bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DTX3L-mediated TIRR nuclear export and degradation regulates DNA repair pathway choice and PARP inhibitor sensitivity
Authors: Ye Qi , Ma Jian , Wang Zixi , Li Lei , Liu Tianjie , Wang Bin , Zhu Lizhe , Lei Yuzeshi , Xu Shan , Wang Ke , Jian Yanlin , Ma Bohan , Fan Yizeng , Liu Jing , Gao Yang , Huang Haojie , Li Lei
Published: December 2024

53BP1 plays an important role in DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair and this activity is negatively regulated by its interaction with Tudor interacting repair regulator (TIRR). However, how the TIRR-53BP1 repair axis is regulated in response to DNA damage remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that TIRR is translocated to the cytoplasm and degraded upon DNA damage. Ubiquitination of TIRR at lysine 187 by DTX3L is a critical process that regulates NHEJ pathway activity and PARP inhibitor sensitivity by facilitating XPO1-mediated TIRR nuclear export and degradation after DNA damage. We show that DTX3L is overexpressed in prostate cancers in patients and that decreased expression of TIRR due to DTX3L overexpression impairs the negative regulatory effect of TIRR on 53BP1, which consequently induces HR deficiency and chromosomal instability and sensitizes prostate cancer cells to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. Our work reveals a dual action of DTX3L on TIRR degradation and nuclear exportation and identifies DTX3L as an upstream regulator of the TIRR-53BP1 axis that governs DNA repair pathway choice and PARP inhibitor sensitivity. These findings suggest that TIRR ubiquitination and DTX3L overexpression could be viable biomarkers predicting PARP inhibitor sensitivity in cancers.
Siderophores as tools and treatments
Authors: Gräff Á. Tamás , Barry Sarah M.
Published: December 2024

In the search for iron, an essential element in many biochemical processes, microorganisms biosynthesise dedicated chelators, known as siderophores, to sequester iron from their environment and actively transport the siderophore complex into the cell. This process has been implicated in bacterial pathogenesis and exploited through siderophore-antibiotic conjugates as a method for selective antibiotic delivery. Here we review this Trojan-horse approach including design considerations and potential in diagnostics and infection imaging.
The transformation of agriculture towards a silicon improved sustainable and resilient crop production
Authors: Schaller Jörg , Webber Heidi , Ewert Frank , Stein Mathias , Puppe Daniel
Published: December 2024

Sustainable and resilient crop production is facing many challenges. The restoration of natural reactive silicon cycles offers an opportunity to improve sustainability through reducing phosphorus fertilizer use and to increase crops’ resilience to drought stress and pests. We therefore call upon farmers, agri-food-researchers, and policymakers to pave the road for transforming agriculture to a silicon-improved sustainable crop production, which represents a promising approach to achieve food security under global change.
Evaluation of the redox alteration in Duchenne muscular dystrophy model mice using in vivo DNP-MRI
Authors: Eto Hinako , Murata Masaharu , Kawano Takahito , Tachibana Yoko , Elhelaly Abdelazim Elsayed , Noda Yoshifumi , Kato Hiroki , Matsuo Masayuki , Hyodo Fuminori
Published: December 2024

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic muscular disease and is the most common type of muscular dystrophy in Japan. Noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for follow-up evaluation of myositis and muscular dystrophy, including DMD and inflammation is evaluated based on the increased muscle water as evaluated by T2-weighted MR images. However, in MDM, the redox status has not been evaluated non-invasively during the disease progression. We assessed the inflammation via the redox status in experimental animal disease models using in vivo dynamic nuclear polarization MRI (DNP-MRI) with a redox probe. The current study aimed to evaluate the skeletal muscle of mdx mice, a DMD model, in which muscle fiber necrosis, inflammation, and muscle regeneration were chronically repeated. Results showed that the reduction rate of Carbamoyl-PROXYL (CmP), one of the redox probes, radicals in mdx mice increased compared with that in normal mice. In vitro, more mitochondria or macrophages enhanced the radical form decay reaction by reducing CmP. Due to muscle fiber damage, the mdx mice had a lower mitochondrial concentration in the gastrocnemius muscle than the normal mice. However, the in vivo DNP-MRI results strongly reflected the increased reduction of CmP radicals by macrophages. In conclusion, in vivo DNP-MRI, a noninvasive imaging method is useful for locally evaluating skeletal muscle inflammation.
Histone methyltransferases MLL2 and SETD1A/B play distinct roles in H3K4me3 deposition during the transition from totipotency to pluripotency
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Sun Qiaoran , Liu Liang , Yang Shichun , Zhang Xia , Miao Yi-Liang , Liu Xin
Published: December 2024

In early mammalian embryogenesis, a shift from non-canonical histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) linked to transcriptional repression to canonical H3K4me3 indicating active promoters occurs during zygotic genome activation (ZGA). However, the mechanisms and roles of these H3K4me3 states in embryogenesis remain poorly understood. Our research reveals that the histone methyltransferase MLL2 is responsible for installing H3K4me3 (both non-canonical and canonical) in totipotent embryos, while a transition to SETD1A/B-deposited H3K4me3 occurs in pluripotent embryos. Interestingly, MLL2-mediated H3K4me3 operates independently of transcription, fostering a relaxed chromatin state conducive to totipotency rather than directly influencing transcription. Conversely, SETD1A/B-mediated H3K4me3, which depends on transcription, is crucial for facilitating expression of genes essential for pluripotency and pre-implantation development. Our findings highlight the role of the H3K4me3 transition, mediated by an MLL2-to-SETD1A/B relay mechanism, in the regulation of transition from totipotency to pluripotency during early embryogenesis.
Polyvinylpyrrolidone and 4-mercaptobenzoic acid-functionalized nickel nanoclusters for selective and sensitive detection of glutathione assisted by Fe3+
Authors: Mahmoud Ashraf M. , Alqarni Ali O. , Ali Ramadan , El-Wekil Mohamed M.
Published: December 2024

A novel PVP/4-MBA@Ni NCs fluorescent probe was developed for selective and sensitive detection of glutathione using ferric ion as an intermediate quencher.
Secondary sphere interactions modulate peroxynitrite scavenging by the E2 domain of amyloid precursor protein
Authors: Zuercher Eli C. , Poore Andrew T. , Prajapat Devendra , Palazzo Joseph , Thomas Alana , Birthright Caitlin , Lawrence Jack , Chen Ming , Tian Shiliang
Published: December 2024

Peroxynitrite (ONOO−) is a reactive nitrogen species causing cellular damage. The copper-binding E2 domain of amyloid precursor protein reduces ONOO−via single-electron transfer, highlighting its role in oxidative stress and Alzheimer's disease.
Zr4+-doped sodium manganese oxide: enhanced electrochemical performance as a cathode in sodium ion batteries
Authors: Kashyap Bristisnata , Dutta Dimple P. , Modak B. , Kumar Sanjay , Ravuri Balaji R.
Published: December 2024

Zr4+ doping proves beneficial for improving the electrochemical performance of Na4Mn2O5 cathodes.
A multi-centre metal-free COF@g-C3N4 catalyst assembled with covalent bonds for photocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Wang Xiang , Wang Zhenping , Liu Yanling , Peng Wanzhen , Fu Xiangyi , Zhou Jie , Han Lizhi , Hua Yingjie , Zhou Zi-Yan
Published: December 2024

Each component of a multi-centre metal-free catalyst is independent and exhibits synergistic behaviour, working in concert to complete photocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Correction: Highly efficient yellow emission and abnormal thermal quenching in Mn2+-doped Rb4CdCl6
Authors: Huang Dayu , Ouyang Qiuyun , Kong Youchao , Wang Bo , Cheng Ziyong , Al Kheraif Abdulaziz A. , Lian Hongzhou , Lin Jun
Published: December 2024

Correction for ‘Highly efficient yellow emission and abnormal thermal quenching in Mn2+-doped Rb4CdCl6’ by Dayu Huang et al., Dalton Trans., 2023, 52, 5715–5723, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3DT00453H.
Estimation of neighborhood scale PM2.5 impacts in rural towns in the Purepecha region of Mexico
Authors: He Yucheng , Nishandar Sanika R. , Edwards Rufus D. , Olaya-García Belén , Serrano-Medrano Montserrat , Ruiz-García Víctor M. , Berrueta Víctor , Princevac Marko , Masera Omar
Published: December 2024

PM2.5 concentrations from fuel stacking scenarios in Cucochucho, Purepecha highlands of Mexico. The study integrates local emissions and neighborhood pollution impacts to estimate air quality.
Recent technological advances in food packaging: sensors, automation, and application
Authors: Palanisamy Yazhiniyan , Kadirvel Vijayasri , Ganesan Nandhini Devi
Published: December 2024

The advancements in the food packaging sector include smart sensors for detecting freshness, automation for efficiency, and sustainable applications for enhancing food safety and quality.
Eco-friendly integration of gold nanoparticles into additive manufacturing filaments: advancing conductivity and electrochemical performance
Authors: Bernalte Elena , Augusto Karen K. L. , Crapnell Robert D. , Andrews Hayley G. , Fatibello-Filho Orlando , Banks Craig E.
Published: December 2024

This work reports the inclusion of gold nanoparticles within conductive additive manufacturing filament for an improved electrochemical and electroanalytical performance.
Development of titania coatings containing calcium, phosphorus, and silver, applied via the sol–gel method and dip-coating technique
Authors: Opavová Karolína , Horkavcová Diana , Jablonská Eva , Mrázková Lucie , Bašusová Anna
Published: December 2024

This research focuses on the development of titania coatings containing calcium, phosphorus, and silver, prepared using the sol–gel method and applied via dip-coating technique for use in biomedical implants.
Using assurance frameworks to manage the risks and uncertainties of an energy sector digital spine
Authors: Thraves Henry James , Theoharis Anna , Pang Wai Yan Sonia , Faiz Graham , Celnik Matthew
Published: December 2024

The energy transition requires a profound transformation of the entire energy system. The adoption of diverse, distributed renewable energy sources into the energy mix requires many assets, actions, stakeholders, and decisions to communicate with each other. The digital spine can serve as the energy system's connective tissue, enabling secure data sharing and enhancing visibility across all energy stakeholders. This will promote collaboration, innovation, and informed decision‐making within the UK's energy sector. However, significant risks accompany this shift, including data quality and security, organisational readiness, and the complexity and scalability of the digital infrastructure. This report will discuss these risks and suggest mitigation measures to promote trust in the digital spine. Only by achieving stakeholder buy‐in through trust of the digital spine will this digital technology achieve widespread acceptance. Digital assurance helps to generate an ecosystem of trust built on transparent arguments about consequences and uncertainty for digital technologies, such as the digital spine. DNV believes that their suite of recommend practises can help to mitigate risks relating to the digital spine. The report concludes by outlining the next steps towards realising a digital spine, emphasising the role of independent assurance frameworks in achieving this goal.
Nutrition Management in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: An Exploration of Knowledge Gaps and Challenges
Authors: Chowdhury Sumit Roy , Sahu Priyanka , Bindra Ashish
Published: December 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) stands as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children, as evidenced by the most contemporary statistics. Undernutrition in pediatric TBI (PTBI) leads to increased mortality, heightened infectious complications, and more severe neurological consequences. Therefore, timely and effective nutritional therapy is crucial in managing PTBI to improve patient prognosis and outcomes. Limited investigations have been conducted on the nutritional requirements specific to these patients and management often relies on data from adults with TBI for guidance. We have meticulously searched different databases to compile a broad range of the most up-to-date clinical research. This review analyses the challenges associated with providing nutritional support to children with TBI and provides a clearer understanding of the current evidence-based recommendations for optimal nutritional therapy. The review primarily focuses on recommendations and suggestions for energy requirements, nutritional assessment, initiation of nutrition, various feeding methods offered, identification of malnutrition, the impact of malnutrition on patient outcomes, and areas of further research.
The Fragile Brain: Understanding Frailty in Neuroanesthesia
Authors: Monteiro Joseph N. , Thakur Nimisha , Goraksha Shwetal
Published: December 2024

Frailty is a multidimensional geriatric syndrome characterized by decreased physiological reserve, making patients more vulnerable to stressors, such as surgery and anesthesia. In neuroanesthesia, frailty is particularly relevant due to the high-risk nature of neurosurgical procedures and the potential for significant perioperative stress. Although there are several studies on the implications of frailty in spine surgery, there are lacunae in the knowledge understanding and frailty risk assessment in the cranial cohort of neurosurgical patients. A systemic review process with a qualitative data analysis of the available literature was used to extract data for this review. By identifying, acknowledging, and addressing the knowledge gaps in our understanding of frailty, specifically the cranial cohort, and developing a neuroanesthesia-specific frailty risk index, along with establishing best practice strategy guidelines and institutional protocols, neuroanesthesiologists will enhance and optimize outcomes.
Optical conductivity of monocrystalline gadolinium
Authors: Gnezdilov V. P. , Nikol’skii G. S. , Beznosov A. B. , Epifanova K. I.
Published: December 2024

The optical conductivity of monocrystalline gadolinium has been measured in the energy region 0.5–3.1 eV, for temperatures of 4.2, 77, and 293°K. The results obtained are compared with previously published results. It is shown that the absorption band at an energy of 0.66 eV in the optical conductivity spectrum of gadolinium (with EIC) disappears with destruction of the magnetic order and, therefore, cannot be explained by interband transitions.
Mechanism of phase transition in monoclinic potassium–dysprosium tungstenate
Authors: Skorobogatova I. V. , Savchenko E. M.
Published: December 2024

The observed anomaly in the temperature dependence of the position of lines in the absorption spectrum of KDy(WO4)2 is explained by the occurrence of a CJTE-type (cooperative Jahn–Teller effect) phase transition. It is also demonstrated that only Ci1 can be the space group of a KDy(WO4)2 crystal at temperature below 10°K.
Evaluation of the application effect of the continuous care model after radical prostatectomy based on IKAP theory
Authors: Wang Lixia , Hu Yuanchao , Wang Shunfeng , Hu Dongping , Wang Yajun
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a continuous nursing model based on the information-knowledge-attitude-practice (IKAP) theory for patients after radical prostatectomy. Methods: Data were collected from July 2022 to August 2023, involving 104 patients from the Department of Urology at a hospital in Dongyang, Zhejiang Province. Patients were divided into IKAP and routine groups, each starting with 52 individuals and concluding with 47 effective cases. The routine group received standard postoperative care, while the IKAP group received care through a continuous nursing model based on the IKAP theory in addition to routine care. We compared disease awareness scores (acceptance, helplessness, and perception), prostate symptoms [International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS)], urinary incontinence status (ICIQ-SF score), anxiety levels [Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) score], quality of life (SF-12 score), self-management efficacy [Strategies Used by People to Promote Health (SUPPH) score], and compliance behaviors (medication adherence, daily exercise, functional exercise, and regular follow-up) between the two groups. Results: The acceptance and perception scores of the IKAP group after nursing were higher than those in the conventional group, and the scores of helplessness were lower than those in the conventional group, with both P < 0.05. The IPSS score and ICI-Q-SF score after nursing care in the IKAP group were lower than those in the conventional group, with P < 0.05. The SAS score after nursing care in the IKAP group was lower than that in the conventional group, and the SF-12 score was higher than that in the conventional group, with a P < 0.05. The scores of positive attitude, self-stress reduction, and self-decision-making on the SUPPH scale after nursing care in the IKAP group were higher than those in the conventional group, with all P < 0.05. The implementation rates of medication compliance, daily exercise, functional exercise, and regular follow-up in the IKAP group were higher than those in the conventional group, with a P < 0.05. Conclusion: The continuous nursing model based on IKAP theory significantly improves disease cognition, reduces prostate symptoms and urinary incontinence, alleviates anxiety, enhances quality of life, boosts self-management efficacy, and improves medical compliance behaviors in patients after radical prostatectomy. This model is highly effective in promoting postoperative recovery and is worthy of promotion and application.
The unmarked fixed segmentism in Chinese
reduplication
Authors: Yin Yuxia
Published: December 2024

Reduplication often involves fixed segmentism, which includes
invariant segments, tones, or features that are not copied from the base. This
paper focuses on phonologically unmarked fixed segmentism in the Chinese
language and argues for base-reduplicant correspondence in reduplication. We
examine three types of fixed segmentism, including the onset /l/, the nucleus
/i/ or /ə/, and the coda /ʔ/ or /ŋ/. After surveying the data, we argue that
these segments have a phonological basis falling under the Optimality Theory
(OT) rubric of the emergence of the unmarked (TETU). We argue that while fixed
segmentism of this phonological type poses challenges to OT analyses, such as
Morphological Doubling Theory (MDT), which do not acknowledge the distinction
between the base and the reduplicant and their correspondence, it can be
accounted for within correspondence theory, given that the base and reduplicant
have an asymmetrical phonological relation to the input.
Bosonic construction of CKP tau function
Authors: Wang Shen , Guan Wenchuang , Cheng Jipeng
Published: December 2024

The CKP tau function has been an important topic in mathematical physics. In this paper, the inverse of vacuum expectation value of exponential of certain bosonic fields, is showed to be the CKP tau function given by Chang and Wu, in the language of CKP Darboux transformation. In fact, computation of the above vacuum expectation value is usually quite difficult, since the square of bosonic fields is usually not zero. Here the corresponding vacuum expectation value is understood as successive application of CKP Darboux transformations, so that we can compute it by using the methods of integrable systems, where a useful formula is given. For applications, we construct solutions of KdV hierarchy by vacuum expectation value of bosonic fields, by the fact that KdV hierarchy is the 2–reduction of CKP hierarchy.
Infinitely many new solutions for singularly perturbed Schrödinger equations
Authors: Li Benniao , Long Wei , Yang Jianfu
Published: December 2024

This paper deals with the existence of solutions for the following perturbed Schrödinger equation

−

ε

2

Δ
u
+
V

(
x
)

u
=

|

u

|

p
−
2

u
,

in 

R

N

,

where ɛ is a parameter,

N
⩾
3

,

p
∈
(
2
,

2
N

N
−
2

)

, and V(x) is a potential function in

R

N

. We demonstrate an interesting ‘dichotomy’ phenomenon for concentrating solutions of the above Schrödinger equation. More specifically, we construct many new solutions with peaks locating both in the bounded domain and near infinity, which fulfils the profile of the concentration compactness. Moreover, this approach can be extended to solve other related problems.
Interpreting DESI's evidence for evolving dark energy
Authors: Cortês Marina , Liddle Andrew R.
Published: December 2024

The latest results on baryon acoustic oscillations from DESI (Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument), when combined with cosmic microwave background and supernova data, show indications of a deviation from a cosmological constant in favour of evolving dark energy. Use of a pivot scale for the equation of state w shows that this evidence is concentrated in the derivative of w rather than its mean offset from -1, indicating a new cosmic coincidence where the mean equation of state matches that of the ΛCDM model precisely in the region probed by the observations. An equivalent way to express this is to say that the dark energy hits the maximum value that it will ever achieve within the observed window. We argue that conclusions on dark energy evolution are strongly driven by the assumed parameter priors and that this coincidence, which we are naming the PhantomX coincidence (where X stands for crossing), may be a signature of this.
The role of magnetospheric current sheets in pair enrichment and ultra-high energy proton acceleration in M87*
Authors: Stathopoulos S.I. , Petropoulou M. , Sironi L. , Giannios D.
Published: December 2024

Recent advances in numerical simulations of magnetically arrested accretion onto supermassive black holes have shed light on the formation and dynamics of magnetospheric current sheets near the black hole horizon. By considering the pair magnetization σ

e
in the upstream region and the mass accretion rate ṁ (in units of the Eddington mass accretion rate) as free parameters we estimate the strength of the magnetic field and develop analytical models, motivated by recent three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations, to describe the populations of relativistic electrons and positrons (pairs) in the reconnection region.
Applying our model to M87*, we numerically compute the non-thermal photon spectra for various values of σ

e
. We show that pairs that are accelerated up to the synchrotron radiation-limited energy while meandering across both sides of the current sheet, can produce MeV flares with luminosity of ∼ 1041 erg s-1 — independent of σ

e
— for a black hole accreting at ṁ=10-5. Pairs that are trapped in the transient current sheet can produce X-ray counterparts to the MeV flares, lasting about a day for current sheets with length of a few gravitational radii. We also show that the upstream plasma can be enriched due to photon-photon pair creation, and derive a new equilibrium magnetization of σ

e
∼ 103-104 for ṁ = 10-6 - 10-5. Additionally, we explore the potential of magnetospheric current sheets to accelerate protons to ultra-high energies, finding that while acceleration to such energies is limited by various loss mechanisms, such as synchrotron and photopion losses from the non-thermal emission from pairs, maximal proton energies in the range of a few EeV are attainable in magnetospheric sheets forming around supermassive sub-Eddington accreting black holes.
Quantify typical trapping sites of deuterium in tungsten by sequential thermal desorption coupled with a dedicated numerical diffusion model
Authors: He Lin-Ping , Li Cong , Gao Jie , Zhang Wei , Shi Li-Qun , Zhang Hong-Liang
Published: December 2024

Pure tungsten (W) was irradiated by low-energy deuterium (D) at 335 and 500 K to investigate the effects of irradiation temperature on the concentration depth profiles (CDPs) of D-induced trapping sites and the retention behavior of D at these trapping sites. To quantify typical D trapping sites, a novel approach was developed by combining experimental and theoretical analysis, including the sequential constant temperature thermal desorption to fast release D from irradiated W, in-situ ion beam analysis to obtain CDPs of retained D after desorption, and a one-dimensional diffusion model to simulate the diffusion, trapping and detrapping of D during desorption. The approach was verified through the microstructural characterization of irradiated W. It was revealed that the retentions of D in both near-surface and sub-surface layers were larger at the lower irradiation temperature (335 K) because of a higher density of D-induced dislocations and cavities in the corresponding regions. Employing the approach, the releasing behavior of D at four typical trapping sites, i.e. dislocations, mono-vacancies, grain boundaries and cavities was quantitatively analyzed. The approach with the capability to quantify typical D trapping sites provides a powerful tool for understanding the retention mechanism of D in the damaged W.
Design, modeling and validation of a low-cost linkage-spring telescopic rod-slide underactuated adaptive robotic hand
Authors: Gengbiao Chen , Hanxiao Wang , Lairong Yin
Published: December 2024

The incorporation of human-like gripping capabilities enhances the flexibility and adaptability of robotic hands (RH) within dynamic production environments, serving as a critical factor in advancing industrial automation and intelligence. To facilitate cost reduction in the RH industry without compromising performance, humanoid gripping capabilities have gained popularity and become more economically accessible. This paper presents the design of a cost-effective underactuated adaptive RH (UARH), characterized by a link-spring telescopic rod-contact plate-slide mechanism. Upon actuation of the metacarpophalangeal joint, the proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints achieve the desired grasping configuration through the preload state of the spring telescopic rod or the geometric characteristics of the object being grasped. Static modeling analysis reveals effective interaction and linkage relationships among the driving force, contact force, joint angle, and contact position of this UARH. The results from prototype testing confirm these characteristics. Consequently, it is evident that this UARH exhibits excellent dexterity, adaptability, and grasping capability, while maintaining a simple structure and low cost.
Improved country-wide estimation of above-ground tropical forest biomass using locally calibrated GEDI spaceborne LiDAR data
Authors: Zhou Yuchuan , Taylor David M , Tang Hao
Published: December 2024

NASA’s Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) presents an unprecedented opportunity for cost-effective estimations of above-ground biomass density (AGBD) using spaceborne Light Detection And Ranging technology. Current performance of the GEDI Level 4 A (L4A) AGBD product is, however, subject to model choice and availability of calibration data. Here, we identified biases in the current GEDI L4A AGBD product compared to National Forest Inventory (NFI) data for the Southeast Asian country of Laos, with absolute bias values ranging from −54.24 to 106.23 Mg Ha−1 across different forest types. We optimised the GEDI L4A AGBD model configurations for natural forests in Laos and calibrated them with ancillary variables. The biases were significantly reduced (average bias reduction for all forest types = 42.2 Mg Ha−1), with the greatest reduction for the evergreen (EG) forest type. The calibrated GEDI footprints were aggregated to produce a country-wide map of AGBD for natural forests. The approach also enabled the updating of national-level estimates of average AGBD stock for each forest class in Laos using a model-assisted estimator complementary to the existing NFI design-based estimator. Results highlight the importance of localised calibration in remote sensing applications used in estimating forest biomass, and offer a replicable framework for application in other regions with limited availability of ground data and/or extensive, remote areas of forest.
Analogous Wrongs: Privacy Invasions and Discrimination
Authors: Schneider Alice
Published: December 2024

Privacy scholars and activists frequently argue that one reason for protecting privacy is the danger that personal information could be used for discriminatory purposes. This proposition raises two questions: practically, are privacy rights capable of pre-empting discriminatory treatment; and, if so, is preventing discrimination conceptually part of, or related to, the purpose of privacy rights? This article provides answers in two parts. The first part partially vindicates the hope that privacy can, under certain conditions, guard against discriminatory treatment. However, I also explain that relying on privacy as proto-anti-discrimination law risks conferring added burdens to those already at risk of discrimination. The second part maps out ontological connections between the wrongs of privacy invasions and discriminatory treatment. I explain that direct discrimination is disadvantageous treatment on the basis of a particular kind of illicit reason or ‘ground’ that relates to protected group characteristics, like race or gender. I then propose an analogous view of privacy violations as doxastic states (eg states of knowledge) about others that are wrongful in virtue of relying on illicit reasons for belief.
Outstretched wing is controlled by intestinal enteroblasts‐derived unpaired 2 cytokine signaling in Drosophila
Authors: Li Yu , Liu Dongyue , Zhang Shengliang , Zhou Jinglan , Li Shuangxi
Published: December 2024

The outstretched wing phenotype in Drosophila melanogaster can be induced by various genetic mutations and environmental perturbations, yet the role of gut‐derived signals in coordinating wing development remains largely unexplored. In this study, we demonstrate that Upd2, secreted from the gut to the wing discs, plays a crucial role in regulating the outstretched wing phenotype. The intestinal precursor cell driver esg‐Gal4 exhibits low levels of leaky expression, even in the presence of Gal80ts at room temperature (25°C). This leaky expression of TDP‐43, Notch, and Yki in intestinal precursor cells leads to a held‐out wing phenotype, shortened lifespan, and impaired locomotor function. Although esg‐Gal4 is expressed in imaginal discs, overexpression of TDP‐43, Notch, or Yki using the wing‐specific driver does not result in the outstretched wing. Furthermore, our data indicate that genetic alterations associated with the spread‐out wing phenotype originate in enteroblasts (EBs) during early development. RNA sequencing analysis with guts from third instar larvae revealed that the JAK–STAT pathway ligand Upd2 is among the most significantly downregulated transcripts. Notably, ectopic expression of Upd2 in EBs partially rescued the abnormal held‐out wing phenotype induced by TDP‐43, Notch, and Yki overexpression. Together, our findings identify gut‐derived Upd2 cytokine signaling as a key mediator of the outstretched wing phenotype, providing evidence for gut‐to‐wing communication axis during Drosophila development.
Current risks of byssinosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in textile workers
Authors: Nafees Asaad Ahmed , Cullinan Paul
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

The textile manufacturing sector is a major contributor to the economies of several emergent economies in the global South. Respiratory disease, including byssinosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), among textile workers appears to be common in this setting.

Recent findings

Notably, little or no contemporary research has been published from countries, which are major global producers of textiles. Most recent epidemiological studies are of a cross-sectional design, with deficiencies that repeat those of research in this area over the past 20 years and do little to advance the cause of prevention. Their estimates of disease prevalence vary wildly for reasons that are unclear. An important exception was the publication of a successful, randomized trial of a low-cost intervention, the first in this field.

Research into the respiratory problems of textile work needs to embrace modern approaches to the understanding of (occupational) COPD and move beyond the estimation of disease prevalence. There is an important need for cheaper and simpler techniques for workplace dust measurement. Occupational health researchers should pool their skills, resources and protocols towards the prevention of a problem that is common to many low- and middle-income economies.
Acute Human Bocavirus 1 Infection in Children Hospitalized for Acute Bronchiolitis: A 2-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Uršič Tina , Lusa Lara , Strle Franc , Pokorn Marko , Mrvič Tatjana , Grosek Štefan , Petrovec Miroslav , Virant Monika Jevšnik
Published: December 2024

Background:

The objective of this prospective study was to assess the proportion and clinical consequences of human bocavirus 1 (HBoV1) replication in children hospitalized for acute bronchiolitis (AB) with HBoV1 DNA in the nasopharynx (NP).

Methods:

For this purpose, we detected HBoV1 DNA and mRNA (evidence of viral replication and viable virus) in NP in cases and healthy control children. This research allowed us to distinguish active HBoV1 infections from inactive ones.

Results:

HBoV1 DNA was detected in the NP of 37 of 307 patients with AB (12.1%) and 9 of 150 children in a healthy control group (6%) with a high codetection rate with other respiratory viruses in AB patients, 28 of 37 (75.7%). Only 9 of 37 HBoV1 DNA–positive NP swabs (24.3%) with high DNA load were also HBoV1 mRNA positive, moreover, HBoV1 DNA was also detected in the plasma of these patients.

Conclusions:

Based on the results of our study, we can conclude that children with AB acute HBoV1 infection has a high HBoV1 DNA load in NP samples together with detected HBoV1 mRNA and detected HBoV1 DNA in plasma.
Gut Microbiota and Related Metabolites in Children With Egg White Sensitization
Authors: Chen Chien-Chang , Yeh Yuan-Ming , Chen Kun-Jei , Chang Hung-Ju , Cheng Mei-Ling , Lo Chi-Jen , Lai Hsin-Chih
Published: December 2024

Background:

We hypothesized that food sensitization in children could be linked to specific gut microbiota. The objective of this study is to assess a group of children with egg white sensitization (ES) from the microbiological and biochemical-metabolic standpoint, applying the microbiota and metabolomics approach to studying the intestinal contents of the feces.

Methods:

Twenty-eight toddlers with ES (mean age 13.08 months) and 24 healthy controls (mean age 12.85 months) were recruited for feces collection, serum IgE measurement, gut microbiota and metabolomics analysis. Individual microbial diversity and composition were analyzed via targeting the 16S rRNA gene hypervariable V3–V5 regions. The metabolite profiles of human feces were explored by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance.

Results:

Children with ES exhibited relatively high levels of Firmicutes at the phylum level and relatively low levels of Bacteroidetes. Moreover, children with ES exhibited significantly reduced overall gut microbiota diversity and richness compared with healthy children. At the family level, we observed significant increases in the numbers of Clostridiaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Pasteurellaceae and Ruminococcaceae in children with ES. Egg white sensitivity increases orotic acid, nicotinate, methyl succinate, urocanic acid, xanthine, amino acids (tyrosine, lysine, tryptophan, phenylalanine) and short-chain fatty acids (n-butyrate, valerate) levels according to the results of metabolomics analysis.

Conclusions:

In summary, some specific families and genera (dysbiosis) are enriched in the gut microbiota, and increases in the mean concentrations of organic compounds in the fecal metabolite profile are associated with ES in children. These findings may provide evidence of potential strategies to control the development of ES or other atopies by modifying the gut microbiota.
PEDIATRIC DENGUE IN NONENDEMIC AREAS: THE IMPORTANCE OF THE AWARENESS TO DETECT NEW CASES AND WARNING SIGNS: A CASE REPORT
Authors: de Haan-Bosch Marian , Esquirol-Herrero Cristina , Melendo-Pérez Susana , Soler-Palacín Pere , Sulleiro Elena , Espiau María , Mendoza-Palomar Natalia , Soriano-Arandes Antoni
Published: December 2024

A substantial increase in dengue cases has been reported globally lately, particularly in the Region of the Americas. Children have a higher risk of severity, so it is important to be aware of dengue clinical courses. We present an unusual pediatric case of imported primary dengue infection with warning signs diagnosed in a nonendemic area.
Modelling benefits and costs of decision making and feedback control for organisms in changing environments
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Johnston Iain G.
Published: December 2024

Cells (and organisms) make decisions in response to their environments. These decisions may help organism survival in environments with limited resource, but also constitute a cost to the organism in terms of the energy involved in sensing, processing, and responding to environmental change. Here, we explore the tradeoffs involved in a cost-benefit analysis of model organisms facing challenging deterministic or stochastic environments. The benefits of tunable versions of proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control are computed under different environmental behaviours; the model reflects both the ability to use this control to decide on cellular strategy and the potential cost associated with this feedback control. We quantify the circumstances under which control is most and least beneficial and the different weightings of the PID terms that perform best in specific and general situations. While our model is very simple, these results provide potential insight into the benefits of different control mechanisms, particularly at the single-cell level.
Sex-specific insights into drug-induced lifespan extension and weight loss in mice
Authors: Belikov Aleksey V. , Talay Angelo , de Magalhães João Pedro
Published: December 2024

The DrugAge database serves as a comprehensive resource for the study of compounds that increase lifespan in model organisms. In the latest version of DrugAge, we have implemented multiple updates, predominantly focusing on mouse (Mus musculus) studies to enhance data accuracy and consistency. Key improvements include the re-recording of mouse data from original sources, standardization of drug dosages to parts per million (ppm), and detailed recording of administration routes, treatment initiation ages, and durations. The user interface has also been upgraded. Additionally, weight change data were included to address the potential impact of caloric restriction induced by drug administration on lifespan. Our analysis revealed significant correlations between weight loss and lifespan extension in male mice, particularly in studies conducted by the Interventions Testing Program (ITP), highlighting the importance of considering weight change in lifespan studies. We also observed notable sex-related differences in lifespan and weight change responses, underscoring the need for gender-specific analyses in aging research.
Ethanol down-regulates gastrula gene expression and cell movement, causing symptoms of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Alsakran Amena Ali , Wong Hoi Ying , Heaton Caitlin , Boreham Rebekah , Ball Jonathan , Kudoh Tetsuhiro
Published: December 2024

Foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) occur in embryos when they are exposed to maternally supplied alcohol. To study the mechanisms of FASDs, the zebrafish embryo can serve as an excellent model as ethanol exposed zebrafish embryos exhibit common symptoms of human FASDs including microcephaly, incomplete neural plate closure, eye defects, craniofacial disorders and many other defects. Here we investigated the embryo development at gastrula stage when three germ layers develop with specific gene expressions and undergo dynamic cell movement including extension, convergence and epiboly, establishing the platform to form the head and body axis in the later development. Gastrula cell movement analyses using fluorescent transgenic zebrafish embryos revealed that ethanol induced dose dependent delay of extension, convergence and epiboly cell movement and associated gene expressions in all three germ layers. Our results suggest multiple targets of ethanol including gene expression and cell movement, consequently delay the key gene expression and cell localisation, causing irreversible developmental defects in the head and body axis formation.
Phenotyping the hidden half: Combining UAV phenotyping and machine learning to predict barley root traits in the field
Authors: Alahmad Samir , Smith Daniel , Katsikis Christina , Aldiss Zachary , Meer Sarah V. , Meijer Lotus , Chenu Karine , Chapman Scott , Potgieter Andries B. , Wasson Anton , Baraibar Silvina , Godoy Jayfred , Moody David , Robinson Hannah , Hickey Lee T.
Published: December 2024

Improving crop root systems for enhanced adaptation and productivity remains challenging due to limitations in scalable non-destructive phenotyping approaches, inconsistent translation of root phenotypes from controlled environment to the field, and a lack of understanding of the genetic controls. This study serves as a proof of concept, evaluating a panel of Australian barley breeding lines and cultivars (Hordeum vulgareL) in two field experiments. Integrated ground-based root and shoot phenotyping was performed at key growth stages. UAV-captured vegetation indices (VIs) were explored for their potential to predict root distribution and above-ground biomass. Machine learning models, trained on a subset of 20 diverse lines, with the most accurate model applied to predict traits across a broader panel of 395 lines. Unlike previous studies focusing on above-ground traits or indirect proxies, this research directly predicts root traits in field conditions using VIs, machine learning and root phenotyping. Root trait predictions for the broader panel enabled genomic analysis using a haplotype-based approach, identifying key genetic drivers, includingEGT1andEGT2which regulate root gravitropism. This approach offers the potential to advance root research across various crops and integrate root traits into breeding programs, fostering the development of varieties adapted to future environments.

Highlight

Integrating UAV phenotyping and machine learning can be used to predict RSA traits non-destructively and offers a new approach to support root research and crop improvement.
Study on the mechanism of action of the Pt(IV) complex with lonidamine ligands by ultrafast chemical proteomics
Authors: Imaikina Ekaterina A. , Fedorov Ivan I. , Emekeeva Daria D. , Kazakova Elizaveta M. , Garibova Leila A. , Ivanov Mark V. , Shutkov Ilya A. , Nazarov Alexey A. , Gorshkov Mikhail V. , Tarasova Irina A.
Published: December 2024

Platinum (II) complexes such as cisplatin among the few others are well-known and approved for clinical use as anticancer metal-based drugs. In spite of their successful and wide acceptance, the respective chemotherapy is associated with severe side effects and the ability of tumors to quickly develop resistance. To overcome these drawbacks the novel strategy is considered, which is based on the use of platinum complexes with bioactive ligands attached to act in synergy with platinum and further improve its pharmacological properties. Among the recently introduced such multi-action prodrugs is Pt(IV) complex with two lonidamine ligands, the latter selectively inhibiting hexokinase and, thus, the glycolysis in cancer cells. While platinum based multi-action prodrugs are exhibiting increased levels of activity towards cancer cells and, thus, considered as potent to overcome the resistance to cisplatin, there is a crucial need to uncover their mechanism of action by revealing all possibly affected processes and targets across the whole cellular proteomes. These are the challenging tasks in proteomics requiring high-throughput analysis of hundreds of samples for just a single drug-to-proteome system. In this work we performed these analyses for 8-azaguanine and experimental Pt(IV)-lonidamine complex applied to ovarian cancer cell line A2780, using both mechanism- and compound-centric chemical proteomics approaches based on ultrafast expression proteomics and thermal proteome profiling, respectively. Analysis of data obtained for Pt(IV)-lonidamine complex revealed regulation of proteins involved in glucose metabolic process associated with lonidamine further supporting the multi-action mechanism of this prodrug action.
Stable topical application of antimicrobials using plumbing rings in anex vivoporcine corneal infection model
Authors: Foulkes Daniel M. , Mclean Keri , Masharma Taruni , Fernig David G. , Kaye Stephen B.
Published: December 2024

Microbial keratitis (MK) is a substantial cause of clinical blindness worldwide.Pseudomonas aeruginosais an opportunistic gram-negative bacterium and is the leading cause of MK. Infection models are vital tools in understanding host-pathogen interactions and the development of novel therapies. As well as ethical and practical advantages,ex vivoinfection models can allow researchers to better investigate host-pathogen interactions more accurately than traditional cell culture systems. The versatility of porcine cornealex vivomodels have been employed to study various pathogens (for exampleStaphylococcus aureusandAcanthamoeba) and has enabled innovation of novel MK therapies. Here, we describe an improved porcine cornealex vivoprotocol, which uses plumbing rings and medical adhesive to circumvent several distinct limitations and challenges. The application of a 10 mm plumbing ring to the center of the cornea allows localized inoculation of pathogens of interest, maintaining them at the site of infection, rather than running the risk of “run off” of topically added aqueous solutions. The second important advantage is that topically applied therapeutic agents can be properly maintained on the cornea within the plumbing ring reservoir, allowing more accurate study of antimicrobial effects. In this contextualized protocol, we infected porcine corneas with theP. aeruginosastrain PA103 with topical treatments of moxifloxacin. PA103 colony forming unit (CFU) deduction, quantification of corneal opacity and histology analysis (hematoxylin and eosin staining), was used to assess infection over 48h, which was alleviated by moxifloxacin in a dose-dependent manner.