bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Unthinkable Conclusion: Derek Parfit’s Budding Antinatalism
Authors: Häyry Matti
Published: October 2024

Derek Parfit famously opined that causing a person to exist with a life barely worth living can be wrong, although it is not wrong for that person. This conundrum is known as the nonidentity problem. Parfit also held that persons can, in a morally relevant sense, be caused to exist in the distant future by actions that make the agent a necessary condition for a person’s existence. When these views are combined, which he did, and applied explicitly to persons with a life not worth living, which he did not, an interesting conditional conclusion can be drawn. If every family line eventually produces a person with a life not worth living, and if causing that person to exist cannot be justified by the benefits befalling others in the family line, it is always wrong to have children. Parfit did not draw this antinatalist conclusion, but an analysis of his introduction of the nonidentity problem shows that he could have. Since Parfit’s other views on population ethics continue to be discussed with relative respect, it stands to reason that the antinatalist position should be no exception. Right or wrong, it has its legitimate place in considerations concerning the future of reproduction.
Effect of fall- and spring-planted cover crops and residual herbicide on emergence dynamics of glyphosate-resistant kochia (Bassia scoparia)
Authors: Dhanda Sachin , Kumar Vipan
Published: October 2024

Two separate field experiments were conducted during the 2021 to 2022 and 2022 to 2023 growing seasons at Kansas State University Agricultural Research Center near Hays, KS, to understand the emergence dynamics of glyphosate-resistant (GR) kochia [Bassia scoparia (L.) A. J. Scott] as influenced by fall- and spring-planted cover crops (CC) and residual herbicide. Study sites were under winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]–fallow rotation with a natural seedbank of GR B. scoparia. In Experiment 1, fall-planted CC mixture (triticale/winter peas/radish/canola) was planted after wheat harvest and terminated at triticale [×Triticosecale Wittm. ex A. Camus [Secale × Triticum] heading stage (next spring before sorghum planting). In Experiment 2, spring-planted CC mixture (oats/barley/spring peas) was planted in sorghum stubbles and terminated at oats (Avena sativa L.) heading stage. Four treatments were established in each experiment: (1) nontreated control (no CC and no herbicide), (2) chemical fallow (no CC but glyphosate + acetochlor/atrazine or flumioxazin/pyroxasulfone + dicamba were used to control weeds), (3) CC terminated with glyphosate, and (4) CC terminated with glyphosate plus residual herbicide (acetochlor/atrazine for fall-planted CC and flumioxazin/pyroxasulfone for spring-planted CC). Results indicated that fall-planted CC delayed GR B. scoparia emergence by 3 to 5 wk, whereas spring-planted CC delayed emergence by 0 to 2 wk compared with nontreated control. Fall-planted CC terminated with glyphosate plus acetochlor/atrazine reduced the cumulative emergence of GR B. scoparia by 90% to 95% compared with nontreated control across both years. Similarly, spring-planted CC terminated with glyphosate plus flumioxazin/pyroxasulfone reduced the cumulative emergence of GR B. scoparia by 83% to 90% compared with nontreated control. These results suggest that fall- or spring-planted CC in combination with residual herbicide at termination can be utilized for GR B. scoparia suppression. Results from this study will help in developing prediction models for GR B. scoparia emergence under different CC strategies.
Improving Interpolating Accuracy of Weighted Mean Temperature by Using a Novel Lapse Rate Model in Compact VMF1 Product
Authors: Sun Peng , Zhang Kefei , Zhu Dantong , Wan Moufeng , Wang Ren , Wu Suqin
Published: October 2024

In GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) meteorology, the accuracy of precipitable water vapor (PWV) retrieved from the tropospheric delay of GNSS signals is affected by the conversion factor. Compact VMF1 product (known as GGOS Atmosphere data) provides high‐accuracy global grid‐wise weighted mean temperature (Tm) values, which can be utilized to calculate the conversion factor. However, the Tm provided in the compact VMF1 data are solely ground surface values. To enhance the performance of compact VMF1 product, a new Tm lapse rate model for each grid point was developed for the purpose of reducing its surface Tm to the elevation of the GNSS site. Then the reduced Tm values over the neighboring grid points together with horizontal interpolation were used to obtain the interpolated Tm for the GNSS station. The sample data for the development of the new model were the Tm profiles obtained from ERA5 monthly averaged data spanning 2009–2018. To assess the model's performance, global radiosonde data at 504 radiosonde stations spanning 2019–2021 were employed. Results demonstrated that implementing the Tm lapse rate model significantly enhanced the accuracy of interpolating Tm values for GNSS stations with substantial height disparities from adjacent grid points, thereby improving PWV conversion accuracy. This indicates that employing the new Tm lapse rate model to adjust surface Tm data in the compact VMF1 product holds promise for enhancing its utility in GNSS meteorology.
Lipids associated with autophagy: mechanisms and therapeutic targets
Authors: Jarocki Michał , Turek Kacper , Saczko Jolanta , Tarek Mounir , Kulbacka Julita
Published: October 2024

Autophagy is a molecular process essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis, with its impairment or dysregulation linked to the progression of various diseases in mammals. Specific lipids, including phosphoinositides, sphingolipids, and oxysterols, play pivotal roles in inducing and regulating autophagy, highlighting their significance in this intricate process. This review focuses on the critical involvement of these lipids in autophagy and lipophagy, providing a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of their functions. Moreover, we delve into how abnormalities in autophagy, influenced by these lipids, contribute to the pathogenesis of various diseases. These include age-related conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, as well as inflammatory and liver diseases, skeletal muscle pathologies and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This review aims to highlight function of lipids and their potential as therapeutic targets in treating diverse human pathologies by elucidating the specific roles of phosphoinositides, sphingolipids, and oxysterols in autophagy.
A data-driven strategy for phase field nucleation modeling
Authors: Hu Yang , Wang Kai , Spatschek Robert
Published: October 2024

We propose a data-driven strategy for parameter selection in phase field nucleation models using machine learning and apply it to oxide nucleation in Fe-Cr alloys. A grand potential-based phase field model, incorporating Langevin noise, is employed to simulate oxide nucleation and benchmarked against the Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov model. Three independent parameters in the phase field simulations (Langevin noise strength, numerical grid discretization and critical nucleation radius) are identified as essential for accurately modeling the nucleation behavior. These parameters serve as input features for machine learning classification and regression models. The classification model categorizes nucleation behavior into three nucleation density regimes, preventing invalid nucleation attempts in simulations, while the regression model estimates the appropriate Langevin noise strength, significantly reducing the need for time-consuming trial-and-error simulations. This data-driven approach improves the efficiency of parameter selection in phase field models and provides a generalizable method for simulating nucleation-driven microstructural evolution processes in various materials.
Evaluation of adenoviral vector Ad19a encoding RSV-F as novel vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Fuchs Jana , Hübner Julian , Schmidt Anna , Irrgang Pascal , Maier Clara , Vieira Antão Ana , Oltmanns Friederike , Thirion Christian , Lapuente Dennis , Tenbusch Matthias
Published: October 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of severe lower respiratory tract infections in infants and toddlers. Since natural infections do not induce persistent immunity, there is the need of vaccines providing long-term protection. Here, we evaluated a new adenoviral vector (rAd) vaccine based on the rare serotype rAd19a and compared the immunogenicity and efficacy to the highly immunogenic rAd5. Given as an intranasal boost in DNA primed mice, both vectors encoding the F protein provided efficient protection against a subsequent RSV infection. However, intramuscular immunization with rAd19a vectors provoked vaccine-enhanced disease after RSV infection compared to non-vaccinated animals. While mucosal IgA antibodies and tissue-resident memory T-cells in intranasally vaccinated mice rapidly control RSV replication, a strong anamnestic systemic T-cell response in absence of local immunity might be the reason for immune-mediated enhanced disease. Our study highlighted the potential benefits of developing effective mucosal against respiratory pathogens.
ArcaNN: automated enhanced sampling generation of training sets for chemically reactive machine learning interatomic potentials
Authors: David Rolf , de la Puente Miguel , Gomez Axel , Anton Olaia , Stirnemann Guillaume , Laage Damien
Published: October 2024

ArcaNN is a comprehensive framework that employs concurrent learning to generate training datasets for reactive MLIPs in the condensed phase.
Electrochemical one-pot cascade synthesis of thio(seleno)cyanato-substituted thiazolidine-2-imines without external electrolyte
Authors: Yu Xiao , Hao Liqiang , Liu Xian , Jin Shengkui , Li Yangchen , Liu Yiping , Ji Yafei
Published: October 2024

A novel synthetic method has been developed for generating thio(seleno)cyanato-substituted thiazolidine-2-imines via an electrochemical one-pot cascade reaction.
Exploring Knowledge of Aging in Speech-Language Pathologists: A Follow-Up Empirical Study
Authors: Heape Amber B. , Sandifer Bethany , Heape Emily A.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

Almost 40% of certified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are employed in health care facilities where the percentage of aging patients is increasing. Historical research indicates a high level of implicit bias surrounding aging within the profession. The purpose of this study was to examine the current state of knowledge and implicit bias among medically based SLPs.

Method:

An online survey was distributed using a secure platform, and convenience sampling was conducted. Medical SLPs (
N
= 70) completed the Facts on Aging Quiz and questions detailing practice settings, experience, and other demographic information.

Results:

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with confidence intervals and segregated into demographic groups. Overall, the scores indicated less than optimal knowledge and implicit bias among the participants, with an
M
score of 67. Median and mode scores were 68. Analysis of variance between the groups showed no significant differences in ethnicity, work setting, age, experience, education, or percent of aging patients on caseload.

Conclusions:

Compared with seminal research, little has changed in 20 years. This investigation, although relatively small in sample size, highlights the need for increased education and focuses on aging populations.
Managing Functional Biopsychosocial Outcomes Impacted by Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Using Telehealth
Authors: Lin Ting-fen , Linville Deanna , Nese Rhonda N. T. , Seeley John , Shune Samantha E.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The use of telehealth in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has demonstrated benefit in addressing some key treatment barriers (e.g., accessibility of health care, costs, frailty, transportation, mobility, time). This modality may hold similar promise for the management of functional impairments in this population. Telehealth has been explored within head and neck cancer and neurological populations in dysphagia; however, less is known about the use of telehealth for biopsychosocial and eating-related impacts in COPD. The purpose of this tutorial is to describe the application of telehealth to this population, discuss the modality in the context of the medical management of COPD and dysphagia management in other populations, and provide considerations for its use. We then report a case implementation of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga as a telehealth approach in this population and describe preliminary biopsychosocial and eating-related and functional outcomes.

Conclusions:

As grounded in the previous literature and based on the preliminary case implementation findings of a small sample, telehealth for functional biopsychosocial management in the COPD population appears acceptable, appropriate, cost-effective, and feasible. This perspective demonstrates initial proof of concept and advances the diversification of management options that may better address the various complex needs of our clinical populations.
Radio Map Reconstruction With Adaptive Spatial Feature Learning
Authors: Yang Jie , Guo Wenbin
Published: October 2024

Radio map reconstruction is a fundamental problem of great relevance in numerous real‐world applications, such as network planning and fingerprint localization. Sampling the complete radio map is prohibitively costly in practice and difficult to achieve. Such methods for reconstructing radio maps from a subset of measurements are now gaining additional attention. In this paper, we first explore the spatial features of signals on the radio map and formulate the reconstruction problem as an optimization problem with feature penalties. Then, we propose an iteration algorithm with spatial feature learning to reconstruct signals on the radio map, which improves the reconstruction accuracy by using an adaptive feature dictionary. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the viability and performance of our method at last.
Doubly grounded buck‐boost PV grid‐connected inverter without shoot‐through problem
Authors: Yao Zhilei , Zhang Ximing , Shan Changlei
Published: October 2024

Transformerless grid‐connected inverters (GCIs) are universally utilized in the PV system. However, they have the shoot‐through issue and common mode leakage current (CMLC). To address the above‐mentioned issues, a transformerless common‐ground GCI without shoot‐through issue is proposed. The proposed topology has one common ground between the PV array and the grid that eliminates the CMLC. The topology is the combination of two buck‐boost converters, so it has the boost capability. Each buck‐boost converter operates in half‐line period, so the proposed inverter is a single‐stage system. Only two switches operate in high frequency in positive half‐line period and only one switch operates in high frequency in negative half‐line period. Therefore, efficiency of the system can be improved. There is no current flowing through the body diode of the MOSFET. Additionally, the presented inverter has no shoot‐through problem. The operating principle is elaborated. At last, simulation and experimental results of a 250 W proposed inverter validate the theoretical analysis. The maximum efficiency of the system is 96.2%.
Point spread function errors for weak lensing – density cross-correlations
Authors: Zhang Ziwen , Kilbinger Martin , Peters Fabian Hervas , Li Qinxun , Luo Wentao , Baumont Lucie , Cuillandre Jean-Charles , Fabbro Sébastien , Gwyn Stephen , McConnachie Alan , Wittje Anna
Published: October 2024

Aims. Calibrating the point spread function (PSF) is a fundamental part of weak gravitational lensing analyses. Even with corrected galaxy images, imperfect calibrations can introduce biases. We propose an analytical framework for quantifying PSF-induced systematics as diagnostics for cross-correlation measurements of weak lensing with density tracers; for example, galaxy-galaxy lensing. We show how those systematics propagate to physical parameters of the density tracers. Those diagnostics only require a shape catalog of PSF stars and foreground galaxy positions.

Methods. We considered the PSF-induced multiplicative bias, and introduced three second-order statistics as additive biases. We computed both biases for the weak-lensing derived halo mass of spectroscopic foreground galaxy samples; in particular, their effect on the tangential shear and fit halo mass as a function of stellar mass. In addition, we assessed their impact on the recently published black-hole – halo-mass relation for type I active galactic nuclei (AGNs).

Results. Using weak-lensing catalogs from the Ultraviolet Near Infrared Optical Northern Survey (UNIONS) and the Dark Energy Survey (DES), we find the multiplicative biases in the tangential shear to be less than 0.5%. No correlations between additive bias and galaxy properties of the foreground sample are detected. The combined PSF systematics affect low-mass galaxies and small angular scales; halo mass estimates can be biased by up to 18% for a sample of central galaxies in the stellar mass range of 9.0 ≤ log M*/M⊙ < 9.5.

Conclusions. The PSF-induced multiplicative bias is a subdominant contribution to current studies of weak-lensing – density cross-correlations, but might become significant for upcoming stage IV surveys. For samples with a low tangential shear, additive PSF systematics can induce a significant bias on derived properties such as the halo mass.
The effect of water level changes on the density of newly hatched European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus (L.)) larvae in unregulated and regulated lakes
Authors: Väänänen Tuula , Marjomäki Timo J. , Ranta Tomi , Karjalainen Juha
Published: October 2024

The effect of the water levels during the period from spawning to hatching of whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus (L.)) on the density of newly hatched larvae was examined from a 23-year time series. The density of larvae was estimated in four lakes with contrasting water level regulation regimes in Central Finland using depth zone stratified bongo and tube net sampling in 2000–2022 and 2008–2022. In the regulated Tehinselkä, larval density was also modeled as a function of the whitefish spawning stock, vendace stock indices, and water levels. Larger water level maximum drops during winter were observed in three regulated lakes (41–68 cm) than in the unregulated lake (35 cm). The average larval densities were highest in the unregulated Lake Southern Konnevesi and regulated Tehinselkä, with densities >20 individuals ha−1. The regulated lakes Ruotsalainen and Puula had lower average densities, <10 individuals ha−1. Significant synchrony in the inter-annual variation in the density time series was observed between Tehinselkä and S. Konnevesi as well as Tehinselkä and Ruotsalainen. None of studied water level variables were associated with larval density in any lake. Thus, the small-scale regulation in these Finnish lakes did not show any direct effects on the production of whitefish larvae. Our analysis did not provide information on the potential effects of water level regulation on later life. For example, it did not cover the impact on whitefish food resources or the abundance of competitors and predators regulating whitefish growth and mortality in the juvenile stage.
The Role of the Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 (PAI1) in Ovarian Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Mathews Sneha Grace , Krishna R.B. Devi , M. Lavanya , K. Nandini , Murali Sanjana , Agarwal Preet , Rani Elizabeth , F. Andrea Mary
Published: October 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one among most significantly fatal gynecological cancers, with late-stage detection and an inadequate prognosis. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI1) gene anticipates negative outcomes in many different kinds of malignancies. Several research investigations are currently being done to examine the biological role of PAI1 in OC and the possible benefits of targeted pharmacotherapies. The PAI1 gene has been linked to the emergence and development of cancer in the ovary. PAI1, an inhibitor of serine protease, influences the fibrinolysis and extracellular matrix remodeling, both of which are crucial for tumor expansion and metastatic growth. PAI1 levels have been discovered to be subsequently more elevated in malignant ovarian tissues than in usual ovarian tissue, demonstrating a potential connection among PAI1 overexpression and OC development. PAI1 promotes tumor cell proliferation, movement, and an invasion by influencing the urokinase-plasminogen activators and through interactions with cell surface receptors. In addition, PAI1 gene contributes to angiogenesis and apoptotic cell death, which contribute to the more hostile phenotypes of OC. The prognostic and therapeutic consequences of focusing on PAI1 in OC are explored, demonstrating PAI1's potential to be a biomarker and emphasizing for novel treatment approaches. The PAI1 gene possesses several functions in OC, affecting tumor development, an invasion, and metastatic growth. Comprehending the complicated interactions and mechanisms that regulate PAI1 in OC may lead to more efficient evaluation and treatment strategies and ultimately enhance patient outcomes.
The application of optical tweezers in oil-in-water emulsions
Authors: Huang Ju , Zhang Cheng , Liao Junjie , Duan Ming , Liu Shuai
Published: October 2024

Oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions are widely used in industrial production, food science, petrochemicals, and other fields. Quantitative measurement of the interaction between droplets is essential for the in-depth understanding of the stability mechanism of O/W emulsions. Optical tweezers are able to accurately and quantitatively measure the interaction forces between droplets in oil-in-water emulsion systems at the microscopic scale and offer numerous advantages. In this paper, the applications of optical tweezers in oil-in-water emulsion systems are reviewed. Optical tweezer can be used to control the droplet deformation and study the aggregation phenomenon of emulsion droplets. The most important application of optical tweezer for emulsion is to measure the interaction force between emulsion droplets. Some specific examples are given to illustrate the advantages and uniqueness of optical tweezers in measuring droplets interaction forces and the methods to improve the accuracy of interaction force measurement. We summarize the study progress of optical tweezers in measuring the interaction force between droplets in recent years and discuss the challenges and prospects of measuring the interaction force between droplets based on optical tweezers.
Toward understanding lipid reorganization in RNA lipid nanoparticles in acidic environments
Authors: Garaizar Adiran , Díaz-Oviedo David , Zablowsky Nina , Rissanen Sami , Köbberling Johannes , Sun Jiawei , Steiger Christoph , Steigemann Patrick , Mann Florian A. , Meier Katharina
Published: October 2024

The use of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for therapeutic RNA delivery has gained significant interest, particularly highlighted by recent milestones such as the approval of Onpattro and two mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. However, despite substantial advancements in this field, our understanding of the structure and internal organization of RNA-LNPs –and their relationship to efficacy, both in vitro and in vivo– remains limited. In this study, we present a coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) approach that allows for the simulations of full-size LNPs. By analyzing MD-derived structural characteristics in conjunction with cellular experiments, we investigate the effect of critical parameters, such as pH and composition, on LNP structure and potency. Additionally, we examine the mobility and chemical environment within LNPs at a molecular level. Our findings highlight the significant impact that LNP composition and internal molecular mobility can have on key stages of LNP-based intracellular RNA delivery.
Pan-ErbB inhibition impairs cognition via disrupting myelination and aerobic glycolysis in oligodendrocytes
Authors: Hu Xu , Zhu Qingyu , Lou Tianjie , Hu Qianqian , Li Huashun , Xu Yijia , Niu Xiaojie , He Li , Huang Hao , Qiu Mengsheng , Shen Ying , Jia Jie-Min , Tao Yanmei
Published: October 2024

White matter (WM) abnormalities are an emerging feature of schizophrenia, yet the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are largely unknown. Disruption of ErbB signaling, which is essential for peripheral myelination, has been genetically associated with schizophrenia and WM lesions in schizophrenic patients. However, the roles of ErbB signaling in oligodendrocytes remain elusive. Here, we used an in vivo pan-ErbB inhibition strategy and demonstrated the functions of endogenous ErbB receptors in oligodendrocytes. Through analyses of the cellular, histological, biochemical, behavioral, and electrophysiological differences in mice with manipulated ErbB activities in oligodendrocytes at different differentiation stages, we found that ErbB signaling regulates myelination and aerobic glycolysis in oligodendrocytes, and both functions are required for working memory. ErbB inhibition in oligodendrocytes at early differentiation stages induces hypomyelination by suppressing the myelinating capacity of newly formed oligodendrocytes. In contrast, ErbB inhibition in mature oligodendrocytes alters neither myelination nor oligodendrocyte numbers, but accelerates axonal conduction decline under energy stress. Mechanistically, ErbB inhibition attenuates K-Ras activities, leading to the reduced expression of lactate dehydrogenase A that promotes aerobic glycolysis in mature oligodendrocytes. Supplementation of L-lactate restores axonal conduction and working memory capacity that are suppressed by ErbB inhibition in mature oligodendrocytes. These findings emphasize the indispensable roles of ErbB signaling in WM integrity and function and provide insights into the multifaceted contributions of WM abnormalities to cognitive impairment.
Strain learning in protein-based mechanical metamaterials
Authors: Sadaba Naroa , Sanchez-Rexach Eva , Waltmann Curt , Hilburg Shayna L. , Pozzo Lilo D. , Olvera de la Cruz Monica , Sardon Haritz , Meza Lucas R. , Nelson Alshakim
Published: October 2024

Mechanical deformation of polymer networks causes molecular-level motion and bond scission that ultimately lead to material failure. Mitigating this strain-induced loss in mechanical integrity is a significant challenge, especially in the development of active and shape-memory materials. We report the additive manufacturing of mechanical metamaterials made with a protein-based polymer that undergo a unique stiffening and strengthening behavior after shape recovery cycles. We utilize a bovine serum albumin-based polymer and show that cyclic tension and recovery experiments on the neat resin lead to a ~60% increase in the strength and stiffness of the material. This is attributed to the release of stored length in the protein mechanophores during plastic deformation that is preserved after the recovery cycle, thereby leading to a “strain learning” behavior. We perform compression experiments on three-dimensionally printed lattice metamaterials made from this protein-based polymer and find that, in certain lattices, the strain learning effect is not only preserved but amplified, causing up to a 2.5× increase in the stiffness of the recovered metamaterial. These protein–polymer strain learning metamaterials offer a unique platform for materials that can autonomously remodel after being deformed, mimicking the remodeling processes that occur in natural materials.
A receptor kinase senses sterol by coupling with elicitins in auxotrophic
Phytophthora
Authors: Pei Yong , Ji Peiyun , Miao Jinlu , Gu Xinyi , Wang Hui , Zhao Yaning , Song Wen , Guo Zhenjie , Zhou Hao , Shen Danyu , Liu Jinding , Si Jierui , Yan Jianyu , Ren Yingkai , Bao Yazhou , Yin Zhiyuan , Dou Daolong
Published: October 2024

Sterols are vital nutrients and signals for eukaryotic organisms. Mammalian cells are known to sense and respond to sterol status changes to maintain them within strict limits, a process associated with various human diseases. However, this process is not understood in oomycete pathogens, most of which are sterol auxotrophic and must obtain sterols from host plants. Here, we report that
Phytophthora sojae
SSRK1 (sterol-sensing receptor kinase 1) detects host sterols by coupling with elicitins, thereby controlling signaling and sterol absorption. Sterols are recruited by extracellular soluble elicitins, and these complexes then bind to SSRK1 to form trimolecular complexes. These complexes subsequently trigger downstream calcium influx, activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase, and transcriptome reprogramming through the receptor’s kinase activity. Our data demonstrate a unique sterol sensing pathway where elicitins and a transmembrane receptor kinase SSRK1 act as coreceptors for extracellular sterols. These findings also portray a sterol-based war between oomycetes and plants, providing a unique perspective on how a pathogen detects host signals during infection.
Role of molecular damage in crack initiation mechanisms of tough elastomers
Authors: Ju Jianzhu , Sanoja Gabriel E. , Cipelletti Luca , Ciccotti Matteo , Zhu Bangguo , Narita Tetsuharu , Yuen Hui Chung , Creton Costantino
Published: October 2024

Tough soft materials such as multiple network elastomers (MNE) or filled elastomers are typically stretchable and include significant energy dissipation mechanisms that prevent or delay crack growth. Yet most studies and fracture models focus on steady-state propagation and damage is assumed to be decoupled from the local stress and strain fields near the crack tip. We report an in situ spatial-temporally resolved 3D measurement of molecular damage in mechanophore-labeled MNE just before a crack propagates. This technique, complemented by digital image correlation, allows us to compare the spatial distribution of both damage and deformation in single network (SN) elastomers and in MNE. Compared to SN, MNE have a wide-spread damage in front of the crack and, surprisingly, delocalize strain concentration. A continuum model, where damage distribution is fully coupled to the crack tip fields, is proposed to explain these results. Additional measurements of time-dependent molecular damage during fixed grips relaxation in the presence of a crack reveal that the less localized damage distribution delays fracture initiation. The observations and exploratory modeling reveal the dynamic fracture mechanism of MNE, providing guidance for rational design of high-performance tough elastomers.
Effects of oxycodone on placental lineages: Evidence from the transcriptome profile of mouse trophoblast giant cells
Authors: Lyu Zhen , Kinkade Jessica A. , Bivens Nathan J. , Roberts R. Michael , Joshi Trupti , Rosenfeld Cheryl S.
Published: October 2024

Pregnant women are often prescribed or abuse opioid drugs. The placenta is likely the key to understanding how opioids cause adverse pregnancy outcomes. Maternal oxycodone (OXY) exposure of pregnant mice leads to disturbances in the layer of invasive parietal trophoblast giant cells (pTGC) that forms the interface between the placenta and uterus. These cells are analogous to extravillous trophoblasts of the human placenta. They are crucial to coordinating the metabolic needs of the conceptus with those of the mother and are primary participants in the placenta–brain axis. Their large nuclear size, however, has precluded both single-cell (sc) and single-nucleus (sn) RNA-seq analyses beyond embryonic day (E) 8.5. Here, we compared the transcriptomes of placentas from pregnant mice exposed to OXY with unexposed controls at E12.5, with particular emphasis on the pTGC. The nonfluidic Parse snRNA-seq approach permitted characterization of the nuclear transcriptomes of all the major placental cell lineages and their presumed progenitors at E12.5. OXY exposure had a negligible effect on components of the placental labyrinth, including the two syncytial cell layers, but caused transcriptomic changes consistent with metabolic stress throughout the spongiotrophoblast. Most notably, there was loss of the majority of pTGC, whose normal gene expression is consistent with elevated energy demand relating to biosynthesis of multiple secretory products, especially hormones, and endoduplication of DNA. This unusual sensitivity of pTGC presumably puts the pregnancy and future health of the offspring at particular risk to OXY exposure.
A CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening identifies IRF2 as a key driver of OAS3/RNase L-mediated RNA decay during viral infection
Authors: Oh Sunwoo , Santiago Gisselle , Manjunath Lavanya , Li Junyi , Bouin Alexis , Semler Bert L. , Buisson Rémi
Published: October 2024

OAS-RNase L is a double-stranded RNA-induced antiviral pathway triggered in response to diverse viral infections. Upon activation, OAS-RNase L suppresses virus replication by promoting the decay of host and viral RNAs and inducing translational shutdown. However, whether OASs and RNase L are the only factors involved in this pathway remains unclear. Here, we develop CRISPR-Translate, a FACS-based genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening method that uses translation levels as a readout and identifies IRF2 as a key regulator of OAS3. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that IRF2 promotes basal expression of OAS3 in unstressed cells, allowing a rapid activation of RNase L following viral infection. Furthermore, IRF2 works in concert with the interferon response through STAT2 to further enhance OAS3 expression. We propose that IRF2-induced RNase L is critical in enabling cells to mount a rapid antiviral response immediately after viral infection, serving as the initial line of defense. This rapid response provides host cells the necessary time to activate additional antiviral signaling pathways, forming secondary defense waves.
A noncanonical GTPase signaling mechanism controls exit from mitosis in budding yeast
Authors: Zhou Xiaoxue , Weng Shannon Y. , Bell Stephen P. , Amon Angelika
Published: October 2024

In the budding yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
, exit from mitosis is coupled to spindle position to ensure successful genome partitioning between mother and daughter cells. This coupling occurs through a GTPase signaling cascade known as the mitotic exit network (MEN). The MEN senses spindle position via a Ras-like GTPase Tem1 which localizes to the spindle pole bodies (SPBs, yeast equivalent of centrosomes) during anaphase and signals to its effector protein kinase Cdc15. How Tem1 couples the status of spindle position to MEN activation is not fully understood. Here, we show that Cdc15 has a relatively weak preference for Tem1
GTP
and Tem1’s nucleotide state does not change upon MEN activation. Instead, we find that Tem1’s nucleotide cycle establishes a localization-based concentration difference in the cell where only Tem1
GTP
is recruited to the SPB, and spindle position regulates the MEN by controlling Tem1 localization to the SPB. SPB localization of Tem1 primarily functions to promote Tem1–Cdc15 interaction for MEN activation by increasing the effective concentration of Tem1. Consistent with this model, we demonstrate that artificially tethering Tem1 to the SPB or concentrating Tem1 in the cytoplasm with genetically encoded multimeric nanoparticles could bypass the requirement of Tem1
GTP
and correct spindle position for MEN activation. This localization/concentration-based GTPase signaling mechanism for Tem1 differs from the canonical Ras-like GTPase signaling paradigm and is likely relevant to other localization-based signaling scenarios.
Adaptive CVgen: Leveraging reinforcement learning for advanced sampling in protein folding and chemical reactions
Authors: Shen Wenhui , Wan Kaiwei , Li Dechang , Gao Huajian , Shi Xinghua
Published: October 2024

Enhanced sampling techniques have traditionally encountered two significant challenges: identifying suitable reaction coordinates and addressing the exploration–exploitation dilemma, particularly the difficulty of escaping local energy minima. Here, we introduce Adaptive CVgen, a universal adaptive sampling framework designed to tackle these issues. Our approach utilizes a set of collective variables (CVs) to comprehensively cover the system’s potential evolutionary phase space, generating diverse reaction coordinates to address the first challenge. Moreover, we integrate reinforcement learning strategies to dynamically adjust the generated reaction coordinates, thereby effectively balancing the exploration-exploitation dilemma. We apply this framework to sample the conformational space of six proteins transitioning from completely disordered states to folded states, as well as to model the chemical synthesis process of C60, achieving conformations that perfectly match the standard C60 structure. The results demonstrate Adaptive CVgen’s effectiveness in exploring new conformations and escaping local minima, achieving both sampling efficiency and exploration accuracy. This framework holds potential for extending to various related challenges, including protein folding dynamics, drug targeting, and complex chemical reactions, thereby opening promising avenues for application in these fields.
NKp46
+
ILC3s promote early neutrophil defense against
Clostridioides difficile
infection through GM-CSF secretion
Authors: Fachi José L. , Oliveira Sarah de , Gilfillan Susan , Antonova Alina Ulezko , Hou JinChao , Vinolo Marco A. R. , Colonna Marco
Published: October 2024

Clostridioides difficile
infection (CDI) is a common cause of antibiotic-associated colitis.
C. difficile
proliferates and produces toxins that damage the colonic epithelium, leading to symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to severe pseudomembranous colitis. The host’s innate response to CDI occurs in two phases: an early phase in which neutrophils reduce the bacterial load and a late phase involving repair mechanisms to restore epithelial integrity. Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) are crucial in protecting the gut from CDI. Previous studies have shown that ILC3-derived IL-22 is essential in the late phase of CDI for epithelial repair and maintaining an intestinal microbiota that competes with
C. difficile
, preventing its expansion. Our study finds that ILC3s also protect during the early stages of CDI by sustaining neutrophils through GM-CSF. Less neutrophil production, accumulation, and activation was evident in ILC3-deficient mice than in wild-type (WT) mice, which led to exacerbated symptoms, impaired pathogen clearance, a compromised epithelial barrier, and increased mortality. The adoptive transfer of ILC3s into ILC3-deficient mice restored neutrophil responses and improved disease outcomes. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that GM-CSF production by ILC3s is crucial for neutrophil production and effective resistance during CDI. Using mice lacking NKp46
+
ILC3s, we found that this subset significantly contributes to GM-CSF production in CDI. These findings highlight the critical role of the ILC3-neutrophil connection in early innate responses to CDI. Enhancing ILC3 production of GM-CSF could be a promising strategy for improving host defense against CDI and other enteric infections.
Effect of annealing conditions on resistive switching in hafnium oxide-based MIM devices for low-power RRAM
Authors: Mir Kifayat H , Garg T
Published: October 2024

This work presents resistive switching (RS) behaviour in HfO2-based low-power resistive random-access memory (RRAM) devices. A metal-insulator-metal (MIM) structure (Au/HfO2/Pt) was fabricated by sandwiching a thin insulating layer of HfO2 between Pt and Au electrodes. HfO2 films deposited by RF sputtering at room temperature were rapid thermally annealed in N2 ambient at 400 °C and 500 °C. Grazing angle x-ray diffraction (GIXRD), Field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed to analyse the phase, crystal structure, morphology, surface roughness and chemical composition of the HfO2 films. The bipolar RS could be observed in both as-deposited and annealed HfO2 film-based devices from I–V characteristics measured using a source meter. We have investigated the effect of annealing temperature and annealing ambient on the phase formation of HfO2 as well as the RS characteristics and compared with as-deposited film-based device. Annealed HfO2 film-based devices exhibited improved electrical characteristics, including stable and repeatable RS at significantly lower switching voltages (<1 V) which indicates low power consumption in these devices. The relatively lower processing temperature of the HfO2 films and that too in the films deposited by physical vapor deposition (PVD) technique-RF magnetron sputtering makes this study significantly useful for resistive switching based non-volatile memories.
Mean first passage times and Eyring–Kramers formula for fluctuating hydrodynamics
Authors: Liu Jingbang , Sprittles James E , Grafke Tobias
Published: October 2024

Thermally activated phenomena in physics and chemistry, such as conformational changes in biomolecules, liquid film rupture, or ferromagnetic field reversal, are often associated with exponentially long transition times described by Arrhenius’ law. The associated subexponential prefactor, given by the Eyring–Kramers formula, has recently been rigorously derived for systems in detailed balance, resulting in a sharp limiting estimate for transition times and reaction rates. Unfortunately, this formula does not trivially apply to systems with conserved quantities, which are ubiquitous in the sciences: The associated zeromodes lead to divergences in the prefactor. We demonstrate how a generalised formula can be derived, and show its applicability to a wide range of systems, including stochastic partial differential equations from fluctuating hydrodynamics, with applications in rupture of nanofilm coatings and social segregation in socioeconomics.
RSDM: Research of Rotation and Small Object Detection Models for Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Yang Panpan , Hui Yan , Hu Xiuhua , Li Wang
Published: October 2024

Instance objects captured in aerial imagery display a range of orientations and exhibit significant scaling differences in their dimensions. Recent researches mainly address the above problems in terms of label assignment strategies and extended backbone spatial receptive fields, however, the former may still introduce lower quality samples, while the latter usually introduces considerable background noise. In this paper, the proposed Multiscale Convolutional Kernels Combined with Bi-Level Routing Attention for backbone Feature Extraction Network (MKBANet) employs multi-scale convolutional kernels to extract feature information at different scales, capture local context information, and combine with a Bi-Level Routing Attention (BRA) to capture remote context information and reduce computational complexity. In addition, an adaptive constrained oriented point set strategy (ACOPSS) is proposed. The adaptive point set constraint strategy is introduced in training, and then the quality metric function is utilized to select the top k high-quality directed point set samples in training, and finally the outliers are penalized. 81.23% mAP on DOTA dataset, the efficacy of the introduced approach is demonstrated.
Optimal Power Flow Calculation Based on Improved Crossover Algorithm
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Chen Linhao , Cheng Lun , Gao Zeming
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the optimization problem of power flow distribution in power system, this paper puts forward a method for calculating the optimal power flow of power network based on the improved crisscross algorithm. The fast convergence crisscross optimization algorithm (FCSO) is based on the traditional crisscross optimization algorithm (CSO) to improve the efficiency and accuracy of solving the Optimal Power Flow, OPF) problem. Based on the original double crossover operator, the improved algorithm puts forward a brand-new operator-central crossover operator, which alternates with transverse crossover operator according to certain rules, In order to improve the quality of single search and accelerate convergence, each individual in the population performs crossover operation with the current optimal individual in turn, and then performs competition operator to selectively approach the current global optimal individual. Finally, combined with experimental verification, the optimal power flow calculation of reactive power optimization based on FSCO has obvious practical effects in improving network voltage quality and reducing line loss, The average voltage increase ratio of 220kV bus and 110kV bus is 0.676% and 0.855% respectively, and the loss reduction rate reaches 3.51%, Compared with CSO, the convergence and calculation speed of FSCO proposed in this paper is faster, the convergence curve is smoother, and the average time consumption is increased to 59.53% compared with CSO, In the case of obtaining the same precision solution, the optimization time is obviously shortened, the timeliness of the optimal solution in regulation operation is effectively improved, and the problem of reactive power optimization in power system can be well solved.
Low-Temperature Drift Bandgap Reference Based on Exponential Compensation Design
Authors: Yin Youwei , Yang Xu , Chen Shanshan , Shi Enxiu
Published: October 2024

In analogue and mixed-signal systems, a stable and accurate reference voltage source is essential to ensure system performance. In this paper, a high-precision bandgap reference (BGR) with a high power supply ripple rejection ratio (PSRR) and lowtemperature drift is proposed, which mainly consists of a core circuit, an exponential temperature compensation circuit, a PSRR enhancement circuit and a start-up circuit. The PSRR is improved by using a PSRR enhancement circuit and a low-pass filter. An exponential compensation circuit is used to reduce the temperature drift coefficient of the bandgap reference. Based on a 0.18 μm BCD process for design and simulation, the output reference voltage is 1.203 V with a temperature drift coefficient of 2.635 ppm/°C over the temperature range of −40°C to 125°C. The PSRR is −144.4 dB at a frequency of 10 Hz, and −43.8 dB at a frequency of 1 MHz, and the layout area is 316 μm × 156 μm.
Analysis of Cracking Causes of A Vibrating Screen Excited Beam
Authors: Cong Shen , Gang Yongheng , Zhang Tiansheng , Yan Xiaofeng , Han Dong
Published: October 2024

It was found that cracking occurred at the exciting beam of the vibrating screen produced by a mechanical equipment manufacturing Co., Ltd. In order to determine the reason for the cracking of the vibrating screen, the cracked vibrating screen samples were tested by appearance, physical and chemical properties, metallographic analysis, scanning electron microscopy(SEM) and energy spectrum analysis. The test analysis results show that the chemical composition analysis, tensile and flattening test results of the vibrating screen meet the requirements of GB/T 8163-2008 standard, the fillet weld at the vibrating screen exciting beam is not bevelled according to the requirements of the production design drawings. The main reason for the cracking of the vibrating screen is that the fillet weld cracking at the vibrating screen exciting beam originates from the welding defects in the weld, which accelerates the further expansion of the crack under the action of external vibration load, and finally leads to the complete cracking of the exciting beam weld.