bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A simple, highly efficient Agrobacterium tumefaciens‐mediated moss transformation system with broad applications
Authors: Zhou Ping , Liu Xiujin , Liang Yuqing , Zhang Yan , Li Xiaoshuang , Zhang Daoyuan
Published: July 2024

Mosses, particularly desiccation-tolerant (DT) species, are important model organisms for studying genes involved in plant development and stress resistance. The lack of a simple and efficient stable moss transformation system has hindered progress in deciphering the genetic mechanisms underlying traits of interest in these organisms. Here, we present an Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation system for DT mosses that uses Agrobacterium strain EHA105 harboring the binary vector pCAMBIA1301-GUS. This system achieved transformation efficiencies of 74% and 81% in Physcomitrium patens and Bryum argenteum protonemata, respectively, without the need for culture and callus formation prior to regeneration. We detected GUS enzyme activity in the regenerated transgenic moss via histochemical staining. Southern blot, PCR, and RT-qPCR analyses confirmed the presence of the GUS gene. In addition, we successfully used this system to transform wild DT Syntrichia caninervis. Furthermore, P. patens and B. argenteum transformed using this system with the stress resistance gene EsDREB from the desert plant Eremosparton songoricum (Litv.) exhibited improved salt tolerance. We thus present an efficient tool for the genetic analysis of DT moss species, paving the way for the development of stress-resistant crop cultivars.
External shocks and dynamics of resource use patterns: empirical evidence from the Indian manufacturing sector
Authors: Mishra Tiyasa , Behera Bhagirath
Published: July 2024

While promoting manufacturing growth is imperative to boost economic growth, potential adverse consequences on natural resources and ecology have created sustainability-related concerns and challenges. In India, with the reform processes deepening further and the business environment becoming more market-oriented over the years, the adoption of appropriate measures for sustainable manufacturing growth under such conditions would require a deeper investigation of the underlying dynamics, particularly to address the impacts of external shocks. This is especially true when external shocks alter market dynamics and, hence, input is used significantly in the manufacturing sector. Given this backdrop, the present paper examines how the major external shocks to the Indian economy during in the post-reform era have altered the resource use patterns in selected manufacturing industries. The paper uses secondary data collected from the KLEMS database of the Reserve Bank of India for the period from 1980–81 to 2019–20 and applies descriptive statistics and econometric techniques to address the research objective. It is found that energy intensity, vertical integration, capital intensity, and rate of growth of total factor productivity decreased over the decades, whereas labour productivity experienced an increasing trend in most industries. However, the trends are mixed in the case of material intensity. Further, the regression results indicate significant effects of external shocks on resource use, factor productivity, and structural changes. There are also industry-specific differences in the nature and extent of such changes. Hence, a deeper investigation of the underlying factors and impacts at a disaggregate industry level is necessary to draw more robust insights.
An Efficient System for Large-Scale Collaborative Tasks in Government
Authors: Wang Lulu , He Huajun , Pan Zheyi , Bao Jie , Zheng Yu
Published: July 2024

Government collaboration tasks are integral for grassroots governance and essential for government administration. Large-scale government collaboration tasks often involve multiple departments working together to solve complex tasks that require handling large amounts of data. However, existing offline processes make it difficult to manage complex collaboration scenarios and obtain timely execution results. We introduce the concept of a spatio-temporal task tree and propose a log-based incremental update method for updating statistical values in the tree structure to fulfill the need for real-time aggregation analysis of cross-temporal task execution situations. The spatio-temporal task tree fosters collaboration across various departments and organizational hierarchies to execute complex and large-scale tasks in government effectively. By flexible adaptations to different business models, this framework addresses the shortcomings of conventional systems in promoting inter-organizational collaboration. The log-based incremental update method for calculating statistical values within a tree structure allows for the updating of multi-dimensional data statistics in seconds. This approach effectively decreases computational expenses, enhances query efficiency, and improves real-time computation response. Results from experiments demonstrate the feasibility and high availability of the proposed approach, showcasing their potential to address the challenges associated with large-scale collaborative tasks in government affairs.
Nachhaltige fachliche Entwicklung
Authors: Schulz Michael , Zuaboni Gianfranco , Buschsieweke Nele , Löhr Michael
Published: July 2024

Was ist zu dem Thema bereits bekannt?

In unserem beruflichen Alltag sind wir regelmäßig gefordert, Neuerungen und Anpassungen vorzunehmen. Doch nachhaltige Veränderungen umzusetzen, ist eine große Herausforderung.

Wie wird eine neue Perspektive eingebracht?

Vielfach sind Veränderungen von Arbeitsweisen in Organisationen als komplexe Interventionen zu begreifen. Mittels einer systematischen Vorgehensweise können Veränderungs- und Implementierungsprozesse erfolgreich gestaltet werden.

Was sind die Auswirkungen für die Praxis?

Nachhaltige Entwicklung kann gestaltet werden, bedingt jedoch den Einbezug aller beteiligter Ebenen und Personen.
From Earth to Space and Back Again: A Story of Geophysics Told by 130 Years of AGU Article Titles
Authors: Wooden Paige
Published: July 2024

We present an analysis of the most frequent words in journal article titles published by the American Geophysical Union (AGU), including articles of its first acquired journal Terrestrial Magnetism (and Atmospheric Physics) from the journal's inception in 1896, before AGU acquired it as Journal of Geophysical Research in 1959. The analysis tells one story of the development of the field of geophysics between 1896 and 2023. This story begins with studying the Earth's magnetic field and the sun's effects on it. Published article content expanded to include Earth's immediate atmosphere and as technology allowed, atmospheric composition further and further from Earth. Around the mid‐twentieth century, geophysics expanded to more rigorously study Earth's aqueous environments, and title words show that geophysicists understood that these environments could tell the story of Earth's past while predicting Earth's future. We group the analysis into multi‐decadal years for the following journals: Terrestrial Magnetism (updated to Terrestrial Magnetism and Atmospheric Electricity in 1899 and Journal of Geophysical Research in 1949), (Eos) Transactions (from 1920 to 1959), Reviews of Geophysics, Water Resources Research, Radio Science, Geophysical Research Letters (GRL), Tectonics, Paleoceanography, Global Biogeochemical Cycles (GBC), Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems (G‐Cubed), Space Weather, Journal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems (JAMES), JGR: Space Physics, JGR: Solid Earth, JGR: Oceans, JGR: Atmospheres, JGR: Planets, JGR: Earth Surface, JGR: Biogeosciences, Earth's Future, Earth and Space Science, GeoHealth, AGU Advances, Perspectives of Earth and Space Scientists, and Community Science.
Interlaboratory Comparison of Branched GDGT Temperature and pH Proxies Using Soils and Lipid Extracts
Authors: De Jonge Cindy , Peterse Francien , Nierop Klaas G. J. , Blattmann Thomas M. , Alexandre Marcelo , Ansanay‐Alex Salome , Austin Thomas , Babin Mathieu , Bard Edouard , Bauersachs Thorsten , Blewett Jerome , Boehman Brenna , Castañeda Isla S. , Chen Junhui , Conti Martina L. G. , Contreras Sergio , Cordes Julia , Davtian Nina , van Dongen Bart , Duncan Bella , Elling Felix J. , Galy Valier , Gao Shaopeng , Hefter Jens , Hinrichs Kai‐Uwe , Helling Mitchell R. , Hoorweg Mariska , Hopmans Ellen , Hou Juzhi , Huang Yongsong , Huguet Arnaud , Jia Guodong , Karger Cornelia , Keely Brendan J. , Kusch Stephanie , Li Hui , Liang Jie , Lipp Julius S. , Liu Weiguo , Lu Hongxuan , Mangelsdorf Kai , Manners Hayley , Martinez Garcia Alfredo , Menot Guillemette , Mollenhauer Gesine , Naafs B. David A. , Naeher Sebastian , O'Connor Lauren K. , Pearce Ethan M. , Pearson Ann , Rao Zhiguo , Rodrigo‐Gámiz Marta , Rosendahl Chris , Rostek Frauke , Bao Rui , Sanyal Prasanta , Schubotz Florence , Scott Wesley , Sen Rahul , Sluijs Appy , Smittenberg Rienk , Stefanescu Ioana , Sun Jia , Sutton Paul , Tierney Jess , Tejos Eduardo , Villanueva Joan , Wang Huanye , Werne Josef , Yamamoto Masanobu , Yang Huan , Zhou Aifeng
Published: July 2024

Ratios of glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGT), which are membrane lipids of bacteria and archaea, are at the base of several paleoenvironmental proxies. They are frequently applied to soils as well as lake‐ and marine sediments to generate records of past temperature and soil pH. To derive meaningful environmental information from these reconstructions, high analytical reproducibility is required. Based on submitted results by 39 laboratories from across the world, which employ a diverse range of analytical and quantification methods, we explored the reproducibility of brGDGT‐based proxies (MBT′5ME, IR, and #ringstetra) measured on four soil samples and four soil lipid extracts. Correct identification and integration of 5‐ and 6‐methyl brGDGTs is a prerequisite for the robust calculation of proxy values, but this can be challenging as indicated by the large inter‐interlaboratory variation. The exclusion of statistical outliers improves the reproducibility, where the remaining uncertainty translates into a temperature offset from median proxy values of 0.3–0.9°C and a pH offset of 0.05–0.3. There is no apparent systematic impact of the extraction method and sample preparation steps on the brGDGT ratios. Although reported GDGT concentrations are generally consistent within laboratories, they vary greatly between laboratories. This large variability in brGDGT quantification may relate to variations in ionization efficiency or specific mass spectrometer settings possibly impacting the response of brGDGTs masses relative to that of the internal standard used. While ratio values of GDGT are generally comparable, quantities can currently not be compared between laboratories.
Advantages of Inter‐Calibration for Geostationary Satellite Sensors Onboard Twin Satellites
Authors: Lee Yeeun , Ahn Myoung‐Hwan , Kang Mina , Eo Mijin , Kim Dohyeong , Moon Kyung‐Jung
Published: July 2024

To address the increasing demand for diurnal information on trace gases and aerosols, a series of geostationary (GEO) satellite programs called GEO‐constellation have been initiated, with the launch of the Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer (GEMS) onboard Geostationary Korea Multi‐Purpose Satellite 2B (GK2B). To assess the sensor performance of GEMS in orbit, the current work suggests employing an inter‐calibration methodology involving the Advanced Meteorological Imager (AMI) aboard its twin satellite, GK2A. Twin satellites have a significant advantage in obtaining collocation data sets across diverse spatiotemporal, angular, and atmospheric conditions, enabling rigorous collocation criteria effectively reducing mismatch uncertainty. The results present robust correlation coefficients over 0.99, revealing the current calibration characteristics of the sensors. This research emphasizes the advantages of the GEO‐GEO inter‐calibration, particularly the capability of analyzing spatial and temporal dependencies. These findings confirm the mutual benefit of utilizing the sensors in similar configurations, highlighting their importance for future satellite monitoring endeavors.
From Shelfbreak to Shoreline: Coastal Sea Level and Local Ocean Dynamics in the Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Camargo C. M. L. , Piecuch C. G. , Raubenheimer B.
Published: July 2024

Sea‐level change threatens the U.S. East Coast. Thus, it is important to understand the underlying causes, including ocean dynamics. Most past studies emphasized links between coastal sea level and local atmospheric variability or large‐scale circulation and climate, but possible relationships with local ocean currents over the shelf and slope remain largely unexplored. Here we use 7 years of in situ velocity and sea‐level data to quantify the relationship between northeastern U.S. coastal sea level and variable Shelfbreak Jet transport south of Nantucket Island. At timescales of 1–15 days, southern New England coastal sea level and transport vary in anti‐phase, with magnitude‐squared coherences of ∼0.5 and admittance amplitudes of ∼0.3 m Sv−1. These results are consistent with a dominant geostrophic balance between along‐shelf transport and coastal sea level, corroborating a hypothesis made decades ago that was not tested due to the lack of transport data.
Energy Conservation in the Cooling and Contracting Upper Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere
Authors: Mlynczak Martin G. , Hunt Linda A. , Garcia Rolando , Lopez‐Puertas Manuel , Mertens Christopher J. , Nowak Nabil , Marshall B. Thomas
Published: July 2024

Time series of radiative cooling of the upper mesosphere and lower thermosphere (UMLT) by carbon dioxide (CO2) are examined for evidence of trends over 20 years. Radiative cooling rates in K day−1 provided by the SABER instrument are converted to time series of infrared power radiated from three distinct layers between 0.1 hPa and 0.0001 hPa (65–105 km). Linear regression against time and a predictor for solar variability provides estimates of the trend in exiting longwave radiation (ELR) from these layers. Trends in ELR are not significantly different from zero at 95% or 99% confidence in each layer. These results demonstrate energy conservation in the UMLT on decadal time scales and show that the UMLT continues to radiate the same amount of energy it receives despite cooling and contracting over two decades. These results are enabled by the long‐term stability of the SABER instrument calibration.
Observed Increase in Tropical Cyclone‐Induced Sea Surface Cooling Near the U.S. Southeast Coast
Authors: John Effy B. , Balaguru Karthik , Leung L. Ruby , Hagos Samson M. , Hetland Robert D.
Published: July 2024

Tropical cyclones (TCs) induce substantial upper‐ocean mixing and upwelling, leading to sea surface cooling. In this study, we explore changes in TC‐induced cold wakes along the United States (U.S.) Southeast and Gulf Coasts during 1982–2020. Our study shows a significant increase in TC‐induced sea surface temperature (SST) cooling of about 0.20°C near the U.S. Southeast Coast over this period. However, for the U.S. Gulf Coast, trends in TC‐induced SST cooling are insignificant. Analysis of the large‐scale oceanic environments indicate that the increasing TC‐induced cold wakes near the Southeast coast have been predominantly caused by the cooling of subsurface waters in that region. This upper‐ocean change is attributed to the enhancement of surface pressure gradient across land‐sea boundary and the associated increase in alongshore winds over there. Further analysis with climate models reveals the important role of anthropogenic forcings in driving these changes in the atmospheric circulation response along the U.S. Southeast Coast.
Cloud Susceptibility to Aerosols: Comparing Cloud‐Appearance Versus Cloud‐Controlling Factors Regimes
Authors: Liu Jihu , Zhu Yannian , Wang Minghuai , Rosenfeld Daniel , Cao Yang , Yuan Tianle
Published: July 2024

Clouds can be classified into regimes based on their appearance or meteorological controlling factors. The cloud appearance regimes inherently include adjustments to aerosol effects, such as transitions between closed and open cells. Therefore, calculating cloud susceptibilities to aerosols for each cloud‐appearance regime individually and then aggregating them excludes much of the cloud adjustment component of the susceptibilities. In contrast, aggregating susceptibilities over regimes defined by cloud‐controlling factors includes the full effects of cloud adjustments. Here we compared the susceptibilities of the two kinds of cloud regimes and demonstrated this effect. Overall, increasing cloud droplet number concentration (Nd) consistently correlates to weaker precipitation, higher cloud fraction (CF), and reduced liquid water path, regardless of how the regime is defined. However, their susceptibilities to Nd aggregated over cloud‐appearance regimes are significantly lower than those aggregated over cloud‐controlling factors regimes, with lower‐tropospheric stability (LTS) serving as an example to define cloud‐controlling factors regimes. This underestimation is more pronounced for CF susceptibility, where the susceptibility for cloud appearance regimes is only 1/4 of the susceptibility for cloud controlling regimes. These findings imply that relying solely on cloud‐appearance regimes may underestimate the effective radiative forcing produced by cloud adjustment (ERFaci). Nevertheless, the substantial variability in the magnitude of cloud adjustment across appearance regimes at similar LTS also suggests that a single cloud‐controlling factor is not sufficient to fully separate cloud regimes to quantify cloud adjustment. Therefore, identifying a comprehensive set of cloud‐controlling factors is essential for accurately quantifying cloud adjustments in future studies.
Environmental and neurodevelopmental contributors to youth mental illness
Authors: Whittle Sarah , Zhang Lu , Rakesh Divyangana
Published: July 2024

While a myriad of factors likely contribute to the development of mental illness in young people, the social environment (including early adverse experiences) in concert with neurodevelopmental alterations is undeniably important. A number of influential theories make predictions about how and why neurodevelopmental alterations may mediate or moderate the effects of the social environment on the emergence of mental illness. Here, we discuss current evidence supporting each of these theories. Although this area of research is rapidly growing, the body of evidence is still relatively limited. However, there exist some consistent findings, including increased striatal reactivity during positive affective processing and larger hippocampal volumes being associated with increased vulnerability or susceptibility to the effects of social environments on internalizing symptoms. Limited longitudinal work has investigated neurodevelopmental mechanisms linking the social environment with mental health. Drawing from human research and insights from animal studies, we propose an integrated mediation-moderation model and outline future research directions to advance the field.
USP32 facilitates non-small cell lung cancer progression via deubiquitinating BAG3 and activating RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Li Shuang , Yang Lina , Ding Xiaoyan , Sun Hongxiao , Dong Xiaolei , Yang Fanghao , Wang Mengjun , Zhang Huhu , Li Ya , Li Bing , Liu Chunyan
Published: July 2024

The regulatory significance of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 32 (USP32) in tumor is significant, nevertheless, the biological roles and regulatory mechanisms of USP32 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unclear. According to our research, USP32 was strongly expressed in NSCLC cell lines and tissues and was linked to a bad prognosis for NSCLC patients. Interference with USP32 resulted in a significant inhibition of NSCLC cell proliferation, migration potential, and EMT development; on the other hand, USP32 overexpression had the opposite effect. To further elucidate the mechanism of action of USP32 in NSCLC, we screened H1299 cells for interacting proteins and found that USP32 interacts with BAG3 (Bcl2-associated athanogene 3) and deubiquitinates and stabilizes BAG3 in a deubiquitinating activity-dependent manner. Functionally, restoration of BAG3 expression abrogated the antitumor effects of USP32 silencing. Furthermore, USP32 increased the phosphorylation level of the RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway in NSCLC cells by stabilizing BAG3. In summary, these findings imply that USP32 is critical to the development of NSCLC and could offer a theoretical framework for the clinical diagnosis and management of NSCLC patients in the future.
Bad habits–good goals? Meta-analysis and translation of the habit construct to alcoholism
Authors: Giannone F. , Ebrahimi C. , Endrass T. , Hansson A. C. , Schlagenhauf F. , Sommer W. H.
Published: July 2024

Excessive alcohol consumption remains a global public health crisis, with millions suffering from alcohol use disorder (AUD, or simply “alcoholism”), leading to significantly reduced life expectancy. This review examines the interplay between habitual and goal-directed behaviors and the associated neurobiological changes induced by chronic alcohol exposure. Contrary to a strict habit-goal dichotomy, our meta-analysis of the published animal experiments combined with a review of human studies reveals a nuanced transition between these behavioral control systems, emphasizing the need for refined terminology to capture the probabilistic nature of decision biases in individuals with a history of chronic alcohol exposure. Furthermore, we distinguish habitual responding from compulsivity, viewing them as separate entities with diverse roles throughout the stages of the addiction cycle. By addressing species-specific differences and translational challenges in habit research, we provide insights to enhance future investigations and inform strategies for combatting AUD.
Inclusion of clinical photographs with general dental practitioner electronic referrals of patients with oral mucosal disease to secondary care: a service review
Authors: Webb Leah R. , Simms Melanie L. , Atkin Philip A.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction This service evaluation reviewed how the inclusion of photographs in dentist referrals to an oral medicine specialist service can improve the service for triage, prioritisation and diagnosis.

Materials and methods Data were prospectively collected from e-referrals over a four-month period. Any change in appointment prioritisation resulting from review of photographs at the vetting stage was recorded.

Results Only 29.5% (82 of 367) of referrals included a photograph. Of these, 5% were ‘rejected with advice' since the photograph indicated the patient did not require a secondary care appointment. Additionally, 14% of all referrals were upgraded in urgency, five of which were due to concerns of malignancy, and three of five were upgraded solely based on the photographs as they showed features of possible malignancy, where the written element of the referral did not describe nor raise such concerns.

Discussion and conclusions Including a photograph with a referral can often make up for inaccurate or insufficient written content, allowing appropriate and safe prioritisation, especially where the referrer has failed to recognise possible malignancy. Photographs can also prevent unnecessary referral upgrades, ensure an appointment is necessary and can be invaluable as a baseline comparator.
Human papillomavirus-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells lose viability during triggered myocyte lineage differentiation
Authors: Gendreizig Sarah , Martínez-Ruiz Laura , López-Rodríguez Alba , Pabla Harkiren , Hose Leonie , Brasch Frank , Busche Tobias , Escames Germaine , Sudhoff Holger , Scholtz Lars Uwe , Todt Ingo , Oppel Felix
Published: July 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly malignant disease, and death rates have remained at approximately 50% for decades. New tumor-targeting strategies are desperately needed, and a previous report indicated the triggered differentiation of HPV-negative HNSCC cells to confer therapeutic benefits. Using patient-derived tumor cells, we created a similar HNSCC differentiation model of HPV+ tumor cells from two patients. We observed a loss of malignant characteristics in differentiating cell culture conditions, including irregularly enlarged cell morphology, cell cycle arrest with downregulation of Ki67, and reduced cell viability. RNA-Seq showed myocyte-like differentiation with upregulation of markers of myofibril assembly. Immunofluorescence staining of differentiated and undifferentiated primary HPV+ HNSCC cells confirmed an upregulation of these markers and the formation of parallel actin fibers reminiscent of myoblast-lineage cells. Moreover, immunofluorescence of HPV+ tumor tissue revealed areas of cells co-expressing the identified markers of myofibril assembly, HPV surrogate marker p16, and stress-associated basal keratinocyte marker KRT17, indicating that the observed myocyte-like in vitro differentiation occurs in human tissue. We are the first to report that carcinoma cells can undergo a triggered myocyte-like differentiation, and our study suggests that the targeted differentiation of HPV+ HNSCCs might be therapeutically valuable.
Pseudoirreversible inhibition elicits persistent efficacy of a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 antagonist
Authors: Maruyama Yuya , Ohsawa Yusuke , Suzuki Takayuki , Yamauchi Yuko , Ohno Kohsuke , Inoue Hitoshi , Yamamoto Akitoshi , Hayashi Morimichi , Okuhara Yuji , Muramatsu Wataru , Namiki Kano , Hagiwara Naho , Miyauchi Maki , Miyao Takahisa , Ishikawa Tatsuya , Horie Kenta , Hayama Mio , Akiyama Nobuko , Hirokawa Takatsugu , Akiyama Taishin
Published: July 2024

Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1), a G protein-coupled receptor, is required for lymphocyte trafficking, and is a promising therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases. Here, we synthesize a competitive S1PR1 antagonist, KSI-6666, that effectively suppresses pathogenic inflammation. Metadynamics simulations suggest that the interaction of KSI-6666 with a methionine residue Met124 in the ligand-binding pocket of S1PR1 may inhibit the dissociation of KSI-6666 from S1PR1. Consistently, in vitro functional and mutational analyses reveal that KSI-6666 causes pseudoirreversible inhibition of S1PR1, dependent on the Met124 of the protein and substituents on the distal benzene ring of KSI-6666. Moreover, in vivo study suggests that this pseudoirreversible inhibition is responsible for the persistent activity of KSI-6666.
Combined inhibition of KRASG12C and mTORC1 kinase is synergistic in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kitai Hidenori , Choi Philip H. , Yang Yu C. , Boyer Jacob A. , Whaley Adele , Pancholi Priya , Thant Claire , Reiter Jason , Chen Kevin , Markov Vladimir , Taniguchi Hirokazu , Yamaguchi Rui , Ebi Hiromichi , Evans James , Jiang Jingjing , Lee Bianca , Wildes David , de Stanchina Elisa , Smith Jacqueline A. M. , Singh Mallika , Rosen Neal
Published: July 2024

Current KRASG12C (OFF) inhibitors that target inactive GDP-bound KRASG12C cause responses in less than half of patients and these responses are not durable. A class of RASG12C (ON) inhibitors that targets active GTP-bound KRASG12C blocks ERK signaling more potently than the inactive-state inhibitors. Sensitivity to either class of agents is strongly correlated with inhibition of mTORC1 activity. We have previously shown that PI3K/mTOR and ERK-signaling pathways converge on key cellular processes and that inhibition of both pathways is required for inhibition of these processes and for significant antitumor activity. We find here that the combination of a KRASG12C inhibitor with a selective mTORC1 kinase inhibitor causes synergistic inhibition of Cyclin D1 expression and cap-dependent translation. Moreover, BIM upregulation by KRASG12C inhibition and inhibition of MCL-1 expression by the mTORC1 inhibitor are both required to induce significant cell death. In vivo, this combination causes deep, durable tumor regressions and is well tolerated. This study suggests that the ERK and PI3K/mTOR pathways each mitigate the effects of inhibition of the other and that combinatorial inhibition is a potential strategy for treating KRASG12C-dependent lung cancer.
Water training initiates spatially regulated microstructures with competitive mechanics in hydroadaptive polymers
Authors: Chen Wenbo , Huang Caoxing , Biehl Philip , Zhang Kai
Published: July 2024

The strategy using water as a medium for dynamic modulation of competitive plasticity and viscoelasticity provides a unique perspective to attain adaptive materials. We reveal sustainable polymers, herein cellulose phenoxyacetate as a typical example, with unusual water-responsive dual-mechanic functionalities addressed via a chronological water training strategy. The temporal significance of such water-responsive mechanical behaviors becomes apparent considering that a mere 3-minute exposure or a prolonged 3-hour exposure to water induced different types of mechano-responsiveness. This endows the materials with multiple recoverable shape-changes during water and air training, and consequently even underlines the switchability between the pre-loaded stable water shapes (> 20 months) and the sequentially fixed air shapes. Our discovery exploits the competitive mechanics initiated by water training, enabling polymers with spatially regulated microstructures via their inherently distinct mechanical properties. Insights into the molecular changes represents a considerable fundamental innovation, can be broadly applicable to a diverse array of hydroadaptive polymers.
Radiative cooling assisted self-sustaining and highly efficient moisture energy harvesting
Authors: Guo Chenyue , Tang Huajie , Wang Pengfei , Xu Qihao , Pan Haodan , Zhao Xinyu , Fan Fan , Li Tingxian , Zhao Dongliang
Published: July 2024

Harvesting electricity from ubiquitous water vapor represents a promising route to alleviate the energy crisis. However, existing studies rarely comprehensively consider the impact of natural environmental fluctuations on electrical output. Here, we demonstrate a bilayer polymer enabling self-sustaining and highly efficient moisture-electric generation from the hydrological cycle by establishing a stable internal directed water/ion flow through thermal exchange with the ambient environment. Specifically, the radiative cooling effect of the hydrophobic top layer prevents the excessive daytime evaporation from solar absorption while accelerating nighttime moisture sorption. The introduction of LiCl into the bottom hygroscopic ionic hydrogel enhances moisture sorption capacity and facilitates ion transport, thus ensuring efficient energy conversion. A single device unit (1 cm2) can continuously generate a voltage of ~0.88 V and a current of ~306 μA, delivering a maximum power density of ~51 μW cm−2 at 25 °C and 70% relative humidity (RH). The device has been demonstrated to operate steadily outdoors for continuous 6 days.
Electron iso-density surfaces provide a thermodynamically consistent representation of atomic and molecular surfaces
Authors: Alibakhshi Amin , Schäfer Lars V.
Published: July 2024

The surface area of atoms and molecules plays a crucial role in shaping many physiochemical properties of materials. Despite its fundamental importance, precisely defining atomic and molecular surfaces has long been a puzzle. Among the available definitions, a straightforward and elegant approach by Bader describes a molecular surface as an iso-density surface beyond which the electron density drops below a certain cut-off. However, so far neither this theory nor a decisive value for the density cut-off have been amenable to experimental verification due to the limitations of conventional experimental methods. In the present study, we employ a state-of-the-art experimental method based on the recently developed concept of thermodynamically effective (TE) surfaces to tackle this longstanding problem. By studying a set of 104 molecules, a close to perfect agreement between quantum chemical evaluations of iso-density surfaces contoured at a cut-off density of 0.0016 a.u. and experimental results obtained via thermodynamic phase change data is demonstrated, with a mean unsigned percentage deviation of 1.6% and a correlation coefficient of 0.995. Accordingly, we suggest the iso-density surface contoured at an electron density value of 0.0016 a.u. as a representation of the surface of atoms and molecules.
Microplastic detection and remediation through efficient interfacial solar evaporation for immaculate water production
Authors: Yu Zhen , Li Yang , Zhang Yaoxin , Xu Ping , Lv Chade , Li Wulong , Maryam Bushra , Liu Xianhua , Tan Swee Ching
Published: July 2024

Freshwater scarcity and microplastics (MPs) pollution are two concerning and intertwined global challenges. In this work, we propose a “one stone kills two birds” strategy by employing an interfacial solar evaporation platform (ISEP) combined with a MPs adsorbent. This strategy aims to produce clean water and simultaneously enhance MPs removal. Unlike traditional predecessors, our ISEP generates condensed water free from MPs contamination. Additionally, the photothermally driven interfacial separation process significantly improves the MPs removal performance. We observed a removal ratio increase of up to 5.5 times compared to previously reported MPs adsorbents. Thus, our rationally-designed ISEP holds promising potential to not only mitigate the existing water scarcity issue but also remediate MPs pollution in natural water environments.
IL-1R signaling drives enteric glia-macrophage interactions in colorectal cancer
Authors: van Baarle Lies , De Simone Veronica , Schneider Linda , Santhosh Sneha , Abdurahiman Saeed , Biscu Francesca , Schneider Reiner , Zanoletti Lisa , Siqueira de Mello Renata , Verbandt Sara , Hu Zedong , Stakenborg Michelle , Ke Bo-Jun , Stakenborg Nathalie , Salvador Laureano Raquel , García-Reyes Balbina , Henn Jonas , Toma Marieta , Vanmechelen Maxime , Boeckxstaens Guy , De Smet Frederik , Garg Abhishek D. , Ibiza Sales , Tejpar Sabine , Wehner Sven , Matteoli Gianluca
Published: July 2024

Enteric glia have been recently recognized as key components of the colonic tumor microenvironment indicating their potential role in colorectal cancer pathogenesis. Although enteric glia modulate immune responses in other intestinal diseases, their interaction with the colorectal cancer immune cell compartment remains unclear. Through a combination of single-cell and bulk RNA-sequencing, both in murine models and patients, here we find that enteric glia acquire an immunomodulatory phenotype by bi-directional communication with tumor-infiltrating monocytes. The latter direct a reactive enteric glial cell phenotypic and functional switch via glial IL-1R signaling. In turn, tumor glia promote monocyte differentiation towards pro-tumorigenic SPP1+ tumor-associated macrophages by IL-6 release. Enteric glia cell abundancy correlates with worse disease outcomes in preclinical models and colorectal cancer patients. Thereby, our study reveals a neuroimmune interaction between enteric glia and tumor-associated macrophages in the colorectal tumor microenvironment, providing insights into colorectal cancer pathogenesis.
A universal packaging substrate for mechanically stable assembly of stretchable electronics
Authors: Shao Yan , Yan Jianfeng , Zhi Yinglin , Li Chun , Li Qingxian , Wang Kaimin , Xia Rui , Xiang Xinyue , Liu Liqian , Chen Guoli , Zhang Hanxue , Cai Daohang , Wang Haochuan , Cheng Xing , Yang Canhui , Ren Fuzeng , Yu Yanhao
Published: July 2024

Stretchable electronics commonly assemble multiple material modules with varied bulk moduli and surface chemistry on one packaging substrate. Preventing the strain-induced delamination between the module and the substrate has been a critical challenge. Here we develop a packaging substrate that delivers mechanically stable module/substrate interfaces for a broad range of stiff and stretchable modules with varied surface chemistries. The key design of the substrate was to introduce module-specific stretchability and universal adhesiveness by regionally tuning the bulk molecular mobility and surface molecular polarity of a near-hermetic elastic polymer matrix. The packaging substrate can customize the deformation of different modules while avoiding delamination upon stretching up to 600%. Based on this substrate, we fabricated a fully stretchable bioelectronic device that can serve as a respiration sensor or an electric generator with an in vivo lifetime of 10 weeks. This substrate could be a versatile platform for device assembly.
High-purity ethylene production via indirect carbon dioxide electrochemical reduction
Authors: Ni Wenpeng , Chen Houjun , Tang Naizhuo , Hu Ting , Zhang Wei , Zhang Yan , Zhang Shiguo
Published: July 2024

High-purity ethylene production from CO2 electroreduction (CO2RR) is a coveted, yet arduous feat because the product stream comprises a blend of unreacted CO2, H2, and other off-target CO2 reduction products. Here we present an indirect reduction strategy for CO2-to-ethylene conversion, one that employs 2-bromoethanol (Br-EO) as a mediator. Br-EO is initially generated from CO2RR and subsequently undergoes reduction to ethylene without the need for energy-intensive separation steps. The optimized AC-Ag/C catalyst with Cl incorporation reduces the energy barrier of the debromination step during Br-EO reduction, and accelerates the mass-transfer process, delivering a 4-fold decrease of the relaxation time constant. Resultantly, AC-Ag/C achieved a FEethylene of over 95.0 ± 0.36% at a low potential of −0.08 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in an H-type cell with 0.5 M KCl electrolyte, alongside a near 100% selectivity within the range of −0.38 to −0.58 V versus RHE. Through this indirect strategy, the average ethylene purity within 6-hour electrolysis was 98.00 ± 1.45 wt%, at −0.48 V (vs RHE) from the neutralized electrolyte after CO2 reduction over the Cu/Cu2O catalyst in a flow-cell.
The cluster decomposition of the configurational energy of multicomponent alloys
Authors: Barroso-Luque Luis , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: July 2024

The cluster expansion method (CEM) is a widely used lattice-based technique in the study of multicomponent alloys. Despite its prevalent use, a clear understanding of expansion terms is lacking. We present a modern mathematical formalism of the CEM and introduce the cluster decomposition—a unique and basis-independent decomposition for functions of the atomic configuration in a crystal. We identify the cluster decomposition as an invariant ANOVA decomposition; and demonstrate how functional analysis of variance and sensitivity analysis can be used to interpret interactions among species. Furthermore, we show how the mathematical structure of the cluster decomposition enables numerical evaluation that scales with the number of clusters and is independent of the number of species. Overall, our work enables rigorous interpretations of interactions among species, provides opportunities to explore parameter estimation beyond linear regression, introduces a numerical efficient implementation, and enables analysis of cluster expansions based on established mathematical and statistical principles.
Spaceflight increases sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ leak and this cannot be counteracted with BuOE treatment
Authors: Braun Jessica L. , Fajardo Val A.
Published: July 2024

Spending time in a microgravity environment is known to cause significant skeletal muscle atrophy and weakness via muscle unloading, which can be partly attributed to Ca2+ dysregulation. The sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) pump is responsible for bringing Ca2+ from the cytosol into its storage site, the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), at the expense of ATP. We have recently demonstrated that, in the soleus of space-flown mice, the Ca2+ uptake ability of the SERCA pump is severely impaired and this may be attributed to increases in reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RONS), to which SERCA is highly susceptible. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate whether treatment with the antioxidant, Manganese(III) meso-tetrakis(N-n-butoxyethylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrin, MnTnBuOE-2-PyP5+ (BuOE), could attenuate muscle atrophy and SERCA dysfunction. We received soleus muscles from the rodent research 18 mission which had male mice housed on the international space station for 35 days and treated with either saline or BuOE. Spaceflight significantly reduced the soleus:body mass ratio and significantly increased SERCA’s ionophore ratio, a measure of SR Ca2+ leak, and 4-HNE content (marker of RONS), none of which could be rescued by BuOE treatment. In conclusion, we find that spaceflight induces significant soleus muscle atrophy and SR Ca2+ leak that cannot be counteracted with BuOE treatment. Future work should investigate alternative therapeutics that are specifically aimed at increasing SERCA activation or reducing Ca2+ leak.
Low charge noise quantum dots with industrial CMOS manufacturing
Authors: Elsayed A. , Shehata M. M. K. , Godfrin C. , Kubicek S. , Massar S. , Canvel Y. , Jussot J. , Simion G. , Mongillo M. , Wan D. , Govoreanu B. , Radu I. P. , Li R. , Van Dorpe P. , De Greve K.
Published: July 2024

Silicon spin qubits are promising candidates for scalable quantum computers, due to their coherence and compatibility with CMOS technology. Advanced industrial processes ensure wafer-scale uniformity and high device yield, but traditional transistor processes cannot be directly transferred to qubit structures. To leverage the micro-electronics industry expertise, we customize a 300 mm wafer fabrication line for silicon MOS qubit integration. With careful optimization of the gate stack, we report uniform quantum dot operation at the Si/SiO2 interface at mK temperature. We measure a record-low average noise with a value of 0.61 $${\rm{\mu }}{\rm{eVH}}{{\rm{z}}}^{-0.5}$$

μ
eVH

z

−
0.5

at 1 Hz and even below 0.1 $${\rm{\mu }}{\rm{eVH}}{{\rm{z}}}^{-0.5}$$

μ
eVH

z

−
0.5

for some operating conditions. Statistical analysis of the charge noise measurements show that the noise source can be described by a two-level fluctuator model. This reproducible low noise level, in combination with uniform operation of our quantum dots, marks CMOS manufactured spin qubits as a mature platform towards scalable high-fidelity qubits.
Attenuated conflict self-referential information facilitating conflict resolution
Authors: Li Zhifang , Wang Jing , Chen Yongqiang , Li Qing , Yin Shouhang , Chen Antao
Published: July 2024

Self-referential information can reduce the congruency effect by acting as a signal to enhance cognitive control. However, it cannot be denied that self-referential information can attract and hold attention. To investigate this issue, the study used a revised Stroop task and recorded behavioral and electrophysiological data from thirty-three participants. We combined event-related potential (ERP) and multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) to examine the neural correlates of self-referential processing and conflict processing. In the behavioral results, self-referential information reduced the congruency effect. Specifically, self-reference stimuli elicited smaller N2 amplitude than non-self-reference stimuli, indicating that self-referential information was promptly identified and reduced top-down cognitive resource consumption. Self-referential information could be reliably decoded from ERP signals in the early-to-mid stage. Moreover, self-reference conditions exhibited earlier congruency decoding than non-self-reference conditions, facilitating conflict monitoring. In the late stage, under the incongruent condition, self-reference stimuli elicited smaller sustained potential amplitude than non-self-reference stimuli, indicating that cognitive control in the self-reference condition required fewer cognitive resources for conflict resolution. Together, these findings revealed that self-referential information was identified and facilitated conflict monitoring, leading to more effective conflict resolution.
Opportunities to strengthen Africa’s efforts to track national-level climate adaptation
Authors: Nowak Andreea C. , Njuguna Lucy , Ramirez-Villegas Julian , Reidsma Pytrik , Crumpler Krystal , Rosenstock Todd S.
Published: July 2024

Tracking progress towards the Global Goal on Adaptation requires documentation of countries’ intentions, against which future progress can be measured. The extent to which existing national policy documents provide adequate baselines is unclear. We evaluated the adequacy of African Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) (N = 53) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) (N = 15) against three criteria—coverage, consistency and robustness—mapped to the adaptation cycle. Fifty-three percent of NAPs and 8% of NDCs cover all elements needed for providing sufficient baselines for tracking adaptation progress. Only 40% and 9% of the NAPs and NDCs, respectively, provide consistent links between climate risk assessment, planning, implementation and tracking. No document provided fully robust indicators to operationalize tracking. Notable efforts towards adequacy exist, especially in NAPs. The findings illustrate continental-scale advances and shortcomings for tracking progress, and emphasize opportunities in upcoming NDC revisions and NAP processes to enhance their coverage, consistency and robustness for future adaptation tracking.
Sleep patterns and risk of chronic disease as measured by long-term monitoring with commercial wearable devices in the All of Us Research Program
Authors: Zheng Neil S. , Annis Jeffrey , Master Hiral , Han Lide , Gleichauf Karla , Ching Jack H. , Nasser Melody , Coleman Peyton , Desine Stacy , Ruderfer Douglas M. , Hernandez John , Schneider Logan D. , Brittain Evan L.
Published: July 2024

Poor sleep health is associated with increased all-cause mortality and incidence of many chronic conditions. Previous studies have relied on cross-sectional and self-reported survey data or polysomnograms, which have limitations with respect to data granularity, sample size and longitudinal information. Here, using objectively measured, longitudinal sleep data from commercial wearable devices linked to electronic health record data from the All of Us Research Program, we show that sleep patterns, including sleep stages, duration and regularity, are associated with chronic disease incidence. Of the 6,785 participants included in this study, 71% were female, 84% self-identified as white and 71% had a college degree; the median age was 50.2 years (interquartile range = 35.7, 61.5) and the median sleep monitoring period was 4.5 years (2.5, 6.5). We found that rapid eye movement sleep and deep sleep were inversely associated with the odds of incident atrial fibrillation and that increased sleep irregularity was associated with increased odds of incident obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Moreover, J-shaped associations were observed between average daily sleep duration and hypertension, major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. These findings show that sleep stages, duration and regularity are all important factors associated with chronic disease development and may inform evidence-based recommendations on healthy sleeping habits.