bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acquisition and transmission of Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) by Xiphinema index and Xiphinema italiae (Longidoridae)
Authors: M’rabet Samaali B. , Loulou A. , MougouHamdane A. , Kallel S.
Published: March 2024

Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) is one of the most severe virus diseases of grapevines, causing fanleaf degeneration that is transmitted by Xiphinema index. This paper aims to isolate Xiphinema species from Tunisian vineyard soil samples and assess their ability to acquire and transmit GFLV under natural and controlled conditions. Based on morphological and morphometric analyses, Tunisian dagger nematodes were identified as X. index and Xiphinema italiae. These results were confirmed with molecular identification tools using species-specific polymerase chain reaction primers. The total RNA of GFLV was extracted from specimens of Xiphinema and amplified based on real-time polymerase chain reaction using virus-specific primers. Our results showed that X. index could acquire and transmit the viral particles of GFLV. This nepovirus was not detected in X. italiae, under natural conditions; however, under controlled conditions, this nematode was able to successfully acquire and transmit the viral particles of GFLV.
Magnetic Field Signatures of Craters on Mars
Authors: Mittelholz A. , Steele S. C. , Fu R. R. , Johnson C. L. , Lillis R. J. , Stucky de Quay G.
Published: March 2024

Craters on Mars are a window into Mars' past and the time they were emplaced. Because the crust is heated and shocked during impact, craters can demagnetize or magnetize the crust depending on the presence or absence of a dynamo field at the time of impact. This concept has been used to constrain dynamo timing. Here, we investigate magnetic anomalies associated with craters larger than 150 km. We find that most of those craters, independent of age, exhibit demagnetization signatures in the form of a central magnetic low. We demonstrate a statistically significant association between such signatures and craters, and hypothesize that the excavation of strongly magnetic crustal material may be an important contribution to the dominance of demagnetized craters. This finding implies that the simple presence or absence of crater demagnetization signatures is not a reliable indicator for the activity of the Martian dynamo during or after crater formation.
Simulating the Ring Current Proton Dynamics in Response to Radial Diffusion by Ultra‐Low‐Frequency (ULF) Waves
Authors: Ma Longxing , Yu Yiqun , Liu Wenlong , Cao Jinbin , Miyoshi Yoshizumi
Published: March 2024

Radial diffusion (RD) induced by ULF waves can contribute to particle acceleration and scattering. Past global simulations that incorporate RD often use dipole magnetic fields, which could not realistically reveal the role of RD. To better understand the effects of RD and identify whether a background magnetic field model matters in understanding the ring current dynamics in response to RD, we simulate a storm event with different magnetic configurations using a global kinetic ring current model. Results indicate that RD can effectively diffuse protons of hundreds of keV to inner regions (L ∼ 3.5), especially in recovery phase. Comparisons with in‐situ observations demonstrate that simulations with TS05 overall capture both the intensity and variations of proton fluxes with the aid of RD, whereas that with a dipole field significantly overestimates low‐L region fluxes. This study implies adopting realistic magnetic fields is important for correctly interpreting the role of RD.
P‐Wave Velocities Across the α → β Quartz Transition at Lower Continental Crust Pressure and Temperature Conditions
Authors: Moarefvand Arefeh , Gasc Julien , Deldicque Damien , Labrousse Loic , Schubnel Alexandre
Published: March 2024

The quartz α → β transition is a displacive phase transition associated with a significant change in elastic properties. However, the elastic properties of quartz at high‐pressure and temperature remain poorly constrained experimentally, particularly within the field of β‐quartz. Here, we conducted an experimental study on the quartz α → β transition during which P‐wave velocities were measured in‐situ at pressure (from 0.5 to 1.25 GPa) and temperature (200–900°C) conditions of the continental lower crust. Experiments were carried out on samples of microcrystalline material (grain size of 3–6 μm) and single‐crystals. In all these, the transition was observed as a minimum in P‐wave velocities, preceded by an important softening while P‐wave velocities measured in the β‐quartz field were systematically lower than that predicted by thermodynamic databases. Additional experiments during which acoustic emission (AE) were monitored showed no significant peak of AEs near or at the transition temperature. Microstructural analysis nevertheless revealed the importance of microcracking while Electron Back‐Scatter Diffraction (EBSD) imaging on polycrystalline samples revealed a prevalence of Dauphiné twinning in samples that underwent the transition. Our results suggest that the velocity change due to the transition known at low pressure might be less important at higher pressure, implying a change in the relative compressibilities of α and β quartz. If true, the velocity changes related to the α → β quartz transition at lower crustal conditions might be lower than that expected in thickened continental crust.
A double-stranded RNA binding protein enhances drought resistance via protein phase separation in rice
Authors: Wang Huaijun , Ye Tiantian , Guo Zilong , Yao Yilong , Tu Haifu , Wang Pengfei , Zhang Yu , Wang Yao , Li Xiaokai , Li Bingchen , Xiong Haiyan , Lai Xuelei , Xiong Lizhong
Published: March 2024

Drought stress significantly impacts global rice production, highlighting the critical need to understand the genetic basis of drought resistance in rice. Here, through a genome-wide association study, we reveal that natural variations in DROUGHT RESISTANCE GENE 9 (DRG9), encoding a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) binding protein, contribute to drought resistance. Under drought stress, DRG9 condenses into stress granules (SGs) through liquid-liquid phase separation via a crucial α-helix. DRG9 recruits the mRNAs of OsNCED4, a key gene for the biosynthesis of abscisic acid, into SGs and protects them from degradation. In drought-resistant DRG9 allele, natural variations in the coding region, causing an amino acid substitution (G267F) within the zinc finger domain, increase DRG9’s binding ability to OsNCED4 mRNA and enhance drought resistance. Introgression of the drought-resistant DRG9 allele into the elite rice Huanghuazhan significantly improves its drought resistance. Thus, our study underscores the role of a dsRNA-binding protein in drought resistance and its promising value in breeding drought-resistant rice.
Predictive evolutionary modelling for influenza virus by site-based dynamics of mutations
Authors: Lou Jingzhi , Liang Weiwen , Cao Lirong , Hu Inchi , Zhao Shi , Chen Zigui , Chan Renee Wan Yi , Cheung Peter Pak Hang , Zheng Hong , Liu Caiqi , Li Qi , Chong Marc Ka Chun , Zhang Yexian , Yeoh Eng-kiong , Chan Paul Kay-Sheung , Zee Benny Chung Ying , Mok Chris Ka Pun , Wang Maggie Haitian
Published: March 2024

Influenza virus continuously evolves to escape human adaptive immunity and generates seasonal epidemics. Therefore, influenza vaccine strains need to be updated annually for the upcoming flu season to ensure vaccine effectiveness. We develop a computational approach, beth-1, to forecast virus evolution and select representative virus for influenza vaccine. The method involves modelling site-wise mutation fitness. Informed by virus genome and population sero-positivity, we calibrate transition time of mutations and project the fitness landscape to future time, based on which beth-1 selects the optimal vaccine strain. In season-to-season prediction in historical data for the influenza A pH1N1 and H3N2 viruses, beth-1 demonstrates superior genetic matching compared to existing approaches. In prospective validations, the model shows superior or non-inferior genetic matching and neutralization against circulating virus in mice immunization experiments compared to the current vaccine. The method offers a promising and ready-to-use tool to facilitate vaccine strain selection for the influenza virus through capturing heterogeneous evolutionary dynamics over genome space-time and linking molecular variants to population immune response.
Direct visualization of stacking-selective self-intercalation in epitaxial Nb1+xSe2 films
Authors: Wang Hongguang , Zhang Jiawei , Shen Chen , Yang Chao , Küster Kathrin , Deuschle Julia , Starke Ulrich , Zhang Hongbin , Isobe Masahiko , Huang Dennis , van Aken Peter A. , Takagi Hidenori
Published: March 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) materials offer rich tuning opportunities generated by different stacking configurations or by introducing intercalants into the vdW gaps. Current knowledge of the interplay between stacking polytypes and intercalation often relies on macroscopically averaged probes, which fail to pinpoint the exact atomic position and chemical state of the intercalants in real space. Here, by using atomic-resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy in a scanning transmission electron microscope, we visualize a stacking-selective self-intercalation phenomenon in thin films of the transition-metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) Nb1+xSe2. We observe robust contrasts between 180°-stacked layers with large amounts of Nb intercalants inside their vdW gaps and 0°-stacked layers with little detectable intercalants inside their vdW gaps, coexisting on the atomic scale. First-principles calculations suggest that the films lie at the boundary of a phase transition from 0° to 180° stacking when the intercalant concentration x exceeds ~0.25, which we could attain in our films due to specific kinetic pathways. Our results offer not only renewed mechanistic insights into stacking and intercalation, but also open up prospects for engineering the functionality of TMDCs via stacking-selective self-intercalation.
Facile Cu–MOF-derived Co3O4 mesoporous-structure as a cooperative catalyst for the reduction nitroarenes and dyes
Authors: Malmir Masoume , Heravi Majid M. , Shafiei Toran Poshti Elham
Published: March 2024

The present study describes the environmentally friendly and cost-effective synthesis of magnetic, mesoporous structure-Co3O4 nanoparticles (m-Co3O4) utilizing almond peel as a biotemplate. This straightforward method yields a material with high surface area, as confirmed by various characterization techniques. Subsequently, the utilization of m-Co3O4, graphene oxide (GO), Cu(II)acetate (Cu), and asparagine enabled the successful synthesis of a novel magnetic MOF, namely GO–Cu–ASP–m-Co3O4 MOF. This catalyst revealed remarkable stability that could be easily recovered using a magnet for consecutive use without any significant decline in activity for eight cycles in nitro compound reduction and organic dye degradation reactions. Consequently, GO–Cu–ASP-m-Co3O4 MOF holds immense potential as a catalyst for reduction reactions, particularly in the production of valuable amines with high industrial value, as well as for the elimination of toxic-water pollutants such as organic dyes.
High-resolution co-seismic fault offsets of the 2023 Türkiye earthquake ruptures using satellite imagery
Authors: Provost Floriane , Karabacak Volkan , Malet Jean-Philippe , Van der Woerd Jérôme , Meghraoui Mustapha , Masson Frédéric , Ferry Matthieu , Michéa David , Pointal Elisabeth
Published: March 2024

On February 6, 2023, southern Türkiye was struck by two large earthquakes at 01:17 UTC (Mw=7.8, Pazarcık, Kahramanmaraş) and 10:30 UTC (Mw = 7.6, Elbistan, Kahramanmaraş), causing severe damage at the complex junction of the Dead Sea Fault (DSF), the Cyprus Arc and the East Anatolian Fault Zone (EAFZ). The ruptures propagated along several known strands of the southwestern termination of the EAFZ, the main Pazarcık and Karasu valley faults, and the Çardak-Sürgü fault. Here we present the high-resolution mapping of the entire coseismic surface rupture and an estimate of the rupture width, total and on-fault offset, and diffuse deformation obtained a few days to three months after the two mainshocks. The mapping is derived from image correlation of Sentinel-2 optical satellite imagery and validated with offset measurements collected on the ground. We find that the ruptures extend over lengths of 310 km and 140 km for the Mw 7.8 and Mw 7.6 mainshocks, respectively. The maximum offsets reach 7.5 ± 0.8 m and 8.7 ± 0.8 m near the epicenters of the Mw 7.8 and Mw 7.6 events, respectively. We propose a segmentation of the two ruptures based on these observations, and further discuss the location of the potential supershear rupture. The use of optical image correlation, complemented by field investigations along earthquake faults, provides new insights into seismic hazard assessment.
Investment by maternal grandmother buffers children against the impacts of adverse early life experiences
Authors: Helle Samuli , Tanskanen Antti O. , Coall David A. , Perry Gretchen , Daly Martin , Danielsbacka Mirkka
Published: March 2024

Exogenous shocks during sensitive periods of development can have long-lasting effects on adult phenotypes including behavior, survival and reproduction. Cooperative breeding, such as grandparental care in humans and some other mammal species, is believed to have evolved partly in order to cope with challenging environments. Nevertheless, studies addressing whether grandparental investment can buffer the development of grandchildren from multiple adversities early in life are few and have provided mixed results, perhaps owing to difficulties drawing causal inferences from non-experimental data. Using population-based data of English and Welsh adolescents (sample size ranging from 817 to 1197), we examined whether grandparental investment reduces emotional and behavioral problems in children resulting from facing multiple adverse early life experiences (AELEs), by employing instrumental variable regression in a Bayesian structural equation modeling framework to better justify causal interpretations of the results. When children had faced multiple AELEs, the investment of maternal grandmothers reduced, but could not fully erase, their emotional and behavioral problems. No such result was observed in the case of the investment of other grandparent types. These findings indicate that in adverse environmental conditions the investment of maternal grandmothers can improve child wellbeing.
A number sense as an emergent property of the manipulating brain
Authors: Kondapaneni Neehar , Perona Pietro
Published: March 2024

The ability to understand and manipulate numbers and quantities emerges during childhood, but the mechanism through which humans acquire and develop this ability is still poorly understood. We explore this question through a model, assuming that the learner is able to pick up and place small objects from, and to, locations of its choosing, and will spontaneously engage in such undirected manipulation. We further assume that the learner’s visual system will monitor the changing arrangements of objects in the scene and will learn to predict the effects of each action by comparing perception with a supervisory signal from the motor system. We model perception using standard deep networks for feature extraction and classification. Our main finding is that, from learning the task of action prediction, an unexpected image representation emerges exhibiting regularities that foreshadow the perception and representation of numbers and quantity. These include distinct categories for zero and the first few natural numbers, a strict ordering of the numbers, and a one-dimensional signal that correlates with numerical quantity. As a result, our model acquires the ability to estimatenumerosity, i.e. the number of objects in the scene, as well assubitization, i.e. the ability to recognize at a glance the exact number of objects in small scenes. Remarkably, subitization and numerosity estimation extrapolate to scenes containing many objects, far beyond the three objects used during training. We conclude that important aspects of a facility with numbers and quantities may be learned with supervision from a simple pre-training task. Our observations suggest that cross-modal learning is a powerful learning mechanism that may be harnessed in artificial intelligence.
Evaluation of indicators of acute emotional states in dogs
Authors: Flint Hannah E. , Weller Jennifer E. , Parry-Howells Nia , Ellerby Zack W. , McKay Stephanie L. , King Tammie
Published: March 2024

A complete assessment of animal welfare requires not just an understanding of negative emotional states, such as fear and anxiety, but also of positive states, such as calmness and happiness. However, few studies have identified accurate and reliable indicators of positive emotional states in dogs. This study aimed to identify parameters that may serve as indicators of short-term emotional states in dogs. Using a cross-over design, 60 dogs living at a research facility were exposed to six different 10-min scenarios expected to elicit responses varying in emotional valence and arousal. A range of behavioural and physiological parameters were collected and their relationship to anticipated emotional valence and arousal was analysed using linear and logistic mixed models. Cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, heart rate variability, panting, whining, and body shake all demonstrated significant differences based on arousal levels, but only within negative valence scenarios. Scores from a qualitative behavioural assessment (QBA) were associated with both emotional valence and arousal and were considered the best indicator of positive valence. Activity, ear temperature, and sitting were associated with positive high arousal, although this may have been influenced by differing levels of movement induced during these scenarios. Meanwhile, heart rate, secretory immunoglobulin A, standing and lying all showed similar changes associated with arousal for both positive and negative valence scenarios. This study provides a critical first step towards identifying evidence-based indicators of short-term emotional states in dogs, while highlighting considerations that should be made when employing these parameters, including the influence of coder bias, food provision, exercise, and external temperature. Overall, it is recommended future dog emotion and welfare research use a combination of parameters including indicators of both emotional valence and arousal.
Identification of a novel LDLR p.Glu179Met variant in Thai families with familial hypercholesterolemia and response to treatment with PCSK9 inhibitor
Authors: Pussadhamma Burabha , Wongvipaporn Chaiyasith , Wutthimanop Atthakorn , Nuinoon Manit , Porntadavity Sureerut , Jeenduang Nutjaree
Published: March 2024

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disease characterized by elevated LDL-C levels. In this study, two FH probands and 9 family members from two families from northeastern Thailand were tested for LDLR, APOB, and PCSK9 variants by whole-exome sequencing, PCR-HRM, and Sanger sequencing. In silico analysis of LDLR was performed to analyse its structure‒function relationship. A novel variant of LDLR (c.535_536delinsAT, p.Glu179Met) was detected in proband 1 and proband 2 in homozygous and heterozygous forms, respectively. A total of 6 of 9 family members were heterozygous for LDLR p.Glu179Met variant. Compared with proband 2, proband 1 had higher baseline TC and LDL-C levels and a poorer response to lipid-lowering therapy combined with a PCSK9 inhibitor. Multiple sequence alignment showed that LDLR p.Glu179Met was located in a fully conserved region. Homology modelling demonstrated that LDLR p.Glu179Met variant lost one H-bond and a negative charge. In conclusion, a novel LDLR p.Glu179Met variant was identified for the first time in Thai FH patients. This was also the first report of homozygous FH patient in Thailand. Our findings may expand the knowledge of FH-causing variants in Thai population, which is beneficial for cascade screening, genetic counselling, and FH management to prevent coronary artery disease.
The effect of cognitive reappraisal and early-life maternal care on neuroendocrine stress responses
Authors: Bentele Ulrike U. , Klink Elea S. C. , Benz Annika B. E. , Meier Maria , Gaertner Raphaela J. , Denk Bernadette F. , Dimitroff Stephanie J. , Unternaehrer Eva , Pruessner Jens C.
Published: March 2024

Early-life adversity (ELA) is related to profound dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, reflected in both, blunted or exaggerated cortisol stress responses in adulthood. Emotion regulation strategies such as cognitive reappraisal might contribute to this inconsistent finding. Here, we investigate an interaction of early-life maternal care (MC), where low MC represents a form of ELA, and instructed emotion regulation on cortisol responses to acute stress. Ninety-three healthy young women were assigned to a low (n = 33) or high (n = 60) MC group, based on self-reported early-life MC. In the laboratory, participants received regulation instructions, asking to cognitively reappraise (reappraisal group, n = 45) or to focus on senses (control group, n = 48) during subsequent stress exposure, induced by the Trier Social Stress Test. Salivary cortisol and subjective stress levels were measured repeatedly throughout the experiment. Multilevel model analyses confirmed a MC by emotion regulation interaction effect on cortisol trajectories, while controlling for hormonal status. Individuals with low MC in the control compared with the reappraisal group showed increased cortisol responses; individuals with high MC did not differ. These results highlight the significance of emotion regulation for HPA axis stress regulation following ELA exposure. They provide methodological and health implications, indicating emotion regulation as a promising target of treatment interventions for individuals with a history of ELA.
Single nuclei transcriptomics of the in situ human limbal stem cell niche
Authors: Davidson Kathryn C. , Sung Minkyung , Brown Karl D. , Contet Julian , Belluschi Serena , Hamel Regan , Moreno-Moral Aida , dos Santos Rodrigo L. , Gough Julian , Polo Jose M. , Daniell Mark , Parfitt Geraint J.
Published: March 2024

The corneal epithelium acts as a barrier to pathogens entering the eye; corneal epithelial cells are continuously renewed by uni-potent, quiescent limbal stem cells (LSCs) located at the limbus, where the cornea transitions to conjunctiva. There has yet to be a consensus on LSC markers and their transcriptome profile is not fully understood, which may be due to using cadaveric tissue without an intact stem cell niche for transcriptomics. In this study, we addressed this problem by using single nuclei RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) on healthy human limbal tissue that was immediately snap-frozen after excision from patients undergoing cataract surgery. We identified the quiescent LSCs as a sub-population of corneal epithelial cells with a low level of total transcript counts. Moreover, TP63, KRT15, CXCL14, and ITGβ4 were found to be highly expressed in LSCs and transiently amplifying cells (TACs), which constitute the corneal epithelial progenitor populations at the limbus. The surface markers SLC6A6 and ITGβ4 could be used to enrich human corneal epithelial cell progenitors, which were also found to specifically express the putative limbal progenitor cell markers MMP10 and AC093496.1.
MCU-independent Ca2+ uptake mediates mitochondrial Ca2+ overload and necrotic cell death in a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Bround Michael J. , Abay Eaman , Huo Jiuzhou , Havens Julian R. , York Allen J. , Bers Donald M. , Molkentin Jeffery D.
Published: March 2024

Mitochondrial Ca2+ overload can mediate mitochondria-dependent cell death, a major contributor to several human diseases. Indeed, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (MD) is driven by dysfunctional Ca2+ influx across the sarcolemma that causes mitochondrial Ca2+ overload, organelle rupture, and muscle necrosis. The mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) complex is the primary characterized mechanism for acute mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. One strategy for preventing mitochondrial Ca2+ overload is deletion of the Mcu gene, the pore forming subunit of the MCU-complex. Conversely, enhanced MCU-complex Ca2+ uptake is achieved by deleting the inhibitory Mcub gene. Here we show that myofiber-specific Mcu deletion was not protective in a mouse model of Duchenne MD. Specifically, Mcu gene deletion did not reduce muscle histopathology, did not improve muscle function, and did not prevent mitochondrial Ca2+ overload. Moreover, myofiber specific Mcub gene deletion did not augment Duchenne MD muscle pathology. Interestingly, we observed MCU-independent Ca2+ uptake in dystrophic mitochondria that was sufficient to drive mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) activation and skeletal muscle necrosis, and this same type of activity was observed in heart, liver, and brain mitochondria. These results demonstrate that mitochondria possess an uncharacterized MCU-independent Ca2+ uptake mechanism that is sufficient to drive MPTP-dependent necrosis in MD in vivo.
Experimental realization of entangled coherent states in two-dimensional harmonic oscillators of a trapped ion
Authors: Jeon Honggi , Kang Jiyong , Kim Jaeun , Choi Wonhyeong , Kim Kyunghye , Kim Taehyun
Published: March 2024

Entangled coherent states play pivotal roles in various fields such as quantum computation, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. We experimentally demonstrate the generation of entangled coherent states with the two-dimensional motion of a trapped ion system. Using Raman transitions with appropriate detunings, we simultaneously drive the red and blue sidebands of the two transverse axes of a single trapped ion and observe multi-periodic entanglement and disentanglement of its spin and two-dimensional motion. Then, by measuring the spin state, we herald entangled coherent states of the transverse motions of the trapped ion and observe the corresponding modulation in the parity of the phonon distribution of one of the harmonic oscillators. Lastly, we trap two ions in a linear chain and realize Mølmer–Sørensen gate using two-dimensional motion.
Polyphenol consumption and Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease risk in adults
Authors: Rahimlou Mehran , Baghdadi Ghazal , Khodi Ali , Rahimi Zahra , Saki Nader , Banaei Jahromi Nasrin , Cheraghian Bahman , Tavasolian Ronia , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad
Published: March 2024

In this cross-sectional investigation, the primary objective was to explore the correlation between the consumption of polyphenols and the likelihood of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the adult population participating in the Hoveyzeh cohort. Data from the Hoveyzeh cohort study, part of the Persian Cohort Study, involving 10,009 adults aged 35–70, were analyzed. Exclusions were made for missing data, extreme energy intake, and liver cancer patients. Dietary habits were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and polyphenol intake was calculated using the Phenol Explorer database. Logistic regression analyses, adjusted for confounders, were performed to assess the relationship between polyphenol subclasses (total polyphenols, total flavonoids, phenolic acid, and lignin) and NAFLD. Among 9894 participants, those in the highest quintile of total polyphenol (OR 0.65, CI 0.5–0.84; P = 0.007), phenolic acid (OR 0.67, CI 0.52–0.86; P < 0.001), and lignin intake (OR 0.69, CI 0.52–0.87; P = 0.001) demonstrated lower odds of NAFLD compared to the lowest quintile, even after adjusting for confounding factors. However, no significant association was found between total flavonoid intake and NAFLD (OR 1.26, CI 0.96–1.67; P = 0.47). Subgroup analysis indicated a significant inverse association between total polyphenols and NAFLD in women (OR 0.64, CI 0.42–0.93; P = 0.001). Higher intake of total polyphenols, phenolic acid, and lignin was associated with reduced odds of NAFLD among adults in the Hoveyzeh cohort. This suggests that dietary patterns rich in these polyphenols may play a role in mitigating the risk of NAFLD. Further interventional and longitudinal studies are needed to validate these findings and explore potential preventive strategies involving polyphenol-rich diets.
Investigation on three-dimensional printed prosthetics leg sockets coated with different reinforcement materials: analysis on mechanical strength and microstructural
Authors: Ramlee Muhammad Hanif , Ammarullah Muhammad Imam , Mohd Sukri Nurelisya Suraya , Faidzul Hassan Nur Syafiqah , Baharuddin Muhammad Hanif , Abdul Kadir Mohammed Rafiq
Published: March 2024

Previous research has primarily focused on pre-processing parameters such as design, material selection, and printing techniques to improve the strength of 3D-printed prosthetic leg sockets. However, these methods fail to address the major challenges that arise post-printing, namely failures at the distal end of the socket and susceptibility to shear failure. Addressing this gap, the study aims to enhance the mechanical properties of 3D-printed prosthetic leg sockets through post-processing techniques. Fifteen PLA + prosthetic leg sockets are fabricated and reinforced with four materials: carbon fiber, carbon-Kevlar fiber, fiberglass, and cement. Mechanical and microstructural properties of the sockets are evaluated through axial compression testing and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results highlight superior attributes of cement-reinforced sockets, exhibiting significantly higher yield strength (up to 89.57% more than counterparts) and higher Young’s modulus (up to 76.15% greater). SEM reveals correlations between microstructural properties and socket strength. These findings deepen the comprehension of 3D-printed prosthetic leg socket post-processing, presenting optimization prospects. Future research can focus on refining fabrication techniques, exploring alternative reinforcement materials, and investigating the long-term durability and functionality of post-processed 3D-printed prosthetic leg sockets.
Involvement of TGFBI-TAGLN axis in cancer stem cell property of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sarubo Motoharu , Mouri Yasuhiro , Moromizato Akira , Yamada Azusa , Jin Shengjan , Shao Wenhua , Hagita Hiroko , Miyoshi Keiko , Kudo Yasusei
Published: March 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a significant healthcare burden globally. Previous research using single-cell transcriptome analysis identified TGFBI as a crucial marker for the partial-epithelial-mesenchymal transition (partial-EMT) program. However, the precise role of TGFBI in HNSCC progression remains unclear. Therefore, our study aimed to clarify the impact of TGFBI on the malignant behavior of HNSCC cells. Through RNA-sequencing data from the TCGA database, we validated that increased TGFBI expression correlates with a higher occurrence of lymph node metastasis and unfavorable prognosis in HNSCC cases. Functional experiments demonstrated that TGFBI overexpression enhances the ability of sphere formation, indicating stem-cell-like properties. Conversely, TGFBI depletion reduces sphere formation and suppresses the expression of cancer stem cell (CSC) markers. RNA-sequencing analysis of TGFBI-overexpressing and control HNSCC cells revealed TAGLN as a downstream effector mediating TGFBI-induced sphere formation. Remarkably, TAGLN depletion abolished TGFBI-induced sphere formation, while its overexpression rescued the suppressed sphere formation caused by TGFBI depletion. Moreover, elevated TAGLN expression showed correlations with the expression of TGFBI and partial-EMT-related genes in HNSCC cases. In conclusion, our findings suggest that TGFBI may promote CSC properties through the upregulation of TAGLN. These novel insights shed light on the involvement of the TGFBI-TAGLN axis in HNSCC progression and hold implications for the development of targeted therapies.
Short-term restoration practices change the bacterial community in degraded soil from the Brazilian semiarid
Authors: Silva Davila Esmelinda Oliveira , Costa Romario Martins , Campos Janaira Rocha , Rocha Sandra Mara Barbosa , de Araujo Pereira Arthur Prudencio , Melo Vania Maria Maciel , Oliveira Francisca Andrea Silva , de Alcantara Neto Francisco , Mendes Lucas William , Araujo Ademir Sergio Ferreira
Published: March 2024

Land degradation by deforestation adversely impacts soil properties, and long-term restoration practices have been reported to potentially reverse these effects, particularly on soil microorganisms. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the short-term effects of restoration on the soil bacterial community in semiarid areas. This study evaluates the bacterial community in soils experiencing degradation (due to slash-and-burn deforestation) and restoration (utilizing stone cordons and revegetation), in comparison to a native soil in the Brazilian semiarid region. Three areas were selected: (a) under degradation; (b) undergoing short-term restoration; and (c) a native area, and the bacterial community was assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing on soil samples collected during both dry and rainy seasons. The dry and rainy seasons exhibited distinct bacterial patterns, and native sites differed from degraded and restoration sites. Chloroflexi and Proteobacteria phyla exhibited higher prevalence in degraded and restoration sites, respectively, while Acidobacteria and Actinobacteria were more abundant in sites undergoing restoration compared to degraded sites. Microbial connections varied across sites and seasons, with an increase in nodes observed in the native site during the dry season, more edges and positive connections in the restoration site, and a higher occurrence of negative connections in the degradation site during the rainy season. Niche occupancy analysis revealed that degradation favored specialists over generalists, whereas restoration exhibited a higher prevalence of generalists compared to native sites. Specifically, degraded sites showed a higher abundance of specialists in contrast to restoration sites. This study reveals that land degradation impacts the soil bacterial community, leading to differences between native and degraded sites. Restoring the soil over a short period alters the status of the bacterial community in degraded soil, fostering an increase in generalist microbes that contribute to enhanced soil stability.
A novel papillomavirus in a New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri) with oral lesions
Authors: Mifsud Jonathon C. O. , Hall Jane , Van Brussel Kate , Rose Karrie , Parry Rhys H. , Holmes Edward C. , Harvey Erin
Published: March 2024

Despite being the predominant seal species in the Australian-New Zealand region and serving as a key indicator of marine environmental health, little is known about infectious diseases in New Zealand fur seals (Long-nosed fur seal; Arctocephalus forsteri). Several papillomaviruses have been identified in earless seals and sea lions, with the latter linked to cutaneous plaques and invasive squamous cell carcinoma. To date, no papillomaviruses have been reported in fur seals. We used traditional veterinary diagnostic techniques and metatranscriptomic sequencing of tissue samples to investigate the virome of New Zealand fur seals. We identified a novel papillomavirus, provisionally termed A. forsteri papillomavirus 1 (AforPV1) in an animal with clinically and histologically identified oral papilloma-like lesions. RT-PCR confirmed the presence of AforPV1 only in oral papilloma samples from the affected individual. Phylogenetic analysis of the complete 7926 bp genome of AforPV1 revealed that it grouped with taupapillomaviruses found in related Carnivora species. These findings highlight the need for further research into the disease associations and impact of undiagnosed and novel viruses on New Zealand fur seals.
Novel-ordered hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite with interconnected macro–meso–microporosity for the enhanced methanol to aromatics reaction
Authors: Wang Youhe , Li Tingting , Ouyang Yuqing , Zhong Jie , Zhang Yu , Xiong Xiaoyun , Hu Qingxun , Deng Jiacheng , Sun Hongman , Yan Zifeng
Published: March 2024

The methanol to aromatics (MTA) process is an attractive non-petroleum route to produce high-value aromatics but suffers from a high rate of carbon deposition and deactivation and relatively low BTX selectivity.
Atomic-level imaging of beam-sensitive COFs and MOFs by low-dose electron microscopy
Authors: Zhan Zhen , Liu Yuxin , Wang Weizhen , Du Guangyu , Cai Songhua , Wang Peng
Published: March 2024

This review focuses on the mechanisms of beam damage in COFs and MOFs and evaluates various strategies to mitigate this damage using advanced low-dose TEM/STEM techniques in observing atomic defects, host–guest interactions, and surface structures.
Interaction between stabilized droplets of different phases in the same continuous phase of an aqueous three-phase system
Authors: Nguyen Do-Nhu-Trang , Waldmann Léa , Ravaine Valérie , Nicolai Taco , Benyahia Lazhar
Published: March 2024

Janus-like droplets, covered with microgel, formed after the fusion of gelatin and dextran droplets in a common poly(ethylene oxide) phase.
Bi-intercalated vanadium pentoxide synthesized via hydrogen peroxide-induced phase transition for highly stable cathode in aqueous zinc ion batteries
Authors: Chen Jian-an , Hou Xuejun , Wang Xueli , Wang Chunxia , Wen Jiawei , Bu Yongjie , Huang Guoyong , Cao Tiantian , Xu Shengming
Published: March 2024

Operating principle of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs).
One-pot synthesis of an ultrafine Cu2O nanocrystal/porous polymer heterostructure for photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Wu Qianru , Ma Rui , Wang Yao , Li Juan , Xue Huiwen , Zhang Zhixuan , Xu Linhan , Fu Hongbing , Wu Li-Zhu , Li Xu-Bing , Wang Huaping
Published: March 2024

This work provides a facile method for inorganic/organic heterostructures synthesis in a one-pot “click” reaction, in which ultrafine and uniform Cu2O nanocrystals were in situ deposited on triazole polymer nanosheets for the first time.
Efficient electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CO in a flow cell device by a pristine Cu5tz6-cluster-based metal–organic framework
Authors: Li Zijing , Lv Yingtong , Huang Haoliang , Li Zi-Jian , Li Tao , Zhang Linjuan , Wang Jian-Qiang
Published: March 2024

A Cu5tz6 cluster-based metal–organic framework results in efficient electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CO, in which the copper site was fully characterized by X-ray absorption spectroscopy and other techniques.
Mannan-oligosaccharides promote gut microecological recovery after antibiotic disturbance
Authors: Chen Jing , Yin Jialin , Xie Heqiang , Lu Wenwei , Wang Hongchao , Zhao Jianxin , Zhu Jinlin
Published: March 2024

This is the first study to examine the effect of Mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) on promoting the growth of gut microbiota especially predictive recovery-associated bacterial species (p-RABs) and increasing SCFAs after short-term antibiotic treatment.
Recent advances in functional micro/nanomaterials for removal of crude oil via thermal effects
Authors: Yan Duanhong , Yin Kai , He Yuchun , Liu Yao , Wang Lingxiao , Deng Qinwen , He Jun , Awan Saif Ullah , Khalil Ahmed S. G.
Published: March 2024

Overview of research development in crude oil adsorption and removal by thermal affection from different heating methods.
Recent progress in aluminum anodes for high-performance rechargeable aqueous Al-ion batteries
Authors: Li Le , Jia Shaofeng , Shi Yue , Wang Conghui , Qiu Hengwei , Ji Yongqiang , Cao Minghui , Zhang Dan
Published: March 2024

This review discusses the recent advances in the aluminum metal anodes, alloy anodes, and intercalated anodes used for rechargeable aqueous Al-ion batteries.
Correction: Carbon nanotubes: functionalisation and their application in chemical sensors
Authors: Norizan Mohd Nurazzi , Moklis Muhammad Harussani , Ngah Demon Siti Zulaikha , Halim Norhana Abdul , Samsuri Alinda , Mohamad Imran Syakir , Knight Victor Feizal , Abdullah Norli
Published: March 2024

Correction for ‘Carbon nanotubes: functionalisation and their application in chemical sensors’ by Mohd Nurazzi Norizan et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 43704–43732, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0RA09438B
Simultaneous dual modification of Li-rich Mn-based cathode in restraining oxygen release and structure distortion
Authors: Kang Shaowei , Wei Xianbin , Chu Youqi , Mu Yongbiao , Zou Lingfeng , Xu Xiaoqian , Zhang Qing , Zeng Lin
Published: March 2024

Li-rich Mn-based cathode material is modified by a dual modification approach involving Ce, B co-doping, which regulates energy band and induces surface structure reorganization to suppress lattice oxygen precipitation and electrolyte corrosion, thereby improving the cell performance.
Enhancing the performance and cyclability of MoS2 cathodes with interspace layer engineering using polypyrrole
Authors: Chahartagh Nima Mikaeili , Aghdam Ali Molaei , Namvar Shahriar , Jafari Mehryar
Published: March 2024

Polypyrrole insertion in a layered structure of MoS2, leading to considerably high interspace layers PPy–MoS2 from 0.72 to 1.13 nm. It indicates greater Zn2+ storage capacity in PPy–MoS2 cathodes.
A fluorescent probe with an ultra-rapid response to nitric oxide
Authors: Parisi Cristina , Pastore Arianna , Stornaiuolo Mariano , Sortino Salvatore
Published: March 2024

A BODIPT-based fluorescent NO probe exhibits a response time of <0.1 s associated with sensitivity and selectivity, independence from pH within a wide range, and small interference by typical physiological concentrations of glutathione.
Alkali metal-doped two-dimensional Janus Cr2Br3I3 monolayers with the quantum anomalous Hall effect
Authors: Yin Xiang , Deng Li , Wu Yanzhao , Tong Junwei , Luo Feifei , Tian Fubo , Zhang Xianmin
Published: March 2024

The Li/Na/K-doped Cr2Br3I3 monolayer comprehensively provides an “example” of the study of QAHE, i.e., a structure in which the electronic structure shows whether QAHE can be realized in three examples: “Yes”, “Needs to be fine-tuned”, and “No”.
Theoretical studies on the characterization of classical and non-classical C68 isomers and their newly synthesized derivatives by spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Yuling , Gao Tao , Ge Qiuyue , Qi Jiayuan
Published: March 2024

Geometrical/electronic structures and X-ray spectra of newly synthesized fullerene materials were simulated at the DFT level. Reliable structure-spectrum relationships of fullerenes and their derivatives can be established using XPS and NEXAFS spectra.
Twisted-intramolecular-charge-transfer based fluorogenic nano-probes for ultrafast cyanide sensing in water and micellar medium
Authors: Pegu Oiyao Appun , Das Gopal
Published: March 2024

Two pre-twisted TICT active probes with varying pi-acidic terminal substituents have been employed for CN− detection in water and in the aqueous micellar medium. Selectivity and sensitivity towards CN− improved substantially in aqueous medium with the assistance of CTAB.
Determining the chemical composition of diamagnetic mixed solids via measurements of their magnetic susceptibility
Authors: Zhao Miao Miao , Yang Yang , Du Na , Zhu Yu Ying , Ren Peng , Yen Fei
Published: March 2024

By exploiting the additive nature of the molar magnetic susceptibility χMol and molar mass mMol, the doping concentration δ of diamagnetic mixed solids can be resolved to ∼100 parts with only 20 mg of powdered samples. Eight examples are provided.
Multiwavelength study of the HII region LHA 120-N11 in the Large Magellanic Cloud with eROSITA
Authors: Tsuge K. , Sasaki M. , Knies J. R. , Haberl F. , Points S. , Maitra C. , Filipović M. D. , Staveley-Smith L. , Koribalski B. S. , Kerp J.
Published: March 2024

Aims. We studied the diffuse X-ray emission around the HII region LHA 120-N11, which is one of the most active star-forming regions in the Large Magellanic Cloud. We want to determine the nature of the diffuse X-ray emission and improve our understanding of its origin including related interactions with the cold interstellar medium.

Methods. We analyzed the diffuse X-ray emission observed with the extended Roentgen Survey with an Imaging Telescope Array (eROSITA) on the Spectrum-Roentgen-Gamma mission to determine the physical properties of the hot diffuse X-ray emission. Four spectral extraction regions were defined based on the morphology of the X-ray emission. We also studied HI and CO data, as well as Hα line emission in the optical, and compared them with the properties of the diffuse X-ray emission.

Results. The X-ray emission in the four regions is well fitted with an absorbed model consisting of thermal plasma models (vapec) yielding temperatures of kT = ~0.2 keV and kT = 0.8–1.0 keV. The comparison of the X-ray absorption column density and the hydrogen column density shows that the X-ray dark lane located north of N11 is apparently caused by the absorption by HI and CO clouds. By estimating the energy budget of the thermal plasma, we also investigated the heating mechanism of the X-ray emitting plasma. The energy of the diffuse X-ray emission in the superbubble which is a star-forming bubble with a radius of ~120 pc including OB associations LH9, LH10, LH11, and LH13 can be explained by heating from high-mass stars. In the surrounding regions we find that the energy implied by the X-ray emission suggests that additional heating might have been caused by shocks generated by cloud–cloud collisions.
Tidal frequency dependence of the Saturnian k2 Love number
Authors: Lainey V. , Dewberry J. W. , Fuller J. , Cooper N. , Rambaux N. , Zhang Q.
Published: March 2024

Context. Love numbers describe the fluid and elastic response of a body to the tidal force of another massive object. By quantifying these numbers, we can more accurately model the interiors of the celestial objects concerned.

Aims. We determine Saturn’s degree-2 Love number, k2, at four different tidal forcing frequencies.

Methods. To do this, we used astrometric data from the Cassini spacecraft and a dynamical model of the orbits of Saturn’s moons.

Results. The values obtained for k2 are 0.384 ± 0.015, 0.370 ± 0.023, 0.388 ± 0.006, and 0.376 ± 0.007 (1σ error bar) for the tidal frequencies of Janus–Epimetheus, Mimas, Tethys, and Dione.

Conclusions. We show that these values are compatible with a constant Love number formulation. In addition, we compared the observed values with models of dynamical tides excited in Saturn’s interior, also finding a good agreement. Future increases in the measurement precision of Love numbers will provide new constraints on the internal structure of Saturn.
Epos EPO
Authors: Naas Stephanie , Schödel Johannes , Grampp Steffen
Published: March 2024

Die Substitution des Hormons Erythropoetin (EPO) stellte bisher den Grundpfeiler der Therapie der renalen Anämie bei nierenkranken Patienten*innen dar. Die seit über 30 Jahren in der Praxis etablierte Anwendung macht die verwendeten rekombinanten Substanzen zu Medikamenten, für die ein reicher Erfahrungsschatz vorliegt. Aufgrund seiner umschriebenen Wirkweise, des bekannten Nebenwirkungsprofils sowie der aktuellen Studienlage, die bisher überwiegend eine Gleichwertigkeit gegenüber neuen Erythropoese stimulierenden Agenzien (ESA) zeigt, ist wohl kein Ende der EPO-Substitutionstherapie abzusehen. Die Therapie der renalen Anämie wird allerdings durch neue Erkenntnisse zum Eisenhaushalt sowie die nun zugelassenen HIF-Stabilisatoren optimiert und individualisiert werden können.
Tim Spector und sein Blick auf unsere Ernährung
Authors: Wenzel Sabine
Published: March 2024

Der britische Experte für personalisierte Medizin und das Darmmikrobiom, Tim
Spector, hat in seinem Buch viele unserer Vorstellungen über gesundes Essen als
falsch entlarvt. Pseudowissenschaft, die Fehlinterpretation von Untersuchungen
und die Lebensmittelindustrie verhindern ein gesundes Verhältnis zu unserem
Essen. Spector versucht, auf wissenschaftlicher Grundlage alte Mythen und
aktuelle Foodtrends zu demontieren.