bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Printed Circuit Boards Leaching Followed by Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticle Clusters Using Plant Extracts
Authors: Nobahar Amir , Lourenço João Paulo , Costa Maria Clara , Carlier Jorge Dias
Published: September 2023

This work investigates the potential of 70% ethanolic leaf extracts of Rubus idaeus L., Cistus ladanifer L. and Erica andevalensis in the metal separation from synthetic unimetallic solutions of different metals and a leachate obtained from the leaching of PCBs. Results from the experiments with unimetallic solutions revealed R. idaeus and E. andevalensis extracts induced separation of more than 95% of the initial Au(III), while C. ladanifer separated ~78% of this metal. Thereafter, application of three plant extracts to real Au bearing leachate obtained from PCBs leaching, revealed about 96, 95 and 90% Au recovery with R. idaeus, C. ladanifer and E. andevalensis extracts, respectively with 15–60% co-removal of Pb and less than 15% of other metals. The reduction of Au(III) ions into Au(0) nanoparticles by R. idaeus extract was confirmed by molecular UV–Visible, and FT-IR analysis showed the involvement of plant secondary metabolites in Au bio-reduction and bio-stabilization. Particles obtained from the application of R. idaeus extract to the leachate were initially analyzed with XRD and results confirmed the presence of Au(0) with contamination of PbSO4, which was completely removed by washing with 1 M HCl. Thereafter, results from STEM-EDS analysis showed the presence of Au particles conjugated with organic material and other metals. Consequently, particles were subjected to another washing step with acetone. Afterwards, STEM-EDS showed pure Au microparticle clusters (~0.8 μm) with flower-shaped or apparently cubic morphologies, and HRSTEM showed the tiny nanoparticles (~20 nm), which form the clusters.

Graphical Abstract
Two global quasi-Newton algorithms for solving matrix polynomial equations
Authors: Macías Mauricio , Pérez Rosana , Martínez Héctor Jairo
Published: September 2023

In this article, we globalize the quasi-Newton algorithm proposed in Macías et al. (Appl Math Comput 441:127678, 2023) introducing an exact line search, we propose a polynomial approximation to the merit function and we deduce a sufficient condition for its minimization interval. We use the exact merit function and its approximation to propose two global quasi-Newton algorithms for solving matrix polynomial equations. For each algorithm, we prove that the exact line search does not affect the convergence of quasi-Newton method. In addition, we present comparative numerical tests of the algorithmic proposals in which we also compare with global Newton’s method.
Modulo 2 congruences for partitions with initial repetitions
Authors: Nyirenda Darlison , Mugwangwavari Beaullah
Published: September 2023

Motivated by Andrews’ partitions with initial repetitions, we derive parity formulas for several functions for this class of partitions. In many cases, we present an infinite family of Ramanujan-type congruences modulo 2.
Criteria for Assessing the Sustainability of Logging Operations—A Systematic Review
Authors: Grünberg Julian , Ghaffariyan Mohammad Reza , Jourgholami Meghdad , Labelle Eric R. , Kaakkurivaara Nopparat , Robert Renato Cesar Gonçalves , Kühmaier Martin
Published: September 2023

Purpose of Review

The comprehensive assessment of timber and fuelwood harvesting operations through the consideration of the three pillars of sustainability: Economic, social, and environmental has not received much attention. The use of criteria can significantly improve impact assessment. Therefore, the objective of this review paper is to compile and analyze the most commonly used criteria and indicators for each dimension of sustainability in logging operations over the last 6 years. This review provides an overview of these criteria for different harvesting machines, geographical areas, slope classes, time periods, types of research, and silvicultural treatments.

Recent Findings

The environmental pillar was the most studied (46%), followed by the economic pillar (38%). Productivity was the most investigated criterion (15%). On the one hand, productivity is linked to the environmental and social pillars, as it is related to the level of greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and the employment rate. However, productivity is mainly used as a criterion of financial interest, as it is most often studied in combination with costs. In addition to productivity, the other most frequently examined criteria were costs (10%), soil nutrients (9.5%), and soil compaction (9%). The social dimension was the least studied pillar (16%). This may be due to a lack of knowledge of social sustainability issues in this area.

Sustainability is achieved when all three dimensions are balanced. The results of this review show an imbalance, with economic and environmental aspects being weighted more heavily than social aspects. Balancing all three dimensions typically requires an assessment of trade-offs. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the criteria that have been studied to date and can be used as a checklist and guideline for future sustainability assessments of harvesting operations.
Hydrogen, helium and thermo-acoustic refrigerators
Authors: Prashantha B. G. , Narasimham G. S. V. L. , Seetharamu S. , Hemadri Vinayak B.
Published: September 2023

In this work the design and analysis of 1 kW thermo-acoustic refrigerators with hydrogen and helium for the temperature difference of 38 K is discussed. Helium is the best for thermoacoustic refrigerators compared to the other competent gases. But hydrogen is chosen since it is less expensive and better thermophysical properties compared to helium. The best parallel plates geometry with 15% blockage is chosen for the stack and heat exchangers. The effect of resonance frequency of hydrogen and helium varying from 400–600 Hz on the theoretical performance is discussed. The coefficient of performance and the power density of 1.65 and 40.3 kW/m3 for hydrogen, and 1.58 and 19.2 kW/m3 for helium is reported for the optimized designs, respectively. The theoretical results are compared with the DeltaEC software results, shows the cooling power and coefficient of performance of 590 W and 1.11 for hydrogen, and 687 W and 1.25 for helium, respectively.
Self-Supervised Learning for Industrial Image Anomaly Detection by Simulating Anomalous Samples
Authors: Pei Mingjing , Liu Ningzhong , Zhao Bing , Sun Han
Published: September 2023

Industrial image anomaly detection (AD) is a critical issue that has been investigated in different research areas. Many works have attempted to detect anomalies by simulating anomalous samples. However, how to simulate abnormal samples remains a significant challenge. In this study, a method for simulating anomalous samples is designed. First, for the object category, patch extraction and patch paste are designed to ensure that the extracted image patches come from the objects and are pasted to the objects in the image. Second, based on the statistical analysis of various anomalies’ presence, a combination of data augmentation is proposed to cover various anomalies as much as possible. The method is evaluated on MVTec AD and BTAD datasets; the experimental results demonstrate that our method achieves an overall detection AUC of 97.6% in MVTec AD datasets, outperforming the baseline by 1.5%, and the improvement over VT-ADL method is 4.3% on the BTAD datasets, demonstrating our method’s effectiveness and generalization.
Early Death Among COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-sectional Analysis of the First 10,000 COVID-19 Deaths from the Indian State of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Pilakkadavath Zarin , Weinberg Janice M. , Kuriakose Serin , Ebrahim Shahul H. , Bhat Lekha D. , Vijayan Bindhya , Khan Salman , Jose Soji D. , Rajeev Premini , Azariah Jinbert L. , Koya Shaffi Fazaludeen
Published: September 2023

Background

Tamil Nadu state reported the second highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India. In this study, we aimed to describe and determine the risk factors for early death among the first 10,000 COVID-19 deaths in the state.

Methods

We conducted a cross sectional analysis of state government administrative data to describe deaths, examine the differences between early deaths and non-early deaths, and calculate the risks of early death for several independent variables. All p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

In total, 4147 early deaths (41.5%) were recorded; the median age of patients who suffered from early death was significantly lower [64 years; interquartile range (IQR): 55–72] when compared with patients who did not suffer from early death (65 years; IQR: 56–73). After adjusting for comorbidities, age, and the time elapsed from the onset of symptoms to hospitalization; we found that the risk of early death was significantly lower for males [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.82; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.72, 0.93; p = 0.002], among rich individuals (aOR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.63, 0.92; p = 0.004), in the richest districts (aOR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.59, 0.84; p < 0.001) and for those who received treatment in private facilities (aOR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.40, 0.51; p < 0.001.

Conclusions

The risk of early deaths among the first 10,000 reported COVID deaths in the Tamil Nadu state of India was higher in patients treated in government hospitals especially in the poorest districts probably indicating a lack of infrastructure in government facilities or the overburdening of government facilities at least in the early phase of the pandemic.
Bioremediation of RDX and HMX contaminated soil employing a biochar-based bioformulation
Authors: Sharma Kirty , Sharma Praveen , Sangwan Pritam
Published: September 2023

Compounds like Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and Octahydro-1, 3, 5, 7-tetranitro-1, 3, 5, 7-tetrazocine (HMX) are categorised as a secondary explosive. These secondary explosives are widely employed for defence and civil purposes worldwide. The release of explosive compounds in the environment during their production, storage and usage results in severe soil and water contamination. Pollution caused by explosives is a major concern as it is recalcitrant in nature and has toxic effects on human beings, animals and plants. There is a need to find an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to deal with explosive contaminated soil. In the present study, bioformulation was prepared with explosive degrading bacteria to treat explosive contaminated soil. Bioformulation consisted of coconut husk-derived biochar as a carrier material and Arthrobacter subterraneus as an active ingredient. The survivability of bacteria and performance of bioformulation with different concentrations of explosive compounds were analysed. Results showed that Arthrobacter subterraneus could immobilise with biochar and can survive up to 6 months. The prepared bioformulation was able to degrade up to 85.98% RDX and 80.4% HMX in contaminated soil in a time duration of 30 days. A significant increase in nitrite concentration, a major byproduct of RDX and HMX biodegradation, was found in soil treated with bioformulation. Thus, bioformulation can be applied to remediate explosive-contaminated sites as an eco-friendly technique.

Graphical Abstract
A combinatorial model for the transition matrix between the Specht and -web bases
Authors: Hwang Byung-Hak , Jang Jihyeug , Oh Jaeseong
Published: September 2023

We introduce a new class of permutations, called web permutations. Using these permutations, we provide a combinatorial interpretation for entries of the transition matrix between the Specht and

$\operatorname {SL}_2$

-web bases of the irreducible

$ \mathfrak {S}_{2n} $

-representation indexed by

$ (n,n) $

, which answers Rhoades’s question. Furthermore, we study enumerative properties of these permutations.
Contribution of active surveillance cultures to the control of hospital-acquired carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in an endemic hospital setting
Authors: Ben-David Debby , Cohen Yael , Levi Gabrielle , Keren-Paz Alona , Tasher Diana , Zandman-Goddard Gisele , Schwartz Orna , Maor Yasmin
Published: September 2023

Background:

Despite the increasing rates of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) carriage among hospitalized patients in endemic settings, the role of active surveillance cultures and cohorting is still debated. We sought to determine the long-term effect of a multifaceted infection-control intervention on the incidence of CRAB in an endemic setting.

Methods:

A prospective, quasi-experimental study was performed at a 670-bed, acute-care hospital. The study consisted of 4 phases. In phase I, basic infection control measures were used. In phase II, CRAB carriers were cohorted in a single ward with dedicated nursing and enhanced environmental cleaning. In phase III large-scale screening in high-risk units was implemented. Phase IV comprised a 15-month follow-up period.

Results:

During the baseline period, the mean incidence rate (IDR) of CRAB was 44 per 100,000 patient days (95% CI, 37.7–54.1). No significant decrease was observed during phase II (IDR, 40.8 per 100,000 patient days; 95% CI, 30.0–56.7; P = .97). During phase III, despite high compliance with control measures, ongoing transmission in several wards was observed and the mean IDR was 53.9 per 100,000 patient days (95% CI, 40.5–72.2; P = .55). In phase IV, following the implementation of large-scale screening, a significant decrease in the mean IDR was observed (25.8 per 100,000 patient days; 95% CI, 19.9–33.5; P = .03). An overall reduction of CRAB rate was observed between phase I and phase IV (rate ratio, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4–0.9; P < .001).

Conclusions:

The comprehensive intervention that included intensiﬁed control measures with routine active screening cultures was effective in reducing the incidence of CRAB in an endemic hospital setting.
The PopuList: A Database of Populist, Far-Left, and Far-Right Parties Using Expert-Informed Qualitative Comparative Classification (EiQCC)
Authors: Rooduijn Matthijs , Pirro Andrea L. P. , Halikiopoulou Daphne , Froio Caterina , Van Kessel Stijn , De Lange Sarah L. , Mudde Cas , Taggart Paul
Published: September 2023

With a proliferation of scholarly work focusing on populist, far-left, and far-right parties, questions have arisen about the correct ways to ideologically classify such parties. To ensure transparency and uniformity in research, the discipline could benefit from a systematic procedure. In this letter, we discuss how we have employed the method of ‘Expert-informed Qualitative Comparative Classification’ (EiQCC) to construct the newest version of The PopuList (3.0) – a database of populist, far-left, and far-right parties in Europe since 1989. This method takes into account the in-depth knowledge of national party experts while allowing for systematic comparative analysis across cases and over time. We also examine how scholars have made use of the previous versions of the dataset, explain how the new version of The PopuList differs from previous ones, and compare it to other data. We conclude with a discussion of the strengths and limitations of The PopuList dataset.
HOLLYWOOD: The political economy and global citation of an emblematic language object
Authors: Smith Sean P. , Järlehed Johan , Jaworski Adam
Published: September 2023

The HOLLYWOOD sign is arguably the world's most famous language object. Emblematic of prestige and cultural capital, the sign can be found not just in Los Angeles, but in citations all over the world. Beginning with the history of its valorization, HOLLYWOOD is shown to emanate symbolic value through a set of enregistered semiotic features. Drawing upon a set of globally sourced citations of HOLLYWOOD, the circulation and stratified bundling of size, emplacement, alignment, typeface, and color indicates how the citation of language objects is mediated by political economy. A process of diffuse citation is further observed, in which the quotation of language features is not overt, but the source of emanation is still tangible, revealing HOLLYWOOD as the source of a global linguistic-semiotic register. As this register circulates in citations overt and diffuse, language objects are revealed as key sites for the reproduction of commodity values. (The Hollywood sign, language object, citation, enregisterment, global emblems, recontexualization)*
Social Connectedness Between Family Caregivers and Older Adults Living in Long-Term Care Homes in the Context of COVID-19
Authors: Garnett Anna , Pollock Hannah , Floriancic Natalie , Prentice Kristin , Donelle Lorie , Hand Carri , Oudshoorn Abe , Babenko-Mould Yolanda , Forchuk Cheryl
Published: September 2023

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and resulting restrictions on physical access to long-term care homes culminated in health declines for older adults living there and their families. Knowledge gaps exist regarding maintaining social connectedness when physically separated. The study aimed to explore family members’ perceptions of the impact that restrictions on physical access to long-term care homes had on the experience of social connectedness between family members and older adults living in long-term care. The method used was a qualitative description, using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Themes arising from inductive qualitative content analysis of 21 interviews with family members included: (a) lack of connection threatening mental, emotional health, and physical health; (b) navigating trust in the unknown; (c) feelings of stress and anxiety for family members; and (d) technology – an asset, but not for everyone. Study findings suggest more emphasis should be placed on supporting social connections between older adults and their families in the context of long-term care beyond COVID-19.
A Republic Goes to War: Federalists, Republicans, and Foreign Influence
Authors: HALPERIN TERRI DIANE
Published: September 2023

In the 1790s, the United States faced a series of crises—both domestic and foreign—which many believed threatened the nation’s very existence. These culminated in the Quasi-War with France beginning in 1796. The Federalist majority identified the greatest threats to the Republic as foreigners and their willing or unwitting American allies. Thus, they enacted the Alien and Sedition Acts in 1798 and other laws to allay these threats. Throughout the ensuing debates, Federalists emphasized the dangers of foreign nations who sought to separate the American people from their government. Republicans challenged Federalists’ fears as overblown and defined the real threat as the Federalists themselves who justified the expansion of the general government’s power and the infringement of individual rights in the name of national security. Americans engaged in their first debate about the meaning and limits of liberty and security.
Macedonian Historiography: The Question of Identity and Politics
Authors: Todorov Petar
Published: September 2023

Historians are playing an important role in Macedonian society. Their understanding of history and their focus of research interest revolves around the national identity of Macedonians and differentiating them from Others. In recent decades, the political debates in the Republic of (North) Macedonia and its relations with Bulgaria and Greece have had important impact on historiographic production and the new (revisionist) interpretations of the past. History has become an essential element in contemporary politics that is key for framing the national identity of the Macedonians. In this new political context historians are even more engaged in political campaigns and debates, thus making them and their historiographical work one of the sources for symbolic division in the country.
Evaluation of an experiment to increase availability of healthier snack foods in vending machines situated within English sports facilities
Authors: Evans Charlotte EL , Worth Stuart , White Rachel , Strachan Emma K
Published: September 2023

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of increased availability of healthier options on purchasing of different types of vending snack products sold in English leisure (sports) centres.

Design:

An evaluation of an intervention using pre-post methods and interrupted time series analysis. Products within the vending machines were altered over three phases to increase the availability of healthier options, using agreed nutrition criteria – Government Buying Standards for Food and Catering Services (GBSF) for England – as a guide, as well as product availability. The primary outcome was the change in mean weekly purchased energy between the first and third phase. Secondary outcomes included changes by phase and by week in weekly number of purchases, fats, sugars and salt for all products combined and by individual product categories.

Setting:

Fifteen sports centres in the city of Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.

Participants:

Snack products sold in eighteen vending machines.

Results:

Energy purchased reduced from baseline to phase 2, for all product categories combined, by 47·25 MJ (95 % CI (−61·22, −33·27)) per machine and by 279 kJ, (95 % CI (−325, −266)) per product unit. There were reductions in most nutrients purchased in all individual product categories except chocolate confectionery. Nutrients per product unit decreased for all product categories except saturated fat in chocolate confectionery. Minimal underlying trends in the baseline phase were identified, indicating changes in outcomes were likely to be due to the intervention.

Conclusions:

Introducing standards to increase availability of healthier snack products in vending machines is feasible without substantially affecting sales.
Does narrow row spacing suppress weeds and increase yields in corn and soybean? A meta-analysis
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Thapa Resham , Singh Navdeep , Mirsky Steven B. , Acharya Bharat S. , Jhala Amit J.
Published: September 2023

Narrow row spacing (<76 cm) could improve crop competitiveness, suppress weeds and might provide yield advantage. Many studies have been conducted to evaluate the impact of narrow row spacing; however, no quantitative synthesis of these studies exists. The objectives of this meta-analysis were to (1) quantify the overall effect of narrow row spacing (<76 cm) on weed density, biomass, control, weed seed production, and yield in corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] compared with 76-cm row spacing, and (2) assess the influence of agronomic management decisions (tillage type, weed management, herbicide application frequency and time) on effect of narrow row spacing on weed suppression and corn and soybean yield. We compiled 1,904 pair-wise observations from 35 studies conducted in 12 states in the United States during 1961 to 2018. Averaged across individual observations, narrow row spacing suppressed weed density by 34%, weed biomass by 55%, and weed seed production by 45%, while it improved weed control by 32% and crop yield by 11% compared with 76-cm row spacing. Narrow row spacing in soybean suppressed weed density by 42%, weed biomass by 71%, and increased crop yield by 12% compared with 76-cm row spacing. Although narrow row spacing had a nonsignificant effect on response variables in corn, the number of studies (n = 1 to 6) and observations (n = 1 to 59) addressing each response variable were limited. Tillage type (conventional and reduced) did not influence the response of weed density, control, and seed production in narrow row spacing; however, weed biomass and weed seed production were more greatly reduced with the sequential application of herbicides compared with a single application. Thus, narrow row spacing in soybean can be integrated with other options for management of herbicide-resistant weeds.
Measurement Invariance Widely Holds for the Yale-Brown Obsessive	Compulsive Scale
Authors: Schulze Daniel , Reuter Benedikt , Elsner Björn , Kathmann Norbert
Published: September 2023

Abstract: The clinician-rated Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) is a widely used assessment tool for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, the measurement invariance (MI) properties of the Y-BOCS, a prerequisite for group or time point comparisons in clinical research, have received little attention in previous studies. In this study, we aim to comprehensively investigate the factor structure and MI of the Y-BOCS severity rating and its symptom checklist, utilizing a large sample of OCD patients ( N = 1,066). Our analysis considers various MI covariates, including time (pre- and post-therapy), severity, comorbidity, previous treatments, and demographics. Overall, the majority of tests conducted on the Y-BOCS severity rating and its symptom checklist revealed no substantial issues with MI, reinforcing the validity of the Y-BOCS for comparative clinical research. Specifically, we discuss a three-factor model for the severity rating, contrasting with a two-factor model for obsessions and compulsions when excluding the resistance items. Notably, our findings underscore the advantages and validity of employing latent factors rather than sum scores to model OCD severity and symptoms.
Shifts in Tectonic Plates Change Biodiversity
Authors: Beurteaux Danielle
Published: September 2023

A 36-million-year cycle of marine biodiversity booms and busts matches the movements of plate tectonics, linking what happens deep below the ocean to what’s happening in it.
Polar Vortex Strength Impacts on the Longitudinal Structure of Thermospheric Composition and Ionospheric Electron Density
Authors: Greer K. R. , Goncharenko L. P. , Harvey V. L. , Pedatella N.
Published: September 2023

This work examines the weak stratospheric polar vortex event in late February 2008 and the strong polar vortex event in late February 2021 to understand the potential influence of polar vortex strength on midlatitude thermospheric composition and ionospheric plasma density. The weak polar vortex event shows a reduction in thermospheric O/N2 at all longitudes, changes in the ionospheric total electron content (TEC) that vary with longitude, and an intensification of the semidiurnal tides. The strong polar vortex event shows O/N2 elevated by up to 25% in the Asian sector and a 25% decrease in semidiurnal tidal amplitude. The TEC response during the strong polar vortex event is complex and shows enhanced TEC in the Asian sector where O/N2 is elevated. These are the first observations of anomalies in the thermospheric composition and ionospheric plasma associated with a strong polar vortex event.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and thyroid hormone measurements in dried blood spots and neonatal characteristics: a pilot study
Authors: Rosen Vollmar Ana K. , Lin Elizabeth Z. , Nason Sara L. , Santiago Katerina , Johnson Caroline H. , Ma Xiaomei , Godri Pollitt Krystal J. , Deziel Nicole C.
Published: September 2023

Background

Pediatric thyroid diseases have been increasing in recent years. Environmental risk factors such as exposures to chemical contaminants may play a role but are largely unexplored. Archived neonatal dried blood spots (DBS) offer an innovative approach to investigate environmental exposures and effects.

Objective

In this pilot study, we applied a new method for quantifying per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to 18 archived DBS from babies born in California from 1985–2018 and acquired thyroid hormone measurements from newborn screening tests. Leveraging these novel data, we evaluated (1) changes in the concentrations of eight PFAS over time and (2) the relationship between PFAS concentrations, thyroid hormone concentrations, and neonatal characteristics to inform future research.

Methods

PFAS concentrations in DBS were measured using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Summary statistics and non-parametric Wilcoxon rank-sum and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to evaluate temporal changes in PFAS concentrations and relationships between PFAS concentrations, thyroid hormone concentrations, and neonatal characteristics.

Results

The concentration and detection frequencies of several PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, and PFOSA) declined over the assessment period. We observed that the timing of specimen collection in hours after birth was related to thyroid hormone but not PFAS concentrations, and that thyroid hormones were related to some PFAS concentrations (PFOA and PFOS).

Impact statement

This pilot study examines the relationship between concentrations of eight per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), thyroid hormone levels, and neonatal characteristics in newborn dried blood spots (DBS) collected over a period of 33 years. To our knowledge, 6 of the 22 PFAS we attempted to measure have not been quantified previously in neonatal DBS, and this is the first study to examine both PFAS and thyroid hormone concentrations using DBS. This research demonstrates the feasibility of using newborn DBS for quantifying PFAS exposures in population-based studies, highlights methodological considerations in the use of thyroid hormone data for future studies using newborn DBS, and indicates potential relationships between PFAS concentrations and thyroid hormones for follow-up in future research.
mRNA vaccines in disease prevention and treatment
Authors: Zhang Gang , Tang Tianyu , Chen Yinfeng , Huang Xing , Liang Tingbo
Published: September 2023

mRNA vaccines have emerged as highly effective strategies in the prophylaxis and treatment of diseases, thanks largely although not totally to their extraordinary performance in recent years against the worldwide plague COVID-19. The huge superiority of mRNA vaccines regarding their efficacy, safety, and large-scale manufacture encourages pharmaceutical industries and biotechnology companies to expand their application to a diverse array of diseases, despite the nonnegligible problems in design, fabrication, and mode of administration. This review delves into the technical underpinnings of mRNA vaccines, covering mRNA design, synthesis, delivery, and adjuvant technologies. Moreover, this review presents a systematic retrospective analysis in a logical and well-organized manner, shedding light on representative mRNA vaccines employed in various diseases. The scope extends across infectious diseases, cancers, immunological diseases, tissue damages, and rare diseases, showcasing the versatility and potential of mRNA vaccines in diverse therapeutic areas. Furthermore, this review engages in a prospective discussion regarding the current challenge and potential direction for the advancement and utilization of mRNA vaccines. Overall, this comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals, providing a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects, historical context, and future prospects of mRNA vaccines in the fight against various diseases.
Osteomodulin downregulation is associated with osteoarthritis development
Authors: Zappia Jérémie , Tong Qiao , Van der Cruyssen Renée , Cornelis Frederique M. F. , Lambert Cécile , Pinto Coelho Tiago , Grisart Juliane , Kague Erika , Lories Rik J. , Muller Marc , Elewaut Dirk , Hammond Chrissy L. , Sanchez Christelle , Henrotin Yves
Published: September 2023

Abnormal subchondral bone remodeling leading to sclerosis is a main feature of osteoarthritis (OA), and osteomodulin (OMD), a proteoglycan involved in extracellular matrix mineralization, is associated with the sclerotic phenotype. However, the functions of OMD remain poorly understood, specifically in vivo. We used Omd knockout and overexpressing male mice and mutant zebrafish to study its roles in bone and cartilage metabolism and in the development of OA. The expression of Omd is deeply correlated with bone and cartilage microarchitectures affecting the bone volume and the onset of subchondral bone sclerosis and spontaneous cartilage lesions. Mechanistically, OMD binds to RANKL and inhibits osteoclastogenesis, thus controlling the balance of bone remodeling. In conclusion, OMD is a key factor in subchondral bone sclerosis associated with OA. It participates in bone and cartilage homeostasis by acting on the regulation of osteoclastogenesis. Targeting OMD may be a promising new and personalized approach for OA.
Hypoxia-induced ALDH3A1 promotes the proliferation of non-small-cell lung cancer by regulating energy metabolism reprogramming
Authors: Chen Yang , Yan Hongfei , Yan Lirong , Wang Ximing , Che Xiaofang , Hou Kezuo , Yang Yi , Li Xuena , Li Yaming , Zhang Ye , Hu Xuejun
Published: September 2023

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 (ALDH3A1) is an NAD+-dependent enzyme that is closely related to tumor development. However, its role in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been elucidated. This study aimed to clarify the mechanism of ALDH3A1 and identify potential therapeutic targets for NSCLC. Here, for the first time, we found that ALDH3A1 expression could be induced by a hypoxic environment in NSCLC. ALDH3A1 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissue, especially in some late-stage patients, and was associated with a poor prognosis. In mechanistic terms, ALDH3A1 enhances glycolysis and suppresses oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to promote cell proliferation by activating the HIF-1α/LDHA pathway in NSCLC. In addition, the results showed that ALDH3A1 was a target of β-elemene. ALDH3A1 can be downregulated by β-elemene to inhibit glycolysis and enhance OXPHOS, thus suppressing NSCLC proliferation in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, hypoxia-induced ALDH3A1 is related to the energy metabolic status of tumors and the efficacy of β-elemene, providing a new theoretical basis for better clinical applications in NSCLC.
Social and psychological adversity are associated with distinct mother and infant gut microbiome variations
Authors: Warner Barbara B. , Rosa Bruce A. , Ndao I. Malick , Tarr Phillip I. , Miller J. Philip , England Sarah K. , Luby Joan L. , Rogers Cynthia E. , Hall-Moore Carla , Bryant Renay E. , Wang Jacqueline D. , Linneman Laura A. , Smyser Tara A. , Smyser Christopher D. , Barch Deanna M. , Miller Gregory E. , Chen Edith , Martin John , Mitreva Makedonka
Published: September 2023

Health disparities are driven by underlying social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors. However, how social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors lead to adverse health outcomes is unclear, particularly when exposure begins prenatally. Variations in the gut microbiome and circulating proinflammatory cytokines offer potential mechanistic pathways. Here, we interrogate the gut microbiome of mother-child dyads to compare high-versus-low prenatal social disadvantage, psychosocial stressors and maternal circulating cytokine cohorts (prospective case-control study design using gut microbiomes from 121 dyads profiled with 16 S rRNA sequencing and 89 dyads with shotgun metagenomic sequencing). Gut microbiome characteristics significantly predictive of social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors in the mothers and children indicate that different discriminatory taxa and related pathways are involved, including many species ofBifidobacteriumand related pathways across several comparisons. The lowest inter-individual gut microbiome similarity was observed among high-social disadvantage/high-psychosocial stressors mothers, suggesting distinct environmental exposures driving a diverging gut microbiome assembly compared to low-social disadvantage/low-psychosocial stressors controls (P = 3.5 × 10−5for social disadvantage,P = 2.7 × 10−15for psychosocial stressors). Children’s gut metagenome profiles at 4 months also significantly predicted high/low maternal prenatal IL-6 (P = 0.029), with many bacterial species overlapping those identified by social disadvantage and psychosocial stressors. These differences, based on maternal social and psychological status during a critical developmental window early in life, offer potentially modifiable targets to mitigate health inequities.
Custom tuning of Rieske oxygenase reactivity
Authors: Tian Jiayi , Liu Jianxin , Knapp Madison , Donnan Patrick H. , Boggs David G. , Bridwell-Rabb Jennifer
Published: September 2023

Rieske oxygenases use a Rieske-type [2Fe-2S] cluster and a mononuclear iron center to initiate a range of chemical transformations. However, few details exist regarding how this catalytic scaffold can be predictively tuned to catalyze divergent reactions. Therefore, in this work, using a combination of structural analyses, as well as substrate and rational protein-based engineering campaigns, we elucidate the architectural trends that govern catalytic outcome in the Rieske monooxygenase TsaM. We identify structural features that permit a substrate to be functionalized by TsaM and pinpoint active-site residues that can be targeted to manipulate reactivity. Exploiting these findings allowed for custom tuning of TsaM reactivity: substrates are identified that support divergent TsaM-catalyzed reactions and variants are created that exclusively catalyze dioxygenation or sequential monooxygenation chemistry. Importantly, we further leverage these trends to tune the reactivity of additional monooxygenase and dioxygenase enzymes, and thereby provide strategies to custom tune Rieske oxygenase reaction outcomes.
Glycerol contributes to tuberculosis susceptibility in male mice with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Martinez Nuria , Smulan Lorissa J. , Jameson Michael L. , Smith Clare M. , Cavallo Kelly , Bellerose Michelle , Williams John , West Kim , Sassetti Christopher M. , Singhal Amit , Kornfeld Hardy
Published: September 2023

Diabetes mellitus increases risk for tuberculosis disease and adverse outcomes. Most people with both conditions have type 2 diabetes, but it is unknown if type 1 and type 2 diabetes have identical effects on tuberculosis susceptibility. Here we show that male mice receiving a high-fat diet and streptozotocin to model type 2 diabetes, have higher mortality, more lung pathology, and higher bacterial burden following Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection compared to mice treated with streptozotocin or high-fat diet alone. Type 2 diabetes model mice have elevated plasma glycerol, which is a preferred carbon source for M. tuberculosis. Infection studies with glycerol kinase mutant M. tuberculosis reveal that glycerol utilization contributes to the susceptibility of the type 2 diabetes mice. Hyperglycemia impairs protective immunity against M. tuberculosis in both forms of diabetes, but our data show that elevated glycerol contributes to an additional adverse effect uniquely relevant to type 2 diabetes.
mRNA-1273 bivalent (original and Omicron) COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19 outcomes in the United States
Authors: Tseng Hung Fu , Ackerson Bradley K. , Sy Lina S. , Tubert Julia E. , Luo Yi , Qiu Sijia , Lee Gina S. , Bruxvoort Katia J. , Ku Jennifer H. , Florea Ana , Takhar Harpreet S. , Bathala Radha , Zhou Cindy Ke , Esposito Daina B. , Marks Morgan A. , Anderson Evan J. , Talarico Carla A. , Qian Lei
Published: September 2023

The bivalent (original and Omicron BA.4/BA.5) mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine was authorized to offer broader protection against COVID-19. We conducted a matched cohort study to evaluate the effectiveness of the bivalent vaccine in preventing hospitalization for COVID-19 (primary outcome) and medically attended SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospital death (secondary outcomes). Compared to individuals who did not receive bivalent mRNA vaccination but received ≥2 doses of any monovalent mRNA vaccine, the relative vaccine effectiveness (rVE) against hospitalization for COVID-19 was 70.3% (95% confidence interval, 64.0%–75.4%). rVE was consistent across subgroups and not modified by time since last monovalent dose or number of monovalent doses received. Protection was durable ≥3 months after the bivalent booster. rVE against SARS-CoV-2 infection requiring emergency department/urgent care and against COVID-19 hospital death was 55.0% (50.8%–58.8%) and 82.7% (63.7%–91.7%), respectively. The mRNA-1273 bivalent booster provides additional protection against hospitalization for COVID-19, medically attended SARS-CoV-2 infection, and COVID-19 hospital death.
VE-cadherin in arachnoid and pia mater cells serves as a suitable landmark for in vivo imaging of CNS immune surveillance and inflammation
Authors: Mapunda Josephine A. , Pareja Javier , Vladymyrov Mykhailo , Bouillet Elisa , Hélie Pauline , Pleskač Petr , Barcos Sara , Andrae Johanna , Vestweber Dietmar , McDonald Donald M. , Betsholtz Christer , Deutsch Urban , Proulx Steven T. , Engelhardt Britta
Published: September 2023

Meninges cover the surface of the brain and spinal cord and contribute to protection and immune surveillance of the central nervous system (CNS). How the meningeal layers establish CNS compartments with different accessibility to immune cells and immune mediators is, however, not well understood. Here, using 2-photon imaging in female transgenic reporter mice, we describe VE-cadherin at intercellular junctions of arachnoid and pia mater cells that form the leptomeninges and border the subarachnoid space (SAS) filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). VE-cadherin expression also marked a layer of Prox1+ cells located within the arachnoid beneath and separate from E-cadherin+ arachnoid barrier cells. In vivo imaging of the spinal cord and brain in female VE-cadherin-GFP reporter mice allowed for direct observation of accessibility of CSF derived tracers and T cells into the SAS bordered by the arachnoid and pia mater during health and neuroinflammation, and detection of volume changes of the SAS during CNS pathology. Together, the findings identified VE-cadherin as an informative landmark for in vivo imaging of the leptomeninges that can be used to visualize the borders of the SAS and thus potential barrier properties of the leptomeninges in controlling access of immune mediators and immune cells into the CNS during health and neuroinflammation.
The oldest three-dimensionally preserved vertebrate neurocranium
Authors: Dearden Richard P. , Lanzetti Agnese , Giles Sam , Johanson Zerina , Jones Andy S. , Lautenschlager Stephan , Randle Emma , Sansom Ivan J.
Published: September 2023

The neurocranium is an integral part of the vertebrate head, itself a major evolutionary innovation1,2. However, its early history remains poorly understood, with great dissimilarity in form between the two living vertebrate groups: gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates) and cyclostomes (hagfishes and lampreys)2,3. The 100 Myr gap separating the Cambrian appearance of vertebrates4–6from the earliest three-dimensionally preserved vertebrate neurocrania7further obscures the origins of modern states. Here we use computed tomography to describe the cranial anatomy of an Ordovician stem-group gnathostome:Eriptychius americanusfrom the Harding Sandstone of Colorado, USA8. A fossilized head ofEriptychiuspreserves a symmetrical set of cartilages that we interpret as the preorbital neurocranium, enclosing the fronts of laterally placed orbits, terminally located mouth, olfactory bulbs and pineal organ. This suggests that, in the earliest gnathostomes, the neurocranium filled out the space between the dermal skeleton and brain, like in galeaspids, osteostracans and placoderms and unlike in cyclostomes2. However, these cartilages are not fused into a single neurocranial unit, suggesting that this is a derived gnathostome trait.Eriptychiusfills a major temporal and phylogenetic gap in our understanding of the evolution of the gnathostome head, revealing a neurocranium with an anatomy unlike that of any previously described vertebrate.
Transgenic ferret models define pulmonary ionocyte diversity and function
Authors: Yuan Feng , Gasser Grace N. , Lemire Evan , Montoro Daniel T. , Jagadeesh Karthik , Zhang Yan , Duan Yifan , Ievlev Vitaly , Wells Kristen L. , Rotti Pavana G. , Shahin Weam , Winter Michael , Rosen Bradley H. , Evans Idil , Cai Qian , Yu Miao , Walsh Susan A. , Acevedo Michael R. , Pandya Darpan N. , Akurathi Vamsidhar , Dick David W. , Wadas Thaddeus J. , Joo Nam Soo , Wine Jeffrey J. , Birket Susan , Fernandez Courtney M. , Leung Hui Min , Tearney Guillermo J. , Verkman Alan S. , Haggie Peter M. , Scott Kathleen , Bartels Douglas , Meyerholz David K. , Rowe Steven M. , Liu Xiaoming , Yan Ziying , Haber Adam L. , Sun Xingshen , Engelhardt John F.
Published: September 2023

Speciation leads to adaptive changes in organ cellular physiology and creates challenges for studying rare cell-type functions that diverge between humans and mice. Rare cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-rich pulmonary ionocytes exist throughout the cartilaginous airways of humans1,2, but limited presence and divergent biology in the proximal trachea of mice has prevented the use of traditional transgenic models to elucidate ionocyte functions in the airway. Here we describe the creation and use of conditional genetic ferret models to dissect pulmonary ionocyte biology and function by enabling ionocyte lineage tracing (FOXI1-CreERT2::ROSA-TG), ionocyte ablation (FOXI1-KO) and ionocyte-specific deletion of CFTR (FOXI1-CreERT2::CFTRL/L). By comparing these models with cystic fibrosis ferrets3,4, we demonstrate that ionocytes control airway surface liquid absorption, secretion, pH and mucus viscosity—leading to reduced airway surface liquid volume and impaired mucociliary clearance in cystic fibrosis, FOXI1-KO and FOXI1-CreERT2::CFTRL/L ferrets. These processes are regulated by CFTR-dependent ionocyte transport of Cl− and HCO3−. Single-cell transcriptomics and in vivo lineage tracing revealed three subtypes of pulmonary ionocytes and a FOXI1-lineage common rare cell progenitor for ionocytes, tuft cells and neuroendocrine cells during airway development. Thus, rare pulmonary ionocytes perform critical CFTR-dependent functions in the proximal airway that are hallmark features of cystic fibrosis airway disease. These studies provide a road map for using conditional genetics in the first non-rodent mammal to address gene function, cell biology and disease processes that have greater evolutionary conservation between humans and ferrets.
Cryo-EM structures reveal native GABAA receptor assemblies and pharmacology
Authors: Sun Chang , Zhu Hongtao , Clark Sarah , Gouaux Eric
Published: September 2023

Type A γ-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABAARs) are the principal inhibitory receptors in the brain and the target of a wide range of clinical agents, including anaesthetics, sedatives, hypnotics and antidepressants1–3. However, our understanding of GABAAR pharmacology has been hindered by the vast number of pentameric assemblies that can be derived from 19 different subunits4 and the lack of structural knowledge of clinically relevant receptors. Here, we isolate native murine GABAAR assemblies containing the widely expressed α1 subunit and elucidate their structures in complex with drugs used to treat insomnia (zolpidem (ZOL) and flurazepam) and postpartum depression (the neurosteroid allopregnanolone (APG)). Using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) analysis and single-molecule photobleaching experiments, we uncover three major structural populations in the brain: the canonical α1β2γ2 receptor containing two α1 subunits, and two assemblies containing one α1 and either an α2 or α3 subunit, in which the single α1-containing receptors feature a more compact arrangement between the transmembrane and extracellular domains. Interestingly, APG is bound at the transmembrane α/β subunit interface, even when not added to the sample, revealing an important role for endogenous neurosteroids in modulating native GABAARs. Together with structurally engaged lipids, neurosteroids produce global conformational changes throughout the receptor that modify the ion channel pore and the binding sites for GABA and insomnia medications. Our data reveal the major α1-containing GABAAR assemblies, bound with endogenous neurosteroid, thus defining a structural landscape from which subtype-specific drugs can be developed.