bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular signal-Regulated Kinase 5 (ERK5) is required for the Yes-associated protein (YAP) co-transcriptional activity
Authors: Ippolito Francesca , Consalvi Veronica , Noce Valeria , Battistelli Cecilia , Cicchini Carla , Tripodi Marco , Amicone Laura , Marchetti Alessandra
Published: January 2023

YES-associated protein (YAP) is a transcriptional cofactor with a key role in the regulation of several physio-pathological cellular processes, by integrating multiple cell autonomous and microenvironmental cues. YAP is the main downstream effector of the Hippo pathway, a tumor-suppressive signaling able to transduce several extracellular signals. The Hippo pathway acts restraining YAP activity, since its activation induces YAP phosphorylation and cytoplasmic sequestration. However, recent observations indicate that YAP activity can be also modulated by Hippo independent/integrating pathways, still largely unexplored. In this study, we demonstrated the role of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5)/mitogen-activated protein kinase in the regulation of YAP activity. By means of ERK5 inhibition/silencing and overexpression experiments, and by using as model liver stem cells, hepatocytes, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines, we provided evidence that ERK5 is required for YAP-dependent gene expression. Mechanistically, ERK5 controls the recruitment of YAP on promoters of target genes and its physical interaction with the transcriptional partner TEAD; moreover, it mediates the YAP activation occurring in cell adhesion, migration, and TGFβ-induced EMT of liver cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that ERK5 signaling modulates YAP activity in a LATS1/2-independent manner. Therefore, our observations identify ERK5 as a novel upstream Hippo-independent regulator of YAP activity, thus unveiling a new target for therapeutic approaches aimed at interfering with its function.
A RIPK3-independent role of MLKL in suppressing parthanatos promotes immune evasion in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Xifei , Deng Wenjia , Tao Siyao , Tang Zheng , Chen Yuehong , Tian Mengxin , Wang Ting , Tao Chenyang , Li Yize , Fang Yuan , Pu Congying , Gao Jun , Wang Xiaomin , Qu Weifeng , Gai Xiameng , Ding Zhenbin , Fu Yixian , Zheng Ying , Cao Siyuwei , Zhou Jian , Huang Min , Liu Weiren , Xu Jun , Fan Jia , Shi Yinghong
Published: January 2023

Mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) is widely accepted as an executioner of necroptosis, in which MLKL mediates necroptotic signaling and triggers cell death in a receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3)-dependent manner. Recently, it is increasingly noted that RIPK3 is intrinsically silenced in hepatocytes, raising a question about the role of MLKL in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study reports a previously unrecognized role of MLKL in regulating parthanatos, a programmed cell death distinct from necroptosis. In HCC cells with intrinsic RIPK3 deficiency, knockout of MLKL impedes the orthotopic tumor growth, activates the anti-tumor immune response and enhances the therapeutic effect of immune checkpoint blockade in syngeneic HCC tumor models. Mechanistically, MLKL is required for maintaining the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondrial Mg2+ dynamics in HCC cells. MLKL deficiency restricts ER Mg2+ release and mitochondrial Mg2+ uptake, leading to ER dysfunction and mitochondrial oxidative stress, which together confer increased susceptibility to metabolic stress-induced parthanatos. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase to block parthanatos restores the tumor growth and immune evasion in MLKL-knockout HCC tumors. Together, our data demonstrate a new RIPK3-independent role of MLKL in regulating parthanatos and highlight the role of MLKL in facilitating immune evasion in HCC.
Half a century of rising extinction risk of coral reef sharks and rays
Authors: Sherman C. Samantha , Simpfendorfer Colin A. , Pacoureau Nathan , Matsushiba Jay H. , Yan Helen F. , Walls Rachel H. L. , Rigby Cassandra L. , VanderWright Wade J. , Jabado Rima W. , Pollom Riley A. , Carlson John K. , Charvet Patricia , Bin Ali Ahmad , Fahmi  , Cheok Jessica , Derrick Danielle H. , Herman Katelyn B. , Finucci Brittany , Eddy Tyler D. , Palomares Maria Lourdes D. , Avalos-Castillo Christopher G. , Kinattumkara Bineesh , Blanco-Parra María-del-Pilar , Dharmadi  , Espinoza Mario , Fernando Daniel , Haque Alifa B. , Mejía-Falla Paola A. , Navia Andrés F. , Pérez-Jiménez Juan Carlos , Utzurrum Jean , Yuneni Ranny R. , Dulvy Nicholas K.
Published: January 2023

Sharks and rays are key functional components of coral reef ecosystems, yet many populations of a few species exhibit signs of depletion and local extinctions. The question is whether these declines forewarn of a global extinction crisis. We use IUCN Red List to quantify the status, trajectory, and threats to all coral reef sharks and rays worldwide. Here, we show that nearly two-thirds (59%) of the 134 coral-reef associated shark and ray species are threatened with extinction. Alongside marine mammals, sharks and rays are among the most threatened groups found on coral reefs. Overfishing is the main cause of elevated extinction risk, compounded by climate change and habitat degradation. Risk is greatest for species that are larger-bodied (less resilient and higher trophic level), widely distributed across several national jurisdictions (subject to a patchwork of management), and in nations with greater fishing pressure and weaker governance. Population declines have occurred over more than half a century, with greatest declines prior to 2005. Immediate action through local protections, combined with broad-scale fisheries management and Marine Protected Areas, is required to avoid extinctions and the loss of critical ecosystem function condemning reefs to a loss of shark and ray biodiversity and ecosystem services, limiting livelihoods and food security.
Harnessing gut microbes for glycan detection and quantification
Authors: Modesto Jennifer L. , Pearce Victoria H. , Townsend Guy E.
Published: January 2023

Glycans facilitate critical biological functions and control the mammalian gut microbiota composition by supplying differentially accessible nutrients to distinct microbial subsets. Therefore, identifying unique glycan substrates that support defined microbial populations could inform therapeutic avenues to treat diseases via modulation of the gut microbiota composition and metabolism. However, examining heterogeneous glycan mixtures for individual microbial substrates is hindered by glycan structural complexity and diversity, which presents substantial challenges to glycomics approaches. Fortuitously, gut microbes encode specialized sensor proteins that recognize unique glycan structures and in-turn activate predictable, specific, and dynamic transcriptional responses. Here, we harness this microbial machinery to indicate the presence and abundance of compositionally similar, yet structurally distinct glycans, using a transcriptional reporter we develop. We implement these tools to examine glycan mixtures, isolate target molecules for downstream characterization, and quantify the recovered products. We assert that this toolkit could dramatically enhance our understanding of the mammalian intestinal environment and identify host-microbial interactions critical for human health.
Interaction between dry and hot extremes at a global scale using a cascade modeling framework
Authors: Mukherjee Sourav , Mishra Ashok Kumar , Zscheischler Jakob , Entekhabi Dara
Published: January 2023

Climate change amplifies dry and hot extremes, yet the mechanism, extent, scope, and temporal scale of causal linkages between dry and hot extremes remain underexplored. Here using the concept of system dynamics, we investigate cross-scale interactions within dry-to-hot and hot-to-dry extreme event networks and quantify the magnitude, temporal-scale, and physical drivers of cascading effects (CEs) of drying-on-heating and vice-versa, across the globe. We find that locations exhibiting exceptionally strong CE (hotspots) for dry-to-hot and hot-to-dry extremes generally coincide. However, the CEs differ strongly in their timescale of interaction, hydroclimatic drivers, and sensitivity to changes in the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum and background aridity. The CE of drying-on-heating in the hotspot locations reaches its peak immediately driven by the compounding influence of vapor pressure deficit, potential evapotranspiration, and precipitation. In contrast, the CE of heating-on-drying peaks gradually dominated by concurrent changes in potential evapotranspiration, precipitation, and net-radiation with the effect of vapor pressure deficit being strongly controlled by ecosystem isohydricity and background aridity. Our results help improve our understanding of the causal linkages and the predictability of compound extremes and related impacts.
Transcriptional vulnerabilities of striatal neurons in human and rodent models of Huntington’s disease
Authors: Matsushima Ayano , Pineda Sergio Sebastian , Crittenden Jill R. , Lee Hyeseung , Galani Kyriakitsa , Mantero Julio , Tombaugh Geoffrey , Kellis Manolis , Heiman Myriam , Graybiel Ann M.
Published: January 2023

Striatal projection neurons (SPNs), which progressively degenerate in human patients with Huntington’s disease (HD), are classified along two axes: the canonical direct-indirect pathway division and the striosome-matrix compartmentation. It is well established that the indirect-pathway SPNs are susceptible to neurodegeneration and transcriptomic disturbances, but less is known about how the striosome-matrix axis is compromised in HD in relation to the canonical axis. Here we show, using single-nucleus RNA-sequencing data from male Grade 1 HD patient post-mortem brain samples and male zQ175 and R6/2 mouse models, that the two axes are multiplexed and differentially compromised in HD. In human HD, striosomal indirect-pathway SPNs are the most depleted SPN population. In mouse HD models, the transcriptomic distinctiveness of striosome-matrix SPNs is diminished more than that of direct-indirect pathway SPNs. Furthermore, the loss of striosome-matrix distinction is more prominent within indirect-pathway SPNs. These results open the possibility that the canonical direct-indirect pathway and striosome-matrix compartments are differentially compromised in late and early stages of disease progression, respectively, differentially contributing to the symptoms, thus calling for distinct therapeutic strategies.
Ion sieving in graphene oxide membrane enables efficient actinides/lanthanides separation
Authors: Wang Zhipeng , Huang Liqin , Dong Xue , Wu Tong , Qing Qi , Chen Jing , Lu Yuexiang , Xu Chao
Published: January 2023

Separation of actinides from lanthanides is of great importance for the safe management of nuclear waste and sustainable development of nuclear energy, but it represents a huge challenge due to the chemical complexity of these f-elements. Herein, we report an efficient separation strategy based on ion sieving in graphene oxide membrane. In the presence of a strong oxidizing reagent, the actinides (U, Np, Pu, Am) in a nitric acid solution exist in the high valent and linear dioxo form of actinyl ions while the lanthanides (Ce, Nd, Eu, Gd, etc.) remain as trivalent/tetravalent spheric ions. A task-specific graphene oxide membrane with an interlayer nanochannel spacing between the sizes of hydrated actinyl ions and lanthanides ions is tailored and used as an ionic cut-off filter, which blocks the larger and linear actinyl ions but allows the smaller and spheric lanthanides ions to penetrate through, affording lanthanides/actinides separation factors up to ~400. This work realizes the group separation of actinides from lanthanides under highly acidic conditions by a simple ion sieving strategy and highlights the great potential of utilizing graphene oxide membrane for nuclear waste treatment.
Network segregation and the propagation of misinformation
Authors: Stein Jonas , Keuschnigg Marc , van de Rijt Arnout
Published: January 2023

How does the ideological segregation of online networks impact the spread of misinformation? Past studies have found that homophily generally increases diffusion, suggesting that partisan news, whether true or false, will spread farther in ideologically segregated networks. We argue that network segregation disproportionately aids messages that are otherwise too implausible to diffuse, thus favoring false over true news. To test this argument, we seeded true and false informational messages in experimental networks in which subjects were either ideologically integrated or segregated, yielding 512 controlled propagation histories in 16 independent information systems. Experimental results reveal that the fraction of false information circulating was systematically greater in ideologically segregated networks. Agent-based models show robustness of this finding across different network topologies and sizes. We conclude that partisan sorting undermines the veracity of information circulating on the Internet by increasing exposure to content that would otherwise not manage to diffuse.
The role of social support and sociocultural adjustment for international students' mental health
Authors: Razgulin Jevgenij , Argustaitė-Zailskienė Gita , Šmigelskas Kastytis
Published: January 2023

The study aims to assess the role of social support, sociocultural adjustment, and other social and demographic factors in international students' mental health. In total, 193 international first-year students studying Health and Technology Sciences in Lithuania filled out a self-report questionnaire. The study revealed that overall 59% of international students had symptoms of depression and 36%—of anxiety. Students' well-being was sufficient in 56% of the cases. The regression analyses were conducted to test the role of sociocultural adjustment, social support, English reading skills, and the study field for mental health and well-being. The multivariate regression model revealed that sociocultural adjustment is a stronger predictor compared to social support for depressiveness (βs = 0.42), anxiety (βs = 0.30), psychosomatic symptoms (βs = − 0.24), and subjective health (βs = 0.16), though social support was a stronger independent predictor for well-being (βs = 0.37). Moreover, sociocultural adjustment and social support were stronger predictors than gender, while English reading skills and study field were non-significant indicators.
Modeling marine cargo traffic to identify countries in Africa with greatest risk of invasion by Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Ahn Jordan , Sinka Marianne , Irish Seth , Zohdy Sarah
Published: January 2023

Anopheles stephensi, an invasive malaria vector native to South Asia and the Arabian Peninsula, was detected in Djibouti’s seaport, followed by Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, and Nigeria. If An. stephensi introduction is facilitated through seatrade, similar to other invasive mosquitoes, the identification of at-risk countries are needed to increase surveillance and response efforts. Bilateral maritime trade data is used to (1) identify coastal African countries which were highly connected to select An. stephensi endemic countries, (2) develop a prioritization list of countries based on the likelihood of An. stephensi introduction through maritime trade index (LASIMTI), and (3) use network analysis of intracontinental maritime trade to determine likely introduction pathways. Sudan and Djibouti were ranked as the top two countries with LASIMTI in 2011, which were the first two coastal African countries where An. stephensi was detected. With Djibouti and Sudan included as source populations, 2020 data identify Egypt, Kenya, Mauritius, Tanzania, and Morocco as the top countries with LASIMTI. Network analysis highlight South Africa, Mauritius, Ghana, and Togo. These tools can prioritize efforts for An. stephensi surveillance and control in Africa. Surveillance in seaports of identified countries may limit further expansion of An. stephensi by serving as an early warning system.
Exploring the mobility in the Madrid Community
Authors: Mouronte-López Mary Luz , Gómez Javier
Published: January 2023

Displacements within urban spaces have attracted particular interest among researchers. We examine the journeys that happen in the Madrid Community considering 24 travel typologies and 1390 administrative areas. From an origin–destination (OD) matrix, four classes of major flows are characterised through coarse-graining: hotspot–non-hotspots, non-hotspot–hotspots, hotspots–hotspots, non-hotspot–non-hotspot. In order to make comparisons between them with respect to spatial and temporal patterns, several statistical tests are performed. The spatial activity as well as transition probabilities between administrative zones are also analysed. The mobility network’s topology is examined (some parameters such as maximal connected components, average degree, betweenness, and assortativity as well as the k-cores are checked). A model describing the formation of links between zones (existence of at least one trip between them) is constructed based on certain measures of affinity between areas.
Vasoactive intestinal peptide blockade suppresses tumor growth by regulating macrophage polarization and function in CT26 tumor-bearing mice
Authors: Kittikulsuth Wararat , Nakano Daisuke , Kitada Kento , Uyama Toru , Ueda Natsuo , Asano Eisuke , Okano Keiichi , Matsuda Yoko , Nishiyama Akira
Published: January 2023

Macrophages are a major population of immune cells in solid cancers, especially colorectal cancers. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are commonly divided into M1-like (tumor suppression) and M2-like (tumor promotion) phenotypes. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an immunoregulatory neuropeptide with a potent anti-inflammatory function. Inhibition of VIP signaling has been shown to increase CD8+ T cell proliferation and function in viral infection and lymphoma. However, the role of VIP in macrophage polarization and function in solid tumors remains unknown. Here, we demonstrated that conditioned medium from CT26 (CT26-CM) cells enhanced M2-related marker and VIP receptor (VPAC) gene expression in RAW264.7 macrophages. VIP hybrid, a VIP antagonist, enhanced M1-related genes but reduced Mrc1 gene expression and increased phagocytic ability in CT26-CM-treated RAW264.7 cells. In immunodeficient SCID mice, VIP antagonist alone or in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody attenuated CT26 tumor growth compared with the control. Analysis of tumor-infiltrating leukocytes found that VIP antagonist increased M1/M2 ratios and macrophage phagocytosis of CT26-GFP cells. Furthermore, Vipr2 gene silencing or VPAC2 activation affected the polarization of CT26-CM-treated RAW264.7 cells. In conclusion, the inhibition of VIP signaling enhanced M1 macrophage polarization and macrophage phagocytic function, resulting in tumor regression in a CT26 colon cancer model.
Efficient adsorptive removal of paracetamol and thiazolyl blue from polluted water onto biosynthesized copper oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Akpomie Kovo G. , Conradie Jeanet
Published: January 2023

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) have received tremendous attention as efficient adsorbents owing to their low cost, desirable surface area, abundant active sites, potent textural characteristics and high adsorption capacities. However, CuONPs have not been employed to decontaminate water laden with increasing environmental contaminants such as thiazolyl blue and paracetamol. Herein, the adsorption of thiazolyl blue and paracetamol onto green synthesized CuONPs prepared from the aqueous leaf extract of Platanus occidentalis was studied. The BET, SEM, FTIR, XRD, EDX and pH point of zero charge showed the successful synthesis of CuONPs having desirable surface properties with a surface area of 58.76 m2/g and an average size of 82.13 nm. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacities of 72.46 mg/g and 64.52 mg/g were obtained for thiazolyl blue and paracetamol, respectively. The Freundlich, pseudo-second-order and intraparticle diffusion models were well fitted to the adsorption of both pollutants. The pH studies suggested the predominance of electrostatic and weaker intermolecular interactions in the adsorption of the thiazolyl blue and paracetamol, respectively. Spontaneous, physical, endothermic and random adsorption of the pollutants on CuONPs was obtained from the thermodynamic consideration. The biosynthesized CuONPs were found to be highly reusable and efficient for the adsorption of thiazolyl blue and paracetamol from water.
Impact of iron status on kidney outcomes in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Kim Hyo Jeong , Han Ro , Kang Kyung Pyo , Ryu Jung-Hwa , Kim Myung-Gyu , Huh Kyu Ha , Park Jae Berm , Kim Chan-Duck , Han Seungyeup , Kim Hyung Woo , Kim Beom Seok , Yang Jaeseok
Published: January 2023

Iron plays an important role in hemodynamics and the immunity, independent of anemia. Since dynamic changes occur in iron storage after kidney transplantation (KT), we investigated the association between iron status and kidney outcomes in KT patients. We analyzed data from the KoreaN cohort study for Outcome in patients With KT (KNOW-KT). The iron status was classified into three groups based on ferritin or transferrin saturation (TSAT) levels one year after KT, with reference ranges of 20‒35% and 100‒300 ng/mL for TSAT and ferritin, respectively. The primary outcome was the composite outcome, which consisted of death, graft failure, and an estimated glomerular filtration rate decline ≥ 50%. In total, 895 patients were included in the final analysis. During a median follow-up of 5.8 years, the primary outcome occurred in 94 patients (19.8/1000 person-years). TSAT levels decreased one year after KT and thereafter gradually increased, whereas ferritin levels were maintained at decreased levels. The adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for the composite outcome were 1.67 (1.00–2.77) and 1.20 (0.60–2.40) in the TSAT > 35% and ferritin > 300 ng/mL groups, respectively. High iron status with high TSAT levels increases the risk of graft failure or kidney functional deterioration after KT.
Distinctive physical insights driven from machine learning modelling of nuclear power plant severe accident scenario propagation
Authors: Hossny K. , Villanueva W. , Wang H. D.
Published: January 2023

The severe accident scenario propagation studies of nuclear power plants (NPPs) have been one of the most critical factors in deploying nuclear power for decades. During an NPP accident, the accident scenario can change during its propagation from the initiating event to a series of accident sub-scenarios. Hence, having time-wise updated information about the current type of accident sub-scenario can help plant operators mitigate the accident propagation and underlying consequences. In this work, we demonstrate the capability of machine learning (Decision Tree) to help researchers and design engineers in finding distinctive physical insights between four different types of accident scenarios based on the pressure vessel's maximum external surface temperature at a particular time. Although the four accidents we included in this study are considered some of the most extensively studied NPPs accident scenarios for decades, our findings shows that decision tree classification could define remarkable distinct differences between them with reliable statistical confidence.
Deep reptilian evolutionary roots of a major avian respiratory adaptation
Authors: Wang Yan-yin , Claessens Leon P. A. M. , Sullivan Corwin
Published: January 2023

Vertebral ribs of the anterior thorax in extant birds bear bony prongs called uncinate processes, which improve the mechanical advantage of mm. appendicocostales to move air through the immobile lung and pneumatic air sacs. Among non-avian archosaurs, broad, cartilaginous uncinate processes are present in extant crocodylians, and likely have a ventilatory function. Preserved ossified or calcified uncinate processes are known in several non-avian dinosaurs. However, whether other fossil archosaurs possessed cartilaginous uncinate processes has been unclear. Here, we establish osteological correlates for uncinate attachment to vertebral ribs in extant archosaurs, with which we inferred the presence of uncinate processes in at least 19 fossil archosaur taxa. An ancestral state reconstruction based on the infer distribution suggests that cartilaginous uncinate processes were plesiomorphically present in Dinosauria and arguably in Archosauria, indicating that uncinate processes, and presumably their ventilatory function, have a deep evolutionary history extending back well beyond the origin of birds.
Role of miR-944/MMP10/AXL- axis in lymph node metastasis in tongue cancer
Authors: Dharavath Bhasker , Butle Ashwin , Pal Ankita , Desai Sanket , Upadhyay Pawan , Rane Aishwarya , Khandelwal Risha , Manavalan Sujith , Thorat Rahul , Sonawane Kavita , Vaish Richa , Gera Poonam , Bal Munita , D’Cruz Anil K. , Nair Sudhir , Dutt Amit
Published: January 2023

Occult lymph-node metastasis is a crucial predictor of tongue cancer mortality, with an unmet need to understand the underlying mechanism. Our immunohistochemical and real-time PCR analysis of 208 tongue tumors show overexpression of Matrix Metalloproteinase, MMP10, in 86% of node-positive tongue tumors (n = 79; p < 0.00001). Additionally, global profiling for non-coding RNAs associated with node-positive tumors reveals that of the 11 significantly de-regulated miRNAs, miR-944 negatively regulates MMP10 by targeting its 3’-UTR. We demonstrate that proliferation, migration, and invasion of tongue cancer cells are suppressed by MMP10 knockdown or miR-944 overexpression. Further, we show that depletion of MMP10 prevents nodal metastases using an orthotopic tongue cancer mice model. In contrast, overexpression of MMP10 leads to opposite effects upregulating epithelial-mesenchymal-transition, mediated by a tyrosine kinase gene, AXL, to promote nodal and distant metastasis in vivo. Strikingly, AXL expression is essential and sufficient to mediate the functional consequence of MMP10 overexpression. Consistent with our findings, TCGA-HNSC data suggests overexpression of MMP10 or AXL positively correlates with poor survival of the patients. In conclusion, our results establish that the miR-944/MMP10/AXL- axis underlies lymph node metastases with potential therapeutic intervention and prediction of nodal metastases in tongue cancer patients.
Efficient CRISPR-Cas9 based cytosine base editors for phytopathogenic bacteria
Authors: Li Chenhao , Wang Longfei , Cseke Leland J. , Vasconcelos Fernanda , Huguet-Tapia Jose Carlos , Gassmann Walter , Pauwels Laurens , White Frank F. , Dong Hansong , Yang Bing
Published: January 2023

Phytopathogenic bacteria play important roles in plant productivity, and developments in gene editing have potential for enhancing the genetic tools for the identification of critical genes in the pathogenesis process. CRISPR-based genome editing variants have been developed for a wide range of applications in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. However, the unique mechanisms of different hosts restrict the wide adaptation for specific applications. Here, CRISPR-dCas9 (dead Cas9) and nCas9 (Cas9 nickase) deaminase vectors were developed for a broad range of phytopathogenic bacteria. A gene for a dCas9 or nCas9, cytosine deaminase CDA1, and glycosylase inhibitor fusion protein (cytosine base editor, or CBE) was applied to base editing under the control of different promoters. Results showed that the RecA promoter led to nearly 100% modification of the target region. When residing on the broad host range plasmid pHM1, CBERecAp is efficient in creating base edits in strains of Xanthomonas, Pseudomonas, Erwinia and Agrobacterium. CBE based on nCas9 extended the editing window and produced a significantly higher editing rate in Pseudomonas. Strains with nonsynonymous mutations in test genes displayed expected phenotypes. By multiplexing guide RNA genes, the vectors can modify up to four genes in a single round of editing. Whole-genome sequencing of base-edited isolates of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae revealed guide RNA-independent off-target mutations. Further modifications of the CBE, using a CDA1 variant (CBERecAp-A) reduced off-target effects, providing an improved editing tool for a broad group of phytopathogenic bacteria.
Directly imaging emergence of phase separation in peroxidized lipid membranes
Authors: Paez-Perez Miguel , Vyšniauskas Aurimas , López-Duarte Ismael , Lafarge Eulalie J. , López-Ríos De Castro Raquel , Marques Carlos M. , Schroder André P. , Muller Pierre , Lorenz Christian D. , Brooks Nicholas J. , Kuimova Marina K.
Published: January 2023

Lipid peroxidation is a process which is key in cell signaling and disease, it is exploited in cancer therapy in the form of photodynamic therapy. The appearance of hydrophilic moieties within the bilayer’s hydrocarbon core will dramatically alter the structure and mechanical behavior of membranes. Here, we combine viscosity sensitive fluorophores, advanced microscopy, and X-ray diffraction and molecular simulations to directly and quantitatively measure the bilayer’s structural and viscoelastic properties, and correlate these with atomistic molecular modelling. Our results indicate an increase in microviscosity and a decrease in the bending rigidity upon peroxidation of the membranes, contrary to the trend observed with non-oxidized lipids. Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy and MD simulations give evidence for the presence of membrane regions of different local order in the oxidized membranes. We hypothesize that oxidation promotes stronger lipid-lipid interactions, which lead to an increase in the lateral heterogeneity within the bilayer and the creation of lipid clusters of higher order.
Singlet fission dynamics modulated by molecular configuration in covalently linked pyrene dimers, Anti- and Syn-1,2-di(pyrenyl)benzene
Authors: Choi Jungkweon , Kim Siin , Ahn Mina , Kim Jungmin , Cho Dae Won , Kim Doyeong , Eom Seunghwan , Im Donghwan , Kim Yujeong , Kim Sun Hee , Wee Kyung-Ryang , Ihee Hyotcherl
Published: January 2023

Covalently linked dimers (CLDs) and their structural isomers have attracted much attention as potential materials for improving power conversion efficiencies through singlet fission (SF). Here, we designed and synthesized two covalently ortho-linked pyrene (Py) dimers, anti- and syn-1,2-di(pyrenyl)benzene (Anti-DPyB and Syn-DPyB, respectively), and investigated the effect of molecular configuration on SF dynamics using steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopies. Both Anti-DPyB and Syn-DPyB, which have different Py-stacking configurations, form excimers, which then relax to the correlated triplet pair ((T1T1)) state, indicating the occurrence of SF. Unlike previous studies where the excimer formation inhibited an SF process, the (T1T1)’s of Anti-DPyB and Syn-DPyB are formed through the excimer state. The dissociation of (T1T1)’s to 2T1 in Anti-DPyB is more favorable than in Syn-DPyB. Our results showcase that the molecular configuration of a CLD plays an important role in SF dynamics.
Different crystallographic Ni(OH)2as highly efficient Fenton-like catalysts for sulfate radical activation
Authors: Li Yunzhang , Xu Jin , Shi Guosheng , Yue Dongting
Published: January 2023

Schematic drawings of the PDS activation for the organic pollutant degradation mechanism in the α@β-Ni(OH)2/PDS system.
A UV-induced self-reinforced hydrogel based onin situhydrophobic aggregation of strained 1,2-dithiolane rings
Authors: Jiang Yu , Zhong Huiqing , Tan Qinwen , Zhan Dezhi , Wang Aolin , Zhang Daohong
Published: January 2023

A self-reinforced and self-healing hydrogel was developed based on the hydrophobic aggregation and oligomerization of strained 1,2-dithiolane rings under UV stimulation.
Determining the oxidation states of dissolved transition metals in battery electrolytes from solution NMR spectra
Authors: Allen Jennifer P. , Grey Clare P.
Published: January 2023

Solution NMR of battery electrolytes reveals the oxidation states of metals dissolved from battery cathodes.
Recent advances of slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces with anti-corrosion
Authors: Yan Wenhao , Xue Shuaiya , Bin Xiang  , Zhao Xuerui , Zhang Wei , Mu Peng , Li Jian
Published: January 2023

Slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces with dense lubricant layer and non-adhesive enable to effectively avoid metal corrosion.
Lignin C–C bond cleavage induced by consecutive two-photon excitation of a metal-free photocatalyst
Authors: Li Pengju , Liu Rong , Zhao Zijian , Niu Fushuang , Hu Ke
Published: January 2023

A commercially-available metal-free photocatalyst induces lignin C–C bond cleavage through consecutive two-photon excitation in additive-free ambient air conditions.
Oxyanion-modified zero valent iron with excellent pollutant removal performance
Authors: Gong Li , Zhang Lizhi
Published: January 2023

Oxyanion-modified zero valent iron (OM-ZVI), including oxyanion-modified microscale ZVI (OM-mZVI) and nanoscale zero valent iron (OM-nZVI), has attracted growing interest in recent years for their excellent pollutant removal performance.
Tetra-n-butylammonium decatungstate supported on Fe3O4 nanoparticles: a novel nanocatalyst for green synthesis of nitroso compounds
Authors: Cheng Peng , Sarakha Mohamed , Mousty Christine , Bonnet Pierre , Mailhot Gilles
Published: January 2023

The Fe3O4/TBADT composite catalyst (M-DT) can efficiently oxidize aromatic amine compounds selectively into nitroso compounds in the presence of H2O2. The high efficiency is due to the strong interaction between Fe3O4 and TBADT.
Noncovalent interaction mechanism and functional properties of flavonoid glycoside-β-lactoglobulin complexes
Authors: Fu Min , Gao Lizhi , Geng Qin , Li Ti , Dai Taotao , Liu Chengmei , Chen Jun
Published: January 2023

Flavonoid glycoside-β-lactoglobulin complexes were formed via non-covalent interactions and the functional properties of complexes were improved through binding.
Hydrogenation of BHMF with controllable selectivity to tetrahydropyranone and 1-hydroxy-2,5-hexanedione under atmospheric H2pressure
Authors: Duan Ying , Zhang Chi , Deng Dongsheng , Sui Dong , Gao Xiaohan , Yang Yanliang
Published: January 2023

BHMF was selectively transformed into different chemicals under atmospheric H2pressure by the selection of metal catalysts. A reasonable reaction mechanism was proposed through the combination of experimental and theoretical calculations.
A binder-free method to produce heat-sealable and transparent cellulose films driven by a confined green solvent
Authors: Huang Chengling , Yu Hou-Yong , Chen Lumin , Xue Bin , Shen Yunfei , Shen Jiayuan , Tam Kam Chiu
Published: January 2023

The two tricky problems: hard to dissolve and heat seal always hinder the step of cellulose materials for replacing plastic. Here, a binder-free method is proposed to realize the bonding of cellulose film via a green confined solvent.
Hydrothermal humification mechanism of typical agricultural waste biomass: a case study of corn straw
Authors: Peng Xiongxin , Gai Shuang , Cheng Kui , Yang Fan
Published: January 2023

Hydrothermal humification kinetics experiments were carried out to determine the formation mechanism of artificial humus.
Green synthesis of polypyrrole for CO2 capture from humid flue gases
Authors: Wang Zhe , Li Zhuo , Liu Liying , Cao Peizhi , Li Shupeng , Li Gang Kevin
Published: January 2023

Post-combustion carbon capture from fossil fuels for concentrated sources such as power plants is considered as one of the efficient ways to mitigate CO2 emissions.
Quantitative elemental mapping of chondritic meteorites using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-time of flight-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-TOF-MS)
Authors: Maeda Ryoga , Van Acker Thibaut , Vanhaecke Frank , Yamaguchi Akira , Debaille Vinciane , Claeys Phillippe , Goderis Steven
Published: January 2023

Fast-(semi)quantitative elemental mapping using state-of-the-art laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-time of flight-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-TOF-MS) was applied to a set of chondritic meteorite samples.
High-precision lithium isotopic analysis using the Nu Sapphire MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Liu Shanke , Li Wenjun , Su Benxun , Gao Bingyu , Wang Jing , Wang Changle , Luo Yang , Yan Lizhi , Zhao Ye
Published: January 2023

With single-column chemical purification, highly accurate δ7Li values for eight international reference materials are presented together with seventeen Chinese geological reference materials from NRCG using the Nu Sapphire.
Analyzing angiogenesis on a chip using deep learning-based image processing
Authors: Choi Dong-Hee , Liu Hui-Wen , Jung Yong Hun , Ahn Jinchul , Kim Jin-A , Oh Dongwoo , Jeong Yeju , Kim Minseop , Yoon Hongjin , Kang Byengkyu , Hong Eunsol , Song Euijeong , Chung Seok
Published: January 2023

A new algorithm based on deep learning analyzes angiogenic morphogenesis images taken from angiogenesis on a chip. This method can assess the morphology of angiogenesis in great depth using multiple indicators and extract 3D indices from 2D images.
Collection, nucleic acid release, amplification, and visualization platform for rapid field detection of rice false smut
Authors: Sun Zongbao , Qi Jiahao , Shen Ye , Yang Ning , Liu Shuhua , Wang Aiying , Wang Cilin , Tang Jian
Published: January 2023

A collection, nucleic acid release, amplification, and visualization platform for rapid field detection of rice false smut is created.
A Pd-anchored poly(vinyl chloride-co-maleic acid monoamide)/poly(vinyl chloride) ultrafiltration membrane for the efficient degradation of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Sun Dongcang , Song Changtong , Zhang Xianhong , Chen Dong , Ma Yuhong , Yang Wantai
Published: January 2023

Low molecular weight poly(vinyl chloride-co-maleic acid monoamide) was synthesized and blended with PVC to prepare ultrafiltration membranes with improved hydrophilicity and loaded Pd nanoparticles to couple separation and catalysis processes.
Impact of coherent core/shell architecture on fast response in InP-based quantum dot photodiodes
Authors: Nemoto Kazuhiro , Watanabe Junpei , Yamada Hiroyuki , Sun Hong-Tao , Shirahata Naoto
Published: January 2023

Solution-processed, cadmium-free quantum dot (QD) photodiodes are compatible with printable optoelectronics and are regarded as a potential candidate for optical sensing with fast speed response and wavelength selectivity.
Synthesis and properties of hollow Fe3O4@Au hybrid nano-structures for T1–T2 MR imaging and a combination of magnetic and photo-induced heating
Authors: Linh Nguyen T. N. , Dung Ngo T. , Tam Le T. T. , Tam Le T. , Hung Nguyen P. , Vinh Nguyen D. , Ha Ngo T. , Nam Pham. H. , Thanh Le V. , Dong Nguyen V. , Nam Le G. , Dang Nguyen V. , Phuc Nguyen X. , Tung Le D. , Thanh Nguyen T. K. , Lu Le T.
Published: January 2023

The effective combination between the magnetic thermia of the magnetic cores and the photothermal effect of the gold shell indicates hollow PMAO coated Fe3O4@Au hybrid nanoparticles as a potential material for efficient cancer theranostics.
Benzilbis(2-hydroxyanil) – highly efficient ligand for ferric ion (Fe3+) sensing
Authors: Joy Bony Pariyadan , Paul Sudeep , Manohar Basavaraju Gari , Gudimetla Vittal Babu
Published: January 2023

Benzilbis(2-hydroxyanil) was found to be an efficient and selective turn-on fluorophore for ferric ion (Fe3+) sensing.
Building dual-phased Ni2P–Ni2P4O12electrocatalysts for efficient urea oxidation reaction
Authors: Zhou Jiajia , Sun Xiujuan , Tan Wenjuan , Cao Qiuhan , Zhao Yongjie , Ding Rui , Zhang Yuwei , Liu Enhui , Gao Ping
Published: January 2023

Ni2P–Ni2P4O12structure with abundant mesopores demonstrates excellent catalytic activity toward alkaline urea electro-oxidation reaction.
Revisiting the manzamine biosynthetic hypothesis
Authors: Piwko Alexander T. , Miller Brian G. , Smith Joel M.
Published: January 2023

A re-evaluation of the biosynthetic hypothesis of the manzamine natural products is discussed. In addition to considering its unified origins with other marine alkaloids, several other plausible biosynthetic hypotheses are critically evaluated.
Mechanobiological modulation of blood–brain barrier permeability by laser stimulation of endothelial-targeted nanoparticles
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Cai Qi , Wilson Blake A. , Fan Hanwen , Dave Harsh , Giannotta Monica , Bachoo Robert , Qin Zhenpeng
Published: January 2023

Picosecond laser excitation of vascular-targeted gold nanoparticles activates multiple mechanobiological pathways in the endothelial cells and induces reversible blood–brain barrier opening.
A DNA origami-based device for investigating DNA bending proteins by transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Natarajan Ashwin Karthick , Ryssy Joonas , Kuzyk Anton
Published: January 2023

Using a reconfigurable DNA origami device, we study the bending of DNA by a bending protein. To this end, we used transmission electron microscopy to directly observe the structural reconfiguration of the origami devices caused by the protein.
Spin-photogalvanic effect in chiral lead halide perovskites
Authors: Pan Ruiheng , Tang Xiantong , Kan Lixuan , Li Yang , Yu Haomiao , Wang Kai
Published: January 2023

An exploration of the spin-photogalvanic effect for chiral lead halide perovskites. The effect originates from the coexistence of the Rashba spin orbit coupling and chiral-induced spin selectivity.
Small amounts of main group metal atoms matter: ultrathin Pd-based alloy nanowires enabling high activity and stability towards efficient oxygen reduction reaction and ethanol oxidation
Authors: Chen Qiaoli , Jin Hui , Cheng Tianchun , Wang Zhi , Ren Yaoyao , Tian Jinshu , Zhu Yihan
Published: January 2023

Alloyed Pd-main group metal (e.g.Bi, Sn, Pb) ultrathin nanowires are realized, showing significantly enhanced catalytic performance towards the oxygen reduction reaction by p–d hybridization.
Novel stereoisomeric lignin-derived polycarbonates: towards the creation of bisphenol polycarbonate mimics
Authors: Wu Xianyuan , Xu Dan , De bruyn Mario , Trimmel Gregor , Barta Katalin
Published: January 2023

We have described a family of bio-based and property-tunable polycarbonates (PC-MBC) based on the novel stereoisomeric lignin-derived aliphatic diol 4,4′-methylenebiscyclohexanol (MBC) that was sustainably sourced from lignin oxidation mixture.
Polymerization of α-olefins and their copolymerization with ethylene by half-sandwich scandium catalysts with an N-heterocyclic carbene ligand
Authors: Wang Yinran , Huang Lin , Hou Zhaomin , Guo Fang
Published: January 2023

By fine-tuning the ligand of half-sandwich scandium catalysts, the polymerization of α-olefins and their copolymerization with ethylene have been achieved, affording the corresponding polymers with high molecular weight and controllable composition.
Tris(4-azidophenyl)methanol – a novel and multifunctional thiol protecting group
Authors: Qiu Xujun , Brückel Julian , Zippel Christoph , Nieger Martin , Biedermann Frank , Bräse Stefan
Published: January 2023

The novel tris(4-azidophenyl)methanol, a multifunctionalizable aryl azide, is reported.
Electronic analysis of hydrogen-bonded molecular complexes: the case of DNA sensed in a functionalized nanogap
Authors: Maier Frank C. , Fyta Maria
Published: January 2023

Relative arrangements within a hybrid complex of a probe nanoparticle and a target biomolecule strongly control the quantum transport across a nanogap these are placed in.
Sustainable solvents for β-diketone extraction from wheat straw wax and their molecular self-assembly into nano-structured tubules for hydrophobic coatings
Authors: Noppawan Pakin , Sangon Suwiwat , Chatsiri Petcharaphorn , Khunmood Nutnicha , Aintharabunya Suphatta , Supanchaiyamat Nontipa , Hunt Andrew J.
Published: January 2023

2,2,5,5-Tetramethyloxolane (TMO) and 2,5-diethyl-2,5-dimethyloxolane (DEDMO) were utilized as sustainable solvents for β-diketone extraction and its molecular self-assembly into nano-structured tubules for hydrophobic coatings.
Polymer-based graphene composite molding: a review
Authors: Xu F. , Gao M. , Wang H. , Liu H. , Yan F. , Zhao H. , Yao Q.
Published: January 2023

Polymer-based graphene composite products with high mechanical properties, heat resistance, corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity are obtained by different molding technologies.
A syn outer-sphere oxidative addition: the reaction mechanism in Pd/Senphos-catalyzed carboboration of 1,3-enynes
Authors: Wang Ziyong , Lamine Walid , Miqueu Karinne , Liu Shih-Yuan
Published: January 2023

A combined experimental and computational study of Pd/Senphos-catalyzed carboboration of 1,3-enynes reveals a syn outer-sphere oxidative addition mechanism featuring a Pd-π-allyl intermediate followed by coordination-assisted rearrangements.
Assembling a high-performance asymmetric supercapacitor based on pseudocapacitive S-doped VSe2/CNT hybrid and 2D borocarbonitride nanosheets
Authors: K. A. Sree Raj , Pramoda K. , Rout Chandra Sekhar
Published: January 2023

High performance asymmetric supercapacitor assembled using the S-VSe2/CNT positrode and BCN negatrode.
Room-temperature sensing performance of binary Co–Zn doped MoS2/graphite composites toward ppb-level NO2
Authors: Fan Jin-Le , Hu Xue-Feng , Qin Wei-Wei , Zhou Ming , Liu Yan-Song , Cheng Sheng , Gao Shou-Jing , Tan Li-Ping , Wang Gui-Qiang , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2023

Schematic diagram of the sensing mechanism and typical performance of a binary Co–Zn/MG composite sensor.
Single-atom catalysts for electrochemical applications
Authors: Ren Shan , Cao Xi , Jiang Zinan , Yu Zijuan , Zhang Tingting , Wei Shaohui , Fan Qikui , Yang Jian , Mao Junjie , Wang Dingsheng
Published: January 2023

The advent of single-atom catalysts is expected to greatly accelerate electrocatalytic reaction kinetics, Owing to their maximum atomic efficiency, unique quantized energy level structure and strong interaction between well-defined active sites and supports.
Correction: Improved VRC-3R− model for bulk water residual chlorine decay in the UV/Cl2 process for a water distribution network
Authors: Wang Haipei , Wang Bing , Peng Yi , Crittenden John C. , Pan Haifeng , Wang Lixin
Published: January 2023

Correction for ‘Improved VRC-3R− model for bulk water residual chlorine decay in the UV/Cl2 process for a water distribution network’ by Haipei Wang et al., Environ. Sci.: Water Res. Technol., 2023, 9, 308–330, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EW00647B.
N–S bond cleavage of tosyl hydrazones by dual reactive arynes: synthesis of diaryl sulfones, spiro[indazole-3,3′-indolin]-2′-one, and N-phenyl sulfonohydrazides
Authors: Smile Suresh Snoxma , Shanmugam Ponnusamy
Published: January 2023

A one-pot N–S bond cleavage of tosyl hydrazones by arynes produced diaryl sulfones, diazomethyledenes of isatin or spiro[indazole-3,3′-indolin]-2-one and arynes and direct N-arylation products. A plausible reaction mechanism is provided.
Études de cas en alimentation des ruminants : ration à base maïs grain humide ou maïs épi pour taurillons
Authors: Enjalbert Francis
Published: January 2023

L’épi de maïs complet ainsi que le grain seul peuvent être ensilés et valorisés en engraissement de taurillons. Le risque d’acidose ruminale subaiguë exige une gestion précise en raison de la dégradabilité ruminale relativement élevée de leurs amidons.
Coronographier des étoiles en laboratoire… et découvrir des planètes
Authors: Baudoz Pierre
Published: January 2023

Éteindre une étoile, voilà une drôle d’idée ! C’est pourtant que ce que l’on propose aux étudiants avec cette expérience. L’objectif est de comprendre le principe du coronographe appliqué à l’observation de planètes extrasolaires. Avec un montage simple, on démontre comment atténuer optiquement la lumière d’une étoile sans modifier l’image d’une planète extrasolaire qui orbite autour de cette dernière.