bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Trp-574-Leu mutation in acetolactate synthase confers imazamox resistance in barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli) from China
Authors: Liu Yu , Shi Kerong , Gao Haitao , Yin Shaojing , Dong Liyao , Feng Zhike
Published: October 2024

Barnyardgrass [Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.] is increasingly infesting imidazolinone-tolerant (IMI-T) rice (Oryza sativa L.) fields in China, and E. crus-galli imazamox resistance has become the major concern for weed management in IMI-T rice fields. In this study, the susceptible population JLGY-3 (S) and the suspected resistant population JHXY-2 (R) collected from IMI-T rice fields were used as research subjects. When treated with imazamox, the JHXY-2 (R) population showed a high level of herbicide resistance with a resistance index of 31.2. JHXY-2 (R) was cross-resistant to all five acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors from different chemical families, but sensitive to herbicides inhibiting acetyl-CoA carboxylase. To understand the reason why JHXY-2 (R) was resistant to imazamox, we performed experiments to characterize potential target-site resistance (TSR) and non–target site resistance (NTSR) mechanisms. A Trp-574-Leu amino acid mutation in ALS and low imazamox ALS sensitivity were the main mechanisms underlying imazamox resistance in this JHXY-2 (R) population. There was no significant difference in ALS gene expression and ALS protein abundance between R and S populations. High-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analysis showed enhanced metabolism of imazamox in JHXY-2 (R), which was in contrast to the results of pretreatment with a metabolic enzyme inhibitor. Treatments with cytochrome P450 monooxygenase/glutathione S-transferase (P450/GST) inhibitors did not alter the resistance level of JHXY-2 (R) against imazamox. Transcriptome sequencing showed that there was almost no significant difference in the expression of P450 and GST metabolic enzyme genes between R and S populations, and only GSTU1 showed a significant upregulation in the R population, further clarifying the NTSR mechanism of JHXY-2 (R). In conclusion, amino acid mutation and higher enzyme activity of ALS are the main causes of imazamox resistance in JHXY-2 (R). However, given the differences in imazamox residues in the leaves of E. crus-galli, there may still be undetectable NTSR mechanisms that are causing imazamox resistance in the R population.
Electric interrow control of lupine plants does not adversely affect the neighboring non-target lupine plants
Authors: Borger Catherine P.D. , Slaven Miranda J.
Published: October 2024

Interrow weed control is used in a wide range of crops, traditionally applied via physical cultivation or banded herbicide application. However, these methods may result in crop damage, development of herbicide resistance, or off-target environmental impacts. Electric interrow weed control presents an alternative, although its potential impact on crop yield requires further investigation. One of the modes of action of electric weed control is the continuous electrode–plant contact method, which passes a current through the weed and into the roots. As the current passes into the roots, it can potentially disperse through the soil to neighboring root systems. Such off-target current dispersion, particularly in moist topsoil with low resistance, poses potential concern for neighboring crops when electric interrow weed control is applied. This research evaluated the continuous electrode–plant contact method, using a Zasso™ XPower machine, in comparison with mowing across three trials conducted in 2022 and 2023. Both treatments were used to remove target lupine (Lupinus albus L.) plants adjacent to a row of non-target lupine. Electric weed control was applied to plants in dry soil or following a simulated rainfall event. The trials demonstrated that electric weed control and mowing did not reduce density and biomass of neighboring non-target lupine plants compared with the untreated control. Likewise, pod and seed production, grain size, and protein, as well as grain germinability and vigor of the resulting seedlings, were not reduced by these weed control tactics. This research used technology that was not fit for purpose in broadscale grain crops but concludes that electric weed control via the continuous electrode–plant contact method or mowing did not result in crop damage. Therefore, it is unlikely that damage will occur using commercial-grade electric weed control or mowing technology designed for large-acreage interrow weed control, thus offering nonchemical weed management options.
Solid Earth Carbon Degassing and Sequestration Since 1 Billion Years Ago
Authors: Müller R. Dietmar , Dutkiewicz Adriana , Zahirovic Sabin , Merdith Andrew S. , Scotese Christopher R. , Mills Benjamin J. W. , Ilano Lauren , Mather Ben
Published: October 2024

Solid Earth CO2 outgassing, driven by plate tectonic processes, is a key driver of carbon cycle models. However, the magnitudes and variations in outgassing are poorly constrained in deep‐time. We assess plate tectonic carbon emissions and sequestration by coupling a plate tectonic model with reconstructions of oceanic plate carbon reservoirs and a thermodynamic model to quantify outfluxes from slabs and continental arcs over 1 billion years. In the early Neoproterozoic, our model predicts a peak in crustal production and net outgassing from 840 to 780 Ma that corresponds to a contemporaneous pulse in large igneous province eruptions. The Sturtian and Marinoan glaciations (717–635 Ma) correspond to a low in mid‐ocean ridge outgassing, while the following Ediacaran global warming coincides with a rise in net atmospheric carbon influx, driven by an increase in plate boundary and rift length. The Cambrian, Silurian/Devonian and Triassic Jurassic hothouse climates are synchronous with a reduction in carbon sequestration flux into oceanic plates, increasing net outgassing. In contrast, the Early Cretaceous hothouse climate is accompanied by a pronounced increase in mid‐ocean ridge outgassing. Both the Early Ordovician cooling and the late Paleozoic ice ages coincide with a significant decrease in net atmospheric outgassing, driven by an increase in carbon sequestration. The late Cenozoic glaciation is associated with a long‐term decrease in mid‐ocean ridge and rift degassing, and a pronounced increase in carbon flux into pelagic carbonate sediments. Our tectono‐thermodynamic carbon cycle model provides a new foundation for future long‐term climate and geochemical cycling models.
Phase Transitions and Thermal Equation of State of Fe‐9wt.%Si Applied to the Moon and Mercury
Authors: Berrada Meryem , Chen Bin , Chao Keng‐Hsien , Peckenpaugh Juliana , Wang Siheng , Zhang Dongzhou , Nguyen Phuong , Li Jie
Published: October 2024

Accurate knowledge of the phase transitions and thermoelastic properties of candidate iron alloys, such as Fe‐Si alloys, is essential for understanding the nature and dynamics of planetary cores. The phase diagrams of some Fe‐Si alloys between 1 atm and 16 GPa have been back‐extrapolated from higher pressures, but the resulting phase diagram of Fe83.6Si16.4 (9 wt.% Si) is inconsistent with temperature‐induced changes in its electrical resistivity between 6 and 8 GPa. This study reports in situ synchrotron X‐ray diffraction (XRD) measurements on pre‐melted and powder Fe83.6Si16.4 samples from ambient conditions to 60 GPa and 900 K using an externally heated diamond‐anvil cell. Upon compression at 300 K, the bcc phase persisted up to ∼38 GPa. The hcp phase appeared near 8 GPa in the pre‐melted sample, and near 17 GPa in the powder sample. The appearance of the hcp phase in the pre‐melted sample reconciles the reported changes in electrical resistivity of a similar sample, thus resolving the low‐pressure region of the phase diagram. The resulting high‐temperature Birch‐Murnaghan equation of state (EoS) and thermal EoS based on the Mie‐Gruneisen‐Debye model of the bcc and hcp structures are consistent with, and complement the literature data at higher pressures. The calculated densities based on the thermal EoS of Fe‐9wt.%Si indicate that both bcc and hcp phases agree with the reported core density estimates for the Moon and Mercury.
Influence of Organo‐Mineral Associations on Terrestrial Particulate Organic Matter Dispersal in the Northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Yedema Yord W. , Sangiorgi Francesca , Trabucho‐Alexandre João P. , Nierop Klaas G. J. , Vonk Jorien E. , Peterse Francien
Published: October 2024

We investigate the influence of organo‐mineral associations on the dispersal of terrestrial organic matter (TerrOM) along a land‐sea transect offshore the Atchafalaya river in the northern Gulf of Mexico (GoM). We analyzed bulk sediment properties, mineral surface area, and clay composition and used lipid biomarkers to distinguish plant‐derived (long‐chain n‐alkanes and n‐alcohols) freshwater aquatic (C32 1,15‐diols) and soil‐microbial (branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (brGDGTs)) OM‐pools in different grain size fractions (≥250, 250–125, 125–63, 63–30, 30–10 and <10 μm) of marine surface sediments. Concentrations and mineral loadings of the targeted biomarkers were highest in the <30 μm fractions, suggesting an affinity with clay minerals. Spatially, concentrations of higher plant‐derived n‐alkanes remained relatively constant along the transect, whereas those of the other OM‐pools rapidly decreased further offshore. This suggests that the association of plant‐derived OM with mineral surfaces is better maintained than that of freshwater and soil‐microbial OM. In addition, similar distributions among grain size fractions at each site for the C32 1,15‐diols and brGDGTs suggest that these compounds are likely not associated with mineral surfaces in the marine realm. Furthermore, as TerrOM might be stripped from mineral surfaces upon discharge in the marine realm, the dispersal of TerrOM‐pools could also represent a degradation signal, as n‐alkanes are more resistant than long‐chain diols and brGDGTs. Together, our results indicate that the stability of organo‐mineral associations in the marine realm differs per TerrOM‐pool and can lead to a differential dispersal of these pools, and thus OM sequestration patterns in the northern GoM.
Shape optimization for high efficiency metasurfaces: theory and implementation
Authors: Dainese Paulo , Marra Louis , Cassara Davide , Portes Ary , Oh Jaewon , Yang Jun , Palmieri Alfonso , Rodrigues Janderson Rocha , Dorrah Ahmed H. , Capasso Federico
Published: October 2024

Complex non-local behavior makes designing high efficiency and multifunctional metasurfaces a significant challenge. While using libraries of meta-atoms provide a simple and fast implementation methodology, pillar to pillar interaction often imposes performance limitations. On the other extreme, inverse design based on topology optimization leverages non-local coupling to achieve high efficiency, but leads to complex and difficult to fabricate structures. In this paper, we demonstrate numerically and experimentally a shape optimization method that enables high efficiency metasurfaces while providing direct control of the structure complexity through a Fourier decomposition of the surface gradient. The proposed method provides a path towards manufacturability of inverse-designed high efficiency metasurfaces.
Machine learning-driven discovery of high-performance MEMS disk resonator gyroscope structural topologies
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhou Jinqiu , Wang Hongyi , Fan Youyou , Song Xinyue , Xie Jianbing , Bäck Thomas , Wang Hao
Published: October 2024

The design of the microelectromechanical system (MEMS) disc resonator gyroscope (DRG) structural topology is crucial for its physical properties and performance. However, creating novel high-performance MEMS DRGs has long been viewed as a formidable challenge owing to their enormous design space, the complexity of microscale physical effects, and time-consuming finite element analysis (FEA). Here, we introduce a new machine learning-driven approach to discover high-performance DRG topologies. We represent the DRG topology as pixelated binary matrices and formulate the design task as a path-planning problem. This path-planning problem is solved via deep reinforcement learning (DRL). In addition, we develop a convolutional neural network-based surrogate model to replace the expensive FEA to provide reward signals for DRL training. Benefiting from the computational efficiency of neural networks, our approach achieves a significant acceleration ratio of 4.03 × 105 compared with FEA, reducing each DRL training run to only 426.5 s. Through 8000 training runs, we discovered 7120 novel structural topologies that achieve navigation-grade precision. Many of these surpass traditional designs in performance by several orders of magnitude, revealing innovative solutions previously unconceived by humans.
Characteristics and outcomes of therapy-related acute leukemia following autologous transplant (Auto-HCT) for multiple myeloma
Authors: Elghawy Omar , Deshpande Saarang , Sussman Jonathan , Garfall Alfred , Cohen Adam , Kapur Shivani , Susanibar-Adaniya Sandra , Vogl Dan , Waxman Adam , Stadtmauer Edward
Published: October 2024

With a prolonging duration of survivorship, patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who receive high-dose chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HCT) have an increased risk of secondary malignancy, most concerning acute leukemia. We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients with MM who underwent auto-HCT between January 1, 2010, and January 1, 2023, who later developed therapy-related acute leukemia (t-AL). Of 1770 patients with MM who underwent auto-HCT, 18 (1.01%) developed t-AL at a mean interval of 60.0 ± 41.3 months after auto-HCT. The patients with t-AL consisted of 9 (50%) with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), 8 (44.4%) with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and 1 (5.6%) with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APML). All patients had received an alkylating agent as part of induction, and the majority received lenalidomide as maintenance therapy. Genetic abnormalities of t-AL were consistent with prior reports. Median overall survival from diagnosis of t-AL was 19.5 months. In patients with t-AL who entered CR, long term survival was common. Further research on predisposing conditions to developing t-AL in patients with MM undergoing auto-HCT is warranted.
Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury upregulates nucleostemin expression via HIF-1α and c-Jun pathways and alleviates apoptosis by promoting autophagy
Authors: Han Xiao , Jiang Zhicheng , Hou Yufeng , Zhou Xiaorong , Hu Baoying
Published: October 2024

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, often arising from interventional therapy for acute myocardial infarction, leads to irreversible myocardial cell death. While previous studies indicate that nucleostemin (NS) is induced by myocardial I/R injury and mitigates myocardial cell apoptosis, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, our study reveals that NS upregulation is critical for preventing cardiomyocyte death following myocardial I/R injury. Elevated NS protein levels were observed in myocardial I/R injury mouse and rat models, as well as Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) cardiac cell lines (H9C2 cells). We identified binding sites for c-Jun and HIF-1α in the NS promoter region. Inhibition of JNK and HIF-1α led to a significant decrease in NS transcription and protein expression. Furthermore, inhibition of autophagy and NS expression promoted myocardial cell apoptosis in H/R. Notably, the cell model showed reduced LC3I transformation to LC3II, downregulated Beclin1, upregulated p62, and altered expression of autophagy-related proteins upon NS interference in H/R cells. These findings suggest that NS expression, driven by c-Jun and HIF-1α pathways, facilitates autophagy, providing protection against both myocardial I/R injury and H/R-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis.
Unraveling the landscape of m6A RNA methylation in wound healing and scars
Authors: Zhang Qi , Dong Liming , Gong Song , Wang Ting
Published: October 2024

Wound healing is a complex process involving sequential stages of hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Multiple cell types and factors, including underlying conditions like diabetes and bacterial colonization, can influence healing outcomes and scar formation. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a predominant RNA modification, plays crucial roles in gene expression regulation, impacting various biological processes and diseases. m6A regulates embryonic skin morphogenesis, wound repair, and pathophysiological processes like inflammation and angiogenesis. Recent studies have highlighted the role of m6A in wound healing, scar formation, and tissue remodeling. Additionally, m6A presents a unique expression pattern in pathological wounds and scars, potentially influencing wound healing and scar formation through modulating gene expression and cellular signaling, thereby serving as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets. Targeting m6A modifications are potential strategies to enhance wound healing and reduce scar formation. This review aims to explore the roles and mechanisms of m6A RNA methylation in wound healing and scars, and discuss current challenges and perspectives. Continued research in this field will provide significant value for optimal wound repair and scar treatment.
Physiological and pathogenic T cell autoreactivity converge in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Eugster Anne , Lorenc Anna , Kotrulev Martin , Kamra Yogesh , Goel Manisha , Steinberg-Bains Katja , Sabbah Shereen , Dietz Sevina , Bonifacio Ezio , Peakman Mark , Gomez-Tourino Iria
Published: October 2024

Autoimmune diseases result from autoantigen-mediated activation of adaptive immunity; intriguingly, autoantigen-specific T cells are also present in healthy donors. An assessment of dynamic changes of this autoreactive repertoire in both health and disease is thus warranted. Here we investigate the physiological versus pathogenic autoreactive processes in the context of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and one of its landmark autoantigens, glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65). Using single cell gene expression profiling and tandem T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing, we find that GAD65-specific true naïve cells are present in both health and disease, with GAD65-specific effector and memory responses showing similar ratios in healthy donors and patients. Deeper assessment of phenotype and TCR repertoire uncover differential features in GAD65-specific TCRs, including lower clonal sizes of healthy donor-derived clonotypes in patients. We thus propose a model whereby physiological autoimmunity against GAD65 is needed during early life, and that alterations of these physiological autoimmune processes in predisposed individuals trigger overt Type 1 diabetes.
A temperature-sensitive metabolic valve and a transcriptional feedback loop drive rapid homeoviscous adaptation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Hoogerland Loles , van den Berg Stefan Pieter Hendrik , Suo Yixing , Moriuchi Yuta W. , Zoumaro-Djayoon Adja , Geurken Esther , Yang Flora , Bruggeman Frank , Burkart Michael D. , Bokinsky Gregory
Published: October 2024

All free-living microorganisms homeostatically maintain the fluidity of their membranes by adapting lipid composition to environmental temperatures. Here, we quantify enzymes and metabolic intermediates of the Escherichia coli fatty acid and phospholipid synthesis pathways, to describe how this organism measures temperature and restores optimal membrane fluidity within a single generation after a temperature shock. A first element of this regulatory system is a temperature-sensitive metabolic valve that allocates flux between the saturated and unsaturated fatty acid synthesis pathways via the branchpoint enzymes FabI and FabB. A second element is a transcription-based negative feedback loop that counteracts the temperature-sensitive valve. The combination of these elements accelerates membrane adaptation by causing a transient overshoot in the synthesis of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids following temperature shocks. This strategy is comparable to increasing the temperature of a water bath by adding water that is excessively hot rather than adding water at the desired temperature. These properties are captured in a mathematical model, which we use to show how hard-wired parameters calibrate the system to generate membrane compositions that maintain constant fluidity across temperatures. We hypothesize that core features of the E. coli system will prove to be ubiquitous features of homeoviscous adaptation systems.
Structure of the turnover-ready state of an ancestral respiratory complex I
Authors: Ivanov Bozhidar S. , Bridges Hannah R. , Jarman Owen D. , Hirst Judy
Published: October 2024

Respiratory complex I is pivotal for cellular energy conversion, harnessing energy from NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreduction to drive protons across energy-transducing membranes for ATP synthesis. Despite detailed structural information on complex I, its mechanism of catalysis remains elusive due to lack of accompanying functional data for comprehensive structure-function analyses. Here, we present the 2.3-Å resolution structure of complex I from the α-proteobacterium Paracoccus denitrificans, a close relative of the mitochondrial progenitor, in phospholipid-bilayer nanodiscs. Three eukaryotic-type supernumerary subunits (NDUFS4, NDUFS6 and NDUFA12) plus a novel L-isoaspartyl-O-methyltransferase are bound to the core complex. Importantly, the enzyme is in a single, homogeneous resting state that matches the closed, turnover-ready (active) state of mammalian complex I. Our structure reveals the elements that stabilise the closed state and completes P. denitrificans complex I as a unified platform for combining structure, function and genetics in mechanistic studies.
Innate immune control of influenza virus interspecies adaptation via IFITM3
Authors: Denz Parker J. , Speaks Samuel , Kenney Adam D. , Eddy Adrian C. , Papa Jonathan L. , Roettger Jack , Scace Sydney C. , Rubrum Adam , Hemann Emily A. , Forero Adriana , Webby Richard J. , Bowman Andrew S. , Yount Jacob S.
Published: October 2024

Influenza virus pandemics are caused by viruses from animal reservoirs that adapt to efficiently infect and replicate in human hosts. Here, we investigate whether Interferon-Induced Transmembrane Protein 3 (IFITM3), a host antiviral factor with known human deficiencies, plays a role in interspecies virus infection and adaptation. We find that IFITM3-deficient mice and human cells can be infected with low doses of avian influenza viruses that fail to infect WT counterparts, identifying a new role for IFITM3 in controlling the minimum infectious virus dose threshold. Remarkably, influenza viruses passaged through Ifitm3−/− mice exhibit enhanced host adaptation, a result that is distinct from viruses passaged in mice deficient for interferon signaling, which exhibit attenuation. Our data demonstrate that IFITM3 deficiency uniquely facilitates potentially zoonotic influenza virus infections and subsequent adaptation, implicating IFITM3 deficiencies in the human population as a vulnerability for emergence of new pandemic viruses.
Resolving optimal ionomer interaction in fuel cell electrodes via operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Mengnan , Zhang Jiaguang , Favero Silvia , Higgins Luke J. R. , Luo Hui , Stephens Ifan E. L. , Titirici Maria-Magdalena
Published: October 2024

To bridge the gap between oxygen reduction electrocatalysts development and their implementation in real proton exchange membrane fuel cell electrodes, an important aspect to be understood is the interaction between the carbon support, the active sites, and the proton conductive ionomer as it greatly affects the local transportations to the catalyst surface. Here we show that three Pt/C catalysts, synthesized using the polyol method with different carbon supports (low surface area Vulcan, high surface area Ketjenblack, and biomass-derived highly ordered mesoporous carbon), revealed significant variations in ionomer-catalyst interactions. The Pt/C catalysts supported on ordered mesoporous carbon derived from biomass showed the best performance under the gas diffusion electrode configuration. Through a unique approach of operando X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy combined with gas sorption analysis, we were able to demonstrate the beneficial effect of mesopore presence for optimal ionomer-catalyst interaction at both molecular and structural level.
Imprinted atomic displacements drive spin–orbital order in a vanadate perovskite
Authors: Radhakrishnan Padma , Rabinovich Ksenia S. , Boris Alexander V. , Fürsich Katrin , Minola Matteo , Christiani Georg , Logvenov Gennady , Keimer Bernhard , Benckiser Eva
Published: October 2024

Perovskites with the generic composition ABO3 exhibit an enormous variety of quantum states, such as orbital order, magnetism and superconductivity. Their flexible and comparatively simple structure allows for straightforward chemical substitution and cube-on-cube combination of different compounds in atomically sharp epitaxial heterostructures. Many of the diverse physical properties of perovskites are determined by small deviations from the ideal cubic perovskite structure, which are challenging to control. Here we show that directional imprinting of atomic displacements in the antiferromagnetic Mott insulator YVO3 can be achieved by depositing epitaxial films on different facets of the same isostructural substrate. These facets were chosen such that other well-known control parameters, including lattice and polarity mismatch with the overlayer, remain nearly unchanged. We observe signatures of staggered orbital and magnetic order and demonstrate distinct spin–orbital ordering patterns on different facets. We attribute these results to the influence of specific octahedral rotation and cation displacement patterns, which are imprinted by the substrate facet, on the covalency of the bonds and the superexchange interactions in YVO3. Our results show that substrate-induced templating of lattice distortion patterns constitutes a pathway for materials design beyond established strain-engineering strategies.
Universality of ecological memory for local and global net ecosystem exchange, atmospheric CO2, and sea surface temperature
Authors: Elnar Allan Roy B. , Bernido Christopher C.
Published: October 2024

Modeling global net ecosystem exchange is essential to understanding and quantifying the complex interactions between the Earth’s terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere. Emphasizing the inter-relatedness between the global net ecosystem exchange, global sea surface temperature, and atmospheric $${\text {CO}}_{2}$$

CO
2

levels, intuitively suggests that all three systems may exhibit collective environmental memory. Motivated by this, we explicitly identified a collective memory function and showed a similar non-Markovian stochastic behavior for these systems exhibiting superdiffusive behavior in short time intervals. We obtained the values of the memory parameter, $$\mu$$
μ
, and the characteristic frequencies, $$\nu$$
ν
, for global net ecosystem exchange (GNEE) ($$\mu = 0.94\pm 0.03, \nu = 0.67\pm 0.08/mo.$$

μ
=
0.94
±
0.03
,
ν
=
0.67
±
0.08
/
m
o
.

), global sea surface temperature (GSST) ($$\mu = 0.68\pm 0.11, \nu = 0.30\pm 0.18/mo.$$

μ
=
0.68
±
0.11
,
ν
=
0.30
±
0.18
/
m
o
.

), and atmospheric $${\text {CO}}_{2}$$

CO
2

($$\mu = 0.78\pm 0.08, \nu =0.66\pm 0.13/wk.$$

μ
=
0.78
±
0.08
,
ν
=
0.66
±
0.13
/
w
k
.

). The values of the memory parameter are within the range, $$0< \mu < 1$$

0
<
μ
<
1

, and thus all three systems are in the superdiffusive regime. We emphasize, further, that these results were consistent with our previous analyses at the ecosystem level (i.e. Great Barrier Reef) suggesting scale invariance for these phenomena. Thus, the observed superdiffusive behavior operating at different scales suggests universality of the collective memory function for these systems.
Rapid increase of MFGE8 secretion from endometrial epithelial cells is an indicator of extracellular vesicle mediated embryo maternal dialogue
Authors: Muhandiram Subhashini , Kodithuwakku Suranga , Godakumara Kasun , Fazeli Alireza
Published: October 2024

Successful embryo implantation relies on synchronized dialog between the embryo and endometrium, and the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in facilitating this cross-talk has been recently established. In our previous study, milk fat globule-EGF factor 8 protein (MFGE8) was identified as increasing in receptive endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) in response to trophoblastic EVs. However, the dynamics of MFGE8 protein in this context are not completely understood. Therefore, we examined its expression and secretion in EECs exposed to estrogen, progesterone, and trophoblastic EVs to gain deeper insights into its potential as an indicator of EV-mediated embryo-maternal dialogue. Our findings revealed that MFGE8 secretion is sensitive to estrogen and progesterone, and that trophoblastic EVs stimulate their release in both receptive and non-receptive EECs. Furthermore, trophoblast EV function was dose and time-dependent. Notably, the secretion of MFGE8 increased within a short timeframe of 30 min after addition of EVs, suggesting the possibility of rapid processes such as binding, fusion or internalization of trophoblastic EVs within EECs. Interestingly, MFGE8 released from EECs was associated with EVs, suggesting increased EV secretion from EECs in response to embryonic signals. In conclusion, increased MFGE8 secretion in this embryo implantation model can serve as an indicator of EV-mediated embryo-maternal dialogue.
Biofilms in modern CaCO3-supersaturated freshwater environments reveal viral proxies
Authors: Słowakiewicz Mirosław , Borkowski Andrzej , Perri Edoardo , Działak Paweł , Tagliasacchi Ezher , Gradziński Michał , Kele Sándor , Reuning Lars , Kibblewhite Tom , Whitaker Fiona , Reid R. Pamela , Tucker Maurice E.
Published: October 2024

Biofilms are mucilaginous-organic layers produced by microbial activity including viruses. Growing biofilms form microbial mats which enhance sediment stability by binding particles with extracellular polymeric substances and promoting growth through nutrient cycling and organic matter accumulation. They preferentially develop at the sediment-water interface of both marine and non-marine environments, and upon the growing surfaces of modern tufa and travertine. In this context, however, little is known about the factors, environmental or anthropogenic, which affect viral communities in freshwater spring settings. To explore this issue, geochemical and metagenomic data were subjected to multidimensional analyses (Principal Component Analysis, Classical Multidimensional Scaling, Partial Least Squares analysis and cluster analysis based on beta-diversity), and these show that viral composition is specific and dependent on environment. Indeed, waters precipitating tufa and travertine do vary in their geochemistry with their viruses showing distinct variability between sites. These differences between virus groups allow the formulation of a viral proxy, based on the Caudoviricetes/Megaviricetes ratio established on the most abundant groups of viruses. This ratio may be potentially used in analysing ancient DNA preserved in carbonate formations as an additional source of information on the microbiological community during sedimentation.
Gastrointestinal and respiratory morbidity when introducing eggs as complementary food: a randomised controlled trial in South African infants
Authors: Nakiranda Regina , Malan Linda , Ricci Hannah , Kruger Herculina S. , Nienaber Arista , Visser Marina , Ricci Cristian , Faber Mieke , Smuts Cornelius M.
Published: October 2024

We investigated the incidence and duration of morbidity symptoms among infants aged 6 to 9 months from a low socioeconomic community receiving one egg daily for 6 months. This was a secondary outcome of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of 500 infants conducted in Jouberton, South Africa. The primary outcome was linear growth. Morbidity data were collected weekly using a symptoms diary and qualitative data with focus group discussions at the endpoint. Ethical approval was obtained from the North-West University Health Research Ethics Committee. The intervention group had a ~ 5% higher incidence of gastrointestinal morbidity (17.0%) compared to the control group (11.9%). Gastrointestinal morbidity without fever tended to be 1.4 times higher in the intervention group (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.93; P = 0.058) and tended to be 4 times higher with fever (OR: 4.07, 95% CI: 0.86, 19.23; P = 0.077). The duration of total gastrointestinal and respiratory morbidity was 1.5 days longer in the intervention group (β: 1.491; 95% CI 0.064, 2.918; P = 0.041). Complementary feeding with eggs may have contributed towards an increased risk for gastrointestinal morbidity.
The endoplasmic reticulum protein HSPA5/BiP is essential for decidual transformation of human endometrial stromal cells
Authors: Fernández Laura , Kong Chow-Seng , Alkhoury Majd , Tryfonos Maria , Brighton Paul J. , Rawlings Thomas M. , Muter Joanne , Gori Maria Soledad , Leirós Claudia Pérez , Lucas Emma S. , Brosens Jan J. , Ramhorst Rosanna
Published: October 2024

Decidualization denotes the process of inflammatory reprogramming of endometrial stromal cells (EnSC) into specialized decidual cells (DC). During this process, EnSC are subjected to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as well as acute cellular senescence. Both processes contribute to the proinflammatory mid-luteal implantation window and their dysregulation has been implicated in reproductive failure. Here, we evaluated the link between ER stress, decidual differentiation and senescence. In-silico analysis identified HSPA5 gene, codifying the ER chaperone BiP, as a potentially critical regulator of cell fate divergence of decidualizing EnSC into anti-inflammatory DC and pro-inflammatory senescent decidual cells (snDC). Knockdown of HSPA5 in primary EnSC resulted both in decreased expression of DC marker genes and attenuated induction of senescence associated β-galactosidase activity, a marker of snDC. Stalling of the decidual reaction upon HSPA5 knockdown was apparent at 8 days of differentiation and was preceded by the upregulation of ER stress associated proteins IRE1α and PERK. Further, HSPA5 knockdown impaired colony-forming unit activity of primary EnSC, indicative of loss of cellular plasticity. Together, our results point to a key role for HSPA5/BiP in decidual transformation of EnSCs and highlight the importance of constraining ER stress levels during this process.
Humans versus models: a comparative assessment of ecosystem services models and stakeholders’ perceptions
Authors: David João , Cabral Pedro , Campos Felipe S.
Published: October 2024

Mapping the production of Ecosystem Services (ES) is imperative for sustainable ecosystem management. Likewise, incorporating expert knowledge enhances ES research. Here, we calculate eight multi-temporal ES indicators for mainland Portugal using a spatial modelling approach. These indicators are then integrated into the novel ASEBIO index—Assessment of Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity—which depicts a combined ES potential based on CORINE Land Cover, using a multi-criteria evaluation method with weights defined by stakeholders through an Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Outputs from the modelling show how ES have changed in Portugal in relation to land use changes, including trade-offs between 1990 and 2018. The composed ASEBIO index is compared against the stakeholders’ valuation of ES potential for the year 2018. The results reveal a significant mismatch between the ES potential perceived by stakeholders and the models, with stakeholder estimates being 32.8% higher on average. All the selected ES were overestimated by the stakeholders. Drought regulation and erosion prevention have the highest contrasts, while water purification, food production and recreation are the most closely aligned among both approaches. Providing the first national overview about the status of multiple ES over a 28 year-period, our findings highlight potential disparities between data-driven and stakeholder-based evaluations. Therefore, we suggest the need for integrative strategies that consider scientific models with expert knowledge for more effective ES assessments and land-use planning. This approach could help bridge the gap between data-driven models and human perspectives, resulting in more balanced and inclusive decision-making.
Data-driven modeling of subharmonic forced response due to nonlinear resonance
Authors: Axås Joar , Bäuerlein Bastian , Avila Kerstin , Haller George
Published: October 2024

Complex behavior in nonlinear dynamical systems often arises from resonances, which enable intricate energy transfer mechanisms among modes that otherwise would not interact. Theoretical, numerical and experimental methods are available to study such behavior when the resonance arises among modes of the linearized system. Much less understood are, however, resonances arising from nonlinear modal interactions, which cannot be detected from a classical linear analysis. Academic examples of such phenomena have been known, but no systematic method has been developed to detect and model nonlinear resonant interactions purely from numerical or experimental data. Here, we develop such a data-driven methodology that identifies nonlinear resonant response on low-dimensional spectral submanifolds (SSMs) of the dynamical system. Our approach is generally applicable to nonlinear resonances, but we specifically focus here on one particular behavior: subharmonic response in forced nonlinear systems without any resonance among the linearized frequencies of the unforced system. We first illustrate analytically how such a response is born out of a nonlinear resonance hidden in the conservative limit of the system. We then show how this effect can be identified and modeled purely from data. As our main example, we isolate and model previously unexplained response patterns in fluid sloshing experiments.
Demographics shape public preferences for carbon dioxide removal and solar geoengineering interventions across 30 countries
Authors: Sovacool Benjamin K. , Evensen Darrick , Baum Chad M. , Fritz Livia , Low Sean
Published: October 2024

Climate intervention technologies such as carbon dioxide removal and solar geoengineering are becoming more actively considered as solutions to global warming. The demographic aspects of the public serve as a core determinant of social vulnerability and the ability for people to cope with, or fail to cope with, exposure to heat waves, air pollution, or disruptions in access to modern energy services. This study examines public preferences for 10 different climate interventions utilizing an original, large-scale, cross-country set of nationally representative surveys in 30 countries. It focuses intently on the demographic dimensions of gender, youth and age, poverty, and income as well as intersections and interactions between these categories. We find that support for the more engineered forms of carbon removal decreases with age. Gender has little effect overall. Those in poverty and the Global South are nearly universally more supportive of climate interventions of various types.
State of the art of mobile health technologies use in clinical arrhythmia care
Authors: Sridhar Arun R. , Cheung Jim W. , Lampert Rachel , Silva Jennifer N. A. , Gopinathannair Rakesh , Sotomonte Juan C. , Tarakji Khaldoun , Fellman Mark , Chrispin Jonathan , Varma Niraj , Kabra Rajesh , Mehta Nishaki , Al-Khatib Sana M , Mayfield Jacob J. , Navara Rachita , Rajagopalan Bharath , Passman Rod , Fleureau Yann , Shah Maully J , Turakhia Mintu , Lakkireddy Dhanunjaya
Published: October 2024

The rapid growth in consumer-facing mobile and sensor technologies has created tremendous opportunities for patient-driven personalized health management. The diagnosis and management of cardiac arrhythmias are particularly well suited to benefit from these easily accessible consumer health technologies. In particular, smartphone-based and wrist-worn wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) and photoplethysmography (PPG) technology can facilitate relatively inexpensive, long-term rhythm monitoring. Here we review the practical utility of the currently available and emerging mobile health technologies relevant to cardiac arrhythmia care. We discuss the applications of these tools, which vary with respect to diagnostic performance, target populations, and indications. We also highlight that requirements for successful integration into clinical practice require adaptations to regulatory approval, data management, electronic medical record integration, quality oversight, and efforts to minimize the additional burden to health care professionals.
Field cycling imaging to characterise breast cancer at low and ultra-low magnetic fields below 0.2 T
Authors: Mallikourti Vasiliki , Ross P. James , Maier Oliver , Hanna Katie , Husain Ehab , Davies Gareth R. , Lurie David J. , Lip Gerald , Lahrech Hana , Masannat Yazan , Broche Lionel M.
Published: October 2024

Background

This prospective feasibility study explores Field-Cycling Imaging (FCI), a new MRI technology that measures the longitudinal relaxation time across a range of low magnetic field strengths, providing additional information about the molecular properties of tissues. This study aims to assess the performance of FCI and investigate new quantitative biomarkers at low fields within the context of breast cancer.

Methods

We conducted a study involving 9 people living with breast cancer (10 tumours in total, mean age, 54 ± 10 years). FCI images were obtained at four magnetic field strengths (2.3 mT to 200 mT). FCI images were processed to generate T1 maps and 1/T1 dispersion profiles from regions of tumour, normal adipose tissue, and glandular tissue. The dispersion profiles were subsequently fitted using a power law model. Statistical analysis focused on comparing potential FCI biomarkers using a Mann-Whitney U or Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results

We show that low magnetic fields clearly differentiate tumours from adipose and glandular tissues without contrast agents, particularly at 22 mT (1/T1, median [IQR]: 6.8 [3.9–7.8] s−1 vs 9.1 [8.9–10.2] s−1 vs 8.1 [6.2–9.2] s−1, P < 0.01), where the tumour-to-background contrast ratio was highest (62%). Additionally, 1/T1 dispersion indicated a potential to discriminate invasive from non-invasive cancers (median [IQR]: 0.05 [0.03–0.09] vs 0.19 [0.09–0.26], P = 0.038).

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, we described the first application of in vivo FCI in breast cancer, demonstrating relevant biomarkers that could complement diagnosis of current imaging modalities, non-invasively and without contrast agents.
Luteolin detoxifies DEHP and prevents liver injury by degrading Uroc1 protein in mice
Authors: Wang Huiting , Zhao Ziting , Song Mingming , Zhang Wenxiang , Liu Chang , Chen Siyu
Published: October 2024

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), an environmental pollutant, has been widely detected in both environmental and clinical samples, representing a serious threat to the homeostasis of the endocrine system. The accumulation of DEHP is notably pronounced in the liver and can lead to liver damage. The lack of effective high-throughput screening system retards the discovery of such drugs that can specifically target and eliminate the detrimental impact of DEHP. Here, by developing a Cy5-modified single-strand DNA-aptamer-based approach targeting DEHP, we have identified luteolin as a potential drug, which showcasing robust efficacy in detoxifying the DEHP by facilitating the expulsion of DEHP in both mouse primary hepatocytes and livers. Mechanistically, luteolin enhances the protein degradation of hepatic urocanate hydratase 1 (Uroc1) by targeting its Ala270 and Val272 sites. More importantly, trans-urocanic acid (trans-UCA), as the substrate of Uroc1, possesses properties similar to luteolin by regulating the lysosomal exocytosis through the inhibition of the ERK1/2 signal cascade. In summary, luteolin serves as a potent therapeutic agent in efficiently detoxifying DEHP in the liver by regulating the UCA/Uroc1 axis.
Copper-catalysed bromine atom transfer cyclisation in SDS micelles
Authors: Wu Shuoren , Yang Xue , Zhou Jianlin , Yu Wei
Published: October 2024

SDS micelles have a remarkable beneficial effect on the copper-mediated atom transfer radical cyclisation of non-activated alkyl bromides in water.
Reinvestigation of the ν3–ν6 Coriolis interaction in trifluoroiodomethane
Authors: Bhujel Arun , Akter Salma , Ali Muhammad Qasim , Park G. Barratt
Published: October 2024

An updated fit to the interacting levels ν3 and ν6 of CF3I has been evaluated in this work.
Insight into the potential of M–NbS2 (M = Pd, Ti and V) monolayers as anode materials for alkali ion (Li/Na/K) batteries
Authors: Xiao Meixia , Xu Shuling , Song Haiyang , Sun Zhifei , Bi Jiaying , Xiao Beibei
Published: October 2024

First-principles calculations were conducted to explore the effects of Pd, Ti and V doping on the performance of NbS2 monolayers as electrode materials for alkali ion batteries.
Synthesis, characterization and chemical bonding analysis of the quaternary cyanamides Li2MnHf2(NCN)6 and Li2MnZr2(NCN)6
Authors: Bourakhouadar Hicham , Medina-Jurado Juan , Müller Peter C. , Corkett Alex J. , Dronskowski Richard
Published: October 2024

Two novel metal cyanimides have been prepared via solid-state metathesis reactions. In-depth structural analysis supported by DFT calculations probes the bonding in these phases and highlights the flexibility of the NCN2− moiety.
Theory-guided development of a barium-doped cobalt catalyst for ammonia decomposition
Authors: Gunnarson Alexander , Cao Ang , Sloth Olivia F. , Varón Miriam , Bueno Villoro Ruben , Veile Thomas , Damsgaard Christian D. , Frandsen Cathrine , Nørskov Jens K. , Chorkendorff Ib
Published: October 2024

This work describes the theory-guided design and experimental validation of a barium-doped cobalt catalyst for ammonia decomposition.
Data-driven discovery of electrode materials for protonic ceramic cells
Authors: Hu Xueyu , Zhou Yucun , Luo Zheyu , Li Haoyu , Shi Nai , Liu Zhijun , Zhang Weilin , Wang Weining , Ding Yong , Liu Meilin
Published: October 2024

A schematic representation of a four-stage data-driven material screening methodology, progressing from uncovering unexplored chemical spaces through high-throughput calculations to validating findings in protonic ceramic cells.
Unraveling aqueous alcohol freezing: new theoretical tools from graph theory to extract molecular processes in MD simulations
Authors: AbouHaidar Rawan , Bougueroua Sana , Duflot Denis , Gaigeot Marie-Pierre , Wyslouzil Barbara , Toubin Céline
Published: October 2024

Molecular dynamics simulations and topological graph analysis explore water–alcohol surface freezing from 283 K to 192 K. During cooling, the interfacial hydrogen-bonded network adjusts to incorporate alcohol hydroxyl groups into polygonal structures.
Utilize rather than create: transforming phthalonitrile resin into N-rich hierarchical porous carbon for supercapacitor materials
Authors: Li Yi , Liu Qiancheng , Zhang Qian , Li Xiaoxiao , Yang Yang , Wang Pan , Li Kui , Li Ying , Zhong Fei , Liu Qi , Zheng Yun , Yang Xulin , Zhao Peng
Published: October 2024

The “utilize rather than create” strategy employs the reaction product (RPH) as the precursor and the by-product (KCl) as the template for the synthesis of N-rich hierarchical porous carbon for high performance supercapacitor materials.
Dual-drive acoustic micromixer for rapid nucleation and ultrafast growth of perovskite nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Zhifang , Lu Yuwen , Tan Wei , Zhu Guorui
Published: October 2024

An acoustic micromixer driven by bubbles and sharp edges, controlling the nucleation and growth of perovskite nanoparticles.