Showing papers by "University of Bath published in 2021"

Coping and tolerance of uncertainty: Predictors and mediators of mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract: The current pandemic wave of COVID-19 has resulted in significant uncertainty for the general public. Mental health and examining factors that may influence distress have been outlined as key research priorities to inform interventions. This research sought to examine whether intolerance of uncertainty and coping responses influence the degree of distress experienced by the U.K. general public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a cross-sectional online questionnaire design, participants were recruited (N = 842) using snowball sampling over a 10-day period in the early "lockdown" phase of the pandemic. Around a quarter of participants demonstrated significantly elevated anxiety and depression, with 14.8% reaching clinical cutoff for health anxiety. A one-way multivariate analysis of variance indicated those in "vulnerable" groups were significantly more anxious (p < .001), and also more anxious in relation to their health (p < .001). Mediation modeling demonstrated maladaptive coping responses partially mediated the predictive relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and psychological distress. Mental health difficulties have become significantly raised during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom, particularly for the vulnerable. Findings support emerging research suggesting the general public is struggling with uncertainty, more so than normal. Vulnerable groups are more anxious about their health, but not more intolerant of uncertainty than the nonvulnerable. Finally, this study indicated two modifiable factors that could act as treatment targets when adapting interventions for mental health during the COVID-19 global health crisis. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

Fluorescent small organic probes for biosensing

Abstract: Small-molecule based fluorescent probes are increasingly important for the detection and imaging of biological signaling molecules due to their simplicity, high selectivity and sensitivity, whilst being non-invasive, and suitable for real-time analysis of living systems. With this perspective we highlight sensing mechanisms including Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET), intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), photoinduced electron transfer (PeT), excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT), aggregation induced emission (AIE) and multiple modality fluorescence approaches including dual/triple sensing mechanisms (DSM or TSM). Throughout the perspective we highlight the remaining challenges and suggest potential directions for development towards improved small-molecule fluorescent probes suitable for biosensing.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Discrepancies Between Logged and Self-Reported Digital Media Use

Abstract: There is widespread public and academic interest in understanding the uses and effects of digital media. Scholars primarily use self-report measures of the quantity or duration of media use as proxies for more objective measures, but the validity of these self-reports remains unclear. Advancements in data collection techniques have produced a collection of studies indexing both self-reported and log-based measures. To assess the alignment between these measures, we conducted a pre-registered meta-analysis of this research. Based on 106 effect sizes, we found that self-reported media use correlates only moderately with logged measurements, that self-reports were rarely an accurate reflection of logged media use and that measures of problematic media use show an even weaker association with usage logs. These findings raise concerns about the validity of findings relying solely on self-reported measures of media use. In a pre-registered meta-analysis, Parry et al. find that, when self-reported media use is compared with digital logs of media use, subjective judgements are often inaccurate. This suggests caution when self-reports are used to test associations between media use and other outcomes.

Degradation mechanism of hybrid tin-based perovskite solar cells and the critical role of tin (IV) iodide.

Abstract: Tin perovskites have emerged as promising alternatives to toxic lead perovskites in next-generation photovoltaics, but their poor environmental stability remains an obstacle towards more competitive performances. Therefore, a full understanding of their decomposition processes is needed to address these stability issues. Herein, we elucidate the degradation mechanism of 2D/3D tin perovskite films based on (PEA)0.2(FA)0.8SnI3 (where PEA is phenylethylammonium and FA is formamidinium). We show that SnI4, a product of the oxygen-induced degradation of tin perovskite, quickly evolves into iodine via the combined action of moisture and oxygen. We identify iodine as a highly aggressive species that can further oxidise the perovskite to more SnI4, establishing a cyclic degradation mechanism. Perovskite stability is then observed to strongly depend on the hole transport layer chosen as the substrate, which is exploited to tackle film degradation. These key insights will enable the future design and optimisation of stable tin-based perovskite optoelectronics.

The physics of higher-order interactions in complex systems

Abstract: Complex networks have become the main paradigm for modelling the dynamics of interacting systems. However, networks are intrinsically limited to describing pairwise interactions, whereas real-world systems are often characterized by higher-order interactions involving groups of three or more units. Higher-order structures, such as hypergraphs and simplicial complexes, are therefore a better tool to map the real organization of many social, biological and man-made systems. Here, we highlight recent evidence of collective behaviours induced by higher-order interactions, and we outline three key challenges for the physics of higher-order systems. Network representations of complex systems are limited to pairwise interactions, but real-world systems often involve higher-order interactions. This Perspective looks at the new physics emerging from attempts to characterize these interactions.

Taking the Myc out of cancer: toward therapeutic strategies to directly inhibit c-Myc

Abstract: c-Myc is a transcription factor that is constitutively and aberrantly expressed in over 70% of human cancers. Its direct inhibition has been shown to trigger rapid tumor regression in mice with only mild and fully reversible side effects, suggesting this to be a viable therapeutic strategy. Here we reassess the challenges of directly targeting c-Myc, evaluate lessons learned from current inhibitors, and explore how future strategies such as miniaturisation of Omomyc and targeting E-box binding could facilitate translation of c-Myc inhibitors into the clinic.

Two-photon small-molecule fluorescence-based agents for sensing, imaging, and therapy within biological systems

Abstract: In this tutorial review, we will explore recent advances for the design, construction and application of two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF)-based small-molecule probes. The advantages of TPEF-based probes include deep tissue penetration and minimal photo-damage. We discuss the underlying two-photon (TP) fluorophores including hemicyanine and design strategies such as Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET). Moreover, we emphasize applications for the detection or imaging of cations, anions, small neutral molecules, biomacromolecules, cellular microenvironments, subcellular localization and dual-responsive systems. Examples of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using TP irradiation are also illustrated.

Small molecule based fluorescent chemosensors for imaging the microenvironment within specific cellular regions.

Abstract: The microenvironment (local environment), including viscosity, temperature, polarity, hypoxia, and acidic-basic status (pH), plays indispensable roles in cellular processes. Significantly, organelles require an appropriate microenvironment to perform their specific physiological functions, and disruption of the microenvironmental homeostasis could lead to malfunctions of organelles, resulting in disorder and disease development. Consequently, monitoring the microenvironment within specific organelles is vital to understand organelle-related physiopathology. Over the past few years, many fluorescent probes have been developed to help reveal variations in the microenvironment within specific cellular regions. Given that a comprehensive understanding of the microenvironment in a particular cellular region is of great significance for further exploration of life events, a thorough summary of this topic is urgently required. However, there has not been a comprehensive and critical review published recently on small-molecule fluorescent chemosensors for the cellular microenvironment. With this review, we summarize the recent progress since 2015 towards small-molecule based fluorescent probes for imaging the microenvironment within specific cellular regions, including the mitochondria, lysosomes, lipid drops, endoplasmic reticulum, golgi, nucleus, cytoplasmic matrix and cell membrane. Further classifications at the suborganelle level, according to detection of microenvironmental factors by probes, including polarity, viscosity, temperature, pH and hypoxia, are presented. Notably, in each category, design principles, chemical synthesis, recognition mechanism, fluorescent signals, and bio-imaging applications are summarized and compared. In addition, the limitations of the current microenvironment-sensitive probes are analyzed and the prospects for future developments are outlined. In a nutshell, this review comprehensively summarizes and highlights recent progress towards small molecule based fluorescent probes for sensing and imaging the microenvironment within specific cellular regions since 2015. We anticipate that this summary will facilitate a deeper understanding of the topic and encourage research directed towards the development of probes for the detection of cellular microenvironments.

COVID-19 and the future of CSR research

Abstract: Research on corporate social responsibility (CSR) flourished pre-COVD-19 and could reasonably claim to be one of the most widely read and cited sub-fields of management. However, the pandemic has clearly challenged a number of existing CSR assumptions, concepts, and practices. We aim to identify four key areas where CSR research has been challenged by COVID-19 – stakeholders, societal risk, supply chain responsibility, and the political economy of CSR – and propose how future CSR research should be realigned to tackle them.

Hydrogel-Forming Microneedles: Current Advancements and Future Trends.

Abstract: In this focused progress review, the recent developments and trends of hydrogel-forming microneedles (HFMs) and potential future directions are presented. Previously, microneedles (solid, hollow, coated, and dissolving microneedles) have primarily been used to enhance the effectiveness of transdermal drug delivery to facilitate a wide range of applications such as vaccinations and antibiotic delivery. However, the recent trend in microneedle development has resulted in microneedles formed from hydrogels which have the ability to offer transdermal drug delivery and, due to the hydrogel swelling nature, passively extract interstitial fluid from the skin, meaning they have the potential to be used for biocompatible minimally invasive monitoring devices. Thus, in this review, these recent trends are highlighted, which consolidate microneedle design considerations, hydrogel formulations, fabrication processes, applications of HFMs and the potential future opportunities for utilizing HFMs for personalized healthcare monitoring and treatment.

Small-molecule fluorescence-based probes for interrogating major organ diseases.

Abstract: Chemical tools that allow the real-time monitoring of organ function and the visualisation of organ-related processes at the cellular level are of great importance in biological research. The upregulation/downregulation of specific biomarkers is often associated with the development of organ related diseases. Small-molecule fluorescent probes have the potential to create advances in our understanding of these disorders. Viable probes should be endowed with a number of key features that include high biomarker sensitivity, low limit of detection, fast response times and appropriate in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility. In this tutorial review, we discuss the development of probes that allow the targeting of organ related processes in vitro and in vivo. We highlight the design strategy that underlies the preparation of various promising probes, their optical response to key biomarkers, and proof-of-concept biological studies. The inherent drawbacks and limitations are discussed as are the current challenges and opportunities in the field. The hope is that this tutorial review will inspire the further development of small-molecule fluorescent probes that could aid the study of pathogenic conditions that contribute to organ-related diseases.

Epidemiology of cardiovascular disease in Europe

Abstract: This Review presents data describing the health burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) within and across the WHO European Region. CVD remains the most common cause of death in the region. Deaths from CVD in those aged 60 million potential years of life lost to CVD in Europe annually. Although more women than men die from CVD, age-standardized rates of both morbidity and death are higher in men, and these differences in rates are greatest in individuals aged <70 years. Large inequalities in all measures of morbidity, treatment and mortality can be found between countries across the continent and must be a focus for improving health. Large differences also exist in the data available between countries. The development and implementation of evidence-based preventive and treatment approaches must be supported in all countries by consistent surveillance and monitoring, such that we can quantify the health burden of CVD as well as target interventions and provide impetus for action across Europe. In this Review, Townsend et al. describe the epidemiology of cardiovascular disease across the WHO European Region and call for improved surveillance and monitoring to inform the development and implementation of evidence-based preventive and treatment approaches.

Molecular Main Group Metal Hydrides

Abstract: This review serves to document advances in the synthesis, versatile bonding, and reactivity of molecular main group metal hydrides within Groups 1, 2, and 12-16. Particular attention will be given to the emerging use of said hydrides in the rapidly expanding field of Main Group element-mediated catalysis. While this review is comprehensive in nature, focus will be given to research appearing in the open literature since 2001.

Oxygen vacancy engineering in Fe doped akhtenskite-type MnO2 for low-temperature toluene oxidation

Abstract: To clarify the discrepancies between oxygen vacancies (VO) types and concentrations, we designed two types of VO by substituting Mn4+ in akhtenskite-type MnO2 with low-valence manganese (e.g. Mn3+) or iron (e.g. Fe3+), denoted as VO (MM) and VO (FM), respectively. The concentration of VO was adjustable by the varied sample calcination temperature. The catalysts with more VO (FM) achieved higher toluene specific reaction rate and better stability than those of Mn3+ doped MnO2, ascribing to the chemical and reactive difference of their different Vo types. Toluene specific reaction rate have been quantitatively calculated to estimate the contribution of VO on catalytic performance and followed the order of F1M4 (2.73 mmol/(g h)) > F2M13 (2.29 mmol/(g h)) > F1M14 (1.52 mmol/(g h)) > Mn (0.91 mmol/(g h)) > F1M2 (0.89 mmol/(g h)) at 200 °C (Mn, F1M14, F2M13, F1M4 and F1M2 represented pure MnO2 and Fe doped MnO2 with Fe/Mn = 1/14, 2/13, 1/4, and 1/2, respectively). Additionally, the VO concentrations of as-prepared catalysts decreased with the increasing calcination temperature, which then led to the declining activity for toluene oxidation. Furthermore, in situ DRIFTS spectra demonstrated that the higher concentrations of VO (FM) sites accelerated the transformation of intermediates from benzaldehyde to benzoate, which was the intermediate to be further oxidized into CO2 and H2O.

Virtual Histology of Cortical Thickness and Shared Neurobiology in 6 Psychiatric Disorders

Abstract: Importance Large-scale neuroimaging studies have revealed group differences in cortical thickness across many psychiatric disorders. The underlying neurobiology behind these differences is not well understood. Objective To determine neurobiologic correlates of group differences in cortical thickness between cases and controls in 6 disorders: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and schizophrenia. Design, Setting, and Participants Profiles of group differences in cortical thickness between cases and controls were generated using T1-weighted magnetic resonance images. Similarity between interregional profiles of cell-specific gene expression and those in the group differences in cortical thickness were investigated in each disorder. Next, principal component analysis was used to reveal a shared profile of group difference in thickness across the disorders. Analysis for gene coexpression, clustering, and enrichment for genes associated with these disorders were conducted. Data analysis was conducted between June and December 2019. The analysis included 145 cohorts across 6 psychiatric disorders drawn from the ENIGMA consortium. The numbers of cases and controls in each of the 6 disorders were as follows: ADHD: 1814 and 1602; ASD: 1748 and 1770; BD: 1547 and 3405; MDD: 2658 and 3572; OCD: 2266 and 2007; and schizophrenia: 2688 and 3244. Main Outcomes and Measures Interregional profiles of group difference in cortical thickness between cases and controls. Results A total of 12 721 cases and 15 600 controls, ranging from ages 2 to 89 years, were included in this study. Interregional profiles of group differences in cortical thickness for each of the 6 psychiatric disorders were associated with profiles of gene expression specific to pyramidal (CA1) cells, astrocytes (except for BD), and microglia (except for OCD); collectively, gene-expression profiles of the 3 cell types explain between 25% and 54% of variance in interregional profiles of group differences in cortical thickness. Principal component analysis revealed a shared profile of difference in cortical thickness across the 6 disorders (48% variance explained); interregional profile of this principal component 1 was associated with that of the pyramidal-cell gene expression (explaining 56% of interregional variation). Coexpression analyses of these genes revealed 2 clusters: (1) a prenatal cluster enriched with genes involved in neurodevelopmental (axon guidance) processes and (2) a postnatal cluster enriched with genes involved in synaptic activity and plasticity-related processes. These clusters were enriched with genes associated with all 6 psychiatric disorders. Conclusions and Relevance In this study, shared neurobiologic processes were associated with differences in cortical thickness across multiple psychiatric disorders. These processes implicate a common role of prenatal development and postnatal functioning of the cerebral cortex in these disorders.

Dual-locked spectroscopic probes for sensing and therapy

Abstract: Optical imaging probes allow us to detect and uncover the physiological and pathological functions of an analyte of interest at the molecular level in a non-invasive, longitudinal manner. By virtue of simplicity, low cost, high sensitivity, adaptation to automated analysis, capacity for spatially resolved imaging and diverse signal output modes, optical imaging probes have been widely applied in biology, physiology, pharmacology and medicine. To build a reliable and practically/clinically relevant probe, the design process often encompasses multidisciplinary themes, including chemistry, biology and medicine. Within the repertoire of probes, dual-locked systems are particularly interesting as a result of their ability to offer enhanced specificity and multiplex detection. In addition, chemiluminescence is a low-background, excitation-free optical modality and, thus, can be integrated into dual-locked systems, permitting crosstalk-free fluorescent and chemiluminescent detection of two distinct biomarkers. For many researchers, these dual-locked systems remain a ‘black box’. Therefore, this Review aims to offer a ‘beginner’s guide’ to such dual-locked systems, providing simple explanations on how they work, what they can do and where they have been applied, in order to help readers develop a deeper understanding of this rich area of research. Dual-locked optical probes change their optical signals when they respond to two biomarkers of interest. This facilitates real-time imaging of multiple interrelated biomarkers in living systems and, thus, provides opportunities to better understand pathological events and enhanced diagnostic specificity.

The Chemical Recycling of Polyesters for a Circular Plastics Economy: Challenges and Emerging Opportunities.

Abstract: Whilst plastics have played an instrumental role in human development, growing environmental concerns have led to increasing public scrutiny and demands for outright bans. This has stimulated considerable research into renewable alternatives, and more recently, the development of alternative waste management strategies. Herein, the aim was to highlight recent developments in the catalytic chemical recycling of two commercial polyesters, namely poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET). The concept of chemical recycling is first introduced, and associated opportunities/challenges are discussed within the context of the governing depolymerisation thermodynamics. Chemical recycling methods for PLA and PET are then discussed, with a particular focus on upcycling and the use of metal-based catalysts. Finally, the attention shifts to the emergence of new materials with the potential to modernise the plastics economy. Emerging opportunities and challenges are discussed within the context of industrial feasibility.

Updating goal-setting theory in physical activity promotion: a critical conceptual review

Abstract: Goal-setting is a widely used and accepted strategy for promoting physical activity. Locke and Latham's goal-setting theory is the primary theoretical framework for setting goals in psychology and plays a prominent role in physical activity promotion. Recently, however, there have been calls to reconsider current goal-setting practice in this field. Therefore, we aimed to critically review and update the application of goal-setting theory in physical activity promotion, by examining core developments in this theory since 1990. Current practice relies on setting specific 'performance' goals as a means of increasing physical activity (e.g., 10,000 steps; national physical activity guidelines). This approach was initially consistent with key tenets of goal-setting theory. However, since 1990 this theory has evolved to differentiate between performance and learning goals. Both goal types are context-dependent and it is now recognised that, in some cases, performance goals can even be detrimental to the achievement of desired outcomes. Consequently, current practice may be theoretically appropriate for physically active individuals but a different approach (e.g., learning goals) may be preferable for inactive individuals who are new to physical activity (i.e., most of the population). We conclude by discussing implications for policy, research, and practice in goal-setting for physical activity promotion.

Indicator displacement assays (IDAs): the past, present and future.

Abstract: Indicator displacement assays (IDAs) offer a unique and innovative approach to molecular sensing. IDAs can facilitate the detection of a range of biologically/environmentally important species, provide a method for the detection of complex analytes or for the determination and discrimination of unknown sample mixtures. These attributes often cannot be achieved by traditional molecular sensors i.e. reaction-based sensors/chemosensors. The IDA pioneers Inouye, Shinkai, and Anslyn inspired researchers worldwide to develop various extensions of this idea. Since their early work, the field of indicator displacement assays has expanded to include: enantioselective indicator displacement assays (eIDAs), fluorescent indicator displacement assays (FIDAs), reaction-based indicator displacement assays (RIAs), DimerDye disassembly assays (DDAs), intramolecular indicator displacement assays (IIDAs), allosteric indicator displacement assay (AIDAs), mechanically controlled indicator displacement assays (MC-IDAs), and quencher displacement assays (QDAs). The simplicity of these IDAs, coupled with low cost, high sensitivity, and ability to carry out high-throughput automation analysis (i.e., sensing arrays) has led to their ubiquitous use in molecular sensing, alongside the other common approaches such as reaction-based sensors and chemosensors. In this review, we highlight the various design strategies that have been used to develop an IDA, including the design strategies for the newly reported extensions to these systems. To achieve this, we have divided this review into sections based on the target analyte, the importance of each analyte and then the reported IDA system is discussed. In addition, each section includes details on the benefit of the IDAs and perceived limitations for each system. We conclude this Tutorial Review by highlighting the current challenges associated with the development of new IDAs and suggest potential future avenues of research.

An Agenda for Open Science in Communication

Abstract: In the last 10 years, many canonical findings in the social sciences appear unreliable. This so-called “replication crisis” has spurred calls for open science practices, which aim to increase the reproducibility, replicability, and generalizability of findings. Communication research is subject to many of the same challenges that have caused low replicability in other fields. As a result, we propose an agenda for adopting open science practices in Communication, which includes the following seven suggestions: (1) publish materials, data, and code; (2) preregister studies and submit registered reports; (3) conduct replications; (4) collaborate; (5) foster open science skills; (6) implement Transparency and Openness Promotion Guidelines; and (7) incentivize open science practices. Although in our agenda we focus mostly on quantitative research, we also reflect on open science practices relevant to qualitative research. We conclude by discussing potential objections and concerns associated with open science practices.

Changes in delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations in cannabis over time: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cannabis products with high delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentrations carry an increased risk of addiction and mental health disorders, while it has been suggested that cannabidiol (CBD) may moderate the effects of THC. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyse changes in THC and CBD concentrations in cannabis over time (PROSPERO registration: CRD42019130055). DESIGN Embase, MEDLINE® and Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process and Other Non-Indexed Citations and Daily, Global Health, PsycINFO and Scopus were searched from inception to 27/03/2019 for observational studies reporting changes in mean THC and/or CBD concentration in cannabis over at least three annual time points. Searches and extraction were conducted by two independent reviewers. Random effects meta-regression models estimated annual changes in THC and CBD for each product within each study; these estimates were pooled across studies in random effects models. RESULTS We identified 12 eligible studies from the USA, UK, Netherlands, France, Denmark, Italy and New Zealand. For all herbal cannabis, THC concentrations increased by 0.29% each year (95% CI: 0.11, 0.47), P < 0.001 based on 66 747 cannabis samples from eight studies, 1970-2017. For cannabis resin, THC concentrations increased by 0.57% each year (95% CI: 0.10, 1.03), P = 0.017 based on 17 371 samples from eight studies, 1975-2017. There was no evidence for changes in CBD in herbal cannabis [-0.01% (95% CI: -0.02, 0.01), P = 0.280; 49 434 samples from five studies, 1995-2017] or cannabis resin [0.03% (95% CI: -0.11, 0.18), P = 0.651; 11 382 samples from six studies, 1992-2017]. Risk of bias was low apart from non-random sampling in most studies. There was evidence of moderate to substantial heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS Concentrations of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in international cannabis markets increased from 1970 to 2017 while cannabidiol (CBD) remained stable. Increases in THC were greater in cannabis resin than herbal cannabis. Rising THC in herbal cannabis was attributable to an increased market share of high-THC sinsemilla relative to low-THC traditional herbal cannabis.

Cortical thickness across the lifespan: Data from 17,075 healthy individuals aged 3-90 years

Abstract: Delineating the association of age and cortical thickness in healthy individuals is critical given the association of cortical thickness with cognition and behavior. Previous research has shown that robust estimates of the association between age and brain morphometry require large-scale studies. In response, we used cross-sectional data from 17,075 individuals aged 3-90 years from the Enhancing Neuroimaging Genetics through Meta-Analysis (ENIGMA) Consortium to infer age-related changes in cortical thickness. We used fractional polynomial (FP) regression to quantify the association between age and cortical thickness, and we computed normalized growth centiles using the parametric Lambda, Mu, and Sigma method. Interindividual variability was estimated using meta-analysis and one-way analysis of variance. For most regions, their highest cortical thickness value was observed in childhood. Age and cortical thickness showed a negative association; the slope was steeper up to the third decade of life and more gradual thereafter; notable exceptions to this general pattern were entorhinal, temporopolar, and anterior cingulate cortices. Interindividual variability was largest in temporal and frontal regions across the lifespan. Age and its FP combinations explained up to 59% variance in cortical thickness. These results may form the basis of further investigation on normative deviation in cortical thickness and its significance for behavioral and cognitive outcomes.