bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytosolic delivery of monobodies using the bacterial type III secretion system inhibits oncogenic BCR::ABL1 signaling
Authors: Lebon Chiara , Grossmann Sebastian , Mann Greg , Lindner Florian , Koide Akiko , Koide Shohei , Diepold Andreas , Hantschel Oliver
Published: August 2024

Background
The inability of biologics to pass the plasma membrane prevents their development as therapeutics for intracellular targets. To address the lack of methods for cytosolic protein delivery, we used the type III secretion system (T3SS) of Y. enterocolitica, which naturally injects bacterial proteins into eukaryotic host cells, to deliver monobody proteins into cancer cells. Monobodies are small synthetic binding proteins that can inhibit oncogene signaling in cancer cells with high selectivity upon intracellular expression. Here, we engineered monobodies targeting the BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase for efficient delivery by the T3SS, quantified cytosolic delivery and target engagement in cancer cells and monitored inhibition of BCR::ABL1 signaling.
Methods
In vitro assays were performed to characterize destabilized monobodies (thermal shift assay and isothermal titration calorimetry) and to assess their secretion by the T3SS. Immunoblot assays were used to study the translocation of monobodies into different cell lines and to determine the intracellular concentration after translocation. Split-Nanoluc assays were performed to understand translocation and degradation kinetics and to evaluate target engagement after translocation. Phospho flow cytometry and apoptosis assays were performed to assess the functional effects of monobody translocation into BCR:ABL1-expressing leukemia cells.
Results
To enable efficient translocation of the stable monobody proteins by the T3SS, we engineered destabilized mutant monobodies that retained high affinity target binding and were efficiently injected into different cell lines. After injection, the cytosolic monobody concentrations reached mid-micromolar concentrations considerably exceeding their binding affinity. We found that injected monobodies targeting the BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase selectively engaged their target in the cytosol. The translocation resulted in inhibition of oncogenic signaling and specifically induced apoptosis in BCR::ABL1-dependent cells, consistent with the phenotype when the same monobody was intracellularly expressed.
Conclusion
Hence, we establish the T3SS of Y. enterocolitica as a highly efficient protein translocation method for monobody delivery, enabling the selective targeting of different oncogenic signaling pathways and providing a foundation for future therapeutic application against intracellular targets.
Lightweight YOLOv7 for bushing surface defects detection
Authors: Cheng Wenjun , Zeng Pengfei , Hao Yongping
Published: August 2024

Bushings as metal structure parts because of their good welding performance, good plasticity strength, and other advantages in the engineering field are widely used. However, because the performance of the internal microstructure of the metal material is not uniform, there is an electrode potential difference between the micro area leading to surface corrosion; and the production process will inevitably produce defective surfaces with defective products, thus seriously affecting the subsequent use. Therefore, it is essential to accurately detect the defects on the surface of the bushing.At present, the inspection method based on machine vision has replaced the manual inspection method with low efficiency and a high false detection rate. However,due to the large amount of computation brought about by the complex network model, the efficiency can not meet the production needs of real-time detection; the simple network model is due to the limited ability to extract features and thus can not meet the requirements of the accuracy of the detection. To ensure the detection accuracy of the surface defects of the bushing and at the same time reduce the volume of the model, a bushing defect detection model based on the improved YOLOv7 is proposed. The backbone network of the model uses MobileNetv3 to replace the backbone network of the original YOLOv7, which improves the detection speed while guaranteeing the detection accuracy, and realizes the lightweight model at the same time; the CBAM (Convolutional Block Attention Module) attention mechanism is introduced into the residual edges of each layer of the backbone network, which pays more attention to the small-size target to get more important feature information; BiFPN feature pyramid is used to optimize the detection effect by weighted fusion of multi-scale feature information. The experimental results show that the improved algorithm in this paper reduces the mAP by only 0.7 percent compared with the traditional YOLOv7 algorithm; however, the detection speed is increased by 29.4 percent, and the model volume is reduced by 29.9 percent, which effectively improves the detection accuracy and speed of all kinds of defects on the surface of the bushings, and it can be better adapted to the industrial detecting environment.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) 5206050
Ultra-High Performance Spherical Symmetrical Line Scanning Optical See-through Glasses
Authors: Weiqi Liu , Yang Jianming , Fan Qunwen , Lv Bo , Zhang Senfu , Jiao Jiannan
Published: August 2024

In the development of optical see-through (OST) glasses, the interdependence among field of view (FOV), Eyebox, and optical resolution has significantly constrained progress over the past decades. This paper proposes a groundbreaking solution that combines spherical symmetric optical design with rotating micro-display technology, successfully overcoming these limitations. This transformative approach markedly enhances the display performance of AR glasses, achieving an FOV of over 90°, supporting single-eye 8K resolution, an Eyebox greater than 10 mm, and distortion-free display effects. Since spherical symmetry represents the limit of symmetry in a three-dimensional space, fully utilizing the optical performance of this structure reaches the theoretical maximum. This paper will comprehensively verify the feasibility of this technical route through theoretical analysis and experimental validation.
Allelic variation of TaABI5-A4 Significantly Affects Seed Dormancy in Bread Wheat
Authors: Han Yang , Wang Zeng , Han Bing , Zhang Yingjun , Liu Jindong , Yang Yan
Published: August 2024

ABI5 is a critical transcription factor in regulation of crop seed maturation, dormancy, germination and post-germination. Sixteen copies of homologous sequences of ABI5 were identified in Chinese wheat line Zhou 8425B. Cultivars of two haplotypes TaABI5-A4a and TaABI5-A4bshowed significantly different seed dormancy. Based on two SNPs between the sequences of TaABI5-A4a and TaABI5-A4b, two complementary dominant sequence-tagged site (STS) markers were developed and validated in a natural population of 103 Chinese wheat cultivars and advanced lines and 200 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the Yangxiaomai/Zhongyou 9507 cross; the STS markers can be used efficiently and reliably to evaluate the dormancy of wheat seeds. The transcription level of TaABI5-A4b was significantly increased in TaABI5-A4a-GFPtransgenic rice lines compared with that in TaABI5-A4b-GFP. The average seed germination index of TaABI5-A4a-GFP transgenic rice lines were significantly lower than those of TaABI5-A4b-GFP. In addition, seeds of TaABI5-A4a-GFP transgenic lines had higher ABA sensitivity and endogenous ABA content, lower endogenous GA content and plant height, and thicker stem internodes than those of TaABI5-A4b-GFP. Allelic variation of TaABI5-A4 affected wheat seed dormancy and the gene function was confirmed in transgenic rice. The transgenic rice lines of TaABI5-A4a and TaABI5-A4b had significantly different sensitivities to ABA and contents of endogenous ABA and GA in mature seeds, thereby influencing the seed dormancy, plant height and stem internode length and diameter.
Comparison of Preprocessing Methods Impact on Detection of Soldering Splashes Using Different YOLOv8 Versions
Authors: Klčo Peter , Koniar Dušan , Hargaš Libor , Paškala Marek
Published: August 2024

Quality inspection of electronic boards during manufacturing process is crucial step especially in the case of specific and expensive power electronics modules. Soldering splashes occurrence decreases the reliability and electric properties of final products. The aim of this paper is to compare different YOLOv8 models (small, medium, large) with the combination of basic image preprocessing techniques to achieve the best possible performance of designed algorithm. As preprocessing methods contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) and image color channels manipulation are used. Results show that suitable combination of YOLOv8 model and preprocessing methods leads to increase the recall parameter. In our inspection task, the recall can be considered as the most important metric. The results are supported by the standard two-way ANOVA test.
Overexpression of microRNA-126 in Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate the Alcoholic Liver Injury
Authors: Du Qianjing , Pan TongTong , Xia Yuanhang , Yang Weijian , Zeng Shiyi , Jin Ru , Shao Rongrong , Jin Xiaozhi , Wang Xiaodong , Chen Yongping , Chen Dazhi
Published: August 2024

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major global health issue. This study explores the therapeutic efficacy of microRNA-126 (miR-126)-engineered adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) in ALD, particularly focusing on their impact on the intestinal barrier. Male mice was used to establish an ALD model. Subsequently, both unmodified and miR-126-engineered ADMSCs were transplanted into these ALD models. A variety of techniques were then employed to assess liver injury, the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB), and the gut vascular barrier (GVB) across different intervention groups. ADMSCs effectively mitigated liver injury in the ALD model, as evidenced by improving liver function (serum ALT and AST levels) and injury, and reversing the serum LPS translocation. Furthermore, miR-126-overexpressing engineered ADMSCs demonstrated the most potent effects compared to other groups. ALD-induced damage to the intestinal epithelium and vascular barriers was not only ameliorated by ADMSCs but also further enhanced by ADMSCsmiR−126(+) treatment. Additionally, the expression levels of PV-1 (a positive marker for GVB injury) and ZO-1 (a negative marker for IEB injury) were most markedly reduced and elevated following treatment with ADMSCsmiR−126(+), respectively. Further analyses revealed that ADMSCs treatment actives PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway and subsequently repressing the expression of caspase-3, thereby repairing IEB and GVB, in which miR-126 can improve the above effect. ADMSCs can alleviate ALD by regulating the IEB and GVB, and miR-126-engineered ADMSCs offer enhanced therapeutic benefits. These findings unveil a novel therapeutic mechanism for ALD that involves protection against damage to the IEB and GVB.
Spatiotemporal analysis of West Nile virus infection in the human population based on arboviral detection testing of blood donations
Authors: Talbot Benoit , Ludwig Antoinette , O’Brien Sheila F. , Drews Steven J. , Ogden Nicholas H. , Kulkarni Manisha A.
Published: August 2024

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic flavivirus which often causes asymptomatic infection in humans but may develop into a deadly neuroinvasive disease. In this study, we aimed to investigate variables potentially associated with human WNV infection using human and mosquito WNV surveillance and monitoring datasets, established over 20 years, from 2003 to 2022, across the province of Ontario, Canada. We combined climatic and geographic data, mosquito surveillance data (n=3,010 sites), blood donation arboviral detection testing data in the human population, and demographic and socio-economic data from Canadian population censuses. We hypothesized that spatio-temporal indices related to mosquito vector habitat and phenology, in addition to human demographic and socio-economic factors, were associated with WNV infection in the human population. Our results show that habitat suitability of the main WNV vector in this region, Cx. pipiens/restuans (IRR = 2.0), and variables related to lower income (IRR = 2.8), and shelter infrastructure spending (IRR = 0.7), were key risk factors associated with WNV infection among blood donors from 2003 to 2022 across Ontario (R2 = 0.67). These results may inform points of entry for practical intervention aimed at reducing risk of mosquito-borne pathogens in Canada.
Psychological Needs and Social Comparison: A Dual Analysis of the Life Satisfaction of Local Workers with Agricultural Hukou
Authors: He Li , Wang Jiangyin , Chen Hang , Lu Jinmiao
Published: August 2024

Backgrounds: Research shows that although local workers with agricultural hukou(LWAH) often find themselves at a disadvantage in terms of labor income and access to public services, the significant growth of this group in recent years has drawn attention to their choice of workplace and the factors influencing it. Guided by the theories of self-determination and social comparison, this study aims to explore the impact of the differences betweenocal workers with agricultural hukou and migrant workers with agricultural hukou (MWAH) in psychological needs and social comparisons on life satisfaction, as well as the underlying mechanisms.Methods Utilizing data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) from 2014 to 2020 and employing a fixed effects model for analysis, the results indicate that local workers with agricultural hukouhave significantly higher life satisfaction than migrant workers with agricultural hukou.Results Perceived social status plays a mediating role in this difference, whereas job satisfaction does not. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that differences in generation, region, and work conditions have varying impacts on the life satisfaction of ocal workers with agricultural hukou.Conclusions This study provides important insights into understanding the workplace choices and quality of life of Chinese workers with agricultural hukou. Finally, to effectively promote rural revitalization and new urbanization processes, local governments must strive not only to improve residents' income and public service levels but also to enhance the autonomy, competency, and social status of WAH. This would improve their perceived social status, attracting more laborers to return to their hometowns for work and entrepreneurship.
Discovering Dominant Dynamics for Nonlinear Continuum Robot Control
Authors: Alora John Irvin , Cenedese Mattia , Haller George , Pavone Marco
Published: August 2024

Continuum robots, which emulate biological organisms’ dexterity and flexibility, hold transformative potential for terrestrial and extraterrestrial applications. While these capabilities present significant modeling and control challenges, these robots’ highly dissipative nature allows their behavior to be explained by low-dimensional, dominant dynamics. Despite extensive research to uncover these dynamics, existing methodologies often fail to produce models that accurately capture them, hindering precise control in diverse and safety-critical tasks. This work addresses this gap by discovering these dynamics and leveraging them in a control methodology that substantially outperforms existing methods. Our approach, grounded in Spectral Submanifold theory, enhances accuracy up to sixfold and improves tracking performance by up to 150 times across a diverse set of control tasks, achieving Pareto dominance in precision and computational efficiency. These advances enable the development of simple yet robust models suitable for real-time control, moving us closer to deploying highly adaptive, efficient, and safe continuum robots.
Adaptive enhancement of contrast and brightness of low-light underwater images using feed-forward neural network
Authors: mohammadi maral mirza , raeisi zahra , lashaki reza ahmadi
Published: August 2024

Access to high-resolution underwater images is vital in preserving and developing marine resources. Underwater light scattering and light absorption are two Underwater lights scattering, and light absorption are two fundamental issues in improving the quality of underwater images. Many of the captured images have severe degradation that damages the systems and activities that rely on these images. Most of the obtained images have severe degradation that negatively affects the systems and actions based on these images. To address this issue, we have introduced an auxiliary network to enhance the contrast of underwater images. This network comprises three critical components. A decoder network is used to recover the gradient maps and increase the brightness of the images. We use a brightness adjustment network to control the brightness of the hidden image, and finally, we use an adaptive contrast module to adjust the contrast. We use the normalization module to solve the problem of not paying attention to the increase in image contrast when increasing the brightness. The evaluation and comparison of our method using constructed images or images available in public datasets shows that our model effectively increased the resolution of underwater images. In addition, our model can enhance the resolution of complex images in low-light conditions in the deep sea, scenes with dim backgrounds, and images captured in dark environments.
Towards Applicable Just-In-Time Defect Prediction: A Practical Perspective on Effort Awareness
Authors: Bludau Peter , Pretschner Alexander
Published: August 2024

Reviewing software changes is crucial, as it mitigates the introduction of defects and thereby saves time and reduces costs. Just-in-time (JIT) defect prediction has emerged as an approach to support the review process by predicting the likelihood of defects in new commits. Effort-aware evaluations were proposed to better manage developers' limited time and to analyze the applicability of JIT defect prediction approaches. However, current effort-aware approaches neglect the time-dependent nature of software engineering when evaluating the performance and rank commits to find most defective commits with limited effort. This reveals a gap between the evaluation of models in research and their application in practice, where a timely decision for every single commit is needed. Thus, evaluating models based on effort-aware evaluations does not reflect the actual performance in real-world scenarios and may misrepresent their applicability. In order to evaluate if state-of-the-art JIT defect prediction approaches are applicable, we address these limitations and suggest a more practical evaluation strategy that shifts the focus to conserving effort while ensuring that defective commits are still examined. We further elaborate on the possibility to tune the model prediction and allow for a more reliable application of JIT defect prediction models. Conducting a case study of six open-source projects, we find that the additional performance metrics allow new insights into the potential of JIT defect prediction and state-of-the-art defect prediction can be applicable under the right assumptions. Taking this new perspective, while still reviewing 95% of defective commits, on average, 46% of the non-defective commits are correctly identified by JIT defect prediction models and can be skipped. Thus, while maintaining high recall levels, 20% of the total avoidable effort can be saved employing JIT defect prediction models.
A novel naloxone distribution intervention among persons experiencing unsheltered homelessness: Acceptability of naloxone training and distribution during an annual Point-in-Time Count
Authors: Herrera Ashleigh , Rios Kael
Published: August 2024

Background
The United States is experiencing an intersecting crisis of structural inequities driving unprecedented rates of homelessness and the fourth wave of the opioid epidemic. Consequently, persons experiencing homelessness are at increased risk of dying from opioid related fatalities. While naloxone engagement is crucial to mitigating opioid related mortality, persons experiencing homelessness encounter structural barriers to obtaining and retaining naloxone. The main purpose of this study was to explore the acceptability of a novel overdose management training and naloxone distribution effort during an annual Point-in-Time (PIT) unsheltered count.
Methods
The distribution of naloxone kits was tracked, and PIT Count volunteers were recruited via convenience sampling for an electronic postintervention survey to assess the intervention’s acceptability. Descriptive statistics were performed to explore volunteer’s perceptions of acceptability, based on the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability, for both the overdose management training and naloxone distribution efforts during the PIT Count.
Results
Results revealed a high level of acceptability for both the overdose management training and naloxone distribution efforts among volunteers during the PIT Count.
Conclusions
Results highlight that naloxone distribution during the PIT Count was generally acceptable to PIT Count volunteers. These findings have significant implications for the adoption of naloxone distribution efforts during PIT Counts throughout the United States to increase naloxone engagement and reduce opioid related mortality among persons experiencing homelessness and provide a foundation for future effectiveness studies.
Climate Vulnerability and Cancer Incidence among U.S. Women: Who is most affected?
Authors: Johnson Caitlin Ruth , Liao Cheng-I , Jiang Roulin Lorraine , Tran Nathan , Duong Kim , Mann-Grewal Amandeep , Kapp Daniel S , Chan John K
Published: August 2024

While climate change and its impacts have worsened in the U.S. over the past decade, associations between cancer incidence and regional climate change among women and racial minorities remains overlooked. U.S. states were divided into three climate impact categories (high, moderate, low) based on climate data from federal, insurance, and non-profit reports. We utilized United States Cancer Statistics data to identify 6,728,838 climate change-associated cancers (cutaneous melanoma, lung, breast) diagnosed from 2001-2019. Statistical analyses were then performed to examine incidence trends for these cancers. We found that high climate impact states experienced larger increases in cutaneous melanoma, lung, and breast cancer incidence compared to low climate impact states. Upon intersectionality analysis, breast cancer incidence in high impact regions increased among Black, Hispanic, and Asian women but decreased for White women. These incidence trends may continue to worsen unless actions mitigating climate change and its populational health impacts are undertaken.
Genome-wide analysis of the TGF-beta family in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Choudhury Shouhartha
Published: August 2024

The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-beta) family regulates numerous hallmarks of cellular processes and immune response. So, TGF-β reveals major roles in tumorigenesis. The TGF-β observed in the tumorigenesis indicated a cytokine correlated with cancer. Also, TGF-beta governs the maturation of T lymphocytes (T-cells) and cytokine formulation via FOXP3-dependent mechanisms. In tumorigenesis, TGF-beta has a tumour suppressive response observed by cellular process and cellular death (apoptosis). Hence, the TGF-β reveals a striking force of metastasis by tumour cells to promote therapy. In this perspective, the study looked at the TGFB domain-mediated gene in the TGF-beta superfamily in mammalian genomes. So, perform experiments towards bioinformatics and computational to the current knowledge of the TGFB domain-mediated genes in two organisms' genomes. Initial observation demonstrated that the components of nucleotides and peptides in the TGF-beta 2 gene in a model organism of Homo sapiens. Further observation of the organisms suggested two different genome assemblies. Also, the observation upgraded the TGFB domain-initiated isoforms in the TGF-beta family in two genomes. However, analysis of TGF-β2, an isoform of the TGF-beta family, illustrated the 3D structure, conserved domain, sequence motifs, phylogeny, gene network, chromosome location, and pathways. Hence, the study hypothesized that the TGF-beta family plays a leading role in immune homeostasis.
Simulation of shear strengthening fire-exposure high strength lightweight reinforced concrete beams using basalt fiber-reinforced polymer grid and engineered cementitious composites jacket
Authors: Shareef Noora Ali , Kadhum Mohammed Mansour
Published: August 2024

This research investigated a new composite strengthening technique consisting of a basalt fibre-reinforced polymer (BFRP) grid in compensation with engineered cementitious composites (ECC) matrix and their efficiency in promoting the capacities of deteriorated lightweight high strength concrete beams under fire. The experimental test was conducted utilizing a total of eight high strength lightweight concrete beams, including a control beam (non-exposed fire) that were instrumented, fire-exposed beams according to ISO 834 heating curve for one hour and strengthened beams specimens with BFRP grid and ECC jacket were prepared and tested for 30mm and 20 mm layer thickness, respectively. However, this work depends on various parameters, such as the LWC beams covers, thickness of jacketing, and constant fire duration for an hour. Additionally, finite element studies using ABAQUS/Standard software were used to develop analytical estimations for verifying the tested beams. This was done to ensure that the model proceeded as expected by comparing the experimental results with an absolute percentage error of less than 15% .Further, crack failure mode, stress distribution, shear capacity, and time-temperature distribution from the finite element models correspond well with the obtained data of the experimental beams in this investigation. Therefore, the simulation results demonstrated that ultimate load mid-span deflection curves, which represent the overall behavior of the finite element models, correspond well with the test data.
Effects of Tumor-Associated E. coli Metabolites on Migration of Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Ignatova Nadezhda , Pryazhnikova Maria , Seliverstov Andrey , Abidullina Alina , Gamayunov Sergey , Shirmanova Marina , Druzhkova Irina
Published: August 2024

Colorectal tumors have a close connection with the gut microbiome. Correlation between rearrangement in microbiome composition and disease progression has already been shown. However, the questions about the mechanisms underlying microorganisms and cancer cells interaction and the immediate effects of tumor-associated microbiomes on cancer cells remain open. In this work, we investigated the effects of metabolites of tumor-associated E.coli strains on the growth and migration of human colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT116, SW480 and HT29). Differences in the spectrum of synthesized organic acids from tumor-associated and probiotic M-17 strains were revealed. Specifically, tumor-associated E.coli produced more fumaric, malic and maleic acids, whereas the M-17 - more propionic, 2-oxobutyric and α-ketoglutaric acids. Upon exposure to metabolites from tumor-associated E.coli strains, HCT116 and SW480 cells showed an increased migration activity and HT29 cells - decreased migration activity in 2D and 3D culture models. Immunocytochemistry assay revealed decrease of E-cadherin in HCT116 and SW480 cells and FAK- in HT29, which explain different effects of E.coli metabolites on migratory capacity of colorectal cancer cells. Therefore, these results suggest that the effect of tumor-associated E.coli strains on cancer cells migration depends on their innate type of migration - single-cell or collective migration.
Three-Step Thermodynamic vs. Two-Step Kinetic-Limited Sulfur Reactions in All-Solid-State Sodium Batteries
Authors: Zhu Hongli , Ji Tongtai , Tu Qingsong , Zhao Yang , Wierzbicki Dominik , Plisson Vincent , Wang Ying , Wang Jiwei , Burch Kenneth , Yang Yong
Published: August 2024

The investigation of all-solid-state sodium-sulfur batteries (ASSSBs) is still in its early stage, where the intermediates and mechanism of the complex 16-electron conversion reaction of the sulfur cathode remain unclear. Herein, this study for the first time presents a comprehensive investigation of the sulfur reaction mechanism in ASSSBs by combining electrochemical measurements, ex-situ synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), in-situ Raman spectroscopy, and first-principles calculations. The sulfur cathode undergoes a three-step solid-solid redox reaction following the thermodynamic principle. S8 first reduces to long-chain polysulfides, Na2S5 and Na2S4, then to Na2S2, and finally to Na2S, resulting in a three-plateau voltage profile when temperatures ≥ 90°C or C-rates ≤ C/100. However, under kinetics-limited conditions, temperatures ≤ 60°C and C-rates ≥ C/20, the Na2S2 phase is skipped, leading to a direct conversion from Na2S4 to Na2S and resulting a two-plateau voltage profile. First-principles calculations reveal that the formation energy of Na2S2 is only 4 meV/atom lower than the two-phase equilibrium of Na2S4 and Na2S, explaining its absence under kinetics-limited conditions. This work clarified the thermodynamic and kinetics-limited pathways of the 16-electron conversion reaction of the sulfur cathode in ASSSBs, thereby facilitating the development of high-performance ASSSBs.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain CD3 implements cadmium resistance through multimodal systems and its regulatory networking
Authors: Chatterjee Soumya , Barman Partha , Barman Chandan , Majumdar Sukanta , Chakraborty Ranadhir , Chakraborty Ranadhir
Published: August 2024

Cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, poses a significant global concern. Out of 26 cadmium-resistant bacteria isolated from Malda, West Bengal, India, 10 exhibited significant resistance to cadmium. The study hypothesized that the net availability of metal salt molecules in a dissolved state would determine the tolerance limit of a given bacterium towards a particular heavy metal. Experiments were conducted using a modified medium that supported maximum bioavailability of cadmium, and strain CD3 was selected for studying the growth and induction of cadmium resistance. The resistance levels of CD3 cells increased with increasing initial cell numbers. Biofilm formation increased at lower concentrations of CdCl2.H2O but decreased as concentrations exceeded 0.75 mM. Atomic-absorption-spectrophotometry data confirmed that the efflux pump played a critical role in cadmium resistance at higher concentrations. Using whole-genome-based phylogenetic tools, strain CD3 was found to be the closest relative to Pseudomonas aeruginosa DSM50071T among the type strains of Pseudomonas spp., highlighting its unique evolutionary path. The STRING database was used to uncover an intricate web of protein-protein interactions. Hence, bioinformatic analyses revealed a complex network of regulations, with BfmR playing a crucial role in the functions of CzcR and CzcS, essential for biofilm formation and receptor signalling pathways.
Structure-Informed Design of an Ultra Bright RNA-activated Fluorophore
Authors: Schneekloth John , Yang Mo , Prestwood Peri , Passalacqua Luiz , Balaratnam Sumirtha , Fullenkamp Christopher , Arney Winston , Weeks Kevin , Ferre-D'Amare Adrian
Published: August 2024

Fluorogenic RNAs such as the Mango aptamers are uniquely powerful tools for imaging RNA. A central challenge has been to develop brighter, more specific, and higher affinity aptamer-ligand systems for cellular imaging. Here, we report an ultra-bright fluorophore for the Mango II system discovered using a structure-informed, fragment-based small molecule microarray approach. The new dye, Structure informed, Array-enabled LigAnD 1 (SALAD1) exhibits 3.5-fold brighter fluorescence than TO1-Biotin and subnanomolar aptamer affinity. Improved performance comes solely from alteration of dye-RNA interactions, without alteration of the chromophore itself. Multiple high-resolution structures reveal a unique and specific binding mode for the new dye resulting from improved pocket occupancy, a more defined binding pose, and a novel bonding interaction with potassium. The dye notably improves in-cell confocal RNA imaging. This work provides both introduces a new RNA-activated fluorophore and also a powerful demonstration of how to leverage fragment-based ligand discovery against RNA targets.
Synergetic strength-ductility enhancement of ultra-thin W wire by La oxide nanoprecipitates induced pinning effect
Authors: Zhang Tao
Published: August 2024

Ultra-thin W wire is one of the few tools that can cut precious hard materials, including wafers, silicon, and sapphire. Reducing the diameter of tungsten wire by increasing the strength of W wire is the only method to achieve lower material waste and higher precision. Here, we report an ultra-thin La-doped W wire produced by the ice bath assisted non-slip drawing, with a diameter of 38.0 μm and a continuous length exceeding 50 km, exhibiting a tensile strength up to 6.92 GPa with an elongation of 4.2%. Statistical analysis-assisted atomic resolution imaging and element distribution mapping and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed that the hexagonal close-packed (hcp) La oxide precipitates pin at the grain boundaries and form a coherent interface with the body-centered cubic (bcc) W matrix, inducing the nano twins and local hcp region in bcc W matrix, which originates lattice distortion and dislocations, and altered the plastic deformation mechanism of W. The coherent W-La oxide interface enhances the plastic deformation of grain boundaries and effectively elevates the uniform deformation, thereby simultaneously enhancing the strength and ductility. The ice bath assisted non-slip drawing is applicable to diverse metal wires and is of high potential for scalable and industrial applications.
Entomological Surveys in Rural Tanzania Reveal Key Opportunities for Targeted Larval Source Management to Control Malaria in Areas Dominated by Anopheles funestus
Authors: Msugupakulya Betwel J. , Mhumbira Nicolaus S. , Mziray Dawson T. , Kilalangongono Masoud , Jumanne Mohamed , Ngowo Halfan S. , Kahamba Najat F. , Limwagu Alex J. , Mollel Meleji L. , Selvaraj Prashanth , Wilson Anne L. , Okumu Fredros O.
Published: August 2024

Background
Larval Source Management (LSM) is re-emerging as a critical malaria intervention to address challenges associated with core vector control tools such as insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and to accelerate progress towards elimination. Presently, LSM is not widely used in rural settings and is instead more commonly applicable in urban and arid settings. Here, we performed a systematic entomological assessment in rural communities of southeastern Tanzania, where ITNs are widely used, to explore opportunities for deploying LSM to improve malaria control.
Methods
Aquatic habitat surveys were conducted to understand habitat usage by different mosquito vectors, covering five villages during the rainy season of 2021, and seven villages during the dry season. Additionally, we sampled adult mosquitoes to assess the role of various Anopheles species in malaria transmission in the area and explore opportunities for species-targeted control.
Results
Adult mosquito surveys identified Anopheles funestus and Anopheles arabiensis as the main malaria vectors in the area, with total entomological inoculation rates (EIR) of 20.1 and 6.5 infectious bites per person per year indoors and outdoors respectively. An. funestus was responsible for over 97.6% of the malaria transmission indoors and 95.4% outdoors. The concurrent larval surveys found that habitats with late instar An. arabiensis and An. funestus comprised only a small subset of 11.2% − 16.5% of all water bodies in the rainy season, and 9.7% -15.2% in the dry season. In terms of size, these habitats covered 66.4% − 68.2% of the total habitat areas in the wet season, reducing to 33.9% − 40.6% in the dry season. From the rainy season to the dry season, the surface area of habitats occupied by An. arabiensis and An. funestus decreased by 92.0–97.5%, while the number of habitats occupied by An. arabiensis and An. funestus decreased by 38.0–57.3%. An. funestus preferred large, permanent habitats with clear water and vegetation year-round, while An. arabiensis showed contrasting seasonal preferences, favoring sunlit still waters in the rainy season and larger, opaque habitats in the dry season.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that An. funestus, which is the dominant malaria vector in the area, mediating over 95% of malaria transmission, preferentially occupies only a small subset of uniquely identifiable aquatic habitats in both wet and dry seasons. This presents an opportunity to expand LSM in rural settings by carefully targeting An. funestus habitats, which might be effective and logistically feasible as a complementary approach alongside existing interventions. Further research should assess the impact of such targeted LSM strategies compared to blanket LSM.
Multiple sliding ferroelectricity of rhombohedral-stacked InSe for reconfigurable photovoltaics and imaging applications
Authors: Zheng Shoujun , Liang Qingrong , Zheng Guozhong , Yang Liu
Published: August 2024

Through stacking engineering of two-dimensional (2D) materials, a switchable interface polarization can be generated through interlayer sliding, so called sliding ferroelectricity, which is advantageous over the traditional ferroelectricity due to ultra-thin thickness, high switching speed and low fatigue. However, 2D materials with intrinsic sliding ferroelectricity are still rare, with the exception of rhombohedral-stacked MoS2, which limits sliding ferroelectricity for practical applications such as high-speed storage, photovoltaic, and neuromorphic computing. Here, we reported the observation of sliding ferroelectricity with multiple states in undoped rhombohedral-stacked InSe (γ-InSe) via dual-frequency resonance tracking piezoresponse force microscopy, scanning Kelvin probe microscopy and conductive atomic force microscopy. The tunable bulk photovoltaic effect via the electric field is achieved in the graphene/γ-InSe/graphene tunneling device with a photovoltaic current density of ~ 15 mA/cm2, which is attributed to the multiple sliding steps in γ-InSe according to our theoretical calculations. The vdw tunneling device also features a high photo responsivity of ~ 255 A/W and a fast response time for real-time imaging. Our work not only enriches rhombohedral-stacked 2D materials for sliding ferroelectricity, but also sheds light on their potential for tunable photovoltaics and imaging applications.
I like that doll: Japanese children’s, parents’, and adults’ racial preferences toward dolls and peers
Authors: Okanda Mako , Xianwei Meng
Published: August 2024

Toys help shape children’s perceptions of others and the world (e.g., aspects like racial diversity). Despite Japan’s reputation as one of the most traditional Eastern regions, its doll market predominantly features dolls with whitish features rather than Asian or other ethnic characteristics. It remains uncertain whether this preference for whitish dolls is driven by the choices of Japanese children, adults, or both. This study investigated the preferences of Japanese children aged three to nine, parents, and non-parents regarding dolls of different races, including Asian, Black, and White. Participants were asked to choose their favorite, most attractive, or kindest dolls or peers. Additionally, we examined whether the doll or peer preferences of children aligned with those of parents. Children exhibited an anti-Black bias toward dolls but showed a preference for their racial peers. Both adult groups demonstrated a pro-White bias, particularly when selecting the most attractive dolls or peers. Notably, the dolls parents chose for their children did not align with the children’s preferences, indicating that Japanese parents prioritize their own preferences over those of their children. Furthermore, Japanese children could accurately identify themselves as Asian when presented with dolls and human peers.
Bias and negative values of COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness estimates from a test-negative design without controlling for prior SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Wiegand Ryan , Fireman Bruce , Najdowski Morgan , Tenforde Mark , Link-Gelles Ruth , Ferdinands Jill
Published: August 2024

Test-negative designs (TNDs) are used to assess vaccine effectiveness (VE). Protection from infection-induced immunity may confound the association between case and vaccination status, but collecting reliable infection history can be challenging. If vaccinated individuals have less infection-induced protection than unvaccinated individuals, failure to account for infection history could underestimate VE, though the bias is not well understood. We simulated individual-level SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination histories. VE against symptomatic infection and VE against severe disease estimates unadjusted for infection history underestimated VE compared to estimates adjusted for infection history, and unadjusted estimates were more likely to be below 0%. TNDs assessing VE immediately following vaccine rollout introduced the largest bias and potential for negative VE against symptomatic infection. Despite the potential for bias, VE estimates from TNDs without prior infection information are useful because underestimation is rarely more than 8 percentage points.
Insilico Analysis of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Pathway in Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Sundeep Lakshmi , Shaffic Lusiba , R Rakshambika , Vaidani Mounika , S.K Roshifa , Y Aswin , Chevula Vijaya
Published: August 2024

Ischemic stroke is one of the types of strokes related to the low oxygen supply to the brain cells. It is subdivided into cardioembolic stroke, large artery atherosclerosis stroke, small vessel occlusion and cryptogenic stroke. The stroke is symptomized by body weakness or paralysis on one side. Its development is correlated to the genetic variations of the SERPINA1 gene that produces variants such as Z-allele variant where glutamic acid is replaced with lysine, S-allele variant where glutamic is replaced by valine and the normal M-allele variant which leads to the synthesis of less amount of AAT coupled with its deficiency (AATD) and lowering of AAT activity against the neutrophil elastase that degrades elastin in the lung tissue reducing the permeation of oxygen to the blood stream. In this study, various computational tools such as Heartbio portal, genotype-tissue expression platforms have been employed to retrieve data that relates to the stroke. The pathways in which SERPINA1 participates are identified and the genes involved in them with a regulation activity relating to the stroke were analyzed. The identified genes can be applied as biomarkers to trace the potential development of the stroke in patients with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity and others. Additionally, the genes can be employed in the therapeutical treatments of the stroke patients.
Consideration of Cybersecurity in the Benefit-Risk Analysis of Medical Devices: A Scoping Review and Recommendations
Authors: Freyer Oscar , Jahed Fatemeh , Ostermann Max , Rosenzweig Christian , Werner Pascal , Gilbert Stephen
Published: August 2024

The integration of connected medical devices (cMDs) in healthcare brings benefits but also introduces new, often challenging-to-assess risks related to cybersecurity. Addressing those risks in the benefit-risk analysis (BRA), an integral step in the approval process, is required by regulations in the EU and US. This scoping review aims to identify current legal frameworks, guidelines, and standards in the US and EU on how cybersecurity-related risks should be considered in the BRA. We identified 21 documents issued by multiple standard organisations and regulatory agencies. While guidelines recognise cybersecurity-related risks, they lack the description of detailed methods. Some standards and technical reports provide methods and examples for a security BRA, while others only loosely describe methods that could be adapted to consider cybersecurity-related risks. Some separate security and safety BRAs, while others call for holistic approaches. To enhance patient safety and device effectiveness, standardised frameworks for cybersecurity-related risks should be developed.
Evaluating two models of postpartum family planning counseling on contraceptive uptake: evidence from a repeated cross-sectional study in Ghana
Authors: Eustis-Guthrie Sarah , Williamson Ben , Awal Alhassan Mohammed , Abako Anthony Suguru , Issah Abdul Rahman , Fist Catherine , Gálvez Sofía Martínez
Published: August 2024

Background
Integrating family planning programming into postpartum care is widely established as an effective approach to improve access to family planning. We conducted a pilot in 6 hospitals in northern Ghana to evaluate the effectiveness of two approaches at improving contraceptive uptake. These approaches were: 1) family planning counseling during postnatal care (PNC) appointments and; 2) family planning messaging and referrals during immunization/child welfare clinic (CWC) sessions in the first year postpartum.
Methods
This study used a two-arm non-randomized repeated cross-sectional design. We surveyed 205 women pre-intervention and 226 women post-intervention.
Results
We observed no statistically significant effects on actual or intended contraceptive use in either arm at immediate surveying. Results from two-week phone surveying (n = 202) suggest a 22% increase in contraceptive use (p< .01) and a 25.3% increase in intended use (p <.05) post-intervention in the PNC arm and no statistically significant effects in the CWC arm; however, this data is only suggestive due to its small sample size. High rates of breastfeeding and prolonged postpartum abstinence suggest that the majority surveyed were not at high risk of pregnancy irrespective of modern contraceptive use.
Conclusions
While the relatively small sample size and non-randomized study design limit the generalizability of the findings, the results suggest that contraceptive counseling at CWC may have limited effect on contraceptive uptake, while counseling at PNC is more promising yet still mixed. High rates of breastfeeding and prolonged postpartum abstinence suggest that changes in contraceptive uptake in the first year postpartum in similar contexts may have a reduced effect on unintended pregnancies; this supports similar recent findings in the literature.
Trial registration
Not applicable.