bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A reciprocity calibration of hydrophones in a non-anechoic water tank: Method and realization
Authors: Yang Liuqing , Chen Yi , Huang Yongjun , Zhang Jun
Published: January 2025

To measure the electroacoustic parameters of transducers in the continuous sound field in a limited water area, a reciprocity calibration method of hydrophones using a spatial sampling average method in a non-anechoic tank was developed. The sound propagation in the non-anechoic tank under the impedance boundary condition, with a sound source producing continuous sound, is introduced based on the Helmholtz equation and Green's function. The reciprocity constant is given using the spatial sampling average sound pressure, and the three-transducer reciprocity calibration procedure was established. The number of spatial sampling points, which must be not less than 6000, and the sampling configuration in the non-anechoic tank are determined. In the non-anechoic tank of 15 m × 9 m × 6 m, the sensitivity of the hydrophone in the frequency range of 250 Hz to 10 kHz was calibrated, and the largest discrepancy between the measurement results from the reciprocity calibration method in the non-anechoic water tank and the standard facility was 0.7 dB.
Targeting TRPC channels for control of arthritis-induced bone erosion
Authors: Ray Suravi , McCall Jamie L. , Tian Jin Bin , Jeon Jaepyo , Douglas Aidan , Tyler Kendall , Liu Siyao , Berry Kendyl , Nicewarner Brady , Hall Casey , Groschner Klaus , Bacsa Bernadett , Geldenhuys Werner , Zhu Michael X. , Blair Harry C. , Barnett John B. , Soboloff Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Arthritis leads to bone erosion due to an imbalance between osteoclast and osteoblast function. Our prior investigations revealed that the Ca
2+
-selective ion channel, Orai1, is critical for osteoclast maturation. Here, we show that the small-molecule ELP-004 preferentially inhibits transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels. While ELP-004 minimally affected physiological RANKL-induced osteoclast maturation in murine bone marrow– and spleen-derived myeloid cells (BMSMCs) and human PBMC-derived cells, it potently interfered with osteoclast maturation driven by TNFα or LTB4. The contribution of TRPC channels to osteoclastogenesis was examined using BMSMCs derived from TRPC4
−/−
or TRPC(1–7)
−/−
mice, again revealing preferential interference with osteoclastogenesis driven by proinflammatory cytokines. ELP-004 also reduced bone erosion in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis. These investigations reveal TRPC channels as critical mediators of inflammatory bone erosion and provide insight into the major target of ELP-004, a drug currently in preclinical testing as a therapeutic for inflammatory arthritis.
SMARCA4 regulates the NK-mediated killing of senescent cells
Authors: Reen Virinder , D’Ambrosio Mariantonietta , Søgaard Pia Pernille , Tyson Katie , Leeke Bryony J. , Clément Isabelle , Dye Isabel C. A. , Pombo Joaquim , Kuba Adam , Lan Yemin , Burr Joanna , Bomann Ida C. , Kalyva Maria , Birch Jodie , Khadayate Sanjay , Young George , Provencher Diane , Mes-Masson Anne-Marie , Vernia Santiago , McGranahan Nicholas , Brady Hugh J. M. , Rodier Francis , Nativio Raffaella , Percharde Michelle , McNeish Iain A. , Gil Jesús
Published: January 2025

Induction of senescence by chemotherapeutic agents arrests cancer cells and activates immune surveillance responses to contribute to therapy outcomes. In this investigation, we searched for ways to enhance the NK-mediated elimination of senescent cells. We used a staggered screen approach, first identifying siRNAs potentiating the secretion of immunomodulatory cytokines to later test for their ability to enhance NK-mediated killing of senescent cells. We identified that genetic or pharmacological inhibition of SMARCA4 enhanced senescent cell elimination by NK cells. SMARCA4 expression is elevated during senescence and its inhibition derepresses repetitive elements, inducing the SASP via activation of cGAS/STING and MAVS/MDA5 pathways. Moreover, a PROTAC targeting SMARCA4 synergized with cisplatin to increase the infiltration of CD8 T cells and mature, activated NK cells in an immunocompetent model of ovarian cancer. Our results indicate that SMARCA4 inhibitors enhance NK-mediated surveillance of senescent cells and may represent senotherapeutic interventions for ovarian cancer.
Dimensional engineering of interlayer for efficient large-area perovskite solar cells with high stability under ISOS-L-3 aging test
Authors: Yun Yikai , Chang Qing , Yan Jinjian , Tian Yuanyuan , Jiang Sijie , Wei Wenjie , Li Shaoqun , Guo Yuzheng , Yin Jun , Li Jing , Chen Mengyu , Huang Kai , Li Cheng , Zhang Rong
Published: January 2025

The utilization of low-dimensional perovskites (LDPs) as interlayers on three-dimensional (3D) perovskites has been regarded as an efficient strategy to enhance the performance of perovskite solar cells. Yet, the formation mechanism of LDPs and their impacts on the device performance remain elusive. Herein, we use dimensional engineering to facilitate the controllable growth of 1D and 2D structures on 3D perovskites. The differences of isomeric ligands in electrostatic potential distribution and steric effects for intermolecular forces contribute to different LDPs. The 1D structure facilitates charge transfer with favored channel orientation and energy level alignment. This approach enables perovskite solar modules (PSMs) using 2,2′,7,7′-tetrakis[
N
,
N
-di(4-methoxyphenyl)amino]-9,9′-spirobifluorene to achieve an efficiency of 20.20% over 10 by 10 square centimeters (cm
2
) and 22.05% over 6 by 6 cm
2
. In particular, a PSM (6 by 6 cm
2
) using poly[bis(4-phenyl)(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)amine] maintains an initial efficiency of ~95% after 1000 hours under the rigorous ISOS-L-3 accelerated aging tests, marking a record for the highest stability of n-i-p structure modules.
Insights on the evolution and adaptation toward high-altitude and cold environments in the snow leopard lineage
Authors: Jiangzuo Qigao , Madurell-Malapeira Joan , Li Xinhai , Estraviz-López Darío , Mateus Octávio , Testu Agnès , Li Shijie , Wang Shiqi , Deng Tao
Published: January 2025

How snow leopard gradually adapted to the extreme environments in Tibet remains unexplored due to the scanty fossil record in Tibet. Here, we recognize five valid outside-Tibet records of the snow leopard lineage. Our results suggest that the snow leopard dispersed out of the Tibetan Plateau multiple times during the Quaternary. The osteological anatomy of the modern snow leopard shows adaptation to the steep slope and, to a lesser extent, cold/high-altitude environment. Fossils and phylogeny suggest that the snow leopard experienced a gradual strengthening of such adaptation, especially since the Middle Pleistocene (~0.8 million years). Species distribution modeling suggests that the locations of the fossil sites are not within most suitable area, and we argue that local landscape features are more influential factors than temperature and altitude alone. Our study underscores the importance of integrating morphology, fossil records, and species distribution modeling, to comprehensively understand the evolution, ecology, and inform conservation strategies for endangered species.
Engineered extracellular vesicles with DR5 agonistic scFvs simultaneously target tumor and immunosuppressive stromal cells
Authors: Guo Yeye , Wang Huaishan , Liu Shujing , Zhang Xiaogang , Zhu Xingyue , Huang Lili , Zhong Wenqun , Guan Lei , Chen Yeqing , Xiao Min , Ou Lingling , Yang Jingbo , Chen Xiang , Huang Alexander C. , Mitchell Tara , Amaravadi Ravi , Karakousis Giorgos , Miura John , Schuchter Lynn , Flowers Ahron , Zheng Qiuxian , Mou Haiwei , Gimotty Phyllis , Herlyn Meenhard , Guo Wei , Xu Xiaowei
Published: January 2025

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are nanosized vesicles. Death receptor 5 (DR5) mediates extrinsic apoptosis. We engineer DR5 agonistic single-chain variable fragment (scFv) expression on the surface of sEVs derived from natural killer cells. PDGFR transmembrane domain delivers DR5-scFvs to the surface of sEVs. DR5-scFv sEVs rapidly induce apoptosis of different types of DR5
+
cancer cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). DR5-scFv sEVs migrate specifically to DR5
+
tumors in vitro and in vivo. Systemic delivery of DR5-scFv sEVs significantly inhibits the growth of DR5
+
melanoma, liver cancer, and breast cancer and prolongs mouse life span without significant toxicity. DR5-scFv sEVs are significantly more efficacious than DR5 antibodies in vivo. In organotypic patient-derived melanoma slice cultures, DR5-scFv sEVs effectively inhibit melanoma cells and MDSCs and activate CD8
+
T cells. Our studies demonstrate that DR5-scFv sEVs can inhibit tumor growth by targeting tumor cells and immunosuppressive stromal cells in the TME.
Soft nanoforest of metal single atoms for free diffusion catalysis
Authors: Sun Yan , Zang Yipeng , He Bowen , Lin Geyu , Liu Zhengwu , Yang Lei , Chen Liwei , Li Lina , Liu Xi , Shen Chengshuo , Qiu Huibin
Published: January 2025

Metal single atoms are of increasing importance in catalytic reactions. However, the mass diffusion is yet substantially limited by the confined surface of the support in comparison to homogeneous catalysis. Here, we demonstrate that cylindrical micellar brushes with highly solvated poly(2-vinylpyridine) coronas can immobilize 33 types of metal single atoms with 8.3 to 40.9 weight % contents on conventional electrodes under ambient conditions. This is favored by the forest-like hierarchically open soft structure of the micellar brushes and the dynamic coordination between the metals and the pyridine groups. It was found that the nanoforests of individual noble metal single atoms can be well solvated in an aqueous electrolyte to comprehensively expose the atomic active sites and the nanoforest of Pt single atoms on nickel foam reveals high electrochemical performance for hydrogen evolution. The micellar brush support also enables the simultaneous anchoring of multiple single atoms on the cathode of an anion-exchange membrane electrolyzer for long-term stable water electrolysis.
Amphiphilic hemicyanine molecular probes crossing the blood-brain barrier for intracranial optical imaging of glioblastoma
Authors: Qin Wei , Li Honghui , Chen Jiali , Qiu Yang , Ma Limin , Nie Liming
Published: January 2025

Intracranial optical imaging of glioblastoma (GBM) is challenging due to the scarcity of effective probes with blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and sufficient imaging depth. Herein, we describe a rational strategy for designing optical probes crossing the BBB based on an electron donor-π-acceptor system to adjust the lipid/water partition coefficient and molecular weight of probes. The amphiphilic hemicyanine dye (namely, IVTPO), which exhibits remarkable optical properties and effective BBB permeability, is chosen as an efficient fluorescence/photoacoustic probe for in vivo real-time imaging of orthotopic GBM with high resolution through the intact skull. Abnormal leakage of IVTPO adjacent to the developing tumor is unambiguously observed at an early stage of tumor development prior to impairment of BBB integrity, as assessed by commercial Evans blue (EB). Compared with EB, IVTPO demonstrates enhanced optical imaging capability and improved tumor-targeting efficacy. These results offer encouraging insights into medical diagnosis of intracranial GBM.
Molybdate uptake interplay with ROS tolerance modulates bacterial pathogenesis
Authors: Jiao Min , He Wenbo , Ouyang Zhenlin , Yu Qinyue , Zhang Jiaxin , Qin Qian , Wang Ruochen , Guo Xiaolong , Liu Ruihan , He Xiaoyu , Hwang Peter M. , Zheng Fang , Wen Yurong
Published: January 2025

The rare metal element molybdenum functions as a cofactor in molybdoenzymes that are essential to life in almost all living things. Molybdate can be captured by the periplasmic substrate-binding protein ModA of ModABC transport system in bacteria. We demonstrate that ModA plays crucial roles in growth, multiple metabolic pathways, and ROS tolerance in
Acinetobacter baumannii
. Crystal structures of molybdate-coordinated
A. baumannii
ModA show a noncanonical disulfide bond with a conformational change between reduced and oxidized states. Disulfide bond formation reduced binding affinity to molybdate by two orders of magnitude and contributes to its substrate preference. ModA-mediated molybdate binding was important for
A. baumannii
infection in a murine pneumonia model. Together, our study sheds light on the structural and functional diversity of molybdate uptake and highlights a potential target for antibacterial development.
A population of c-kit
+
IL-17A
+
ILC2s in sputum from individuals with severe asthma supports ILC2 to ILC3 trans-differentiation
Authors: Ju Xiaotian , Fard Nahal Emami , Bhalla Anurag , Dvorkin-Gheva Anna , Xiao Maria , Radford Katherine , Zhang Kayla , Ditta Reina , Oliveria John Paul , Paré Guillaume , Mukherjee Manali , Nair Parameswaran , Sehmi Roma
Published: January 2025

In prednisone-dependent severe asthma, uncontrolled sputum eosinophilia is associated with increased numbers of group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s). These cells represent a relatively steroid-insensitive source of interleukin-5 (IL-5) and IL-13 and are considered critical drivers of asthma pathology. The abundance of ILC subgroups in severe asthma with neutrophilic or mixed granulocytic (both eosinophilic and neutrophilic) airway inflammation, prone to recurrent infective exacerbations, remains unclear. Here, we found by flow cytometry that sputum ILC3s are increased in severe asthma with intense airway neutrophilia, whereas equivalently raised sputum ILC2s and ILC3s were found in severe asthma with mixed granulocytic inflammation. Unbiased clustering analyses identified an “intermediate-ILC2” population displaying markers of both ILC2s (prostaglandin D
2
receptor 2; CRTH2, IL-5, and IL-13) and ILC3s (c-kit and IL-17A) that were most abundant in severe asthma with mixed granulocytic airway inflammation. Intermediate ILC2s correlated with airway neutrophilia and were associated with increased amounts of IL-1β and IL-18 in sputum supernatants. Coculture of sort-purified canonical ILC2s with IL-1β and IL-18 in vitro up-regulated c-kit and IL-17A as well as gene expression profiles related to both type 2 and type 17 inflammatory pathways. Together, we have identified an intermediate-ILC2 phenotype in the airways of individuals with severe mixed granulocytic asthma, representing a candidate therapeutic target for controlling neutrophilic airway inflammation.
mpactR: an R adaptation of the metabolomics peak analysis computational tool (MPACT) for use in reproducible data analysis pipelines
Authors: Mason Allison R. , Johnson, Jr Gregory , Krampen Joseph , Nguyen Jennifer N. T. , Balunas Marcy J. , Schloss Patrick D.
Published: January 2025

mpactR automates pre-processing of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) data from microbiological samples to correct mispicked peaks, resolve inter-sample variation in abundance across technical replicates, account for in-source ion fragmentation, and remove background noise to yield high-quality mass spectrometry features. The package is available through CRAN and GitHub.
Complete chloroplast genome of the marine eelgrass
Zostera pacifica
(Zosteraceae, Plantae) from Monterey, California
Authors: Abdulrahman Sosan , Aguirre Adilene , Arriaga Eliana , Avina Ashley C. , Badajos Angeles , Badillo Yureni A. , Bañuelos Alexis M. , Pulido Javier , Bucio Valdovinos Bet-sua , Champaco Taliyah , Chavez Rodrigo , Chavez-Felix Gregorio , Cruz Melaina , Distancia Melissa , Dzubay Kingsley , Espinoza Andres , Estrada Julie , Fernandez Danneli , Gutierrez-Villanueva Alejandra , Guzman Marc , Hernandez-Tejeda Jimena , Hernandez Victor , Hughey Jeffery R. , Jalomo Sebastian , Khanaka Hanna , Kuepfer Juliah , Laurel Alyssa M. , Lewis Julia , Lopez Hanah E. , Martinez Ana , Martinez Michell J. , Medina Ramirez Jorge A. , Ramirez Cesar M. , Mendez Fatima , Mendoza-Torralba Ashley , Naidu Kajal , Nolasco Abraham , Nuñez Lupita , Paredes Vivian , Anaya Jesse P. , Rajesh Sreenivas , Ramirez Kevin , Salazar Andrea , Sevilla Jeriel S. , Tijero Jennifer G. , Tinoco Viorato Aaron , Valdez Heaven ,   on behalf of Hartnell College Genomics Group
Published: January 2025

We present the complete chloroplast genome of the eelgrass
Zostera pacifica
from Monterey, California. The genome is circular and 144,675  bp in length. It consists of 82 protein-coding, 31 transfer RNA, and 8 ribosomal RNA genes and is 99.44%–99.42% similar in nucleotide pairwise identity to the closely related species
Zostera marina
.
Detrital zircon geochronology of a fossiliferous Miocene paleochannel
Authors: Hodges Montana , Newby Tahlor , Swarner Holli , Busby Cathy , Shapiro Russell , Francek Greg , Hodges Christopher
Published: January 2025

A plethora of fauna and flora of uncertain age was recently discovered in fluvial sedimentary rocks of the Mokelumne River drainage of the western Sierra Nevada foothills (California, USA). These fossils are preserved in the Mokelumne paleochannel and show great biodiversity containing mastodon, gomphothere, camel, rhino, horse, dog, rodent, mustelid, tapir, peccary, tortoise, turtle, fish, bird, and abundant tree fossils. Prior to this study, biochronology loosely constrained the age of the fossils to 15–5 Ma and the stratigraphy to either the Valley Springs Formation or Mehrten Formation. This project sampled a fossiliferous stratigraphic section for detrital zircons and used U­Pb laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry isotopic dating to establish the most probable age of the fossils at 8.2 ± 0.1 Ma (late Miocene). This age is consistent with U­Pb detrital zircon ages on samples taken from below and above the fossils, which bracket the depositional age of the fossils to younger than 8.23 ± 0.08 Ma and older than 7.24 ± 0.07 Ma, respectively. The detrital zircons were likely sourced from contemporaneous Ancestral Cascades arc volcanism that occurred up­paleochannel, near the present-day Sierra Nevada range crest.
Damp and mouldy home: impact on lung health in childhood
Authors: Moorcroft Charles , Whitehouse Abigail , Grigg Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Within every paediatric respiratory and general paediatric clinic there will be a number of children and families who are exposed to sub-standard environments within their homes. This may be impacting on their health and in particular, respiratory health. As clinicians it is important that we are aware of the risks to health, how to address it and act as advocates for patients. This review walks through from the health impacts to the way we can advocate and support patients and families.
Multiplex lateral flow test sensitivity and specificity in detecting influenza A, B and SARS-CoV-2 in adult patients in a UK emergency department
Authors: Batra Rahul , Blandford Edward , Kulasegaran-Shylini Raghavendran , Futschik Matthias E , Bown Abbie , Catton Matthew , Conti-Frith Hermione , Alexandridou Alexandra , Gill Rebecca , Milroy Clara , Harper Sean , Gettings Holly , Noronha Maryann , Harrison Hooi-Ling , Douthwaite Sam , Nebbia Gaia , Klapper Paul E , Tunkel Sarah , Vipond Richard , Hopkins Susan , Fowler Tom
Published: January 2025

Background

Rapid identification of individuals with acute respiratory infections is crucial for preventing nosocomial infections. For rapid diagnosis, especially in EDs, lateral flow devices (LFDs) are a convenient, inexpensive option with a rapid turnaround. Several ‘multiplex’ LFDs (M-LFDs) now exist, testing for multiple pathogens from a single swab sample. We evaluated the real-world performance of M-LFD versus PCR testing in detecting influenza A, B and SARS-CoV-2) in the ED setting.

Methods

After preliminary evaluation of an M-LFD (SureScreen) with laboratory-grown virus and PCR-negative clinical samples, it was evaluated in a real-world setting at the ED of St Thomas’ Hospital (London, UK) from 1 December 2022 to 21 April 2023. Eligible participants were ≥18 years of age, admitted with respiratory symptoms and received concurrent M-LFD and PCR tests. Main endpoints were sensitivity to detect influenza A/B (primary) and SARS-CoV-2 (secondary) versus PCR. The probability of a true positive in relation to viral concentration (expressed as PCR cycle threshold (Ct)) was analysed using logistic regression.

Results

In total, 808 symptomatic participants were included (49.8% female; mean age 46.9 years). Test sensitivity (95% CI) was 67.0% (56.9% to 76.1%) for influenza A (n=100), 94.1% (71.3% to 99.9%) for influenza B (n=17) and 48.2% (39.7% to 56.8%) for SARS-CoV-2 (n=141). Sensitivity for SARS-CoV-2 was significantly lower than that for influenza A and B (p=0.0057 and p=0.00088, respectively). The probability of a true positive was 98% for Ct<25 for influenza A and SARS-CoV-2 (influenza B non-evaluable). No co-infections were identified by PCR or M-LFD.

Conclusion

The real-world performance of SureScreen M-LFD was consistent with laboratory evaluation and achieved a high sensitivity for individuals with high viral concentration, most likely to be infectious. Given the representative UK population sample, results could be generalised for use in other settings.
Malnutrition risk and overall survival at solid tumour diagnosis
Authors: McFarlane Tori L. , Symanowski James T , Walsh Declan , Aung Ye Myint , Aktas Aynur , Szafranski Michele L , Salo Jonathan C , Meadors Patrick L , Kadakia Kunal C.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Malnutrition severely impacts tolerance to anticancer therapies, but any relationship with overall survival (OS) at the time of solid tumour diagnosis in outpatients in the USA remains unclear.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated 3562 patients who completed the Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST) at diagnosis, identifying the relationship between MST risk, a validated tool evaluating anorexia and weight loss, and OS. MST score of ≥2 of 5 was classified as high malnutrition risk (H-MST). Kaplan-Meier techniques and Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyse OS in H-MST versus low malnutrition risk (L-MST).

Results

In the unadjusted models, MST risk was individually associated with OS. Multivariable regression confirmed that MST risk remained independently prognostic for OS after controlling for key confounding variables, HR=1.51 (95% CI: 1.33 to 1.72). The H-MST group had shorter OS (50-month survival rates: 69% L-MST vs 60% H-MST).

Conclusion

MST risk at diagnosis is an independent prognostic factor for OS. H-MST risk is associated with shorter survival in a broad cohort of solid tumour oncology outpatients.
AAC Beckett hulless food barley
Authors: Badea A. , Tucker J.R.
Published: January 2025

AAC Beckett is a two-row hulless spring food barley ( Hordeum vulgare var. nudum) cultivar with good adaptability across western Canada. It was developed from the cross Merlin/H303 made in 2014, and it was evaluated in the Western Cooperative Hulless Barley Registration Test (2020–2021) before being registered in 2023. Merlin (HB801) is a two-row, waxy hulless barley cultivar, while the other parent, H303 is a F1 hulless food line. The cross was made with the aim to develop improved high beta-glucan hulless barley for food. AAC Beckett's combination of high yield, disease resistance, and high beta-glucan concentration should make it a useful cultivar for the barley growers and food industry.
Monte Carlo simulation of polymer phantoms in proton therapy for eye tumor treatment
Authors: Aşlar Engin , Ekinci Fatih
Published: January 2025

Traditional methods for treating eye tumors, such as surgery and radiation therapy, can cause damage to surrounding healthy tissues and unwanted side effects. In recent years, proton therapy has emerged as a significant alternative for the treatment of eye tumors. Proton therapy targets cancer cells using proton particles while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissues. Unlike other radiation therapy techniques, proton therapy uses the Bragg peak, which allows protons to concentrate on a specific depth within the tissue. Proton therapy can deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumor area while protecting nearby healthy tissues. Additionally, proton therapy has a more favorable side effect profile than other treatment methods. This study focuses on simulations conducted on eyes and eye phantoms to examine the effects of proton therapy on eye tissues. The simulations analyzed physical effects such as ionization, recoils, and lateral straggle of proton beams using Bragg curves, recoil analyses, and atomic-level interactions. Results indicate that as the energy levels of proton beams increase, the range and energy transfer in eye tissues also increase. These findings emphasize the potential effectiveness of proton therapy for treating eye tumors. Polymer eye phantoms can serve as reliable tools in proton therapy simulations to optimize treatment planning. This study highlights the importance of proton therapy simulations and demonstrates the successful use of various polymer materials. Future studies may also examine the effects of heavy particles in addition to different polymer materials to comprehensively evaluate the impact of proton beams in biomedical applications.
Climatic and tectonic controls on ferroan dolomite formation: insights into Early Miocene anoxia in the Mediterranean Sea (il-Blata, Malta)
Authors: Zammit Ray , Petrash Daniel A. , Bialik Or M.
Published: January 2025

Records from the Miocene il-Blata section in Malta offer insights into the depositional environments of the Central Mediterranean following an Early Miocene restriction of the Mesopotamian Seaway (
c.
20 Ma). Inorganic and organic stable carbon isotope values suggest relatively steady depositional environments, whereas authigenic iron dolomite abundances exhibiting substantial

δ

18
O and

δ

13
C variations at a sequence scale indicate dynamic sedimentation conditions leading to differential diagenesis. Petrographically, the dolomitic levels exhibit matrix-selective dolomitization, occasional silicification and phosphatization, and textural indicators pointing to subsurface microbial influences. These features collectively point to complex shallow burial diagenesis. In addition, the presence of framboidal pyrite and gypsum infilling foraminiferal chambers, along with the absence of large planktonic foraminifera, suggests the development of palaeoenvironmental stress imposed by a density-stratified water column affecting the pore waters. Towards the top of the studied succession, a shift from organic to siliceous deposits reflects water column perturbations possibly linked to changes in oceanic circulation associated with a temporary re-opening of the Mesopotamian Seaway. This study not only underscores the hydrochemical controls exerted by North African terrigenous fluxes over the Mediterranean, but also highlights the intricate interplay between shifting depositional environments and shallow burial diagenetic processes in shaping the geochemical and textural fabrics of authigenic mineral assemblages.
Integrated conodont biostratigraphy and stable isotope chemostratigraphy from the Tremadocian (Lower Ordovician) of the Yangtze Platform, South China
Authors: Yan Guanzhou , Liu Jianbo , Lehnert Oliver , Luan Xiaocong , Calner Mikael , Wu Rongchang
Published: January 2025

Tremadocian (Lower Ordovician) carbonate rocks were collected from the Xiangshuidong section in the Hubei Province, South China, and analysed for conodont biostratigraphy. A total of 24 species belonging to 16 genera were recovered from the Nantsinkuan and Fenhsiang formations. Three conodont zones are recognized based on this material: the
Rossodus manitouensis
Zone,
Colaptoconus quadraplicatus
–
Paltodus pristinus
Assemblage Zone and the
Paltodus deltifer
Zone, in ascending order. A biostratigraphic gap, corresponding to the
Cordylodus lindstromi
and
Cordylodus angulatus
zones, implies a major hiatus spanning the Cambrian–Ordovician boundary interval on the Yangtze Platform. A remarkable conodont faunal turnover is evident within the uppermost
Rossodus manitouensis
Zone and
Colaptoconus quadraplicatus
–
Paltodus pristinus
Assemblage Zone, corresponding to the early Tremadocian Base Stairsian Mass Extinction event (BSME). This turnover took place at a stratigraphic interval corresponding to the rising limb of the Top Skullrockian Isotopic Carbon Excursion (TSICE). According to the herein revised conodont biozonation of the Xiangshuidong section, a small but distinct positive shift in

δ

238
U values begins in the lower part of the
Colaptoconus quadraplicatus
–
Paltodus pristinus
Assemblage Zone and contemporaneously with the TSICE. This shift suggests sustained improved oxygenation of the sea-floor environment in the early Tremadocian, post-BSME. There are no apparent

δ

238
U changes before the BSME.
Brain Implants Give People Back What They Lost
Authors: Savage Neil
Published: January 2025

Brain-computer interfaces are helping to restore movement, vision, and speech.
On-Demand Polymer Materials for Sustainability and Space
Authors: Ziegler Micah S. , Brettmann Blair
Published: January 2025

Production of polymer material goods on-demand is a recurring science fiction element, but advances in chemistry and engineering have pushed it closer to reality. Experienced at a hobby scale by 3D printing enthusiasts and at an industrial level through rapid prototyping and modular manufacturing, the approach is on its way to further flexibility and high-performance material production. We review the advances in on-demand materials design as well as manufacturing, using examples in space exploration and sustainability, because these are cases where the value proposition for rapid changes in materials is strong. Despite the promising technological base for on-demand production, challenges still exist for commercial viability. We thus also review business strategy and private and public policy considerations for transitioning polymer materials markets to on-demand production. Combined analysis of the chemistry, manufacturing, and business/policy advances provides a more comprehensive picture of the status and remaining challenges.
Adaptive Cost-Benefit Control Fueled by Striatal Dopamine
Authors: Frank Michael J.
Published: January 2025

The twenty-first century has brought forth a deluge of theories and data shedding light on the neural mechanisms of motivated behavior. Much of this progress has focused on dopaminergic dynamics, including their signaling properties (how do they vary with expectations and outcomes?) and their downstream impacts in target regions (how do they affect learning and behavior?). In parallel, the basal ganglia have been elevated from their original implication in motoric function to a canonical circuit facilitating the initiation, invigoration, and selection of actions across levels of abstraction, from motor to cognitive operations. This review considers how striatal D1 and D2 opponency allows animals to perform cost-benefit calculations across multiple scales: locally, whether to select a given action, and globally, whether to engage a particular corticostriatal circuit for guiding behavior. An emerging understanding of such functions reconciles seemingly conflicting data and has implications for neuroscience, psychology, behavioral economics, and artificial intelligence.
Tribological Behavior of Friction-Stir-Processed Nanocomposite Prepared Through Self-Assembled Monolayer Technique
Authors: Chandra Prakash , Butola Ravi
Published: January 2025

An attempt was made to use friction stir processing, a manufacturing technique usually employed for the fabrication of nanocomposites. For the substrate, AA7075 was used and for dispersed phase, B4C nanoparticles of size (<30 nm) were selected. Nanocomposite samples were fabricated using three different tool rotation speeds of 1000, 1200, and 1400 rpm, by keeping other process parameters as constant, and their influence on the nanocomposite was judged by the study of tribological behavior and microhardness. This research work aims at the self-assembled monolayer formation of B4C nanoparticles homogeneous layer into a substrate material and hence minimizing the quantity of nanoparticles required in the preparation of nanocomposites via FSP. The results in terms of increased microhardness compared to the substrate material are reflected by the sample processed at the tool rotation of 1200 rpm. The average microhardness was found out to be 195 Hv compared to the substrate material. There is a maximum increment attained in wear resistance upto 46.7% in the sample processed at 1200 rpm. Worn out surface morphology were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction was also undertaken to analyze the presence of reinforcement particle in the fabricated nanocomposites.
Genomic and cellular responses to aspirin in colonic organoids from African- and European-Americans
Authors: Usman Hina , Witonsky David , Bielski Margaret C. , Lawrence Kristi M. , Laxman Bharathi , Kupfer Sonia S.
Published: January 2025

Aspirin treatment in colonic organoids from diverse individuals revealed significant transcriptome-wide responses, especially for genes in lipid and apoptosis signaling pathways. In normal organoids, apoptosis was induced by aspirin, providing one possible mechanism of colorectal cancer chemoprevention. Our results are a first step toward implementation of personalized medicine for aspirin in colorectal cancer prevention.
On the Performance of Traditional Agroecological Practices in Mitigating the Effects of Climate Variability on Ecosystems: A Case Study in Northern Burkina Faso
Authors: Zouré Cheick Oumar , Sy Tocoma , Coulibaly Aboubacar , Rouamba Inès Fabienne , Kindo Balguissa , Bazyomo Donatien , Ouédraogo Reine Marie , Drabo Paulin Honoré , Ouédraogo Ousséni
Published: January 2025

Climate projections for West Africa predict a temperature increase of 1.9°C to 4.2°C by 2080, leading to extreme temperature fluctuations and prolonged dry spells that could devastate rainfed agriculture. This study assesses the hydraulic and agronomic performance of traditional agroecological practices, specifically zaï and half‐moons, in northern Burkina Faso. Over two consecutive years (2021 and 2022), a monitoring of experimental designs implemented at Kiré and Guésséré villages is carried out. Each design comprised a zaï group and a half‐moon group, with three replicates arranged in randomized blocks. The zaï blocks featured plots of varying diameters (20, 30, and 40 cm) alongside a control plot utilizing direct sowing. Similarly, the half‐moon blocks included half‐moon plots with diameters of 1, 2, and 3 m, alongside a control plot. Key parameters measured included rainfall, soil saturated hydraulic conductivity, crop growth, and yields across all plots utilizing traditional “Songzaka” millet as the crop species. Results showed that the zaï plots with diameters of 30–40 cm and the 1‐m half‐moon plots effectively mitigated the impact of dry spells by retaining moisture for 2‐3 weeks. Crop yields increased by a factor of 4 to 16 under these agroecological techniques, relatively compared to direct seeding after just two years of implementation. This enhanced performance is attributed to the modifications in soil surface hydraulic properties and improvements in soil fertility. Socioeconomic analyses identified the 1‐m half‐moon as the most profitable and resilient practice, highlighting its potential for sustainable agricultural development in the Sahel under climate change.
Effect of Propolis on PPP2R1A and Apoptosis in Cancer Cells
Authors: Durmaz Burak , Oktay Çelebi Latife Merve , Çekin Ayşe , Ahadova Ayshan , Günel Nur Selvi , Yıldırım Hatice Kalkan , Özgönül Ali Mert , Yıldırım Sözmen Eser
Published: January 2025

Recently, it has been shown that protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) dysfunction was common in many cancer types and was mediated by various inactivation mechanisms. Although many research studies observed antitumor effect of propolis extracts in various types of cancer, the mechanism of effect are still obscure. In this study, we investigated the effect of propolis on PPP2R1A expression and its relationship with apoptosis in the SW‐620 (colorectal cancer), DU‐145 and PC‐3 (prostate cancer), and MCF‐7 (breast cancer) cell lines, with WI‐38 (healthy fibroblast) cells serving as the control. Moreover, we aimed to investigate the impact of propolis on apoptosis by analyzing apoptosis markers such as tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL), APAF‐1, and caspases‐3, ‐8, and ‐9. Propolis samples were extracted, and their phenolic compounds were quantified using LC‐MS/MS. The RealTime Cell Analysis System‐xCELLigence (RTCA‐SP) device and software were employed to assess cell viability and cytotoxicity of the propolis samples. The IC50 values for propolis were determined (298 μg/mL for SW‐620, 185.6 μg/mL for DU‐145, 250.7 μg/mL for PC − 3, 292.9 μg/mL for MCF‐7, and 311.2 μg/mL for WI‐38). Subsequently, the effects of propolis on PPP2R1A expression and apoptosis markers (TRAIL, Apaf‐1, and caspases‐3, ‐8, and ‐9) were analyzed. When we compared the healthy cell lines to cancer cell lines, a statistically significant increase in caspase‐3 (3.62‐fold) and in TRAIL (4.38‐fold) was observed in the SW‐620 cell line after the application of propolis. In addition, in the PC‐3 cell line, a 1.4‐fold increase in caspase‐8 was observed compared with the healthy cell line, which is also statistically significant. Our findings indicated that propolis increased the PPP2R1A levels and apoptosis markers in cancer cell lines. It has been suggested that high PPP2R1A levels induced by propolis treatment might activate the apoptosis pathway. In this study, the inducible effect of propolis on PPP2R1A levels, identified as a new target for cancer treatment, was demonstrated for the first time. The findings suggest that propolis holds promise as a potential cancer therapy by increasing PPP2R1A levels, a key molecule in cancer treatment.
The Social Prescribing Link Worker—Clarifying the Role to Harness Potential: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mulholland Jill , Galway Karen , O’Hare Liam , Bertotti Marcello , Gildea Aideen
Published: January 2025

Recent work outlines definitions of social prescribing, but the role of a social prescribing link worker (SPLW) remains ill defined. Core components of the role must be clarified to enable the study of its impact in connecting people to community‐based support and subsequent outcomes. This review compiles and summarises published information on the SPLW role. A scoping review was completed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis for Scoping Review. Suitable online databases were searched using identified terms, a review of the reference lists of identified papers was completed and relevant grey literature was identified through Google Scholar. Relevant reports from UK‐based social prescribing networks and government organisations were gathered. Eligibility of each paper was determined based on the specified criteria. Inclusion criteria were identified using the PCC (Population; Concept; Context) framework. Of the 251 search results originally identified, 15 peer‐reviewed papers met the criteria for inclusion. Five additional published reports from government and community organisations and networks were identified. Data were extracted and collated in tabular form. Thematic data analysis highlighted four common themes clarifying the role of the SPLW and identifying improvements required to advance social prescribing referral processes. (1) SPLW works in collaboration with the participant, to identify personal needs and goals, and monitors progress over time. (2) SPLW connects service users to community/statutory support. (3) SPLW views health in a holistic manner. (4) The importance of training for SPLWs, and those referring into the system, to improve the referral process. Disparity in language and roles is evident, making it difficult to describe and compare the role across social prescribing services. The importance of training is outlined, and training recommendations are made. Additional effort is needed to clarify the role, impact and training requirements within social prescribing, to strengthen the evidence base, and allow applicability and transferability across services.
Effect of Ripasudil on the Change Rates of the Circumpapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness in Patients With Primary Open‐Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Sakurai Katsumasa , Suda Kenji , Akagi Tadamichi , Ikeda Hanako Ohashi , Kameda Takanori , Miyake Masahiro , Hasegawa Tomoko , Tsujikawa Akitaka
Published: January 2025

Purpose: The effect of the Rho‐kinase inhibitor ripasudil on the retinal optic nerve fiber layer (RNFL) remains unclear. We aimed to determine this effect in patients with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements and linear mixed analysis.

Methods: This study prospectively included outpatients from a single center with POAG without a history of vitreoretinal or glaucoma surgery from December 2014 to June 2020, in whom the circumpapillary RNFL thickness (cpRNFLT) was measured more than three times before and after ripasudil initiation, without additional medication or surgery during the period. Measurements were performed using OCT in the follow‐up mode. The cpRNFLT change rates were compared before and after treatment using linear mixed models with adjustments for intraocular pressure (IOP) changes.

Results: Thirty eyes of 20 patients (12 males and eight females) were included. Upon ripasudil prescription, the average cpRNFLT was 60.2 ± 2.1 μm. The average IOP was 15.1 ± 0.5 and 13.5 ± 0.5 mmHg, respectively, before and after treatment initiation, with a difference of −1.6 ± 0.3 mmHg. Analysis of 343 cpRNFLT measurements using linear mixed models revealed that the cpRNFLT change rate was −0.91 ± 0.15 and −0.40 ± 0.14 μm/year, respectively, before and after treatment onset, with an increase of 0.51 ± 0.21 μm/year. After adjusting for IOP changes, the improvement in cpRNFLT change rate was 0.33 ± 0.23 μm/year, albeit not statistically significant.

Conclusion: The cpRNFLT change rate significantly increased after ripasudil administration, whereas the contribution of the IOP decline was not significant.
Pharmacological Postoperative Pain Management for Paediatric Dental Extractions Under General Anaesthesia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ting Emily Xin Yi , Sethi Sneha , Jensen Emilija , Poirier Brianna
Published: January 2025

General anaesthesia (GA) as a pharmacological behaviour management strategy may be indicated for dental extractions in children unable to cooperate in the dental chair. Pain is the most common postoperative complication in children following dental GA. There is conflicting evidence available on the efficacy of local anaesthetic (LA) agents for postoperative pain management following dental extraction. Therefore, this review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different pharmacological analgesic techniques on postoperative pain following dental extractions under GA in children. A search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus and CINAHL was conducted on 17/10/2023 to identify studies eligible for inclusion in this review. Two independent reviewers performed search screening, data extraction and critical appraisal. Results were narratively described due to heterogeneity of pain assessment tools and management strategies. The search yielded 8742 results, of which 15 studies were included. Methods of pain assessment varied greatly across included studies, with 14 different pain scales used across the 15 studies. Included studies suggest preoperative oral paracetamol and oral ibuprofen as well as postoperative topical bupivacaine lowered pain scores. This review underscores the challenges in reliably assessing pain in children and highlights the necessity for age‐specific validated pain assessment tools.
NATIONAL REGISTRY SYSTEM FOR HOME MECHANICAL VENTILATION SUPPORT IN CHILDREN: FIRST DATA FROM TURKIYE
Authors: Metin Çakar Neval , Selçuk Balcı Merve , Kılıç Başkan Azer , Arslan Hüseyin , Ünal Füsun , Koç Yeliz , Cavıldak Karaaslan Gözde , Sinan Sümeyye , Ercan Fatih , Ünal Gökçen , Çağlar Hanife Tuğçe , Başer Zeynep Efşan , Mamaç Harun , Oksay Sinem Can , Onay Zeynep Reyhan , Atan Raziye , Sunman Birce , Demir Havva İpek , Halis Ece , Girgin Dindar Bahar , Bayav Secahattin , Savaş Suat , Korkmaz Merve , Köstereli Ebru , Uzuner Selçuk , Yazan Hakan , Özdemir Ali , Başaran Abdurrahman E. , Kartal Ozturk Gökçen , Ersoy Ali , Özsezen Beste , Başaran Ayşen , Keskin Özlem , Ramaslı Gürsoy Tuğba , Hızal Mina , Özcan Gizem , Ergenekon Pinar , Kılınc Sakallı Ayşe A. , Karakoc Fazilet , Karadağ Bülent , Çokuğraş Haluk , Pekcan Sevgi , Şişmanlar Eyüboğlu Tuğba , Tana Aslan Ayse , Girit Saniye , Gülen Figen , Çobanoğlu Nazan , Şen Velat , Canıtez Yakup , Uyan Zeynep Seda , Çakır Erkan , Ay Pınar , Baş İkizoğlu Nilay , Hangül Melih , Cinel Güzin , Emiralioğlu Nagehan , Erdem Eralp Ela , Öktem Sedat , Gökdemir Yasemin
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Advances in neonatal and pediatric intensive care have improved patient survival rates, emphasizing the need for respiratory support in cases of chronic respiratory failure, resulting in the establishment of the Turkish National Pediatric Patients Receiving Home Mechanical Ventilation (HMV) Support Registration System in 2023. This study aims to present the initial findings of the registry. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, epidemiological and demographic data was obtained from the registry and compared between invasive ventilation (IV) and non-invasive ventilation (NIV) groups. Results: The study included 952 patients registered from 23 centers with a median (IQR) age of 6.0 (3.0-12.0) years. IV support was observed in 51.1% of patients (n= 486). There was no difference in sex between IV and NIV groups, but a significant difference in age, nutrition, mobility status and education were observed between the subgroups. The largest patient group had neuromuscular disease, with spinal muscular atrophy being the most common primary diagnosis (15.7%). Most of the caregivers (78.7% in the NIV group and 93.8% in the IV group) received formal training before the initiation of HMV. Conclusion: Turkey's first registry for pediatric HMV patients is introduced. This system helps understand and solve mobility and education issues for these patients in our country. Collaboration with relevant ministries is crucial. In addition, although most of the caregivers have received training before discharge, efforts are still needed to ensure that this rate is 100%. The long-term results will be presented in the future.