bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-bandwidth pressure field imaging of fin-generated shock wave–boundary layer interactions
Authors: Puckett Seth , Narayanaswamy Venkat
Published: November 2024

The dynamics of a shock-induced separation unit generated by a 20

$^\circ$

sharp fin placed on a cylindrical surface in a Mach 2.5 flow was investigated. Specifically, the present work investigated the mechanisms that govern the mid-frequency range of separation shock unsteadiness in the fin shock wave–boundary layer interaction (SBLI) unit. Two-dimensional pressure fields were obtained over the cylinder surface spanning the entire fin SBLI unit using high-bandwidth pressure-sensitive paint at 40 kHz imaging rate that allowed probing the low- through mid-frequency ranges of the separation shock unsteadiness. The mean pressure field showed a progressive weakening of the separation shock with downstream distance, which is an artifact of the three-dimensional relief offered by the curved mounting surface. The root-mean-square (r.m.s.) pressure field exhibited a banded structure with elevated

$p_{r.m.s.}$

levels beneath the intermittent region, separation vortex and adjacent to the fin root. The power spectral density (PSD) of the surface pressure fluctuations obtained beneath the intermittent region revealed that the separation shock oscillations exhibited the mid-frequency content over the majority of its length. Interestingly, neither the PSD nor the length of the intermittent region varied noticeably with downstream distance, revealing a constant separation shock foot velocity along the entire SBLI. The pressure fluctuation PSD beneath the separation vortex also exhibited the broadband peak at the mid-frequency range of the separation shock motions over the majority of its length within the measurement domain. By contrast, the region adjacent to the fin root exhibited pressure oscillations at a substantially lower frequency compared with the separation shock and the separation vortex. Two-point coherence and cross-correlation analysis provided unique insights into the critical sources and mechanisms that drive the separation shock unsteadiness. The separation vortex and separation shock dynamics were found to be driven by a combination of convecting perturbations that originated from the vicinity of the fin leading edge and the local interactions of the separated flow with the incoming boundary layer. The boundary layer locally strengthened or weakened the convecting pressure perturbations depending on the local momentum fluctuations within the boundary layer.
Low-cost, high-throughput quantification of microplastics released from textile wash tests: Introducing the fibre fragmentation scale
Authors: Murden Sophia , Macintyre Lisa
Published: November 2024

Microplastic fibres are found everywhere that researchers have looked for them, from remote mountains to human lungs. However, data are not yet available to facilitate the design of low-shedding textiles. Effective use of standard test methods could establish the impact of processing variables on textile’s propensity to fragment or shed fibres into the environment, allowing industry to design and select lower-polluting materials. Three new test methods are recommended using the widely accessible accelerated laundering equipment used for colour fastness to wash tests. However, the recommended gravimetric analysis of results takes over 8 h per specimen batch, in addition to specimen preparation, testing and effluent filtration, making analysing test results prohibitively time-consuming, and expensive, for many brands. Visual ‘grey scales’ are very commonly used to grade colour fastness test results, and this article proposes the use of an equivalent ‘fibre fragmentation scale’ to dramatically increase the throughput of fibre fragmentation testing and reduce its cost without compromising accuracy or reliability. Mean fibre fragmentation scale grades given by sets of three observers correlated with gravimetric results at 99% confidence. Subjective grades assigned to test specimens, and photographs of test specimens, had significantly lower variability than gravimetric methods at small, ‘more acceptable’, levels of fibre fragmentation.
Transforming Africa’s food systems: building resilience to deliver healthy diets
Authors: Lartey Anna , Guthiga Paul , Tefara Wondwosen , Badiane Ousmane , Thiam Aboubacry , Fawzi Wafaie , Madzorera Isabel
Published: November 2024

Food systems in Africa are under pressure from climate change, conflicts, health pandemics such as COVID-19 and rising food prices. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted weaknesses in global food systems and indeed Africa’s was not spared. Although COVID-19 mortality and morbidity in Africa were relatively low in comparison to other regions, the containment measures employed by countries amplified a rather dire situation. Disruptions were seen in livelihoods, food value chains, increases in food prices and loss of income. These changes affected access to nutritious foods. A resilient food system that can withstand and recover from disruption and shocks will be important for ensuring access to healthy diets for all. This review paper assesses the state of food insecurity and malnutrition situation pre-COVID-19 and the impact of COVID-19 on Africa’s food systems and access to healthy diet. To put Africa on a path to accelerated recovery, a resilient and sustainable food system will be crucial. The following recommendations are made: (i) increasing agriculture productivity, with special attention to the foods that contribute to healthy diets – fruits and vegetables, and animal source foods (ii) promoting the production and consumption of nutritious African traditional and indigenous foods (iii) transforming Africa’s food systems to be gender-sensitive (iv) investing in well-targeted social protection programmes (v) supporting food environments that protect healthy diets and (vi) employing data and information to monitor food systems transformation.
Residual weed control in cotton utilizing herbicide-coated fertilizer
Authors: Dean Brock A. , Cahoon Charles W. , Collins Guy D. , Jordan David L. , Taylor Zachary R. , Forehand Jacob C. , de Sanctis Jose S. , Lee James H.
Published: November 2024

An experiment was conducted in 2022 and 2023 near Rocky Mount and Clayton, NC, to evaluate residual herbicide-coated fertilizer for cotton tolerance and Palmer amaranth control. Treatments included acetochlor, atrazine, dimethenamid-P, diuron, flumioxazin, fluometuron, fluridone, fomesafen, linuron, metribuzin, pendimethalin, pyroxasulfone, pyroxasulfone + carfentrazone, S-metolachlor, and sulfentrazone. Each herbicide was individually coated on granular ammonium sulfate (AMS) and top-dressed at 321 kg ha−1 (67 kg N ha−1) onto 5- to 7-leaf cotton. The check plots received the equivalent rate of nonherbicide-treated AMS. Before top-dress, all plots (including the check) were treated with glyphosate and glufosinate to control previously emerged weeds. All herbicides except metribuzin resulted in transient cotton injury. Cotton response to metribuzin varied by year and location. In 2022, metribuzin caused 11% to 39% and 8% to 17% injury at the Clayton and Rocky Mount locations, respectively. In 2023, metribuzin caused 13% to 32% injury at Clayton and 73% to 84% injury at Rocky Mount. Pyroxasulfone (91%), pyroxasulfone + carfentrazone (89%), fomesafen (87%), fluridone (86%), flumioxazin (86%), and atrazine (85%) controlled Palmer amaranth ≥85%. Pendimethalin and fluometuron were the least effective treatments, resulting in 58% and 62% control, respectively. As anticipated, early season metribuzin injury translated into yield loss; plots treated with metribuzin yielded 640 kg ha−1 and were comparable to yields after linuron (790 kg ha−1) was used. These findings suggest that with the exception of metribuzin, residual herbicides coated onto AMS may be suitable and effective in cotton production, providing growers with additional modes of action for late-season control of multiple herbicide–resistant Palmer amaranth.
Evaluating the Convergence of Dimensions Across Social Evaluation Models
Authors: Carmona-Díaz Gino , Barbosa Sergio , Arévalo-García Estefanía , Zamora-Marcelo Gabriel Ricardo , Jiménez-Leal William
Published: November 2024

Abstract: A recent adversarial collaboration integrated dimensions proposed in five major theories of social evaluation into two overarching dimensions: Horizontal and Vertical. This paper examines the convergence in how evaluative dimensions have been operationalized for each model to determine if they address the same constructs. Across various coding strategies and using two similarity indexes, we found robust evidence of low convergence in the traits used to operationalize dimensions assumed to represent the same constructs. These results suggest that the integration proposed by the adversarial collaboration might be limited, as it is unclear whether dimensions within the Horizontal and Vertical domains correspond to the same constructs. We discuss the theoretical and methodological implications and propose recommendations for refining construct operationalization.
Bifunctional nanoprobe for simultaneous detection of intracellular reactive oxygen species and temperature in single cells
Authors: Ma Yanmei , Hu Weikang , Hu Jian , Ruan Muyang , Hu Jie , Yang Ming , Zhang Yi , Xie Hanhan , Hu Chengzhi
Published: November 2024

Living cells can rapidly adjust their metabolic activities in response to external stimuli, leading to fluctuations in intracellular temperature and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Monitoring these parameters is essential for understanding cellular metabolism, particularly during dynamic biological processes. In this study, we present a bifunctional nanoprobe capable of simultaneous measurement of ROS levels and temperature within single cells. The nanoprobe features two individually addressable nanoelectrodes, with platinum (Pt) and nickel (Ni) coatings on both sides. At the tip, these two metal layers form a nano-thermocouple, enabling precise intracellular temperature measurements, while the Pt layer facilitates selective ROS detection. This dual functionality allows for real-time monitoring of cellular responses during synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy of cancer cells and zebrafish embryos subjected to mitochondrial toxic stress. Our results demonstrate that the nanoprobe effectively measures increases in temperature and ROS levels in HeLa cells undergoing chemo-photothermal therapy, as well as in chemically stimulated zebrafish embryos. By providing detailed analysis of submicrometer-scale temperature and ROS variations within living cells, this nanoprobe offers valuable insights into cellular processes and holds promise for early disease detection and drug development.
Sodium oligomannate disrupts the adherence of Ribhigh bacteria to gut epithelia to block SAA-triggered Th1 inflammation in 5XFAD transgenic mice
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Xie Zuoquan , Yuan Jie , Jin Enjing , Lian Wen , Chang Shuaishuai , Sun Guangqiang , Feng Zhengnan , Xu Hui , Du Chen , Yang Xinying , Xia Aihua , Qiu Ji , Zhang Qingli , Lin Feifei , Liu Jia , Li Liang , Du Xiaoguang , Xiao Zhongping , Yi Zhou , Luo Zhiyu , Ge Changrong , Li Rui , Zheng Mingyue , Jiang Yi , Wang Tao , Zhang Jing , Guo Qihao , Geng Meiyu
Published: November 2024

Sodium oligomannate (GV-971), an oligosaccharide drug approved in China for treating mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD), was previously found to recondition the gut microbiota and limit altered peripheral Th1 immunity in AD transgenic mice. As a follow-up study, we here made advances by pinpointing a Lactobacillus murinus (L.m.) strain that highly expressed a gene encoding a putative adhesin containing Rib repeats (Ribhigh-L.m.) particularly enriched in 5XFAD transgenic mice. Mechanistically, Ribhigh-L.m. adherence to the gut epithelia upregulated fecal metabolites, among which lactate ranked as the top candidate. Excess lactate stimulated the epithelial production of serum amyloid A (SAA) in the gut via the GPR81-NFκB axis, contributing to peripheral Th1 activation. Moreover, GV-971 disrupted the adherence of Ribhigh-L.m. to gut epithelia via direct binding to Rib, which corrected the excess lactate, reduced SAA, and alleviated Th1-skewed inflammation. Together, we gained further insights into the molecular link between gut bacteria and AD progression and the mechanism of GV-971 in treating AD.
Profiling of insulin-resistant kidney models and human biopsies reveals common and cell-type-specific mechanisms underpinning Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Lay Abigail C. , Tran Van Du T. , Nair Viji , Betin Virginie , Hurcombe Jennifer A. , Barrington Alexandra F. , Pope Robert JP , Burdet Frédéric , Mehl Florence , Kryvokhyzha Dmytro , Ahmad Abrar , Sinton Matthew C. , Lewis Philip , Wilson Marieangela C. , Menon Rajasree , Otto Edgar , Heesom Kate J. , Ibberson Mark , Looker Helen C. , Nelson Robert G. , Ju Wenjun , Kretzler Matthias , Satchell Simon C. , Gomez Maria F. , Coward Richard J. M. ,   BEAt-DKD consortium, Ju Wenjun , Kretzler Matthias
Published: November 2024

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of end stage kidney failure worldwide, of which cellular insulin resistance is a major driver. Here, we study key human kidney cell types implicated in DKD (podocytes, glomerular endothelial, mesangial and proximal tubular cells) in insulin sensitive and resistant conditions, and perform simultaneous transcriptomics and proteomics for integrated analysis. Our data is further compared with bulk- and single-cell transcriptomic kidney biopsy data from early- and advanced-stage DKD patient cohorts. We identify several consistent changes (individual genes, proteins, and molecular pathways) occurring across all insulin-resistant kidney cell types, together with cell-line-specific changes occurring in response to insulin resistance, which are replicated in DKD biopsies. This study provides a rich data resource to direct future studies in elucidating underlying kidney signalling pathways and potential therapeutic targets in DKD.
Impact of rotavirus vaccination in Malawi from 2012 to 2022 compared to model predictions
Authors: Pitzer Virginia E. , Ndeketa Latif , Asare Ernest O. , Hungerford Daniel , Lopman Benjamin A. , Jere Khuzwayo C. , Cunliffe Nigel A.
Published: November 2024

Rotarix® vaccine was introduced into the Malawi national immunization program in October 2012. We analyzed data on children <5 years old hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis from January 2012 to June 2022, and compared to pre-vaccination data from 1997 to 2009. We estimated vaccine coverage before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic using data from rotavirus-negative children. We compared the observed weekly number of rotavirus-associated gastroenteritis (RVGE) cases by age to predictions from a previously developed mathematical model to estimate overall vaccine effectiveness. The number of RVGE and rotavirus-negative acute gastroenteritis cases declined substantially following vaccine introduction. Vaccine coverage among rotavirus-negative controls was >90% with two doses by July 2014, and declined to a low of ~80% in October 2020 before returning to pre-pandemic levels by July 2021. Our models captured the post-vaccination trends in RVGE incidence. Comparing observed RVGE cases to the model-predicted incidence without vaccination, overall effectiveness was estimated to be modest at 36.0% (95% prediction interval: 33.6%, 39.9%), peaking in 2014, and was highest in infants (52.5%; 95% prediction interval: 50.1%, 54.9%). Our mathematical models provide a validated platform for assessing strategies to improve rotavirus vaccine impact in low-income settings.
Boosting neuraminidase immunity in the presence of hemagglutinin with the next generation of influenza vaccines
Authors: Cortés Guadalupe , Ustyugova Irina , Farrell Timothy , McDaniel Clint , Britain Colleen , Romano Christopher , N’Diaye Siré , Zheng Lingyi , Ferdous Mithila , Iampietro Justin , Pougatcheva Svetlana , La Rue Lauren , Han Liqun , Ma Fuqin , Stegalkina Svetlana , Ray Satyajit , Zhang Jianxin , Barro Mario
Published: November 2024

Neuraminidase (NA), the second most abundant surface glycoprotein on the influenza virus, plays a key role in viral replication and propagation. Despite growing evidence showing that NA-specific antibodies correlate with resistance to disease in humans, current licensed vaccines focus almost entirely on the hemagglutinin (HA) antigen. Here, we demonstrate that recombinant NA (rNA) protein is highly immunogenic in both naïve mice and ferrets, as well as in pre-immune ferrets, irrespective of the level of match with preexisting immunity. Ferrets vaccinated with rNA developed mild influenza disease symptoms upon challenge with human H3N2 influenza virus, and anti-NA antibody responses appeared correlated with reduction in disease severity. The addition of rNA to a quadrivalent HA-based vaccine induced robust NA-specific humoral immunity in ferrets, while retaining the ability to induce HA-specific immunity. These results demonstrate that the addition of rNA is a viable option to increase immunogenicity and potentially efficacy versus currently licensed influenza vaccines by means of boosting NA immunity.
Goffin’s cockatoos use object mass but not balance cues when making object transport decisions
Authors: Adelmant Celestine , Osuna-Mascaró Antonio J. , Folkertsma Remco , Auersperg Alice M. I.
Published: November 2024

Utilising weight cues can improve the efficiency of foraging behaviours by providing information on nutritional value, material strength, and tool functionality. Attending to weight cues may also facilitate the optimisation of object transport. Though some animals’ ability to assess weight cues has been determined, research into whether they can apply weight assessment during practical decision making is limited. In this study, we investigate whether Goffin’s cockatoos (Cacatua goffiniana) account for relative weight and unequal versus equal weight distribution when making object transport decisions, and whether sensitivity to these cues varies depending on transport mode. We conducted a series of binary choice experiments in which birds could choose to transport one of two identical, non-functional, equally rewarded objects differing only in overall weight (experiment 1) or weight balance (experiment 2) over a short distance. We found that in experiment 1, Goffin’s cockatoos preferred to transport light objects over heavy objects and seemed to rely more on weight cues to inform decisions over time, whereas in experiment 2, weight balance cues were ignored. Contrary to our predictions, Goffin’s cockatoos did not show increased preference for lighter or more balanced objects when employing higher energy transport modes (flight) compared to lower energy modes (walking). We suggest that this may be due to an insufficient difference in physical effort between transport modes due to the short distance travelled. These findings provide the first evidence of weight cues being considered to optimise object transport in birds.
Evaluation of plasma activated liquids for the elimination of mixed species biofilms within endoscopic working channels
Authors: Northage Naomi , Shvalya Vasyl , Modic Martina , Juergens Thorsten , Eschborn Sascha , Horsburgh Malcolm J. , Walsh James L.
Published: November 2024

The use of reusable flexible endoscopes has increased dramatically over the past decade, however despite improvements in endoscope reprocessing, the continued emergence of endoscopy-associated outbreaks as a result of multi-drug resistant bacteria has highlighted the need for a new approach to disinfection. Here, the use of plasma activated liquids (PALs) for the elimination of mixed species biofilm contamination within the working channels of endoscopes was evaluated. Cold atmospheric pressure plasma was used to chemically activate water and a commercially available pH buffered peracetic acid to create PALs. Polytetrafluoroethylene endoscope surrogate test pieces were contaminated with clinically relevant mixed species biofilms. The efficacy of PALs for the decontamination of narrow lumens was compared against the commercial disinfectant. Plasma activation was found to increase the antibiofilm capabilities of pH buffered peracetic acid by introducing reactive chemical species into the solution. Disinfection of endoscopic test pieces with plasma activated disinfectant (PAD) resulted in a 7.30 log10 reduction of biofilm contamination in 5 min, surpassing the 4.39 log10 reduction observed with the currently used endoscope disinfection method. PAD also resulted in reduced regrowth and recolonization of the surface of the endoscopic test pieces. Minimal changes to the surface morphology and composition were observed following exposure to PAD in comparison to the commercial disinfectant, suggesting the developed approach is no more aggressive than current disinfection approaches.
Daily intake of a dairy-based nutritional supplement improved self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms and modulated microbiota in adult Chinese volunteers
Authors: Borewicz Klaudyna , Zhao Yifan , Zhu Yaqiong
Published: November 2024

Mild and persisting gastrointestinal symptoms (MPGS) as bloating, constipation or diarrhea are widespread in older adults and often accompanied by gut microbiota dysbiosis. Nutritional interventions help to regulate and restore microbiota and gut function. In this non-randomized continuous prospective cohort study, we evaluated the effects of a 21-day intervention using a dietary dairy-based supplement (AGIJOY™) on self-reported gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, fecal microbiota composition and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) levels in a cohort of Chinese adults (N = 46, age 27–73) suffering from MPGS. Questionnaire data and fecal samples were collected at baseline (D0), on day 7 and 21 of intervention (D7 and D21). The results showed significant improvement in the self-reported GI symptoms on D21 and a gradual shift in the fecal microbiota composition. In the first week of intervention, the relative abundance (RA) of fecal bifidobacteria significantly increased and the RA of Bacteroides and Helicobacter decreased (p < 0.05). The levels of fecal SCFA remained unchanged during the study. To our knowledge, this is the first study testing the effect of this prebiotic and postbiotic containing milk-based supplement blend on gut microbiota and MPGS among Chinese population under a real living environment.
Multimodal assessment of brain stiffness variation in healthy subjects using magnetic resonance elastography and ultrasound time-harmonic elastography
Authors: Klemmer Chandía Stefan , Schattenfroh Jakob , Brinker Spencer T. , Tzschätzsch Heiko , Sack Ingolf , Meyer Tom
Published: November 2024

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is a noninvasive brain stiffness mapping method. Ultrasound-based transtemporal time-harmonic elastography (THE) is emerging as a cost-effective, fast alternative that has potential applications for bedside monitoring of intracranial pressure. We aim to investigate the accuracy of THE in comparison to MRE performed in the brain. Ten healthy volunteers (25–40 years old) underwent multifrequency MRE (20–35 Hz) and THE (27–56 Hz). Fiducial-marker-based optical tracking of the ultrasound field of view was used to align THE to 3D MRE. THE- and MRE-derived shear wave speed (SWS) was determined as a measure of brain stiffness and averaged within regions of various depths for cross-modality correlation analysis. MRE-measured SWS ranged from 1.0 to 1.3 m/s and was negatively correlated with age (R2 = 0.44, p = 0.035). After registration of both modalities, SWS values were linearly correlated (MRE: 1.14 ± 0.08 m/s, THE: 1.13 ± 0.10 m/s; R2 = 0.62, p = 0.007). Best agreement between modalities was achieved at depths of 40–60 mm, suggesting this range provides a viable trade-off between ultrasound attenuation and near-field bias. Similar brain regions can be consistently measured with both elastography modalities, despite the regional and individual variations of stiffness. Transtemporal THE yields stiffness values in a range similar to those obtained with more expensive MRE.
Cellular and molecular roles of reactive oxygen species in wound healing
Authors: Hunt Matthew , Torres Monica , Bachar-Wikstrom Etty , Wikstrom Jakob D.
Published: November 2024

Wound healing is a highly coordinated spatiotemporal sequence of events involving several cell types and tissues. The process of wound healing requires strict regulation, and its disruption can lead to the formation of chronic wounds, which can have a significant impact on an individual’s health as well as on worldwide healthcare expenditure. One essential aspect within the cellular and molecular regulation of wound healing pathogenesis is that of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. Wounding significantly elevates levels of ROS, and an array of various reactive species are involved in modulating the wound healing process, such as through antimicrobial activities and signal transduction. However, as in many pathologies, ROS play an antagonistic pleiotropic role in wound healing, and can be a pathogenic factor in the formation of chronic wounds. Whilst advances in targeting ROS and oxidative stress have led to the development of novel pre-clinical therapeutic methods, due to the complex nature of ROS in wound healing, gaps in knowledge remain concerning the specific cellular and molecular functions of ROS in wound healing. In this review, we highlight current knowledge of these functions, and discuss the potential future direction of new studies, and how these pathways may be targeted in future pre-clinical studies.
Spontaneous flows and quantum analogies in heterogeneous active nematic films
Authors: Houston Alexander J. H. , Mottram Nigel J.
Published: November 2024

Incorporating the inherent heterogeneity of living systems into models of active nematics is essential to provide a more realistic description of biological processes such as bacterial growth, cell dynamics and tissue development. Spontaneous flow of a confined active nematic is a fundamental feature of these systems, in which the role of heterogeneity has not yet been considered. We therefore determine the form of spontaneous flow transition for an active nematic film with heterogeneous activity, identifying a correspondence between the unstable director modes and solutions to Schrödinger’s equation. We consider both activity gradients and steps between regions of distinct activity, finding that such variations can change the signature properties of the flow. The threshold activity required for the transition can be raised or lowered, the fluid flux can be reduced or reversed and interfaces in activity induce shear flows. In a biological context fluid flux influences the spread of nutrients while shear flows affect the behaviour of rheotactic microswimmers and can cause the deformation of biofilms. All the effects we identify are found to be strongly dependent on not simply the types of activity present in the film but also on how they are distributed.
Enhancers and genome conformation provide complex transcriptional control of a herpesviral gene
Authors: Morgens David W , Gulyas Leah , Mao Xiaowen , Rivera-Madera Alejandro , Souza Annabelle S , Glaunsinger Britt A
Published: November 2024

Complex transcriptional control is a conserved feature of both eukaryotes and the viruses that infect them. Despite viral genomes being smaller and more gene dense than their hosts, we generally lack a sense of scope for the features governing the transcriptional output of individual viral genes. Even having a seemingly simple expression pattern does not imply that a gene’s underlying regulation is straightforward. Here, we illustrate this by combining high-density functional genomics, expression profiling, and viral-specific chromosome conformation capture to define with unprecedented detail the transcriptional regulation of a single gene from Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). We used as our model KSHV ORF68 – which has simple, early expression kinetics and is essential for viral genome packaging. We first identified seven cis-regulatory regions involved in ORF68 expression by densely tiling the ~154 kb KSHV genome with dCas9 fused to a transcriptional repressor domain (CRISPRi). A parallel Cas9 nuclease screen indicated that three of these regions act as promoters of genes that regulate ORF68. RNA expression profiling demonstrated that three more of these regions act by either repressing or enhancing other distal viral genes involved in ORF68 transcriptional regulation. Finally, we tracked how the 3D structure of the viral genome changes during its lifecycle, revealing that these enhancing regulatory elements are physically closer to their targets when active, and that disrupting some elements caused large-scale changes to the 3D genome. These data enable us to construct a complete model revealing that the mechanistic diversity of this essential regulatory circuit matches that of human genes.
Global atlas of predicted functional domains in Legionella pneumophila Dot/Icm translocated effectors
Authors: Patel Deepak T , Stogios Peter J , Jaroszewski Lukasz , Urbanus Malene L , Sedova Mayya , Semper Cameron , Le Cathy , Takkouche Abraham , Ichii Keita , Innabi Julie , Patel Dhruvin H , Ensminger Alexander W , Godzik Adam , Savchenko Alexei
Published: November 2024

Legionella pneumophila utilizes the Dot/Icm type IVB secretion system to deliver hundreds of effector proteins inside eukaryotic cells to ensure intracellular replication. Our understanding of the molecular functions of the largest pathogenic arsenal known to the bacterial world remains incomplete. By leveraging advancements in 3D protein structure prediction, we provide a comprehensive structural analysis of 368 L. pneumophila effectors, representing a global atlas of predicted functional domains summarized in a database (https://pathogens3d.org/legionella-pneumophila). Our analysis identified 157 types of diverse functional domains in 287 effectors, including 159 effectors with no prior functional annotations. Furthermore, we identified 35 cryptic domains in 30 effector models that have no similarity with experimentally structurally characterized proteins, thus, hinting at novel functionalities. Using this analysis, we demonstrate the activity of thirteen functional domains, including three cryptic domains, predicted in L. pneumophila effectors to cause growth defects in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae model system. This illustrates an emerging strategy of exploring synergies between predictions and targeted experimental approaches in elucidating novel effector activities involved in infection.
Fast bone regeneration using injectable fully biomimetic organoids with biomineralized and organic microenvironments
Authors: Zheng Runquan , Zhang Ning , Mao Songbo , Li Jiawei , Yan Xuesong , Zhang Guichun , Zhang Yongxian , Yue Xianhu
Published: November 2024

Fast bone regeneration using injectable fully biomimetic organoids. (A) The preparation of injectable organoids. (B) The COL1 staining of the organoids. (C) The evaluation of regenerated bone in rabbits at 4 weeks post-implantation.
Bioorthogonal oncolytic-virus nanovesicles combined bio-immunotherapy with CAR-T cells for solid tumors
Authors: Huang Guojun , He Yiran , Chen Xiaocong , Yin Ting , Ma Aiqing , Zhu Lizhen , Chen Liqi , Liang Ruijing , Zhang Pengfei , Pan Hong , Cai Lintao
Published: November 2024

OV/M nanovesicles infected azido-labelled tumor tissues specifically by bioorthogonal targeting and homologous recognition. This strategy reshaped the tumor microenvironment significantly, achieving combination bio-immunotherapy with CAR-T cells.
Generation of molecular conformations using generative adversarial neural networks
Authors: Xu Congsheng , Deng Xiaomei , Lu Yi , Yu Peiyuan
Published: November 2024

A deep learning model based on conditional generative adversarial networks and molecular motif graphs is proposed for efficient molecular conformation generation.
Mechanochemical ZIF-9 formation: in situ analysis and photocatalytic enhancement evaluation
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez Noelia , Prinz Carsten , Bienert Ralf , Ballesteros Menta , Ruiz Salvador A. Rabdel , Bhattacharya Biswajit , Emmerling Franziska
Published: November 2024

Efficient treatment of persistent pollutants in wastewater is crucial for sustainable water management and environmental protection.
Mechanism of oxygen reduction via chemical affinity in NiO/SiO2 interfaces irradiated with keV energy hydrogen and helium ions for heterostructure fabrication
Authors: Mery Mario , Gonzalez-Fuentes Claudio , Stanković Igor , Nuñez Jorge M. , Valdés Jorge E. , Aguirre Myriam H. , García Carlos
Published: November 2024

We show that H+ irradiation significantly enhances the reduction of antiferromagnetic NiO into ferromagnetic Ni due to hydrogen's strong chemical affinity for oxygen. The selective removal of oxygen enables the formation of a high-purity Ni layer.
Revolutionizing rheumatoid arthritis treatment with emerging cutaneous drug delivery systems: overcoming the challenges and paving the way forward
Authors: Priya Sakshi , Jain Kaushal Kailash , Daryani Jeevika , Desai Vaibhavi Meghraj , Kathuria Himanshu , Singhvi Gautam
Published: November 2024

Overview of the ongoing trends in the targeting strategies of drugs via topical and transdermal delivery and the futuristic approaches in the world of drug delivery for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Images are created with Biorender.com.
Designed construction of two new atom-precise three-dimensional and two-dimensional Ag12 cluster-assembled materials
Authors: Nakatani Riki , Sakai Jin , Saha Aishik , Kondo Ayumu , Tomioka Rina , Kawawaki Tokuhisa , Das Saikat , Negishi Yuichi
Published: November 2024

In this contribution, we present the reticular synthesis of two novel (3,6)-connected three-dimensional and two-dimensional silver cluster-assembled materials TUS 6 and TUS 7.
Tailoring the photoluminescence of AIE-type gold nanoclusters via biomineralization-inspired polymorphism
Authors: Mahata Sukhendu , Sahoo Satya Ranjan , Mukhopadhyay Arun , Kumari Komal , Rakshit Surajit , Goswami Nirmal
Published: November 2024

By mimicking biomineralization, this study introduces a facile approach to incorporate Au22SG18 nanoclusters within different polymorphs of CaCO3 and reveal that variations in the nanocluster photoluminescence are linked to the polymorph stability.
Tailoring electronic structure to enhance the ammonium-ion storage properties of VO2 by molybdenum doping toward highly efficient aqueous ammonium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Yifu , Zhou Zhenhua , Tan Xianfang , Liu Yanyan , Zhang Fangfang , Meng Changgong , Zhu Xiaoming
Published: November 2024

The electronic structure of tunnel-like VO2 is tailored by Mo doping (VO2-Mo). At 0.1 A g−1, VO2-Mo exhibits a specific capacity of 370 mA h g−1, surpassing that of VO2 (about 232 mA h g−1) and V-based materials reported for NH4+ storage.
Modulation of halogens in organic manganese halides for high-resolution and large-area flexible X-ray imaging
Authors: Sun Ying , Ma Qian , Zhao Dongheng , Gao Pan , Wang Qi , Guo Zeyu , Jiang Xiaomei
Published: November 2024

Modulation of halogens for achieving high performance scintillators for large-area flexible X-ray imaging applications.
Lattice engineering for enhancing the stability of CsPbI3/CsxFA1–xPbI3 quantum dots synthesized via a direct arrangement
Authors: Pratama Paundra Rizky , Pramata Azzah Dyah , Suenari Yuki , Agutaya Jonas Karl Christopher N. , Nagata Yu , Shinkai Takeshi , Inomata Yusuke , Hidayat Mas Irfan Purbawanto , Manna Biplab , Akaishi Yuji , Kida Tetsuya
Published: November 2024

This study synthesizes CsPbI3/CsxFA1–xPbI3 QDs using a spontaneous in situ injection method, enhancing stability and efficiency. Our findings highlight the influence of FA distribution and structural factors on the optical properties of the system.
Ligand-controlled Rh(i)-catalyzed intramolecular alkyne sila-cyclization: divergent catalysis and mechanistic studies
Authors: Zhu Wei-Ke , Si Jia-Wei , Peng Sui-Fang , Li Li , Ye Fei , Xu Zheng , Xu Li-Wen
Published: November 2024

A chemo-divergent Rh-catalyzed Si–C bond cleavage process was established for the synthesis of novel silacycles, wherein the cyclic silylmetal intermediates undergo highly efficient intramolecular sila-cyclization reactions under mild conditions.
Recent studies on protein kinase signaling inhibitors based on thiazoles: review to date
Authors: Ebaid Manal S. , Abdelsattar Ibrahim Hoda Atef , Kassem Asmaa F. , Sabt Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Due to the important role of protein kinases in protein phosphorylation within vital cellular processes, their abnormal function, especially in cancer situations, has underscored their importance in therapy.
A switchable magnetic resonance imaging nanoplatform for in situ microRNA imaging
Authors: Tan Yan , Wang Junren , Wan Qian , Yang Jinlong , Huang Jinkun , Zhou Zijia , Dong Haifeng , Zhang Xueji
Published: November 2024

A “large-small-large” size-switchable PAA-Fe3O4-DNA@PPP nanoplatform maintains a large size in the circulation system and discomposites into small-size in the TME condition and finally assembles into larger-size by miRNA.
Thermoelectrically polarized amorphous silica promotes sustainable carbon dioxide conversion into valuable chemical products
Authors: Arnau Marc , Teixidó Isabel , Sans Jordi , Turon Pau , Alemán Carlos
Published: November 2024

Electrically polarized amorphous silica (aSiO2) is demonstrated to be an efficient and viable metal-free heterogeneous catalyst for the conversion of CO2 into valuable chemical products.
Sludge-derived hydrochar as a potential electrocatalyst for improved CO2 reduction in microbial electrosynthesis
Authors: Thulluru Lakshmi Pathi , Dhanda Anil , Doki Manikanta M. , Ghangrekar Makarand M. , Chowdhury Shamik
Published: November 2024

The potential application of hydrochar derived from anaerobic and alum sludge as a cathode catalyst for CO2 bioreduction is being explored for the first time in microbial electrosynthesis.
An electrochemically engineered layer of γ-NiOOH with FeOOH on nickel foam for durable OER catalysis for anion exchange membrane water electrolysis
Authors: Narayanaru Sreekanth , Kuroki Hidenori , Tamaki Takanori , Anilkumar Gopinathan M. , Yamaguchi Takeo
Published: November 2024

A simple two-step electrochemical process for the synthesis of a catalyst with the synergistic combination of γ-NiOOH and FeOOH for efficient and durable oxygen evolution reaction in an alkaline medium.
Expanded polystyrene is not chemically degraded by mealworms
Authors: Tahroudi Zahra Mohammadizadeh , Flematti Gavin , Joshi Jitendra , Fritz Georg , Atkin Rob
Published: November 2024

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a widely used plastic material that poses significant environmental challenges due to its resistance to degradation.
The design of a non-centrosymmetric structure in sulfates by cation-induced symmetry breaking
Authors: Shang Yanran , Sha Hongyuan , Yang Dongling , Li Zhian , Wang Zujian , He Chao , Su Rongbing , Su Bin , Yang Xiaoming , Long Xifa
Published: November 2024

Cation induced symmetry breaking was achieved in sulfates with a new polar structure of Li2NH4CsSO4.
Variation in the intensity ratio at each wavelength point of the Si IV 1394/1403 Å lines
Authors: Zhou Yi’an , Yan Xiaoli , Xue Zhike , Yang Liheng , Wang Jincheng , Xu Zhe
Published: November 2024

Aims. This study aims to investigate the deviation of the intensity ratio of the Si IV 1394 Å and 1403 Å emission lines from the expected value of 2 in the optically thin regime, as has been observed in many recent studies.

Methods. We analyzed the integrated intensity ratio (R) and the wavelength-dependent ratio (r(Δλ)) in a small bifurcated eruption event observed by the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS).

Results. Despite the relatively complex line profiles, the intensity ratio, R, of Si IV lines mostly remains greater than 2 in the loops. The ratio r(Δλ) varies in the line core and wings, changing distinctly from 2.0 to 3.3 along the wavelength. At certain positions, the Si IV 1394 Å and 1403 Å lines exhibit different Doppler velocities.

Conclusions. When diagnosing the spectra of small active region events, not only the impact of opacity but also the influence of resonance scattering should be considered. We propose that the ratio r(Δλ) can serve as an indicator of the resonance scattering and opacity effect of the Si IV line.
Dwarf galaxies in the MATLAS survey: The satellite system of NGC 474 under scrutiny with MUSE
Authors: Müller Oliver , Marleau Francine R. , Heesters Nick , Duc Pierre-Alain , Pawlowski Marcel S. , Poulain Mélina , Habas Rebecca , Sola Elisabeth , Urbano Mathias , Smith Rory , Durrell Patrick , Emsellem Eric , Sánchez-Janssen Rubén , Lim Sungsoon , Paudel Sanjaya
Published: November 2024

A recent study of the distribution of dwarf galaxies in the MATLAS sample in galaxy groups revealed an excess of flattened satellite structures, reminiscent of the co-rotating planes of dwarf galaxies discovered in the local Universe. If confirmed, this lends credence to the plane-of-satellite problem and further challenges the standard model of hierarchical structure formation. However, with only photometric data and no confirmation of the satellite membership, the study could not address the plane-of-satellite problem in full detail. Here we present spectroscopic follow-up observations of one of the most promising planes-of-satellite candidates in the MATLAS survey, the satellite system of NGC 474. Employing MUSE at the VLT and full spectrum fitting, we studied 13 dwarf galaxy candidates and confirmed nine to be members of the field around NGC 474. Measuring the stellar populations of all observed galaxies, we find that the MATLAS dwarfs have lower metallicities than the Local Group dwarfs at a given luminosity. Two dwarf galaxies may form a pair of satellites based on their close projection and common velocity. Within the virial radius, we do not find a significant plane-of-satellites, however, there is a sub-population of six dwarf galaxies which seem to be anti-correlated in phase-space. Due to the low number of dwarf galaxies, this signal may arise by chance. With over 2000 dwarf galaxy candidates found in the MATLAS survey, this remains an intriguing data set to study the plane-of-satellites problem in a statistical fashion once more follow-up observations have been conducted.
In pursuit of precise Ca II H&K chromospheric surface fluxes
Authors: Rosas-Portilla F. , Jack D. , Schröder K.-P.
Published: November 2024

The emission lines of the Ca II H&K doublet present one of the most important channels of radiative cooling for the chromospheres of cool stars. Although most other line emissions (Mg II h&k and numerous iron lines) populate the far-UV and require a very competitive space-born observing time, the Ca II H&K lines in the optical UV are easily accessible by ground-based spectroscopy with relatively cheap instrumentation, and the observational data are plentiful. At the same time, in order to include realistic mechanical and magnetic heating, advanced chromospheric models now require radiative cooling losses in absolute terms and therefore call for a precise surface flux scale, which could be provided by matching a photospheric Ca II H&K line profile computed by photospheric models. However, a major obstacle here is the significant ambiguity in parameter space in the face of a very sensitive dependence of cool stellar optical UV surface fluxes on the effective temperature. Consequently, we have developed a rigorous method by which precise physical parameters, most notably the effective temperature, are first determined by ISPEC tools working on high signal-to-noise spectra and based on a suitable line list and reference continuum. However, crosstalk and navigation of multiple local chi-square minima (best solutions) in parameter space must be considered. Only with the optimal set of parameters is a single PHOENIX model calculated, which defines the spectral surface flux scale in the Ca II H&K line region. In this paper, we discuss the results of the absolute measurements of Ca II K line fluxes for 32 representative cool stars and the accuracy of this approach. Finally, we show a comparison of the Ca II K chromospheric fluxes with line widths, and a relation of chromospheric flux with effective temperature and gravity following the logarithmic form log FCa II = α′ log g + β′ log Teff + C′.
Dimming events of evolved stars due to clouds of molecular gas
Authors: Freytag Bernd , Höfner Susanne , Aringer Bernhard , Chiavassa Andrea
Published: November 2024

Context. The dramatic dimming episode of the red supergiant Betelgeuse in 2019 and 2020, caused by a partial darkening of the stellar disk, has highlighted gaps in the understanding of the evolution of massive stars.

Aims. We analyzed numerical models to investigate the processes behind the formation of dark surface patches and the associated reduction in the disk-integrated stellar light.

Methods. With the CO5BOLD code, we performed global 3D radiation-hydrodynamical simulations of evolved stars, including convection in the stellar interior, self-excited pulsations, and the resulting atmospheric dynamics with strong radiative shocks.

Results. We attribute dimming phenomena to obscuring clouds of cool gas in the lower atmosphere, forming according to three different scenarios. One process transports material outward in a strong shock, similar to what occurs in 1D simulations of radially pulsating asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars. However, in 3D models, deviations from spherical symmetry of the shock front can lead to further local density enhancements. Another mechanism is triggered by a large convective upflow structure, in combination with exceptionally strong radial pulsations. This induces Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities, causing plumes of material to be sent outward into the atmosphere. The third and rarest scenario involves large-amplitude convective fluctuations, leading to enhanced flows in deep downdrafts, which rebound and send material outward. In all cases, the dense gas above the stellar surface cools and darkens rapidly in visible light. AGB stars show localized dark patches regularly during intermediate phases of their large-amplitude pulsations, while more massive stars will only intermittently form such patches during luminosity minima.

Conclusions. The episodic levitation of dense gas clumps above the stellar surface, followed by the formation of complex molecules in the cooling gas and possibly dust grains at a later stage, can account for the dark patches and strong dimming events of supergiant stars such as Betelgeuse.
Experimental investigation of the temperature distribution in a BIPV façade
Authors: Andersen Nanna L. , Babin Markus , Thorsteinsson Sune
Published: November 2024

This study explores the thermal behavior of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) façades, focusing on the impact of different mounting configurations and colored interlayers. Two experimental setups are analyzed to investigate the operating temperatures of PV modules. The first setup consists of single-cell mini-modules including both colored and uncolored modules operating under ventilated and insulated conditions. The Sandia model is utilized to correlate cell temperatures and module backside temperatures, for which new empirical ΔT coefficients are determined for the different configurations and colored interlayers. The second setup consists of a BIPV container with a south-facing 16-module BIPV curtain wall façade. The modules are mounted with different air gap sizes to examine the effects of rear ventilation on module temperature. The results highlight the significant impact of mounting design and display the complicated nature of temperature distribution of BIPV systems. This research aims to contribute to a broader understanding of the influence that BIPV system integration in architecture has on module operating temperatures.