Diesel exhaust and ozone adversely affect pollinators and parasitoids within flying insect communities

The effects of air pollution on human and animal health, and on the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems, are wide-ranging. This potentially includes the disruption of valuable services provided by flying insects (e.g. pollination and biological control). However, quantifying the extent of this disruption requires a clearer understanding of insect community responses at field-scale. By elevating diesel exhaust and ozone (O 3) pollutants, individually and in combination, over two summers, we investigated the field-scale effects of air pollution on the abundance and diversity of flying insects from pan traps. We quantified which groups of insects were more at risk of air pollution-mediated decline and whether responses to air pollution were influenced by the presence of flowering plants. In addition, a common pest of Brassicaceae, the large cabbage white butterfly (Pieris brassicae L.) was used to investigate the effects on oviposition success of the two interacting air pollutants. Air pollution had the most detrimental effects on pollinators and parasitoids, compared with other insect groups, lowering their abundance by up to 48 % and 32 %, respectively. The adverse effects of O 3 and diesel exhaust on pollinators occurred only when flowers were available, indicating the relative importance of floral odors compared with visual cues. Air pollutants resulted in either increased insect herbivore abundance or had no effect, potentially increasing the threat air pollution poses to food security. However, both pollutants resulted in decreased oviposition by cabbage white butterflies, which, if demonstrated to be a more ubiquitous phenomenon, may result in reduced larval pest damage. Quantifying the relative changes in composition and abundance among feeding guilds is valuable for predicting the effects of air pollution on insect communities. Of the groups identified, pollinators are likely to be at the greatest risk of air pollution-mediated decline due to their use of floral odour cues for foraging. </p

A Critical Review of the Decarbonisation Potential in the U.K. Cement Industry

As urbanisation and infrastructure development continue to drive rising cement demand, the imperative to significantly reduce emissions from this emissions-intensive sector has become increasingly urgent, especially in the context of global climate goals such as achieving net zero emissions by 2050. This review examines the status, challenges and prospects of low-carbon cement technologies and mitigation strategies through the lens of the U.K. cement industry. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining structured literature searches across academic databases with analyses of industry reports, market data and technological roadmaps to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Following an outline of cement production, resource flows and the sector’s landscape in the U.K., the review delves into an array of decarbonisation pathways. This includes deploying the best available technologies (BATs), fuel switching, carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS), clinker substitution and low-carbon cement formulations. A critical assessment is provided on the technological readiness, costs, resource availability considerations and scalability aspects governing the widespread implementation prospects of these approaches within the U.K. cement industry. Furthermore, this study proposes a roadmap that considers priority avenues and policy needs essential for facilitating the transition towards sustainable cement production aligned with the U.K.’s net zero obligations by 2050. This evaluation contributes significantly to the ongoing decarbonisation discourse by holistically mapping technological solutions and strategic imperatives tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the U.K. cement sector

Structural and functional insights into α-actinin isoforms and their implications in cardiovascular disease

α-actinin (ACTN) is a pivotal member of the actin-binding protein family, crucial for the anchoring and organization of actin filaments within the cytoskeleton. Four isoforms of α-actinin exist: two non-muscle isoforms (ACTN1 and ACTN4) primarily associated with actin stress fibers and focal adhesions, and two muscle-specific isoforms (ACTN2 and ACTN3) localized to the Z-disk of the striated muscle. Although these isoforms share structural similarities, they exhibit distinct functional characteristics that reflect their specialized roles in various tissues. Genetic variants in α-actinin isoforms have been implicated in a range of pathologies, including cardiomyopathies, thrombocytopenia, and non-cardiovascular diseases, such as nephropathy. However, the precise impact of these genetic variants on the α-actinin structure and their contribution to disease pathogenesis remains poorly understood. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the structural and functional attributes of the four α-actinin isoforms, emphasizing their roles in actin crosslinking and sarcomere stabilization. Furthermore, we present detailed structural modeling of select ACTN1 and ACTN2 variants to elucidate mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis, with a particular focus on macrothrombocytopenia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. By advancing our understanding of α-actinin’s role in both normal cellular function and disease states, this review lays the groundwork for future research and the development of targeted therapeutic interventions

The polyphenol metabolite urolithin A suppresses myostatin expression and augments glucose uptake in human skeletal muscle cells

Purpose: Polyphenolic plant extracts have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-catabolic effects in vitro, however their meaningful translation into humans remains elusive. Urolithin A (UA), a gut-derived metabolite of ellagitannins, has shown promise for improving muscle function and metabolic health in rodent models. This study aimed to explore the impact of UA on insulin and anabolic sensitivity in human skeletal muscle cells. Methods: Primary human myogenic cultures were derived from skeletal muscle biopsies of eight healthy adults. After differentiation, myotubes were treated with 0.002, 1 and 50 µM UA or vehicle for 24 h. Cell viability was assessed using a resazurin assay. Basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was measured using tritiated deoxy-D-glucose, whilst amino acid-stimulated protein synthesis was estimated using the surface sensing of translation (SuNSET) technique. Expression of myostatin and glucose transporters was quantified via real-time PCR. Results: UA treatment at ≤ 50 µM did not compromise cell viability. Treatment with 50 µM UA enhanced both basal- and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by 21% (P &lt; 0.05) and 24% (P &lt; 0.01), respectively, compared to vehicle and was accompanied by a 1.8-fold upregulation of GLUT4 expression (P &lt; 0.01). 50 µM UA reduced myostatin (MSTN) expression by 14% (P &lt; 0.01) but did not alter amino acid-stimulated global cell protein synthesis. Conclusion: This study provides evidence of UA’s metabolic benefits in primary human myotubes, notably improving basal- and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and supressing MSTN expression. These findings suggest UA could be an effective nutraceutical for mitigating insulin resistance and warrants further investigation

Genetic variants of accessory proteins and G proteins in human genetic disease

We present a series of three articles on the genetics and pharmacogenetics of G protein- coupled receptors (GPCR). In the first article, we discuss genetic variants of the G protein subunits and accessory proteins that are associated with human phenotypes; in the second article, we build upon this to discuss "G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) gene variants and human genetic disease" and in the third article, we survey "G protein-coupled receptor pharmacogenomics". In the present article, we review the processes of ligand binding, GPCR activation, inactivation, and receptor trafficking to the membrane in the context of human genetic disease resulting from pathogenic variants of accessory proteins and G proteins. Pathogenic variants of the genes encoding G protein α and β subunits are examined in diverse phenotypes. Variants in the genes encoding accessory proteins that modify or organize G protein coupling have been associated with disease; these include the contribution of variants of the regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) to hypertension; the role of variants of activator of G protein signaling type III in phenotypes such as hypoxia; the contribution of variation at the RGS10 gene to short stature and immunological compromise; and the involvement of variants of G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs), such as GRK4, in hypertension. Variation in genes that encode proteins involved in GPCR signaling are outlined in the context of the changes in structure and function that may be associated with human phenotypes. </p

Why and how do workplaces invest in mental health and wellbeing?:A systematic review and process tracing study

In recent years, investment in workplace mental health and wellbeing has grown. However, there is little understanding of how resource allocation decisions are made in such settings. To ensure evaluative research can support resource allocation, a process-based understanding of decision-making would be helpful. In phase one a systematic review of the literature on the implementation of workplace mental health and wellbeing schemes was conducted to draw insights on workplace resource allocation processes. In phase two an in-depth case study of a large company was conducted with interviews with those involved in resource allocation and wellbeing. Interviews were coded and analysed using descriptive and explanatory accounts. The findings from the review and case study were combined and developed into a causal process theory. This study shows that the stages in mental health and wellbeing investment revolve around ensuring organisational buy-in, workforce investment, and continual evaluation. Further work is needed to explore the transferability of the resulting process theory across different types of workplaces. However, it is clear that the features of real world decision-making in workplaces present challenges and opportunities for the research community

Recent advances in applications of MXenes for desalination, water purification and as an antibacterial:a review

Membranes have become a basis in tackling the global challenge of freshwater scarcity, notably in the fields of desalination and water purification. MXenes, distinguished by their notable high aspect ratio, extensive surface area, robust mechanical strength, and enduring chemical resilience, have emerged as highly promising materials for membrane development. Recent progress in the research and application of MXene membranes, especially in the areas of water desalination and treatment, marks a significant leap forward in this domain. This study conducts an exhaustive analysis of the state-of-the-art developments in the creation and enhancement of MXene-based membranes. It delves into their application in various desalination processes, including membrane-based desalination and solar-driven interfacial steam generation, alongside their use in water purification. This analysis sheds light on their efficacy in desalination processes, in addition to evaluating their antimicrobial properties and salt rejection efficiency. Moreover, the review provides an in-depth examination of the mechanics behind MXene membranes and assesses their overall impact, pinpointing both the current opportunities they present and the challenges they face. The primary goal of this discussion is to enrich the collective understanding of MXene membrane technology and to drive continuous improvement and innovation in this area. By doing so, it aims to contribute to the advancement of sustainable solutions to water scarcity through the development of more efficient and effective membrane technologies.</p

Time of day of vaccination does not influence antibody responses to pneumococcal and annual influenza vaccination in a cohort of healthy older adults

Vaccines are less immunogenic in older adults, partly due to immunosenescence. Having previously shown that morning influenza vaccination may be more immunogenic in older adults (mean age 71), we assessed if this could be replicated in a younger cohort (mean age 57) and with a T-cell independent vaccine. This study examined whether diurnal timing of a single dose of Pneumovax® (PPV-23) and seasonal influenza vaccine influenced antibody responses in 140 healthy adults over the age of 50. Pneumococcal serotype-specific (PnPS) antibodies and Haemagglutination Inhibition Assays (HAI) were used to characterize antibody responses at Baseline, 1, 4, and 52 weeks post-vaccination. Protective thresholds were set at 0.35 μg/mL for two-thirds of PnPS tested (WHO≥8/12PnPS) and a titre of ≥40 HAI for H1N1, H3N2, and B/Victoria strains. Both AM and PM cohorts showed increased Pn-specific antibodies to one PPV-23 dose at weeks 1, 4, and 52; however, time of day did not significantly influence antibody responses. Baseline immunity for pneumococcus was high (57.1 % AM, 50.0 % PM had WHO≥8/12PnPS), and immunity was maintained with at least 7/12 serotypes elevated at 52 weeks. Time of day did not alter short- or long-term influenza antibody responses. H1N1 had the highest baseline immunity (67.6 % AM, 48.6 % PM had ≥40 HAI) and the most increased responses at week 4 post-vaccination (92.8 % AM, 94.1 % PM) that were maintained at 52 weeks post-vaccination (91.7 % AM, 89.3 % PM). The poorest serotype immunity was for the B/Victoria strain at all time points. Although time of day did not influence vaccine immunogenicity in AM and PM cohorts, sustained cohort-wide antibody responses were demonstrated in an older population. Identifying 18 % of the total cohort exhibited suboptimal responses to pneumococcal or influenza vaccines underscores the imperative for enhancing vaccine efficacy within this age group to reduce morbidity and mortality.</p

Professional experiences on use of the mental health act in ethnically diverse populations:a photovoice study

Background: There are long-standing ethnic and racial inequalities in experiences and outcomes of severe mental illness, including compulsory admission and treatment (CAT). Aims: To gather professional experiences about (1) remedies for ethnic inequalities in the use of the Mental Health Act ((MHA) 1983 and 2007) and (2) recommendations for improving care experiences and for reducing ethnic inequalities. Method: We undertook a participatory research process using photovoice to gather experience data. Photographs were assembled and narrated by 17 professionals from a variety of disciplines. We undertook a thematic analysis. Results: Ineffective communications between inpatient and community services, insufficient staff capacity, a lack of continuity of care and language and cultural constraints meant MHA assessments were lacking information, leading to elevated perceptions of risk. Practitioners felt helpless at times of staff shortages and often felt CAT could have been prevented. They felt voiceless and powerless and unable to challenge stereotypes and poor practice, especially if they were from a similar demographic (ethnicity) as a patient. Interdisciplinary disagreements and mistrust led to more risk-aversive practices. The legislation created an inflexible, risk-averse and defensive process in care. Police involvement added to concerns about criminalisation and stigma. There were more risk-averse practices when team members and families disagreed on care plans. More rehabilitation and recovery-orientated care are needed. Legislative compliance in a crisis conflicted with supportive and recovery-orientated care. Conclusion: Clear standards are needed, including specific protocols for MHA assessment, police interactions, alternatives to admission, early intervention and continuity of care

A Bis‐Perylene Diimide Macrocycle Chiroptical Switch

Helical assemblies of organic dyes are ubiquitous chiral organic materials, with valuable properties including chiroptical switching due to the dynamic nature of supramolecular chirality. Herein, we report a novel chiral bis‐perylene diimide macrocycle, which acts as a discrete molecular model for a chiral supramolecular assembly. Point chirality is installed through amino acid‐derived imide groups which, upon macrocyclization, is translated into helical chirality in the perylene diimide dimer. In solution, the macrocycle's chiroptical properties are switchable, with both the sign (+/−) and amplitude (on/off) of the signal tuned using solvent and molecular recognition stimuli respectively. The chiral structure–property relationships identified from this macrocycle are important for the design of high fidelity supramolecular chiroptical switches