bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green wall system coupled with slow sand filtration for efficient greywater management at households
Authors: Yadav Ravi K. , Sahoo Siddhant , Yadav Asheesh K. , Patil Sunil A.
Published: November 2023

Green walls are gaining attention for greywater management in the imminent terrestrial space and land constraint scenario. They have been tested primarily with greywater from a single source such as showers, hand or wash basins, laundry, and kitchen or a mix of a couple of these sources but barely with mixed greywater from all these household activities. Here, a green wall system coupled with a slow sand filter (SSF) was tested for managing household greywater. It consisted of a set of five serial hydraulic flow-connected reactors and an SSF unit. Each reactor housed an Epipremnum aureum sapling embedded in the support bed matrix, consisting of cocopeat and granular activated charcoal. The system operated at 150 cm d−1 hydraulic loading rate (HLR) achieved 90 ± 0.7%, 85 ± 4.5%, 72.9 ± 4.4%, and 60.6 ± 5.1% removal efficiencies for turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorous (TP), respectively. The system maintained similar treatment performance with varying greywater strength when COD and TN were below ~400 and ~15 mg L−1, respectively. The polished effluent produced by SSF operated at 187 cm d−1 HLR, with characteristics <5 mg L−1 COD, <2 NTU turbidity, <1 mg L−1 TN, ~0.5 mg L−1 TP, ~7.8 pH, and <100 MPN per 100 ml fecal coliforms, qualifies the standards for non-potable reuse applications. Along with reclaimed water reuse, green walls provide environmental benefits by fixing CO2 in plant biomass. Overall, the low-cost system offers efficient greywater management in an eco-friendly way with minimized resource consumption and areal footprint.
Mouse genome rewriting and tailoring of three important disease loci
Authors: Zhang Weimin , Golynker Ilona , Brosh Ran , Fajardo Alvaro , Zhu Yinan , Wudzinska Aleksandra M. , Ordoñez Raquel , Ribeiro-dos-Santos André M. , Carrau Lucia , Damani-Yokota Payal , Yeung Stephen T. , Khairallah Camille , Vela Gartner Antonio , Chalhoub Noor , Huang Emily , Ashe Hannah J. , Khanna Kamal M. , Maurano Matthew T. , Kim Sang Yong , tenOever Benjamin R. , Boeke Jef D.
Published: November 2023

Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) help us to understand human pathologies and develop new therapies, yet faithfully recapitulating human diseases in mice is challenging. Advances in genomics have highlighted the importance of non-coding regulatory genome sequences, which control spatiotemporal gene expression patterns and splicing in many human diseases1,2. Including regulatory extensive genomic regions, which requires large-scale genome engineering, should enhance the quality of disease modelling. Existing methods set limits on the size and efficiency of DNA delivery, hampering the routine creation of highly informative models that we call genomically rewritten and tailored GEMMs (GREAT-GEMMs). Here we describe ‘mammalian switching antibiotic resistance markers progressively for integration’ (mSwAP-In), a method for efficient genome rewriting in mouse embryonic stem cells. We demonstrate the use of mSwAP-In for iterative genome rewriting of up to 115 kb of a tailored Trp53 locus, as well as for humanization of mice using 116 kb and 180 kb human ACE2 loci. The ACE2 model recapitulated human ACE2 expression patterns and splicing, and notably, presented milder symptoms when challenged with SARS-CoV-2 compared with the existing K18-hACE2 model, thus representing a more human-like model of infection. Finally, we demonstrated serial genome writing by humanizing mouse Tmprss2 biallelically in the ACE2 GREAT-GEMM, highlighting the versatility of mSwAP-In in genome writing.
Glioma synapses recruit mechanisms of adaptive plasticity
Authors: Taylor Kathryn R. , Barron Tara , Hui Alexa , Spitzer Avishay , Yalçin Belgin , Ivec Alexis E. , Geraghty Anna C. , Hartmann Griffin G. , Arzt Marlene , Gillespie Shawn M. , Kim Yoon Seok , Maleki Jahan Samin , Zhang Helena , Shamardani Kiarash , Su Minhui , Ni Lijun , Du Peter P. , Woo Pamelyn J. , Silva-Torres Arianna , Venkatesh Humsa S. , Mancusi Rebecca , Ponnuswami Anitha , Mulinyawe Sara , Keough Michael B. , Chau Isabelle , Aziz-Bose Razina , Tirosh Itay , Suvà Mario L. , Monje Michelle
Published: November 2023

The role of the nervous system in the regulation of cancer is increasingly appreciated. In gliomas, neuronal activity drives tumour progression through paracrine signalling factors such as neuroligin-3 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor1–3 (BDNF), and also through electrophysiologically functional neuron-to-glioma synapses mediated by AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid) receptors4,5. The consequent glioma cell membrane depolarization drives tumour proliferation4,6. In the healthy brain, activity-regulated secretion of BDNF promotes adaptive plasticity of synaptic connectivity7,8 and strength9–15. Here we show that malignant synapses exhibit similar plasticity regulated by BDNF. Signalling through the receptor tropomyosin-related kinase B16 (TrkB) to CAMKII, BDNF promotes AMPA receptor trafficking to the glioma cell membrane, resulting in increased amplitude of glutamate-evoked currents in the malignant cells. Linking plasticity of glioma synaptic strength to tumour growth, graded optogenetic control of glioma membrane potential demonstrates that greater depolarizing current amplitude promotes increased glioma proliferation. This potentiation of malignant synaptic strength shares mechanistic features with synaptic plasticity17–22 that contributes to memory and learning in the healthy brain23–26. BDNF–TrkB signalling also regulates the number of neuron-to-glioma synapses. Abrogation of activity-regulated BDNF secretion from the brain microenvironment or loss of glioma TrkB expression robustly inhibits tumour progression. Blocking TrkB genetically or pharmacologically abrogates these effects of BDNF on glioma synapses and substantially prolongs survival in xenograft models of paediatric glioblastoma and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Together, these findings indicate that BDNF–TrkB signalling promotes malignant synaptic plasticity and augments tumour progression.
Neural signal propagation atlas of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Randi Francesco , Sharma Anuj K. , Dvali Sophie , Leifer Andrew M.
Published: November 2023

Establishing how neural function emerges from network properties is a fundamental problem in neuroscience1. Here, to better understand the relationship between the structure and the function of a nervous system, we systematically measure signal propagation in 23,433 pairs of neurons across the head of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans by direct optogenetic activation and simultaneous whole-brain calcium imaging. We measure the sign (excitatory or inhibitory), strength, temporal properties and causal direction of signal propagation between these neurons to create a functional atlas. We find that signal propagation differs from model predictions that are based on anatomy. Using mutants, we show that extrasynaptic signalling not visible from anatomy contributes to this difference. We identify many instances of dense-core-vesicle-dependent signalling, including on timescales of less than a second, that evoke acute calcium transients—often where no direct wired connection exists but where relevant neuropeptides and receptors are expressed. We propose that, in such cases, extrasynaptically released neuropeptides serve a similar function to that of classical neurotransmitters. Finally, our measured signal propagation atlas better predicts the neural dynamics of spontaneous activity than do models based on anatomy. We conclude that both synaptic and extrasynaptic signalling drive neural dynamics on short timescales, and that measurements of evoked signal propagation are crucial for interpreting neural function.
MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphism’s effect on risk of colorectal cancer in Lynch syndrome
Authors: Wiik Mariann Unhjem , Negline Mia , Beisvåg Vidar , Clapham Matthew , Holliday Elizabeth , Dueñas Nuria , Brunet Joan , Pineda Marta , Bonifaci Nuria , Aretz Stefan , Klinkhammer Hannah , Spier Isabel , Perne Claudia , Mayr Andreas , Valle Laura , Lubinski Jan , Sjursen Wenche , Scott Rodney J. , Talseth-Palmer Bente A.
Published: November 2023

Lynch syndrome (LS) is characterised by an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) and other extracolonic epithelial cancers. It is caused by pathogenic germline variants in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes or the EPCAM gene, leading to a less functional DNA MMR system. Individuals diagnosed with LS (LS individuals) have a 10–80% lifetime risk of developing cancer. However, there is considerable variability in the age of cancer onset, which cannot be attributed to the specific MMR gene or variant alone. It is speculated that multiple genetic and environmental factors contribute to this variability, including two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene: C677T (rs1801133) and A1298C (rs1801131). By decreasing MTHFR activity, these SNPs theoretically reduce the silencing of DNA repair genes and increase the availability of nucleotides for DNA synthesis and repair, thereby protecting against early-onset cancer in LS. We investigated the effect of these SNPs on LS disease expression in 2,723 LS individuals from Australia, Poland, Germany, Norway and Spain. The association between age at cancer onset and SNP genotype (risk of cancer) was estimated using Cox regression adjusted for gender, country and affected MMR gene. For A1298C (rs1801131), both the AC and CC genotypes were significantly associated with a reduced risk of developing CRC compared to the AA genotype, but no association was seen for C677T (rs1801133). However, an aggregated effect of protective alleles was seen when combining the alleles from the two SNPs, especially for LS individuals carrying 1 and 2 alleles. For individuals with germline pathogenic variants in MLH1, the CC genotype of A1298C was estimated to reduce the risk of CRC significantly by 39% (HR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.42, 0.89, p = 0.011), while for individuals with pathogenic germline MSH2 variants, the AC genotype (compared to AA) was estimated to reduce the risk of CRC by 26% (HR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.53, 0.83, p = 0.01). In comparison, no association was observed for C677T (rs1801133). In conclusion, our study suggests that combining the MMR gene information with the MTHFR genotype, including the aggregated effect of protective alleles, could be useful in developing an algorithm that estimates the risk of CRC in LS individuals.
Performance of serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor as a diagnostic marker for lymphoma in patients with fever
Authors: Kanda Naoki , Yamaguchi Ryota , Yamamoto Yu , Matsumura Masami , Hatakeyama Shuji
Published: November 2023

There have been few reports on the diagnostic performance of soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) for lymphoma. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a university hospital; all patients who were admitted to the Division of General Internal Medicine and underwent serum sIL-2R testing were included. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of fever (≥ 38.0 °C). Among 602 patients, 421 had fever and 76 were diagnosed with lymphoma (48 of the 76 were in the febrile group). In all patients, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of sIL-2R for the diagnosis of lymphoma was 0.81 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.75–0.87]. The AUROC was significantly higher in the febrile group (0.88; 95% CI, 0.81–0.94) than in the afebrile group (0.75; 95% CI, 0.65–0.85). In the febrile group, the sensitivity and specificity were 81.2% and 82.3%, respectively, with an optimal cutoff value of 3,250 U/mL. In the afebrile group, they were 89.3% and 54.9%, respectively, with a cutoff value of 868 U/mL. Serum sIL-2R showed high performance as an adjunctive diagnostic marker for lymphoma, particularly among febrile patients. Different cutoff values should be used for patients with and without fever to maximize diagnostic performance.
Technical efficiency and its determinants in regulating adolescents’ coronavirus infection across Asian countries
Authors: Maity Shrabanti , Sinha Anup
Published: November 2023

The coronavirus pandemic, besides generating health distress, influences the socio-economic conditions of humankind. Every adolescent's lifestyle is affected by the virus. Healthy adolescents are not only key contributors to the forthcoming workforce but also a source of a country’s human capital. The purpose of the article is to examine the efficacy of various Asian countries in regulating the spread of the coronavirus among adolescents. In addition to that, the paper also attempts to pinpoint the prime causes of the inefficiency of a country in regulating the same. The paper also examines the behavioural changes among adolescents across Asian countries in pre-and-post pandemic times. In this context, the study identifies the impact of adolescents’ tobacco consumption, female political leadership, and accreditation on a country’s efficacy to regulate adolescents’ coronavirus infection. The study’s empirical analysis covers twenty-one Asian countries. By using the Panel Stochastic Production Frontier, the study concludes that Kazakhstan is the most efficient country and Afghanistan is the least efficient country on the list. The inefficiency effects estimates conclude that adolescents’ tobacco consumption decreases and good governance practices increase the efficiency of a country in regulating the spread of adolescent coronavirus infection. Additionally, the paper finds no significant behavioural changes among adolescents in pre-and-post pandemic times across Asian countries. The paper concludes with appropriate policy recommendations supported by empirical evidence. The paper also identifies its shortcomings and suggests potential future lines of inquiry.
Optimized scheduling study of user side energy storage in cloud energy storage model
Authors: Wang Huidong , Yao Haiyan , Zhou Jizhou , Guo Qiang
Published: November 2023

With the new round of power system reform, energy storage, as a part of power system frequency regulation and peaking, is an indispensable part of the reform. Among them, user-side small energy storage devices have the advantages of small size, flexible use and convenient application, but present decentralized characteristics in space. Therefore, the optimal allocation of small energy storage resources and the reduction of operating costs are urgent problems to be solved. In this study, the author introduced the concept of cloud energy storage and proposed a system architecture and operational model based on the deployment characteristics of user-side energy storage devices. Additionally, a cluster scheduling matching strategy was designed for small energy storage devices in cloud energy storage mode, utilizing dynamic information of power demand, real-time quotations, and supply at the load side. Subsequently, numerical analysis was conducted to verify that the proposed operational mode and optimal scheduling scheme ensured the maximum absorption of renewable energy, improved the utilization rate of energy storage resources at the user side, and contributed to peak shaving and load leveling in the power grid. The model put forward in this study represents a valuable exploration for new scenarios in energy storage application.
Effectiveness of probiotics and clove essential oils in improving growth performance, immuno-antioxidant status, ileum morphometric, and microbial community structure for heat-stressed broilers
Authors: Elbaz Ahmed M. , Ashmawy Eman S. , Ali Safaa A. M. , Mourad Disouky M. , El-Samahy Hanan S. , Badri Faisal B. , Thabet Hany A.
Published: November 2023

Recently, interest has increased in using bio-additives, herbs, and their extracts as feed additives because of their potential role in improving chick's health and productivity, especially during stress. Thus, our aim in this study is to examine whether nutritional supplementation (probiotics and clove essential oils) will help mitigate the negative effect of heat stress on the bird by modifying the microbial content, boosting immunity, oxidative status, metabolic, and growth. In this study, three hundred one-day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were fed the following experimental diet: (CON) basal diet (control diet); (CEO) CON with clove essential oils (300 mg/kg); (PRO) CON with probiotics (2 g/kg); (PC) CON with probiotics and clove essential oils. Our results showed a significant improvement (P < 0.05) in body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, nutrient digestibility, and digestive enzymes activities in broilers fed on PC, CEO, and PRO compared to the control group. Moreover, a significant decrease was recorded in the abdominal fat content and an increase in the relative weight of bursa of Fabricius, and higher antibody levels against Newcastle disease virus, as well as, there was an increase (P < 0.05) in interleukin 10 (IL-10) in all treated groups. Meanwhile, there was a decrease in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in all supplemented groups compared with the control group. Serum triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein concentrations, and alanine aminotransferase activities were significantly lower in the treated groups. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels were elevated (P < 0.05) and the malondialdehyde level value significantly decreased in all supplemented groups. The treated groups enhanced the ileum structure by increasing Lactobacillus, decreasing E. coli, and improving the morphometrically (P < 0.05). This study strongly suggests that clove essential oil and probiotic mixture can be used as a feed supplement to reduce the effects of heat stress by improving the growth performance and enhancing immuno-antioxidant status, ileum morphometric, as well as modifying the microbial community structure of the ileum of broilers.
Essentiality of Nfatc1 short isoform in osteoclast differentiation and its self-regulation
Authors: Omata Yasuhiro , Tachibana Hideyuki , Aizaki Yoshimi , Mimura Toshihide , Sato Kojiro
Published: November 2023

During osteoclast differentiation, the expression of the transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cell 1 (Nfatc1) increases in an autoproliferative manner. Nfatc1 isoforms are of three sizes, and only the short isoform increases during osteoclast differentiation. Genetic ablation of the whole Nfatc1 gene demonstrated that it is essential for osteoclastogenesis; however, the specific role of the Nfatc1 short form (Nfatc1/αA) remains unknown. In this study, we engineered Nfatc1 short form-specific knockout mice and found that these mice died in utero by day 13.5. We developed a novel osteoclast culture system in which hematopoietic stem cells were cultured, proliferated, and then differentiated into osteoclasts in vitro. Using this system, we show that the Nfatc1/αA isoform is essential for osteoclastogenesis and is responsible for the expression of various osteoclast markers, the Nfatc1 short form itself, and Nfatc1 regulators.
A Kinase Interacting Protein 1 regulates mitochondrial protein levels in energy metabolism and promotes mitochondrial turnover after exercise
Authors: Nijholt Kirsten T. , Sánchez-Aguilera Pablo I. , Mahmoud Belend , Gerding Albert , Wolters Justina C. , Wolters Anouk H. G. , Giepmans Ben N. G. , Silljé Herman H. W. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Bakker Barbara M. , Westenbrink B. Daan
Published: November 2023

A Kinase Interacting Protein 1 (AKIP1) is a signalling adaptor that promotes mitochondrial respiration and attenuates mitochondrial oxidative stress in cultured cardiomyocytes. We sought to determine whether AKIP1 influences mitochondrial function and the mitochondrial adaptation in response to exercise in vivo. We assessed mitochondrial respiratory capacity, as well as electron microscopy and mitochondrial targeted-proteomics in hearts from mice with cardiomyocyte-specific overexpression of AKIP1 (AKIP1-TG) and their wild type (WT) littermates. These parameters were also assessed after four weeks of voluntary wheel running. In contrast to our previous in vitro study, respiratory capacity measured as state 3 respiration on palmitoyl carnitine was significantly lower in AKIP1-TG compared to WT mice, whereas state 3 respiration on pyruvate remained unaltered. Similar findings were observed for maximal respiration, after addition of FCCP. Mitochondrial DNA damage and oxidative stress markers were not elevated in AKIP1-TG mice and gross mitochondrial morphology was similar. Mitochondrial targeted-proteomics did reveal reductions in mitochondrial proteins involved in energy metabolism. Exercise performance was comparable between genotypes, whereas exercise-induced cardiac hypertrophy was significantly increased in AKIP1-TG mice. After exercise, mitochondrial state 3 respiration on pyruvate substrates was significantly lower in AKIP1-TG compared with WT mice, while respiration on palmitoyl carnitine was not further decreased. This was associated with increased mitochondrial fission on electron microscopy, and the activation of pathways associated with mitochondrial fission and mitophagy. This study suggests that AKIP1 regulates the mitochondrial proteome involved in energy metabolism and promotes mitochondrial turnover after exercise. Future studies are required to unravel the mechanistic underpinnings and whether the mitochondrial changes are required for the AKIP1-induced physiological cardiac growth.
Phyloproteomic study by MALDI-TOF MS in view of intraspecies variation in a significant homogenous phytopathogen Dickeya solani
Authors: Motyka-Pomagruk Agata , Babinska-Wensierska Weronika , Sledz Wojciech , Kaczorowska Anna-Karina , Lojkowska Ewa
Published: November 2023

Dickeya solani is an economically significant pectinolytic phytopathogen belonging to the Pectobacteriaceae family, which causes soft rot and blackleg diseases. Despite its notable impact on global potato production, there are no effective methods to control this pest. Here, we undertook a phyloproteomic study on 20 D. solani strains, of various origin and year of isolation, with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) supported by an in-depth characterization of the strains in terms of the virulence-associated phenotype. In spite of high homogeneity in this species, we herein revealed for the first time intraspecies variation in the MALDI-TOF MS protein profiles among the studied D. solani isolates. Finally, representative mass spectra for the four delineated clades are presented. A majority of the analysed D. solani strains showed high virulence potential, while two strains stood out in their growth dynamics, virulence factors production and ability to macerate plant tissue. Nonetheless, the metabolic profiles of D. solani strains turned out to be uniform, except for gelatinase activity. Given that all D. solani isolates distinctly grouped from the other Dickeya species in the MALDI-TOF MS analysis, there is strong evidence supporting the potential routine use of this method for fast and reliable to-species identification of D. solani isolates of environmental origin.
Exploring cross-cultural variations in visual attention patterns inside and outside national borders using immersive virtual reality
Authors: Šašinková Alžběta , Čeněk Jiří , Ugwitz Pavel , Tsai Jie-Li , Giannopoulos Ioannis , Lacko David , Stachoň Zdeněk , Fitz Jan , Šašinka Čeněk
Published: November 2023

We examined theories of cross-cultural differences in cognitive style on a sample of 242 participants representing five cultural groups (Czechia, Ghana, eastern and western Turkey, and Taiwan). The experiment involved immersive virtual environments consisting of two salient focal objects and a complex background as stimuli, which were presented using virtual reality headsets with integrated eye-tracking devices. The oculomotor patterns confirmed previous general conclusions that Eastern cultures have a more holistic cognitive style, while Western cultures predominantly have an analytic cognitive style. The differences were particularly noticeable between Taiwan and the other samples. However, we found that the broader cultural background of each group was perhaps just as important as geographical location or national boundaries. For example, observed differences between Eastern (more holistic style) and Western Turkey (more analytic style), suggest the possible influence of varying historical and cultural characteristics on the cognitive processing of complex visual stimuli.
An automated rat grimace scale for the assessment of pain
Authors: Arnold Brendan , Ramakrishnan Rahul , Wright Amirah , Wilson Kelsey , VandeVord Pamela J.
Published: November 2023

Pain is a complex neuro-psychosocial experience that is internal and private, making it difficult to assess in both humans and animals. In pain research, animal models are prominently used, with rats among the most commonly studied. The rat grimace scale (RGS) measures four facial action units to quantify the pain behaviors of rats. However, manual recording of RGS scores is a time-consuming process that requires training. While computer vision models have been developed and utilized for various grimace scales, there are currently no models for RGS. To address this gap, this study worked to develop an automated RGS system which can detect facial action units in rat images and predict RGS scores. The automated system achieved an action unit detection precision and recall of 97%. Furthermore, the action unit RGS classifiers achieved a weighted accuracy of 81–93%. The system’s performance was evaluated using a blast traumatic brain injury study, where it was compared to trained human graders. The results showed an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.82 for the total RGS score, indicating that the system was comparable to human graders. The automated tool could enhance pain research by providing a standardized and efficient method for the assessment of RGS.
Genomic disturbance of vitellogenin 2 (vtg2) leads to vitellin membrane deficiencies and significant mortalities at early stages of embryonic development in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Yilmaz Ozlem , Com Emmanuelle , Pineau Charles , Bobe Julien
Published: November 2023

The specific functions and essentiality of type II vitellogenin (Vtg2) in early zebrafish development were investigated in this study. A vtg2-mutant zebrafish line was produced and effects of genomic disturbance were observed in F2 females and F3 offspring. No change in vtg2 transcript has been detected, however, Vtg2 abundance in F2 female liver was 5×, and in 1 hpf F3 vtg2-mutant embryos was 3.8× less than Wt (p < 0.05). Fecundity was unaffected while fertilization rate was more than halved in F2 vtg2-mutant females (p < 0.05). Hatching rate was significantly higher in F3 vtg2-mutant embryos in comparison to Wt embryos. Survival rate declined drastically to 29% and 18% at 24 hpf and 20 dpf, respectively, in F3 vtg2-mutant embryos. The introduced mutation caused vitelline membrane deficiencies, significant mortalities at early embryonic stages, and morphological abnormalities in the surviving F3 vtg2-mutant larvae. Overrepresentation of histones, zona pellucida proteins, lectins, and protein degradation related proteins in F3 vtg2-mutant embryos provide evidence to impaired mechanisms involved in vitellin membrane formation. Overall findings imply a potential function of Vtg2 in acquisition of vitellin membrane integrity, among other reproductive functions, and therefore, its essentiality in early zebrafish embryo development.
AMMI an GGE biplot analysis of grain yield for drought-tolerant maize hybrid selection in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Li Yipu , Bao Haizhu , Xu Zhenghan , Hu Shuping , Sun Jiying , Wang Zhigang , Yu Xiaofang , Gao Julin
Published: November 2023

Due to the ongoing global warming, maize production worldwide is expected to be heavily inflicted by droughts. The grain yield of maize hybrids is an important factor in evaluating their suitability and stability. In this study, we utilized the AMMI model and GGE biplot to analyze grain yield of 20 hybrids from the three tested environments in Inner Mongolia in 2018 and 2019, aiming at selecting drought-tolerant maize hybrids. AMMI variance analysis revealed highly significant difference on main effects for genotype, environment, and their interaction. Furthermore, G11 (DK159) and G15 (JKY3308) exhibited favorable productivity and stability across all three test environments. Moreover, G10 (LH1) emerged as the most stable hybrid according to the AMMI analysis and the GGE biplot. Bayannur demonstrated the highest identification ability among the three tested sites. Our study provides accurate identification for drought-resilient maize hybrids in different rain-fed regions. These findings can contribute to the selection of appropriate hybrids that exhibit productivity, stability, and adaptability in drought-prone conditions.
Incorporating ecosystem services into functional zoning and adaptive management of natural protected areas as case study of the Shennongjia region in China
Authors: Deng Zheng-yu , Cao Jia-shuo
Published: November 2023

Against the background of global climate change and anthropogenic interference, studying the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of ecosystem services in important ecological function regions and rationally dividing the functional zones will help to promote the construction of the natural protected areas system dominated by national parks. The Shennongjia Region is an important candidate for China's national parks and one of the key pilots. Integrating the InVEST model, Getis-Ord Gi* index, hotspot analysis, GeoDetector and K-means clustering algorithm, we measured five ecosystem services interactions and delineate the functional zones. The results show that the spatial and temporal evolution of various ecosystem services in the Shennongjia Region between 2000 and 2020 was significant. All ecosystem services showed a decreasing and then increasing trend, except for carbon storage, which slowly declined. The ecological status of the region is in the process of polarization, with the local environment showed a trend of continuous deterioration. Water yield-habitat quality and carbon storage-water purification showed synergistic relationships; soil conservation showed trade-offs with water yield, carbon storage and water purification over a wide spatial range. The interaction between land surface temperature and vegetation cover was the most significant dominant factor. Hot spots for the comprehensive ecosystem services index were mainly located in the central and southern parts of the Shennongjia region and four types of ecosystem service functional zones were identified accordingly. This study is of great significance for maximizing the benefits of ecosystem service functions, the efficient allocation of environmental resources and the rational formulation of management policies in natural protected areas.
Cholesterol mediated ferroptosis suppression reveals essential roles of Coenzyme Q and squalene
Authors: Sun Qi , Liu Diming , Cui Weiwei , Cheng Huimin , Huang Lixia , Zhang Ruihao , Gu Junlian , Liu Shuo , Zhuang Xiao , Lu Yi , Chu Bo , Li Jian
Published: November 2023

Recent findings have shown that fatty acid metabolism is profoundly involved in ferroptosis. However, the role of cholesterol in this process remains incompletely understood. In this work, we show that modulating cholesterol levels changes vulnerability of cells to ferroptosis. Cholesterol alters metabolic flux of the mevalonate pathway by promoting Squalene Epoxidase (SQLE) degradation, a rate limiting step in cholesterol biosynthesis, thereby increasing both CoQ10 and squalene levels. Importantly, whereas inactivation of Farnesyl-Diphosphate Farnesyltransferase 1 (FDFT1), the branch point of cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, exhibits minimal effect on ferroptosis, simultaneous inhibition of both CoQ10 and squalene biosynthesis completely abrogates the effect of cholesterol. Mouse models of ischemia-reperfusion and doxorubicin induced hepatoxicity confirm the protective role of cholesterol in ferroptosis. Our study elucidates a potential role of ferroptosis in diseases related to dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism and suggests a possible therapeutic target that involves ferroptotic cell death.
An antioxidant screen identifies ascorbic acid for prevention of light-induced mitotic prolongation in live cell imaging
Authors: Harada Tomoki , Hata Shoji , Takagi Rioka , Komori Takuma , Fukuyama Masamitsu , Chinen Takumi , Kitagawa Daiju
Published: November 2023

Phototoxicity is an important issue in fluorescence live imaging of light-sensitive cellular processes such as mitosis. Among several approaches to reduce phototoxicity, the addition of antioxidants to the media has been used as a simple method. Here, we analyzed the impact of phototoxicity on the mitotic progression in fluorescence live imaging of human cells and performed a screen to identify the most efficient antioxidative agents that reduce it. Quantitative analysis shows that high amounts of light illumination cause various mitotic defects such as prolonged mitosis and delays of chromosome alignment and centrosome separation. Among several antioxidants, our screen reveals that ascorbic acid significantly alleviates these phototoxic effects in mitosis. Furthermore, we demonstrate that adding ascorbic acid to the media enables fluorescence imaging of mitotic events at very high temporal resolution without obvious photodamage. Thus, this study provides an optimal method to effectively reduce the phototoxic effects in fluorescence live cell imaging.
Cucurbit[7]uril-based carbon dots for recognizing histamine
Authors: Hu Jian-Hang , Wang Cheng-Hui , Bai Qing-Hong , Chen Li-Xia , Zhao An-Ting , Yuan Shang-Wei , Chen Qing , Ma Pei-Hua , Tao Zhu , Xiao Xin
Published: November 2023

An effective histamine sensing technique was created using cucurbit[7]uril-CQDs by utilizing the host–guest chemistry.
Single-atom Cu anchored on Mo2C boosts nitrite electroreduction to ammonia
Authors: Wang Guohui , Ma Ruiyuan , Zhang Nana , Guo Yali , Chu Ke
Published: November 2023

Cu single atoms on Mo2C (Cu1/Mo2C) are explored as an efficient catalyst for NO2− electroreduction to NH3, which arises from the creation of Cu–Mo dual-active centers to synergistically activate NO2− and promote the NO2−-to-NH3 energetics.
Hyperbranched polyphthalocyanine micelles with dual PTT/PDT functions for bacteria eradication under an NIR window
Authors: Du Ying , Chu Guangyu , Yu Rui , Cui Rui , Wang Yuling , Mai Yiyong , Guan Ming , Xu Fugui , Zhou Yongfeng
Published: November 2023

A novel hyperbranched polyphthalocyanine micelle with dual-modal PTT/PDT functions was developed for a highly efficient non-antibiotic bacteria eradication under 808 nm NIR window.
The rich structural phase behaviour of 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol
Authors: Barnett S. A. , Bull C. L. , Funnell N. P. , Allan D. R.
Published: November 2023

A remarkable degree of polymorphism is exhibited in the high-pressure and low-temperature crystal structures of 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol, with the observation of four ordered phases (forms 1–4) and a cubic rotor phase (form 5).
Alternating [ML2(MeOH)2] and [ML2(EtOH)2] layers in low-temperature ferromagnets [ML2(MeOH)2][ML2(EtOH)2] (M = CoII, NiII or CoII0.5NiII0.5)
Authors: Ovcharenko Victor , Fursova Elena , Letyagin Gleb , Morozov Vitaly , Bogomyakov Artem , Romanenko Galina
Published: November 2023

Crystallization of Co(ii) and Ni(ii) complexes with a 3-imidazoline nitroxide derivative from a mixture of MeOH and EtOH (1 : 10) leads to the formation of complexes with an ordered alternation of supramolecular MeOH- and EtOH-containing layers.
Polarity reversal and strain modulation of Janus MoSSe/GaN polar semiconductor heterostructures
Authors: Kong Delin , Tian Feng , Xu Yingying , Zhu Shaoqun , Yu Zetong , Xiong Lefeng , Li Peipei , Wei Huiyun , Zheng Xinhe , Peng Mingzeng
Published: November 2023

2D/3D Janus TMDs/III-nitrides polar heterointerfaces enable polarity manipulation to modulate their structural stability, electrostatic potential, charge transfer, and electronic band-structures for developing novel multifunctional applications.
Nonadiabatic molecular dynamics simulations for ultrafast photo-induced ring-opening and isomerization reactions of 2,2-diphenyl-2H-chromene
Authors: Wang He , Yang Tianhe , Li Yuechun , Yu Le , Lei Yibo , Zhu Chaoyuan
Published: November 2023

Potential energy surface profiles for ground state and the first excited-state of 2,2-diphenyl-2H-chromene (DPC) including two conical intersections that govern the ring-opening and photoisomerization reaction dynamics of the DPC system.
Toward practical anode-free lithium pouch batteries
Authors: Dong Liwei , Zhong Shijie , Zhang Shuhao , Yuan Botao , Liu Jipeng , Xie Haodong , Zhang Caomeng , Liu Yuanpeng , Yang Chunhui , Han Jiecai , He Weidong
Published: November 2023

This review aims to provide a systematic overview of high-energy-density anode-free lithium pouch batteries, focusing on the research progress in recent years and predicting subsequent development directions.
Rational element-doping of FeOOH-based electrocatalysts for efficient ammonia electrosynthesis
Authors: Wang Haifan , Yuan Menglei , Zhang Jingxian , Bai Yiling , Zhang Ke , Li Bin , Zhang Guangjin
Published: November 2023

Rational modulation of the Fe d-orbital electronic structure to strengthen d–π* orbital interaction and activate N2.
CO2-derived non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs) and their potential applications
Authors: Turnaturi Rita , Zagni Chiara , Patamia Vincenzo , Barbera Vincenzina , Floresta Giuseppe , Rescifina Antonio
Published: November 2023

Using CO2 as feedstock to fabricate valuable products has become essential to green and sustainable chemistry and represents a rewarding challenge.
Taming of 4-azido-3,5-dinitropyrazole based energetic materials
Authors: Das Priyanka , Bhatia Prachi , Pandey Krishna , Kumar Dheeraj
Published: November 2023

Energetic and physicochemical properties of 4-azido-3,5-dinitropyrazole based energetic compounds were fine-tuned by connecting it to 5-nitramino-1,2,4-oxadiazole moieties via N-methylene-C bridges and energetic salt formation strategy.
A review on hybridization of plasmonic and photonic crystal biosensors for effective cancer cell diagnosis
Authors: Kumela Alemayehu Getahun , Gemta Abebe Belay , Hordofa Alemu Kebede , Birhanu Ruth , Mekonnen Habtamu Dagnaw , Sherefedin Umer , Weldegiorgis Kinfe
Published: November 2023

Cancer causes one in six deaths worldwide, and 1.6 million cancer patients face annual out-of-pocket medical expenditures.
A pH-responsive hollow mesoporous SiO2 nanocarrier designed for the ultrasensitive detection of alpha-fetoprotein
Authors: Cong Bing , Li Pengli , Li Hongling , Hong Chenglin , Qiao Xiuwen
Published: November 2023

A metal ion (organic small molecule)-HMSS@HA bioresponsive release system is used as a signal amplification immunosensor.
Triphenylamine-based N,O-bidentate BF2 complexes: synthesis and photophysical properties
Authors: Yang Dong , Li Shuanglong
Published: November 2023

N,O-bidentate BF2 dyes (TTBKI-1 and TTBKI-2) with D–π–A structures were designed and synthesized by combining an electron-donating triphenylamine unit, a π-conjugated thiophene unit, and an electron-accepting NBF2O moiety.
A colorimetric and fluorescent signaling probe for assaying Pd2+ in practical samples
Authors: Choi Myung Gil , Han Juyoung , Ahn Sangdoo , Chang Suk-Kyu
Published: November 2023

A colorimetric and fluorescent signaling probe was developed for Pd2+ assay in Pd-containing catalyst and drug candidate, with a rapid response and high selectivity.
Elucidating anticancer drugs release from UiO-66 as a carrier through the computational approaches
Authors: Boroushaki Tahereh , Ganjali Koli Mokhtar , Eshaghi Malekshah Rahime , Dekamin Mohammad G.
Published: November 2023

This research focuses on the computational analysis of drug release from UiO-66 as a metal–organic framework (MOF). It studies the release patterns of temozolomide, alendronate and 5-fluorouracil.
One-dimensional H2V3O8 nanorods and two-dimensional lamellar MXene composites as efficient cathode materials for aqueous rechargeable zinc ion batteries
Authors: Duan Wenyuan , Chen Shenghua , Li Yanlin , Chen Shaoquan , Zhao Yuzhen
Published: November 2023

The energy crisis is a the worldwide problem which needs humans to solve immediately.
Therapeutic drug monitoring of immunotherapies with novel Affimer–NanoBiT sensor construct
Authors: Campbell Emma , Adamson Hope , Luxton Timothy , Tiede Christian , Wälti Christoph , Tomlinson Darren C. , Jeuken Lars J. C.
Published: November 2023

An engineered biosensor merges a split luciferase with Affimer proteins to detect pM concentrations of four therapeutic monoclonal antibodies in serum. A 10 minute run time suggests it could be a promising point-of-care test for drug monitoring.
Nematic–isotropic phase transitions in thin slabs of liquid crystals with topological defect arrays
Authors: Chen Hao , Jiang Miao , Guo Yubing , Chaganava Irakli , Wei Qi-Huo
Published: November 2023

This paper studies the nematic-to-isotropic phase transitions in thin slabs of nematic liquid crystals with photopatterned topological defect arrays and show how they are impacted by both the heating rate and the topological strengths of these defects.
ZnO–CoS heterostructure quantum dots for enhanced electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction to ammonia
Authors: Ji Yuyao , Hu Qiang , Yang Mingyu , Liu Xingquan
Published: November 2023

In 0.1 M Na2SO4, ZnO–CoS quantum dots attained a high NH3 yield of 33.03 μg h−1 mgcat.−1 and a high FE of 11.7% at −0.20 V vs. a reversible hydrogen electrode, with high electrochemical and structural stability.
Mechanism of positive electret inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus biofilms
Authors: Wang Hongbao , Liang Hejuan , Guo Xin , Xu Jiajie , Jiang Jian , Sun Zhipeng , Liang Yuanyuan
Published: November 2023

Bacterial biofilm is an important factor in bacterial drug resistance. Recently, it has been proved that electret films can inhibit the bacterial biofilm, while its mechanism of action on biofilms is under further investigation. In this work, taking Staphylococcus aureus as an example, the inhibition of positive electret on bacterial biofilm was verified and its mechanism was explained. Two factors have been found to explain the inhibition mechanism of electret on bacterial biofilms. One is probably due to its inhibition of the expression of key genes related to bacterial biofilms induced by the electric field of positive electret, and the other is to prevent the aggregation of bacteria rather than the direct bactericidal effect. The conclusions are expected to be extended to other types of bacteria and expand the application of electrostatic materials in the field of biomedicine.
Determinants of The Quality Human Resources in West Kalimantan Province
Authors: Yuliadi Imamudin , Meynisa Riri
Published: November 2023

This study aims to analyze the determinants of human resources reflected by the Human Development Index (HDI) in West Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. In this study, 14 regencies/cities in West Kalimantan Province served as the research object. The data were secondary from the Central Bureau of Statistics of West Kalimantan Province from 2017-2021. The analysis tool combined the panel data method with a fixed-effect model approach. Based on the analysis, while the poverty variable negatively and significantly affected HDI, HDI was favorably and strongly impacted by the variables per capita expenditure, unemployment, and gross regional product (GDP). For the government, it is recommended to make policies, such as providing capital to MSME actors, farmers, fishermen, and others, to develop their businesses and boost productivity and people's welfare
Utilization of Mortar Waste as Environmentally Friendly Construction Material Replacement to Support Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Astuti Pinta , Purnama Adhitya Yoga , Kencono Dewi Sekar , Pramana Alfido Ardhi , Nooriswar Farkhan
Published: November 2023

Due to its numerous advantages, concrete has become the most utilized construction material globally. However, concrete production causes environmental issues due to the high demand at each batching plant. Yogyakarta’s ready-mix concrete factory generates 60 m3 of waste mortar monthly without further processing. This research examined the mortar waste as a replacement component for other valued construction materials, such as repair mortar, structural components, and rigid pavement, to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 9 and 11. Several laboratory tests were conducted, encompassing grain size analysis, specific gravity, water absorption, mud content, and water content. The user survey aims to understand the perspective and acceptance of using mortar waste as a construction material. Due to the test parameters not exceeding the required threshold, the results unveiled that the mortar waste could be applied as aggregate replacement in construction materials from an environmental perspective. In addition, the survey results expressed positive responses from potential material users.
Public Participation in Regulation on the Protection of Marine Resources
Authors: Puluhulawa Fenty , Adelina Harun Amanda , Mamu Karlin
Published: November 2023

This article discusses the significance of participation of the community as an el-ement of control/supervision regarding the conservation of marine resources. This is particularly crucial, considering that Pohuwato Regency, which is located in the Tomini Bay area, is a strategic region with high potential for fishery re-sources. In addition, the region also boasts beautiful coastal area as well as other marine-related assets such as coral reefs and mangroves. As an imminent threat to the region’s potentials, the technique of destruction fishing not only impacts to the fishery resources, but also damages the marine ecosys-tem. Therefore, public participation is of significance to maintain the sustainability of marine and coastal resources. The research was conducted using an empirical juridical approach. The data collection technique was carried out through a process of interviews and fo-cus group discussions with various relevant stakeholders as determined purpos-ively. Moreover, a descriptive method was employed to analyze the data. The re-sults show that the existing laws and regulations have provided opportunities for the public to participate in monitoring and reporting of any indications of unlaw-ful acts. Several factors are of importance to be highlighted to optimize the public participation.
Advancing the Digital Cities Program in Iligan, Southern Philippines
Authors: Ecleo Jerina Jean , Beneros-Beloy Jerame , Fabillaran Flore Mae , Galido Adrian
Published: November 2023

The Digital Cities 2025, intended to enable inclusive growth, has the potential to advance LGUs and MSMEs. This paper assesses the initiatives of the LGU and MSMEs in Iligan City, i.e., among the cities aspiring to be a digital city, as a case. Two studies were consolidated with one employing a desk review on the social media presence of the LGUs and the other a focus group discussion with regional stakeholders to gauge current capacity on the digita lobs PH training program. Results highlight the need to address digital divide through infrastructure and capability building to support attaining the country’s Digital Cities Program. Further assessments on digitalization are encouraged to reinforce countryside development.