bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrochars as slow-release phosphorus fertilizers for enhancing corn and soybean growth in an agricultural soil
Authors: Khosravi Anahita , Yuan Yanfei , Liu Qiang , Zheng Hao , Hashemi Masoud , Tang Yuanzhi , Xing Baoshan
Published: January 2024

Hydrochars as carbonaceous amendments rich in porous structures and nutrients can be used as promising slow-release fertilizers and soil health amendments. Yet, the performance of hydrochars derived from different feedstocks in improving crop plant growth and soil phosphorus (P) availability is not well understood. Here, a batch of sewage sludge (SS) and chicken manure (CM) derived hydrochars (SSCs and CMCs) were produced at 125 and 225 °C (SS125/225 and CM125/225) to investigate their characteristics and performances in improving the seedling growth of two representative crops, soybean (Glycine max) and corn (Zea mays), as well as the P availability in an acidic agricultural soil in comparison with triple super phosphate (TSP), a conventional P fertilizer. Compared with CMCs, SSCs with more porous and rougher surfaces contained relatively lower contents of carbon (C; 32.3–33.3%), hydrogen (H; 3.9–4.69%), and potassium (K; 29.2–51 mg g−1), but higher contents of P (37.4–85.4%) and nitrogen (N; 2.26–4.9%), as well as more O-containing and N-containing functional groups. The impacts of hydrochars on soybean and corn growth showed distinct variations. The application of SSCs showed little effect on soybean growth (i.e., biomass, chlorophyl contents, and number of leaves), while CMCs significantly increased its total dry biomass by 23.2–66.2%. For corn, both SSCs and CMCs increased the total dry biomass by 32.8–92.4% and 21.8–69.7%, respectively, compared to those in the un-amended soils. In addition, compared with the higher temperature hydrochars (SS225 and CM225), the lower temperature ones (SS125 and CM125) increased the total dry biomass by 24.6% and 34.9% for soybean and 44.8% and 39.3% for corn, respectively. The significant improvement in crop growth by hydrochars was mainly due to the direct nutrient supply (particularly P) by the hydrochars, which was supported by the increased soil and shoot P concentrations. Moreover, hydrochar application led to a rise in soil water soluble P (WSP) levels. However, as time progressed, these levels fell due to the fixation and adsorption of P via precipitation, electrostatic attraction, and ion exchange on the hydrochars. Contrarily, TSP maintained persistently high soil WSP levels, increasing the leaching risk of P through the soil profile. Our results provide direct evidence for hydrochars as slow-release P fertilizers to enhance crop growth and production and give better insights for producing functionalized P-rich chars as an alternative to chemical P fertilizers to maintain sustainable agricultural production.

Graphical Abstract
Late-onset vitamin K deficiency bleeding: a preventable yet prevailing cause of intracranial hemorrhage in young infants—an ambispective descriptive study
Authors: Annadurai Aswini , Delhi Kumar C. G. , S. M. Praveen , Parameswaran Narayanan
Published: January 2024

Background

Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) may present as intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in young infants, which results in severe morbidity and mortality. This study aims to determine the clinical presentation, risk factors, and outcome of children with VKDB.

Methods

This was an ambispective descriptive study conducted from January 2015 to August 2023 in southern India. Infants from 8 days to 6 months of age, diagnosed as VKDB based on bleeding with elevated PIVKA (protein induced by vitamin K absence) and prolonged prothrombin time, which is rapidly corrected 24 h after administration of vitamin K, were included. Infants with bleeding due to other causes, such as inherited clotting factor deficiency, cholestasis, and sepsis, were excluded. A structured data collection proforma was used to collect data.

Results

Out of 62 cases, 28 were excluded due to various causes, and 34 were analyzed. The median age at symptom onset was 54 days, and males were 22 (64.7%). Term gestation was 25 (73.5%), and low birth weight was 13 (38.2%), and 8 (23.5%) required NICU admission. All received vitamin K prophylaxis at birth. Thirty-three (97%) were exclusively breastfed. The most common presenting complaints were poor activity and convulsion. A total of 97% of children had ICH, and 5 (14.7%) had skin bleed. Twenty-three (67.6%) infants had complete recovery, 6 (17.6%) had sequelae (2 had hemiparesis, 2 monoparesis, and 2 quadriplegia), and 5 (14.7%) children expired.

Conclusion

Vitamin K deficiency commonly presents as intracranial hemorrhage in infants. Exclusive breastfeeding is a significant risk factor for vitamin K deficiency, followed by low birth weight and prematurity.
GO BACK AND FETCH IT: BLACK RADICALISM AND MYTHIC SOLIDARITY IN …(IPHIGENIA)
Authors: Stephenson Danielle
Published: January 2024

It is difficult to watch …(Iphigenia) and not think of abolition. To bear witness to Wayne Shorter and esperanza spalding's opera is to experience the collision of classical and jazz idiom, the interruption of violent cycles, the emergence of liberation. Yet as much as …(Iphigenia) is a story of abolition, it is also a story about the staying powers of sacrifice and myth. Winds that turn the wheel of oppression are the same blessed winds that propel ships out to sea. Furthermore, the interruption of inexhaustible, parodic virgin sacrifice is framed by the bodily toil that results from rejecting that cycle. We might easily observe …(Iphigenia) as a retelling that moves myth forward, into the future. The last Iphigenia, of the Open Tense (performed by esperanza spalding), ultimately refuses her seemingly inevitable fate, retching out the words that might otherwise temporarily satisfy the whims of the bloodthirsty men around her. …(Iphigenia), however, is a piece ‘at war with itself’. Perhaps in this way more than any other, it is able to communicate the tenseless timelessness of the Black radical tradition. The cyclicity of oppressive violence is the same cyclicity that dissolves artifice, the same cyclicity that produces solidarity as a substrate.
IF, AGAIN…
Authors: Porter James I.
Published: January 2024

…(Iphigenia) is built around an obscenity of (a) death, the death(s) of Iphigenia, whose body, at first seemingly alive, then rendered a corpse (several times over), and later appearing as a revenant in humanimal form (human but horned), occupies center stage for the full length of the performance. The scene is all too familiar. It is multiply told and retold in Greek mythology and tragedy through a string of variations, and it recalls a further proliferation of violences done to women in our own time. With each telling, Iphigenia is murdered again and again.
Toxic Speech and Limited Demand for Content Moderation on Social Media
Authors: PRADEL FRANZISKA , ZILINSKY JAN , KOSMIDIS SPYROS , THEOCHARIS YANNIS
Published: January 2024

When is speech on social media toxic enough to warrant content moderation? Platforms impose limits on what can be posted online, but also rely on users’ reports of potentially harmful content. Yet we know little about what users consider inadmissible to public discourse and what measures they wish to see implemented. Building on past work, we conceptualize three variants of toxic speech: incivility, intolerance, and violent threats. We present results from two studies with pre-registered randomized experiments (Study 1, $ N=\mathrm{5,130} $; Study 2, $ N=\mathrm{3,734} $) to examine how these variants causally affect users’ content moderation preferences. We find that while both the severity of toxicity and the target of the attack matter, the demand for content moderation of toxic speech is limited. We discuss implications for the study of toxicity and content moderation as an emerging area of research in political science with critical implications for platforms, policymakers, and democracy more broadly.
Lithospheric Rheology and Crustal Deformation Across the Northeastern Tibet and Their Implications for Plateau Growth
Authors: Li Zhangjun , Cheng Feng , Li Yujiang , Liu Lei , Zhu Liangyu , Wang Yang , Hao Ming , Zhuang Wenquan , Xiong Renwei , Gan Weijun
Published: January 2024

Understanding lithospheric rheology is crucial in investigating tectonic evolution of intra‐continental tectonic boundary. Here, we use geodetic observations to infer lithospheric rheology across the northeastern Tibet based on a 2D viscoelastic model. Our findings reveal a lower‐crust viscosity of <1022 Pa·s underneath its margins, lower than those estimated underneath its vicinities. By comparing deformation patterns and lithospheric rheology here with those observed in the eastern Tibet, we propose that lateral variations in lower‐crust viscosity control deformation patterns and topographic gradients along the Tibet margins. The presence of low viscosity lower‐crust can lead to the development of contrasting topographic gradients and shape the plateau's geomorphology and deformation characteristics during outward growth of the Tibet. We here emphasize the subtle variations in the lower‐crust rheology between deforming blocks and the corresponding mountain ranges, which play an important role in orogeny along the intracontinental convergence boundary.
Reproducible stability of verbal and spatial functions along the menstrual cycle
Authors: Pletzer Belinda , Bodenbach Hannah , Hoehn Marcel , Hajdari Linda , Hausinger Tobias , Noachtar Isabel , Beltz Adriene M.
Published: January 2024

Recent studies have reported brain changes in response to ovarian hormonal fluctuations along the menstrual cycle. However, it remains unclear, whether these brain changes are of an adaptive nature or whether they are linked to changes in behavior along the menstrual cycle, particularly with respect to cognitive performance. To address this knowledge gap, we report results from 3 well-powered behavioral studies with different task designs, leveraging the advantages of each design type. In all three studies we assessed whether verbal or spatial performance (i) differed between cycle phases, (ii) were related to estradiol and / or progesterone levels and (iii) were moderated by individual hormone sensitivity as estimated by premenstrual symptoms. Overall, results of all three studies point towards a null effect of menstrual cycle phase and – to a lesser extent – ovarian hormones on verbal and spatial performance and provided no evidence for a moderation of this effect by individual hormone sensitivity. We conclude that there is substantial consistency in verbal and spatial performance across the menstrual cycle, and that future studies of intra-individual variation are needed.
Metabolic heterogeneity affects trastuzumab response and survival in HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Jun , Sun Na , Kunzke Thomas , Shen Jian , Feuchtinger Annette , Wang Qian , Meixner Raphael , Gleut Ronan Le , Haffner Ivonne , Luber Birgit , Lordick Florian , Walch Axel
Published: January 2024

Background

Trastuzumab is the only first-line treatment targeted against the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) approved for patients with HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer. The impact of metabolic heterogeneity on trastuzumab treatment efficacy remains unclear.

Methods

Spatial metabolomics via high mass resolution imaging mass spectrometry was performed in pretherapeutic biopsies of patients with HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer in a prospective multicentre observational study. The mass spectra, representing the metabolic heterogeneity within tumour areas, were grouped by K-means clustering algorithm. Simpson’s diversity index was applied to compare the metabolic heterogeneity level of individual patients.

Results

Clustering analysis revealed metabolic heterogeneity in HER2-positive gastric cancer patients and uncovered nine tumour subpopulations. High metabolic heterogeneity was shown as a factor indicating sensitivity to trastuzumab (p = 0.008) and favourable prognosis at trend level. Two of the nine tumour subpopulations associated with favourable prognosis and trastuzumab sensitivity, and one subpopulation associated with poor prognosis and trastuzumab resistance.

Conclusions

This work revealed that tumour metabolic heterogeneity associated with prognosis and trastuzumab response based on tissue metabolomics of HER2-positive gastric cancer. Tumour metabolic subpopulations may provide an association with trastuzumab therapy efficacy.

Clinical trial registration

The patient cohort was conducted from a multicentre observational study (VARIANZ;NCT02305043).
Collagen I-induced VCAN/ERK signaling and PARP1/ZEB1-mediated metastasis facilitate OSBPL2 defect to promote colorectal cancer progression
Authors: Lin Kang , Zhao Yun , Tang Yuqi , Chen Ying , Lin Moubin , He Luwei
Published: January 2024

The global burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) has rapidly increased in recent years. Dysregulated cholesterol homeostasis facilitated by extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling transforms the tumor microenvironment. Collagen I, a major with ECM component is highly expressed in colorectal tumors with infiltrative growth. Although oxysterol binding protein (OSBP)-related proteins accommodate tumorigenesis, OSBPL2, which is usually involved in deafness, is not associated with CRC progression. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the pathological function of OSBPL2 and identify the molecular link between ECM-Collagen I and OSBPL2 in CRC to facilitate the development of new treatments for CRC. OSBPL2 predicted a favorable prognosis in stage IV CRC and substantially repressed Collagen I-induced focal adhesion, migration, and invasion. The reduction of OSBPL2 activated ERK signaling through the VCAN/AREG/EREG axis during CRC growth, while relying on PARP1 via ZEB1 in CRC metastasis. OSBPL2 defect supported colorectal tumor growth and metastasis, which were suppressed by the ERK and PARP1 inhibitors SCH772984 and AG14361, respectively. Overall, our findings revealed that the Collagen I-induced loss of OSBPL2 aggravates CRC progression through VCAN-mediated ERK signaling and the PARP1/ZEB1 axis. This demonstrates that SCH772984 and AG14361 are reciprocally connective therapies for OSBPL2Low CRC, which could contribute to further development of targeted CRC treatment.
HECTD3 inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation by blocking NLRP3-NEK7 interaction
Authors: Cheng Zhuo , Huang Maobo , Li Wei , Hou Lei , Jin Li , Fan Qijin , Zhang Linqiang , Li Chengbin , Zeng Li , Yang Chuanyu , Liang Bin , Li Fubing , Chen Ceshi
Published: January 2024

The NLRP3 inflammasome plays an important role in protecting the host from infection and aseptic inflammation, and its regulatory mechanism is not completely understood. Dysregulation of NLRP3 can cause diverse inflammatory diseases. HECTD3 is a E3 ubiquitin ligase of the HECT family that has been reported to participate in autoimmune and infectious diseases. However, the relationship between HECTD3 and the NLRP3 inflammasome has not been well studied. Herein, we show that HECTD3 blocks the interaction between NEK7 and NLRP3 to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation. In BMDMs, Hectd3 deficiency promotes the assembly and activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and the secretion of IL-1β, while the overexpression of HECTD3 inhibits these processes. Unexpectedly, HECTD3 functions in an E3 activity independent manner. Mechanically, the DOC domain of HECTD3 interacts with NACHT/LRR domain of NLRP3, which blocks NLRP3-NEK7 interaction and NLRP3 oligomerization. Furthermore, HECTD3 inhibits monosodium urate crystals (MSU)-induced gouty arthritis, a NLRP3-related disease. Thus, we reveal a novel regulatory mechanism of NLRP3 by HECTD3 and suggest HECTD3 could be a potential therapeutic target for NLRP3-dependent pathologies.
Atomic-scale manipulation of polar domain boundaries in monolayer ferroelectric In2Se3
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wang Zhe , Liu Lixuan , Nie Anmin , Li Yanxing , Gong Yongji , Zhu Wenguang , Tao Chenggang
Published: January 2024

Domain boundaries have been intensively investigated in bulk ferroelectric materials and two-dimensional materials. Many methods such as electrical, mechanical and optical approaches have been utilized to probe and manipulate domain boundaries. So far most research focuses on the initial and final states of domain boundaries before and after manipulation, while the microscopic understanding of the evolution of domain boundaries remains elusive. In this paper, we report controllable manipulation of the domain boundaries in two-dimensional ferroelectric In2Se3 with atomic precision using scanning tunneling microscopy. We show that the movements of the domain boundaries can be driven by the electric field from a scanning tunneling microscope tip and proceed by the collective shifting of atoms at the domain boundaries. Our density functional theory calculations reveal the energy path and evolution of the domain boundary movement. The results provide deep insight into domain boundaries in two-dimensional ferroelectric materials and will inspire inventive applications of these materials.
Lsr2 acts as a cyclic di-GMP receptor that promotes keto-mycolic acid synthesis and biofilm formation in mycobacteria
Authors: Ling Xiaocui , Liu Xiao , Wang Kun , Guo Minhao , Ou Yanzhe , Li Danting , Xiang Yulin , Zheng Jiachen , Hu Lihua , Zhang Hongyun , Li Weihui
Published: January 2024

Cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) is a second messenger that promotes biofilm formation in several bacterial species, but the mechanisms are often unclear. Here, we report that c-di-GMP promotes biofilm formation in mycobacteria in a manner dependent on the nucleoid-associated protein Lsr2. We show that c-di-GMP specifically binds to Lsr2 at a ratio of 1:1. Lsr2 upregulates the expression of HadD, a (3R)-hydroxyacyl-ACP dehydratase, thus promoting the synthesis of keto-mycolic acid and biofilm formation. Thus, Lsr2 acts as a c-di-GMP receptor that links the second messenger’s function to lipid synthesis and biofilm formation in mycobacteria.
Attitudes and barriers towards deprescribing in older patients experiencing polypharmacy: a narrative review
Authors: Robinson Michael , Mokrzecki Sophie , Mallett Andrew J.
Published: January 2024

Polypharmacy, commonly defined as ≥5 medications, is a rising public health concern due to its many risks of harm. One commonly recommended strategy to address polypharmacy is medication reviews, with subsequent deprescription of inappropriate medications. In this review, we explore the intersection of older age, polypharmacy, and deprescribing in a contemporary context by appraising the published literature (2012–2022) to identify articles that included new primary data on deprescribing medications in patients aged ≥65 years currently taking ≥5 medications. We found 31 articles were found which describe the current perceptions of clinicians towards deprescribing, the identified barriers, key enabling factors, and future directions in approaching deprescribing. Currently, clinicians believe that deprescribing is a complex process, and despite the majority of clinicians reporting feeling comfortable in deprescribing, fewer engage with this process regularly. Common barriers cited include a lack of knowledge and training around the deprescribing process, a lack of time, a breakdown in communication, perceived ‘abandonment of care’, fear of adverse consequences, and resistance from patients and/or their carers. Common enabling factors of deprescribing include recognition of key opportunities to instigate this process, regular medication reviews, improving lines of communication, education of both patients and clinicians and a multidisciplinary approach towards patient care. Addressing polypharmacy requires a nuanced approach in a generally complex group of patients. Key strategies to reducing the risks of polypharmacy include education of patients and clinicians, in addition to improving communication between healthcare providers in a multidisciplinary approach.
Lithium carbonate revitalizes tumor-reactive CD8+ T cells by shunting lactic acid into mitochondria
Authors: Ma Jingwei , Tang Liang , Tan Yaoyao , Xiao Jingxuan , Wei Keke , Zhang Xin , Ma Yuan , Tong Shuai , Chen Jie , Zhou Nannan , Yang Li , Lei Zhang , Li Yonggang , Lv Jiadi , Liu Junwei , Zhang Huafeng , Tang Ke , Zhang Yi , Huang Bo
Published: January 2024

The steady flow of lactic acid (LA) from tumor cells to the extracellular space via the monocarboxylate transporter symport system suppresses antitumor T cell immunity. However, LA is a natural energy metabolite that can be oxidized in the mitochondria and could potentially stimulate T cells. Here we show that the lactate-lowering mood stabilizer lithium carbonate (LC) can inhibit LA-mediated CD8+ T cell immunosuppression. Cytoplasmic LA increased the pumping of protons into lysosomes. LC interfered with vacuolar ATPase to block lysosomal acidification and rescue lysosomal diacylglycerol–PKCθ signaling to facilitate monocarboxylate transporter 1 localization to mitochondrial membranes, thus transporting LA into the mitochondria as an energy source for CD8+ T cells. These findings indicate that targeting LA metabolism using LC could support cancer immunotherapy.
Comparative study of NiO/CuO/Ag doped graphene based materials for reduction of nitroaromatic compounds and degradation of dye with statistical study
Authors: Pandey Gayatri , Singh Nidhi , Rajput Nitesh , Saini Mahesh Kumar , Kothari S. L. , Prasad Jagdish , Lamba Narendra Pal , Chauhan Manmohan Singh
Published: January 2024

In the present work, the Nickel oxide (rGO–NiO), Silver (rGO–Ag), Copper oxide (rGO–CuO) doped Graphene Oxide are reported for catalytic reactions. A comparative study for catalytic activities of these materials are performed with nitroaromatic compound 4-nitroaniline and the results are statistically studied by using univariate analysis of variance and Post Hoc Test through Statistical Package for Social Sciences and it is observed that CuO doped Graphene material is showing better catalytic activity in minimum time. So, further research has been focused on the catalytic acitivity of rGO–CuO only and it is found that it is efficient in reducing other nitro compounds also such as Picric acid and Nitrobenzene. Dye degradation of Methylene blue is also performed using CuO decorated Graphene material and significant changes were observed using UV spectroscopy. The characterization of rGO–CuO is done with Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Powder X-ray Diffraction, Thermogravimetric Analysis, Scanning Electron Microscope and Transmission Electron Microscopy.
The trend of poisonings before and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Behnoush Amir Hossein , Bazmi Elham , Khalaji Amirmohammad , Jafari-Mehdiabad Amirhossein , Barzegari Nasrin , Dehpour Ahmad-Reza , Behnoush Behnam
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially affected people and healthcare systems. One of the main challenges was the reduction and change in the pattern of non-COVID-19 diseases and conditions. Moreover, due to the mental burden of the pandemic, the trend of poisonings and abuses changed. In this study, we aimed to assess the trends of poisonings from different agents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic using the interrupted time series method. This study was conducted at one of the main Tehran referral centers for poisoning, Baharloo Hospital. Pre-COVID-19 period was defined as April 2018 to January 2020 while the COVID-19 time was from February 2020 to March 2022. The total number of monthly poisoning cases in addition to eight categories of drugs/substances/agents were identified, including drugs (such as psychiatric drugs, cardiovascular drugs, and analgesics), opioids, stimulants, methanol, ethanol, cannabis, pesticides, and carbon monoxide. Interrupted time series analysis was performed to compare the pre-pandemic trend of total monthly cases from each category in addition to the proportion (%) of each one. In total, 13,020 cases were poisoned during the study period, among which 6088 belonged to the pre-pandemic period and 6932 were admitted during the COVID-19 era. There was no significant difference in terms of demographic characteristics of patients before and during the pandemic (p-value > 0.05). At the beginning of the pandemic, there was a sudden fall in the number of poisoning patients (− 77.2 cases/month, p-value = 0.003), however, there was a significant increasing trend during the COVID time (3.9 cases/month, p-value = 0.006). Most of the categories had a sharp decrease at the beginning of the pandemic except for methanol and ethanol which had increases, although not significant. Cannabis also had a significant change in slope (− 0.6 cases/month, p-value = 0.016), in addition to the sudden decrease at the beginning of the pandemic (− 10 cases/month, p-value = 0.007). Regarding the proportion of each category from total monthly poisoning cases, methanol, and ethanol had immediate rises of 4.2% per month and 10.1% per month, respectively (both significant). The pandemic had significant effects on the pattern of poisonings from different agents in Iran, the most important of which were alcohol (ethanol and methanol). These differences had policy implications that can be helpful for policymakers and healthcare systems in combating similar situations in the future.
Dose-dependent reduction of somatic expansions but not Htt aggregates by di-valent siRNA-mediated silencing of MSH3 in HdhQ111 mice
Authors: Driscoll Rachelle , Hampton Lucas , Abraham Neeta A. , Larigan J. Douglas , Joseph Nadine F. , Hernandez-Vega Juan C. , Geisler Sarah , Yang Fu-Chia , Deninger Matthew , Tran David T. , Khatri Natasha , Godinho Bruno M. D. C. , Kinberger Garth A. , Montagna Daniel R. , Hirst Warren D. , Guardado Catherine L. , Glajch Kelly E. , Arnold H. Moore , Gallant-Behm Corrie L. , Weihofen Andreas
Published: January 2024

Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by CAG trinucleotide repeat expansions in exon 1 of the HTT gene. In addition to germline CAG expansions, somatic repeat expansions in neurons also contribute to HD pathogenesis. The DNA mismatch repair gene, MSH3, identified as a genetic modifier of HD onset and progression, promotes somatic CAG expansions, and thus presents a potential therapeutic target. However, what extent of MSH3 protein reduction is needed to attenuate somatic CAG expansions and elicit therapeutic benefits in HD disease models is less clear. In our study, we employed potent di-siRNAs to silence mouse Msh3 mRNA expression in a dose-dependent manner in HdhQ111/+ mice and correlated somatic Htt CAG instability with MSH3 protein levels from simultaneously isolated DNA and protein after siRNA treatment. Our results reveal a linear correlation with a proportionality constant of ~ 1 between the prevention of somatic Htt CAG expansions and MSH3 protein expression in vivo, supporting MSH3 as a rate-limiting step in somatic expansions. Intriguingly, despite a 75% reduction in MSH3 protein levels, striatal nuclear HTT aggregates remained unchanged. We also note that evidence for nuclear Msh3 mRNA that is inaccessible to RNA interference was found, and that MSH6 protein in the striatum was upregulated following MSH3 knockdown in HdhQ111/+ mice. These results provide important clues to address critical questions for the development of therapeutic molecules targeting MSH3 as a potential therapeutic target for HD.
The nucleolar shell provides anchoring sites for DNA untwisting
Authors: Fukute Jumpei , Maki Koichiro , Adachi Taiji
Published: January 2024

DNA underwinding (untwisting) is a crucial step in transcriptional activation. DNA underwinding occurs between the site where torque is generated by RNA polymerase (RNAP) and the site where the axial rotation of DNA is constrained. However, what constrains DNA axial rotation in the nucleus is yet unknown. Here, we show that the anchorage to the nuclear protein condensates constrains DNA axial rotation for DNA underwinding in the nucleolus. In situ super-resolution imaging of underwound DNA reveal that underwound DNA accumulates in the nucleolus, a nuclear condensate with a core–shell structure. Specifically, underwound DNA is distributed in the nucleolar core owing to RNA polymerase I (RNAPI) activities. Furthermore, underwound DNA in the core decreases when nucleolar shell components are prevented from binding to their recognition structure, G-quadruplex (G4). Taken together, these results suggest that the nucleolar shell provides anchoring sites that constrain DNA axial rotation for RNAPI-driven DNA underwinding in the core. Our findings will contribute to understanding how nuclear protein condensates make up constraints for the site-specific regulation of DNA underwinding and transcription.
MOF–polymer composites with well-distributed gold nanoparticles for visual monitoring of homocysteine
Authors: Liu Yutong , Cheng Cheng , Zhao Zhenwen , Liu Wei , Qi Li
Published: January 2024

In a TMB-H2O2 system, UVD-PH@AuNPs-based nanozymes displayed enhanced POD-mimetic activity compared with PH@AuNPs-on-U. Following intraperitoneal injection in rats, a protocol for visual detection of serum Hcy was developed.
Competing double-exchange/super-exchange ordering for enhanced water oxidation kinetics
Authors: Sahu Alpana , K. S. Aswathi , Rajak Amit Kumar , Naik Roshan , Qureshi Mohammad
Published: January 2024

An efficient and ultra-stable electrochemical water oxidation system is proposed based on competing double-exchange and super-exchange interactions in ruthenium-doped lanthanum strontium manganites.
Transformation process of boehmite to γ-Al2O3 induced by high-energy ball milling
Authors: Wu Feijie , Zhang Hailin , Liu Wenke , Zhang Qiaoni , Li Qian , Zheng Shili , Li Ping
Published: January 2024

Boehmite is transformed into γ-Al2O3 through high-energy ball milling without high-temperature treatment. The AlO4 and AlO5 appear with the amorphization of boehmite and the AlO5 drives the formation of crystalline γ-Al2O3.
Revisiting ultrasmall phosphine-stabilized rhodium-doped gold clusters AunRh (n = 5, 6, 7, 8): geometric, electronic, and vibrational properties
Authors: Madridejos Jenica Marie L. , Alvino Jason F. , Lu Yunpeng , Golovko Vladimir B. , Metha Gregory F.
Published: January 2024

The Rh-doped gold clusters are fragments of a Rh-centred icosahedron. Calculated orbital energies are consistent with the observed colour of each cluster. Vibrational motions of core metal atoms are much smaller than for the pure gold counterparts.
Dolomite reference material synthesized by pressureless sintering for laser ablation MC-ICP-MS carbon and magnesium isotope analysis
Authors: Lu Jue , Chen Wei , Jin Hong-Yun , Jiang Jiao , Lin Jie , Yang Ao , Li Ming , Zhao Kui-Dong , Jiang Shao-Yong , Liu Yong-Sheng
Published: January 2024

Dolomite reference material is prepared by pressureless sintering, and the powder particle size and sintering temperature are key factors for isotope homogeneity. No in situ isotope fractionation between synthetic samples and natural dolomites.
Charge neutralized poly(β-amino ester) polyplex nanoparticles for delivery of self-amplifying RNA
Authors: Dastgerdi Nazgol Karimi , Gumus Nurcan , Bayraktutan Hulya , Jackson Darryl , Polra Krunal , McKay Paul F. , Atyabi Fatemeh , Dinarvand Rassoul , Shattock Robin J. , Martinez-Pomares Luisa , Gurnani Pratik , Alexander Cameron
Published: January 2024

Therapeutic self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) is a promising approach for disease treatment, as it can be administered in lower doses than messenger RNA (mRNA) to achieve comparable protein production levels.
Gradient oxygen doping triggered a microscale built-in electric field in CdIn2S4 for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Sun Jingwen , Han Shangling , Yao Fanglei , Li Ruixin , Fang Chenchen , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Wang Yaya , Xu Xuefeng , Wu Di , Liu Kai , Xiong Pan , Zhu Junwu
Published: January 2024

Gradient oxygen doping triggered a microscale built-in electric field in CdIn2S4 for highly efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting.
A hidden phase uncovered by ultrafast carrier dynamics in thin Bi2O2Se
Authors: Li Hao , Nairan Adeela , Niu Xiaoran , Chen Yuxiang , Sun Huarui , Lai Linqing , Qin Jingkai , Dang Leyang , Wang Guigen , Khan Usman , He Feng
Published: January 2024

A systematic study of thickness- and fluence-dependent carrier dynamics reveals the hidden ferroelectric transition in CVD-grown Bi2O2Se thin films, offering potential applications in optoelectronic devices that benefit from this transition.
Microwave-assisted ZnO-decorated carbon urchin resembling ‘shish-kebab’ morphology with self-healing and enhanced electromagnetic shielding properties
Authors: Kumar Singh Sandeep , Raj Rishi , Salvi Akshay Sunil , Parasuram Sampath , Kumar S. , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: January 2024

Herein, inspired by Acacia auriculiformis fruit, the shish-kebab-like growth of ZnO on carbon urchin (ZnO@CU) was designed using microwave radiation, thus leading to a hierarchal 3D structure that can promote multiple internal reflections through polarization centers.
Flexible solid-state Zn–air battery based on polymer-oxygen-functionalized g-C3N4 composite membrane
Authors: Singh Arkaj , Sharma Ravinder , Halder Aditi
Published: January 2024

Polymer membrane comprised of oxygen functionalized g-C3N4 fillers in PVA matrix with optimised conductivity without compromising the mechanical behavior of the composite.
Realizing multiferroics in α-Ga2S3via hole doping: a first-principles study
Authors: Zhong Junwen , Wu Peng , Ma Zengying , Xia Xueqian , Song Bowen , Yu Yanghong , Wang Sufan , Huang Yucheng
Published: January 2024

Multiferroics in an intrinsic ferroelectric α-Ga2S3 monolayer can be realized by hole doping.
A scalable synthesis of adjuvanting antigen depots based on metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Ehrman Ryanne N. , Brohlin Olivia R. , Wijesundara Yalini H. , Kumari Sneha , Trashi Orikeda , Howlett Thomas S. , Trashi Ikeda , Herbert Fabian C. , Raja Arun , Koirala Shailendra , Tran Nancy , Al-Kharji Noora M. , Tang Wendy , Senarathna Milinda C. , Hagge Laurel M. , Smaldone Ronald A. , Gassensmith Jeremiah J.
Published: January 2024

ZIF-8 vaccine enhances the humoral immune response through sustained antigen exposure to the immune system whilst zinc adjuvants the vaccine via inducing T cell activation.
Attributing icing precipitations trend (1951-2098) in the context of climate change in Europe
Authors: Raymond Florian , Drobinski Philippe , Roche Nicolas
Published: January 2024

Freezing rain and wet snow, both mentioned as “icing precipitation” in this study, are wintertime climatic events that can lead severe damages for environment and societies. At the European scale, only few studies focused on these climatic events, in comparison with North America. The objectives of this study is (i) to apprehend the actual and future spatio-temporal variability of the “high-impact Icing Precipitation favourable Days” (IPDs), and (ii) to explore the dominating climate variable controlling the IPD trends between the temperature (thermal conditions) and the precipitation (vulnerability conditions), because of the uncertainties of the future projections. Daily minimum, maximum near surface temperatures and accumulated precipitations from the E-OBS (historical period; 1951-2018) and from the Euro-Cordex initiative (future simulations; 2026-2098) are used to apprehend the IPDs. For the historical period, no clear trend emerges, either for the IPDs evolution and for the influential climate variable. For both the near- and long-term horizons, models simulate a decrease in the frequencies of IPDs that should affect almost all of Europe, except for the Scandinavia region. In addition, there would be a strong contribution of the temperature, climatic variable well simulated by regional models, as the most influential climatic conditions in the future variability of the IPDs.
Assessment of pollutant concentrations from a rail vehicle during remote sensing research
Authors: Rymaniak Łukasz , Szymlet Natalia , Frankowski Maciej , Wiśniewski Sławomir , Woźniak Krystian
Published: January 2024

Remote sensing research was carried out for a standard-gauge railbus used for passenger transport in the Wielkopolska voivodeship (Poland). Pollution concentrations were measured using a modular device for ecological assessment of moving vehicles - an emission gate. The basic tests were carried out using equipment from the PEMS group. The results from the remote sensing device were compared to them. Taking into account the results, it was concluded that the newly developed device allows for the assessment of pollutant concentrations in a non-invasive way, both for gaseous compounds and solid particles. The presented analyzes indicate that most of the concentrations reached values close to the minimum indications from the PEMS equipment.
Improving the safety indicators of Ukrainian railways: A study of the longitudinal stability of the railway track
Authors: Bal Olena , Bondarenko Iryna , Kovalchuk Oresta , Grythyshyn Petro
Published: January 2024

The article considers the problem of improving safety indicators on the railways of Ukraine, in particular, with regard to the temperature-stressed jointless track, which makes up more than 75% of the total length of the main tracks. During the operation of this structure, there is a risk of dangerous failures, such as “track ejection” and “rail and sleeper grid displacement”, which can lead to a rolling stock derailment. The article considers various aspects of this problem and analyses the stress state of the jointless track in the context of loss of longitudinal stability, investigating the factors that affect this risk. The purpose of the article is to propose comprehensive solutions to reduce the risk of loss of longitudinal stability of the continuous track and improve safety on Ukrainian railways. The study is based on the analysis of actual cases of rolling stock derailments due to loss of rail and sleeper grid stability. The article also examines the regulatory approach to determining the conditions of longitudinal stability of continuous track in Ukraine and the European Union and compares their approaches. Finally, the authors of the article offer proposals for improving the safety performance of railways, including the introduction of: the European approach to authorization of the subsystem “infrastructure”; modern systems for diagnostics and monitoring of the state of infrastructure; and an approach to work planning based on the assessment of the probability of the risk of loss of rail and sleeper stability. The general context of the article is to improve traffic safety on Ukrainian railways and to avoid transportation accidents associated with the loss of longitudinal stability of the rail and sleeper grid of a jointless track.
Modeling tracking the influence of factors on functioning of transport nodes
Authors: Hanzheiev Dmytro , Dzhus Oleh , Falendysh Anatoliy , Ivanchenko Dmytro , Kletska Olha
Published: January 2024

The research focuses on simulation modeling of the influence of factors on transport nodes. The utilization of electronic devices and sensors to track factors that are difficult to take into account by conventional methods is considered. The research emphasizes the importance of simulation modeling for the analysis of complex systems and offers the concept of applying modern technologies to accurately collect real data and create more realistic impact models. In the course of the research, current theories and developments concerning modern trends in simulation modeling were analyzed, areas that require clarification and additions were identified. In the experimental part, a simplified electronic circuit of a device for generating pulses, which is sensitive to the readings of real-time sensors, is proposed. The use of such devices can facilitate the collection of primary information about operational changes in the city’s road network, the formation of data arrays for traffic management systems. The development is of significant importance for identifying stochastic factors in certain areas and transport hubs, as well as determining the intensity of stochastic effects.
Transport and logistics service of foreign trade cargo flows in integrated production systems
Authors: Gryshchuk Oleksandr , Petryk Anatoliy , Kopiak Nelia , Litus Tetiana
Published: January 2024

The work describes the conditions of functioning of integrated service and logistics formations, taking into account the performance of consolidating operations in transport hubs. A methodology for optimizing structural indicators in transport and service systems is proposed based on the condition of the creation of combined consignments of international cargo. There is a well-founded possibility of applying the principles of comprehensive evaluation of the results of service of foreign trade cargo flows to increase the competitiveness of the transport and logistics service. Using the basic principles of probability theory and mathematical statistics, the random nature of cargo flow service is modeled, and a methodology for substantiating the numerical values of the main indicators of the production activity of integrated formations is proposed under the condition of the random nature of the demand for transport and logistics services. According to the results of the calculations, the main indicators of service and logistics maintenance of foreign trade cargo flows in consolidating nodes were determined under the condition of the stochastic nature of transport and technological processes. The interpretation of the performed calculations provides grounds to propose a set of measures to improve the infrastructure support of integrated production formations. And the structural optimization of transport and service systems of international direction allows ensuring a competitive level of reliability of transport and logistics service of foreign trade cargo flows.
The relationship between intimate partner behaviour control and impulsivity among college students: the chain mediating effect of autonomy needs satisfaction and intimacy quality
Authors: Lan Ruiming , Shen Zifeng , Lian Rong
Published: January 2024

Using the Intimate Partner Behaviour Control Scale, the Autonomy Needs Questionnaire, the Intimacy Quality Questionnaire, and the Chinese version of the Brief Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, we conducted a survey of 416 college students (204 males and 212 females) with a mean age of 24.99 (SD = 7.94) years. The aim of this research was to explore the relationship between intimate partner behaviour control and impulsivity with a focus on the roles of autonomy needs satisfaction and intimacy quality in the context of college students in romantic relationships. The findings indicated that (1) intimate partner behaviour control significantly and positively predicts impulsivity among college students; (2) autonomy needs satisfaction plays a mediating role in the relationship between intimate partner behaviour control and impulsivity among college students; (3) intimacy quality also plays a mediating role in the relationship between intimate partner behaviour control and impulsivity among college students; (4) autonomy needs satisfaction and intimacy quality jointly play a chain mediating role in the relationship between intimate partner behaviour control and impulsivity among college students. These results highlight the close relationship between intimate partner behaviour control and impulsivity, in which context autonomy needs and intimacy quality play a vital role. The findings of this research offer practical insights for mental health practitioners with regard to preventing and intervening in impulsive behaviour among college students as well as guidance for policy plans that aim to promote healthy relationships and prevent intimate partner violence.
Planar shock compression of spark plasma sintered B4C and B4C–TiB2 ceramic composites
Authors: Turnage Scott A. , Clayton John D. , Rodriguez Jonathan , Scharf Thomas W. , Williams Cyril L.
Published: January 2024

Blending of ceramic constituent phases enhances sinterability and performance in high strength ceramics. Here, a near fully dense blended boron carbide (B4C)–titanium diboride (TiB2) composite produced through spark plasma sintering (SPS) is probed to understand the mechanical performance under dynamic uniaxial strain, or shock compression. This study on the shock performance of blended B4C–TiB2 measures the effect of initial TiB2 powder size on the dynamic response of the composite and compares results to those of monolithic SPS B4C. These shock experiments reveal a strengthening of the Hugoniot elastic limit (HEL) with an addition of TiB2 and mitigation of the adverse post-HEL response observed in many brittle ceramics, such as monolithic B4C. The TiB2 particle size in the composite does not noticeably influence these results. The tough nature of TiB2 along with compressive residual stresses in the B4C matrix resulting from high temperature processing and a mismatch of the thermal expansion coefficients of the constituent phases are postulated to strengthen the B4C.
3D inversion of magnetic gradient data based on equivalent source weighting method
Authors: Huang Shuanglong , Qiu Jing , Li Mingyu , Sun Hexuan , Zhang Shunyu
Published: January 2024

3D magnetic inversion is an important method for detecting underwater or underground magnetic objects, which can obtain the physical parameters and geometric features of the target. In order to solve the problem of smooth inversion results of L2 norm regularization, this paper proposes a three-dimensional inversion method of magnetic gradient data based on equivalent source weighting. First, the center position of the magnetic object is estimated using the correlation imaging method, and then the equivalent source weighting function is constructed based on the acquired center position. The weights are calculated according to the distance from the grid to the center of the magnetic object. The further away the grid is, the higher weight will be given. The Euclidean distance and Chebyshev distance are used for calculating the weights of grids. Finally, the equivalent source weighting function is added to the total objective function and solved by conjugate gradient method. Simulation experiments show that the equivalent source weighting function can reduce the root-mean-square error of the inversion results and improve the structural similarity. Compared with the Euclidean distance, the inversion result of the edges and corners of cubic magnetic body model is better when weighted with the Chebyshev distance. The proposed method does not require iterative solving and can avoid generating too smooth results, which improves the inversion accuracy.
Expression of
Atoh1
,
Gfi1
, and
Pou4f3
in the mature cochlea reprograms nonsensory cells into hair cells
Authors: McGovern Melissa M. , Hosamani Ishwar V. , Niu Yichi , Nguyen Ken Y. , Zong Chenghang , Groves Andrew K.
Published: January 2024

Mechanosensory hair cells of the mature mammalian organ of Corti do not regenerate; consequently, loss of hair cells leads to permanent hearing loss. Although nonmammalian vertebrates can regenerate hair cells from neighboring supporting cells, many humans with severe hearing loss lack both hair cells and supporting cells, with the organ of Corti being replaced by a flat epithelium of nonsensory cells. To determine whether the mature cochlea can produce hair cells in vivo, we reprogrammed nonsensory cells adjacent to the organ of Corti with three hair cell transcription factors:
Gfi1
,
Atoh1
, and
Pou4f3.
We generated numerous hair cell–like cells in nonsensory regions of the cochlea and new hair cells continued to be added over a period of 9 wk. Significantly, cells adjacent to reprogrammed hair cells expressed markers of supporting cells, suggesting that transcription factor reprogramming of nonsensory cochlear cells in adult animals can generate mosaics of sensory cells like those seen in the organ of Corti. Generating such sensory mosaics by reprogramming may represent a potential strategy for hearing restoration in humans.