bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the Maintenance Energy Requirements of Beef Cattle and Lambs
Authors: Steen R.W.J. , Dawson L.E.R. , Lavery N. , Kirkpatrick D.E. , Johnston S.D.
Published: November 2021

The maintenance energy requirement of an animal can be defined as the daily metabolisable energy (ME) intake at which it is in zero energy balance. Maintenance energy requirements can be estimated either by measuring fasting metabolism or from a regression relationship between ME intake and energy retention for a number of animals given a range of ME intakes. However maintenance energy requirements may vary according to the composition of the diet, as higher intakes of high-fibre diets have promoted greater rates of gut metabolism than lower intakes of low-fibre diets. In the present study maintenance energy requirements of beef cattle and lambs have been estimated by regressions between ME intake and energy retention using data from a series of studies involving diets based on grass silage or fresh grass and concentrates.
Dependence of kf and maintenance estimates on the choice of regression model: Effect of measurement errors in metabolisable energy intake
Authors: Dhanoa M.S. , Sanderson R. , France J.
Published: November 2021

Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression will give negatively biased estimates of slope if the x-variable is subject to measurement errors. In energy balance regression, metabolisable energy intake (MEI) is neither under precise control nor free from measurement errors. In order to improve the accuracy of prediction of energy requirements, it is necessary to recognise the effect of this bias when deriving estimates of maintenance (M) energy requirements and the efficiency of utilisation of energy for growth (kf).
Sensitivity of mammary secretory cell turnover to protein restriction and re-alimentation during early lactation
Authors: Goodwill M.G. , Jessop N.S. , Oldham J.D.
Published: November 2021

Milk production depends on both the number and activity of secretory cells within the mammary gland. Our earlier work showed the sensitivity of lactational performance to changes in diet during lactation (Goodwill et al, 1996). This study investigated the influence of protein undernutrition and re-alimentation on secretory cell proliferation and death in the mammary gland of rats during early lactation.
The effect of inclusion of whole crop wheat on the apparent digestibility, duodenal flow and small intestinal availability of different phosphorus fractions
Authors: Abbas M. , Beever D.E. , Sutton J.D.
Published: November 2021

The composition of ruminant feeds may significantly influence the availability of phosphorus by the animal and the subsequent excretion of P to the environment. This study which was undertaken to examine the utilisation of P as part of a larger study designed to establish opportunities for reducing P excretion in lactating dairy cows, offered different forage based diets.
Effect of level of supplementation, milking and restricted suckling patterns on milk yield, milk composition and cow and calf performance in Zebu cross cattle
Authors: Sandoval-Castro C. A. , Anderson S. , Leaver J. D.
Published: November 2021

Restricted suckling and milking patterns can alter saleable milk yield and composition in dual-purpose systems (Sandoval and Leaver, 1995). However, nutrition may influence the response achieved under different management systems. An experiment was carried out to investigate the relationship between nutrition and restricted suckling and milking patterns on milk yield, milk composition and calf growth. The experiment was carried out under tropical conditions in S.E. Mexico.
Trait selection and its importance in the genetic improvement of fertility in dairy cattle
Authors: Woolliams J.A.
Published: November 2021

The genetic improvement of fertility in post-partum dairy cows is hampered by its age-limited and sex-limited expression since it can only be measured on adults and in the female. However improvement is further hampered by the low heritability of the traits that are commonly used as selection criteria (typically estimated ≤0.05), such as time to first insemination (T1), conception to first service (P1), number of inseminations per conception (NI) and days open (DO). Thus despite its undoubted economic importance in dairy cattle management, especially if the scheme is tied to an annual cycle, fertility does not receive a large weight in any aggregate selection index, since the weight in the index depends not only upon the economic importance but also upon how well genetic merit can be identified. Nevertheless significant opportunities may exist to improve fertility providing the appropriate traits are measured and recent evidence (Darwash et al. 1997) suggests that traits such as the interval to commencement of luteal activity postpartum (CLA) may have moderate heritability (0.21, s.e. 0.07) and be related to fertility (Whitmore et al. 1974). The present study was therefore undertaken with the objective of examining whether such a finding in the heritability of CLA is consistent with the published evidence on the low heritabilities of commonly measured criteria of fertility.
Responses to supplementary feed blocks at mating with May lambing ewes
Authors: Vipond J.E , Marsh S.P.
Published: November 2021

May lambing is attracting significant interest as a low input production method on UK farms but one major constraint to its uptake is a reduction in lamb output of around 20%. This is likely to be associated with adverse nutritional effects at grazing in December when nutrient intake is reduced by low sward quality and availability and weather effects. Supplementary feeding using feed blocks offers a method of improving nutrient intake which has been effective at improving reproductive performance in spring lambing hill flocks (Marsh and McCracken 1995).
Effect of Cosecure® on the fertility and trace element status of dairy cattle
Authors: Moeini M.M. , Mackenzie A.M. , Telfer S.B.
Published: November 2021

Nutritional deficiencies can have profound effects on the fertility and economic viability of dairy cattle. Phillippo et al. (1987) reported that molybdenum in the diet reduced the copper status of cattle and also delayed the onset of puberty, decreased the conception rate and caused anoestrus in cattle. A trial was set up at the University of Leeds farm to test the effect of supplementation with a soluble-glass bolus containing copper, cobalt and selenium on the reproductive performance of cattle.
Diet composition of guanacos (Lama guanicoe) and sheep grazing an upland grassland community
Authors: Fraser M.D. , Baker D.H.
Published: November 2021

Despite interest in the potential for fine fibre production from South American camelids in general and guanacos (Lama guanicoe) in particular there is little information currently available which would be relevant to their integration into UK livestock production systems. Without an understanding of their grazing behaviour on UK swards it is impossible to develop effective grazing management systems. This experiment was set up to compare the diet composition of guanacos and sheep when grazing a comparatively heterogeneous indigenous grassland community.
Plasma biochemical values in the guanaco (Lama guanicoe) compared with the sheep
Authors: Fraser M.D. , Moorby J.M. , Baker D.H. , Tweed J.K.S.
Published: November 2021

The use of metabolic profiles in livestock species is a well established technique for monitoring physiological changes, and determining the health status of individual animals. While reference ranges for serum biochemical values in llamas (Lama glama) (Lassen et al, 1986; Fowler and Zinkl, 1989) and alpacas (Lama pacos) (Simons, Waldron and Hennessy, 1993) have been published, equivalent data for guanacos (Lama guanicoe) are negligible. None of the studies which report values for metabolites in the blood of South American camelids have included a direct comparison with conventional livestock species. The aim of this study was to establish baseline ranges for metabolites in the blood of healthy guanacos, and to compare these with equivalent data for sheep.
The role of biotin in the pre-ruminant and immediately post-ruminant goat
Authors: Tahmasbi A.M , Galbraith H. , Scaife J.R.
Published: November 2021

Biotin, a water soluble B vitamin, is essential for post- absorptive metabolism in animals. A deficiency of the vitamin is frequently associated with lesions of the skin and poor hair growth. Biotin may be supplied from the diet or by microorganisms in the digestive tract. The importance of dietary supply in pre-ruminant animals and the contribution of microorganisms from the rumen and elsewhere in the digestive tract following rumen development has not been adequately characterised.
The effect of IGF-I on the growth of secondary hair follicles of the Cashmere goat in vitro
Authors: Galbraith H. , Sims D. , Hazlerigg D.
Published: November 2021

Factors regulating the growth of Cashmere fibre and the hair follicle cycle are poorly understood. Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) or insulin at higher concentrations, have been shown to stimulate in vitro growth of human hair follicles (Philpott et al, 1994). The role of such mitogens in the production of cashmere fibre by the Cashmere goat has not been previously investigated. The objective the study reported here was to investigate the growth of hair follicles in the absence and presence of insulin or IGF-I using our established in vitro technique.
A comparison of hay and silage with concentrates for twin bearing ewes
Authors: Carty J.D. , Quinn P.J. , O'Doherty J.V. , Callan J.J. , Flynn B. , Muwalla M.M. , Crosby T.F.
Published: November 2021

In Ireland, hay has been the traditional fodder offered to sheep during the winter period but the increasing tendency to house ewes before lambing has led to a substantial increase in the use of silage for this purpose. By-products are increasingly used as supplements to these forages, with little relative information available on their value. The objective of this experiment was to compare the effects of feeding grass silage and hay when supplemented with either barley, molassed sugar beet pulp or citrus pulp based concentrates to ewes in late pregnancy on feed intake, ewe weight and body condition changes, gestation length, litter birth weight and colostrum yield.
Age at lambing in the autumn affects subsequent ovulation rate and duration of ovarian cyclicity in crossbred ewes
Authors: King Margaret E. , Mitchell Linda M. , Ranilla Maria J , Gebbie Fiona E , Robinson J J
Published: November 2021

The breeding season of mature Mule (Bluefaced Leicester X Scottish Blackface) ewes at 57Â°N extends from September to April (King et al, 1995). Previous studies have shown that ewe lambs which become reproductively active in their first year of life have a shorter breeding season than mature ewes with both fewer and less regular oestrous cycles (Dyrmundsson, 1978a). The aim of the present study was to determine (i) whether ewes lambing in the autumn (i.e. during their natural mating season) would subsequently experience oestrous cycles and (ii) whether age has an effect on the pattern and duration of cyclicity and on ovulation rate.
Effect of particle size on in vitro fermentation of silages differing in dry matter content
Authors: Sanderson R. , Lister S.J. , Sargeant A. , Dhanoa M.S.
Published: November 2021

The objectives of this study were a) to examine the effect of particle size and silage dry matter (DM) content on the rate and pattern of fermentation of fresh silages in vitro as an aid to modelling the in vivo situation and b) to compare the rate and pattern of fermentation of fresh silage samples with those obtained for freeze-dried material.
Effects of dietary asynchrony on rumen function studied using rumen simulation continuous culture
Authors: Lee H.J. , Kim E.J. , Maeng W.J. , Cockburn J.E. , Scollan N.D.
Published: November 2021

Synchronisation between the rates of energy and nitrogen supply to the rumen microbes is considered important in terms of maximising the amount and efficiency of rumen microbial protein synthesis (Chamberlain and Choung, 1995). As part of a research programme examining the effects of diets which have been formulated to be asynchronous or synchronous with respect to the potential hourly supply of energy and nitrogen to the microbial fraction on gastro-intestinal tract metabolism, this study reports on the effects of these diets on rumen function, assessed in vitro, using Rumen Simulated Continuous Culture (RSCC).
Diurnal variation in the composition of duodenal digesta
Authors: Lister S.J. , Sanderson R. , Sargeant A.
Published: November 2021

The size of biological samples is often, by necessity, small and precludes a full and detailed chemical analysis of the material. Near infrared spectra are comprehensive records of the chemical structure and content of a substrate and are thus a rich source of information. To investigate diurnal changes in the chemical composition of duodenal digesta, NIR spectra and difference spectra were used to examine samples collected over a 24h period.
The East London Classics Summer School
Authors: Merali-Smith Sarah , Nongbri Alicia
Published: November 2021

We are two experienced teachers looking to make a small contribution to the Classics community.
Long‐Term Changes in Runoff Generation Mechanisms for Two Proglacial Areas in the Swiss Alps I: Overland Flow
Authors: Maier Fabian , van Meerveld Ilja
Published: November 2021

In many areas of the world, the surface of the earth is changing rapidly. This can affect the partitioning of precipitation into overland flow (OF) and infiltration. OF can reach the stream quickly and thus strongly influences the streamflow response to precipitation. It can also cause surface erosion. However, our knowledge of the changes in OF responses during landscape evolution is still limited. To investigate how hillslope aging effects OF, we studied three plots on four different aged moraines (several decades to ∼13.5 thousand years old) at a silicate and carbonate proglacial area in the Swiss Alps. We used sprinkling experiments to determine OF characteristics (such as the runoff ratio and timing) and used tracers (δ2H and NaCl) to identify the mixing of rainfall and soil water. Sediment concentrations and turbidity measurements provided an estimate of OF‐driven soil erosion rates. The OF ratios were largest (42%) for the oldest moraines because the clay‐rich layer at 20–40 cm below the surface caused saturated OF. However, OF occurred more frequently on the youngest moraines due to the high stone cover. Soil and vegetation development increase the soil water retention capacity and the pre‐event water fractions in OF for the old moraines, but decreased the suspended sediment yield. The results show that OF characteristics and sediment transport change markedly during landscape evolution. This needs to be taken into account when simulating runoff and erosion responses for rapidly changing Alpine areas, and can—together with the outcomes for subsurface flow (see companion paper Maier et al., 2021, https://doi.org/10.1029/2021WR030223)—be used to improve landscape evolution models.
Consistency of noncognitive skills and their relation to educational outcomes in a UK cohort
Authors: Morris Tim T. , Davey Smith George , van den Berg Gerard , Davies Neil M.
Published: November 2021

Noncognitive skills have been shown to associate with a range of health and socioeconomic outcomes. Many studies have relied on cross sectional data and have been unable to assess the longitudinal consistency of noncognitive skill measures. Using data from a UK birth cohort, we investigated a range of noncognitive skills: behavioural problems, social skills, communication, self-esteem, persistence, locus of control, empathy, impulsivity and personality. We assessed their consistency over a 17-year period throughout childhood and adolescence (age 6 months to 18 years), their genomic architecture, and their associations with socioeconomic outcomes. We found high longitudinal measurement consistency for behavioural and communication skills, but low consistency for other noncognitive skills, suggesting a high noise to signal ratio. We observed consistent non-zero heritability estimates and genetic correlations for only behavioural difficulties. Using aggregate measures of each skill over time, we found evidence of phenotypic correlations and heritability ($$h_{SNP}^2$$

h

S
N
P

2

 = 0.1–0.2) for behaviour, communication, self-esteem and locus of control. Associations between noncognitive skills and educational outcomes were observed for skills measured in mid to late childhood but these were at most a third of the size of IQ-education associations. These results suggest that measures designed to capture noncognitive skills may be subject to considerable response heterogeneity or measurement error. Aggregate measures that leverage repeat responses from longitudinal data may offer researchers more reliable measures that better identify underlying noncognitive skills than cross sectional measures.
REGγ regulates circadian clock by modulating BMAL1 protein stability
Authors: Kubra Syeda , Zhang Haiyang , Si Youwen , Gao Xiao , Wang Tianzhen , Pan Linian , Li Lei , Zhong Nanzhe , Fu Junjiang , Zhang Bianhong , Li Xiaotao
Published: November 2021

Endogenous clocks generate rhythms in gene expression, which facilitates the organisms to cope through periodic environmental variations in accordance with 24-h light/dark time. A core question that needs to be elucidated is how such rhythms proliferate throughout the cells and regulate the dynamic physiology. In this study, we demonstrate the role of REGγ as a new regulator of circadian clock in mice, primary MEF, and SY5Y cells. Assessment of circadian conduct reveals a difference in circadian period, wheel mode, and the ability to acclimate the external light stimulus between WT and KO littermates. Compared to WT mice, REGγ KO mice attain the phase delay behavior upon light shock at early night. During the variation of 12/12 h light/dark (LD) exposure, levels of Per1, Per2, Cry1, Clock, Bmal1, and Rorα circadian genes in suprachiasmatic nucleus are significantly higher in REGγ KO than in WT mice, concomitant with remarkable changes in BMAL1 and PER2 proteins. In cultured cells depleted of REGγ, serum shock induces early response of the circadian genes Per1 and Per2 with the cyclic rhythm maintained. Mechanistic study indicates that REGγ directly degrades BMAL1 by the non-canonical proteasome pathway independent of ATP and ubiquitin. Silencing BMAL1 abrogates the changes in circadian genes in REGγ-deficient cells. However, inhibition of GSK-3β, a known promoter for degradation of BMAL1, exacerbates the action of REGγ depletion. In conclusion, our findings define REGγ as a new factor, which functions as a rheostat of circadian rhythms to mitigate the levels of Per1 and Per2 via proteasome-dependent degradation of BMAL1.
Selection for constrained peptides that bind to a single target protein
Authors: King Andrew M. , Anderson Daniel A. , Glassey Emerson , Segall-Shapiro Thomas H. , Zhang Zhengan , Niquille David L. , Embree Amanda C. , Pratt Katelin , Williams Thomas L. , Gordon D. Benjamin , Voigt Christopher A.
Published: November 2021

Peptide secondary metabolites are common in nature and have diverse pharmacologically-relevant functions, from antibiotics to cross-kingdom signaling. Here, we present a method to design large libraries of modified peptides in Escherichia coli and screen them in vivo to identify those that bind to a single target-of-interest. Constrained peptide scaffolds were produced using modified enzymes gleaned from microbial RiPP (ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide) pathways and diversified to build large libraries. The binding of a RiPP to a protein target leads to the intein-catalyzed release of an RNA polymerase σ factor, which drives the expression of selectable markers. As a proof-of-concept, a selection was performed for binding to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike receptor binding domain. A 1625 Da constrained peptide (AMK-1057) was found that binds with similar affinity (990 ± 5 nM) as an ACE2-derived peptide. This demonstrates a generalizable method to identify constrained peptides that adhere to a single protein target, as a step towards “molecular glues” for therapeutics and diagnostics.
A giant NLR gene confers broad-spectrum resistance to Phytophthora sojae in soybean
Authors: Wang Weidong , Chen Liyang , Fengler Kevin , Bolar Joy , Llaca Victor , Wang Xutong , Clark Chancelor B. , Fleury Tomara J. , Myrvold Jon , Oneal David , van Dyk Maria Magdalena , Hudson Ashley , Munkvold Jesse , Baumgarten Andy , Thompson Jeff , Cai Guohong , Crasta Oswald , Aggarwal Rajat , Ma Jianxin
Published: November 2021

Phytophthora root and stem rot caused by P. sojae is a destructive soybean soil-borne disease found worldwide. Discovery of genes conferring broad-spectrum resistance to the pathogen is a need to prevent the outbreak of the disease. Here, we show that soybean Rps11 is a 27.7-kb nucleotide-binding site-leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR or NLR) gene conferring broad-spectrum resistance to the pathogen. Rps11 is located in a genomic region harboring a cluster of large NLR genes of a single origin in soybean, and is derived from rounds of unequal recombination. Such events result in promoter fusion and LRR expansion that may contribute to the broad resistance spectrum. The NLR gene cluster exhibits drastic structural diversification among phylogenetically representative varieties, including gene copy number variation ranging from five to 23 copies, and absence of allelic copies of Rps11 in any of the non-Rps11-donor varieties examined, exemplifying innovative evolution of NLR genes and NLR gene clusters.
Global roll-out of comprehensive policy measures may aid in bridging emissions gap
Authors: van Soest Heleen L. , Aleluia Reis Lara , Baptista Luiz Bernardo , Bertram Christoph , Després Jacques , Drouet Laurent , den Elzen Michel , Fragkos Panagiotis , Fricko Oliver , Fujimori Shinichiro , Grant Neil , Harmsen Mathijs , Iyer Gokul , Keramidas Kimon , Köberle Alexandre C. , Kriegler Elmar , Malik Aman , Mittal Shivika , Oshiro Ken , Riahi Keywan , Roelfsema Mark , van Ruijven Bas , Schaeffer Roberto , Silva Herran Diego , Tavoni Massimo , Unlu Gamze , Vandyck Toon , van Vuuren Detlef P.
Published: November 2021

Closing the emissions gap between Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the global emissions levels needed to achieve the Paris Agreement’s climate goals will require a comprehensive package of policy measures. National and sectoral policies can help fill the gap, but success stories in one country cannot be automatically replicated in other countries. They need to be adapted to the local context. Here, we develop a new Bridge scenario based on nationally relevant, short-term measures informed by interactions with country experts. These good practice policies are rolled out globally between now and 2030 and combined with carbon pricing thereafter. We implement this scenario with an ensemble of global integrated assessment models. We show that the Bridge scenario closes two-thirds of the emissions gap between NDC and 2 °C scenarios by 2030 and enables a pathway in line with the 2 °C goal when combined with the necessary long-term changes, i.e. more comprehensive pricing measures after 2030. The Bridge scenario leads to a scale-up of renewable energy (reaching 52%–88% of global electricity supply by 2050), electrification of end-uses, efficiency improvements in energy demand sectors, and enhanced afforestation and reforestation. Our analysis suggests that early action via good-practice policies is less costly than a delay in global climate cooperation.
Crosstalk between CST and RPA regulates RAD51 activity during replication stress
Authors: Lei Kai-Hang , Yang Han-Lin , Chang Hao-Yen , Yeh Hsin-Yi , Nguyen Dinh Duc , Lee Tzu-Yu , Lyu Xinxing , Chastain Megan , Chai Weihang , Li Hung-Wen , Chi Peter
Published: November 2021

Replication stress causes replication fork stalling, resulting in an accumulation of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). Replication protein A (RPA) and CTC1-STN1-TEN1 (CST) complex bind ssDNA and are found at stalled forks, where they regulate RAD51 recruitment and foci formation in vivo. Here, we investigate crosstalk between RPA, CST, and RAD51. We show that CST and RPA localize in close proximity in cells. Although CST stably binds to ssDNA with a high affinity at low ionic strength, the interaction becomes more dynamic and enables facilitated dissociation at high ionic strength. CST can coexist with RPA on the same ssDNA and target RAD51 to RPA-coated ssDNA. Notably, whereas RPA-coated ssDNA inhibits RAD51 activity, RAD51 can assemble a functional filament and exhibit strand-exchange activity on CST-coated ssDNA at high ionic strength. Our findings provide mechanistic insights into how CST targets and tethers RAD51 to RPA-coated ssDNA in response to replication stress.
Progenitor translatome changes coordinated by Tsc1 increase perception of Wnt signals to end nephrogenesis
Authors: Jarmas Alison E. , Brunskill Eric W. , Chaturvedi Praneet , Salomonis Nathan , Kopan Raphael
Published: November 2021

Mammalian nephron endowment is determined by the coordinated cessation of nephrogenesis in independent niches. Here we report that translatome analysis in Tsc1+/− nephron progenitor cells from mice with elevated nephron numbers reveals how differential translation of Wnt antagonists over agonists tips the balance between self-renewal and differentiation. Wnt agonists are poorly translated in young niches, resulting in an environment with low R-spondin and high Fgf20 promoting self-renewal. In older niches we find increased translation of Wnt agonists, including R-spondin and the signalosome-promoting Tmem59, and low Fgf20, promoting differentiation. This suggests that the tipping point for nephron progenitor exit from the niche is controlled by the gradual increase in stability and possibly clustering of Wnt/Fzd complexes in individual cells, enhancing the response to ureteric bud-derived Wnt9b inputs and driving synchronized differentiation. As predicted by these findings, removing one Rspo3 allele in nephron progenitors delays cessation and increases nephron numbers in vivo.
Underwater CAM photosynthesis elucidated by Isoetes genome
Authors: Wickell David , Kuo Li-Yaung , Yang Hsiao-Pei , Dhabalia Ashok Amra , Irisarri Iker , Dadras Armin , de Vries Sophie , de Vries Jan , Huang Yao-Moan , Li Zheng , Barker Michael S. , Hartwick Nolan T. , Michael Todd P. , Li Fay-Wei
Published: November 2021

To conserve water in arid environments, numerous plant lineages have independently evolved Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). Interestingly, Isoetes, an aquatic lycophyte, can also perform CAM as an adaptation to low CO2 availability underwater. However, little is known about the evolution of CAM in aquatic plants and the lack of genomic data has hindered comparison between aquatic and terrestrial CAM. Here, we investigate underwater CAM in Isoetes taiwanensis by generating a high-quality genome assembly and RNA-seq time course. Despite broad similarities between CAM in Isoetes and terrestrial angiosperms, we identify several key differences. Notably, Isoetes may have recruited the lesser-known ‘bacterial-type’ PEPC, along with the ‘plant-type’ exclusively used in other CAM and C4 plants for carboxylation of PEP. Furthermore, we find that circadian control of key CAM pathway genes has diverged considerably in Isoetes relative to flowering plants. This suggests the existence of more evolutionary paths to CAM than previously recognized.
The Tharsis mantle source of depleted shergottites revealed by 90 million impact craters
Authors: Lagain A. , Benedix G. K. , Servis K. , Baratoux D. , Doucet L. S. , Rajšic A. , Devillepoix H. A. R. , Bland P. A. , Towner M. C. , Sansom E. K. , Miljković K.
Published: November 2021

The only martian rock samples on Earth are meteorites ejected from the surface of Mars by asteroid impacts. The locations and geological contexts of the launch sites are currently unknown. Determining the impact locations is essential to unravel the relations between the evolution of the martian interior and its surface. Here we adapt a Crater Detection Algorithm that compile a database of 90 million impact craters, allowing to determine the potential launch position of these meteorites through the observation of secondary crater fields. We show that Tooting and 09-000015 craters, both located in the Tharsis volcanic province, are the most likely source of the depleted shergottites ejected 1.1 million year ago. This implies that a major thermal anomaly deeply rooted in the mantle under Tharsis was active over most of the geological history of the planet, and has sampled a depleted mantle, that has retained until recently geochemical signatures of Mars’ early history.
Laser nano-filament explosion for enabling open-grating sensing in optical fibre
Authors: Mahmoud Aghdami Keivan , Rahnama Abdullah , Ertorer Erden , Herman Peter R.
Published: November 2021

Embedding strong photonic stopbands into traditional optical fibre that can directly access and sense the outside environment is challenging, relying on tedious nano-processing steps that result in fragile thinned fibre. Ultrashort-pulsed laser filaments have recently provided a non-contact means of opening high-aspect ratio nano-holes inside of bulk transparent glasses. This method has been extended here to optical fibre, resulting in high density arrays of laser filamented holes penetrating transversely through the silica cladding and guiding core to provide high refractive index contrast Bragg gratings in the telecommunication band. The point‐by‐point fabrication was combined with post-chemical etching to engineer strong photonic stopbands directly inside of the compact and flexible fibre. Fibre Bragg gratings with sharply resolved π-shifts are presented for high resolution refractive index sensing from $${n}_{{{{{{\rm{H}}}}}}}$$

n

H

 = 1 to 1.67 as the nano-holes were readily wetted and filled with various solvents and oils through an intact fibre cladding.
The EMT activator ZEB1 accelerates endosomal trafficking to establish a polarity axis in lung adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Banerjee Priyam , Xiao Guan-Yu , Tan Xiaochao , Zheng Veronica J. , Shi Lei , Rabassedas Maria Neus Bota , Guo Hou-fu , Liu Xin , Yu Jiang , Diao Lixia , Wang Jing , Russell William K. , Roszik Jason , Creighton Chad J. , Kurie Jonathan M.
Published: November 2021

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a transcriptionally governed process by which cancer cells establish a front-rear polarity axis that facilitates motility and invasion. Dynamic assembly of focal adhesions and other actin-based cytoskeletal structures on the leading edge of motile cells requires precise spatial and temporal control of protein trafficking. Yet, the way in which EMT-activating transcriptional programs interface with vesicular trafficking networks that effect cell polarity change remains unclear. Here, by utilizing multiple approaches to assess vesicular transport dynamics through endocytic recycling and retrograde trafficking pathways in lung adenocarcinoma cells at distinct positions on the EMT spectrum, we find that the EMT-activating transcription factor ZEB1 accelerates endocytosis and intracellular trafficking of plasma membrane-bound proteins. ZEB1 drives turnover of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase by hastening receptor endocytosis and transport to the lysosomal compartment for degradation. ZEB1 relieves a plus-end-directed microtubule-dependent kinesin motor protein (KIF13A) and a clathrin-associated adaptor protein complex subunit (AP1S2) from microRNA-dependent silencing, thereby accelerating cargo transport through the endocytic recycling and retrograde vesicular pathways, respectively. Depletion of KIF13A or AP1S2 mitigates ZEB1-dependent focal adhesion dynamics, front-rear axis polarization, and cancer cell motility. Thus, ZEB1-dependent transcriptional networks govern vesicular trafficking dynamics to effect cell polarity change.
Marcus inverted region of charge transfer from low-dimensional semiconductor materials
Authors: Wang Junhui , Ding Tao , Gao Kaimin , Wang Lifeng , Zhou Panwang , Wu Kaifeng
Published: November 2021

A key process underlying the application of low-dimensional, quantum-confined semiconductors in energy conversion is charge transfer from these materials, which, however, has not been fully understood yet. Extensive studies of charge transfer from colloidal quantum dots reported rates increasing monotonically with driving forces, never displaying an inverted region predicted by the Marcus theory. The inverted region is likely bypassed by an Auger-like process whereby the excessive driving force is used to excite another Coulomb-coupled charge. Herein, instead of measuring charge transfer from excitonic states (coupled electron-hole pairs), we build a unique model system using zero-dimensional quantum dots or two-dimensional nanoplatelets and surface-adsorbed molecules that allows for measuring charge transfer from transiently-populated, single-charge states. The Marcus inverted region is clearly revealed in these systems. Thus, charge transfer from excitonic and single-charge states follows the Auger-assisted and conventional Marcus charge transfer models, respectively. This knowledge should enable rational design of energetics for efficient charge extraction from low-dimensional semiconductor materials as well as suppression of the associated energy-wasting charge recombination.
Full-color enhanced second harmonic generation using rainbow trapping in ultrathin hyperbolic metamaterials
Authors: Li Junhao , Hu Guangwei , Shi Lina , He Nan , Li Daqian , Shang Qiuyu , Zhang Qing , Fu Huange , Zhou Linlin , Xiong Wei , Guan Jianguo , Wang Jian , He Sailing , Chen Lin
Published: November 2021

Metasurfaces have provided a promising approach to enhance the nonlinearity at subwavelength scale, but usually suffer from a narrow bandwidth as imposed by sharp resonant features. Here, we counterintuitively report a broadband, enhanced second-harmonic generation, in nanopatterned hyperbolic metamaterials. The nanopatterning allows the direct access of the mode with large momentum, rendering the rainbow light trapping, i.e. slow light in a broad frequency, and thus enhancing the local field intensity for boosted nonlinear light-matter interactions. For a proof-of-concept demonstration, we fabricated a nanostructured Au/ZnO multilayer, and enhanced second harmonic generation can be observed within the visible wavelength range (400-650 nm). The enhancement factor is over 50 within the wavelength range of 470-650 nm, and a maximum conversion efficiency of 1.13×10−6 is obtained with a pump power of only 8.80 mW. Our results herein offer an effective and robust approach towards the broadband metasurface-based nonlinear devices for various important technologies.
Equivalent method for obtaining concrete age on the basis of electrical resistivity
Authors: Lu Xiaochun , Tong Fuguo , Zha Xinyuan , Liu Gang
Published: November 2021

Concrete age is the time since the moment water is added to the cement, and the age of concrete comprehensively reflects the physical properties of the concrete when curing under standard conditions. For concrete under nonstandard conditions, its physical properties are directly related to both its age and temperature history. The equivalent age of concrete is the time at which concrete under nonstandard conditions reaches the same state as concrete under standard conditions. Most equivalent methods, such as the Nurse-Saul function and the Arrhenius function, are based on a maturity index. However, the accuracy of these methods breaks down when the curing temperature range is wide. In this paper, the electrical resistivity of concrete is used as the index to determine the equivalent age of concrete. This method is based on the assumption that concrete with the same mixture proportions has the same electrical resistivity when the maturity of the concrete is the same, regardless of the curing history. The proposed method is advantageous because it can be performed in real time and is nondestructive. To constantly measure the electrical resistivity of concrete, an automatic data acquisition system is developed to monitor the electrical resistivity of concrete and reduce the error caused by polarization as much as possible. Then, a model for predicting the electrical resistivity of concrete under different curing temperatures is proposed to conveniently calculate the equivalent coefficient. Finally, the results calculated by the proposed equivalent method are compared with those of the standard method (Nurse-Saul equation), and the results of the proposed model are found to be more reasonable.
Assessing the origin, genetic structure and demographic history of the common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) in the introduced European range
Authors: Ashrafzadeh Mohammad Reza , Khosravi Rasoul , Fernandes Carlos , Aguayo Cecilia , Bagi Zoltán , Lavadinović Vukan M. , Szendrei László , Beuković Dejan , Mihalik Bendegúz , Kusza Szilvia
Published: November 2021

The common pheasant, a game species widely introduced throughout the world, can be considered as an ideal model to study the effects of introduction events on local adaptations, biogeographic patterns, and genetic divergence processes. We aimed to assess the origin, spatial patterns of genetic variation, and demographic history of the introduced populations in the contact zone of Central and Southeast Europe, using mitochondrial DNA control region sequences and microsatellite loci. Both types of molecular markers indicated relatively low to moderate levels of genetic variation. The mtDNA analyses revealed that common pheasants across the study area are divided into two distinct clades: B (mongolicus group) and F (colchicus group). Analyses of the microsatellite data consistently suggested a differentiation between Hungary and Serbia, with the pheasant population in Hungary being much more genetically homogeneous, while that of Serbia has much more genetic mixture and admixture. This cryptic differentiation was not detected using a non-spatial Bayesian clustering model. The analyses also provided strong evidence for a recent population expansion. This fundamental information is essential for adequate and effective conservation management of populations of a game species of great economic and ecological importance in the studied geographical region.
Molecular strategies for antibody binding and escape of SARS-CoV-2 and its mutations
Authors: Hendy Mohamed , Kaufman Samuel , Ponga Mauricio
Published: November 2021

The COVID19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has infected more than 200 million people worldwide. Due to the rapid spreading of SARS-CoV-2 and its impact, it is paramount to find effective treatments against it. Human neutralizing antibodies are an effective method to fight viral infection. However, the recent discovery of new strains that substantially change the S-protein sequence has raised concern about vaccines and antibodies’ effectiveness. Here, using molecular simulations, we investigated the binding mechanisms between the S-protein and several antibodies. Multiple mutations were included to understand the strategies for antibody escape in new variants. We found that the combination of mutations K417N, E484K, L452R, and T478K produced higher binding energy to ACE2 than the wild type, suggesting higher efficiency to enter host cells. The mutations’ effect depends on the antibody class. While Class I enhances the binding avidity in the presence of N501Y mutation, class II antibodies showed a sharp decline in the binding affinity. Our simulations suggest that Class I antibodies will remain effective against the new strains. In contrast, Class II antibodies will have less affinity to the S-protein, potentially affecting these antibodies’ efficiency.
Different prognostic impact of glucose uptake in visceral adipose tissue according to sex in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Lee Jae-Hoon , Kim Soyoung , Lee Hye Sun , Park Eun Jung , Baik Seung Hyuk , Jeon Tae Joo , Lee Kang Young , Ryu Young Hoon , Kang Jeonghyun
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether sex differences in visceral fat volume and glucose uptake measured by positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in abdominal visceral fat can stratify overall survival (OS) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). We retrospectively enrolled 293 patients diagnosed with CRC who underwent PET/CT before surgical resection. Fluorodeoxyglucose uptake of visceral adipose tissue (VAT-SUV) and subcutaneous adiposity tissue (SAT-SUV) were measured using PET/CT. The relative VAT (rVAT) was defined as the visceral fat volume normalized to the total volume of fat (VAT plus SAT). We defined sex-specific cutoff values for VAT-SUV, SAT-SUV, and rVAT. Univariate and multivariate analyses using Cox proportional hazard regression analysis were performed to identify the independent prognostic factors. The study population comprised 181 men and 112 women. The rVAT (0.40 vs. 0.29, p < 0.001) and VAT-SUV (0.55 vs. 0.48, p = 0.007) were significantly greater in men than in women. High rVAT (than low rVAT) and high VAT-SUV (than low VAT-SUV) showed a worse prognosis in male and female patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis indicated that the combination of rVAT and VAT-SUV was an independent prognostic factor for predicting OS in both male and female patients. The combination of rVAT and VAT-SUV could differentiate the patients with the best survival outcome from the other three individual groups in female patients, but not in males. Glucose uptake and relative volume of visceral fat may provide a new risk stratification for patients with CRC, especially female patients.
Three-dimensional anatomy of the Denonvilliers’ fascia after micro-CT reconstruction
Authors: Yang Seung Yoon , Kim Ho Seung , Cho Min Soo , Kim Nam Kyu
Published: November 2021

An understanding of the anatomy of the Denonvilliers’ fascia is essential for successful surgical outcomes for patients with rectal cancer in the mid- to lower regions, especially near the seminal vesicles and prostate in males. Whether the correct surgical plane during a total mesorectal excision should be anterior or posterior to the Denonvilliers’ fascia is currently under debate. This study aimed to investigate the Denonvilliers’ fascia using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) to acquire three-dimensional images nondestructively for assessments of the relationship between the Denonvilliers’ fascia, the mesorectal fascia, and neurovascular bundles to elucidate the correct anterior total mesorectal excision plane. Eight specimens were obtained bilaterally from four fresh human cadavers. Four specimens were stained with phosphotungstic acid to visualize the soft tissue, and micro-CT images were obtained; the other four specimens were stained with Masson’s trichrome to visualize connective tissue. Micro-CT images corroborate that the Denonvilliers’ fascia consists of a multilayered structure that separates the rectum from the seminal vesicles and the prostate. Specimens stained with Masson’s trichrome showed that the urogenital neurovascular bundle located at the posterolateral corner of the prostate is separated from the mesorectum by the Denonvilliers’ fascia. For the preservation of autonomic nerves necessary for urogenital function and optimal oncologic outcomes in patients with rectal cancer, a successful mesorectal excision requires a dissection plane posterior to the Denonvilliers’ fascia.
Serum anti-SERPINE1 antibody as a potential biomarker of acute cerebral infarction
Authors: Kubota Masaaki , Yoshida Yoichi , Kobayashi Eiichi , Matsutani Tomoo , Li Shu-Yang , Zhang Bo-Shi , Mine Seiichiro , Machida Toshio , Takizawa Hirotaka , Hiwasa Takaki , Iwadate Yasuo
Published: November 2021

The presence of disease-specific antigens and autoantibodies in the sera of patients with atherosclerosis-related diseases has been widely reported and is considered to result from inflammation of the arterial wall and the involvement of immune factors. The aim of this study was to identify a novel antibody in patients with ischemic stroke by serological identification of antigens using recombinant cDNA expression cloning from patients who had a transient ischemic attack (TIA). We identified the serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade E member 1 (SERPINE1), as a candidate antigen. The serum anti-SERPINE1 antibody levels quantified using amplified luminescent proximity homogeneous assay-linked immunosorbent assay were significantly higher in patients with ischemic stroke, including those with acute cerebral infarction (aCI), TIA, and chronic cerebral infarction, than in healthy donors. The antibody levels were strongly associated with old age, female sex, and presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. Age and intima-media thickness of the carotid artery were positively correlated with antibody levels, which suggests that SERPINE1 may reflect the progression of atherosclerosis. In a multivariate analysis, SERPINE1 antibody level was an independent predictor of aCI. Thus, the serum levels of anti-SERPINE1 antibody could potentially serve as a biomarker of atherothrombotic infarction.
Diosmectite inhibits the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and human enterocytes by trapping viral particles, thereby preventing NF-kappaB activation and CXCL10 secretion
Authors: Poeta Marco , Cioffi Valentina , Buccigrossi Vittoria , Nanayakkara Merlin , Baggieri Melissa , Peltrini Roberto , Amoresano Angela , Magurano Fabio , Guarino Alfredo
Published: November 2021

SARS-CoV-2 enters the intestine by the spike protein binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in enterocyte apical membranes, leading to diarrhea in some patients. Early treatment of COVID-19-associated diarrhea could relieve symptoms and limit viral spread within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Diosmectite, an aluminomagnesium silicate adsorbent clay with antidiarrheal effects, is recommended in some COVID-19 management protocols. In rotavirus models, diosmectite prevents pathogenic effects by binding the virus and its enterotoxin. We tested the trapping and anti-inflammatory properties of diosmectite in a SARS-CoV-2 model. Trapping effects were tested in Caco-2 cells using spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) and heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 preparations. Trapping was assessed by immunofluorescence, alone or in the presence of cells. The effect of diosmectite on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) activation and CXCL10 secretion induced by the spike protein RBD and heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed by Western blot and ELISA, respectively. Diosmectite bound the spike protein RBD and SARS-CoV-2 preparation, and inhibited interaction of the spike protein RBD with ACE2 receptors on the Caco-2 cell surface. Diosmectite exposure also inhibited NF-kappaB activation and CXCL10 secretion. These data provide direct evidence that diosmectite can bind SARS-CoV-2 components and inhibit downstream inflammation, supporting a mechanistic rationale for consideration of diosmectite as a management option for COVID-19-associated diarrhea.