bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Combustion Performance of Dual Fuel Combustion With Diesel and Port Injected Hydrogen in A Large Bore Locomotive Engine
Authors: O'Donnell Patrick C. , Kazmouz Samuel J. , Wu Sicong , Klingbeil Adam , Lavertu Thomas , Jayakar Vijayaselvan , Sapkota Pradeep , Liu Shuaishuai , Wijeyakulasuriya Sameera , Ameen Muhsin
Published: January 2025

The heavy-duty transportation sector has primarily relied on conventional diesel combustion engines given their reliability and high thermal efficiency relative to spark ignition engines, but increased focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions has led to investigation into alternative fuels. Gaseous hydrogen fuel has garnered a great deal of recent interest in the engine community given it has zero carbon, but hydrogen is not available at the scale and cost that petroleum fuels are currently available, and this is a barrier to adoption for industries that are looking to decarbonize their operations. Because of the fuel flexibility provided, dual fuel technology offers a pathway for some industries to adopt hydrogen as a fuel source while maintaining sufficient flexibility in times and locations where the new fuel is not yet available. This computational study investigates dual fuel combustion in a large bore locomotive engine architecture using direct injected diesel and port injected gaseous hydrogen fuel. With an optimal port fuel injection configuration from previous work, simulations of varying substitution ratio, compression ratio, manifold air temperature, diesel injection timing, and diesel injection pressure were performed to understand their effect on combustion performance. Results indicated that both increased substitution ratio and higher intake air temperature accelerates hydrogen flame propagation and can result in high peak cylinder pressures. Additionally, diesel injection timing and injection pressure were demonstrated as effective methods for controlling dual fuel combustion heat release rates.
Utilizing Flexible Magnetic-Alloy Sheet With Rolling-to-Attaching Method to Fabricate a Smart Nail for Electromagnetic Screw-Hole Targeting in Intramedullary Interlocking-Nail Surgery
Authors: Kohli Mayank , Wong Tze-Hong , Hsu Wensyang , Chung Tien-Kan
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we present a novel method to fabricate a smart nail for electromagnetic targeting of distal screw-holes in intramedullary interlocking-nail surgery. The nail is fabricated by using a flexible magnetic-alloy Metglas sheet with a rolling-to-attaching method. That is, among most high permeable magnetic materials, the Metglas sheet has superior features in flexibility and bendability and therefore can be rolled and inserted inside the nail to conform accordingly to curvature of internal surface of the nail. Regarding the targeting system, we used a conventional C-shaped electromagnet (which consists of a C-shaped silicon steel core, emitting coil, and receiving coil) with corresponding measurement electronic instruments as the targeting system. Initially, an AC input voltage is applied to the emitting coil to generate magnetic flux within the gap (i.e., air) between emitting coil and receiving coil. As a result of electromagnetic induction, an AC voltage is induced in the receiving coil. As the nail is axially moved or rotated within the gap (i.e., air) between the emitting and receiving coils, the magnetic flux between the coils is influenced, leading to a change in the voltage output of the receiving coil. This change in voltage is further assessed to identify location and orientation of the Metglas sheet (as well as that of screw holes). Based on this targeting principle, we conduct location and orientation targeting tests. Results show that our method not only can successfully achieve these targeting but also significantly simplifies the complexity of both targeting system and surgical procedure, in practical perspective.
K-Edge Measurement Technology Simulation Model Design
Authors: Li Wen-Tao , He Li-Xia , Bai Lei , Zhao Xiao , Zhang Yu-Qi , Zhao Hao-Cheng
Published: January 2025

The K-edge technique is a nondestructive analysis (NDA) method that provides key data for nuclear material accountancy, mainly for the measurement of U and Pu concentrations in spent fuel reprocessing processes, with an analytical accuracy close to that of chemical analytical techniques. By analyzing the transmission spectrum of the light source absorbed by the sample, there is a distinct K-edge absorption jump in the spectrum at relatively high U concentrations, the intensity of which correlates with the U elemental concentration. The accuracy of the K-edge analysis technique is mainly affected by the K-edge absorption distance, the resolution of the detector, the intensity of the light source, and other parameters. Based on the principle of K-edge technology and particle transport theory, the article establishes the calculation model of K-edge measurement technology, which includes key components such as the continuous X-ray light source, high-purity germanium detector, cylindrical sample, collimator, and so on. In terms of light source setting, the light source function was obtained by linear interpolation method according to the X-ray light source model formula; in terms of K-edge absorption distance, the average K-edge absorption distance calculation method was adopted to improve the concentration calculation formula. The calibration factor was obtained under the experimental conditions with 8 mm diameter sample bottles. Under identical experimental conditions, the validation was tested out using samples with concentrations of 150 g/L. The reconstructed uranium concentrations were 148.5 g/L, with deviations of 1% between the initial values. To validate the average absorption distance calculation approach, a series of solutions with uranium concentrations ranging from 20 to 170 g/L were configured, and the calibration factors were computed. To further validate the correctness of the modified concentration calculation formula, the diameters of the sample bottles were altered to 6 mm and 10 mm, and the corresponding calibration factors were obtained, respectively. Verification experiments were subsequently carried out using solutions with concentrations of 150 g/L. The simulation outcomes validate the accuracy of the model and the modified concentration calculation formula. The calculation model constructed in the article combines with actual application scenarios to provide preliminary technical assurance for the expansion and optimization of K-edge measurement technology.
Effective bulk and mass densities of randomly distributed coated cylinders in fluid
Authors: Sellami Asma , Franklin Hervé , Njeh Anouar , Maréchal Pierre
Published: January 2025

Inhomogeneous media made of random configurations of coated circular cylinders are considered. The effective properties—wave number, mass density, bulk modulus—are discussed and illustrated. The effects of the volume fraction of the scatterers and surrounding fluid are also examined. Estimations of the effective bulk modulus and mass density are provided at the static limit with the aim of generalizing some existing results for uncoated cylinders to multicoated ones. In all cases, time harmonic waves are scattered and the Norris and Conoir [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 129, 104–113 (2011)] multiple scattering expansion for the effective wavenumber used to derive the properties.
Global cellular proteo-lipidomic profiling of diverse lysosomal storage disease mutants using nMOST
Authors: Kraus Felix , He Yuchen , Swarup Sharan , Overmyer Katherine A. , Jiang Yizhi , Brenner Johann , Capitanio Cristina , Bieber Anna , Jen Annie , Nightingale Nicole M. , Anderson Benton J. , Lee Chan , Paulo Joao A. , Smith Ian R. , Plitzko Jürgen M. , Gygi Steven P. , Schulman Brenda A. , Wilfling Florian , Coon Joshua J. , Harper J. Wade
Published: January 2025

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) comprise ~50 monogenic disorders marked by the buildup of cellular material in lysosomes, yet systematic global molecular phenotyping of proteins and lipids is lacking. We present a nanoflow-based multiomic single-shot technology (nMOST) workflow that quantifies HeLa cell proteomes and lipidomes from over two dozen LSD mutants. Global cross-correlation analysis between lipids and proteins identified autophagy defects, notably the accumulation of ferritinophagy substrates and receptors, especially in
NPC1
−/−
and
NPC2
−/−
mutants, where lysosomes accumulate cholesterol. Autophagic and endocytic cargo delivery failures correlated with elevated lysophosphatidylcholine species and multilamellar structures visualized by cryo–electron tomography. Loss of mitochondrial cristae, MICOS complex components, and OXPHOS components rich in iron-sulfur cluster proteins in
NPC2
−/−
cells was largely alleviated when iron was provided through the transferrin system. This study reveals how lysosomal dysfunction affects mitochondrial homeostasis and underscores nMOST as a valuable discovery tool for identifying molecular phenotypes across LSDs.
A world less safe and secure
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O. , Meier Benjamin Mason
Published: January 2025

On 20 January, President Trump announced the withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). President Trump shares many of the same concerns about WHO as previous administrations, including improved transparency, financial oversight, and accountability. He also believes that China has exerted undue influence on WHO—a charge that WHO adamantly denies. But the US cannot influence WHO if it is not at the table. WHO will remain at the center of global health governance, but this withdrawal will limit US leadership to protect public health and challenge WHO coordination in facing global challenges.
Development of the Incompatible Insect Technique targeting
Aedes albopictus
: introgression of a wild nuclear background restores the performance of males artificially infected with
Wolbachia
Authors: Lejarre Quentin , Scussel Sarah , Esnault Jérémy , Gaudillat Benjamin , Duployer Marianne , Mavingui Patrick , Tortosa Pablo , Cattel Julien
Published: January 2025

The bacterium
Wolbachia pipientis
is increasingly studied for its potential use in controlling insect vectors or pests due to its ability to induce Cytoplasmic Incompatibility (CI). CI can be exploited by establishing an opportunistic
Wolbachia
infection in a targeted insect species through trans-infection and then releasing the infected males into the environment as sterilizing agents. Several host life history traits (LHT) have been reported to be negatively affected by artificial
Wolbachia
infection.
Wolbachia
is often considered the causative agent of these detrimental effects, and the importance of the host’s genetic origins in the outcome of trans-infection is generally overlooked. In this study, we investigated the impact of host genetic background using an
Aedes albopictus
line recently trans-infected with
w
Pip from the
Culex pipiens
mosquito, which exhibited some fitness costs. We measured several LHTs including fecundity, egg hatch rate, and male mating competitiveness in the incompatible line after four rounds of introgression aiming at restoring genetic diversity in the nuclear genome. Our results show that introgression with a wild genetic background restored most fitness traits and conferred mating competitiveness comparable to that of wild males. Finally, we show that introgression leads to faster and stronger population suppression under laboratory conditions. Overall, our data support that the host genome plays a decisive role in determining the fitness of
Wolbachia
-infected incompatible males.

IMPORTANCE

The bacterium
Wolbachia pipientis
is increasingly used to control insect vectors and pests through the Incompatible Insect Technique (IIT) inducing a form of conditional sterility when a
Wolbachia
-infected male mates with an uninfected or differently infected female.
Wolbachia
artificial trans-infection has been repeatedly reported to affect mosquitoes LHTs, which may in turn compromise the efficiency of IIT. Using a tiger mosquito (
Aedes albopictus
) line recently trans-infected with a
Wolbachia
strain from
Culex pipiens
and displaying reduced fitness, we show that restoring genetic diversity through introgression significantly mitigated the fitness costs associated with
Wolbachia
trans-infection. This was further demonstrated through experimental population suppression, showing that introgression is required to achieve mosquito population suppression under laboratory conditions. These findings are significant for the implementation of IIT programs, as an increase in female fecundity and male performance improves mass rearing productivity as well as the sterilizing capacity of released males.
A splice donor in
E6
influences keratinocyte immortalization by beta-HPV49
Authors: Rehm Tina M. , Iftner Thomas , Stubenrauch Frank
Published: January 2025

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) from the genus beta have been implicated in the development of cutaneous squamous cell cancer in
epidermodysplasia verruciformis
and organ transplant patients. In contrast to alpha-high-risk HPV, which cause ano-genital and oropharyngeal cancers, beta-HPV replication is not well understood. The beta-HPV49 transcriptome was analyzed by RNA sequencing using stable keratinocyte cell lines maintaining high levels of extrachromosomally replicating E8- genomes, which can be established due to a lack of the viral E8^E2 repressor protein. This analysis indicated the presence of four transcription start sites, two polyadenylation signals, and splice donor (SD) and acceptor sites consistent with the conserved gene expression patterns of animal and human PV. Surprisingly, a novel SD in the
E6
oncogene (SD217) was identified resembling the SD in
E6
of carcinogenic alpha-HPV. Mutation of SD217 enhanced E6 protein expression but had no influence on the growth of keratinocytes transduced with retroviral HPV49 E6 and E7 expression vectors. Inactivation of SD217 in the context of the HPV49 wild-type genome did not enable immortalization and prevented immortalization in the context of the E8- genome. The analysis of SD217 mutant genomes revealed a strong down-regulation of SD217 usage, but only weak effects on other viral transcripts. This suggests that SD217 does not contribute to immortalization by modulating viral gene expression. Usage of SD217 is increased in immortalized E8- cell lines compared with transiently transfected cells, which may indicate that long-term extrachromosomal maintenance requires reduced E6 protein levels.

IMPORTANCE

High-risk (hr) human papillomaviruses (HPV) from the genus alpha cause ano-genital and oropharyngeal cancers, whereas beta-HPV have been implicated to cause skin cancer in
epidermodysplasia verruciformis
and organ transplant patients. In contrast to alpha hr-HPV, the replication cycle of beta-HPV is not very well understood. Transcriptional profiling of beta-HPV49 by RNA sequencing reveals transcription start sites and splice sites conserved among HPV. Surprisingly, a splice donor site in the
E6
oncogene (SD217), previously only described for hr-HPV, was identified that controls E6 oncoprotein levels and is required for immortalization of keratinocytes by the HPV49 genome.
Autophagy-mediated TET2 degradation by ALV-J Env protein suppresses innate immune activation to promote viral replication
Authors: Chen Shihao , Wang Jiaxing , Wang Qiangzhou , Ping Yuyu , Yang Ting , Ma Kejiao , Pan Shiyu , Bi Yulin , Bai Hao , Chang Guobin
Published: January 2025

Avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) poses a significant threat to the poultry industry; yet, our understanding of its replication and pathogenic mechanisms is limited. The Ten-Eleven Translocation 2 (TET2) is an indispensable regulatory factor in active DNA demethylation and immune response regulation. This study reports a significant and time-dependent decrease in TET2 levels following ALV-J infection and shows that the reduction of TET2 protein is mediated by the autophagy pathway. Mechanistically, we found that the accumulation of the Env protein at the late stages of ALV-J infection triggers autophagy, which, in turn, causes the TET2 protein to be exported from the nucleus and subsequently degraded in the cytoplasm. Using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, we generated TET2-deficient chicken macrophages that exhibited increased susceptibility to ALV-J replication, which was reversed by TET2 overexpression. In addition, transcriptome analysis revealed that the absence of TET2 in chicken macrophages impairs the expression of numerous cytokines and innate immune-related genes, particularly those downregulated genes enriched in the RIG-I and Toll-like signaling pathways, leading to enhanced replication of ALV-J
in vitro
. In summary, our research identifies TET2 as an ALV-J restriction factor. However, ALV-J exploits the autophagy machinery to promote the degradation of TET2 protein, thereby disrupting the host’s innate immune responses for viral replication.

IMPORTANCE

ALV-J is a carcinogenic retrovirus that plays a critical role in avian leukosis, primarily affecting chickens. Infection with ALV-J leads to decreased production performance, compromised immune function, and the development of tumors, such as myelocytoma. Currently, there are no effective treatments for ALV-J, making the control of outbreaks a significant challenge with severe economic consequences for the poultry industry. The Env protein of ALV-J has been implicated in the virus’s pathogenicity. Our study shows that ALV-J infection induces autophagy in host cells through its Env protein, leading to the autophagic degradation of TET2, a key epigenetic regulator. The loss of TET2 in macrophages results in the downregulation of innate immune-related gene expression, thereby promoting viral replication. This is the first report to elucidate the role of the ALV-J Env protein in immune suppression
via
TET2 autophagic degradation during ALV-J infection, providing new insights into the mechanisms of viral immune evasion.
Marek’s disease virus-encoded microRNA-M6-5p facilitates viral latent infection by targeting histone demethylase KDM2B
Authors: Zhou Linyi , Zhu Runan , Jiang Bo , Cheng Jing , Liu Wenxiao , Yao Yongxiu , Li Yongqing
Published: January 2025

Marek’s disease virus (MDV), a highly contagious and oncogenic avian alphaherpesvirus, establishes a latent infection primarily in CD4
+
T cells. Latent infections are necessary for both persistent lifelong MDV infection and viral tumorigenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles as post-transcriptional regulators of viral infections. However, the role of miRNAs in regulating MDV latency remains unclear. In this study, we found that an MDV-encoded miRNA, miR-M6-5p, inhibited viral lytic replication
in vitro
by functional screening and that infection with an MDV mutant lacking miR-M6-5p resulted in impaired MDV latency, proliferation, and tumor formation
in vivo
. Importantly, we identified lysine-specific demethylase 2b (KDM2B), an important epigenetic factor, as a target of miR-M6-5p. Furthermore, KDM2B knockdown increased the level of the transcriptionally repressive histone mark H3K27me3 on the key lytic gene pp38 promoter, accompanied by suppression of pp38 expression and reduced latent-to-lytic switch in MDV-latently infected cells, while treatment of cells with H3K27me3 inhibitors (GSK126 and Tazemetostat) markedly promoted the expression of pp38 and MDV reactivation from latency. Thus, miR-M6-5p facilitates MDV latency by epigenetically suppressing pp38 expression by targeting KDM2B. These ﬁndings unravel the mechanism by which a virus-encoded miRNA plays a critical role in the regulation of latent MDV infection.

IMPORTANCE

Similar to other herpesviruses, MDV can establish a lifelong latent infection in the host. During the latency, MDV integrates its genome into the host genome to maintain the viral genome, which is considered a prerequisite for tumor formation. Reactivation of the latent viral genome in response to intracellular and extracellular stimuli re-enters lytic replication, resulting in pathological recurrence and/or viral shedding. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying MDV latency remain poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the role of virus-encoded miRNAs in MDV latency. We found that miR-M6-5p facilitated MDV latency, proliferation, and tumor formation
in vivo
. Mechanistically, miR-M6-5p epigenetically suppressed the expression of the viral lytic gene pp38 by directly targeting the histone demethylase KDM2B. These ﬁndings will advance our understanding of the role of virus-encoded miRNA in the regulation of viral latency and will help guide the development of novel strategies for the effective control of MDV.
A novel neutralizing antibody recognizing a conserved conformational epitope in PDCoV S1 protein and its therapeutic efficacy in piglets
Authors: Chen Rui , Zhou Guiping , Yang Junpeng , Yuan Rong , Sun Ying , Liang Yixiao , Wu Rui , Wen Yiping , Wang Yiping , Zhao Qin , Du Senyan , Yan Qigui , Cao Sanjie , Huang Xiaobo
Published: January 2025

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an enteric pathogen that burdens the global pig industry and is a public health concern. The development of effective antiviral therapies is necessary for the prevention and control of PDCoV, yet to date, there are few studies on the therapeutic potential of PDCoV-neutralizing antibodies. Here, we investigate the therapeutic potential of a novel monoclonal antibody (mAb 4A6) which targets the PDCoV S1 protein and effectively neutralizes PDCoV, both pre- and post-attachment on cells, with IC50 values of 0.537 and 8.487 µg/mL, respectively. A phage-display peptide library was used to determine the epitope recognized by mAb 4A6, and two mimotopes, QYPVSYA (P1) and FPHWPTI (P2), were identified. KLH-P1 reacted with PDCoV-positive sera but failed to induce PDCoV-specific IgG and neutralizing antibodies in mice, suggesting P1 does not fully mimic the conformational epitope. Molecular docking and alanine scanning mutagenesis revealed that S461, P462, T463, E465, and Y467 on the S protein are essential for mAb 4A6 binding. Antibody therapy experiments in PDCoV-infected piglets showed that administering mAb 4A6 once or twice could delay the onset of diarrhea symptoms, reduce the severity of diarrhea, and decrease virus shedding. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that mAb 4A6 holds promise as a treatment against PDCoV, and the amino acids recognized by mAb 4A6 will be valuable for developing novel epitope-based vaccines or antiviral drugs.

IMPORTANCE

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is a novel swine enteropathogenic coronavirus that poses a potential threat to public health. Developing effective antiviral therapies is crucial for its prevention and control. Here, we demonstrated that mAb 4A6 shows promise as a treatment against PDCoV. Antibody therapy experiments conducted on PDCoV-infected piglets revealed that administering mAb 4A6 once or twice could delay the onset of diarrhea symptoms, reduce the severity of diarrhea, and decrease virus shedding. Furthermore, we characterized the conformational epitope (S461, P462, T463, E465, and Y467) recognized by mAb 4A6 through an integrated approach involving phage display peptide library, molecular docking, and alanine scanning mutagenesis. More importantly, mAb 4A6 exhibits a broad-spectrum neutralizing activity against different PDCoV strains. These findings indicate that mAb 4A6 has promising therapeutic value for PDCoV-infected piglets, and the identification of mAb 4A6 recognized epitope may provide a new idea for the identification of conformational epitopes.
The cytoplasmic tail of IBV spike mediates intracellular retention via interaction with COPI-coated vesicles in retrograde trafficking
Authors: Liang Rong , Tian Jiaxin , Liu Kangchengyin , Ma Liman , Yang Ruihua , Sun Lu , Zhao Jing , Zhao Ye , Zhang Guozhong
Published: January 2025

Coronaviruses are characterized by their progeny assembly and budding in the endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC). Our previous studies demonstrated that truncation of 9 amino acids in the cytoplasmic tail (CT) of the infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) spike (S) protein impairs its localization to the ERGIC, resulting in increased expression at the plasma membrane. However, the precise mechanism underlying this phenomenon remained elusive. In this study, we provide evidence that the IBV S protein could utilize coatomer protein-I (COPI)-coated vesicles for retrograde transport from the Golgi to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We identified the KKSV motif as the critical binding site within the CT domain of IBV S protein for COPI interaction. Further analysis reveals that IBV infection does not modulate host COPI expression. However, when COPI expression is disrupted, a higher proportion of S protein escapes to the plasma membrane. Moreover, inhibition of COPI-mediated transport during viral infection severely impairs progeny virion production and leads to increased S protein accumulation at the plasma membrane, inducing cell-cell fusion and syncytia formation. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of S protein intracellular trafficking during coronavirus infection, and offer valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of viral replication and host cell biology.

IMPORTANCE

Viruses hijack or modify host cellular machiner
y
and associated pathways to facilitate their own replication. Here, we demonstrate that the infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) S protein directly interacts with coatomer protein-I (COPI)-coated vesicles through the KKSV motif in its cytoplasmic tail. COPI-coated vesicles mediate the retrograde transport of S protein from the Golgi apparatus to the endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi intermediate compartment, where viral particle assembly occurs. Our findings not only advance our understanding of IBV S protein trafficking mechanisms but also provide valuable insights for developing more effective vaccine strategies.
The combination of
Clostridium butyricum
and
Akkermansia muciniphila
mitigates DSS-induced colitis and attenuates colitis-associated tumorigenesis by modulating gut microbiota and reducing CD8
+
T cells in mice
Authors: Hua Dengxiong , Yang Qin , Li Xiaowei , Zhou Xuexue , Kang Yingqian , Zhao Yan , Wu Daoyan , Zhang Zhengrong , Li Boyan , Wang Xinxin , Qi Xiaolan , Chen Zhenghong , Cui Guzhen , Hong Wei
Published: January 2025

The gut microbiota is closely associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Probiotics such as
Clostridium butyricum
(CB) or
Akkermansia muciniphila
(AKK) have the potential to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer (CRC). However, research on the combined therapeutic effects and immunomodulatory mechanisms of CB and AKK in treating IBD or CRC has never been studied. This study evaluates the potential of co-administration of CB and AKK in treating DSS/AOM-induced IBD and colitis-associated CRC. Our results indicate that compared to mono-administration, the co-administration of CB and AKK not only significantly alleviates symptoms such as weight loss, colon shortening, and increased Disease Activity Index in IBD mice but also regulates the gut microbiota composition and effectively suppresses colonic inflammatory responses. In the colitis-associated CRC mice model, a combination of CB and AKK significantly alleviates weight loss and markedly reduces inflammatory infiltration of macrophages and cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) in the colon, thereby regulating anti-tumor immunity and inhibiting the occurrence of inflammation-induced CRC. In addition, we found that the combined probiotic therapy of CB and AKK can enhance the sensitivity of colitis-associated CRC mice to the immune checkpoint inhibitor anti-mouse PD-L1 (aPD-L1), significantly improving the anti-tumor efficacy of immunotherapy and the survival rate of colitis-associated CRC mice. Furthermore, fecal microbiota transplantation therapy showed that transplanting feces from CRC mice treated with the co-administration of CB and AKK into other CRC mice alleviated the tumor loads in the colon and significantly extended their survival rate. Our study suggests that the combined use of two probiotics, CB and AKK, can not only alleviate chronic intestinal inflammation but also inhibit the progression to CRC. This may be a natural and relatively safe method to support the gut microbiota and enhance the host’s immunity against cancer.

IMPORTANCE

Our study suggests that the combined administration of CB and AKK probiotics, as opposed to a single probiotic strain, holds considerable promise in preventing the advancement of IBD to CRC. This synergistic effect is attributed to the ability of this probiotic combination to more effectively modulate the gut microbiota, curb inflammatory reactions, bolster the efficacy of immunotherapeutic approaches, and optimize treatment results via fecal microbiota transplantation.
Supplemental Material: The Neoproterozoic glacial broom
Authors: Kirkland Christopher L. , al. et
Published: January 2025

Methods, Figures S1–S2, and Dataset S1 (Tables 1–5). 
Endothelial characteristics of cardiac stem cell antigen-1 expressing cells and their relevance to right ventricular adaptation
Authors: Kesavan Kirishani , Panchakshari Sheethal , Abdelwahab Haya , Rabelo Elena Stephanie Gomez , Chaudhary Ketul R.
Published: January 2025

A growing body of evidence suggest that the stem cell antigen-1 expressing (Sca-1+) cells in the heart may be the cardiac endothelial stem/progenitor cells. Their endothelial cell (EC) functions, and their role in right ventricle (RV) physiology and pathophysiology of right heart failure (RHF) remains poorly defined. This study investigated EC characteristics of rat cardiac Sca-1+ cells, assessed spatial distribution and studied changes in Sca-1+ cells during RV remodelling in monocrotaline (MCT) model of pulmonary hypertension and RV remodeling. First, flow-cytometry analysis of adult male and female Sprague Dawley (SD) and Fischer CDF rat heart cells was performed, and we observed that the majority of Sca-1+ cells also expressed CD31, an EC marker. Furthermore, Sca-1+ cells showed acetylated low-density lipoprotein (ac-LDL) uptake and lectin binding similar to CD31+ cells from the same heart. The Sca-1+ cells also demonstrated network formation when plated on Matrigel. In the MCT treated rats, we observed increase in RV hypertrophy that correlated with the reduction in the abundance of Sca-1+CD31+ cells in the RV. Together, the cardiac Sca-1+ cells in the heart are endothelial stem/progenitor-like cells. These cells have higher abundance in the RV and may play a role in RV adaptation.
Winter wheat genotype–Fusarium graminearum interactions and mycotoxin accumulation in infected spikes
Authors: McConachie Riley , Serajazari Mitra , Booker Helen
Published: January 2025

Fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat, caused by Fusarium graminearum (Fg), reduces yield and results in mycotoxin accumulation in the grain. Detached spikes from winter wheat varieties were inoculated with two Fg isolates and disease severity was estimated. Mycotoxin content of detached spikes was determined. Significant variety, isolate, and interaction effects were observed ( p < 0.001). FHB severity scores of varieties evaluated in an inoculated Fusarium nursery were correlated with those for detached spikes inoculated with a 3-acetyl deoxynivalenol-producing Fg isolate. Results highlight the complex interactions between Fg isolates and wheat cultivars, indicating the need for further research to better understand these relationships.
Uniqueness of Heteroclinic Solutions in a Class of Autonomous Quasilinear ODE Problems
Authors: Alves Claudianor O. , Isneri Renan J. S. , Montecchiari Piero
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we prove the existence, uniqueness and qualitative properties of heteroclinic solution for a class of autonomous quasilinear ordinary differential equations of the Allen–Cahn type given by [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a double-well potential with minima at [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text] function satisfying some technical assumptions. Our results include the classic case [Formula: see text], which is related to the celebrated [Formula: see text]-Laplacian operator, presenting the explicit solution in this specific scenario. Moreover, we also study the case [Formula: see text], which is directly associated with the prescribed mean curvature operator.
The Price of Interest-Rate Derivatives Based on Uncertain Mean-Reverting Model
Authors: He Binhao
Published: January 2025

The interest rate is a key factor in the financial market. Various widely used interest rate derivatives, such as zero-coupon bond, interest rate ceiling, interest rate floor and currency exchange rate, are based on the interest rate. This paper assumes that the interest rate follows the uncertain mean-reverting differential equation and introduces some formulas for pricing zero-coupon bond, interest rate ceiling and interest rate floor within this model. Additionally, this paper provides numerical examples to show how these pricing formulas can be applied.
Study on the instability characteristics and precursor signals of rockburst in ancient fluvial sedimentary microfacies coal seam
Authors: Zhang Heng , Chen Guofeng , Yang Biao , Wang Xuhong , Liu Guangjian , Chen Guochao , Chen Xi
Published: January 2025

The complex geological structure of a coal seam is one of the important causes of rockburst. This paper investigates the instability process and precursor characteristics of an ancient fluvial sedimentary microfacies coal seam. The results show the following. (1) When the inclination angle is small, the sample experiences fracture and instability with relatively high peak stress. When the inclination angle is large, the sample experiences slip and instability, and high-energy release under low stress condition. (2) Before the instability of the combined samples, the fracture development clearly results in a low total fault area (
A
(t)) value, relatively high and obviously low microseismic activity (
S
) values alternately appear, and the acoustic emission (AE) count and lack of shock (
b
) value fluctuate significantly. (3) The peak strength of the combined samples decreases with increasing inclination angle. The thickness of the coal is large, the strength of the combined samples is small, and the development and expansion of cracks and energy release are relatively weak. When the loading rate is relatively small, the peak AE count and energy release are relatively large. This research not only enriches the theory of deformation failure and dynamic disaster of complex coal seams, but also provides a reference for early warning of rockburst.
Stochastic Block Models for Complex Network Analysis: A Survey
Authors: Liu Xueyan , Song Wenzhuo , Musial Katarzyna , Li Yang , Zhao Xuehua , Yang Bo
Published: January 2025

Complex networks enable to represent and characterize the interactions between entities in various complex systems which widely exist in the real world and usually generate vast amounts of data about all the elements, their behaviors and interactions over time. The studies concentrating on new network analysis approaches and methodologies are vital because of the diversity and ubiquity of complex networks. The stochastic block model (SBM), based on Bayesian theory, is a statistical network model. SBMs are essential tools for analyzing complex networks since SBMs have the advantages of interpretability, expressiveness, flexibility and generalization. Thus, designing diverse SBMs and their learning algorithms for various networks has become an intensively researched topic in network analysis and data mining. In this article, we review, in a comprehensive and in-depth manner, SBMs for different types of networks (i.e., model extensions), existing methods (including parameter estimation and model selection) for learning optimal SBMs for given networks and SBMs combined with deep learning. Finally, we provide an outlook on the future research directions of SBMs.
The Dynamics, Degradation, and Afterlives of Pectins: Influences on Cell Wall Assembly and Structure, Plant Development and Physiology, Agronomy, and Biotechnology
Authors: Anderson Charles T. , Pelloux Jérôme
Published: January 2025

Pectins underpin the assembly, molecular architecture, and physical properties of plant cell walls and through their effects on cell growth and adhesion influence many aspects of plant development. They are some of the most dynamic components of plant cell walls, and pectin remodeling and degradation by pectin-modifying enzymes can drive developmental programming via physical effects on the cell wall and the generation of oligosaccharides that can act as signaling ligands. Here, we introduce pectin structure and synthesis and discuss pectin functions in plants. We highlight recent advances in understanding the structure–function relationships of pectin-modifying enzymes and their products and how these advances point toward new approaches to bridging key knowledge gaps and manipulating pectin dynamics to control plant development. Finally, we discuss how a deeper understanding of pectin dynamics might enable innovations in agronomy and biotechnology, unlocking new benefits from these ubiquitous but complex polysaccharides.
Odyssey in the Wonderland of Chemical Dynamics
Authors: Liu Kopin
Published: January 2025

This is a recollection of my scientific trajectory. When I look back, I consider myself to be very fortunate for being able to do something I love and on topics of my own will. I am not a competitive person and tend to shy away from the limelight. Nonetheless, I survived in my profession and eventually made some modest contributions, which are beyond what I would have expected. We often forget about the human aspect of scientific endeavor. After all, science is done by individuals; humans have emotions and make mistakes. The frustrations of failures, the joys of finding problems and solutions to them, and the passion for fulfilling curiosity are all parts of this endeavor. Throughout the years, many people—mentors, students, postdocs, collaborators, and colleagues—have accompanied me in this exciting and fruitful journey, for which I am deeply grateful and feel very lucky to have them.
Molecularly-Imprinted Polymer-Based Electrochemical Sensor for Indirect Determination of Memantine: Greenness and Whiteness Assessment
Authors: Moaaz Eman M. , Fayed Ahmed S. , Abdel-Moety Ezzat M. , Rezk Mamdouh R.
Published: January 2025

Substantial preference for target analytes was attained by molecularly-imprinted polymers (MIPs). A novel indirect voltammetric technique was developed to provide a useful gate for the analysis of electro-inactive substances through selective interaction with MIP and hence decrease of redox-active probe signal at the electrode’s surface. In this work, a methyldopa-based MIP was fabricated for the selective binding with memantine (MEM), a voltammetry-inactive and widely used drug for Alzheimer’s disease. In-situ electropolymerization of methyldopa monomer was implemented onto a pencil graphite electrode using MEM as a template in phosphate buffer pH 7.0. The monomer-template interaction was evaluated by UV-spectroscopy. The modified surface of the electrode was characterized using scanning electron microscope and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The functionality of the sensor was assessed using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance analysis. The response was linear over a concentration range of 1.0 × 10–12 to 1.0 × 10−10 M with a detection limit down to 1.5 × 10−13 M. Sensor selectivity was studied using the co-formulated drug, donepezil. The MIP-sensor exhibited high sensitivity and proper selectivity, allowing its applicability for the analysis of MEM in combined formulations and in spiked human plasma samples. The overall process was subjected to a greenness and whiteness assessment, confirming its eco-friendliness and sustainability.
Low-Frequency Noise Characterization in UV-Sensitive Indium Tungsten Oxide Thin-Film Photodetectors via Sputtering Deposition
Authors: Yang Chih-Chiang , Chang Tzu Hsuan , Fan Yang-Ho , Huang Yu-Chun , Huang Chien-Sheng
Published: January 2025

This study explores the deposition of indium tungsten oxide (IWO) thin films on glass substrates using sputtering techniques, with the aim of developing photodetectors sensitive to both ultraviolet (UV) and visible light spectra. The films were designed in a metal-semiconductor-metal configuration to enhance electrical conductivity, which is critical for efficient photodetection. This structure achieved a dark-to-light current ratio of 6.23 × 102 and a responsivity of 0.48 A W−1 at a reverse bias of 2 V. Furthermore, when configured as UV photodetectors, the IWO films demonstrated significant improvement, achieving a dark-to-light current ratio of 1.32 × 10⁴ under the same bias conditions. The photodetectors exhibited a detectivity (D*) of 2.18 × 1010 cm·Hz0.5·W−1 and a noise equivalent power (NEP) of 6.88 × 10−10 W. These findings highlight the potential of IWO to improve photodetector performance across different light spectra, reinforcing its viability for cost-effective integration into advanced optoelectronic devices.
Gradient Cross‐Linking Graphene Oxide–Integrated Nanofiltration Polyvinylpyrrolidone Membrane for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Removal
Authors: Alkhattabi Loai , Harun Noorfidza Yub , Zeeshan Muhammad Hamad , Waqas Sharjeel , Hanbazazah Abdulkader
Published: January 2025

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) persist as organic contaminants within diverse water reservoirs, posing significant environmental and health risks. Nanofiltration (NF) membranes have emerged as effective tools for PAHs removal owing to their ability to separate based on size. However, membrane fouling and limited rejection efficiency remain as challenges. This study developed a novel gradient cross‐linking graphene oxide (GO)–integrated polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) NF membrane to enhance PAHs rejection while mitigating fouling issues. The gradient cross‐linking approach and GO integration are aimed at improving the membrane’s rejection performance, stability, and antifouling properties. Fourier transform spectroscopy spectra of the GO‐PVP membrane showed new peaks, indicating the GO linkage. The membrane flux increased with GO concentration due to hydrophilicity; however, membrane flux decreased for the GO‐PVP membrane at a loading of 0.5 wt% due to poor GO distribution. The results exhibited a higher membrane flux of 72.9 ± 2.9 L m−2 h−1, obtained for the GO‐PVP membrane at 0.4 wt% loading. Salt rejection decreased with GO due to the development of large pores; hence, there is always a trade‐off between membrane flux and salt rejection. GO‐PVP membrane presents a promising approach for efficiently removing PAHs from water sources. The developed membrane has the potential to be applied in various water treatment applications, contributing to improved water quality and environmental protection.
Natural Non‐Hermitian Control of High‐Dimensional Rabi Oscillations of Triphoton Using Multidressing Quantization
Authors: Wei Jiaxuan , Yang Qinyue , Wei Jiajia , Zhuang Rui , Zhang Da , Zhang Lei , Li Feng , Cai Yin , Zhang Yanpeng
Published: January 2025

The concept of non‐Hermitian systems, also known as exceptional points (EPs), has recently emerged as a novel approach for designing the response of systems that exchange energy with the external environment. The system behaves as a non‐Hermitian Hamiltonian (NH Hamiltonian), the real part of which is related to the internal dynamics of the system, and the imaginary part reflects the energy exchange between the system and the outside environment. By utilizing double EIT windows and adjusting the intensity of the dressing field, the number and positions of eigenvalues can be modulated to construct quantum entanglement sources for non‐Hermitian systems, thereby laying the foundation for quantum communication and quantum computing. To prepare photon entanglement sources, it is necessary to study the correlation of high‐dimensional quantized energy levels under PT symmetry and symmetry breaking induced by the dressing field; Hamiltonian correlation matrix of the non‐Hermitian system characterizes the relationship between gain and loss, detuning and dephasing rate in the reaction energy‐level system, and the coupling relationship of the dressing field. The energy‐level system itself is non‐Hermitian, and the study of symmetry breaking is conducted by controlling EPs during the level control process through the dressing field, thus eliminating the need for introducing artificial photonic structures. The third‐order non‐Hermitian characteristics of the PT‐NH system reflect the positional relationship between the cascade field and the nested field. When the Rabi frequency (dephase rate) of the dressing field is the dominant factor, the real (imaginary) part of the eigenvalues is split, resulting in in‐phase (out‐of‐phase) constructive (destructive) transformations of the dressing order.
Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 Loss following Treatment with Trastuzumab Deruxtecan in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Gouda Mohamed A. , Gonugunta Amrit , Dumbrava Ecaterina E. , Yap Timothy A. , Rodon Jordi , Piha-Paul Sarina A. , Pohlmann Paula R. , Damodaran Senthil , Murthy Rashmi , Valero Vicente , Mouabbi Jason A. , Tripathy Debasish , Sahin Aysegul A. , Chen Hui , Meric-Bernstam Funda
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) is currently approved for treating metastatic breast cancer (MBC) that is HER2 positive [immunohistochemistry (IHC) score of 3+ or in situ hybridization (ISH) positivity] or HER2-low (IHC score of 1+ or IHC 2+/ISH negative), as well as for HER2-positive gastric cancer, HER2-mutant lung cancer, and HER2-overexpressing solid tumors. Given the increasing utilization of T-DXd, we sought to determine how HER2 status might change following T-DXd therapy.

Experimental Design:

We retrospectively reviewed patients with MBC who received T-DXd at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. We included patients with paired pre- and post-treatment biopsies assessed for HER2 status using IHC.

Results:

We included 41 patients with MBC who received treatment with T-DXd and had paired pre- and post-treatment biopsies assessed for HER2 status using IHC. HER2 loss was observed in 11 patients [32.4% of 34 patients with pre-treatment HER2 expression (1+, 2+, or 3+)] following treatment with T-DXd. In addition to the 11 patients with HER2 loss, another 10 patients (29.4%) had a decrease in HER2 score after treatment with T-DXd.

Conclusions:

HER2 loss and decrease in HER2 expression are common in patients with MBC receiving treatment with T-DXd. Reevaluation of HER2 status following T-DXd treatment should be considered prior to alternate HER2-targeted therapies that require HER2 overexpression for efficacy.