bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of information networks
Authors: Sontag Andrei , Rogers Tim , Yates Christian A
Published: November 2023

We explore a simple model of network dynamics which has previously been applied to the study of information flow in the context of epidemic spreading. A random rooted network is constructed that evolves according to the following rule: at a constant rate, pairs of nodes (i, j) are randomly chosen to interact, with an edge drawn from i to j (and any other out-edge from i deleted) if j is strictly closer to the root with respect to graph distance. We characterise the dynamics of this random network in the limit of large size, showing that it instantaneously forms a tree with long branches that immediately collapse to depth two, then it slowly rearranges itself to a star-like configuration. This curious behaviour has consequences for the study of the epidemic models in which this information network was first proposed.
Learning quantum finite automata with queries
Authors: Qiu Daowen
Published: November 2023

Learning finite automata (termed as model learning) has become an important field in machine learning and has been useful realistic applications. Quantum finite automata (QFA) are simple models of quantum computers with finite memory. Due to their simplicity, QFA have well physical realizability, but one-way QFA still have essential advantages over classical finite automata with regard to state complexity (two-way QFA are more powerful than classical finite automata in computation ability as well). As a different problem in quantum learning theory and quantum machine learning, in this paper, our purpose is to initiate the study of learning QFA with queries (naturally it may be termed as quantum model learning), and the main results are regarding learning two basic one-way QFA (1QFA): (1) we propose a learning algorithm for measure-once 1QFA (MO-1QFA) with query complexity of polynomial time and (2) we propose a learning algorithm for measure-many 1QFA (MM-1QFA) with query complexity of polynomial time, as well.
Is Centralised General Data Protection Regulation Enforcement a Constitutional Necessity?
Authors: Brito Bastos Filipe , Pałka Przemysław
Published: November 2023

Protection of personal data as a fundamental right – GDPR’s enforcement dilemma in cross-border cases – “One-stop-shop” model’s inadequacies highlighted – Distinction: regular cross-border enforcement versus cases of common European concern – Proposal: centralised enforcement mechanism for cases of common European concern – Union supervisory authority as a solution – Insufficiencies of the harmonisation proposal of the European Commission – Centralisation’s advantages: uniform enforcement, better coordination, and curbing forum shopping – Implications: fundamental rights protection and EU’s constitutional obligations – Constructive critique of the one-stop-shop model, not a dismissal – European constitutional law mandates effective data protection enforcement.
From climate science to climate action
Authors: Shrivastava Paul , Kasuga Fumiko , Grant John
Published: November 2023

Non-technical summary

Despite 50 years of good science showing the urgency for action on remedying climate change, the business and political worlds have been exceedingly slow in actualizing climate solutions. Now excess climate-related deaths have mounted to more than 5 million people per year. In this Intelligence Briefing, we identify a few targeted driving actions through economic taxation, ending subsidies, and pursuit of legal cases for climate homicide, among many others. Scientists can play a vital role in providing supporting scientific evidence for policies and prosecutions, and model climate behaviors in their personal and professional lives.

Technical summary

Based on our analysis of the current global situation regarding carbon (CO2) in the atmosphere, we note that the earth has reached a dangerous 420 ppm, compared to staying under the 350 ppm necessary for human sustainability; and carbon concentration in the atmosphere is still climbing, as fossil fuel firms are continuing to delay and dilute regulatory efforts. This paper suggests action on several fronts. Governments can impose improved taxation regimes that involve unitary, windfall, and luxury taxes on carbon and the consumption of natural assets. Cutting subsidies to fossil fuel firms via COP actions can reduce carbon, by making renewable energy more competitive. We suggest recognizing the excess deaths by carbon pollution as homicide and charging responsible companies as was done in the case of asbestos and tobacco. If timely action is not taken, we caution about the potential rise of climate violence of emerging ‘new politics’ and increased global population displacement. Science, government, and business sectors need to collaborate in transdisciplinary ways to produce further actionable knowledge. Scientists can lead by example by reducing their own carbon footprints.

Social media summary

Fund climate action by taxing billionaires, eliminating subsidies, and suing fossil companies for climate homicide. The science community is focused on and committed to systems changes – seeking both natural systems, and social and economic systems to be sustainable. Yet systems that are in-place now producing carbon dioxide (herein aka carbon), are not taking adequate scientifically recommended actions; or worse, they are changing in the wrong directions. How can we move from producing more scientific knowledge to science-based actions, and what can scientists do to support such actions? In this Intelligence Briefing, we suggest some pathways for action.
Cryptic Magma Chamber in the Deccan Traps Imaged Using Receiver Functions and Surface Wave Dispersion
Authors: Saha Gokul , Kumar Vivek , Chaubey Dipak K. , Rai Shyam S.
Published: November 2023

An anomalous crust and lithospheric mantle in the Deccan Volcanic Province are imaged below a 160 km long W‐E profile through the joint inversion of receiver functions and surface wave dispersion. The upper crust has an unusually low S‐wave velocity (Vs ∼ 3.3–3.5 km/s) at 8–17 km depth, underlying a 4 km thick high‐velocity layer (Vs > 3.8 km/s). The low velocity possibly represents the frozen magma reservoir, the source for the magma eruption at ∼65 Ma due to the interaction of the Reunion plume with India. The shallow, high‐velocity layer could be basaltic mafic intrusions responsible for the production of massive CO2 degassing. The Moho deepens beneath the west coast to ∼45 km due to 10–15 km of magma underplating. The mantle plume scar is seen as thinned lithosphere (80–100 km), with the presence of long‐lived low‐velocity layers in the shallow mantle attributed to the presence of sulfide melts.
The presence of Candida parapsilosis with intrathecal baclofen pump in a person with high cervical spinal cord injury; infection or colonization? A Case Report
Authors: Chan John , Singh Harminder , Shem Kazuko
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy is an effective method of treating spasticity in persons with spasticity due to spinal cord injury (SCI), but complications are not rare and can include spinal fluid leaks, infection, and catheter/pump malfunction.

Case presentation

This study presents information related to an adult male patient with traumatic SCI and a history of two prior ITB pump pocket infections that required removal due to pump infection. The patient then developed skin erosion over the third pump, and the fluid around the pump grew methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, diphtheroids, and Candida parapsilosis. The patient was initially treated with antibiotics and anti-fungal medication without removal of the ITB pump. The ITB pump was eventually removed 27 months later, and the fourth pump was implanted 10 months later.

Discussion

ITB pumps can be an effective treatment modality for spasticity in people with SCI; however, complications, including infection, can occur and require pump removal. This case illustrates a case of possible Candida colonization of the ITB pump, which was eventually removed.
Dynamic RBM47 ISGylation confers broad immunoprotection against lung injury and tumorigenesis via TSC22D3 downregulation
Authors: Ding Shihui , Pang Xiquan , Luo Shaoxiang , Gao Huili , Li Bo , Yue Junqiu , Chen Jian , Hu Sheng , Tu Zepeng , He Dong , Kuang Youyi , Dong Zhiqiang , Zhang Min
Published: November 2023

ISGylation is a well-established antiviral mechanism, but its specific function in immune and tissue homeostasis regulation remains elusive. Here, we reveal that the RNA-binding protein RBM47 undergoes phosphorylation-dependent ISGylation at lysine 329 to regulate immune activation and maintain lung homeostasis. K329R knockin (KI) mice with defective RBM47-ISGylation display heightened susceptibility to LPS-induced acute lung injury and lung tumorigenesis, accompanied with multifaceted immunosuppression characterized by elevated pro-inflammatory factors, reduced IFNs/related chemokines, increased myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and impaired tertiary lymphoid structures. Mechanistically, RBM47-ISGylation regulation of the expression of TSC22D3 mRNA, a glucocorticoid-inducible transcription factor, partially accounts for the effects of RBM47-ISGylation deficiency due to its broad immunosuppressive activity. We further demonstrate the direct inhibitory effect of RBM47-ISGylation on TSC22D3 expression in human cells using a nanobody-targeted E3 ligase to induce site-specific ISGylation. Furthermore, epinephrine-induced S309 phosphorylation primes RBM47-ISGylation, with epinephrine treatment exacerbating dysregulated cytokine expression and ALI induction in K329R KI mice. Our findings provide mechanistic insights into the dynamic regulation of RBM47-ISGylation in supporting immune activation and maintaining lung homeostasis.
Warming-induced vapor pressure deficit suppression of vegetation growth diminished in northern peatlands
Authors: Chen Ning , Zhang Yifei , Yuan Fenghui , Song Changchun , Xu Mingjie , Wang Qingwei , Hao Guangyou , Bao Tao , Zuo Yunjiang , Liu Jianzhao , Zhang Tao , Song Yanyu , Sun Li , Guo Yuedong , Zhang Hao , Ma Guobao , Du Yu , Xu Xiaofeng , Wang Xianwei
Published: November 2023

Recent studies have reported worldwide vegetation suppression in response to increasing atmospheric vapor pressure deficit (VPD). Here, we integrate multisource datasets to show that increasing VPD caused by warming alone does not suppress vegetation growth in northern peatlands. A site-level manipulation experiment and a multiple-site synthesis find a neutral impact of rising VPD on vegetation growth; regional analysis manifests a strong declining gradient of VPD suppression impacts from sparsely distributed peatland to densely distributed peatland. The major mechanism adopted by plants in response to rising VPD is the “open” water-use strategy, where stomatal regulation is relaxed to maximize carbon uptake. These unique surface characteristics evolve in the wet soil‒air environment in the northern peatlands. The neutral VPD impacts observed in northern peatlands contrast with the vegetation suppression reported in global nonpeatland areas under rising VPD caused by concurrent warming and decreasing relative humidity, suggesting model improvement for representing VPD impacts in northern peatlands remains necessary.
Strong protective effect of the APOL1 p.N264K variant against G2-associated focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and kidney disease
Authors: Gupta Yask , Friedman David J. , McNulty Michelle T. , Khan Atlas , Lane Brandon , Wang Chen , Ke Juntao , Jin Gina , Wooden Benjamin , Knob Andrea L. , Lim Tze Y. , Appel Gerald B. , Huggins Kinsie , Liu Lili , Mitrotti Adele , Stangl Megan C. , Bomback Andrew , Westland Rik , Bodria Monica , Marasa Maddalena , Shang Ning , Cohen David J. , Crew Russell J. , Morello William , Canetta Pietro , Radhakrishnan Jai , Martino Jeremiah , Liu Qingxue , Chung Wendy K. , Espinoza Angelica , Luo Yuan , Wei Wei-Qi , Feng Qiping , Weng Chunhua , Fang Yilu , Kullo Iftikhar J. , Naderian Mohammadreza , Limdi Nita , Irvin Marguerite R. , Tiwari Hemant , Mohan Sumit , Rao Maya , Dube Geoffrey K. , Chaudhary Ninad S. , Gutiérrez Orlando M. , Judd Suzanne E. , Cushman Mary , Lange Leslie A. , Lange Ethan M. , Bivona Daniel L. , Verbitsky Miguel , Winkler Cheryl A. , Kopp Jeffrey B. , Santoriello Dominick , Batal Ibrahim , Pinheiro Sérgio Veloso Brant , Oliveira Eduardo Araújo , Simoes e Silva Ana Cristina , Pisani Isabella , Fiaccadori Enrico , Lin Fangming , Gesualdo Loreto , Amoroso Antonio , Ghiggeri Gian Marco , D’Agati Vivette D. , Magistroni Riccardo , Kenny Eimear E. , Loos Ruth J. F. , Montini Giovanni , Hildebrandt Friedhelm , Paul Dirk S. , Petrovski Slavé , Goldstein David B. , Kretzler Matthias , Gbadegesin Rasheed , Gharavi Ali G. , Kiryluk Krzysztof , Sampson Matthew G. , Pollak Martin R. , Sanna-Cherchi Simone
Published: November 2023

African Americans have a significantly higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease, especially focal segmental glomerulosclerosis -, than European Americans. Two coding variants (G1 and G2) in the APOL1 gene play a major role in this disparity. While 13% of African Americans carry the high-risk recessive genotypes, only a fraction of these individuals develops FSGS or kidney failure, indicating the involvement of additional disease modifiers. Here, we show that the presence of the APOL1 p.N264K missense variant, when co-inherited with the G2 APOL1 risk allele, substantially reduces the penetrance of the G1G2 and G2G2 high-risk genotypes by rendering these genotypes low-risk. These results align with prior functional evidence showing that the p.N264K variant reduces the toxicity of the APOL1 high-risk alleles. These findings have important implications for our understanding of the mechanisms of APOL1-associated nephropathy, as well as for the clinical management of individuals with high-risk genotypes that include the G2 allele.
Cell-type-specific Alzheimer’s disease polygenic risk scores are associated with distinct disease processes in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yang Hyun-Sik , Teng Ling , Kang Daniel , Menon Vilas , Ge Tian , Finucane Hilary K. , Schultz Aaron P. , Properzi Michael , Klein Hans-Ulrich , Chibnik Lori B. , Schneider Julie A. , Bennett David A. , Hohman Timothy J. , Mayeux Richard P. , Johnson Keith A. , De Jager Philip L. , Sperling Reisa A.
Published: November 2023

Many of the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk genes are specifically expressed in microglia and astrocytes, but how and when the genetic risk localizing to these cell types contributes to AD pathophysiology remains unclear. Here, we derive cell-type-specific AD polygenic risk scores (ADPRS) from two extensively characterized datasets and uncover the impact of cell-type-specific genetic risk on AD endophenotypes. In an autopsy dataset spanning all stages of AD (n = 1457), the astrocytic ADPRS affected diffuse and neuritic plaques (amyloid-β), while microglial ADPRS affected neuritic plaques, microglial activation, neurofibrillary tangles (tau), and cognitive decline. In an independent neuroimaging dataset of cognitively unimpaired elderly (n = 2921), astrocytic ADPRS was associated with amyloid-β, and microglial ADPRS was associated with amyloid-β and tau, connecting cell-type-specific genetic risk with AD pathology even before symptom onset. Together, our study provides human genetic evidence implicating multiple glial cell types in AD pathophysiology, starting from the preclinical stage.
Skeletal muscle-secreted DLPC orchestrates systemic energy homeostasis by enhancing adipose browning
Authors: Hu Xiaodi , Sun Mingwei , Chen Qian , Zhao Yixia , Liang Na , Wang Siyuan , Yin Pengbin , Yang Yuanping , Lam Sin Man , Zhang Qianying , Tudiyusufu Alimujiang , Gu Yingying , Wan Xin , Chen Meihong , Li Hu , Zhang Xiaofei , Shui Guanghou , Fu Suneng , Zhang Licheng , Tang Peifu , Wong Catherine C. L. , Zhang Yong , Zhu Dahai
Published: November 2023

MyoD is a skeletal muscle-specifically expressed transcription factor and plays a critical role in regulating myogenesis during muscle development and regeneration. However, whether myofibers-expressed MyoD exerts its metabolic function in regulating whole body energy homeostasis in vivo remains largely unknown. Here, we report that genetic deletion of Myod in male mice enhances the oxidative metabolism of muscle and, intriguingly, renders the male mice resistant to high fat diet-induced obesity. By performing lipidomic analysis in muscle-conditioned medium and serum, we identify 1,2-dilinoleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DLPC) as a muscle-released lipid that is responsible for MyoD-orchestrated body energy homeostasis in male Myod KO mice. Functionally, the administration of DLPC significantly ameliorates HFD-induced obesity in male mice. Mechanistically, DLPC is found to induce white adipose browning via lipid peroxidation-mediated p38 signaling in male mice. Collectively, our findings not only uncover a novel function of MyoD in controlling systemic energy homeostasis through the muscle-derived lipokine DLPC but also suggest that the DLPC might have clinical potential for treating obesity in humans.
Targeted V1 comodulation supports task-adaptive sensory decisions
Authors: Haimerl Caroline , Ruff Douglas A. , Cohen Marlene R. , Savin Cristina , Simoncelli Eero P.
Published: November 2023

Sensory-guided behavior requires reliable encoding of stimulus information in neural populations, and flexible, task-specific readout. The former has been studied extensively, but the latter remains poorly understood. We introduce a theory for adaptive sensory processing based on functionally-targeted stochastic modulation. We show that responses of neurons in area V1 of monkeys performing a visual discrimination task exhibit low-dimensional, rapidly fluctuating gain modulation, which is stronger in task-informative neurons and can be used to decode from neural activity after few training trials, consistent with observed behavior. In a simulated hierarchical neural network model, such labels are learned quickly and can be used to adapt downstream readout, even after several intervening processing stages. Consistently, we find the modulatory signal estimated in V1 is also present in the activity of simultaneously recorded MT units, and is again strongest in task-informative neurons. These results support the idea that co-modulation facilitates task-adaptive hierarchical information routing.
Diurnal temperature range as a key predictor of plants’ elevation ranges globally
Authors: Gallou Arnaud , Jump Alistair S. , Lynn Joshua S. , Field Richard , Irl Severin D. H. , Steinbauer Manuel J. , Beierkuhnlein Carl , Chen Jan-Chang , Chou Chang-Hung , Hemp Andreas , Kidane Yohannes , König Christian , Kreft Holger , Naqinezhad Alireza , Nowak Arkadiusz , Nuppenau Jan-Niklas , Trigas Panayiotis , Price Jonathan P. , Roland Carl A. , Schweiger Andreas H. , Weigelt Patrick , Flantua Suzette G. A. , Grytnes John-Arvid
Published: November 2023

A prominent hypothesis in ecology is that larger species ranges are found in more variable climates because species develop broader environmental tolerances, predicting a positive range size-temperature variability relationship. However, this overlooks the extreme temperatures that variable climates impose on species, with upper or lower thermal limits more likely to be exceeded. Accordingly, we propose the ‘temperature range squeeze’ hypothesis, predicting a negative range size-temperature variability relationship. We test these contrasting predictions by relating 88,000 elevation range sizes of vascular plants in 44 mountains to short- and long-term temperature variation. Consistent with our hypothesis, we find that species’ range size is negatively correlated with diurnal temperature range. Accurate predictions of short-term temperature variation will become increasingly important for extinction risk assessment in the future.
Engineered immunogens to elicit antibodies against conserved coronavirus epitopes
Authors: Kapingidza A. Brenda , Marston Daniel J. , Harris Caitlin , Wrapp Daniel , Winters Kaitlyn , Mielke Dieter , Xiaozhi Lu , Yin Qi , Foulger Andrew , Parks Rob , Barr Maggie , Newman Amanda , Schäfer Alexandra , Eaton Amanda , Flores Justine Mae , Harner Austin , Catanzaro Nicholas J. , Mallory Michael L. , Mattocks Melissa D. , Beverly Christopher , Rhodes Brianna , Mansouri Katayoun , Van Itallie Elizabeth , Vure Pranay , Dunn Brooke , Keyes Taylor , Stanfield-Oakley Sherry , Woods Christopher W. , Petzold Elizabeth A. , Walter Emmanuel B. , Wiehe Kevin , Edwards Robert J. , Montefiori David C. , Ferrari Guido , Baric Ralph , Cain Derek W. , Saunders Kevin O. , Haynes Barton F. , Azoitei Mihai L.
Published: November 2023

Immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 primarily target the receptor binding domain of the spike protein, which continually mutates to escape acquired immunity. Other regions in the spike S2 subunit, such as the stem helix and the segment encompassing residues 815-823 adjacent to the fusion peptide, are highly conserved across sarbecoviruses and are recognized by broadly reactive antibodies, providing hope that vaccines targeting these epitopes could offer protection against both current and emergent viruses. Here we employ computational modeling to design scaffolded immunogens that display the spike 815-823 peptide and the stem helix epitopes without the distracting and immunodominant receptor binding domain. These engineered proteins bind with high affinity and specificity to the mature and germline versions of previously identified broadly protective human antibodies. Epitope scaffolds interact with both sera and isolated monoclonal antibodies with broadly reactivity from individuals with pre-existing SARS-CoV-2 immunity. When used as immunogens, epitope scaffolds elicit sera with broad betacoronavirus reactivity and protect as “boosts” against live virus challenge in mice, illustrating their potential as components of a future pancoronavirus vaccine.
Augmenting interpretable models with large language models during training
Authors: Singh Chandan , Askari Armin , Caruana Rich , Gao Jianfeng
Published: November 2023

Recent large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, have demonstrated remarkable prediction performance for a growing array of tasks. However, their proliferation into high-stakes domains and compute-limited settings has created a burgeoning need for interpretability and efficiency. We address this need by proposing Aug-imodels, a framework for leveraging the knowledge learned by LLMs to build extremely efficient and interpretable prediction models. Aug-imodels use LLMs during fitting but not during inference, allowing complete transparency and often a speed/memory improvement of greater than 1000x for inference compared to LLMs. We explore two instantiations of Aug-imodels in natural-language processing: Aug-Linear, which augments a linear model with decoupled embeddings from an LLM and Aug-Tree, which augments a decision tree with LLM feature expansions. Across a variety of text-classification datasets, both outperform their non-augmented, interpretable counterparts. Aug-Linear can even outperform much larger models, e.g. a 6-billion parameter GPT-J model, despite having 10,000x fewer parameters and being fully transparent. We further explore Aug-imodels in a natural-language fMRI study, where they generate interesting interpretations from scientific data.
Quantifying global colonization pressures of alien vertebrates from wildlife trade
Authors: Li Yiming , Blackburn Tim M. , Luo Zexu , Song Tianjian , Watters Freyja , Li Wenhao , Deng Teng , Luo Zhenhua , Li Yuanyi , Du Jiacong , Niu Meiling , Zhang Jun , Zhang Jinyu , Yang Jiaxue , Wang Siqi
Published: November 2023

The global trade in live wildlife elevates the risk of biological invasions by increasing colonization pressure (the number of alien species introduced to an area). Yet, our understanding of species traded as aliens remains limited. We created a comprehensive global database on live terrestrial vertebrate trade and use it to investigate the number of traded alien species, and correlates of establishment richness for aliens. We identify 7,780 species involved in this trade globally. Approximately 85.7% of these species are traded as aliens, and 12.2% of aliens establish populations. Countries with greater trading power, higher incomes, and larger human populations import more alien species. These countries, along with island nations, emerge as hotspots for establishment richness of aliens. Colonization pressure and insularity consistently promote establishment richness across countries, while socio-economic factors impact specific taxa. Governments must prioritize policies to mitigate the release or escape of traded animals and protect global biosecurity.
Endogenous noise of neocortical neurons correlates with atypical sensory response variability in the Fmr1−/y mouse model of autism
Authors: Bhaskaran Arjun A. , Gauvrit Théo , Vyas Yukti , Bony Guillaume , Ginger Melanie , Frick Andreas
Published: November 2023

Excessive neural variability of sensory responses is a hallmark of atypical sensory processing in autistic individuals with cascading effects on other core autism symptoms but unknown neurobiological substrate. Here, by recording neocortical single neuron activity in a well-established mouse model of Fragile X syndrome and autism, we characterized atypical sensory processing and probed the role of endogenous noise sources in exaggerated response variability in males. The analysis of sensory stimulus evoked activity and spontaneous dynamics, as well as neuronal features, reveals a complex cellular and network phenotype. Neocortical sensory information processing is more variable and temporally imprecise. Increased trial-by-trial and inter-neuronal response variability is strongly related to key endogenous noise features, and may give rise to behavioural sensory responsiveness variability in autism. We provide a novel preclinical framework for understanding the sources of endogenous noise and its contribution to core autism symptoms, and for testing the functional consequences for mechanism-based manipulation of noise.
Influx of nitrogen-rich material from the outer Solar System indicated by iron nitride in Ryugu samples
Authors: Matsumoto Toru , Noguchi Takaaki , Miyake Akira , Igami Yohei , Haruta Mitsutaka , Seto Yusuke , Miyahara Masaaki , Tomioka Naotaka , Saito Hikaru , Hata Satoshi , Harries Dennis , Takigawa Aki , Nakauchi Yusuke , Tachibana Shogo , Nakamura Tomoki , Matsumoto Megumi , Ishii Hope A. , Bradley John P. , Ohtaki Kenta , Dobrică Elena , Leroux Hugues , Le Guillou Corentin , Jacob Damien , de la Peña Francisco , Laforet Sylvain , Marinova Maya , Langenhorst Falko , Beck Pierre , Phan Thi H. V. , Rebois Rolando , Abreu Neyda M. , Gray Jennifer , Zega Thomas , Zanetta Pierre-M. , Thompson Michelle S. , Stroud Rhonda , Burgess Kate , Cymes Brittany A. , Bridges John C. , Hicks Leon , Lee Martin R. , Daly Luke , Bland Phil A. , Zolensky Michael E. , Frank David R. , Martinez James , Tsuchiyama Akira , Yasutake Masahiro , Matsuno Junya , Okumura Shota , Mitsukawa Itaru , Uesugi Kentaro , Uesugi Masayuki , Takeuchi Akihisa , Sun Mingqi , Enju Satomi , Michikami Tatsuhiro , Yurimoto Hisayoshi , Okazaki Ryuji , Yabuta Hikaru , Naraoka Hiroshi , Sakamoto Kanako , Yada Toru , Nishimura Masahiro , Nakato Aiko , Miyazaki Akiko , Yogata Kasumi , Abe Masanao , Okada Tatsuaki , Usui Tomohiro , Yoshikawa Makoto , Saiki Takanao , Tanaka Satoshi , Terui Fuyuto , Nakazawa Satoru , Watanabe Sei-ichiro , Tsuda Yuichi
Published: November 2023

Large amounts of nitrogen compounds, such as ammonium salts, may be stored in icy bodies and comets, but the transport of these nitrogen-bearing solids into the near-Earth region is not well understood. Here, we report the discovery of iron nitride on magnetite grains from the surface of the near-Earth C-type carbonaceous asteroid Ryugu, suggesting inorganic nitrogen fixation. Micrometeoroid impacts and solar wind irradiation may have caused the selective loss of volatile species from major iron-bearing minerals to form the metallic iron. Iron nitride is a product of nitridation of the iron metal by impacts of micrometeoroids that have higher nitrogen contents than the CI chondrites. The impactors are probably primitive materials with origins in the nitrogen-rich reservoirs in the outer Solar System. Our observation implies that the amount of nitrogen available for planetary formation and prebiotic reactions in the inner Solar System is greater than previously recognized.
The evolution of short- and long-range weapons for bacterial competition
Authors: Booth Sean C. , Smith William P. J. , Foster Kevin R.
Published: November 2023

Bacteria possess a diverse range of mechanisms for inhibiting competitors, including bacteriocins, tailocins, type VI secretion systems and contact-dependent inhibition (CDI). Why bacteria have evolved such a wide array of weapon systems remains a mystery. Here we develop an agent-based model to compare short-range weapons that require cell–cell contact, with long-range weapons that rely on diffusion. Our model predicts that contact weapons are useful when an attacking strain is outnumbered, facilitating invasion and establishment. By contrast, ranged weapons tend to be effective only when attackers are abundant. We test our predictions with the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which naturally carries multiple weapons, including CDI and diffusing tailocins. As predicted, short-range CDI can function at low and high frequencies, while long-range tailocins require high frequency and cell density to function effectively. Head-to-head competition experiments with the two weapon types further support our predictions: a tailocin attacker defeats CDI only when it is numerically dominant, but then we find it can be devastating. Finally, we show that the two weapons work well together when one strain employs both. We conclude that short- and long-range weapons serve different functions and allow bacteria to fight both as individuals and as a group.
The anticancer mechanisms of exopolysaccharide from Weissella cibaria D-2 on colorectal cancer via apoptosis induction
Authors: Du Yurong , Liu Lei , Yan Weiliang , Li Yang , Li Yuanzhe , Cui Kang , Yu Pu , Gu Zhuoyu , Zhang WanCun , Feng Jianguo , Li Zhen , Tang Hao , Du Yabing , Zhao Huan
Published: November 2023

Exopolysaccharide (EPS) from Weissella cibaria has been devoted to the study of food industry. However, the anticancer activity of W. cibaria derived EPS has not yet been investigated. In this study, we obtained the EPS from W. cibaria D-2 isolated from the feces of healthy infants and found that D-2-EPS, a homopolysaccharide with porous web like structure, could effectively inhibit the proliferation, migration, invasion and induce cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. In HT-29 tumor xenografts, D-2-EPS significantly retarded tumor growth without obvious cytotoxicity to normal organs. Furthermore, we revealed that D-2-EPS promoted the apoptosis of CRC cells by increasing the levels of Fas, FasL and activating Caspase-8/Caspase-3, indicating that D-2-EPS might induce apoptosis through the extrinsic Fas/FasL pathway. Taken together, the D-2-EPS has the potential to be developed as a nutraceutical or drug to prevent and treat colorectal cancer.
Ambipolar surface conduction in oxygen sub-stoichiometric molybdenum oxide films
Authors: Soultati Anastasia , Aidinis Konstantinos , Chroneos Alexander , Vasilopoulou Maria , Davazoglou Dimitris
Published: November 2023

The surface electric conduction in amorphous and crystallized molybdenum oxide films was studied as a function of electronic structure by current–voltage and simultaneous spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements on structures of the kind Al/Molybdenum oxide (MoOx)/Al, at temperatures up to 400 °C and in ambient air. At room temperature, both amorphous and crystalline MoOx samples were found to be sub-stoichiometric in oxygen. The random distribution of oxygen vacancies and the imperfect atomic ordering induced the creation of an intermediate band (IB) located near the valence band and of individual electronic gap states. At temperatures below 300 °C, the conduction was found to exhibit ambipolar character in which electrons and holes participated, the former moving in the conduction band and the latter in the IB and though gap states. Above 300 °C, due to samples gradual oxidation and improvement of atomic ordering (samples crystallization), the density of states in the IB and the gap gradually decreased. The above in their turn resulted in the gradual suppression of the ambipolar character of the conduction, which at 400 °C was completely suppressed and became similar to that of ordinary n-type semiconductor. The above phenomena were found to be reversible, so as the semiconducting MoOx samples were returning to room temperature the ambipolarity of the conduction was gradually re-appearing giving rise to an unusual phenomenon of “metallic” temperature variation of electrical resistance when electrons were injected.
Semiconductivity induced by spin–orbit coupling in Pb9Cu(PO4)6O
Authors: Bai Hua , Ye Jianrong , Gao Lei , Zeng Chunhua , Liu Wuming
Published: November 2023

Recently, a possible room-temperature superconductor known as LK-99 (Pb10-xCux(PO4)6O (0.9 < x < 1.1)) has sparked a wave of research. However, many experimental works have proven that it is a semiconductor. At the same time, many theoretical works have reached the conclusion that it is a flat band metal. The inconsistency between theoretical and experimental works may be caused by neglecting the spin–orbit coupling effect in calculations. We performed calculations of electronic structure of Pb9Cu(PO4)6O with spin–orbit coupling, and the results show that it's indeed a semiconductor, not a metal. In the ferromagnetic state it is an indirect-bandgap semiconductor with a bandgap of 292 meV. While in the antiferromagnetic-A state, it is a direct-bandgap semiconductor with a bandgap of 300 meV. Our work provides a possible explanation for the contradictions of previous experiments and theories, and provides some theoretical basis for the potential application of Pb9Cu(PO4)6O as a semiconductor.
Complex dynamics of induced vortex formation and thermal-fluid coupling in tri-hybrid nanofluid under localized magnetic field: a novel study
Authors: Ahmad Shabbir , Ali Kashif , Castellanos Humberto Garcia , Aryanfar Yashar , Rashid Farhan Lafta , Hendy Ahmed S. , Deifalla Ahmed , Ragab Adham E. , Khan Muhammad , Gomaa Heba Ghareeb
Published: November 2023

Hybrid nanofluids offer higher stability, synergistic effects, and better heat transfer compared to simple nanofluids. Their higher thermal conductivity, lower viscosity, and interaction with magnetic fields make them ideal for various applications, including materials science, transportation, medical technology, energy, and fundamental physics. The governing partial differential equations are numerically solved by employing a finite volume approach, and the effects of various parameters on the nanofluid flow and thermal characteristics are systematically examined from the simulations based on a self-developed MATLAB code. The parameters included magnetic field strength, the Reynolds number, the nanoparticle volume fraction, and the number and position of the strips in which the magnetic field is localized. It has been noted that the magnetized field induces the spinning of the tri-hybrid nanoparticles, which generates the intricate structure of vortices in the flow. The local skin friction (CfRe) and the Nusselt number (Nu) increase significantly when the magnetic field is intensified. Moreover, adding more nanoparticles in the flow enhances both Nu and CfRe, but with different effects for different nanoparticles. Silver (Ag) shows the highest increase in both Nu (52%) and CfRe (110%), indicating strong thermal-fluid coupling. Alumina (Al2O3) and Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) show lower increases in both Nu (43% and 34%) and CfRe (14% and 10%), indicating weaker coupling in the flow. Finally, compared with the localized one, the uniform magnetic field has a minor effect on the flow and temperature distributions.
Distilling causality between physical activity traits and obesity via Mendelian randomization
Authors: Wang Zhe , Davey Smith George , Loos Ruth J. F. , den Hoed Marcel
Published: November 2023

Background

Whether obesity is a cause or consequence of low physical activity levels and more sedentary time has not yet been fully elucidated. Better instrumental variables and a more thorough consideration of potential confounding variables that may influence the causal inference between physical activity and obesity are needed.

Methods

Leveraging results from our recent genome-wide association study for leisure time moderate-to-vigorous intensity (MV) physical activity and screen time, we here disentangle the causal relationships between physical activity, sedentary behavior, education—defined by years of schooling—and body mass index (BMI), using multiple univariable and multivariable Mendelian Randomization (MR) approaches.

Results

Univariable MR analyses suggest bidirectional causal effects of physical activity and sedentary behavior with BMI. However, multivariable MR analyses that take years of schooling into account suggest that more MV physical activity causes a lower BMI, and a higher BMI causes more screen time, but not vice versa. In addition, more years of schooling causes higher levels of MV physical activity, less screen time, and lower BMI.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our results highlight the beneficial effect of education on improved health and suggest that a more physically active lifestyle leads to lower BMI, while sedentary behavior is a consequence of higher BMI.
Tracking of structural defects induced by Eu-doping in β-Ag2MoO4: their influences on electrical properties
Authors: Macchi Carlos , Petinardi Guilherme Magalhaes , Freire Leonardo Almeida , Castro Miriam Susana , Aldao Celso Manuel , Luiz Thaís Marcial , Moura Francisco , Simões Alexandre Zirpoli , Moreno Henrique , Longo Elson , Somoza Alberto , Assis Marcelo , Ponce Miguel Adolfo
Published: November 2023

In this study, several methods were employed to investigate the electrical characteristics of β-Ag2MoO4 systems, both Eu-doped and undoped, synthesized using the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method.
Coral-like CoSe2@N-doped carbon with a high initial coulombic efficiency as advanced anode materials for Na-ion batteries
Authors: Lin Zhiya , Wu Jiasheng , Ye Qianwen , Chen Yulong , Jia Hai , Huang Xiaohui , Ying Shaoming
Published: November 2023

Na-ion batteries (NIBs) have attracted great interest as a possible technology for grid-scale energy storage for the past few years owing to the wide distribution, low cost and environmental friendliness of sodium resources.
Investigating the effects of PFOA accumulation and depuration on specific phospholipids in zebrafish through imaging mass spectrometry
Authors: Shi Qiuyue , Wan Zhengfen , Lu Shaoyong , Fang Cheng , Yan Changzhou , Zhang Xian
Published: November 2023

The study utilized MALDI-TOF-IMS to reveal PFOA's impact on zebrafish phospholipids (PC, DG, PA, PG, SM, TG), indicating reversible and irreversible changes in tissue, mapping spatial distribution during exposure and depuration.
n-Type boron β-diketone-containing conjugated polymers for high-performance room temperature ammonia sensors
Authors: Song Weichen , Sun Jiankun , Wang Qian , Wu Han , Zheng Kunpeng , Wang Binbin , Wang Zhong , Long Xiaojing
Published: November 2023

A novel strategy to modulate the charge distribution of active centers on ammonia sensing materials is reported. Boron β-diketone can effectively modulate surface electronic states, identifying the electron-deficient B ← O units as active centers.
Artificial enzyme innovations in electrochemical devices: advancing wearable and portable sensing technologies
Authors: Zheng Long , Cao Mengzhu , Du Yan , Liu Quanyi , Emran Mohammed Y. , Kotb Ahmed , Sun Mimi , Ma Chong-Bo , Zhou Ming
Published: November 2023

With the rapid evolution of sensing technologies, the integration of nanoscale catalysts, particularly those mimicking enzymatic functions, into electrochemical devices has surfaced as a pivotal advancement.
Graphene-based crown-cork-like macrostructures
Authors: Hiratochi Kenta , Terada Daisuke , Suga Hiroshi , Okada Mitsuhiro , Bando Kyoko , Kodaira Tetsuya , Yamada Takatoshi , Shimizu Tetsuo , Saiki Koichiro , Kubo Toshitaka
Published: November 2023

Novel graphene-based macrostructures formed by CVD method employing a solid-state reaction using Fe as both a catalyst and a substrate.
Effect of “magic chlorine” in drug discovery: an in silico approach
Authors: Joshi Sravani , Srivastava Ruby
Published: November 2023

In silico studies to see the “magic chloro effect” in drugs with physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties.
Anhydrous proton conductor consisting of protamine–monododecyl phosphate composite with self-assembled structure
Authors: Yamada Masanori , Yoshihara Naoaki
Published: November 2023

We prepared an anhydrous proton conductive protamine–monododecyl phosphate composite by mixing protamine (P) and a monododecyl phosphate (MDP).
Design and evaluation of a microrectification platform using 3D printing
Authors: Zheng Yuting , Fang Guandong , Fan Zhuoqin , Zhang Haomiao , Wang Jingdai , Yang Yongrong
Published: November 2023

We present a microrectification platform to separate binary mixtures using 3D printed structures for enhanced mass transfer. Our approach (experiment and simulation) offers an effective solution for separation of liquids with close boiling points.
Resonant tunneling induced large magnetoresistance in vertical van der Waals magnetic tunneling junctions based on type-II spin-gapless semiconductor VSi2P4
Authors: Han Jiangchao , Zhou Daming , Yang Wei , Lv Chen , Wang Xinhe , Wei Guodong , Zhao Weisheng , Lin Xiaoyang , Sang Shengbo
Published: November 2023

Schematics (a and b) and eigenstates (c and d) of 1H (a and c) and 3H (b and d) devices.
Ultrafast nonlinear optical properties of MTe2 (M = V and Ta) and their application as broadband saturable absorbers
Authors: Zhang Wenyao , Li Zichen , Leng Xudong , Jing Qun , Wen Qiao
Published: November 2023

Two novel saturable absorbers based on MTe2 (M = V and Ta) were successfully fabricated and the nonlinear optical response of these materials was thoroughly investigated.
Single-molecule non-volatile memories: an overview and future perspectives
Authors: Si Wei , Li Junhao , Li Guangwu , Jia Chuancheng , Guo Xuefeng
Published: November 2023

A single-molecule non-volatile memory is a crucial component of future nanoscale information storage. This article provides an overview of the design, mechanism and prospects of single-molecule non-volatile memories.
Quasi 3D electronic structures of Dion–Jacobson layered perovskites with exceptional short interlayer distances
Authors: Maniadi Maria , Mercier Nicolas , Skorokhod Alla , Ben Haj Salah Maroua , Bidaud Pierre , Hudhomme Piétrick , Quarti Claudio , Li Wei , Beljonne David , Even Jacky , Katan Claudine , Stoumpos Constantinos C.
Published: November 2023

A new I-based (I(org)) dication affords DJ layered perovskites exhibiting very short I(ap)⋯I(ap) interlayer distances (<3.90 Å) and strong dispersion bands in the direction perpendicular to layers revealing a quasi 3D electronic structure.
The Effect of Prosodic Timing Structure on Unison Production in People With Aphasia
Authors: Kershenbaum Ayelet M. , Galassi Maria , Shattuck-Hufnagel Stefanie , Bachan Savetrie , Zipse Lauryn
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

Unison production is a common aphasia treatment technique in which the clinician and the person with aphasia (PWA) produce phrases aloud together. It can be implemented using a typical “conversational,” syntax-influenced prosodic timing structure, or with a “metrical,” beat-based timing structure, but to date no study has directly compared these two approaches. This study compared the effects of metrical versus conversational prosodic timing during unison production on the (a) accuracy of participants' spoken output and (b) timing alignment of participants' productions with the stimuli.

Method:

PWAs and controls listened to conversationally timed and metrically timed sentences and repeated them in unison with audio recordings. Productions were transcribed and scored in two ways: (a) Accuracy was calculated as the percentage of correctly produced syllables, and (b) timing alignment was determined by extracting the voice onset moment of identical target syllables in the unison stimuli and participant productions in both conditions and comparing the corresponding time points.

Results:

Metrical timing yielded a greater number of accurate syllables in both groups, with larger effect in PWAs than in controls. Both groups exhibited more anticipatory, less variable timing when speaking along with metrical stimuli, though evidence of such prediction was also present in the conversational condition.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that unison production works via entrainment—a process that utilizes prediction to guide synchronous production of spoken output. Metrically regular stimuli may facilitate this process as they are more rhythmically predictable. Future work will examine key behavioral variables that predict benefit from unison production and metrical timing.
A Balancing Act: How School-Based Speech-Language Pathologists Navigate Their Efforts Related to Individual Education Plans and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support
Authors: Sylvan Lesley , Kingsley Harmony , Bartolett Grace , Gouck Madeleine
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in public schools have a key role in assessment, intervention, program design, compliance, and prevention. They address the needs of students of all ages and disorders, ensure the educational relevance of their services, and provide culturally competent care. Given the scope of their work, SLPs must balance and prioritize their varying responsibilities in school settings. This study investigates how SLPs navigate their involvement with the prevention-oriented framework Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) while providing direct support to students with disabilities through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Method:

This study took place in a district with a stated goal for the academic year of deepening their involvement with the MTSS framework. Eight SLPs working in this rural district participated in a series of interviews over the course of the 2022–2023 school year. Qualitative data were collected about SLPs' motivations and evolving views related to MTSS.

Results:

While participants in this study were motivated to engage in MTSS because they viewed this framework as a useful mechanism to support students outside of special education, they were limited by time constraints and the challenges of forming collaborative relationships. Each participant navigated the process of balancing their efforts related to MTSS and IEPs in a unique way that reflected their specific setting and circumstances.

Conclusion:

This study directly investigated how SLPs navigate this balancing act in real time and provided a novel perspective on the potential synergies and disconnects between SLPs' efforts related to MTSS and their responsibilities related to providing appropriate speech-language services via IEPs.