bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Experimental and Multiphysics Simulations Study ofClostridium carboxidivoranssp. 624 for Acid and Alcohol Production in CO2/H2
Authors: Tiong Yong Wei , Yong Ashriel , Nalaparaju Anjaiah , Nguyen Hoang-Huy , Koh Li Quan , Wong Roong Jien , Yee Lim Ron Tau , Ow Dave Siak-Wei , Zhang Jia , Nguyen Van Bo , Wong Fong Tian , Lim Yee Hwee
Published: February 2025

Biotechnological advancements in carbon utilization, particularly CO2gas fermentation, present a sustainable alternative to energy-intensive chemical catalysis.Clostridium carboxidivoranssp. 624, a clostridial acetogen, employs the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway to fix CO2, producing valuable acids and alcohols. In this study, we systematically investigate the metabolic dynamics of CO2/H2fermentation, focusing on optimizing temperature and media conditions to enhance yield. Notably, batch fermentation at 25°C achieved the highest reported acetate concentration of 4.38 g/L, with butyrate and hexanoate detected at lower yields. To further optimize fermentation performance, we examined the impact of the liquid-to-gas volume ratio (VL/VG) on product distribution. Acetate remained dominant, while VL/VG= 4 enhanced longer-chain acid production, due to improved gas solubility and substrate bioavailability. The enriched liquid phase at VL/VG= 4 also drove higher total acid (5.341 g/L) and alcohol (0.411 g/L) production. Moreover, the acid-to- alcohol ratio was 13 for VL/VG= 4, promoting alcohol conversion, while a higher ratio of 18 for VL/VG= 1 maintained an acetogenic profile. To complement the experimental insights, a kinetic model coupled with 3D computational fluid dynamics simulations was developed to elucidate spatial inhomogeneity and its impact on reaction kinetics. This comparative analysis identified key optimized parameters, including maximum reaction rates, half-saturation concentrations, and inhibition rates, which serve as critical guidelines for enhancing fermentation performance. By leveraging real-time computational modelling to refine bioreactor design, this approach facilitates the transition toward scalable CO2bioprocessing. These findings advance of sustainable chemical manufacturing, reinforcing CO2bioconversion as a strategy for carbon-negative biotechnology.
Convergence of efficient and predictive coding in multimodal sensory processing
Authors: Tavoni Gaia
Published: February 2025

The existence of pathways connecting different sensory modalities in the brain challenges the traditional view of sensory systems as operating independently. However, the reasons and mechanisms underlying these interactions remain largely unknown, and no computational framework currently addresses these questions. We propose a theory of sensory processing in canonical circuits – networks of excitatory and inhibitory neurons ubiquitously found in the brain. Our theory incorporates cross-modal feedback and demonstrates that these networks can orchestrate precise mathematical computations through distinct circuit components. These computations generate neural codes that are simultaneously efficient and predictive, unifying two classical coding schemes. Our framework treats unimodal processing as a special case and accounts for olfactory-visual and auditory-somatosensory interactions observed in experiments, while offering new predictions about the role of neural feedback in optimizing multimodal codes. By bridging normative theories of sensory coding, this study provides insights into the principles governing interactions between the senses.
Predicting input signals of transcription factors inEscherichia colithrough metabolomics and transcriptomics
Authors: Trouillon Julian , Huber Alexandra E. , Trabesinger Yannik , Sauer Uwe
Published: February 2025

The activity of bacterial transcription factors (TFs) is typically modulated through direct interactions with small molecules. However, these input signals remain unknown for most TFs, even in well-studied model bacteria. Identifying these signals typically requires tedious experiments for each TF. Here, we develop a systematic workflow for the identification of TF input signals in bacteria based on metabolomics and transcriptomics data. We inferred the activity of 173 TFs from published transcriptomics data and determined the abundance of 279 metabolites across 40 matched experimental conditions inEscherichia coli. By correlating TF activities with metabolites abundances, we successfully identified previously known TF-metabolite interactions and predicted novel TF effector metabolites for 41 TFs. To validate our predictions, we conductedin vitroassays and confirmed a predicted effector metabolite for LeuO. As a result, we established a network of 80 regulatory interactions between 71 metabolites and 41E. coliTFs. This network includes 76 novel interactions that encompass a diverse range of chemical classes and regulatory patterns, bringing us closer to a comprehensive TF regulatory network inE. coli.
When Not to Kill Your Host in Competitive Bust-Boom Environments
Authors: Lund Oskar Struer , Sneppen Kim
Published: February 2025

Temperate phages, which can either kill their host cells or integrate into them, struggle to compete with purely virulent phages in environments with plenty of available hosts. This suggests that their survival strategy is fine-tuned for unstable conditions, where they hedge their bets between immediate replication and long-term persistence as an integrated prophage. In this study, we explored how temperate phages make these life-or-death decisions, both in isolation and when competing with other phages. We found that when temperate phages compete with each other, those with relatively stable lysogens survive better. Environments with competitive temperate phages further select for lower lysogeny frequency. Our findings suggest that dosage-dependent lysogeny choice is adapted to competing phages with overlapping immunity. In environments where phages can disperse between separate sub-systems that fluctuate independently, temperate phages struggle to survive against virulent phages.
Lamin B loss in nuclear blebs is rupture dependent while increased DNA damage is rupture independent
Authors: Chu Catherine G. , Lang Nick , Walsh Erin , Zheng Mindy D. , Manning Gianna , Shalin Kiruba , Cunha Lyssa M. , Faucon Kate E. , Kam Nicholas , Folan Sara N. , Desai Arav P. , Naughton Emily , Abreu Jaylynn , Carson Alexis M. , Wald Zachary L , Khvorova-Wolfson Dasha , Phan Leena , Lee Hannah , Pho Mai , Prince Kelsey , Dorfman Katherine , Bahiru Michael Seifu , Stephens Andrew D.
Published: February 2025

The nucleus houses genetic information and functions separate from the rest of the cell. Loss of nuclear shape results in nuclear ruptures. Nuclear blebs are deformations identified by decreased DNA density, while lamin B levels vary drastically. To determine if decreased lamin B levels are due to nuclear rupture, we used immunofluorescence to measure levels of lamin B and emerin, a nuclear envelope protein that enriches to sites of nuclear rupture. We observed that cell types that exhibit decreased levels of lamin B also show an enrichment of emerin in nuclear blebs. Oppositely, in other cell types, nuclear blebs display maintained levels of lamin B1 and showed no emerin enrichment. To determine how nuclear rupture affects DNA damage, we time lapse imaged nuclear rupture dynamics then fixed the same cells to conduct immunofluorescence of γH2AX and emerin. We find that DNA damage levels are higher in blebbed nuclei independent of nuclear rupture. Thus, we confirm that lamin B1 loss in nuclear blebs is due to nuclear rupture and blebbed nuclei have increased DNA damage that is independent of rupture.

Summary statement (180-200 characters):We measured lamin B and DNA damage in blebbed nuclei to determine the effect of nuclear rupture. We find that nuclear rupture causes loss of lamin B in nuclear blebs but that increased DNA damage in blebbed nuclei is independent of rupture.
A computational architecture incorporating shallow brain networks: integrating parallel cortical and subcortical processing
Authors: Lee Kwangjun , Baracco Lorenzo , Pennartz Cyriel M. A. , Suzuki Mototaka , Mejias Jorge F.
Published: February 2025

Artificial neural networks commonly have deep hierarchical structures that were originally inspired by the neuroanatomical evidence of cortico-cortical connectivity pattern found in the mammalian brain. Largely neglected in those models are non-hierarchical aspects of brain architecture, namely the subcortical pathways and the interactions between cortical and subcortical areas regardless of their hierarchical locations. Inspired by this principle, we present a computational model combining cortical hierarchical processing with subcortical pathways based on neuroanatomical evidence. We show the versatility of our model by implementing the cortical hierarchy in two alternative ways—a convolutional feedforward network and a predictive coding network. Both model variants can replicate behavioral observations in humans and monkeys on a perceptual context-dependent decision-making task. The model also reveals that subcortical structures lead decisions for easy trials while the more complex hierarchical network is necessary for the harder trials. Our results suggest that the parallel cortico-subcortical processing explored in the model represents a fundamental property that cannot be neglected in understanding the computational principles used by the brain.

Significance

Artificial intelligence and computational neuroscience models, particularly deep learning and predictive coding architectures, have been traditionally dominated by cortico-centric hierarchical frameworks. However, extensive neurobiological evidence suggests that cortical areas, regardless of their hierarchical classification, are deeply interconnected with subcortical structures in real brains. We propose here a computational framework demonstrating that parallel cortical-subcortical architectures can yield complex and more flexible computational capabilities, aligning with the observed behavior in the mammalian brain. Our model addresses key limitations in existing deep learning and predictive coding networks, offering a more biologically plausible and functionally advantageous alternative.
Enteric neural crest development inAstyanax mexicanussurface fish and cavefish
Authors: Perera Pavani Ponnimbaduge , Webster Kaitlyn , Riddle Misty R
Published: February 2025

The enteric nervous system (ENS) regulates gastrointestinal (GI) functions such as secretion, blood flow, and motility, yet how its structure and function evolve with dietary adaptations remains unclear.Astyanax mexicanus, a teleost fish with surface and cave morphotypes, offers a model to explore these changes; cavefish exhibit altered GI motility and transit that may help them adapt to their unique diet. We compared early ENS development in surface fish and cavefish, tracking enteric neural crest cell (ENCC) migration and differentiation usingphox2bband HuC/D markers. We found that ENCCs reach the gut by 36 hours post-fertilization (hpf) in both morphotypes but migrate and differentiate more rapidly along the gut tube in cavefish. To explore the genetic basis of this difference, we used available genomic datasets to compare the predicted peptide sequences of genes important for ENS development in other species and identified mutations that could impact protein function, for example in the endothelin signaling genes important for ENCC migration and differentiation. We specifically examined the expression ofendothelin-3 (edn3)andendothelin receptor-b (ednrb)during ENCC migration and found that the localization ofedn3, but notednrb, is consistent with a role in ENS development. Overall, our findings positionA. mexicanusas a model for studying evolution of ENS development.
Activity Protects Spinal Premotor Interneurons from Microglial Phagocytosis and Transneuronal Degeneration After Corticospinal Injury
Authors: Pathan Jasmine , Amer Alzahraa , Yoshida Yutaka , Martin John H.
Published: February 2025

Spinal premotor circuits play a fundamental role in motor control. The corticospinal tract (CST) provides control signals to premotor circuits in the spinal cord, guiding voluntary skilled movements. Unilateral selective lesion of the CST in the medullary pyramidal tract (PTX) produces transneuronal degeneration, whereby Choline Acetyltransferase-positive (ChAT) premotor interneurons contralesionally undergo non-apoptotic degeneration by microglial phagocytosis. Evidence shows that transneuronal degeneration has an activity dependence: MCX inactivation produces transneuronal degeneration and spinal DC neuromodulation after PTX ameliorates it. This study expands our understanding of transneuronal degeneration mechanisms by examining the activity-dependence of degeneration vulnerability and the implications for motor recovery in a mouse model of a complete CST lesion model (bilateral PTX). We address four key unanswered questions: Are Chx10 (VGlut2) interneurons, the largest spinal interneuron class to receive direct synaptic connections from the CST vulnerable to transneuronal degeneration after CST loss; using DREADD neuromodulation, what are effective sources of presynaptic activation for protecting spinal premotor interneurons after CST loss; how are ameliorating transneuronal interneuron degeneration and reducing microglial activation associated; and does effective rescue of interneuron degeneration rescue grip strength after injury? Transneuronal degeneration is a pervasive pathophysiological change injury; CST lesion produces significant Chx10 interneuron loss. Multiple sources of neuronal DREADD activation—motor cortex, reticular formation, and spinal interneurons—are effective in ameliorating transneuronal degeneration. Interneuron rescue is strongly associated with ameliorating inflammation, showing potential causality between interneuron degeneration and inflammation after CST lesion. Finally, rescuing spinal interneurons was associated with restoring function. Our findings demonstrate the interplay between neuronal activity, microglia actions mediating transneuronal degeneration, and motor recovery following CNS injury.
A piece of evidence for pathogenesis of cerebral small vessel disease caused by blood-brain barrier dysfunction —— Based on the STRIVE-2 imaging features
Authors: Yang Yi , Ma Huide , Liu Bowei , Wu Rong , Sun Sujuan , Li Xia , He Yu , Wang Shumin
Published: February 2025

Background

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction caused by endothelial cell injury is one of the widely accepted pathogenesis of small cerebral vessel disease (CSVD). However, the early microcirculation studies were notably deficient in providing compelling imaging evidence, which has hampered a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological processes underlying BBB dysfunction in CSVD. The onset of CSVD is insidious and the clinical manifestations are diverse, diagnosis of CSVD relies primarily on neuroimaging information currently. These MRI imaging features mainly represent the end-stage brain parenchyma injury, rather than the vascular lesion itself. Therefore, clarifying the pathophysiological processes related to cerebral microcirculation in CSVD is of great significance for early treatment intervention of CSVD.

Methods

Twenty rats were used to prepare CSVD animal model by ultrasound combined with ultrasonic microbubble contrast agent. MRI, functional ultrasound (fUS) imaging and ultrasound localization microscopy (ULM) were used to evaluate microcirculation changes in acute and chronic models.

Results

Currently, our research has successfully validated that the imaging characteristics of this model align with the four established criteria outlined in the STRIVE-2 classification. FUS shows increased microflow velocity in the molding area, which can be used for initial evaluation of CSVD models in the acute phase. ULM has revealed a progressive reduction in the density of both the short cortical arteries and the long medullary arteries, along with their respective branches, over time. Concurrently, there has been a noted deviation in blood flow velocity.

Conclusion

This model offers compelling evidence at the microvascular level, suggesting that blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is a central pathophysiological mechanism in the etiology of CSVD. Then it provides a straightforward, efficient, and widely applicable tool and continuous monitoring method for the further investigation of CSVD from the macroscopic to the microscopic circulation level, with significant long-term implications for CSVD diagnosis and treatment.
Lactate metabolic coupling between the endplates and nucleus pulposus via MCT1 is essential for intervertebral disc health
Authors: Tsingas Maria , Tsingas Konstantinos , Zhang Wujuan , Goldman Aaron R. , Risbud Makarand V.
Published: February 2025

During skeletal growth, there is an increased secretion of lactate by glycolytic nucleus pulposus (NP) cells of the intervertebral disc. To investigate the role of this anion, we generated annulus fibrosus (AF) and endplate (EP) specificMct1cKO(Slc16a1Col2CreERT2) mice. Histological and spatial transcriptomic studies indicated significant disc degeneration inMct1cKO, characterized by NP cell loss and delayed EP maturation. Metabolic assays showed that while AF and EP cells were glycolytic, EP chondrocytes readily metabolized lactate. In EP cells, lactate promoted protein, and H3K18 lactylation, implying epigenetic programming. These findings suggest that NP-derived lactate promotes EP cartilage transdifferentiation into the subchondral bone, and in its absence, continued glucose consumption by the persistent EP cartilage reduces glucose availability to the NP and AF likely contributing to tissue degeneration. This study provides the firstin vivoevidence that metabolic coupling between NP and EP cells is essential for disc growth and health.
Unraveling the Neurocognitive Mechanisms of Delayed Punishment in Second-and Third-Party Contexts
Authors: Huang Jiamin , He Yuwen , Chen Zejian , Cai Qianwei , Yao Yantong , Wang Yuanchen , Qi Yanyan , Wu Haiyan
Published: February 2025

Second-party punishment (SPP) and third-party punishment (TPP) are essential in regulating social behavior and maintaining social norms, yet the effectiveness may wane when punishment is delayed. Currently, the decision-making and neural mechanisms underlying SPP and TPP under temporal delays remain largely unexplored. This study investigated both SPP and TPP punishment decisions with time-delay (immediate vs. delayed) using a hypothetical criminal scenario assessment task with fMRI. Results showed increased activity in the bilateral precuneus and left temporoparietal junction (TPJ) and stronger left TPJ-dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) connectivity in SPP compared to TPP. Interestingly, third-parties imposed more severe punishment in delayed conditions than in immediate ones, accompanied by enhanced neural activity in dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC), left TPJ, ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC), ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), and caudate nucleus. This delay effect was evident only in misdemeanor and felony cases, with no differences in capital offenses, suggesting a moderating effect of criminal severity. In contrast, SPP showed no significant changes in punishment or neural response across immediate and delayed conditions. Multivariate pattern analysis further indicated that dmPFC, TPJ, vlPFC, vmPFC and caudate function together to encode punishment severity in TPP contexts, a pattern not observed in SPP. These findings underscore distinct decision-making mechanisms between SPP and TPP under temporal delays, with implications for understanding justice-related processing in the human brain under time constraints.

Significance statement

Within the justice system, punishing norm violators is often hindered when they flee, resulting in delayed punishments. However, little is known about how second-party (SPP) and third-party (TPP) implement punishment with time delays. The current study investigated this using real criminal scenarios with time delays under fMRI scanning. We found that third parties imposed more severe punishment on defendants in delayed conditions than in immediate ones, reflected by enhanced neural activity in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, left temporoparietal junction, ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and caudate nucleus. In contrast, no significant differences were observed in second-party punishment. We also found a moderating effect of criminal severity: the difference between immediate and delayed sanctions by third-parties was present in misdemeanor and felony cases but not in capital offenses. These results shed light on the decision-making mechanisms of SPP and TPP in contexts involving temporal delay, which may have deep impact in different disciplines, e.g., social science, cognitive neuroscience and legal system.
What do neural travelling waves tell us about information flow?
Authors: Alamia Andrea , Grimaldi Antoine , Chavane Frederic , Vinck Martin
Published: February 2025

In many behavioral conditions, neural activity propagates within and across brain regions as traveling waves, revealing the importance of analyzing spatiotemporal dynamics in electrophysiological data. Most methods quantify such propagation by measuring spatial phase gradients, i.e., monotonic and ordered phase changes through space. Here, we demonstrate that the phase ordering in travelling waves is insufficient to determine the effective flow of information unambiguously. We demonstrate that, in some specific cases, the phase gradient indicates information propagation in the opposite direction than indicated by methods for causal inference. Using autoregressive modeling, we further show that such a discrepancy between the effective waves and the apparent waves measured via phase-based methods can, for example, be predicted by the sign of the projection from the lower to the higher nodes in the hierarchy. Together with an input signal in the lowest node, inhibitory bottom-up connections produce apparent waves propagating in the opposite, top-down direction. As a methodological solution, we show that Granger causality analysis can recover the information flow and its underlying causal structure, which can be used to disambiguate the “effective” flow.
Concurrent selection of internal goals and external sensations during visual search
Authors: Liu Baiwei , van Ede Freek
Published: February 2025

Flexible goal-directed behaviour relies on the selective processing of internal goal representations and external sensations. Yet, internal and external selection processes have classically been studied in isolation, leaving us in the dark how internal and external selection processes are coordinated in time to support behaviour. To address this, we developed a novel visual-search task in which we could simultaneously track selection among internal search goals held in working memory and external search targets in the environment. Capitalising on sensitive gaze and neural markers of internal and external visual selection, we provide proof-of-principle evidence in humans that internal and external selection processes do not necessarily take turns in a strictly serial manner, but can develop concurrently. We further show how concurrent internal and external selection processes are associated with largely non-overlapping neural activity patterns in the human brain, and how these processes can be performed effectively even when engaging opposite spatial locations in working memory and perception. These findings challenge views portraying brain states as being either internally or externally focused and bring new insight into how internal and external selection processes work together to yield efficient search behaviour.
Ketogenic interventions prevent alterations of the gut microbiome in transgenic Alzheimer’s Disease mice
Authors: M’Bra Paule E. H. , Avino Mariano , Lim Evelyne Ng Kwan , Mayhue Marian , Balthazar Philippe , Aumont Anne , Prévost Karine , Massé Eric , Fernandes Karl J.L.
Published: February 2025

Alterations in the gut microbiome constitute a feature of aging and therefore represent a therapeutic target for aging-related diseases. In this study, we investigated the impact of ketogenic interventions on the microbiome of mice genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AD mice exhibited several microbial alterations, notably increased levels ofBifidobacteriumand decreased levels ofBacteroidetes.Ketogenic interventions, either a medium-chain triglyceride-enriched diet (MCT) or carbohydrate-free high-fat diet (CFHF), administered for 1 month restored the levels of more than 50% of the bacteria altered in AD mice, including a strong reduction inBifidobacteriumlevels. Ketogenic interventions induced a shift in the gut microbiome associated with increased levels of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, such asLachnospiraceaeandMuribaculaceae.MCT and CFHF also triggered diet-specific microbial changes, which may contribute to the distinct physiological effects of these diets. In conclusion, ketogenic interventions may influence AD pathophysiology by modulating the gut microbiome.
Surface states and the robustness of charge density wave order in
LaTe2
Authors: Louat Alex , Cacho Cephise , Watson Matthew D.
Published: February 2025

Rare-earth tellurides present unique opportunities to explore the interplay between charge density waves (CDWs) and electronic structure in quasi-two-dimensional systems. Unlike their van der Waals counterparts, the rare-earth tritellurides, ditellurides such as LaTe2 feature distinct polar surfaces and Fermi-surface nesting properties. In this paper, we investigate the electronic band structure of LaTe2, distinguishing the surface states from the bulk bands, and enabling the study of the impact of band filling on CDW stability. We uncover the intricate dependence of CDW formation on the electronic environment and highlight the robustness of the CDW order against variations in band filling. The results provide insights into the complex relationship between electronic structure and CDW formation in this class of materials.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Angular momentum effects in neutron decay
Authors: Pavlov I. , Chaikovskaia A. , Karlovets D.
Published: February 2025

We investigate the intriguing phenomenon of beta decay of a free neutron in a non-plane-wave (structured) state. Our analysis covers three types of states: unpolarized vortex (Bessel) neutrons that possess nonzero orbital angular momentum (OAM), Laguerre-Gaussian wave packets, and spin-correlated OAM (spin-orbit) states characterized by unique polarization patterns. These states are of particular interest as they have recently been generated in neutron optics experiments and have promising applications in studies of quantum magnetic materials. The spectral-angular distributions (SAD) of the emitted electrons and protons are examined. We show that the high sensitivity of the protons' SAD to the structure of the neutron wave packet can be used as a tool to extract the distinctive features of the non-plane-wave neutron states. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the angular distribution of the emitted particles serves as a reflection of the spatial symmetries inherent to the neutron wave packet.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Unraveling Temperature-Induced Vacancy Clustering in Tungsten: From Direct Microscopy to Atomistic Insights via Data-Driven Bayesian Sampling
Authors: Zhong Anruo , Lapointe Clovis , Goryaeva Alexandra M. , Arakawa Kazuto , Athènes Manuel , Marinica Mihai-Cosmin
Published: February 2025

The evolution of the microstructure of materials is primarily governed by defect-mediated diffusion. Here, we examine the intriguing role played by vacancies in tungsten, a strategic metal for high-temperature fusion-energy systems. We address the existing apparent contradictions between experimental observations indicating the presence of voids and theoretical predictions of vacancy self-repulsion by employing both experimental and theoretical methods. We have designed a transmission-electron-microscopy experiment and developed a theoretical data-driven approach using the Bayesian adaptive biasing force method to investigate the finite-temperature properties of mono- and di-vacancies and characterize their relative stability via their formation free energies. Our investigation reveals that di-vacancies are energetically unfavorable at low temperatures but stabilize entropically as the temperature increases. This result is entirely consistent with experimental observations of the clustering of quenched-in vacancies in tungsten during reannealing treatments at intermediate temperatures. This work provides critical insights into the temperature-dependent stability of defects, bridging the gap between theoretical predictions and experimental observations, with significant implications for the design and optimization of high-temperature materials for fusion.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Crystal structure of a short-chain dehydrogenase from Burkholderia cenocepacia J2315 in complex with NADP+ and benzoic acid. Corrigendum
Authors: Belfon Kafi K. J. , Beyer Olive , Abendroth Jan , Dranow David M. , Lorimer Donald D. , Abramov Ariel , Latimore Yazmine , Hamilton Connor , Dawkins Aniah , Hinojosa Isabella , Martinez Xavier , Mirabal Sofia de Lourdes , Duncan Miriam , Womack Reagan , Hicks Lillian , Turlington Zachary R. , Edwards Thomas E. , Torelli Andrew T. , Hicks Katherine A. , French Jarrod B.
Published: February 2025

The name of one of the authors in the article by Belfon et al. [(2024), Acta Cryst. F80, 348–355] is corrected.
The Gender Gap in Economic and Financial Literacy: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Haag Lucy , Brahm Taiga
Published: February 2025

Economic and financial literacy are crucial for both adults and adolescents due to their demonstrated impact on financial behavior, wealth accumulation, and retirement planning. However, studies indicate that financial literacy remains alarmingly low, especially among women. This disparity raises significant concerns about gender inequality in financial decision‐making and overall well‐being. This systematic literature review examines international research on the gender gap in economic and financial literacy and explores explanatory factors contributing to this gap. Applying the TCCM framework, we analyze 97 papers, including 185 individual studies. Findings confirm a gender gap favoring males across age groups and global contexts. Notably, the gap seems more pronounced in developed countries. Frequently reported explanatory factors are explored, including individuals' socialization, confidence, and computational skills, yet substantial parts of the gender gap remain unexplained by previous literature. Overall, this review contributes to the literature by providing a systematic overview of gender differences in economic and financial literacy and potential explanations.
Factors Affecting Collaboration of Intern Nurses With Patient Relatives in Psychiatry Clinic: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Tatu Merve Kızılırmak , Ercan Feride , Demir Satı
Published: February 2025

Background

Psychiatric nursing internship practice aims to deliver nursing care to the individual with a mental disorder and his/her family and to fulfil all steps of the nursing process.

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the factors affecting the collaboration of intern nurses with relatives of psychiatric patients.

Methods

The research was conducted as a descriptive qualitative research design. Participants consisted of 17 intern nurses. A semi‐structured interview form was used. The data analysed by the content analysis method in accordance with Guba and Lincoln's criteria of credibility, dependability, confirmability and transferability. COREQ checklist was used as a basis for planning and reporting the research.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 21.29 ± 0.77 and 12 of them (70.5%) were female. The results of the study indicated three themes regarding the perceptions of intern nurses. The themes related to perceptions of intern nurses about collaboration with patients' relatives were as follows: ‘individual and environmental characteristics that are effective in collaborating with patient relatives’, ‘effective nursing practices in collaboration with patient relatives’ and ‘possible results of collaboration with patient relatives’.

Conclusions

Intern nurses stated that the effective factors in working with patient relatives were the patient's symptoms and relationship with the family from the patient's perspective and views on illness and treatment, exposure to social stigma from the patients' relatives perspective. They stated that the nurse's communication skills and workload can be effective in working with patient relatives. Intern nurses expressed that information and education practices were important tools in collaboration with the patient relatives. It has been stated that collaboration with the patient relatives will provide possible desired results such as patient compliance with the treatment process, increased well‐being, strengthening coping skills in the patient relatives and reducing caregiver burden, and providing job satisfaction and satisfaction for the nurse.
HalALMT1 mediates malate efflux in the cortex of mature cluster rootlets of Hakea laurina, occurring naturally in severely phosphorus‐impoverished soil
Authors: Yamada Hirotsuna , Bunthara Lydia Ratna , Tanaka Akira , Kohama Takuro , Maruyama Hayato , Tanaka Wakana , Nishida Sho , Tantriani  , Oikawa Akira , Tawaraya Keitaro , Watanabe Toshihiro , Liu Shu Tong , Finnegan Patrick M. , Lambers Hans , Sasaki Takayuki , Wasaki Jun
Published: February 2025

Hakea laurina, a woody Proteaceae, naturally occurs in severely phosphorus (P)‐impoverished habitats in southwest Australia. It develops distinctive cluster roots that exhibit a high capacity for carboxylate exudation and acid phosphatase activity, contributing to its P acquisition. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these physiological functions remain poorly understood.

We explored the cluster‐root transcriptome using de novo RNA‐Seq and identified Hakea laurina Aluminum‐activated Malate Transporter 1 (HalALMT1), encoding an aluminum (Al)‐activated malate transporter induced in mature cluster roots. We characterized HalALMT1 through electrophysiological assays and overexpression in Arabidopsis thaliana, and localized HalALMT1 expression, acid phosphatase activity, and suberized boundaries in cluster roots.

Differentially expressed genes highlighted multiple increased carboxylate‐related processes at cluster‐root maturity. HalALMT1 released malate, an activity further enhanced by exposure to Al3+. Notably, HalALMT1 was specifically expressed in mature cortex cells of cluster rootlets, which lack a suberized exodermis. Acid phosphatase activity was pronounced throughout the cluster rootlets, unlike in noncluster roots where it was limited to the epidermis and stele.

Substantial malate release and acid phosphatase activity in the cortex cells in cluster rootlets, which lack a suberized exodermis, allowed massive exudation. This study sheds light on an exquisite P‐acquisition strategy of Proteaceae, enabling survival under extremely low P availability.
La influencia del consumo de alcohol en el aumento de la adicción al juego en universitarios y universitarias
Authors: Novoa Iago , Regueiro Bibiana
Published: February 2025

El objetivo del presente estudio es analizar si existen relaciones estadísticamente significativas entre el consumo de alcohol y el incremento en el juego de azar en estudiantes universitarios. Se evaluó, en forma de variables, la cantidad y la frecuencia de consumo de alcohol y la cantidad y frecuencia de participación en el juego en una muestra de 245 participantes pertenecientes a varios centros universitarios. Se recogieron los datos mediante la “Encuesta sobre Alcohol y Drogas en España 2017 (EDADES)” y el análisis se llevó a cabo mediante el estudio de las correlaciones bivariadas entre las variables anteriores. En cuanto a los resultados, se obtuvieron relaciones estadísticamente significativas entre las variables estudiadas, es decir, un cambio en una de las variables permite predecir un cambio en la otra, y viceversa. Con eso, se evidencia la correlación existente entre las numerosas adicciones, lo que resalta la necesidad de crear programas de sensibilización y prevención del consumo de drogas entre jóvenes universitarios.
Nonlinear System Identification with Gaussian Processes Using Laguerre and Kautz Filters
Authors: Illg Christopher , Balar Nishilkumar , Nelles Oliver
Published: February 2025

System identification can be used to determine data driven mathematical models of dynamic processes. For nonlinear processes, model architectures that are as flexible as possible are required. One possibility is to utilize Gaussian processes (GPs) as a universal approximator with an external dynamics realization, leading to highly flexible models. Novel Laguerre and Kautz filter based dynamics realizations in GP models are proposed. The Laguerre/Kautz pole(s) are treated as hyperparameters with the GPs' standard hyperparameter for the SEARD kernel. The two novel dynamics realizations in GP models are compared to different state-of-the-art dynamics realizations such as finite impulse response (FIR) or autoregressive with exogenous input (ARX). The big data case is handled via support points. Using Laguerre and Kautz regressor spaces allows both the dimensionality of the regressor space to be kept small and achieve superior performance. This is demonstrated through numerical examples and measured benchmark data of a Wiener-Hammerstein process.
Effects of Injector Layout on Mixture Formation for a Two-stroke Semi-Direct Injection Kerosene Piston Engine
Authors: Liu Rui , Liu Siyu , Xue Shen , Li Songhong , Li Jing , Ma Jie
Published: February 2025

Traditional two-stroke piston engines encounter fuel short-circuiting issues, which result in low fuel efficiency and relatively poor emissions performance. The higher viscosity and lower volatility of heavy fuel contributes to increased fuel consumption and poorer emissions as utilized in these engines. This study explored the potential of multi-injector configurations in fuel atomization and evaporation, with a particular focus on semi-direct injection technology. The configurations that were presented include a dual-injector configuration for the main scavenging ports and a triple-injector configuration for both the main and auxiliary scavenging ports, which were compared to a single-injector configuration in the auxiliary scavenging port. Additionally, different fuel supply ratios for the triple-injector configuration were investigated in the study. A 3-D numerical computational model for a semi-direct injection engine was established to analyze the formation process and distribution of fuel atomization and air-fuel mixture under full load at an engine speed of 6000 r/min. Research indicates that locating the fuel injector closer to the scavenging port can effectively reduce fuel film formation and enhance the vaporization rate while maintaining a relatively high fuel capture rate, thereby leading to a uniform distribution of the air-fuel mixture. At a spray angle of 50°, the fuel gasification rate of liquid fuel is remarkably enhanced, attaining a value of 81.6%. Meanwhile, increasing the number of injectors reduces fuel loss and enhances both fuel vaporization and mixture uniformity. The fuel supply ratio of 1:1:1 in the triple-injector configuration for the main and auxiliary scavenging ports is more conducive to fuel atomization and evaporation.
Objective Moiré Patterns
Authors: Feng Fan
Published: February 2025

Moiré patterns, typically formed by overlaying two layers of two-dimensional materials, exhibit an effective long-range periodicity that depends on the short-range periodicity of each layer and their spatial misalignment. Here, we study moiré patterns in objective structures with symmetries different from those in conventional patterns such as twisted bilayer graphene. Specifically, the mathematical descriptions for ring patterns, 2D Bravais lattice patterns, and helical patterns are derived analytically as representative examples of objective moiré patterns, using an augmented Fourier approach. Our findings reveal that the objective moiré patterns retain the symmetries of their original structures but with different parameters. In addition, we present a non-objective case, conformal moiré patterns, to demonstrate the versatility of this approach. We hope this geometric framework will provide insights for solving more complex moiré patterns and facilitate the application of moiré patterns in X-ray diffractions, wave manipulations, molecular dynamics, and other fields.
Two different sulfotransferases modify sugars of the N-linked tetrasaccharide decorating
Halobacterium salinarum
glycoproteins
Authors: Zaretsky Marianna , Vershinin Zlata , Erez Lihi , Grossman-Haham Iris , Eichler Jerry
Published: February 2025

Despite providing the first example of archaeal N-glycosylation almost 50 years ago, detailed insight into the pathway used by
Halobacterium salinarum
to assemble and attach an N-linked tetrasaccharide decorating glycoproteins in this haloarchaea has only recently appeared. Still, numerous components of this pathway remain to be identified, including sulfotransferase(s), which modify the third and fourth tetrasaccharide sugars. In the present report, a series of bioinformatics, genetic, biochemical, and structural approaches served to reveal how membrane-associated VNG1056C and soluble VNG1057C respectively sulfate the iduronic acid at tetrasaccharide position three and the terminal glucuronic acid, seemingly independent of each other. Deletion of
VNG1056C
but not of
VNG1057C
reduced cell motility to a minor degree and did not cause archaellum filament bundling. Finally, transcription of
VNG1056C
or
VNG1057C
was augmented upon deletion of the other when cells were grown in low but not high salinity conditions possibly in an attempt to compensate for the loss of sugar sulfation resulting from the deletion. This augmented transcription, however, had no effect on the extent of tetrasaccharide sulfation. With demonstrated roles in
Hbt. salinarum
N-glycosylation, VNG1056C and VNG1057C were respectively re-annotated as Agl30 and Agl31, employing the nomenclature used to define archaeal N-glycosylation pathway components.

IMPORTANCE

Like essentially all Archaea, the halophile
Halobacterium salinarum
performs N-glycosylation, namely, the covalent attachment of a glycan moiety to select asparagine residues in a target protein. Moreover,
Hbt. salinarum
represents one of the few current archaeal examples in which the pathway of N-glycosylation has been largely defined. Still, several components of this pathway remain to be defined, including the sulfotransferase(s) responsible for modifying the iduronic acid and glucuronic acid corresponding to the third and final sugars of the N-linked tetrasaccharide that decorates glycoproteins in this haloarchaeon. In the present report, a series of bioinformatics, genetic, biochemical, and structural approaches served to reveal how membrane-associated VNG1056C and soluble VNG1057C respectively sulfate the iduronic acid at tetrasaccharide position three and the terminal glucuronic acid, seemingly independent of each other. The need for two different enzymes reflects the sulfation of these sugars at distinct positions.
Engineering of CD8
+
T cells with an HIV-specific synthetic notch receptor to secrete broadly therapeutic antibodies for combining antiviral humoral and cellular immune responses
Authors: Meng Lina , Zhao Haichi , Chang Shangkun , Li Weiting , Tian Yinghui , Wang Ruihong , Wang Libian , Gu Tiejun , Wu Jiaxin , Yu Bin , Wang Chu , Yu Xianghui
Published: February 2025

The application of immunotherapeutic strategies, such as chimeric antigen receptor-T cells and broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs), for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is hindered by the latent reservoirs and viral escape. Achieving long-term control of viral load in the absence of antiretroviral therapy requires a combination approach utilizing these immunotherapeutic strategies. For this purpose, we developed novel anti-HIV-1 synthetic Notch (synNotch) receptor-T cells, termed CD4-17b-VN, which express both a bNAb (VRC01) and a bispecific T cell-engaging protein (N6-αCD3) with antigenic control. The synNotch receptor-expressing cells can sense the viral antigen presented on both HIV-1 particles and the surface of target cells. A human T cell line equipped with the CD4-17b-VN circuit could effectively control VRC01 and N6-αCD3 secretion upon sensitization, suppress the infection of diverse subtypes of HIV-1 strains, and mediate specific bypass cytotoxic activity against infected and latency-reactivated cells. Additionally, CD4-17b-VN CD8
+
T cells exhibited long-lasting suppression of infected cells and stronger killing effect on latency-reactivated cells
in vitro
. Importantly, we demonstrated that the synNotch receptor did not increase susceptibility to HIV-1 infection in the engineered cells. Our study validates the concept of a synNotch platform-based T cell therapeutic approach that can deliver broadly therapeutic antibodies in an HIV-1 antigen-controlled manner, which may have important implications for the functional cure of AIDS.

IMPORTANCE

Adoptive transfer of effector T cells modified with a chimeric antigen receptor has been proposed as an applicable approach to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The synNotch receptor (SNR) system serves as a versatile tool, enabling customized programming of input and output functions in mammalian cells. Herein, we report a novel synNotch platform-based approach for T cell engineering targeting both cell-free particles and infected cells by coupling antibody neutralization with cytotoxicity. Our findings demonstrate that the engineered CD4-17b SNR enables controllable production of functional anti-HIV-1 broadly neutralizing antibody and bispecific T cell-engaging protein upon recognition of the viral particle and cell surface antigens by the bifunctional synNotch-T cells. Human primary CD8
+
T cells equipped with the bifunctional synNotch circuit CD4-17b-VN can effectively suppress long-term viral replication and reduce latency-reactivated cells
in vitro
, without the undesired risk of being infected by the virus, suggesting their potential candidacy for AIDS therapy with prospects for future clinical applications.