bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Popping Bubbles Make Glaciers Melt Faster
Authors: Martin-Jones Erin
Published: October 2023

Accounting for the newfound bubble effect could improve estimates of how sea-terminating glaciers melt underwater—and better anticipate their shrinkage as oceans warm.
The Effect of Indian Ocean Temperature on the Pacific Trade Winds and ENSO
Authors: Ferster Brady S. , Fedorov Alexey V. , Guilyardi Eric , Mignot Juliette
Published: October 2023

A notable shift in the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has been observed in the early 21st century, characterized by an increased prevalence of Central Pacific (CP) events and strengthened Pacific trade winds. This shift may be attributed to the warming tropical Indian Ocean (TIO). To investigate this, we conduct perturbation experiments using the Insitut Pierre Simon Laplace climate model and nudge TIO surface temperatures to induce warming or cooling effects. Our findings reveal that TIO warming (or cooling) leads to amplified (weakened) mean trade winds and surface warming (cooling) in the Pacific region. Surprisingly, ENSO variability increases in both TIO cooling and warming scenarios. This result is linked to stronger positive feedbacks and a less stable Bjerknes index for either TIO forcing. Additionally, we find that TIO warming leads to more frequent CP events, meridional widening of wind anomalies, and broadening of the ENSO power spectrum toward lower frequencies.
Nonlinear Response of Global Monsoon Precipitation to Atlantic Overturning Strength Variations During Marine Isotope Stage 3
Authors: Zhang X. , Prange M. , Ma L. B. , Liu J.
Published: October 2023

Monsoon rainfall proxy records show clear millennial variations corresponding to abrupt climate events in Greenland ice cores during Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS3). The occurrence of these abrupt climate changes is associated with Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) strength variations which greatly impact the global oceanic energy transport. Hence, the AMOC most likely plays a key role in modulating the global monsoon rainfall at millennial time scale. No modeling work has hitherto investigated the global monsoon system response to AMOC changes under a MIS3 background climate. Using the coupled climate model CCSM3, we simulated MIS3 climate using full 38 ka before present boundary conditions and performed a set of freshwater hosing/extraction experiments. We show not only agreement between modeling results and proxies of monsoon rainfall within the global monsoon domain but also highlight a nonlinear relationship between AMOC strength and annual mean global monsoon precipitation related to oceanic heat transport constraints. During MIS3, a weakened AMOC induces a decrease in annual mean global monsoon rainfall dominated by the northern hemisphere, whereas southern hemisphere monsoon rainfall increases. Above about 16 Sverdrups a further strengthening of the AMOC has no significant impact on hemispheric and global monsoon domain annual mean rainfall. The seasonal monsoon rainfall shows the same nonlinear response like annual mean both hemispherically and globally.
Phylogenetic and ecophysiological novelty of subsurface mercury methylators in mangrove sediments
Authors: Liu Songfeng , Hu Ruiwen , Peng Nenglong , Zhou Zhengyuan , Chen Ruihan , He Zhili , Wang Cheng
Published: October 2023

Mangrove sediment is a crucial component in the global mercury (Hg) cycling and acts as a hotspot for methylmercury (MeHg) production. Early evidence has documented the ubiquity of well-studied Hg methylators in mangrove superficial sediments; however, their diversity and metabolic adaptation in the more anoxic and highly reduced subsurface sediments are lacking. Through MeHg biogeochemical assay and metagenomic sequencing, we found that mangrove subsurface sediments (20–100 cm) showed a less hgcA gene abundance but higher diversity of Hg methylators than superficial sediments (0–20 cm). Regional-scale investigation of mangrove subsurface sediments spanning over 1500 km demonstrated a prevalence and family-level novelty of Hg-methylating microbial lineages (i.e., those affiliated to Anaerolineae, Phycisphaerae, and Desulfobacterales). We proposed the candidate phylum Zixibacteria lineage with sulfate-reducing capacity as a currently understudied Hg methylator across anoxic environments. Unlike other Hg methylators, the Zixibacteria lineage does not use the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway but has unique capabilities of performing methionine synthesis to donate methyl groups. The absence of cobalamin biosynthesis pathway suggests that this Hg-methylating lineage may depend on its syntrophic partners (i.e., Syntrophobacterales members) for energy in subsurface sediments. Our results expand the diversity of subsurface Hg methylators and uncover their unique ecophysiological adaptations in mangrove sediments.
Heat extremes in Western Europe increasing faster than simulated due to atmospheric circulation trends
Authors: Vautard Robert , Cattiaux Julien , Happé Tamara , Singh Jitendra , Bonnet Rémy , Cassou Christophe , Coumou Dim , D’Andrea Fabio , Faranda Davide , Fischer Erich , Ribes Aurélien , Sippel Sebastian , Yiou Pascal
Published: October 2023

Over the last 70 years, extreme heat has been increasing at a disproportionate rate in Western Europe, compared to climate model simulations. This mismatch is not well understood. Here, we show that a substantial fraction (0.8 °C [0.2°−1.4 °C] of 3.4 °C per global warming degree) of the heat extremes trend is induced by atmospheric circulation changes, through more frequent southerly flows over Western Europe. In the 170 available simulations from 32 different models that we analyzed, including 3 large model ensembles, none have a circulation-induced heat trend as large as observed. This can be due to underestimated circulation response to external forcing, or to a systematic underestimation of low-frequency variability, or both. The former implies that future projections are too conservative, the latter that we are left with deep uncertainty regarding the pace of future summer heat in Europe. This calls for caution when interpreting climate projections of heat extremes over Western Europe, in view of adaptation to heat waves.
Localized cardiac small molecule trajectories and persistent chemical sequelae in experimental Chagas disease
Authors: Liu Zongyuan , Ulrich vonBargen Rebecca , Kendricks April L. , Wheeler Kate , Leão Ana Carolina , Sankaranarayanan Krithivasan , Dean Danya A. , Kane Shelley S. , Hossain Ekram , Pollet Jeroen , Bottazzi Maria Elena , Hotez Peter J. , Jones Kathryn M. , McCall Laura-Isobel
Published: October 2023

Post-infectious conditions present major health burdens but remain poorly understood. In Chagas disease (CD), caused by Trypanosoma cruzi parasites, antiparasitic agents that successfully clear T. cruzi do not always improve clinical outcomes. In this study, we reveal differential small molecule trajectories between cardiac regions during chronic T. cruzi infection, matching with characteristic CD apical aneurysm sites. Incomplete, region-specific, cardiac small molecule restoration is observed in animals treated with the antiparasitic benznidazole. In contrast, superior restoration of the cardiac small molecule profile is observed for a combination treatment of reduced-dose benznidazole plus an immunotherapy, even with less parasite burden reduction. Overall, these results reveal molecular mechanisms of CD treatment based on simultaneous effects on the pathogen and on host small molecule responses, and expand our understanding of clinical treatment failure in CD. This link between infection and subsequent persistent small molecule perturbation broadens our understanding of infectious disease sequelae.
Phosphorylation-dependent pseudokinase domain dimerization drives full-length MLKL oligomerization
Authors: Meng Yanxiang , Garnish Sarah E. , Davies Katherine A. , Black Katrina A. , Leis Andrew P. , Horne Christopher R. , Hildebrand Joanne M. , Hoblos Hanadi , Fitzgibbon Cheree , Young Samuel N. , Dite Toby , Dagley Laura F. , Venkat Aarya , Kannan Natarajan , Koide Akiko , Koide Shohei , Glukhova Alisa , Czabotar Peter E. , Murphy James M.
Published: October 2023

The necroptosis pathway is a lytic, pro-inflammatory mode of cell death that is widely implicated in human disease, including renal, pulmonary, gut and skin inflammatory pathologies. The precise mechanism of the terminal steps in the pathway, where the RIPK3 kinase phosphorylates and triggers a conformation change and oligomerization of the terminal pathway effector, MLKL, are only emerging. Here, we structurally identify RIPK3-mediated phosphorylation of the human MLKL activation loop as a cue for MLKL pseudokinase domain dimerization. MLKL pseudokinase domain dimerization subsequently drives formation of elongated homotetramers. Negative stain electron microscopy and modelling support nucleation of the MLKL tetramer assembly by a central coiled coil formed by the extended, ~80 Å brace helix that connects the pseudokinase and executioner four-helix bundle domains. Mutational data assert MLKL tetramerization as an essential prerequisite step to enable the release and reorganization of four-helix bundle domains for membrane permeabilization and cell death.
STRA8–RB interaction is required for timely entry of meiosis in mouse female germ cells
Authors: Shimada Ryuki , Kato Yuzuru , Takeda Naoki , Fujimura Sayoko , Yasunaga Kei-ichiro , Usuki Shingo , Niwa Hitoshi , Araki Kimi , Ishiguro Kei-ichiro
Published: October 2023

Meiosis is differently regulated in males and females. In females, germ cells initiate meiosis within a limited time period in the fetal ovary and undergo a prolonged meiotic arrest until puberty. However, how meiosis initiation is coordinated with the cell cycle to coincide with S phase remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that STRA8 binds to RB via the LXCXE motif. Mutation of the RB-binding site of STRA8 in female mice delays meiotic entry, which consequently delays progression of meiotic prophase and leads to precocious depletion of the oocyte pool. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis reveals that the STRA8–RB interaction is required for S phase entry and meiotic gene activation, ensuring precise timing of meiosis initiation in oocytes. Strikingly, the results suggest STRA8 could sequester RB from E2F during pre-meiotic G1/S transition. This study highlights the gene regulatory mechanisms underlying the female-specific mode of meiotic initiation in mice.
A mitochondrial pentatricopeptide repeat protein enhances cold tolerance by modulating mitochondrial superoxide in rice
Authors: Zu Xiaofeng , Luo Lilan , Wang Zhen , Gong Jie , Yang Chao , Wang Yong , Xu Chunhui , Qiao Xinhua , Deng Xian , Song Xianwei , Chen Chang , Tan Bao-Cai , Cao Xiaofeng
Published: October 2023

Cold stress affects rice growth and productivity. Defects in the plastid-localized pseudouridine synthase OsPUS1 affect chloroplast ribosome biogenesis, leading to low-temperature albino seedlings and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Here, we report an ospus1-1 suppressor, sop10. SOP10 encodes a mitochondria-localized pentatricopeptide repeat protein. Mutations in SOP10 impair intron splicing of the nad4 and nad5 transcripts and decrease RNA editing efficiency of the nad2, nad6, and rps4 transcripts, resulting in deficiencies in mitochondrial complex I, thus decrease ROS generation and rescuing the albino phenotype. Overexpression of different compartment-localized superoxide dismutases (SOD) genes in ospus1-1 reverses the ROS over-accumulation and albino phenotypes to various degrees, with Mn-SOD reversing the best. Mutation of SOP10 in indica rice varieties enhances cold tolerance with lower ROS levels. We find that the mitochondrial superoxide plays a key role in rice cold responses, and identify a mitochondrial superoxide modulating factor, informing efforts to improve rice cold tolerance.
Microglial cannabinoid receptor type 1 mediates social memory deficits in mice produced by adolescent THC exposure and 16p11.2 duplication
Authors: Hasegawa Yuto , Kim Juhyun , Ursini Gianluca , Jouroukhin Yan , Zhu Xiaolei , Miyahara Yu , Xiong Feiyi , Madireddy Samskruthi , Obayashi Mizuho , Lutz Beat , Sawa Akira , Brown Solange P. , Pletnikov Mikhail V. , Kamiya Atsushi
Published: October 2023

Adolescent cannabis use increases the risk for cognitive impairments and psychiatric disorders. Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) is expressed not only in neurons and astrocytes, but also in microglia, which shape synaptic connections during adolescence. However, the role of microglia in mediating the adverse cognitive effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis, is not fully understood. Here, we report that in mice, adolescent THC exposure produces microglial apoptosis in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), which was exacerbated in a model of 16p11.2 duplication, a representative copy number variation (CNV) risk factor for psychiatric disorders. These effects are mediated by microglial Cnr1, leading to reduction in the excitability of mPFC pyramidal-tract neurons and deficits in social memory in adulthood. Our findings suggest the microglial Cnr1 may contribute to adverse effect of cannabis exposure in genetically vulnerable individuals.
Edge-rich molybdenum disulfide tailors carbon-chain growth for selective hydrogenation of carbon monoxide to higher alcohols
Authors: Hu Jingting , Wei Zeyu , Zhang Yunlong , Huang Rui , Zhang Mingchao , Cheng Kang , Zhang Qinghong , Qi Yutai , Li Yanan , Mao Jun , Zhu Junfa , Wu Lihui , Wen Wu , Yu Shengsheng , Pan Yang , Yang Jiuzhong , Wei Xiangjun , Jiang Luozhen , Si Rui , Yu Liang , Wang Ye , Deng Dehui
Published: October 2023

Selective hydrogenation of carbon monoxide (CO) to higher alcohols (C2+OH) is a promising non-petroleum route for producing high-value chemicals, in which precise regulations of both C-O cleavage and C-C coupling are highly essential but remain great challenges. Herein, we report that highly selective CO hydrogenation to C2-4OH is achieved over a potassium-modified edge-rich molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) catalyst, which delivers a high CO conversion of 17% with a superior C2-4OH selectivity of 45.2% in hydrogenated products at 240 °C and 50 bar, outperforming previously reported non-noble metal-based catalysts under similar conditions. By regulating the relative abundance of edge to basal plane, C2-4OH to methanol selectivity ratio can be overturned from 0.4 to 2.2. Mechanistic studies reveal that sulfur vacancies at MoS2 edges boost carbon-chain growth by facilitating not only C-O cleavage but also C-C coupling, while potassium promotes the desorption of alcohols via electrostatic interaction with hydroxyls, thereby enabling preferential formation of C2-4OH.
Mutant p53 sustains serine-glycine synthesis and essential amino acids intake promoting breast cancer growth
Authors: Tombari Camilla , Zannini Alessandro , Bertolio Rebecca , Pedretti Silvia , Audano Matteo , Triboli Luca , Cancila Valeria , Vacca Davide , Caputo Manuel , Donzelli Sara , Segatto Ilenia , Vodret Simone , Piazza Silvano , Rustighi Alessandra , Mantovani Fiamma , Belletti Barbara , Baldassarre Gustavo , Blandino Giovanni , Tripodo Claudio , Bicciato Silvio , Mitro Nico , Del Sal Giannino
Published: October 2023

Reprogramming of amino acid metabolism, sustained by oncogenic signaling, is crucial for cancer cell survival under nutrient limitation. Here we discovered that missense mutant p53 oncoproteins stimulate de novo serine/glycine synthesis and essential amino acids intake, promoting breast cancer growth. Mechanistically, mutant p53, unlike the wild-type counterpart, induces the expression of serine-synthesis-pathway enzymes and L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)/CD98 heavy chain heterodimer. This effect is exacerbated by amino acid shortage, representing a mutant p53-dependent metabolic adaptive response. When cells suffer amino acids scarcity, mutant p53 protein is stabilized and induces metabolic alterations and an amino acid transcriptional program that sustain cancer cell proliferation. In patient-derived tumor organoids, pharmacological targeting of either serine-synthesis-pathway and LAT1-mediated transport synergizes with amino acid shortage in blunting mutant p53-dependent growth. These findings reveal vulnerabilities potentially exploitable for tackling breast tumors bearing missense TP53 mutations.
Direct biological fixation provides a freshwater sink for N2O
Authors: Si Yueyue , Zhu Yizhu , Sanders Ian , Kinkel Dorothee B. , Purdy Kevin J. , Trimmer Mark
Published: October 2023

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent climate gas, with its strong warming potential and ozone-depleting properties both focusing research on N2O sources. Although a sink for N2O through biological fixation has been observed in the Pacific, the regulation of N2O-fixation compared to canonical N2-fixation is unknown. Here we show that both N2O and N2 can be fixed by freshwater communities but with distinct seasonalities and temperature dependencies. N2O fixation appears less sensitive to temperature than N2 fixation, driving a strong sink for N2O in colder months. Moreover, by quantifying both N2O and N2 fixation we show that, rather than N2O being first reduced to N2 through denitrification, N2O fixation is direct and could explain the widely reported N2O sinks in natural waters. Analysis of the nitrogenase (nifH) community suggests that while only a subset is potentially capable of fixing N2O they maintain a strong, freshwater sink for N2O that could be eroded by warming.
Visualization of accessible cholesterol using a GRAM domain-based biosensor
Authors: Koh Dylan Hong Zheng , Naito Tomoki , Na Minyoung , Yeap Yee Jie , Rozario Pritisha , Zhong Franklin L. , Lim Kah-Leong , Saheki Yasunori
Published: October 2023

Cholesterol is important for membrane integrity and cell signaling, and dysregulation of the distribution of cellular cholesterol is associated with numerous diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. While regulated transport of a specific pool of cholesterol, known as “accessible cholesterol”, contributes to the maintenance of cellular cholesterol distribution and homeostasis, tools to monitor accessible cholesterol in live cells remain limited. Here, we engineer a highly sensitive accessible cholesterol biosensor by taking advantage of the cholesterol-sensing element (the GRAM domain) of an evolutionarily conserved lipid transfer protein, GRAMD1b. Using this cholesterol biosensor, which we call GRAM-W, we successfully visualize in real time the distribution of accessible cholesterol in many different cell types, including human keratinocytes and iPSC-derived neurons, and show differential dependencies on cholesterol biosynthesis and uptake for maintaining levels of accessible cholesterol. Furthermore, we combine GRAM-W with a dimerization-dependent fluorescent protein (ddFP) and establish a strategy for the ultrasensitive detection of accessible plasma membrane cholesterol. These tools will allow us to obtain important insights into the molecular mechanisms by which the distribution of cellular cholesterol is regulated.
GSG1L-containing AMPA receptor complexes are defined by their spatiotemporal expression, native interactome and allosteric sites
Authors: Perozzo Amanda M. , Schwenk Jochen , Kamalova Aichurok , Nakagawa Terunaga , Fakler Bernd , Bowie Derek
Published: October 2023

Transmembrane AMPA receptor regulatory proteins (TARPs) and germ cell-specific gene 1-like protein (GSG1L) are claudin-type AMPA receptor (AMPAR) auxiliary subunits that profoundly regulate glutamatergic synapse strength and plasticity. While AMPAR-TARP complexes have been extensively studied, less is known about GSG1L-containing AMPARs. Here, we show that GSG1L’s spatiotemporal expression, native interactome and allosteric sites are distinct. GSG1L generally expresses late during brain development in a region-specific manner, constituting about 5% of all AMPAR complexes in adulthood. While GSG1L can co-assemble with TARPs or cornichons (CNIHs), it also assembles as the sole auxiliary subunit. Unexpectedly, GSG1L acts through two discrete evolutionarily-conserved sites on the agonist-binding domain with a weak allosteric interaction at the TARP/KGK site to slow desensitization, and a stronger interaction at a different site that slows recovery from desensitization. Together, these distinctions help explain GSG1L’s evolutionary past and how it fulfills a unique signaling role within glutamatergic synapses.
Evidence of unconventional superconductivity on the surface of the nodal semimetal CaAg1−xPdxP
Authors: Yano Rikizo , Nagasaka Shota , Matsubara Naoki , Saigusa Kazushige , Tanda Tsuyoshi , Ito Seiichiro , Yamakage Ai , Okamoto Yoshihiko , Takenaka Koshi , Kashiwaya Satoshi
Published: October 2023

Surface states of topological materials provide extreme electronic states for unconventional superconducting states. CaAg1−xPdxP is an ideal candidate for a nodal-line Dirac semimetal with drumhead surface states and no additional bulk bands. Here, we report that CaAg1−xPdxP has surface states that exhibit unconventional superconductivity (SC) around 1.5 K. Extremely sharp magnetoresistance, tuned by surface-sensitive gating, determines the surface origin of the ultrahigh-mobility “electrons.” The Pd-doping elevates the Fermi level towards the surface states, and as a result, the critical temperature (Tc) is increased up to 1.7 K from 1.2 K for undoped CaAgP. Furthermore, a soft point-contact study at the surface of Pd-doped CaAgP proved the emergence of unconventional SC on the surface. We observed the bell-shaped conductance spectra, a hallmark of the unconventional SC. Ultrahigh mobility carriers derived from the surface flat bands generate a new class of unconventional SC.
Sialic acid O-acetylation patterns and glycosidic linkage type determination by ion mobility-mass spectrometry
Authors: Vos Gaёl M. , Hooijschuur Kevin C. , Li Zeshi , Fjeldsted John , Klein Christian , de Vries Robert P. , Toraño Javier Sastre , Boons Geert-Jan
Published: October 2023

O-acetylation is a common modification of sialic acids that has been implicated in a multitude of biological and disease processes. A lack of analytical methods that can determine exact structures of sialic acid variants is a hurdle to determine roles of distinct O-acetylated sialosides. Here, we describe a drift tube ion mobility-mass spectrometry approach that can elucidate exact O-acetylation patterns as well as glycosidic linkage types of sialosides isolated from complex biological samples. It is based on the use of a library of synthetic O-acetylated sialosides to establish intrinsic collision cross section (CCS) values of diagnostic fragment ions. The CCS values were used to characterize O-acetylated sialosides from mucins and N-linked glycans from biologicals as well as equine tracheal and nasal tissues. It uncovered contrasting sialic acid linkage types of acetylated and non-acetylated sialic acids and provided a rationale for sialic acid binding preferences of equine H7 influenza A viruses.
Artificial photosynthetic cells with biotic–abiotic hybrid energy modules for customized CO2 conversion
Authors: Gao Feng , Liu Guangyu , Chen Aobo , Hu Yangguang , Wang Huihui , Pan Jiangyuan , Feng Jinglei , Zhang Hongwei , Wang Yujie , Min Yuanzeng , Gao Chao , Xiong Yujie
Published: October 2023

Programmable artificial photosynthetic cell is the ultimate goal for mimicking natural photosynthesis, offering tunable product selectivity via reductase selection toward device integration. However, this concept is limited by the capacity of regenerating the multiple cofactors that hold the key to various reductases. Here, we report the design of artificial photosynthetic cells using biotic–abiotic thylakoid–CdTe as hybrid energy modules. The rational integration of thylakoid with CdTe quantum dots substantially enhances the regeneration of bioactive NADPH, NADH and ATP cofactors without external supplements by promoting proton-coupled electron transfer. Particularly, this approach turns thylakoid highly active for NADH regeneration, providing a more versatile platform for programming artificial photosynthetic cells. Such artificial photosynthetic cells can be programmed by coupling with diverse reductases, such as formate dehydrogenase and remodeled nitrogenase for highly selective production of formate or methane, respectively. This work opens an avenue for customizing artificial photosynthetic cells toward multifarious demands for CO2 conversion.
Middle ear innovation in Early Cretaceous eutherian mammals
Authors: Wang Haibing , Wang Yuanqing
Published: October 2023

The middle ear ossicles in modern mammals are repurposed from postdentary bones in non-mammalian cynodonts. Recent discoveries by palaeontological and embryonic studies have developed different models for the middle ear evolution in mammaliaforms. However, little is known about the evolutionary scenario of the middle ear in early therians. Here we report a detached middle ear preserved in a new eutherian mammal from the Early Cretaceous Jehol Biota. The well-preserved articulation of the malleus and incus suggest that the saddle-shaped incudomallear joint is a major apomorphy of Early Cretaceous eutherians. By contrast to the distinct saddle-like incudomallear articulation in therians, differences between the overlapping versus the half-overlapping incudomallear joints in monotremes and stem mammals would be relatively minor. The middle ear belongs to the microtype by definition, indicating its adaptation to high-frequency hearing. Current evidence indicates that significant evolutionary innovations of the middle ear in modern therians evolved in Early Cretaceous.
Geophysical evidence for an enriched molten silicate layer above Mars’s core
Authors: Samuel Henri , Drilleau Mélanie , Rivoldini Attilio , Xu Zongbo , Huang Quancheng , Garcia Raphaël F. , Lekić Vedran , Irving Jessica C. E. , Badro James , Lognonné Philippe H. , Connolly James A. D. , Kawamura Taichi , Gudkova Tamara , Banerdt William B.
Published: October 2023

The detection of deep reflected S waves on Mars inferred a core size of 1,830 ± 40 km (ref. 1), requiring light-element contents that are incompatible with experimental petrological constraints. This estimate assumes a compositionally homogeneous Martian mantle, at odds with recent measurements of anomalously slow propagating P waves diffracted along the core–mantle boundary2. An alternative hypothesis is that Mars’s mantle is heterogeneous as a consequence of an early magma ocean that solidified to form a basal layer enriched in iron and heat-producing elements. Such enrichment results in the formation of a molten silicate layer above the core, overlain by a partially molten layer3. Here we show that this structure is compatible with all geophysical data, notably (1) deep reflected and diffracted mantle seismic phases, (2) weak shear attenuation at seismic frequency and (3) Mars’s dissipative nature at Phobos tides. The core size in this scenario is 1,650 ± 20 km, implying a density of 6.5 g cm−3, 5–8% larger than previous seismic estimates, and can be explained by fewer, and less abundant, alloying light elements than previously required, in amounts compatible with experimental and cosmochemical constraints. Finally, the layered mantle structure requires external sources to generate the magnetic signatures recorded in Mars’s crust.
An ON-type direction-selective ganglion cell in primate retina
Authors: Wang Anna Y. M. , Kulkarni Manoj M. , McLaughlin Amanda J. , Gayet Jacqueline , Smith Benjamin E. , Hauptschein Max , McHugh Cyrus F. , Yao Yvette Y. , Puthussery Teresa
Published: October 2023

To maintain a stable and clear image of the world, our eyes reflexively follow the direction in which a visual scene is moving. Such gaze-stabilization mechanisms reduce image blur as we move in the environment. In non-primate mammals, this behaviour is initiated by retinal output neurons called ON-type direction-selective ganglion cells (ON-DSGCs), which detect the direction of image motion and transmit signals to brainstem nuclei that drive compensatory eye movements1. However, ON-DSGCs have not yet been identified in the retina of primates, raising the possibility that this reflex is mediated by cortical visual areas. Here we mined single-cell RNA transcriptomic data from primate retina to identify a candidate ON-DSGC. We then combined two-photon calcium imaging, molecular identification and morphological analysis to reveal a population of ON-DSGCs in the macaque retina. The morphology, molecular signature and GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid)-dependent mechanisms that underlie direction selectivity in primate ON-DSGCs are highly conserved with those in other mammals. We further identify a candidate ON-DSGC in human retina. The presence of ON-DSGCs in primates highlights the need to examine the contribution of subcortical retinal mechanisms to normal and aberrant gaze stabilization in the developing and mature visual system.
Human-like systematic generalization through a meta-learning neural network
Authors: Lake Brenden M. , Baroni Marco
Published: October 2023

The power of human language and thought arises from systematic compositionality—the algebraic ability to understand and produce novel combinations from known components. Fodor and Pylyshyn1famously argued that artificial neural networks lack this capacity and are therefore not viable models of the mind. Neural networks have advanced considerably in the years since, yet the systematicity challenge persists. Here we successfully address Fodor and Pylyshyn’s challenge by providing evidence that neural networks can achieve human-like systematicity when optimized for their compositional skills. To do so, we introduce the meta-learning for compositionality (MLC) approach for guiding training through a dynamic stream of compositional tasks. To compare humans and machines, we conducted human behavioural experiments using an instruction learning paradigm. After considering seven different models, we found that, in contrast to perfectly systematic but rigid probabilistic symbolic models, and perfectly flexible but unsystematic neural networks, only MLC achieves both the systematicity and flexibility needed for human-like generalization. MLC also advances the compositional skills of machine learning systems in several systematic generalization benchmarks. Our results show how a standard neural network architecture, optimized for its compositional skills, can mimic human systematic generalization in a head-to-head comparison.
Heavy-element production in a compact object merger observed by JWST
Authors: Levan Andrew J. , Gompertz Benjamin P. , Salafia Om Sharan , Bulla Mattia , Burns Eric , Hotokezaka Kenta , Izzo Luca , Lamb Gavin P. , Malesani Daniele B. , Oates Samantha R. , Ravasio Maria Edvige , Rouco Escorial Alicia , Schneider Benjamin , Sarin Nikhil , Schulze Steve , Tanvir Nial R. , Ackley Kendall , Anderson Gemma , Brammer Gabriel B. , Christensen Lise , Dhillon Vikram S. , Evans Phil A. , Fausnaugh Michael , Fong Wen-fai , Fruchter Andrew S. , Fryer Chris , Fynbo Johan P. U. , Gaspari Nicola , Heintz Kasper E. , Hjorth Jens , Kennea Jamie A. , Kennedy Mark R. , Laskar Tanmoy , Leloudas Giorgos , Mandel Ilya , Martin-Carrillo Antonio , Metzger Brian D. , Nicholl Matt , Nugent Anya , Palmerio Jesse T. , Pugliese Giovanna , Rastinejad Jillian , Rhodes Lauren , Rossi Andrea , Saccardi Andrea , Smartt Stephen J. , Stevance Heloise F. , Tohuvavohu Aaron , van der Horst Alexander , Vergani Susanna D. , Watson Darach , Barclay Thomas , Bhirombhakdi Kornpob , Breedt Elmé , Breeveld Alice A. , Brown Alexander J. , Campana Sergio , Chrimes Ashley A. , D’Avanzo Paolo , D’Elia Valerio , De Pasquale Massimiliano , Dyer Martin J. , Galloway Duncan K. , Garbutt James A. , Green Matthew J. , Hartmann Dieter H. , Jakobsson Páll , Kerry Paul , Kouveliotou Chryssa , Langeroodi Danial , Le Floc’h Emeric , Leung James K. , Littlefair Stuart P. , Munday James , O’Brien Paul , Parsons Steven G. , Pelisoli Ingrid , Sahman David I. , Salvaterra Ruben , Sbarufatti Boris , Steeghs Danny , Tagliaferri Gianpiero , Thöne Christina C. , de Ugarte Postigo Antonio , Kann David Alexander
Published: October 2023

The mergers of binary compact objects such as neutron stars and black holes are of central interest to several areas of astrophysics, including as the progenitors of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs)1, sources of high-frequency gravitational waves (GWs)2and likely production sites for heavy-element nucleosynthesis by means of rapid neutron capture (ther-process)3. Here we present observations of the exceptionally bright GRB 230307A. We show that GRB 230307A belongs to the class of long-duration GRBs associated with compact object mergers4–6and contains a kilonova similar to AT2017gfo, associated with the GW merger GW170817 (refs. 7–12). We obtained James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) mid-infrared imaging and spectroscopy 29 and 61 days after the burst. The spectroscopy shows an emission line at 2.15 microns, which we interpret as tellurium (atomic massA = 130) and a very red source, emitting most of its light in the mid-infrared owing to the production of lanthanides. These observations demonstrate that nucleosynthesis in GRBs can creater-process elements across a broad atomic mass range and play a central role in heavy-element nucleosynthesis across the Universe.
Pulsed stimulated Brillouin microscopy enables high-sensitivity mechanical imaging of live and fragile biological specimens
Authors: Yang Fan , Bevilacqua Carlo , Hambura Sebastian , Neves Ana , Gopalan Anusha , Watanabe Koki , Govendir Matt , Bernabeu Maria , Ellenberg Jan , Diz-Muñoz Alba , Köhler Simone , Rapti Georgia , Jechlinger Martin , Prevedel Robert
Published: October 2023

Brillouin microscopy is an emerging optical elastography technique capable of assessing mechanical properties of biological samples in a three-dimensional, all-optical and noncontact fashion. The typically weak Brillouin scattering signal can be substantially enhanced via a stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) process; however, current implementations require high pump powers, which prohibit applications to photosensitive or live imaging of biological samples. Here we present a pulsed SBS scheme that takes advantage of the nonlinearity of the pump–probe interaction. In particular, we show that the required pump laser power can be decreased ~20-fold without affecting the signal levels or spectral precision. We demonstrate the low phototoxicity and high specificity of our pulsed SBS approach by imaging, with subcellular detail, sensitive single cells, zebrafish larvae, mouse embryos and adult Caenorhabditis elegans. Furthermore, our method permits observing the mechanics of organoids and C. elegans embryos over time, opening up further possibilities for the field of mechanobiology.
Estimating global identifiability using conditional mutual information in a Bayesian framework
Authors: Bhola Sahil , Duraisamy Karthik
Published: October 2023

A novel information-theoretic approach is proposed to assess the global practical identifiability of Bayesian statistical models. Based on the concept of conditional mutual information, an estimate of information gained for each model parameter is used to quantify the identifiability with practical considerations. No assumptions are made about the structure of the statistical model or the prior distribution while constructing the estimator. The estimator has the following notable advantages: first, no controlled experiment or data is required to conduct the practical identifiability analysis; second, unlike popular variance-based global sensitivity analysis methods, different forms of uncertainties, such as model-form, parameter, or measurement can be taken into account; third, the identifiability analysis is global, and therefore independent of a realization of the parameters. If an individual parameter has low identifiability, it can belong to an identifiable subset such that parameters within the subset have a functional relationship and thus have a combined effect on the statistical model. The practical identifiability framework is extended to highlight the dependencies between parameter pairs that emerge a posteriori to find identifiable parameter subsets. The applicability of the proposed approach is demonstrated using a linear Gaussian model and a non-linear methane-air reduced kinetics model. It is shown that by examining the information gained for each model parameter along with its dependencies with other parameters, a subset of parameters that can be estimated with high posterior certainty can be found.
Recurrence after postoperative intravesical instillation therapy in Hunner type interstitial cystitis
Authors: Ko Kwang Jin , Koo Michael Jakun , Bang Seokhwan , Byun Hye Jin , Kim Min-Ji , Kim Kyunga , Lee Kyu-Sung
Published: October 2023

We performed a prospective, single-arm study comparing outcomes between transurethral ablation plus postoperative instillation of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate (HACS group) and transurethral ablation only in patients with Hunner type interstitial cystitis (historical control group). A total of 78 patients were enrolled, and 51 were included in the per-protocol analysis set. The 2-year recurrence rate was 47.1% (95% CI, 32.9–61.5) in the HACS group, which was significantly lower than that in the control group (86.2%; 95% CI, 74.6–93.9, P < 0.001). After instillation therapy, the hazard ratio for recurrence was 0.38 (95% CI, 0.23–0.65, P < 0.001). The HACS group had an increased recurrence-free survival with the median interval not being reached, while it was 11.4 months in the control group (95% CI, 8.8–13.8, P < 0.001). Regardless of the instillation treatment, there were significant improvements in all symptom questionnaire scores and pain compared to the baseline. However, in the instillation group, improvement was stable even after 12 months. In patients with Hunner type interstitial cystitis, intravesical instillation of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate after transurethral ablation significantly reduced the recurrence rate and maintained symptom improvement for more than 1 year.
Enhancement the crystallization and electro-magnetic properties of BaO–Al2O3–B2O3 glass ceramics doped with Nd2O3-rare earth
Authors: Abo-Mosallam H. A. , Azooz M. A. , Mahdy Ebrahim A.
Published: October 2023

In the present study, a novel glass system containing Neodymium(III) oxide with BaO, Al2O3, and B2O3 were created via a popular melt-quenching technique. Nd2O3 were added, in different concentrations, instead of B2O3 to study its impact on the crystallization, and electro-magnetic behaviors of the prepared poly-crystalline materials. Thermal characteristics via DTA, XRD and SEM techniques were involved to explore the crystallization and structural properties. The magnetic parameters of the prepared glass–ceramics were studied by VSM measurements. As well the electric properties were also explored. BaB2O4 and Al(BO3) phases were firstly crystallized then Ba3Nd(BO3)3 phase was incompletely precipitated instead of BaB2O4 phase owing to Nd2O3 additions. As well, the internal structure was modified from coarse crystals to fine grain microstructure. The crystallization study proved that the addition of neodymium improved the crystallization process of the BaO–Al2O3–B2O3 glass system. The VSM and conductivity analysis for the crystalline materials proved that the Nd2O3/B2O3 substitutions led to an increase in the electrical and magnetic parameters of the investigated materials. The data obtained from the prepared crystalline specimen showed that these materials are with a distinct and promising ferro-electrical property for use in diverse modern applications.
Empirical determination of the effective solid modulus in organic-rich shales
Authors: Spires K. Larkin , Castagna John P. , Omovie Sheyore John
Published: October 2023

Calculating the change in the saturated bulk modulus of a saturated rock with new fluid properties requires a priori selection of an effective bulk modulus of the solid constituents. When the rock constituents have similar mineral moduli, the theoretical bounds on the solid modulus are close to each other. However, when solid properties vary greatly, as in organic-rich shales, the actual effective solid modulus of a physical rock may vary significantly between the bounds which results in uncertainty in the predicted change in the saturated bulk modulus of the rock. We use a semi-empirical rock physics model utilizing the Brown–Korringa equation for mineralogically heterogenous rocks and introduce three parameters to estimate the pore space compressibility, the dry frame compressibility, and the fractional position of the effective solid modulus relative to the Reuss and Voigt bounds. We optimize for these three parameters in seven organic shale formations and find that the Reuss bound for the effective solid material modulus best fits the data when organic content is high. Furthermore, we use this model to fluid substitute to 100% brine saturation and find Gassmann’s equation using the Hill average predicts similar saturated moduli to the semi-empirical Brown–Korringa rock physics model when volume fraction of solid organic matter is less than 5%. However, at higher organic contents, we find that the error using the Gassmann–Hill approach increases, and the semi-empirical Brown–Korringa model better fits the data.
Distribution of blaOXA-10, blaPER-1, and blaSHV genes in ESBL-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from burn patients
Authors: Polse Reem F. , Khalid Haval M. , Mero Wijdan M. S.
Published: October 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is resistant to a wide range of extended spectrum-lactamases (ESBLs) antibiotics because it produces several kinds of ESBLs. The goal of the current investigation was to identify the bacteria that produce extended spectrum -lactamases and the genes that encode three different ESBLs, such as blaOXA-10, blaPER-1 and blaSHV genes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn patients. In this investigation, 71 Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were isolated from burn wounds in Burn and Plastic Surgery Hospital, Duhok City between July 2021 to June 2022. For the purpose of finding the blaOXA-10, blaPER-1, and blaSHV ESBL expressing genes, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used. Among 71 Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates, 26.36% (29/71) were isolated from males and 38.18% (42/71) from females, and 76.06% (54/71) of the isolates were multidrug resistant. They exhibited higher resistance against Piperacillin with resistance rates of 98.59%. Among the ESBL-producing isolates tested, blaOXA-10 was found in 59.26% (32), blaPER-1 was found in 44.44% (24), and blaSHV was found in 11.11% (6). All isolates must undergo antimicrobial susceptibility testing because only a few numbers of the available antibiotics are effective for the treatment of this bacterium. This will prevent the development of resistance in burn units and aids in the management of the treatment plan.
Resonance characteristics of tsunami in bay of Japan by the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano eruption on 15th January 2022
Authors: Pakoksung Kwanchai , Suppasri Anawat , Imamura Fumihiko
Published: October 2023

The massive eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai (HTHH) volcano in Tonga on 15 January 2022 at 04:15 UTC had a global impact and triggered an atmospheric wave and a tsunami. We first analyzed observation data from meteorological stations and tide gauges at 12 locations. Low-frequency trends in the observation data were removed by using a high-pass filter. Fourier and wavelet spectral analyses were applied to determine the frequency characteristics of the filtered data. Modal analysis was developed and used to investigate natural oscillation periods based on bathymetry. The results showed that the Lamb wave generated by the atmospheric pressure wave arrived ~ 7 and ~ 44 h after the eruption. The tsunami arrived ~ 11 and ~ 45 h after the eruption, which corresponded to the arrival time of the Lamb wave. The dominant periods of the Lamb waves were ~ 7.7 and ~ 7.5 min, and for the tsunamis they were ~ 9.9 and ~ 28.7 min. The periods derived from the spectral analysis matched the natural oscillation of the eigenperiod derived from the modal analysis, in eight out of the twelve stations. This study provides valuable insight and information regarding the nonseismic and far-field effects of tsunamis generated by volcanic eruptions.
Advancements in combining electronic animal identification and augmented reality technologies in digital livestock farming
Authors: Pinna Daniele , Sara Gabriele , Todde Giuseppe , Atzori Alberto Stanislao , Artizzu Valentino , Spano Lucio Davide , Caria Maria
Published: October 2023

Modern livestock farm technologies allow operators to have access to a multitude of data thanks to the high number of mobile and fixed sensors available on both the livestock farming machinery and the animals. These data can be consulted via PC, tablet, and smartphone, which must be handheld by the operators, leading to an increase in the time needed for on-field activities. In this scenario, the use of augmented reality smart glasses could allow the visualization of data directly in the field, providing for a hands-free environment for the operator to work. Nevertheless, to visualize specific animal information, a connection between the augmented reality smart glasses and electronic animal identification is needed. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to develop and test a wearable framework, called SmartGlove that is able to link RFID animal tags and augmented reality smart glasses via a Bluetooth connection, allowing the visualization of specific animal data directly in the field. Moreover, another objective of the study was to compare different levels of augmented reality technologies (assisted reality vs. mixed reality) to assess the most suitable solution for livestock management scenarios. For this reason, the developed framework and the related augmented reality smart glasses applications were tested in the laboratory and in the field. Furthermore, the stakeholders’ point of view was analyzed using two standard questionnaires, the NASA-Task Load Index and the IBM-Post Study System Usability Questionnaire. The outcomes of the laboratory tests underlined promising results regarding the operating performances of the developed framework, showing no significant differences if compared to a commercial RFID reader. During the on-field trial, all the tested systems were capable of performing the task in a short time frame. Furthermore, the operators underlined the advantages of using the SmartGlove system coupled with the augmented reality smart glasses for the direct on-field visualization of animal data.
Highlights from Faraday Discussion: Astrochemistry at high resolution, Baltimore, USA, May 2023
Authors: Wilkins Olivia , Gupta Divita , Bertin Mathieu
Published: October 2023

A Faraday Discussions meeting was held on the topic of ‘Astrochemistry at high resolution’. This report covers the highlights of this meeting, including brief summaries of the papers discussed.
Compositionally engineered Cd–Mo–Se alloyed QDs toward photocatalytic H2O2 production and Cr(vi) reduction with a detailed mechanism and influencing parameters
Authors: Sahu Jyotirmayee , Mansingh Sriram , Mishra Bhagyashree Priyadarshini , Prusty Deeptimayee , Parida Kulamani
Published: October 2023

Photocatalytic H2O2 production and Cr(vi) reduction using Cd–Mo–Se alloyed QDs.
Evaluation of oxygen-containing pentadentate ligands with pyridine/quinoline/isoquinoline binding sites via the structural and electrochemical properties of mononuclear copper(ii) complexes
Authors: Mikata Yuji , Uchida Mizuho , Koike Hinata , Shoji Sunao , Ohsedo Yutaka , Kawai Yasushi , Matsuo Takashi
Published: October 2023

A systematic comparison of eighteen copper(ii) complexes with the N4O1 ligand reveals the effect of heteroaromatics depending on their position in the ligand.