were divided into those with auditory processing disorder (APD;
n
= 31) and those without APD (
n
= 46). A regression model highlighted a robust positive relationship between APD and cognitive processing, particularly pronounced in SLD with APD children. The results are discussed, supporting the information-processing theory of learning disability and highlighting a complex loop between auditory and cognitive deficits in children with SLD.

Conclusions:

The findings underscore the critical role of both auditory and cognitive abilities in children with SLD. Tailoring the intervention to break the loop is recommended, which may improve learning abilities more effectively.
Exploring the connection between AGN radiative feedback and massive black hole spin
Authors: Bollati F. , Lupi A. , Dotti M. , Haardt F.
Published: July 2024

We present a novel implementation for active galactic nucleus (AGN) feedback through ultrafast winds in the code GIZMO. Our feedback recipe accounts for the angular dependence of radiative feedback on black hole spin. We self-consistently evolve in time (i) the gas-accretion process from resolved scales to a smaller scale unresolved (subgrid) AGN disk, (ii) the evolution of the spin of the massive black hole (MBH), (iii) the injection of AGN-driven winds into the resolved scales, and (iv) the spin-induced anisotropy of the overall feedback process. We tested our implementation by following the propagation of the wind-driven outflow into an homogeneous medium, and here we present a comparison of the results against simple analytical models. We also considered an isolated galaxy setup, where the galaxy is thought to be formed from the collapse of a spinning gaseous halo, and there we studied the impact of the AGN feedback on the evolution of the MBH and of the host galaxy. We find that: (i) AGN feedback limits the gas inflow that powers the MBH, with a consequent weak impact on the host galaxy characterized by a suppression of star formation by about a factor of two in the nuclear (≲kpc) region; (ii) the impact of AGN feedback on the host galaxy and on MBH growth is primarily determined by the AGN luminosity rather than by its angular pattern set by the MBH spin (i.e., more luminous AGNs more efficiently suppress central star formation (SF), clearing wider central cavities and driving outflows with larger semiopening angles); (iii) the imprint of the angular pattern of AGN radiation emission is detected more clearly at high (i.e., Eddington) accretion rates. At such high rates, the more isotropic angular patterns, as occur for high spin values, sweep away gas in the nuclear region more easily, therefore causing a slower MBH mass and spin growths and a higher quenching of SF. We argue that the influence of spin-dependent anisotropy of AGN feedback on MBH and galaxy evolution is likely to be relevant in those scenarios characterized by high and prolonged MBH accretion episodes and by high AGN wind–galaxy coupling. Such conditions are more frequently met in galaxy mergers and/or high-redshift galaxies.
The story of SN 2021aatd: A peculiar 1987A-like supernova with an early-phase luminosity excess
Authors: Szalai T. , Könyves-Tóth R. , Nagy A. P. , Hiramatsu D. , Arcavi I. , Bostroem A. , Howell D. A. , Farah J. , McCully C. , Newsome M. , Padilla Gonzalez E. , Pellegrino C. , Terreran G. , Berger E. , Blanchard P. , Gomez S. , Székely P. , Bánhidi D. , Bíró I. B. , Csányi I. , Pál A. , Rho J. , Vinkó J.
Published: July 2024

Context. There is a growing number of peculiar events that cannot be assigned to any of the main classes. SN 1987A and a handful of similar objects, thought to be explosive outcomes of blue supergiant stars, is one of them: while their spectra closely resemble those of H-rich (IIP) SNe, their light curve (LC) evolution is very different.

Aims. Here we present the detailed photometric and spectroscopic analysis of SN 2021aatd, a peculiar Type II explosion. While its early-time evolution resembles that of the slowly evolving double-peaked SN 2020faa (although at a lower luminosity scale), after ∼40 days its LC shape becomes similar to that of SN 1987A-like explosions.

Methods. In addition to comparing LCs, color curves, and spectra of SN 2021aatd to those of SNe 2020faa, 1987A, and other objects, we compared the observed spectra with our own SYN++ models and with the outputs of published radiative transfer models. We also carried out a detailed modeling of the pseudo-bolometric LCs of SNe 2021aatd and 1987A with a self-developed semi-analytical code, assuming a two-component ejecta (core + shell), and involving the rotational energy of a newborn magnetar in addition to radioactive decay.

Results. We find that the photometric and the spectroscopic evolution of SN 2021aatd can be well described with the explosion of a ∼15 M⊙ blue supergiant star. Nevertheless, SN 2021aatd shows higher temperatures and weaker Na I D and Ba II 6142 Å lines than SN 1987A, which is instead reminiscent of IIP-like atmospheres. With the applied two-component ejecta model (accounting for decay and magnetar energy), we can successfully describe the bolometric LC of SN 2021aatd, including the first ∼40-day phase showing an excess compared to 87A-like SNe, but being strikingly similar to that of the long-lived SN 2020faa. Nevertheless, finding a unified model that also explains the LCs of more luminous events (e.g., SN 2020faa) is still a matter of debate.
Direct detectability of tidally heated exomoons by photometric orbital modulation
Authors: Kleisioti E. , Dirkx D. , Tan X. , Kenworthy M. A.
Published: July 2024

Aims. We investigate whether volcanic exomoons can be detected in thermal wavelength light curves due to their phase variability along their orbit. The method we use is based on the photometric signal variability that volcanic features or hotspots would cause in infrared (IR) wavelengths, when they are inhomogeneously distributed on the surface of a tidally heated exomoon (THEM).

Methods. We simulated satellites of various sizes around an isolated planet and modeled the system’s variability in two IR wavelengths, taking into account photon shot noise. The moon’s periodic signal as it orbits the planet introduces a peak in the frequency space of the system’s time-variable flux. We investigated the THEM and system properties that would make a moon stand out in the frequency space of its host’s variable flux.

Results. The moon’s signal can produce a prominent feature in its host’s flux periodogram at shorter IR wavelengths for hotspots with temperatures similar to the ones seen on the Jovian moon, Io, while the same moon would not be identifiable in longer IR wavelengths. By comparing observations at two different wavelengths, we are able to disentangle the signal of an exomoon with transiting and non-transiting orbital inclinations from the planet’s signal in the frequency domain for system distances up to ~10 pc for Mars-sized exomoons and even further for Earth-sized ones.

Conclusions. This method enlarges the parameter space of detectable exomoons around isolated planetary mass objects and directly imaged exoplanets, as it is sensitive to Io- to Earth-sized exomoons with hot volcanic features for a wide range of non-transiting orbital inclinations. Exomoon transits and the detection of outgassed volcanic molecules can subsequently confirm a putative detection.
Isles of regularity in a sea of chaos amid the gravitational three-body problem
Authors: Trani Alessandro Alberto , Leigh Nathan W. C. , Boekholt Tjarda C. N. , Portegies Zwart Simon
Published: July 2024

Context. The three-body problem (3BP) poses a longstanding challenge in physics and celestial mechanics. Despite the impossibility of obtaining general analytical solutions, statistical theories have been developed based on the ergodic principle. This assumption is justified by chaos, which is expected to fully mix the accessible phase space of the 3BP.

Aims. This study probes the presence of regular (i.e. non-chaotic) trajectories within the 3BP and assesses their impact on statistical escape theories.

Methods. Using three-body simulations performed with the accurate, regularized code TSUNAMI, we established criteria for identifying regular trajectories and analysed their impact on statistical outcomes.

Results. Our analysis reveals that regular trajectories occupy a significant fraction of the phase space, ranging from 28% to 84% depending on the initial setup, and their outcomes defy the predictions of statistical escape theories. The coexistence of regular and chaotic regions at all scales is characterized by a multi-fractal behaviour. Integration errors manifest as numerical chaos, artificially enhancing the mixing of the phase space and affecting the reliability of individual simulations, yet preserving the statistical correctness of an ensemble of realizations.

Conclusions. Our findings underscore the challenges in applying statistical escape theories to astrophysical problems, as they may bias results by excluding the outcome of regular trajectories. This is particularly important in the context of formation scenarios of gravitational wave mergers, where biased estimates of binary eccentricity can significantly impact estimates of coalescence efficiency and detectable eccentricity.