bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studying plant autophagy: challenges and recommended methodologies
Authors: Qi Hua , Wang Yao , Bao Yan , Bassham Diane C. , Chen Liang , Chen Qin-Fang , Hou Suiwen , Hwang Inhwan , Huang Li , Lai Zhibing , Li Faqiang , Liu Yule , Qiu Rongliang , Wang Hao , Wang Pengwei , Xie Qingjun , Zeng Yonglun , Zhuang Xiaohong , Gao Caiji , Jiang Liwen , Xiao Shi
Published: October 2023

In plants, autophagy is a conserved process by which intracellular materials, including damaged proteins, aggregates, and entire organelles, are trafficked to the vacuole for degradation, thus maintaining cellular homeostasis. The past few decades have seen extensive research into the core components of the central autophagy machinery and their physiological roles in plant growth and development as well as responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. Moreover, several methods have been established for monitoring autophagic activities in plants, and these have greatly facilitated plant autophagy research. However, some of the methodologies are prone to misuse or misinterpretation, sometimes casting doubt on the reliability of the conclusions being drawn about plant autophagy. Here, we summarize the methods that are widely used for monitoring plant autophagy at the physiological, microscopic, and biochemical levels, including discussions of their advantages and limitations, to provide a guide for studying this important process.
A review of physiological measures for mental workload assessment in aviation
Authors: Luzzani G. , Buraioli I. , Demarchi D. , Guglieri G.
Published: October 2023

The relevant growth of human-machine interaction (HMI) systems in recent years is leading to the necessity of being constantly aware of the cognitive workload level of an operator, especially in a safety-critical context such as aviation. Since the confusion in the definition of this concept, this paper clarifies this terminology and also highlights its relationship with stress. Thus, we analysed the state-of-the-art of cognitive workload evaluations, showing three up-to-date methodologies: subjective, behavioural and physiological. In particular, the physiological approach is increasingly gaining attention in the literature due to today’s exponential growth of biomedical sensors. Therefore, a review of the most adopted physiological signals in the workload evaluation is provided, focusing on the aeronautical field. We conclude by highlighting the necessity of a multimodal approach for mental workload assessment as a result of this analysis.
Morphological indexes to describe snow-cover patterns in a high-alpine area
Authors: Ferrarin Lucia , Schulz Karsten , Bocchiola Daniele , Koch Franziska
Published: October 2023

The spatiotemporal distribution of snow affects hydrological and climatological processes at different scales. Accordingly, quantifying geometric features of snow-cover patterns is important, providing a valuable complement for snow water equivalent (SWE) modelling. This study on satellite-based morphological analysis originally uses two types of geometric indexes: (1) MN, Minkowski numbers (area (MN1), perimeter (MN2), Euler number (MN3)), and (2) CL, average chord length, to describe the morphology of Sentinel-2-derived snow-covered areas (SCAs), within the high-alpine site Zugspitze for a 5 year period. Results indicate that they capture the seasonal variability of snow-cover patterns, particularly during accumulation and ablation. Being to some degree independent from each other, MN2, MN3 and CL provide additional information upon shape, connectivity and length scale of snow cover, compared to most used indexes (e.g. fractional SCA). Correlation values up to +0.7 for MN2, +0.58 for MN3 and +0.46 for CL were observed with selected topographic characteristics, suggesting a close connection between geometric features of snow cover and ground features. Comparing in situ SWE measurements with MN and CL shows a correlation between −0.5 and +0.5. These indexes can hence be applied in combination with in situ data and/or modelling approaches to improve spatially distributed SWE in high-alpine catchments.
Community-based rehabilitation intervention for people with schizophrenia in Ethiopia (RISE) cluster-randomised controlled trial: An exploratory analysis of impact on food insecurity, underweight, alcohol use disorder and depressive symptoms
Authors: Asher Laura , Birhane Rahel , Weiss Helen A. , Medhin Girmay , Selamu Medhin , Patel Vikram , De Silva Mary , Hanlon Charlotte , Fekadu Abebaw
Published: October 2023

We evaluated the effectiveness of community-based rehabilitation (CBR) in reducing depressive symptoms, alcohol use disorder, food insecurity and underweight in people with schizophrenia. This cluster-randomised controlled trial was conducted in a rural district of Ethiopia. Fifty-four sub-districts were allocated in a 1:1 ratio to the facility-based care [FBC] plus CBR arm and the FBC alone arm. Lay workers delivered CBR over 12 months. We assessed food insecurity (self-reported hunger), underweight (BMI< 18.5 kg/m2), depressive symptoms (PHQ-9) and alcohol use disorder (AUDIT ≥ 8) at 6 and 12 months. Seventy-nine participants with schizophrenia in 24 sub-districts were assigned to CBR plus FBC and 87 participants in 24 sub-districts were assigned to FBC only. There was no evidence of an intervention effect on food insecurity (aOR 0.52, 95% CI 0.16–1.67; p = 0.27), underweight (aOR 0.44, 95% CI 0.17–1.12; p = 0.08), alcohol use disorder (aOR 0.82, 95% CI 0.24–2.74; p = 0.74) or depressive symptoms (adjusted mean difference − 0.06, 95% CI −1.35, 1.22; p = 0.92). Psychosocial interventions in low-resource settings should support access to treatment amongst people with schizophrenia, and further research should explore how impacts on economic, physical and mental health outcomes can be achieved.
Gap-modulated dynamics of flexible plates
Authors: Cheng Shyuan , Olivieri Stefano , Rosti Marco E. , Chamorro Leonardo P.
Published: October 2023

The effect of single perforations and their location on the drag and reconfiguration of flexible plates was explored through laboratory experiments and direct numerical simulations. The plates were subjected to uniform flows with negligible turbulence, and the perforations had a square cross-section resulting in a low porosity ratio of

$\gamma \approx 0.028$

. Rigid plates with and without perforations and flexible plates without perforations served as the baseline cases. The perforated plates exhibited distinct jets through the openings in the wake, significantly impacting the aerodynamic force and plate deformation. The velocity and position of the centre jet velocity in relation to downwind distance were influenced by both the incoming flow and the location of the perforations. The centre jet velocity profiles were normalized using an effective velocity and corrected perforation half-width, revealing their dependence on these factors. A simple first-order formulation was developed to predict the change in drag for various perforated plates under a wide range of incoming velocities. This formulation was supported by numerical simulations across a wider range of Cauchy number to confirm the proposed model and separate the effect of the Cauchy and Reynolds numbers. The results of this study may inform the design of flexible structures, define effective porosity and serve as an initial step towards modelling the complex interaction between flow and structures with low porosity.
MAXIMAL STABLE QUOTIENTS OF INVARIANT TYPES IN NIP THEORIES
Authors: KRUPIŃSKI KRZYSZTOF , PORTILLO ADRIÁN
Published: October 2023

For a NIP theory T, a sufficiently saturated model

${\mathfrak C}$

of T, and an invariant (over some small subset of

${\mathfrak C}$

) global type p, we prove that there exists a finest relatively type-definable over a small set of parameters from

${\mathfrak C}$

equivalence relation on the set of realizations of p which has stable quotient. This is a counterpart for equivalence relations of the main result of [2] on the existence of maximal stable quotients of type-definable groups in NIP theories. Our proof adapts the ideas of the proof of this result, working with relatively type-definable subsets of the group of automorphisms of the monster model as defined in [3].
Selenium status and its determinants in very old adults: insights from the Newcastle 85+ Study
Authors: Perri Giorgia , Mathers John C. , Martin-Ruiz Carmen , Parker Craig , Walsh Jennifer S. , Eastell Richard , Demircan Kamil , Chillon Thilo S. , Schomburg Lutz , Robinson Louise , Hill Tom R.
Published: October 2023

There is a dearth of data on Se status in very old adults. The aims of this study were to assess Se status and its determinants in 85-year-olds living in the Northeast of England by measuring serum Se and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) concentrations and glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3) activity. A secondary aim was to examine the interrelationships between each of the biomarkers. In total, 757 participants (463 women, 293 men) from the Newcastle 85+ Study were included. Biomarker concentrations were compared with selected cut-offs (serum Se: suboptimal 70 µg/l and deficient 45 µg/l; SELENOP: suboptimal 4·5 mg/l and deficient 2·6 mg/l). Determinants were assessed using linear regressions, and interrelationships were assessed using restricted cubic splines. Median (inter-quartile range) concentrations of serum Se, SELENOP and of GPx3 activity were 53·6 (23·6) µg/l, 2·9 (1·9) mg/l and 142·1 (50·7) U/l, respectively. Eighty-two percentage and 83 % of participants had suboptimal serum Se (< 70 µg/l) and SELENOP (< 4·5 mg/l), and 31 % and 40 % of participants had deficient serum Se (< 45 µg/l) and SELENOP (< 2·6 mg/l), respectively. Protein intake was a significant determinant of Se status. Additional determinants of serum Se were sex, waist:hip ratio, self-rated health and disease, while sex, BMI and physical activity were determinants of GPx3 activity. There was a linear association between serum Se and SELENOP, and nonlinear associations between serum Se and GPx3 activity and between SELENOP and GPx3 activity. These findings indicate that most participants had suboptimal Se status to saturate circulating SELENOP.
‘The Jews of Ceylon’: Antisemitism, prejudice, and the Moors of Ceylon
Authors: Wettimuny Shamara
Published: October 2023

In the early twentieth century, economic and religious antagonism between Sinhalese and Moors in Ceylon escalated into widespread, deadly violence. In the immediate aftermath of the 1915 pogrom, which involved the targeting of Moors and their property, the Sinhalese nationalist Anagarika Dharmapala observed that ‘Muhammadans’ had accumulated wealth through ‘Shylockian methods’. Even prior to Dharmapala’s claim, Moors were repeatedly depicted as the ‘Jews of Ceylon’ by both influential Sinhalese actors and colonial state actors. As Ceylon did not have a local Jewish population, this article investigates the use of a rhetorical device that was familiar within the broader networks of empire to ‘other’ a non-Jewish mercantile minority. The article accordingly enquires into how and why antisemitic epithets came to be used in prejudicial speech against Moors. It also explores propaganda portraying Moors in terms of ‘hostile’ Jewish stereotypes and the way in which such stereotypes were deployed in Sinhalese interactions with Moors. By tracing the connections between antisemitism and anti-capitalism, this article aims to contribute to a broader discourse on the positions of Semitic groups in British imperial ideology.
Mental health and service use of parents with and without borderline intellectual functioning
Authors: Rudra Sonya , McManus Sally , Hassiotis Angela , Ali Afia
Published: October 2023

Background

People with borderline intellectual functioning (BIF) encounter greater social adversities than the general population and have an increased prevalence of mental illness. However, little is known about the socio-demographic characteristics and mental health of parents with BIF.

Methods

A secondary data analysis of the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2014 was conducted. Logistic regression models were fitted to compare differences in socio-demographic, mental health and service-use characteristics between parents and non-parents with and without BIF, and to investigate if the relationship between parent status and mental health outcomes was modified by BIF status, sex, and employment.

Results

Data from 6872 participants was analyzed; 69.1% were parents. BIF parents had higher odds of common mental disorder, severe mental illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, self-harm/suicide and were more likely to see their General Practitioner (GP) and to receive mental health treatment than non-BIF parents. BIF parents did not have a higher prevalence of mental health problems than BIF non-parents. Being a parent, after adjusting for BIF status and other confounders, was associated with increased odds of having a common mental disorder, visits to see a GP and treatment for mental health. Female parents had higher odds of treatment for mental health problems.

Conclusions

Being a parent is associated with elevated rates of common mental disorders. There is a higher burden of mental health problems and service use in people with BIF. A greater provision of specialist support services including ascertainment is indicated for this group.
Efficacy and safety of coronary computed tomography angiography in diagnosing coronary lesions in children
Authors: Gould Sharon W. , Harty M. Patricia , Cartoski Mark , Krishnan Vijay , Givler Nicole , Ostrowski John , Tsuda Takeshi
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Identification of paediatric coronary artery abnormalities is challenging. We studied whether coronary artery CT angiography can be performed safely and reliably in children.

Materials:

Retrospective analysis of consecutive coronary CT angiography scans was performed for image quality and estimated radiation dose. Both factors were assessed for correlation with electrocardiographic-gating technique that was protocoled on a case-by-case basis, radiation exposure parameters, image noise artefact parameters, heart rate, and heart rate variability.

Results:

Sixty scans were evaluated, of which 96.5% were diagnostic for main left and right coronaries and 91.3% were considered diagnostic for complete coronary arteries. Subjective image quality correlated significantly with lower heart rate, increasing patient age, and higher signal-to-noise ratio. Estimated radiation dose only correlated significantly with choice of electrocardiographic-gating technique with median doses as follows: 2.42 mSv for electrocardiographic-gating triggered high-pitch spiral technique, 5.37 mSv for prospectively triggered axial sequential technique, 3.92 mSv for retrospectively gated technique, and 5.64 mSv for studies which required multiple runs. Two scans were excluded for injection failure and one for protocol outside the study scope. Five non-diagnostic cases were attributed to breathing motion, scanning prior to peak contrast enhancement, or scan acquisition during the incorrect portion of the R-R interval.

Conclusions:

Diagnostic-quality coronary CT angiography can be performed reliably with a low estimated radiation exposure by tailoring each scan protocol to the patient’s body habitus and heart rate. We propose coronary CT angiography is a safe and effective diagnostic modality for coronary artery abnormalities in children.
Alcohol-Related Presentations to Emergency Departments on Days with Holidays, Social, and Sporting Events: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Hagan Stephanie Rae , Crilly Julia , Ranse Jamie
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Events, specifically those where excessive alcohol consumption is common, pose a risk to increase alcohol-related presentations to emergency departments (EDs). Limited evidence exists that synthesizes the impact from events on alcohol-related presentations to EDs.

Study Objective:

This integrative review aimed to synthesize the literature regarding the impact events have on alcohol-related presentations to EDs.

Methods:

An integrative literature review methodology was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Guidelines for data collection, and Whittemore and Knafl’s framework for data analysis. Information sources used to identify studies were MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE, last searched May 26, 2021.

Results:

In total, 23 articles describing 46 events met criteria for inclusion. There was a noted increase in alcohol-related presentations to EDs from 27 events, decrease from eight events, and no change from 25 events. Public holidays, music festivals, and sporting events resulted in the majority of increased alcohol-related presentations to EDs. Few articles focused on ED length-of-stay (LOS), treatment, and disposition.

Conclusion:

An increase in the consumption of alcohol from holiday, social, and sporting events pose the risk for an influx of presentations to EDs and as a result may negatively impact departmental flow. Further research examining health service outcomes is required that considers the impact of events from a local, national, and global perspective.
Billionaire Politicians: A Global Perspective
Authors: Krcmaric Daniel , Nelson Stephen C. , Roberts Andrew
Published: October 2023

We introduce an original dataset of formal political participation for over 2,000 individuals included in the Forbes Billionaires List. We find that billionaire politicians are a surprisingly common phenomenon: Over 11% of the world’s billionaires have held or sought political office. Even compared to other elite groups known for producing politicians from their ranks, this is a high rate of political participation. Moreover, billionaires focus their political ambitions on influential positions, have a strong track record of winning elections, and lean to the right ideologically. We also document substantial cross-national variation: a country’s number of billionaire politicians is not simply a product of its total number of billionaires, but is instead related to regime type. Specifically, billionaires formally enter the political sphere at a much higher rate in autocracies than in democracies. We conclude by discussing the normative implications of our findings and outlining a new research agenda on billionaire politicians.
The Contribution of Biotic Factors in Explaining the Global Distribution of Inorganic Carbon in Surface Soils
Authors: Zeng Xiao‐Min , Bastida Felipe , Plaza César , Zhou Guiyao , Vera Alfonso , Liu Yu‐Rong , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel
Published: October 2023

Soil inorganic carbon (SIC) plays a crucial role in regulating global carbon (C) cycling by linking the long‐term geological and short‐term biological C cycles. Soil inorganic carbon stocks are thought to be mainly driven by abiotic factors. However, despite the well‐known influence of vegetation and soil microbes on terrestrial C pools, the relative contribution of biotic and abiotic factors in explaining the global distribution of SIC remains virtually unknown. Here, we conducted a global field survey including information on SIC of 398 composite topsoil samples from 134 locations to investigate the contribution of biotic drivers in explaining the global distribution of SIC in surface soils compared with climate and abiotic factors. Overall, SIC content peaked in arid and temperate ecosystems with warmer and drier conditions, particularly shrublands. We further revealed that although soil properties (e.g., Ca and C/N ratio) explained the highest variance in SIC globally, biotic factors, associated with vegetation and soil microbes, explained a considerable proportion of the global variation in SIC. In particular, plant richness, plant cover, and fungal biomass were significantly and positively associated with SIC, suggesting that biotic control could play an important role in explaining the global distribution of topsoil SIC. We propose that changes in the biotic factors, such as alterations in vegetation and soil microbes resulting from global changes, may have important direct and indirect consequences for global SIC dynamics and terrestrial C‐climate feedback.
Contrasting Storm‐Time Radiation Belt Events With and Without Dropouts—The Importance of CME Shocks
Authors: Nnadih Stanislaus , Blum Lauren , Xiang Zheng , Tu Weichao , Lyu Xingzhi , Usanova Maria E. , Rodger Craig J.
Published: October 2023

This study compares three different geomagnetic storms (designated as storms 1, 2, and 3) observed by NASA's Van Allen Probes within the spacecraft's first 50 days in orbit. These storms were Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)‐driven with minimum DST around −138, −100, and −106 nT, respectively. Storms 1 and 2 occurred following the arrival of fast‐forward shocks, which compressed the magnetopause inward to about 6.5 and 7.5 RE, respectively, as a result of the increase in solar wind dynamic pressure and density. The inward magnetopause motion helped contribute to a rapid depletion of MeV electrons across the entire outer belt. For the third storm, however, there was little or no dropout of MeV electrons in the heart of the outer belt during the storm main phase. This third storm was generated by a CME without an associated shock, and the magnetopause actually moved outward at the start of the storm, suppressing loss of electrons through the outer boundary. The study reveals that under certain solar wind driving conditions radiation belt electron dropouts may not occur, even during large geomagnetic storms (Dst_min < −100 nT).
Tisagenlecleucel vs. historical standard of care in children and young adult patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: v. Stackelberg Arend , Jäschke Katja , Jousseaume Etienne , Templin Corinna , Jeratsch Ulli , Kosmides Daniela , Steffen Ingo , Gökbuget Nicola , Peters Christina
Published: October 2023

In the absence of randomized controlled trials comparing tisagenlecleucel vs. standard of care (SOC) in pediatric and young adult patients with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (r/r ALL), the objective was to compare the efficacy of tisagenlecleucel with historical controls from multiple disease registries using patient-level adjustment of the historical controls. The analysis is based on patient-level data of three tisagenlecleucel studies (ELIANA, ENSIGN and CCTL019B2001X) vs. three registries in Germany/Austria. Statistical analyses were fully pre-specified and propensity score weighting of the historical controls by fine stratification weights was used to adjust for relevant confounders identified by systematic literature review. Results showed high comparability of cohorts after adjustment with absolute SMD ≤ 0.1 for all pre-specified confounders and favorable outcomes for tisagenlecleucel compared to SOC for all examined endpoints. Hazard ratios for OS(Intention to treat)ITT,adjusted, EFS(Full analysis set)FAS,naïve and RFSFAS,naïve were 0.54 (95% CI: 0.41–0.71, p < 0.001), 0.67 (0.52–0.86, p = 0.001) and 0.77 (0.51–1.18, p = 0.233). The OSITT, adjusted, EFSFAS,naïve and RFSFAS,naive survival probability at 2 years was 59.49% for tisagenlecleucel vs. 36.16% for SOC population, 42.31% vs. 30.23% and 59.60% vs. 54.57%, respectively. Odds ratio for ORRITT,adjusted was 1.99 (1.33–2.97, p < 0.001). Results for OS and ORR were statistically significant after adjustment for confounders and provide evidence supporting a superiority of tisagenlecleucel in r/r ALL given the good comparability of cohorts after adjustment for confounders.
Prognostic impact of measurable residual clonal hematopoiesis in acute myeloid leukemia patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Bischof Lara , Ussmann Jule , Grimm Juliane , Bill Marius , Brauer Dominic , Backhaus Donata , Herrmann Lisa , Merz Maximilian , Herling Marco , Metzeler Klaus H. , Franke Georg-Nikolaus , Vucinic Vladan , Platzbecker Uwe , Schwind Sebastian , Jentzsch Madlen
Published: October 2023

Graphical Abstract
Downregulation of mGluR1-mediated signaling underlying autistic-like core symptoms in Shank1 P1812L-knock-in mice
Authors: Qin Yue , Zhang Xiao-Yong , Liu Yanyan , Ma Zehan , Tao Shuo , Li Ying , Peng Rui , Wang Fei , Wang Jiucun , Feng Jianfeng , Qiu Zilong , Jin Li , Wang Hongyan , Gong Xiaohong
Published: October 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by core symptoms that consist of social deficits and repetitive behaviors. Unfortunately, no effective medication is available thus far to target the core symptoms of ASD, since the pathogenesis remains largely unknown. To investigate the pathogenesis of the core symptoms in ASD, we constructed Shank1 P1812L-knock-in (KI) mice corresponding to a recurrent ASD-related mutation, SHANK1 P1806L, to achieve construct validity and face validity. Shank1 P1812L-KI heterozygous (HET) mice presented with social deficits and repetitive behaviors without the presence of confounding comorbidities. HET mice also exhibited downregulation of metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR1) and associated signals, along with structural abnormalities in the dendritic spines and postsynaptic densities. Combined with findings from Shank1 R882H-KI mice, our study confirms that mGluR1-mediated signaling dysfunction is a pivotal mechanism underlying the core symptoms of ASD. Interestingly, Shank1 P1812L-KI homozygous (HOM) mice manifested behavioral signs of impaired long-term memory rather than autistic-like core traits; thus, their phenotype was markedly different from that of Shank1 P1812L-KI HET mice. Correspondingly, at the molecular level, Shank1 P1812L-KI HOM displayed upregulation of AMPA receptor (GluA2)-related signals. The different patterns of protein changes in HOM and HET mice may explain the differences in behaviors. Our study emphasizes the universality of mGluR1-signaling hypofunction in the pathogenesis of the core symptoms in ASD, providing a potential target for therapeutic drugs. The precise correspondence between genotype and phenotype, as shown in HOM and HET mice, indicates the importance of reproducing disease-related genotypes in mouse models.
Laterally gated ferroelectric field effect transistor (LG-FeFET) using α-In2Se3 for stacked in-memory computing array
Authors: Park Sangyong , Lee Dongyoung , Kang Juncheol , Choi Hojin , Park Jin-Hong
Published: October 2023

In-memory computing is an attractive alternative for handling data-intensive tasks as it employs parallel processing without the need for data transfer. Nevertheless, it necessitates a high-density memory array to effectively manage large data volumes. Here, we present a stacked ferroelectric memory array comprised of laterally gated ferroelectric field-effect transistors (LG-FeFETs). The interlocking effect of the α-In2Se3is utilized to regulate the channel conductance. Our study examined the distinctive characteristics of the LG-FeFET, such as a notably wide memory window, effective ferroelectric switching, long retention time (over 3 × 104 seconds), and high endurance (over 105cycles). This device is also well-suited for implementing vertically stacked structures because decreasing its height can help mitigate the challenges associated with the integration process. We devised a 3D stacked structure using the LG-FeFET and verified its feasibility by performing multiply-accumulate (MAC) operations in a two-tier stacked memory configuration.
Ebf3+ niche-derived CXCL12 is required for the localization and maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Nakatani Taichi , Sugiyama Tatsuki , Omatsu Yoshiki , Watanabe Hitomi , Kondoh Gen , Nagasawa Takashi
Published: October 2023

Lympho-hematopoiesis is regulated by cytokines; however, it remains unclear how cytokines regulate hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) to induce production of lymphoid progenitors. Here, we show that in mice whose CXC chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) is deleted from half HSC niche cells, termed CXC chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)-abundant reticular (CAR) cells, HSCs migrate from CXCL12-deficient niches to CXCL12-intact niches. In mice whose CXCL12 is deleted from all Ebf3+/leptin receptor (LepR)+ CAR cells, HSCs are markedly reduced and their ability to generate B cell progenitors is reduced compared with that to generate myeloid progenitors even when transplanted into wild-type mice. Additionally, CXCL12 enables the maintenance of B lineage repopulating ability of HSCs in vitro. These results demonstrate that CAR cell-derived CXCL12 attracts HSCs to CAR cells within bone marrow and plays a critical role in the maintenance of HSCs, especially lymphoid-biased or balanced HSCs. This study suggests an additional mechanism by which cytokines act on HSCs to produce B cells.
Presynaptic gating of monkey proprioceptive signals for proper motor action
Authors: Tomatsu Saeka , Kim GeeHee , Kubota Shinji , Seki Kazuhiko
Published: October 2023

Our rich behavioural repertoire is supported by complicated synaptic connectivity in the central nervous system, which must be modulated to prevent behavioural control from being overwhelmed. For this modulation, presynaptic inhibition is an efficient mechanism because it can gate specific synaptic input without interfering with main circuit operations. Previously, we reported the task-dependent presynaptic inhibition of the cutaneous afferent input to the spinal cord in behaving monkeys. Here, we report presynaptic inhibition of the proprioceptive afferent input. We found that the input from shortened muscles is transiently facilitated, whereas that from lengthened muscles is persistently reduced. This presynaptic inhibition could be generated by cortical signals because it started before movement onset, and its size was correlated with the performance of stable motor output. Our findings demonstrate that presynaptic inhibition acts as a dynamic filter of proprioceptive signals, enabling the integration of task-relevant signals into spinal circuits.
The endocannabinoid N-arachidonoyl dopamine is critical for hyperalgesia induced by chronic sleep disruption
Authors: Ding Weihua , Yang Liuyue , Shi Eleanor , Kim Bowon , Low Sarah , Hu Kun , Gao Lei , Chen Ping , Ding Wei , Borsook David , Luo Andrew , Choi Jee Hyun , Wang Changning , Akeju Oluwaseun , Yang Jun , Ran Chongzhao , Schreiber Kristin L. , Mao Jianren , Chen Qian , Feng Guoping , Shen Shiqian
Published: October 2023

Chronic pain is highly prevalent and is linked to a broad range of comorbidities, including sleep disorders. Epidemiological and clinical evidence suggests that chronic sleep disruption (CSD) leads to heightened pain sensitivity, referred to as CSD-induced hyperalgesia. However, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) has unique integrative functions in sensory processing, attention/arousal and sleep spindle generation. We report that the TRN played an important role in CSD-induced hyperalgesia in mice, through its projections to the ventroposterior region of the thalamus. Metabolomics revealed that the level of N-arachidonoyl dopamine (NADA), an endocannabinoid, was decreased in the TRN after CSD. Using a recently developed CB1 receptor (cannabinoid receptor 1) activity sensor with spatiotemporal resolution, CB1 receptor activity in the TRN was found to be decreased after CSD. Moreover, CSD-induced hyperalgesia was attenuated by local NADA administration to the TRN. Taken together, these results suggest that TRN NADA signaling is critical for CSD-induced hyperalgesia.
Three-dimensional ultrasound matrix imaging
Authors: Bureau Flavien , Robin Justine , Le Ber Arthur , Lambert William , Fink Mathias , Aubry Alexandre
Published: October 2023

Matrix imaging paves the way towards a next revolution in wave physics. Based on the response matrix recorded between a set of sensors, it enables an optimized compensation of aberration phenomena and multiple scattering events that usually drastically hinder the focusing process in heterogeneous media. Although it gave rise to spectacular results in optical microscopy or seismic imaging, the success of matrix imaging has been so far relatively limited with ultrasonic waves because wave control is generally only performed with a linear array of transducers. In this paper, we extend ultrasound matrix imaging to a 3D geometry. Switching from a 1D to a 2D probe enables a much sharper estimation of the transmission matrix that links each transducer and each medium voxel. Here, we first present an experimental proof of concept on a tissue-mimicking phantom through ex-vivo tissues and then, show the potential of 3D matrix imaging for transcranial applications.
Phase-engineering the Andreev band structure of a three-terminal Josephson junction
Authors: Coraiola Marco , Haxell Daniel Z. , Sabonis Deividas , Weisbrich Hannes , Svetogorov Aleksandr E. , Hinderling Manuel , ten Kate Sofieke C. , Cheah Erik , Krizek Filip , Schott Rüdiger , Wegscheider Werner , Cuevas Juan Carlos , Belzig Wolfgang , Nichele Fabrizio
Published: October 2023

In hybrid Josephson junctions with three or more superconducting terminals coupled to a semiconducting region, Andreev bound states may form unconventional energy band structures, or Andreev matter, which are engineered by controlling superconducting phase differences. Here we report tunnelling spectroscopy measurements of three-terminal Josephson junctions realised in an InAs/Al heterostructure. The three terminals are connected to form two loops, enabling independent control over two phase differences and access to a synthetic Andreev band structure in the two-dimensional phase space. Our results demonstrate a phase-controlled Andreev molecule, originating from two discrete Andreev levels that spatially overlap and hybridise. Signatures of hybridisation are observed in the form of avoided crossings in the spectrum and band structure anisotropies in the phase space, all explained by a numerical model. Future extensions of this work could focus on addressing spin-resolved energy levels, ground state fermion parity transitions and Weyl bands in multiterminal geometries.
Overemphasized role of preceding strong El Niño in generating multi-year La Niña events
Authors: Kim Ji-Won , Yu Jin-Yi , Tian Baijun
Published: October 2023

Previous studies have emphasized the significance of a strong El Niño preceding La Niña (LN) in the formation of multi-year LN events due to the slow recharge-discharge ocean heat content process. However, observational analyses from 1900 to 2022 reveal that the majority (64%) of multi-year LN events did not necessitate a preceding strong El Niño to generate their second LN, suggesting an overemphasis on traditional views. Instead, here we show that a negative phase of the North Pacific Meridional Mode (PMM) during spring, when the first LN begins to decay, activates the mechanism responsible for triggering another LN and producing a multi-year event. The westward extension of the first LN’s cold anomalies, which interact directly with the eastern edge of the western Pacific warm pool, is highlighted as a crucial factor in the occurrence of a negative PMM. Additionally, the PMM mechanism can create a third LN, leading to triple-dip events.
Climate change projected to impact structural hillslope connectivity at the global scale
Authors: Michalek Alexander T. , Villarini Gabriele , Husic Admin
Published: October 2023

Structural connectivity describes how landscapes facilitate the transfer of matter and plays a critical role in the flux of water, solutes, and sediment across the Earth’s surface. The strength of a landscape’s connectivity is a function of climatic and tectonic processes, but the importance of these drivers is poorly understood, particularly in the context of climate change. Here, we provide global estimates of structural connectivity at the hillslope level and develop a model to describe connectivity accounting for tectonic and climate processes. We find that connectivity is primarily controlled by tectonics, with climate as a second order control. However, we show climate change is projected to alter global-scale connectivity at the end of the century (2070 to 2100) by up to 4% for increasing greenhouse gas emission scenarios. Notably, the Ganges River, the world’s most populated basin, is projected to experience a large increase in connectivity. Conversely, the Amazon River and the Pacific coast of Patagonia are projected to experience the largest decreases in connectivity. Modeling suggests that, as the climate warms, it could lead to increased erosion in source areas, while decreased rainfall may hinder sediment flow downstream, affecting landscape connectivity with implications for human and environmental health.
Single-atom catalysts-based catalytic ROS clearance for efficient psoriasis treatment and relapse prevention via restoring ESR1
Authors: Lu Xiangyu , Kuai Le , Huang Fang , Jiang Jingsi , Song Jiankun , Liu Yiqiong , Chen Si , Mao Lijie , Peng Wei , Luo Ying , Li Yongyong , Dong Haiqing , Li Bin , Shi Jianlin
Published: October 2023

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory disease of especially high recurrence rate (90%) which is suffered by approximately 3% of the world population. The overexpression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a critical role in psoriasis progress. Here we show that biomimetic iron single-atom catalysts (FeN4O2-SACs) with broad-spectrum ROS scavenging capability can be used for psoriasis treatment and relapse prevention via related gene restoration. FeN4O2-SACs demonstrate attractive multiple enzyme-mimicking activities based on atomically dispersed Fe active structures, which are analogous to those of natural antioxidant enzymes, iron superoxide dismutase, human erythrocyte catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase. Further, in vitro and in vivo experiments show that FeN4O2-SACs can effectively ameliorate psoriasis-like symptoms and prevent the relapse with augmented efficacy compared with the clinical drug calcipotriol. Mechanistically, estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) is identified as the core protein upregulated in psoriasis treatment through RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Together, this study provides a proof of concept of psoriasis catalytic therapy (PCT) and multienzyme-inspired bionics (MIB).
Immune synapse formation promotes lipid peroxidation and MHC-I upregulation in licensed dendritic cells for efficient priming of CD8+ T cells
Authors: Calzada-Fraile Diego , Iborra Salvador , Ramírez-Huesca Marta , Jorge Inmaculada , Dotta Enrico , Hernández-García Elena , Martín-Cófreces Noa , Nistal-Villán Estanislao , Veiga Esteban , Vázquez Jesús , Pasqual Giulia , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco
Published: October 2023

Antigen cognate dendritic cell (DC)-T cell synaptic interactions drive activation of T cells and instruct DCs. Upon receiving CD4+ T cell help, post-synaptic DCs (psDCs) are licensed to generate CD8+ T cell responses. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable psDCs licensing remain unclear. Here, we describe that antigen presentation induces an upregulation of MHC-I protein molecules and increased lipid peroxidation on psDCs in vitro and in vivo. We also show that these events mediate DC licensing. In addition, psDC adoptive transfer enhances pathogen-specific CD8+ T responses and protects mice from infection in a CD8+ T cell-dependent manner. Conversely, depletion of psDCs in vivo abrogates antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses during immunization. Together, our data show that psDCs enable CD8+ T cell responses in vivo during vaccination and reveal crucial molecular events underlying psDC licensing.
Hidden prevalence of deletion-inversion bi-alleles in CRISPR-mediated deletions of tandemly arrayed genes in plants
Authors: Liu Jiuer , Wang Feng-Zhu , Li Chong , Li Yujia , Li Jian-Feng
Published: October 2023

Tandemly arrayed genes (TAGs) with functional redundancy and chromosomal linkage constitute 14 ~ 35% in sequenced plant genomes. The multiplex CRISPR system is the tool of choice for creating targeted TAG deletions. Here, we show that up to ~80% of CRISPR-mediated TAG knockout alleles in Arabidopsis and rice are deletion-inversion (delinver) bi-alleles, which are easily misidentified as homozygous deletion alleles by routine PCR-based genotyping. This can lead to misinterpretation of experimental data and production of progenies with genetic heterogeneity in an unnoticed manner. In ~2,650 transgenic events, delinver mutation frequencies are predominantly correlated with deletion frequencies but unrelated to chromosomal locations or deletion sizes. Delinver mutations also occur frequently at genomic non-TAG loci during multiplexed CRISPR editing. Our work raises the alarm about delinver mutations as common unwanted products of targeted TAG deletions in plants and helps prevent false interpretation of plant TAG functions due to this hidden genotype issue.
Circular wood use can accelerate global decarbonisation but requires cross-sectoral coordination
Authors: Forster Eilidh J. , Healey John R. , Newman Gary , Styles David
Published: October 2023

Predominantly linear use of wood curtails the potential climate-change mitigation contribution of forestry value-chains. Using lifecycle assessment, we show that more cascading and especially circular uses of wood can provide immediate and sustained mitigation by reducing demand for virgin wood, which increases forest carbon sequestration and storage, and benefits from substitution for fossil-fuel derived products, reducing net greenhouse gas emissions. By United Kingdom example, the circular approach of recycling medium-density fibreboard delivers 75% more cumulative climate-change mitigation by 2050, compared with business-as-usual. Early mitigation achieved by circular and cascading wood use complements lagged mitigation achieved by afforestation; and in combination these measures could cumulatively mitigate 258.8 million tonnes CO2e by 2050. Despite the clear benefits of implementing circular economy principles, we identify many functional barriers impeding the structural reorganisation needed for such complex system change, and propose enablers to transform the forestry value-chain into an effective societal change system and lead to coherent action.
Single-cell morphological and topological atlas reveals the ecosystem diversity of human breast cancer
Authors: Zhao Shen , Chen De-Pin , Fu Tong , Yang Jing-Cheng , Ma Ding , Zhu Xiu-Zhi , Wang Xiang-Xue , Jiao Yi-Ping , Jin Xi , Xiao Yi , Xiao Wen-Xuan , Zhang Hu-Yunlong , Lv Hong , Madabhushi Anant , Yang Wen-Tao , Jiang Yi-Zhou , Xu Jun , Shao Zhi-Ming
Published: October 2023

Digital pathology allows computerized analysis of tumor ecosystem using whole slide images (WSIs). Here, we present single-cell morphological and topological profiling (sc-MTOP) to characterize tumor ecosystem by extracting the features of nuclear morphology and intercellular spatial relationship for individual cells. We construct a single-cell atlas comprising 410 million cells from 637 breast cancer WSIs and dissect the phenotypic diversity within tumor, inflammatory and stroma cells respectively. Spatially-resolved analysis identifies recurrent micro-ecological modules representing locoregional multicellular structures and reveals four breast cancer ecotypes correlating with distinct molecular features and patient prognosis. Further analysis with multiomics data uncovers clinically relevant ecosystem features. High abundance of locally-aggregated inflammatory cells indicates immune-activated tumor microenvironment and favorable immunotherapy response in triple-negative breast cancers. Morphological intratumor heterogeneity of tumor nuclei correlates with cell cycle pathway activation and CDK inhibitors responsiveness in hormone receptor-positive cases. sc-MTOP enables using WSIs to characterize tumor ecosystems at the single-cell level.
Recastable assemblies of carbon dots into mechanically robust macroscopic materials
Authors: Sui Bowen , Zhu Youliang , Jiang Xuemei , Wang Yifan , Zhang Niboqia , Lu Zhongyuan , Yang Bai , Li Yunfeng
Published: October 2023

Assembly of nanoparticles into macroscopic materials with mechanical robustness, green processability, and recastable ability is an important and challenging task in materials science and nanotechnology. As an emerging nanoparticle with superior properties, macroscopic materials assembled from carbon dots will inherit their properties and further offer collective properties; however, macroscopic materials assembled from carbon dots solely remain unexplored. Here we report macroscopic films assembled from carbon dots modified by ureido pyrimidinone. These films show tunable fluorescence inherited from carbon dots. More importantly, these films exhibit collective properties including self-healing, re-castability, and superior mechanical properties, with Young’s modulus over 490 MPa and breaking strength over 30 MPa. The macroscopic films maintain original mechanical properties after several cycles of recasting. Through scratch healing and welding experiments, these films show good self-healing properties under mild conditions. Moreover, the molecular dynamics simulation reveals that the interplay of interparticle and intraparticle hydrogen bonding controls mechanical properties of macroscopic films. Notably, these films are processed into diverse shapes by an eco-friendly hydrosetting method. The methodology and results in this work shed light on the exploration of functional macroscopic materials assembled from nanoparticles and will accelerate innovative developments of nanomaterials in practical applications.
Prolonged hydrogen production by engineered green algae photovoltaic power stations
Authors: Gwon Hyo Jin , Park Geonwoo , Yun JaeHyoung , Ryu WonHyoung , Ahn Hyun S.
Published: October 2023

Interest in securing energy production channels from renewable sources is higher than ever due to the daily observation of the impacts of climate change. A key renewable energy harvesting strategy achieving carbon neutral cycles is artificial photosynthesis. Solar-to-fuel routes thus far relied on elaborately crafted semiconductors, undermining the cost-efficiency of the system. Furthermore, fuels produced required separation prior to utilization. As an artificial photosynthesis design, here we demonstrate the conversion of swimming green algae into photovoltaic power stations. The engineered algae exhibit bioelectrogenesis, en route to energy storage in hydrogen. Notably, fuel formation requires no additives or external bias other than CO2 and sunlight. The cellular power stations autoregulate the oxygen level during artificial photosynthesis, granting immediate utility of the photosynthetic hydrogen without separation. The fuel production scales linearly with the reactor volume, which is a necessary trait for contributing to the large-scale renewable energy portfolio.
The changing impact of rural electrification on Indian agriculture
Authors: Ray Sudatta , Pullabhotla Hemant K.
Published: October 2023

Rural electrification policies in the developing world primarily focus on household power, often at the cost of electricity supply to other productive sectors of the economy. We examine the consequences of this imbalance in rural electrification policy priority on agricultural development in India. Electric pumping of groundwater for irrigation is a major driver of India’s agricultural growth. However, the government of India shifted its rural electrification focus towards universal household electrification starting early 2000s. Using a newly constructed panel-dataset spanning three decades, we find that districts electrifying after the policy change experience much lower gains in electrified groundwater irrigation. On average, electrifying 100 additional rural households is associated with an increase of two additional electrified wells among newly electrified districts – eight times lower compared to 16 electrified wells per 100 electrified households among districts electrified pre-policy change. Our estimates imply that newly electrified districts would have witnessed nearly 20% more irrigated cropland in the dry season if rural electrification policy priorities had not shifted away from agriculture. These results highlight the need to complement household electrification with powering income-generating sectors of the rural economy.