bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rational design of azo‐aminopyrimidine derivatives as the potent lepidoptera‐exclusive chitinase inhibitors
Authors: Ding Baokang , Ma Shujie , Yang Meiling , Zhang Quanguo , Hua Xiujia , Zhang Jiahao , Bai Shenmeng , Zhang Lihui , Dong Jingao , Shen Shengqiang , Dong Lili
Published: December 2024

Ostrinia furnacalis (O. furnacalis) is a commonly occurring agricultural pest that can severely impact corn yield and quality. Therefore, establishing and implementing effective control methods against O. furnacalis are of great significance. Chemical insecticides remain the most effective means to mitigate the damage caused by O. furnacalis. With the increasing resistance of O. furnacalis to insecticides, it is imperative to identify and develop compounds with novel mechanisms of action and high safety. The chitinase OfChi‐h, identified and characterized in O. furnacalis, has been recognized as a potential insecticide target. In this study, a series of azo‐aminopyrimidine analogues were synthesized as OfChi‐h inhibitors employing rational molecular optimization. Among them, compounds 9b, 10a and 10g exhibited Ki values of 23.2, 19.4, and 43.2 nM against OfChi‐h, respectively. Molecular docking studies were carried out to explore the molecular basis for the high efficacy of these compounds and OfChi‐h. In addition, the morphological changes of the cuticle in inhibitor‐treated O. furnacalis larvae were assessed using scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the target compounds were assayed in leaf dipping and pot experiments, with compound 10a exhibiting greater insecticidal activity against Plutella xylostella (P. xylostella) and O. furnacalis than diflubenzuron and chlorbenzuron. At the same time, the toxicity of these compounds to natural enemies Trichogramma ostriniae and rats was negligible. The present study demonstrates that the azo‐aminopyrimidine skeleton can be used as a novel, low‐cost scaffold for developing insect chitinolytic enzyme inhibitors, with the potential to be utilized as new environmentally friendly insecticides.
Colletotrichum nymphaeae and Colletotrichum theobromicola isolated from anthracnose symptoms cause grape ripe rot
Authors: Steiner Daniel Ricardo Maass , Modesto Lenon Romano , Dias Andressa Hilha , Zappelini Júlia , Petters‐Vandresen Desirrê Alexia Lourenço , Castellar Camilla , De Mio Louise Larissa May , Nodari Rubens Onofre
Published: December 2024

Colletotrichum species are the causal agents of grape ripe rot (GRR). However, Colletotrichum isolates have been isolated from symptoms of leaf grape anthracnose (GA) caused by Elsinöe ampelina infection. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate whether Colletotrichum isolates obtained from grapes with GA are pathogenic on grapevine leaf, cane, or berry causing GA, or if they can cause GRR symptoms on ripe grapes. Colletotrichum isolates were characterized by genetic and morphological analyses as well as pathogenicity tests. One isolate of E. ampelina from GA and one of Colletotrichum acutatum complex (GL1) collected from GRR symptoms were used as reference isolates. Colletotrichum isolates from GA lesions were identified by genetic and morphological differences as C. nymphaeae (17 isolates) and C. theobromicola (one isolate). C. theobromicola was found for the first time associated with grapes in Brazil. C. nymphaeae and C. theobromicola did not cause lesions on grapevine leaf or cane, but the isolate of E. ampelina confirmed symptoms of typical GA. The Colletotrichum isolates from leaves were pathogenic on grapevine berries leading to GRR symptoms. Epidemiological studies on the relevance of Colletotrichum latent infection on leaves as a source of primary inoculum of ripe rot and the interference of co‐infections of E. ampelina × Colletotrichum spp. on GA symptoms should be further investigated.
Searching for Higher Ground: Watershed Migration and Cultural Curation in the Fallout of Disaster*
Authors: Folse Brandon , Theis Nicholas , Shtob Daniel
Published: December 2024

Due to land loss from sea level rise, subsidence, and hurricanes, coastal Louisiana residents face decisions about whether and how to move to live more securely. These (seemingly) biophysical processes are compounded by sociocultural evolution and technological progress, which often make rural people and communities feel devalued. Using these observations as a background, we ask: how do disaster‐related migration strategies correspond to broader migration trends nationally and globally? And, how do local, place‐based cultures influence and permeate these migration decisions and strategies? We rely on 32 interviews with those who are from southeastern Louisiana and are connected to local seafood industries. Using the Intracoastal Canal as a line of risk demarcation, respondents were recruited as either stayers (those residing south of the canal) or migrants (those who moved north of the canal or elsewhere). We find that within both groups, many individuals and/or their family members participate in watershed migration and cultural curation, practices of moving up the bayou toward safer ground and bringing place‐based practices along with this movement. We conclude by highlighting how the non‐linear experiences of migrants are part of larger historical narratives and practices of change, migration, and cultural and physical survival.
Description of the Novel Allele HLA‐B*44:418, Identified in a Bone Marrow Donor
Authors: Cheranev Valery , Syrko Denis , Jankevic Tatiana , Loginova Maria , Korostin Dmitry
Published: December 2024

The new HLA‐B*44:418 allele showed one non‐synonymous nucleotide difference compared with the HLA‐B*44:05:01:01 allele in codon 12.
Viability of Plasmodium falciparum parasites in human plasma under different storage conditions
Authors: Lavrentieva Anna , Oakley Miranda S. , Hayashi Clifford T. H. , Majam Victoria F. , Eder Anne F. , Villa Carlos H. , Kumar Sanjai
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

Malaria risk deferral policies are important for mitigating the risk of transfusion‐transmitted malaria and apply to all transfusable components, including plasma. While donors of plasma components are deferred for malaria risk in the United States, the viability of intraerythrocytic Plasmodium falciparum parasites present in human plasma components stored under different temperatures and durations has not been previously reported.

Materials and Methods

We spiked human plasma with a low level of ring‐stage P. falciparum‐infected red blood cells and then determined their viability in cultures after storage at room temperature (22°C), refrigeration (4°C) and frozen conditions at −20 and −80°C.

Results

P. falciparum parasites spiked in human plasma remained viable after storage at 22°C for a maximum of 7 days. When stored at 4°C, parasites were viable after 1 and 3 days of storage and only for 1 day after storage at −20°C. Storage at −80°C had a cryopreserving effect and parasites remained viable for up to 176 days, the longest period tested.

Conclusion

P. falciparum parasites can survive for short durations in human plasma when stored at room temperature, or in refrigerated or frozen conditions at −20°C. However, when stored at −80°C, viable parasites were detected for up to 176 days, the maximum duration for which viability was assessed. In summary, Plasmodium parasites can survive in human plasma under different storage conditions and pose a risk of transfusion‐transmitted infection.
Global solutions for semilinear parabolic evolution problems with Hölder continuous nonlinearities
Authors: Matioc Bogdan‐Vasile , Walker Christoph
Published: December 2024

It is shown that semilinear parabolic evolution equations  featuring Hölder continuous nonlinearities with at most linear growth possess global strong solutions for a general class of initial data. The abstract results are applied to a recent model describing front propagation in bushfires and in the context of a reaction–diffusion system.
Lipoma intramuscular en la lengua y remoción quirúrgica con láser de diodo. Revisión de la literatura apoyada en un caso
Authors: Chutchurru Mariano , Miana Vanesa Verónica , Herrera Juan Pablo , Koren Ezequiel , Palavecino Roberto Paulino
Published: December 2024

Antecedentes: El lipoma es un tumor mesenquimal benigno formado por tejido adiposo subcutáneo. El lipoma crece sin presentar signos clínicos aunque puede ocasionar compresión y desplazamiento de estructuras anatómicas circundantes. Es poco probable encontrar un lipoma en la cavidad oral intramuscularmente. Sin embargo, sí puede estar localizado en la mucosa y el piso de la boca o la lengua. Objetivo: Analizar la literatura relevante y apoyarla en la descripción de un caso sobre el abordaje quirúrgico con láser de un lipoma intramuscular en la lengua de aparición inusual. Métodos: El análisis incluyó artículos científicos publicados en inglés, español y portugués en formato electrónico, que estaban disponibles en repositorios digitales y las bases de PubMed, LiLACS y Google Académico. Se incluyeron descripciones y series de casos y otras revisiones. El caso era de un paciente adulto a quien se le realizó una cirugía con láser de diodo (Wiser 3®) con 3 longitudes de onda. Resultados: De 30 artículos seleccionados de las bases que estaban registrados en PRISMA o CARE, se seleccionaron cuatro títulos que permitieron aprender que los lipomas en la cavidad oral predominan en el sexo femenino y que aparecen entre los 50 y 80 años. Los lipomas más frecuentes en boca son el simple y los fibrolipomas. Conclusiones: La literatura analizada confirma que los lipomas intramusculares y de lengua son inusuales en cuanto a su identificación histológica y su sitio de aparición.
Evaluation of Irregular Motion in Endovascular Treatment
Authors: Kobayashi Kengo , Takashima Kazuto , Toma Naoki , Mori Koji
Published: December 2024

Vascular intervention using guidewires and catheters has been widely performed, but the selection of appropriate device manipulation is often based on the experience and skills of the surgeon. Occasionally, accidents occur due to unexpected movements of these device tips, resulting in vascular damage. To address the challenge of unpredictable device motions and the associated risk of vessel wall damage, this study aims to investigate how different vessel shapes influence device motions. Additionally, we seek to identify effective manipulation techniques to mitigate these risks. We conducted experiments involving the insertion of a guidewire and a catheter into crank-shaped blood vessel phantom models with three different bending angles. Throughout the experiment, the movement of the inserted guidewire within the blood vessel phantoms was recorded using video recording. It was discovered that jumping distance and number of jumps increased as the distance between the catheter and guidewire tip increased. In experiments with a small bending angle, guidewire jumping was infrequent, but when it occurred, jumps tended to be longer (4.0 ± 2.4 mm). Conversely, experiments involving large bending angles showed short consecutive jumps, with the last jumping distance typically being a relatively longer (2.5 ± 1.3 mm). These findings indicate that irregular motions can be reduced by keeping a catheter close to a guidewire tip. Moreover, when the bending angle is large, a manipulator should be ready to prevent further motions as soon as they notice a small first jump.
Exploiting Stochastic Resonance Principles to Influence the Efficiency of a Torsional-Flutter Energy Harvester in Turbulent Winds
Authors: Caracoglia Luca
Published: December 2024

Wind energy harvesters are emerging as a viable alternative to standard, large horizontal-axis wind turbines. This study continues a recent investigation on the operational features of a torsional-flutter-based apparatus, proposed by the author to extract wind energy. The apparatus is composed of a non-deformable, flapping blade-airfoil. A nonlinear torsional spring mechanism, either simulated by a Duffing model or a hybrid Duffing–van der Pol model, installed at equally spaced supports, enables limit-cycle, post-critical vibration. To enhance the output power, stochastic resonance principles are invoked through a novel, negative stiffness mechanism that is coupled to the eddy current device for energy conversion. The output power is explored by numerically solving the stochastic differential equation of the model, accounting for incoming flow turbulence. Three main harvester types with variable configuration are examined; the chord length of the blade-airfoil, used for energy harvesting, varies between 0.5 and 1 m; the spanwise-length-to-chord aspect ratio is four. The flapping frequency varies between 0.10 and 0.25 Hz. The study demonstrates that exploitation of negative stiffness mechanism can improve the performance of the harvester.
Does Annulus Fibrosus Lamellar Adhesion Testing Require Preconditioning?
Authors: Sinopoli Sabrina I. , Whittal Mitchel C. , Briar K. Josh , Gregory Diane E.
Published: December 2024

The interlamellar matrix (ILM), located between the annular layers of the intervertebral disc (IVD), is an adhesive component which acts to resist delamination. Investigating the mechanical properties of the ILM can provide us with valuable information regarding risk of disc injury; however given its viscoelastic nature, it may be necessary to conduct preconditioning on tissue samples before measuring these ILM properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to optimize mechanical testing protocols of the ILM by examining the effect of preconditioning on stiffness and strength of this adhesive matrix. Eighty-eight annular samples were dissected from 22 porcine cervical discs and randomized into one of four testing conditions consisting of ten cycles of 15% strain followed by a 180 deg adhesive peel test. The four testing groups employed a different strain rate for the ten cycles of preconditioning: 0.01 mm/s (n = 23); 0.1 mm/s (n = 26); 1 mm/s (n = 23); and no preconditioning employed (n = 16). Samples preconditioned at 0.01 mm/s were significantly less stiff than those that had not received preconditioning (p = 0.014). No other results were found to be statistically significant. Given the lack of differences observed in this study, preconditioning is likely not necessary prior to conducting a 180 deg peel test. However, if preconditioning is employed, the findings from this study suggest avoiding preconditioning conducted at very slow rates (i.e., 0.01 mm/s) as the long testing time may negatively affect the tissue.
Experimental Investigation on the Dynamic Response of a Turbocharger Centrifugal Compressor in Surge Transitions
Authors: Silvestri Paolo , Marelli Silvia , Usai Vittorio
Published: December 2024

Centrifugal compressors play a critical role in various industrial applications, and understanding their operational behavior, especially during surge conditions, is essential for enhancing efficiency and reliability. This study investigates surge transitions in centrifugal compressors by employing a comprehensive approach that integrates dynamic mass flow rate and pressure measurements together with dynamic structural response data. To gain insight into the transition from the stable to the unstable region of the compressor, an extensive experimental analysis on a centrifugal compressor was conducted. The activity involves measurements used to characterize and identify the behavior of the compressor in correspondence of surge inception conditions. Frequency and time–frequency data analysis techniques have been employed to examine the inflow pressure and the anemometric signal. The purpose is to identify their characteristics and define the compressor operation as stable or unstable. Synchronous averages, applied in the time domain, have proven to be effective for detecting incipient surge conditions. Additionally, statistical techniques, such as variance and spectral kurtosis (SK), have been utilized for the detection in signals with strong additive noise and nondeterministic contents. A method for system identification in deep surge is introduced, particularly focusing on the correlation between the compressor circuit geometries and the operating conditions of the turbocharger. This approach enhances the diagnostic capability of the monitoring system by providing a better knowledge of surge occurrence. The paper is aimed to provide information for the development of control strategies and predictive maintenance protocols to mitigate surge-related issues.
The Tribocorrosion Resistance of Posttreated Supersonic Plasma-Sprayed MoSi2 Coating
Authors: Hu Chunhua , Guo Quanqiang , Ji Xinghao , Liu Yu
Published: December 2024

MoSi2 coatings were prepared on a 45CrNi substrate by supersonic plasma spraying (SAPS). The tribocorrosion resistance of MoSi2 coating and posttreated MoSi2 coating (P-MoSi2) in the seawater environment was analyzed. After posttreatment, some new phases such as MoO3, SiO2, and Mo9O26 are generated in the P-MoSi2 coating. The electrochemical test results indicated that the P-MoSi2 coating has lower current density and larger −βc and Rp values than MoSi2 coating in both static corrosion and tribocorrosion tests. The wear test results indicated that the posttreatment reduces the wear-rate and friction coefficient of the coating. The wear mechanisms of both coatings were described to explain the differences. Also, the mechanism of the improved tribocorrosion resistance after posttreatment was explained.
Influence of Fiber Direction on the Tribological Behavior of Carbon-Reinforced PEEK at Elevated Temperature for Application in Gas Turbine Engines
Authors: Cliche Marie-Laurence , Mone Robert , Liberati Andre C. , Stoyanov Pantcho
Published: December 2024

The aerospace industry aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, requiring gas turbine engines to reduce CO2 emissions. This will impact engine material selection due to harsher operating conditions, limiting traditional metal/alloy use. While fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are commonly used in the aerospace industry, their use in gas turbine engines is often restricted by the lower operating temperatures of the polymer matrix. However, many studies have demonstrated the tribological potential of FRP in the fan section of the engines, but little attention has been given to the potential of orienting the fibers in the normal (i.e., out-of-plane) direction relative to the wear surface to leverage the anisotropic properties of FRP composites. This study investigates the impact of fiber orientation on the tribological properties of carbon fiber/polyetheretherketone (PEEK) (CF-PEEK) at elevated temperatures. Three CF-PEEK samples with different fiber orientations were selected for this study (parallel, antiparallel, and normal directions), as well as a fourth sample of pure PEEK. Tribological tests were conducted using a ball-on-disk tribometer at an elevated temperature of 200 °C to evaluate wear and friction behavior. The worn surfaces and counterfaces were analyzed using confocal laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The findings reveal that CF-PEEK with fibers oriented in the normal direction demonstrates significantly enhanced tribological performance at elevated temperatures, achieving a 95% reduction in the friction coefficient and a 92% decrease in the wear-rate compared to pure PEEK. A wear mechanism has been proposed to explain the superior wear resistance of normally oriented fibers in CF-PEEK, linking it to the development of a fiber-based interface during the run-in phase and the formation of a uniform transfer film.
Attributes of a collaborative practitioner in the Australian healthcare system
Authors: Kent Fiona , Cardiff Lynda , Clark Bronwyn , Maundu Josephine , Wilkinson Glenys , Meiklejohn Sarah
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Interprofessional collaborative practice is required to organise healthcare around the individual needs and preferences of patients, carers and their families. In order to prepare graduates for interprofessional collaborative practice, the attributes required of health professionals must be made explicit, however at present, there is no consensus regarding the interprofessional competencies required of Australian health professional graduates. This study sought to articulate the current and future (or desired) attributes of a collaborative practitioner within the contemporary healthcare system.
Methods: Taking a constructivist approach, focus groups were conducted with 84 participants, including consumers, education providers and healthcare practitioners, to understand the attributes of a collaborative practitioner. Framework analysis was undertaken to summarise the conceptual, procedural and dispositional knowledge attributes that underpin collaborative practice now and into the future.
Results: Knowledge about patient centredness, healthcare roles and the healthcare system, skills in communication, the efficient use of digital technology, cultural awareness, teamwork, leadership and conflict management and the attributes of respect, trust, empathy and humility featured.
Conclusion: The results of this research establish the groundwork for the development of a collaborative practice competency framework for Australian healthcare practice.
Influence of Sensory Integration and Visual Performance on Postural Control Under Differing Levels of Visual Occlusion in Those With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Wikstrom Erik A. , Jang Jaeho , VanDeMark Lilly H. , Ford Cassie B. , Mihalik Jason P.
Published: December 2024

Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) have postural control deficits and appear to be more reliant on visual information to maintain balance. The underlying cause of this visual reliance remains unknown. Our purpose was to determine how sensory integration and visual performance influence postural control under different visual occlusion levels in those with CAI. Sensory integration ability, as measured by the Sensory Organization Test, was not associated with postural control in those with CAI. Visual performance variables, such as perception span, depth perception, and target capture explained between 13% and 45% of postural control variance across visual occlusion levels. The results suggest that improving visual performance in those with CAI may improve postural control across levels of visual occlusion.
Codesigning a Motor Story for Promoting Inclusion and Critical Thinking in Preservice Teachers: A Participatory Action Research Approach in Physical Education
Authors: Sáez-Gallego Nieves M. , Segovia Yessica , Abellán Jorge
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Physical education teacher education lacks inclusive education coverage, particularly regarding students with intellectual disability. To promote inclusion, awareness in educational settings and fostering critical thinking are essential. Drawing on a socially just perspective, this study employed a participatory action research methodology to understand how codesigning a motor story can support the design of a critical pretext. Method: Drawing from a participatory action research methodology, the research unfolded in two stages: a diagnosis and two action research cycles (Phase 1) and another two action research cycles (Phase 2). Data resources included standard and emergent qualitative methods. Results: The results confirm the motor story’s validity and its ability to elicit empathy and reflection. The codesign process raises awareness of intellectual disability and prompts reflection on inequalities, facilitating the development of inclusion strategies. The emergent and novel qualitative resources helped to enhance critical thinking. Discussion/Conclusion: The collaboratively created motor story is a valuable awareness tool in physical education teacher education.
Integrating High-Intensity Physical Activity Breaks Into Senior School Lessons: Teachers’ Perceptions of the “Burn 2 Learn” Program
Authors: Leahy Angus A. , Babic Mark , Hansen Vibeke , Eather Narelle , Smith Jordan J. , Costigan Sarah A. , Lubans David R.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Most classroom physical activity break interventions have been conducted in primary schools. This is the first study to examine teachers’ perceptions of integrating high-intensity activity breaks into academic lessons for older adolescents in the final years of secondary school. Method: Twelve teachers who participated in the Burn 2 Learn cluster randomized controlled trial completed a semistructured interview with a member of the research team (∼30 min per interview). Results: Teachers were supportive of activity breaks, citing increases in students’ well-being and improvements in classroom engagement following classroom activity breaks. However, competing academic pressure (particularly as major examinations drew closer) was the most cited barrier to implementation. Discussion: Despite the benefits of classroom activity breaks, providing alternative opportunities during the school day (i.e., before classes) may be needed for older adolescents in their final years of schooling if curriculum time is unable to be redirected away from academic subjects.
Diverse phage communities are maintained stably on a clonal bacterial host
Authors: Pyenson Nora C. , Leeks Asher , Nweke Odera , Goldford Joshua E. , Schluter Jonas , Turner Paul E. , Foster Kevin R. , Sanchez Alvaro
Published: December 2024

Bacteriophages are the most abundant and phylogenetically diverse biological entities on Earth, yet the ecological mechanisms that sustain this extraordinary diversity remain unclear. In this study, we discovered that phage diversity consistently outstripped the diversity of their bacterial hosts under simple experimental conditions. We assembled and passaged dozens of diverse phage communities on a single, nonevolving strain of
Escherichia coli
until the phage communities reached equilibrium. In all cases, we found that two or more phage species coexisted stably, despite competition for a single, clonal host population. Phage coexistence was supported through host phenotypic heterogeneity, whereby bacterial cells adopting different growth phenotypes served as niches for different phage species. Our experiments reveal that a rich community ecology of bacteriophages can emerge on a single bacterial host.
Structural basis of H3K36 trimethylation by SETD2 during chromatin transcription
Authors: Markert Jonathan W. , Soffers Jelly H. , Farnung Lucas
Published: December 2024

During transcription, RNA polymerase II traverses through chromatin, and posttranslational modifications including histone methylations mark regions of active transcription. Histone protein H3 lysine 36 trimethylation (H3K36me3), which is established by the histone methyltransferase SET domain containing 2 (SETD2), suppresses cryptic transcription, regulates splicing, and serves as a binding site for transcription elongation factors. The mechanism by which the transcription machinery coordinates the deposition of H3K36me3 is not well understood. Here we provide cryo–electron microscopy structures of mammalian RNA polymerase II–DSIF-SPT6-PAF1c-TFIIS-IWS1-SETD2-nucleosome elongation complexes, revealing that the transcription machinery regulates H3K36me3 deposition by SETD2 on downstream and upstream nucleosomes. SPT6 binds the exposed H2A-H2B dimer during transcription, and the SPT6 death-like domain mediates an interaction with SETD2 bound to a nucleosome upstream of RNA polymerase II.
An injury-induced mesenchymal-epithelial cell niche coordinates regenerative responses in the lung
Authors: Jones Dakota L. , Morley Michael P. , Li Xinyuan , Ying Yun , Zhao Gan , Schaefer Sarah E. , Rodriguez Luis R. , Cardenas-Diaz Fabian L. , Li Shanru , Zhou Su , Chembazhi Ullas V. , Kim Mijeong , Shen Chen , Nottingham Ana , Lin Susan M. , Cantu Edward , Diamond Joshua M. , Basil Maria C. , Vaughan Andrew E. , Morrisey Edward E.
Published: December 2024

Severe lung injury causes airway basal stem cells to migrate and outcompete alveolar stem cells, resulting in dysplastic repair. We found that this “stem cell collision” generates an injury-induced tissue niche containing keratin 5
+
epithelial cells and plastic Pdgfra
+
mesenchymal cells. Single-cell analysis revealed that the injury-induced niche is governed by mesenchymal proliferation and Notch signaling, which suppressed Wnt/Fgf signaling in the injured niche. Conversely, loss of Notch signaling rewired alveolar signaling patterns to promote functional regeneration and gas exchange. Signaling patterns in injury-induced niches can differentiate fibrotic from degenerative human lung diseases through altering the direction of Wnt/Fgf signaling. Thus, we have identified an injury-induced niche in the lung with the ability to discriminate human lung disease phenotypes.
Research cuts in New Zealand target social sciences
Authors: Meduna Veronika
Published: December 2024

Basic research loses out as the country’s “blue-sky” fund shifts to research focused on helping economy
Equine lentivirus Gag protein degrades mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein via the E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf1
Authors: Chen Kewei , Zhou Bingqian , Wang Xinhui , Yang Guangpu , Lin Yuezhi , Wang Xuefeng , Du Cheng , Wang Xiaojun
Published: December 2024

Equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) and HIV-1 are both members of the
Lentivirus
genus and are similar in virological characters. EIAV is of great concern in the equine industry. Lentiviruses establish a complex interaction with the host cell to counteract the antiviral responses. There are various pattern recognition receptors in the host, for instance, the cytosolic RNA helicases interact with viral RNA to activate the mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) and subsequent interferon (IFN) response. However, viruses also exploit multiple strategies to resist host immunity by targeting MAVS, but the mechanism by which lentiviruses are able to target MAVS has remained unclear. In this study, we found that EIAV infection induced MAVS degradation, and that EIAV Gag protein recruited the E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf1 to polyubiquitinate and degrade MAVS. The CARD domain of MAVS and the WW domain of Smurf1 are responsible for the interaction with Gag. EIAV Gag is a precursor polyprotein of the membrane-interacting matrix p15, the capsid p26, and the RNA-binding nucleocapsid proteins p11 and p9. Therefore, we analyzed which protein domain of Gag could interact with MAVS and Smurf1. We found that p15 and p26, but not p11 or p9, target MAVS for degradation. Moreover, we identified the key amino acid residues that support the interactions between p15 or p26 and MAVS or Smurf1. The present study describes a novel role of the EIAV structural protein Gag in targeting MAVS to counteract innate immunity, and reveals the mechanism by which the equine lentivirus can antagonize against MAVS.

IMPORTANCE

Host anti-RNA virus innate immunity relies mainly on the recognition by retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) and melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), and subsequently initiates downstream signaling through interaction with mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS). However, viruses have developed various strategies to counteract MAVS-mediated signaling, although the method of antagonism of MAVS by lentiviruses is still unknown. In this article, we demonstrate that the precursor (Pr55gag) polyprotein of EIAV and its protein domains p15 and p26 target MAVS for ubiquitin-mediated degradation through E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf1. MAVS degradation leads to the inhibition of the downstream IFN-β pathway. This is the first time that lentiviral structural protein has been found to have antagonistic effects on MAVS pathway. Overall, our study reveals a novel mechanism by which equine lentiviruses can evade host innate immunity, and provides insight into potential therapeutic strategies for the control of lentivirus infection.
RB-TnSeq barcode abundance data sets for
Novosphingobium aromaticivorans
grown on the β-5-linked aromatic dimer dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol
Authors: Metz Fletcher , Allemann Marco N. , Michener Joshua K. , Myers Kevin S. , Lu Fachuang , Noguera Daniel R. , Donohue Timothy J.
Published: December 2024

A randomly barcoded transposon insertion sequencing (RB-TnSeq) library of
Novosphingobium aromaticivorans
DSM12444 was grown in media containing either glucose or the β-5-linked aromatic dimer dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol (DC-A) as the sole carbon source. The cultures were grown to saturation and then sequenced, yielding the barcode abundance data sets presented here.
Vibrio cidicii
genomes recovered from Baltic Sea samples in Denmark
Authors: Hounmanou Yaovi Mahuton Gildas , Hougbenou Beau-Gard Jules , Dougnon Victorien Tamegnon , Hammerl Jens-Andre , Dalsgaard Anders
Published: December 2024

We report the genomic characteristics of the human pathogen
Vibrio cidicii
isolated from seawater and green algae in the Baltic Sea. Initially misidentified as
Vibrio vulnificus
through culture and MALDI-TOF, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) confirmed them as
V. cidicii
, highlighting the importance of WGS analysis in accurate classification of emerging pathogens.
Novel assembly of the SF370 strain of the important human pathogen
Streptococcus pyogenes
serotype M1
Authors: Wulff Thomas Fabian , Ahmed-Begrich Rina , Hahnke Karin , Jahn Michael , Charpentier Emmanuelle
Published: December 2024

The important human pathogen
Streptococcus pyogenes
causes a wide range of diseases. Strain SF370 was the first fully sequenced strain of
S. pyogenes
, providing essential insights into the molecular mechanisms of disease. We present an improved genome assembly of strain SF370 from ATCC, which corrects long-standing errors in its genome.
Supplemental Material: Earth’s K recycling: Perspective from K isotopes of intracontinental magmas
Authors: Su Ben-Xun , al. et
Published: December 2024

Analytical methods and Tables S1–S2.  
Supplemental Material: Early Cretaceous continental-scale sediment routing, the McMurray Formation, Western Canada Sedimentary Basin, Alberta, Canada
Authors: Wahbi Abdullah M. , al. et
Published: December 2024

Supplemental Data 1: Analytical methods followed at the Arizona LaserChron Center. Supplemental Data 2: U-Pb detrital zircon (DZ) ages from randomly picked samples. Supplemental Data 3: U-Pb DZ ages from biasly picked samples.
Supplemental Material: Neoproterozoic-early Paleozoic evolution of the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt: Constraints from eclogites in the Beishan Orogenic Belt (NW China)
Authors: Wang Tingyi , Zhao Guochun , al. et
Published: December 2024

Supplemental Text S1. Table S1: Zircon U-Pb isotope data for the Gubaoquan rocks in the Orogenic Belt. Table S2: Rutile, Apatite, titanite, and monazite U-Pb isotope data for the Gubaoquan rocks in the Orogenic Belt. Table S3: Whole-rock major and trace elements of the Gubaoquan eclogite from Beishan Orogenic Belt. Table S4: Zircon Lu-Hf isotope compositions for the studied samples.
Climate dominates geographic influences on whitebark pine and limber pine trends and landscape patterns in Canada
Authors: Shepherd Brenda , Krakowski Jodie , Moody Randy , Reid Iain , Murray Michael P. , Stafl Natalie , Sissons Robert , Alger Genoa , Park Jane , McLellan Charlie , Schwarz Carl James , Smith Cyndi M.
Published: December 2024

Limber pine (LP; Pinus flexilis) and whitebark pine (WBP; Pinus albicaulis) are classified as endangered in Canada due to rapid declines caused by the introduced pathogen causing white pine blister rust (WPBR; Cronartium ribicola), mountain pine beetle, and other stressors. A long-term monitoring study from 2003 to 2019 on 102 LP and 232 WBP permanent plots found that LP mortality decreased with increasing latitude and spring solar radiation, while WBP mortality was highest at low latitudes and elevations in areas with higher moisture and longer growing degree days. WPBR incidence in LP was associated with lower latitudes, high spring precipitation, cool/wet summers, and low solar radiation, while WBP disease incidence drivers were similar, plus increasing tree diameter and slope. Annually, mature LP and WBP mortality from all causes increased 0.4% and 0.5%, respectively, while disease incidence in live trees increased 0.6% and 0.5%. Regeneration density increased 1.3% annually on average for WBP and 2.5% for LP. Disease incidence and mortality rates have slowed compared to prior assessments, likely due to a recruitment deficit of healthy trees and some natural selection for blister rust resistance. The results support customizing landscape restoration strategies based on each species’ unique biology and local climatic factors that influence mortality and infection.
Bound state solutions of the Dunkl–Schrödinger equation for the sextic anharmonic oscillator potential
Authors: Schulze-Halberg Axel
Published: December 2024

We consider the one-dimensional Schrödinger equation for the sextic anharmonic oscillator potential within the Dunkl formalism. Solutions of bound state type are constructed, and results are compared to the conventional scenario.
Analysis and numerical simulation of generalized time-fractional Cattaneo model for heat conduction in porous medium
Authors: Prakash Amit , Kumar Manoj
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we employed a novel technique with the help of the Daftardar-Gejji and Jafari method (DGJM) to solve the generalized time-fractional Cattaneo model (GTFCM) via Caputo derivative with order [Formula: see text]. The existence and uniqueness of solutions are examined using Banach’s fixed-point theorem, and stability is evaluated under Ulam–Hyers conditions. We compared our results with the exact solution and existing techniques, demonstrating our approach’s efficiency.
Self-calibration of binocular camera extrinsic parameters based on structured feature points selection
Authors: Chen Siyu , Ma Chao , Meng Ran , Pei Shanshan , Long Qian , Li Xue
Published: December 2024

The extraction of feature points is crucial to computer vision tasks like self-calibration of binocular camera extrinsic parameters, pose estimation and structure from motion (SFM). In the context of autonomous driving, there are numerous unstructured feature points, as well as structured feature points with shapes such as L-type, Y-type, Star-type and centroid. Typically, feature points are extracted without discrimination and used as inputs for feature-based visual algorithms in a generalized manner. However, the influence of the structural characteristics of these feature points on the performance of such algorithms remains largely unexplored. To address this issue, we propose a multi-stream feature point classification network based on circular patches extraction (CPE). CPE uses concentric circles centered on a given feature point to extract the intensity distribution features around that point. Subsequently, a series of circular patches are converted into square patches according to the order of radius and polar angle. Then, we have a multi-stream feature point classification network, where each stream receives a square patch as input to learn the intensity distribution features and classify the feature points into Y-type, centroid and unstructured categories. Finally, the influence of points with structure and without structure on related autonomous driving visual algorithms was verified in the experiment. Experimental results indicate that our proposed network can effectively classify based on the structure of feature points, which can enhance the performance of feature-based vision algorithms.
PTF-FSR: A Parameter Transmission-Free Federated Sequential Recommender System
Authors: Yuan Wei , Yang Chaoqun , Qu Liang , Hung Nguyen Quoc Viet , Ye Guanhua , Yin Hongzhi
Published: December 2024

Sequential recommender systems, as a specialized branch of recommender systems that can capture users’ dynamic preferences for more accurate and timely recommendations, have made significant progress. Recently, due to increasing concerns about user data privacy, some researchers have implemented federated learning for sequential recommendation, a.k.a., Federated Sequential Recommender Systems (FedSeqRecs), in which a public sequential recommender model is shared and frequently transmitted between a central server and clients to achieve collaborative learning. Although these solutions mitigate user privacy to some extent, they present two significant limitations that affect their practical usability: (1) They require a globally shared sequential recommendation model. However, in real-world scenarios, the recommendation model constitutes a critical intellectual property for platform and service providers. Therefore, service providers may be reluctant to disclose their meticulously developed models. (2) The communication costs are high as they correlate with the number of model parameters. This becomes particularly problematic as the current FedSeqRec will be inapplicable when sequential recommendation marches into a large language model era.

To overcome the above challenges, this article proposes a parameter transmission-free federated sequential recommendation framework (PTF-FSR), which ensures both model and data privacy protection to meet the privacy needs of service providers and system users alike. Furthermore, since PTF-FSR only transmits prediction results under privacy protection, which are independent of model sizes, this new federated learning architecture can accommodate more complex and larger sequential recommendation models. Extensive experiments conducted on three widely used recommendation datasets, employing various sequential recommendation models from both ID-based and ID-free paradigms, demonstrate the effectiveness and generalization capability of our proposed framework. To facilitate future research in this direction, we release our code at
https://github.com/hi-weiyuan/PTF-FSR
.
TG-CUP: A Transformer and GNN-Based Multi-Modal Comment Updating Method
Authors: Chen Yinan , Huang Yuan , Chen Xiangping , Zheng Zibin
Published: December 2024

Comments play a crucial role in code comprehension and maintenance. This is particularly vital when the code is changed, as comments should be promptly updated to maintain consistency between the code and the comments. Existing comment update methods usually treat code as natural language text, ignore the information of code structure, and often fail when code changes are not associated with comment updates (called a non-code-indicative update (NCIU)). Therefore, we propose a Transformer and Graph neural network-based Comment UPdate method (TG-CUP). The model integrates the information of old comment, code edit sequence, and AST-Difference Graph to update the outdated comments. The experimental results show that TG-CUP increased by 5.16% and 2.23% compared with the most advanced methods on Accuracy and Recall@5, and the performance on NCIUs is improved as well.
The receptive field construction of midget ganglion cells in primate retina
Authors: Somaratna Manula A. , Freeman Alan W.
Published: December 2024

We simulated signal processing from cones to midget ganglion cells in the monkey retina and found that: 1) center/surround structure is better described as a ratio of Gaussian functions than as the traditional difference of Gaussians; 2) ganglion cell center and surround radii can be calculated from a sum of squares of radii in upstream stages; 3) the model can predict chromatic dominance in the center and surround mechanisms as a function of eccentricity.
Derivation of Kinetic Parameters and Lignocellulosic Composition From Thermogram of Biomass Pyrolysis Using Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Kim Heeyoon , Jo Hyunbin , Ryu Changkook
Published: December 2024

A novel method employing a 1‐dimensional convolutional neural network (1D‐CNN) has been developed to deduce kinetic parameters for the three‐parallel‐reaction model (TPRM) and the lignocellulosic composition from the thermogram of biomass pyrolysis. This model was trained on differential thermogram (DTG) datasets created at various heating rates with rate constants randomly selected from expansive ranges. Furthermore, to enhance prediction accuracy, a denoising autoencoder (DAE) was crafted to eliminate noise from experimental data effectively. The 1D‐CNN regression model forecasted kinetic parameters with mean errors of 1.52% for trained heating rates and 1.39%−3.19% for other heating rates. When tested on four biomass samples, the model precisely mimicked the DTG curves with R2 values ranging from 0.9956 to 0.9994. Relative to conventional numerical methods, this model delivers comparable prediction accuracy but through a significantly streamlined and expedited process. Enhancements are needed to broaden the model’s applicability across various kinetic models and materials.
Gut Pathogen Colonization: A Risk Factor to Bloodstream Infections in Preterm Neonates Admitted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit – A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Iqbal Faiza , Siva N. , Shenoy Padmaja A. , Lewis Leslie Edward S. , Purkayastha Jayashree , Eshwara Vandana Kalwaje
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Gut pathogen colonization, where pathogens disrupt the normal gut microbiota, has been implicated in the development of bloodstream infections (BSIs). This study investigates the association between gut pathogen colonization and BSI, hypothesizing that species causing BSI primarily originated from gut. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of tertiary care hospital in Karnataka, India, from January 2021 to September 2023. Inborn preterm infants were enrolled. The study population was divided into two groups: group A (neonates without sepsis) and group B (neonates with sepsis). Demographic details and blood culture results were collected. Stool samples were taken on day 4 and day 14 for group A, and on day 4 and the day of sepsis diagnosis for group B. Results: Group B had a lower mean birthweight (1,649.6 ± 652.1 g) compared to group A (1,757 ± 656 g). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common pathogen causing BSIs (44.1%). The analysis revealed a high abundance of potential pathogens in the gut microbiome of group B neonates, with a concurrent decrease in beneficial gut flora. Conclusion: This study provides strong evidence for the association between gut pathogen colonization and BSI development in preterm neonates in NICUs. Gut microbiota modulation may serve as preventive strategy against BSIs, emphasizing the need for further research in this area to improve outcomes in vulnerable population.
Stereotactic Frame-based Targeting of the Posterior Fossa: A systematic workflow for the Leksell G Frame
Authors: Fomenko Anton , Vetkas Artur , Davidson Benjamin , Cho Newton , Kalia Suneil K.
Published: December 2024

Introduction
Cerebellar deep brain stimulation (DBS) is gaining traction as a potential treatment for movement disorders and stroke and there is renewed interest in the cerebellum as a target for neuromodulation. Despite the safety and accuracy of frame-based approaches to the posterior fossa, unconventional stereotactic frame placement may be necessary to allow for low posterior fossa trajectories. Current literature lacks a comprehensive protocol detailing inverted frame placement and targeting.

Methods
Preoperative imaging was acquired prone. An inverted Leksell G frame was applied along with an open-topped CT fiducial box, followed by a prone CT with the scanner set to the “legs first, nose up” configuration. Target coordinates were extracted from navigation software after image fusion. Intraoperatively, the patient was positioned prone and the stereotactic arc was mounted in the lateral-right orientation, with inverted arc supports. Confirmatory stereotaxy to a scalp staple was performed and the DBS leads were then inserted.

Conclusion
Our standardized protocol provides a flexible platform for posterior fossa DBS, allowing for low trajectories and multiple electrodes. Unlike conventional upright frame placement, an inverted frame permits an unobstructed view of suboccipital entry sites and incision placement. A conventional frame and regular planning software are sufficient, with no additional mathematical calculations required.