bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined effect of the pro-apoptotic rhTRAIL protein and HSV-1 virus in head and neck cancer cell lines
Authors: Bravo Perina Lucas , Faria Gomes Izabela Natalia , Alcantara Pelloso Ana Rúbia , Silva Viviane Aline Oliveira , Rebolho Batista Arantes Lidia Maria , Eliseo Melendez Matias
Published: October 2023

Knowledge on the molecular and clinical characteristics of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is vast. However, an effective therapy that increases the life expectancy of these patients, with a 5-year overall survival of 50%, is still unknown. Here we evaluated the combined effect of the pro-apoptotic protein rhTRAIL with the replication-competent wild-type HSV-1 virus in head and neck cancer cell lines. We observed a difference in the modulation profile of proteins related to apoptotic pathways in the studied cell lines. The HCB289 exhibited caspase-9 activation in the presence of the HSV-1 virus, while the UD-SCC-2 exhibited caspase-8 activation in the presence of rhTRAIL. Both cell lines exhibited PARP activation by combining rhTRAIL and HSV-1 virus treatment. Flow cytometry analysis exhibited greater induction of late apoptosis for the HCB289 and UD-SCC-2 after the combination treatment of the HSV-1 and rhTRAIL. However, the UD-SCC-2 also presented induction of late apoptosis by the presence of rhTRAIL in monotherapy. These data suggest an enhancement of the effect of the combination treatment of the rhTRAIL and the HSV-1 on reducing viability and induction of cell death.
Deficit irrigation strategies (PRD, SDI) and titanium nanoparticles improve water use efficiency and flower quality in greenhouse-grown cut roses
Authors: Alavi Seyed Mohammad , Kamali Maryam , Selahvarzi Yahya , Ansari Sana
Published: October 2023

This study explored the use of deficit irrigation techniques for water management in the hydroponic greenhouse cultivation of cut roses. A factorial experiment was conducted using three irrigation treatments: full irrigation (FI), partial root drying (PRD), and sustained deficit irrigation (SDI), and three doses of titanium dioxide nanoparticle foliar application (0, 15, and 30 ppm) as stress alleviation. Results showed that drought stress increased biochemical parameters such as the plants' proline and total phenol content. Compared to SDI treatment, the PRD treatments have an increase in flower number by 40%. The PRD strategy has positive effects on drought tolerance by increasing osmotic and elastic adjustment. Therefore, higher relative water content and longer root length in PRD treatments were observed. Thus, Biomass water use efficiency significantly increased in PRD treatments compared to others. In the PRD treatment, yield WUE increases by 26% and 61% compared to FI and SDI, respectively. The results showed TiO2-NPs positively affected mitigating and even improving some traits in drought stress conditions. These results suggest the superiority of the PRD strategy, which improves growth characteristics and water use efficiency, leading to increased sustainability, reduced environmental impact of greenhouse toxic wastewater, and total profitability of the greenhouse.
Temperature-dependent complex dielectric permittivity: a simple measurement strategy for liquid-phase samples
Authors: Baker-Fales Montgomery , Gutiérrez-Cano José D. , Catalá-Civera José M. , Vlachos Dionisios G.
Published: October 2023

Microwaves (MWs) are an emerging technology for intensified and electrified chemical manufacturing. MW heating is intimately linked to a material’s dielectric permittivity. These properties are highly dependent on temperature and pressure, but such datasets are not readily available due to the limited accessibility of the current methodologies to process-oriented laboratories. We introduce a simple, benchtop approach for producing these datasets near the 2.45 GHz industrial, medical, and scientific (ISM) frequency for liquid samples. By building upon a previously-demonstrated bireentrant microwave measurement cavity, we introduce larger pressure- and temperature-capable vials to deduce temperature-dependent permittivity quickly and accurately for vapor pressures up to 7 bar. Our methodology is validated using literature data, demonstrating broad applicability for materials with dielectric constant ε' ranging from 1 to 100. We provide new permittivity data for water, organic solvents, and hydrochloric acid solutions. Finally, we provide simple fits to our data for easy use.
Gene profiles and mutations in the development of cataracts in the ICR rat model of hereditary cataracts
Authors: Takashima Masaru , Taniguchi Kei , Nagaya Masaya , Yamamura Shunki , Takamura Yoshihiro , Inatani Masaru , Oki Masaya
Published: October 2023

Cataracts are opacifications of the lens that cause loss of visual acuity and ultimately of eyesight. Age-related cataract develops in most elderly people, but the mechanisms of cataract onset are incompletely understood. The Ihara Cataract Rat (ICR) is an animal model of hereditary cataracts showing cortical opacity that commonly develops prematurely. We identified putative mechanisms of cataract onset in the ICR rat model by measuring gene expression changes before and after cortical cataract development and conducting point mutation analysis. Genes differentially expressed between 4-week-old animals without cortical cataracts and 8–10-week-old animals with cortical cataracts were selected from microarray analysis. Three connections were identified by STRING analysis: (i) Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), including Col1a2, and Pik3r1. (ii) Lens homeostasis, including Aqp5, and Cpm. (iii) Lipid metabolism, including Scd1, Srebf1, and Pnpla3. Subsequently, mutation points were selected by comparing ICR rats with 12 different rats that do not develop cataracts. The apolipoprotein Apoc3 was mutated in ICR rats. Analyses of gene expression changes and point and mutations suggested that abnormalities in EMT or lipid metabolism could contribute to cataract development in ICR rats.
Host fecal DNA specific methylation signatures mark gut dysbiosis and inflammation in children affected by autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Cuomo Mariella , Coretti Lorena , Costabile Davide , Della Monica Rosa , De Riso Giulia , Buonaiuto Michela , Trio Federica , Bravaccio Carmela , Visconti Roberta , Berni Canani Roberto , Chiariotti Lorenzo , Lembo Francesca
Published: October 2023

The gut-brain axis involves several bidirectional pathway communications including microbiome, bacterial metabolites, neurotransmitters as well as immune system and is perturbed both in brain and in gastrointestinal disorders. Consistently, microbiota-gut-brain axis has been found altered in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We reasoned that such alterations occurring in ASD may impact both on methylation signatures of human host fecal DNA (HFD) and possibly on the types of human cells shed in the stools from intestinal tract giving origin to HFD. To test this hypothesis, we have performed whole genome methylation analysis of HFD from an age-restricted cohort of young children with ASD (N = 8) and healthy controls (N = 7). In the same cohort we have previously investigated the fecal microbiota composition and here we refined such analysis and searched for eventual associations with data derived from HFD methylome analysis. Our results showed that specific epigenetic signatures in human fecal DNA, especially at genes related to inflammation, associated with the disease. By applying methylation-based deconvolution algorithm, we found that the HFD derived mainly from immune cells and the relative abundance of those differed between patients and controls. Consistently, most of differentially methylated regions fitted with genes involved in inflammatory response. Interestingly, using Horvath epigenetic clock, we found that ASD affected children showed both epigenetic and microbiota age accelerated. We believe that the present unprecedented approach may be useful for the identification of the ASD associated HFD epigenetic signatures and may be potentially extended to other brain disorders and intestinal inflammatory diseases.
Preparation and characterization of a novel nanocomposite based on MnCr-layered double oxide and CoFe2O4 spinel ferrite for methyl orange adsorption
Authors: Rekaby M. , Abou-Aly A. I. , El-khatib M.
Published: October 2023

Herein, the adsorption of methyl orange (MO), a dangerous anionic dye, from an aqueous solution was investigated using a novel magnetic nanocomposite adsorbent. A nanocomposite entitled manganese chromium-layered double oxide/cobalt spinel ferrite, (MnCr)-LDO5wt.%/CoFe2O4, which links the interlayer structural characteristics of layered double oxides (LDOs) with the magnetic properties of spinel ferrites (SFs) was synthesized using the eco-friendly co-precipitation technique. Determination of structural parameters, crystallite size, and micro-strain was done using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to determine grain shape and size. Surface analysis was performed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to identify elements and oxidation states present in the prepared nanocomposite. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) was utilized to examine the magnetic characteristic. A comprehensive comparative study about the effectiveness and durability of CoFe2O4 and (MnCr)5wt.%/CoFe2O4 as nanoadsorbents for MO was conducted. Numerous variables, including contact time, MO concentration, adsorbent dosage, and pH were tested for their effects on the adsorption removal percentages. The findings showed that the maximum removal percentage was 86.1% for 25 ppm of MO was for 0.1 g/100 mL of (MnCr)-LDO5wt.%/CoFe2O4 at pH = 3. Investigations of isotherms and kinetics were conducted under batch conditions. The Langmuir isotherm matched the experimental data, for both nanoadsorbents, quite well due to the homogeneous distribution of active sites. Adsorption kinetics data were found to be compatible with intra-particle diffusion and pseudo-second order models for CoFe2O4 and (MnCr)5wt.%/CoFe2O4, respectively. A total of five adsorption–desorption cycles were performed to determine the prepared adsorbents’ recyclable nature.
Mood fluctuations shift cost–benefit tradeoffs in economic decisions
Authors: Heerema Roeland , Carrillo Pablo , Daunizeau Jean , Vinckier Fabien , Pessiglione Mathias
Published: October 2023

Mood effects on economic choice seem blatantly irrational, but might rise from mechanisms adapted to natural environments. We have proposed a theory in which mood helps adapting the behaviour to statistical dependencies in the environment, by biasing the expected value of foraging actions (which involve taking risk, spending time and making effort to get more reward). Here, we tested the existence of this mechanism, using an established mood induction paradigm combined with independent economic choices that opposed small but uncostly rewards to larger but costly rewards (involving either risk, delay or effort). To maximise the sensitivity to mood fluctuations, we developed an algorithm ensuring that choice options were continuously adjusted to subjective indifference points. In 102 participants tested twice, we found that during episodes of positive mood (relative to negative mood), choices were biased towards better rewarded but costly options, irrespective of the cost type. Computational modelling confirmed that the incidental mood effect was best explained by a bias added to the expected value of costly options, prior to decision making. This bias is therefore automatically applied even in artificial environments where it is not adaptive, allowing mood to spill over many sorts of decisions and generate irrational behaviours.
Efficacy of disinfectants on control and clinical bacteria strains at a zonal referral hospital in Mwanza, Tanzania: a cross sectional hospital-based study
Authors: Damiano Prisca , Silago Vitus , Nyawale Helmut A. , Mushi Martha F. , Mirambo Mariam M. , Kimaro Emmanuel E. , Mshana Stephen E.
Published: October 2023

Contaminated-hospital surfaces are an important source of pathogenic bacteria causing health-care associated infection (HCAIs). Monitoring the performance of disinfectants that are routinely used to clean hospital surfaces is critical for prevention and control of HCAIs. Nevertheless, the evaluation of the performance of disinfectants and their efficacy are not routinely practiced in most resource-limited countries. This study was designed to determine the efficacy of sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) and chloroxylenol against American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) and their respective multidrug resistant (MDR) strains causing neonatal sepsis at a zonal referral hospital in Mwanza, Tanzania. Four ATCC (n = 4) and their respective MDR strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were used. The suspension test was used with contact time of 1, 5 and 10 min with starting concentration of 105 bacterial colony forming unit per milliliters (CFU/mL). The log10 reduction value at specified bacteria-disinfectant contact time was used to assess the efficacy of 0.5%NaDCC and 4.8% chloroxylenol in-use and freshly prepared solutions. In-use 0.5%NaDCC demonstrated poor log reduction (˂ 5log) against MDR-clinical isolates. Freshly laboratory prepared 0.5% NaDCC had 100% microbial reduction at 1, 5 and 10 min of both ATCC and MDR strains up to 48 h after preparation when compared with freshly prepared 4.8% chloroxylenol (˂ 5log). Freshly, prepared 0.5% NaDCC should be used in health-care facilities for effective disinfection practices.
A global empirical study on how street networks facilitate driving longer distances
Authors: Maia Gabriel , Ponte Caio , Caminha Carlos , Furtado Lara S. , Melo Hygor P. M. , Furtado Vasco
Published: October 2023

We simulated over 200 cities worldwide to investigate how the street network affects vehicle routes. We demonstrate that there is a ubiquitous super-linear relationship between time and distance when optimal route are chosen. More precisely, the average speed will be higher for longer trips when compared to shorter trips, showing that the street network makes driving further faster. We attribute this phenomenon to the spatial arrangement of extensive street segments that eliminate deceleration points. These results underscore the importance for cities to consider the distribution of deceleration-free streets while mitigating any negative impact on sustainability. To ensure efficient transportation planning and engineering, innovative approaches are necessary to facilitate the flow of goods and services while adhering to sustainable mobility principles.
Insight into synthesis and characterisation of Ga0.9Fe2.1O4 superparamagnetic NPs for biomedical applications
Authors: Mesaros Amalia , Garzón Alba , Nasui Mircea , Bortnic Rares , Vasile Bogdan , Vasile Otilia , Iordache Florin , Leostean Cristian , Ciontea Lelia , Ros Josep , Pana Ovidiu
Published: October 2023

A Ga3+-substituted spinel magnetite nanoparticles (NPs) with the formula Ga0.9Fe2.1O4 were synthesized using both the one-pot solvothermal decomposition method (TD) and the microwave-assisted heating method (MW). Stable colloidal solutions were obtained by using triethylene glycol, which served as a NPs stabilizer and as a reaction medium in both methods. A narrow size distribution of NPs, below 10 nm, was achieved through selected nucleation and growth. The composition, structure, morphology, and magnetic properties of the NPs were investigated using FTIR spectroscopy, thermal analysis (TA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and magnetic measurements. NPs with the expected spinel structure were obtained in the case of the TD method, while the MW method produced, additionally, an important amount of gallium suboxide. The NPs, especially those prepared by TD, have superparamagnetic behavior with 2.02 μB/f.u. at 300 K and 3.06 μB/f.u. at 4.2 K. For the MW sample these values are 0.5 μB/f.u. and 0.6 μB/f.u. at 300 K and 4.2 K, respectively. The MW prepared sample contains a secondary phase and very small NPs which affects both the dimensional distribution and the magnetic behavior of NPs. The NPs were tested in vitro on amniotic mesenchymal stem cells. It was shown that the cellular metabolism is active in the presence of Ga0.9Fe2.1O4 NPs and preserves an active biocompatible cytoskeleton.
Protein citrullination and NET formation do not contribute to the pathology of A20/TNFAIP3 mutant mice
Authors: Van Damme Karel F. A. , Hertens Pieter , Martens Arne , Gilis Elisabeth , Priem Dario , Bruggeman Inge , Fossoul Amelie , Declercq Jozefien , Aegerter Helena , Wullaert Andy , Hochepied Tino , Hoste Esther , Vande Walle Lieselotte , Lamkanfi Mohamed , Savvides Savvas N. , Elewaut Dirk , Lambrecht Bart N. , van Loo Geert
Published: October 2023

A20 serves as a critical brake on NF-κB-dependent inflammation. In humans, polymorphisms in or near the TNFAIP3/A20 gene have been linked to various inflammatory disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Experimental gene knockout studies in mice have confirmed A20 as a susceptibility gene for SLE and RA. Here, we examine the significance of protein citrullination and NET formation in the autoimmune pathology of A20 mutant mice because autoimmunity directed against citrullinated antigens released by neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is central to the pathogenesis of RA and SLE. Furthermore, genetic variants impairing the deubiquitinase (DUB) function of A20 have been shown to contribute to autoimmune susceptibility. Our findings demonstrate that genetic disruption of A20 DUB function in A20 C103R knockin mice does not result in autoimmune pathology. Moreover, we show that PAD4 deficiency, which abolishes protein citrullination and NET formation, does not prevent the development of autoimmunity in A20 deficient mice. Collectively, these findings provide experimental confirmation that PAD4-dependent protein citrullination and NET formation do not serve as pathogenic mechanisms in the development of RA and SLE pathology in mice with A20 mutations.
Ruminal and feces metabolites associated with feed efficiency, water intake and methane emission in Nelore bulls
Authors: Malheiros Jessica Moraes , Correia Banny Silva Barbosa , Ceribeli Caroline , Bruscadin Jennifer Jessica , Diniz Wellison J. S. , Banerjee Priyanka , da Silva Vieira Dielson , Cardoso Tainã Figueiredo , Andrade Bruno Gabriel Nascimento , Petrini Juliana , Cardoso Daniel Rodrigues , Colnago Luiz Alberto , Bogusz Junior Stanislau , Mourão Gerson Barreto , Coutinho Luiz Lehmann , Palhares Julio Cesar Pascale , de Medeiros Sergio Raposo , Berndt Alexandre , de Almeida Regitano Luciana Correia
Published: October 2023

The objectives of this study were twofold: (1) to identify potential differences in the ruminal and fecal metabolite profiles of Nelore bulls under different nutritional interventions; and (2) to identify metabolites associated with cattle sustainability related-traits. We used different nutritional interventions in the feedlot: conventional (Conv; n = 26), and by-product (ByPr, n = 26). Thirty-eight ruminal fluid and 27 fecal metabolites were significantly different (P < 0.05) between the ByPr and Conv groups. Individual dry matter intake (DMI), residual feed intake (RFI), observed water intake (OWI), predicted water intake (WI), and residual water intake (RWI) phenotypes were lower (P < 0.05) in the Conv group, while the ByPr group exhibited lower methane emission (ME) (P < 0.05). Ruminal fluid dimethylamine was significantly associated (P < 0.05) with DMI, RFI, FE (feed efficiency), OWI and WI. Aspartate was associated (P < 0.05) with DMI, RFI, FE and WI. Fecal C22:1n9 was significantly associated with OWI and RWI (P < 0.05). Fatty acid C14:0 and hypoxanthine were significantly associated with DMI and RFI (P < 0.05). The results demonstrated that different nutritional interventions alter ruminal and fecal metabolites and provided new insights into the relationship of these metabolites with feed efficiency and water intake traits in Nelore bulls.
Comparison the effect of gelatin sponge and epinephrine-soaked gauze for hemostasis and pain control after hemorrhoidal surgery
Authors: Tsai Kun-Min , Kiu Kee-Thai , Yen Min-Hsuan , Yen Yu-Chun , Tam Ka-Wai , Chang Tung-Cheng
Published: October 2023

Post-operative pain and bleeding are the main complications following hemorrhoidal surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether an absorbable gelatin sponge is a superior hemostatic and analgesic agent compared to gauze soaked in epinephrine for post-hemorrhoidal surgery care. A retrospective study was conducted using data from a single institute. Data were collected from the electronic medical record database and outpatient patient questionnaire archive. The study encompassed 143 patients who received gauze soaked in epinephrine as the hemostatic agent after hemorrhoidal surgery and 148 patients who received an absorbable gelatin sponge. Most patients underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy, with 119 (83.2%) in epinephrine group and 118 (79.7%) in gelatin sponge group. The primary outcome measurements were postoperative pain score, oral analgesic dosage and complications. Patients in the absorbable gelatin sponge group reported significantly lower pain scores from 8 h after their hemorrhoidal surgery (postoperative day 0) through postoperative day 2. The average pain scores in the absorbable gelatin sponge group and gauze soaked in epinephrine group were 5.3 ± 3.2 and 6.2 ± 3.2 (p = 0.03) on postoperative 8 h; 4.7 ± 3.0 and 5.8 ± 2.9 (p ≤ 0.01) on postoperative day one; and 4.4 ± 2.8 and 5.3 ± 2.9 (p = 0.01) on postoperative day two, respectively. There were no significant differences in postoperative recovery or complication rates between the two groups. Our study revealed that absorbable gelatin sponges provide more effective pain relief to patients during the initial postoperative days after hemorrhoidal surgery, without any adverse impact on patient outcomes. Consequently, absorbable gelatin sponges are recommended as a replacement for gauze soaked in epinephrine following hemorrhoidal surgery.
Evaluating probiotic efficacy on weight loss in adults with overweight through a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial
Authors: Danielsson Pernilla , Putri Resthie R. , Marcus Claude , Hagman Emilia
Published: October 2023

The aim was to assess the weight-reducing effects of various doses of a probiotic dietary supplement and evaluate the tolerance and safety of increased dosage. A 3-month double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, followed by a 3-month open phase, was conducted at Karolinska Institutet, Sweden. The probiotic compound AB001 was tested at two doses (single and double) and compared with placebo during the blinded phase, and at triple dose during the open phase. Eighty-one volunteers, 18–45 years old, with overweight were included. The primary outcome was change in weight. Secondary outcomes were changes in; BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, blood lipids, glucose metabolism, liver enzymes, vitamin levels, and bowel habits. After 3 months (n = 81), no difference in weight, BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, or biomarkers were observed between the groups. Forty-five individuals continued with triple dose. The group with initial single dose decreased 0.93 ± 4.73 kg (p = 0.34), and the group with double dose initially decreased 1.93 ± 3.70 kg (p = 0.027). Reported changes in bowel habits and gastro-intestinal problems were similar for all doses. The results indicate that a long-term use of at least double dose AB001 may be more beneficial for weight loss than lower doses. However, in the double blinded phase, no differences between groups were found. The probiotic compound AB001 was well tolerated and can safely be used up to double dose for 90 days followed by triple dose for 90 days.

Trial registration: Clinicaltrial.gov NCT04897698, registered on 21 May 2021.
A novel non-invasive efficient photography-based technique for length measuring and individual identification of seahorses
Authors: Luzzatto Diego , Cussac Victor
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to develop a non-invasive and efficient method for measuring and identifying individual seahorses (Hippocampus patagonicus) in their natural habitat. A total of 976 seahorses were captured and photographed on a measuring board to obtain standard length (Ls) measurements. Head photographs were also taken for individual recognition, and a set of 100 seahorses were tagged with visible implant elastomers (VIE) to verify the correspondence between photograph recognition and the applied tags. The analysis showed no significant difference between left and right Ls measurements. The unique pattern of white dots on the heads served as individual fingerprints, consistent with VIE tagging. The recapture rate was 12%, with 89 individuals observed multiple times. Two distinct growth patterns were identified: males exhibited higher growth rates and a negative correlation with Ls compared to females. Released seahorses exhibited significantly different behaviors that were related to their sizes (Ls). Smaller seahorses tended to swim slowly towards nearby holdfasts, while larger seahorses escaped further or remained rigid before grasping a holdfast. The proposed methodology allowed for estimating individual seahorse growth rates, and the measurements were objective and precise. The results were obtained through quick and minimally invasive manipulation of the observed individuals.
Expanding diversity of bunyaviruses identified in mosquitoes
Authors: Orba Yasuko , Abu Yusuf Eshimutu , Chambaro Herman M. , Lundu Tapiwa , Muleya Walter , Eshita Yuki , Qiu Yongjin , Harima Hayato , Kajihara Masahiro , Mori-Kajihara Akina , Matsuno Keita , Sasaki Michihito , Hall William W. , Hang’ombe Bernard M. , Sawa Hirofumi
Published: October 2023

Mosquitoes interact with various organisms in the environment, and female mosquitoes in particular serve as vectors that directly transmit a number of microorganisms to humans and animals by blood-sucking. Comprehensive analysis of mosquito-borne viruses has led to the understanding of the existence of diverse viral species and to the identification of zoonotic arboviruses responsible for significant outbreaks and epidemics. In the present study on mosquito-borne bunyaviruses we employed a broad-spectrum RT-PCR approach and identified eighteen different additional species in the Phenuiviridae family and also a number of related but unclassified bunyaviruses in mosquitoes collected in Zambia. The entire RNA genome segments of the newly identified viruses were further analyzed by RNA sequencing with a ribonuclease R (RNase R) treatment to reduce host-derived RNAs and enrich viral RNAs, taking advantage of the dsRNA panhandle structure of the bunyavirus genome. All three or four genome segments were identified in eight bunyavirus species. Furthermore, L segments of three different novel viruses related to the Leishbunyaviridae were found in mosquitoes together with genes from the suspected host, the Crithidia parasite. In summary, our virus detection approach using a combination of broad-spectrum RT-PCR and RNA sequencing analysis with a simple virus enrichment method allowed the discovery of novel bunyaviruses. The diversity of bunyaviruses is still expanding and studies on this will allow a better understanding of the ecology of hematophagous mosquitoes.
Dual RNA-seq to catalogue host and parasite gene expression changes associated with virulence of T. annulata-transformed bovine leukocytes: towards identification of attenuation biomarkers
Authors: Elati Khawla , Tajeri Shahin , Obara Isaiah , Mhadhbi Moez , Zweygarth Erich , Darghouth Mohamed Aziz , Nijhof Ard Menzo
Published: October 2023

The apicomplexan parasiteTheileria annulatais transmitted byHyalommaticks and causes an acute lymphoproliferative disease that is invariably lethal in exotic cattle breeds. The unique ability of the schizont stage ofT. annulatato transform infected leukocytes to a cancer-like phenotype and the simplicity of culturing and passagingT. annulata-transformed cells in vitro have been explored for live vaccine development by attenuating the transformed cells using lengthy serial propagation in vitro. The empirical in vivo evaluation of attenuation required for each batch of long-term cultured cells is a major constraint since it is resource intensive and raises ethical issues regarding animal welfare. As yet, the molecular mechanisms underlying attenuation are not well understood. Characteristic changes in gene expression brought about by attenuation are likely to aid in the identification of novel biomarkers for attenuation. We set out to undertake a comparative transcriptome analysis of attenuated (passage 296) and virulent (passage 26) bovine leukocytes infected with a Tunisian strain ofT. annulatatermed Beja. RNA-seq was used to analyse gene expression profiles and the relative expression levels of selected genes were verified by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis. Among the 3538 T. annulatagenes analysed, 214 were significantly differentially expressed, of which 149 genes were up-regulated and 65 down-regulated. Functional annotation of differentially expressedT. annulatagenes revealed four broad categories of metabolic pathways: carbon metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. It is interesting to note that of the top 40 genes that showed altered expression, 13 were predicted to contain a signal peptide and/or at least one transmembrane domain, suggesting possible involvement in host-parasite interaction. Of the 16,514 bovine transcripts, 284 and 277 showed up-regulated and down-regulated expression, respectively. These were assigned to functional categories relevant to cell surface, tissue morphogenesis and regulation of cell adhesion, regulation of leucocyte, lymphocyte and cell activation. The genetic alterations acquired during attenuation that we have catalogued herein, as well as the accompanying in silico functional characterization, do not only improve understanding of the attenuation process, but can also be exploited by studies aimed at identifying attenuation biomarkers across different cell lines focusing on some host and parasite genes that have been highlighted in this study, such as bovine genes (CD69, ZNF618, LPAR3, and APOL3) and parasite genes such as TA03875.
China-US grain trade shapes the spatial genetic pattern of common ragweed in East China cities
Authors: Lu Siran , Luo Xiangyu , Wang Hongfang , Gentili Rodolfo , Citterio Sandra , Yang Jingyi , Jin Jing , Li Jianguang , Yang Jun
Published: October 2023

Common ragweed is an invasive alien species causing severe allergies in urban residents. Understanding its urban invasion pathways is crucial for effective control. However, knowledge is limited, with most studies focusing on agricultural and natural areas, and occurrence record-based studies exhibiting uncertainties. We address this gap through a study in East China cities, combining population genetics and occurrence records. Leaf samples from 37 urban common ragweed populations across 15 cities are collected. Genomic and chloroplast DNA extraction facilitate analysis of spatial genetic patterns and gene flows. Additionally, international grain trade data is examined to trace invasion sources. Results indicate spatial genetic patterns impacted by multiple introductions over time. We infer the modern grain trade between the United States and China as the primary invasion pathway. Also, cities act as transportation hubs and ports of grain importation might disperse common ragweed to urban areas. Invasive species control should account for cities as potential landing and spread hubs of common ragweed.
Structural and mechanistic insights into the inhibition of respiratory syncytial virus polymerase by a non-nucleoside inhibitor
Authors: Yu Xiaodi , Abeywickrema Pravien , Bonneux Brecht , Behera Ishani , Anson Brandon , Jacoby Edgar , Fung Amy , Adhikary Suraj , Bhaumik Anusarka , Carbajo Rodrigo J. , De Bruyn Suzanne , Miller Robyn , Patrick Aaron , Pham Quyen , Piassek Madison , Verheyen Nick , Shareef Afzaal , Sutto-Ortiz Priscila , Ysebaert Nina , Van Vlijmen Herman , Jonckers Tim H. M. , Herschke Florence , McLellan Jason S. , Decroly Etienne , Fearns Rachel , Grosse Sandrine , Roymans Dirk , Sharma Sujata , Rigaux Peter , Jin Zhinan
Published: October 2023

The respiratory syncytial virus polymerase complex, consisting of the polymerase (L) and phosphoprotein (P), catalyzes nucleotide polymerization, cap addition, and cap methylation via the RNA dependent RNA polymerase, capping, and Methyltransferase domains on L. Several nucleoside and non-nucleoside inhibitors have been reported to inhibit this polymerase complex, but the structural details of the exact inhibitor-polymerase interactions have been lacking. Here, we report a non-nucleoside inhibitor JNJ-8003 with sub-nanomolar inhibition potency in both antiviral and polymerase assays. Our 2.9 Å resolution cryo-EM structure revealed that JNJ-8003 binds to an induced-fit pocket on the capping domain, with multiple interactions consistent with its tight binding and resistance mutation profile. The minigenome and gel-based de novo RNA synthesis and primer extension assays demonstrated that JNJ-8003 inhibited nucleotide polymerization at the early stages of RNA transcription and replication. Our results support that JNJ-8003 binding modulates a functional interplay between the capping and RdRp domains, and this molecular insight could accelerate the design of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.
Coronavirus-like all-angle all-polarization broadband scatterer
Authors: Mikhailovskaya Anna , Vovchuk Dmytro , Grotov Konstantin , Kolchanov Denis S. , Dobrykh Dmitry , Ladutenko Konstantin , Bobrovs Vjačeslavs , Powell Alexander , Belov Pavel , Ginzburg Pavel
Published: October 2023

Creeping waves traveling around a volumetric electromagnetic scatterer provide a significant contribution to its radar cross-section. While quite a few efforts were devoted to suppressing creeping waves as a part of radar countermeasures, here we utilize specially engineered creeping waves to our advantage to create broadband, all-angle, and polarization scatterers. Metalized spherical surfaces, patterned with corona virus-like spikes are designed to provide a broadband constructive interference between the specular reflection and creeping waves, elevating the scattering cross-section. The demonstrated miniature corona scatterers utilize both resonant cascading phenomena and traveling wave interference to tailor electromagnetic interactions, outperforming a resonant dipole in terms of amplitude and bandwidth quite significantly. Our experimental samples are fabricated with an additive manufacturing technique, where a 3D-printed plastic skeleton is subsequently metalized. Micron-thick layers allow governing electromagnetic interactions as if the entire object was made of solid metal. Lightweight, all-angle, all-polarization, and broadband compact scatterers such as these, reported here, have numerous applications, including radar deception, electromagnetic beckoning, and many others.
Mn(ii)–hemoporfin-based metal–organic frameworks as a theranostic nanoplatform for MRI-guided sonodynamic therapy
Authors: Jiang Qin , Xu Hao , Zhang Wen , Wang Yue , Xia Jindong , Chen Zhigang
Published: October 2023

A Mn–hemoporfin-based MOF for MRI-guided sonodynamic tumor therapy.
Quantifying rigidity for thermally stable Cr3+ phosphors
Authors: Xu Shaojian , Feng Jiahao , Zhang Daidi , Zhang Biqian , Wen Dawei , Wu Mingmei , Li Junhao
Published: October 2023

The positive relation between the Vickers hardness of a material and its thermal stability as a Cr3+-doped phosphor, is revealed.
Urban-scale analysis of the seasonal trend of stabilized-Criegee intermediates and their effect on sulphate formation in the Greater Tokyo Area
Authors: Nakamura Yuya , Hata Hiroo , Tonokura Kenichi
Published: October 2023

We conducted an urban-scale analysis of the contribution of gas phase stabilized-Criegee intermediates (sCIs) to atmospheric sulphate aerosol formation across four seasons in the Greater Tokyo Area (GTA) using the regional chemical transport model.
Encouraging tribomechanical and biological responses of hydroxyapatite coatings reinforced by various levels of niobium pentoxide particles
Authors: Safavi Mir Saman , Khalil-Allafi Jafar , Motallebzadeh Amir , Volpini Cristina , Khalili Vida , Visai Livia
Published: October 2023

The development of surface technologies to obtain improved tribomechanical and biological characteristics of synthetic NiTi implants is critical.
Chiral mesostructured hydroxyapatite on 3D macroporous coralline scaffolds for enantio-selective osteogenesis
Authors: Zhou Chao , Liu Anqi , Li Ping , Ai Jing , Han Lu , Zhang Shaoyang , Chen Shuai , Ouyang Yuanming , Li Baojie , Che Shunai , Fan Cunyi
Published: October 2023

Chirality is ubiquitous in nature from the macroscopic to microscopic scale, and plays an important role in life.
Acylmonofluoromethylation of alkenes via dual NHC/photoredox catalysis
Authors: Tian Shichao , Chen Mingxi , Tang Yihan , Cheng Keguang , Tsui Gavin Chit , Wang Quande
Published: October 2023

We herein describe a three-component radical acylmonofluoromethylation of alkenes by cooperative NHC/photoredox catalysis to synthesize various monofluorinated alkyl aryl ketones.
Gemini ionic liquid-based surfactants: efficient synthesis, surface activity, and use as inducers for the fabrication of Cu2O nanoparticles
Authors: Roshdy Kyrillos , Mohamed Hany I. , Ahmed Mohamed H. , El-Dougdoug Wagdy I. , Abo-Riya Mohamed A.
Published: October 2023

Discovery of green and novel synthetic routes for nanoparticles (NPs) has drawn a lot of interest due to the distinct nano size and unusual features as well as applications of such particles.
Curcumin I-SMA nanomicelles as promising therapeutic tool to tackle bacterial infections
Authors: Virzì Nicola F. , Fallica Antonino N. , Romeo Giuseppe , Greish Khaled , Alghamdi Maha Ali , Patanè Salvatore , Mazzaglia Antonino , Shahid Mohammad , Pittalà Valeria
Published: October 2023

Renewed interest towards natural substances has been pushed by the widespread diffusion of antibiotic resistance.
ZnGa2−xAlxO4 (x = 0 ≤ 2) spinel for persistent light emission and HER/OER bi-functional catalysis
Authors: Parayil Reshmi Thekke , Gupta Santosh K. , Pal Manodip , Dutta Arnab , Tyagi Deepak , Sudarshan Kathi , Mohapatra Manoj
Published: October 2023

The unique PL and afterglow properties show the potential of ZnGa2O4 for energy and solid-state lighting applications. Solid solution of ZnGa2O4 and ZnAl2O4 showed promise as an efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst for both HER and OER.
Stable polyethylene glycol/biochar composite as a cost-effective photothermal absorber for 24 hours of steam and electricity cogeneration
Authors: Basuny Belal N. , Kospa Doaa A. , Ibrahim Amr Awad , Gebreil Ahmed
Published: October 2023

Seawater desalination powered by solar energy is the most environmentally and economical solution in responding to the global water and energy crisis.
Halogen bonding with carbon: directional assembly of non-derivatised aromatic carbon systems into robust supramolecular ladder architectures
Authors: Vainauskas Jogirdas , Borchers Tristan H. , Arhangelskis Mihails , McCormick McPherson Laura J. , Spilfogel Toni S. , Hamzehpoor Ehsan , Topić Filip , Coles Simon J. , Perepichka Dmytro F. , Barrett Christopher J. , Friščić Tomislav
Published: October 2023

Halogen bonds allow the directional assembly of robust supramolecular ladder architectures based on non-substituted carbon-only aromatic systems, providing an alternative to traditionally used non-directional π-stacking strategies.
QMrebind: incorporating quantum mechanical force field reparameterization at the ligand binding site for improved drug-target kinetics through milestoning simulations
Authors: Ojha Anupam Anand , Votapka Lane William , Amaro Rommie Elizabeth
Published: October 2023

Graphical representation of the partition of the phase-space of the receptor (grey)-ligand (yellow) complex into the MD region (further partitioned into Voronoi cells) and the BD region.
Discovery of a selective TC-PTP degrader for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Miao Jinmin , Dong Jiajun , Miao Yiming , Bai Yunpeng , Qu Zihan , Jassim Brenson A. , Huang Bo , Nguyen Quyen , Ma Yuan , Murray Allison A. , Li Jinyue , Low Philip S. , Zhang Zhong-Yin
Published: October 2023

We report the first, potent and selective PROTAC degrader for TC-PTP. The degrader enhances TC-PTP substrates’ phosphorylation levels, promotes antigen presentation in tumor, and enhances T-cell activation and CAR-T cell efficiency.
Bioorthogonal dissociative rhenium(i) photosensitisers for controlled immunogenic cell death induction
Authors: Xu Guang-Xi , Lee Lawrence Cho-Cheung , Leung Peter Kam-Keung , Mak Eunice Chiu-Lam , Shum Justin , Zhang Kenneth Yin , Zhao Qiang , Lo Kenneth Kam-Wing
Published: October 2023

Rhenium(i) complexes modified with a tetrazine carbamate group were designed as bioorthogonally dissociative photosensitisers for the controlled induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD) after treatment with trans-cyclooct-4-enol and light.
A green and ultrafast one-pot mechanochemical approach for efficient biocatalyst encapsulation in MOFs: insights from experiments and computation
Authors: Lam Phuc Khanh , Vo Trung Hieu , Chen Jing-Hui , Lin Shang-Wei , Kuo Chiao-Ling , Liao Jian-Jie , Chen Kuan-Yu , Huang Sen-Ruo , Li Dong , Chang Yun-Hsiang , Chen Hsuan-Yi , Hsieh Haw-Ting , Hsu Yu-An , Tsao Heng-Kwong , Yang Hsiao-Ching , Shieh Fa-Kuen
Published: October 2023

The ultra-fast and green encapsulation of biomolecules in ZIF-90 results in biocomposites with biological activity and a size-sheltering effect. This is achieved through a 10-second, one-pot mechanical synthesis, assisted by a small amount of buffer.
Hydrogen-bonding engineering in a 3D cyano-bridged double-perovskite ferroelastic greatly improves the phase-transition temperature
Authors: Li Meng-Zhen , Chen Zhao-Hong , Hu Sheng-Qian , Zhou Jun-Si , Ji Luan-Ying , Chen Xiao-Gang
Published: October 2023

Introducing a hydroxyl group on the ethylamine cation in three-dimensional cyano-bridged double perovskites effectively enhances cation–cation and cation–framework interactions, thus increasing the phase-transition temperature by 88 K.
Color-tunable persistent luminescence in molecular polymorphs of ionic co-crystals
Authors: Liu Yumin , Ma Yujuan , Fang Xiaoyu , Chen Tianhong , Nie Fei , Yan Dongpeng
Published: October 2023

Room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) with long afterglow from molecular crystals has been the subject of growing interest for researchers over the last decade due to its potential applications in human lives.
Increasing the wettability and reducing excess PbI2 using diamine hydrobromides with different lengths at the buried interface of the 3D perovskite film
Authors: Meng Ning , Huang Xiaofeng , Huo Xiaomin , Liang Zhenqun , Wei Dong , Zhao Suling , Qiao Bo , Liang Zhiqin , Xu Zheng , Song Dandan
Published: October 2023

Herein, by introducing diamine hydrobromide with different lengths on the PTAA layer, its wettability is greatly increased, leading to a more uniform perovskite film.
Does Movement Contextually Cue Attention During Novel Word Exposure? A Comparison of Preschool Children With Developmental Language Disorder and With Typical Language
Authors: Aljahlan Yara , Spaulding Tammie J.
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

This study investigated the attentional tendencies of preschool children with developmental language disorder (DLD) and their typical language (TL) peers during a word learning task to examine what visual properties of novel objects capture their attention.

Method:

Twelve children with DLD and 12 children with TL completed a novel name extension task in which they selected which of three visual characteristics of referent objects (i.e., movement, color, pattern) was relevant during novel word–novel referent pairings. No visual feature was more relevant than the others; consequently, there were no correct and no incorrect responses.

Results:

Children with DLD were systematically different from their TL peers in which visual features of objects they attended to during nonword–novel referent pairings in that they selected movement as the relevant feature of novel objects more often than TL children. There was also a significant negative correlation between chronological age and the propensity for movement selections.

Conclusions:

In most cases, word learning involves mapping the auditory signal onto visual information. Identifying what children with DLD naturally attend to when exposed to novel word–novel referent pairings is an important first step in order to better understand how to design effective and efficient word learning interventions with this population.
Leader‐following consensus and qualitative analysis of a new multi‐agent‐based epidemic model
Authors: Amiri Mehra Amir Hossein , Shafieirad Mohsen , Zamani Iman
Published: October 2023

This paper addresses an investigation into a leader‐following consensus problem in a novel multi‐agent‐based SIS (Susceptible‐Infected‐Susceptible) epidemic model. As infectious diseases are easily spread through travel, the model considers each agent to represent a city in an infected country, interacting with neighbouring cities towards achieving disease eradication through consensus. To make the model more realistic, the Effect Terms (ETs) arising from the effects of agent states on each other are also considered. The differential equations' positivity and existence of solutions are examined, and the proposed model's equilibrium points are obtained, with stability analysed using new local and global basic reproduction numbers defined in this study. Additionally, a leader‐following consensus control for the multi‐agent‐based system is proposed to drive each agent to follow a virtual leader agent. Finally, numerical simulations are included to validate the theoretical findings corresponding to the proposed scheme.
Direction‐of‐arrival estimation via coarray‐domain RELAX algorithm with source number estimation
Authors: Ahmad Fauzia , Amin Moeness G.
Published: October 2023

A modified RELAX algorithm based on iterative coarray‐domain beamforming for fast source direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation with fully augmentable sparse arrays is proposed. The authors exploit the deterministic centralised nature of the noise in the coarray domain and the Hermitian symmetry of the spatial autocorrelation function to efficiently incorporate source number estimation within the iterative framework. In doing so, the proposed algorithm allows low‐complexity, fast DOA estimation of more sources than sensors, without resorting to computationally expensive implementations of source number estimation using information theoretic criteria. Three variants of the proposed algorithm are presented, each differing in terms of the specific method employed for source number estimation. Extensive simulations are performed with a minimum redundancy array to compare and contrast the performance of the three variants in terms of their accuracy in estimating the number of sources in the field‐of‐view of the array. The results demonstrate that the modified RELAX algorithm can provide accurate estimates of the number and directions of sources, especially when the number of uncorrelated sources is equal to or higher than the number of sensors.
Nouveau nucléaire : nous avons besoin des femmes !
Authors: Poli Isabelle , Bernard Cécile , Birac Anne-Marie , Galichet Emmanuelle
Published: October 2023

Depuis 30 ans, Women in Nuclear promeut la mixité au sein de la filière nucléaire. Avec le lancement du grand chantier EPR 2 et les autres grands programmes déjà en cours, le temps est venu de féminiser massivement le secteur qui ne compte aujourd’hui que 24 % de femmes. Une question de parité mais aussi de performance globale.