bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Solar Activity and ENSO on the Early Summer Asian Monsoon During the Last Millennium
Authors: Chen Po‐Ju , Wu Chi‐Hua , Chen Yue‐Gau , Lee Shih‐Yu
Published: February 2024

The Asian Monsoonal rainfall accounts for the majority of annual regional precipitation in East and South Asia and could be remotely regulated by El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Besides, several paleoclimate records and simulations have indicated solar signals in the Asian Monsoon, implying the impact of solar activity on the regional monsoon precipitation. By conducting multi‐linear regression analysis to the solar irradiance forced single‐forcing experiment in the last millennium, this study presents the comparison of solar and ENSO effects on monsoonal precipitation in South and East Asia during early summer (May–June). Increased total solar irradiance during high solar activity years tends to trigger a favorable environment for developing monsoon onset, leading to more precipitation against ENSO‐related patterns over Southeast and South Asia before peak‐summer (July–August). The result supports reconstructed terrestrial records and underlines considerable influences of the solar cycle on the variation of the Asian Summer Monsoon.
Climate Variability Leads to Multiple Oxygenation Episodes Across the Great Oxidation Event
Authors: Ruiz Daniel Garduno , Goldblatt Colin , Ahm Anne‐Sofie
Published: February 2024

The temporal relationship between global glaciations and the Great Oxidation Event (GOE) suggests that climate change played an important role in Earth's oxygenation. The potential role of temperature is captured by the stratigraphic proximity between glacial deposits and sediments containing mass‐independent fractionation of sulfur isotopes (MIF‐S). We use a time‐dependent one‐dimensional photochemical model to investigate whether temperature changes associated with global glaciations can drive oscillations in atmospheric O2 levels and MIF‐S production across the GOE. We find that extreme climate change can cause atmospheric O2 to oscillate between pre (<10−6 times the present atmospheric level, PAL) and post‐GOE (>10−5 PAL) levels. Post‐glacial hot‐moist greenhouse climates lead to post‐GOE O2 levels because the abundant H2O vapor and oxidizing radicals drive the depletion of reduced species. This pattern is generally consistent with the MIF‐S signal observed in the sedimentary record, suggesting a link between global glaciations and O2 oscillations across the GOE.
Sensitivity of AMOC Fingerprints Under Future Anthropogenic Warming
Authors: Zhu Chenyu , Cheng Lijing
Published: February 2024

Detecting the response of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) to anthropogenic warming can only be made with fingerprints indirectly because of the lack of sufficiently long direct measurements. However, whether the relationship between the AMOC and its fingerprints is stationary is rarely examined. This study uses coupled and ocean‐alone model simulations to investigate the sensitivity of two typical AMOC fingerprints under future anthropogenic warming. We found a lower sensitivity of the North Atlantic warming hole fingerprint in future warming scenarios associated with the differing vulnerability of deep‐water origins to external forcing and climate feedback. In contrast, the remote South Atlantic salinity pile‐up fingerprint is relatively insensitive to variations in AMOC sources, and its sensitivity to the AMOC is slightly enhanced by an intensified hydrological cycle. Our study implies that fingerprints outside the northern deep convection region may become more suitable in representing the response of AMOC to future warming.
Electrical Responses of Modified Mineral Surfaces as Observed With Spectral Induced Polarization and Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Hao Na , Moysey Stephen , Dean Delphine
Published: February 2024

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and spectral induced polarization (SIP) are widely used to investigate the electrical properties of mineral surfaces at vastly different scales of measurement. We compare AFM and SIP measurements made on two different materials (glass beads and silica gel) subjected to etching, deposition of iron oxide particles, and inclusion of calcite grains. We found that the treatments produced qualitatively consistent behaviors in the AFM and SIP data. Direct AFM measurements of surface charge density for silica and calcite surfaces were quantitatively compared to values estimated from the SIP results using a grain polarization model. No statistically significant difference (at a 95% confidence level) was found between the surface charge density of silica estimated by AFM (2.3 ± 6.6 mC/m2 for glass beads and 1.6 ± 0.1 mC/m2 for silica gel) versus SIP (5.4 ± 4.4 mC/m2 for glass beads and 1.6 ± 0.5 mC/m2 for silica gel). The surface charge density for calcite determined by AFM (43.5 ± 12.9 mC/m2) was approximately 19 times higher than that found for silica. While the charge density of calcite surfaces determined by SIP was also generally higher than that found for silica, different treatments produced significantly different values between 4.7 and 258 mC/m2 (with a maximum 95% CI of ±8.7 mC/m2). Several possible explanations exist for the range of the observed SIP measurements, including aging of the calcite surfaces. Overall, this study suggests the potential for the complementary use of AFM and SIP measurements to constrain future investigations of polarization mechanisms in porous media.
Evidence of Reflected Internal Solitary Waves in the Strait of Gibraltar
Authors: Roustan Jean‐Baptiste , Bordois Lucie , Garciá‐Lafuente Jesús , Dumas Franck , Auclair Francis , Carton Xavier
Published: February 2024

Large‐amplitude internal solitary waves (ISWs) propagating eastward toward the Alboran Sea have long been known in the Strait of Gibraltar. New in‐situ data and satellite images evidence northwestward propagating ISWs. These waves are probably the reflection of the well‐known eastward propagating wave along the Moroccan shelf. A simple 2D‐vertical section, run with the compressible non‐hydrostatic Coastal and Regional Ocean COmmunity model, illustrates that the Moroccan slope is conducive to reflection of incident solitary waves of amplitude observed in the Strait of Gibraltar. A clear signature of these waves in the Tarifa high‐frequency sea level oscillations is depicted that paves the way to studies of the seasonality of ISWs in the Strait of Gibraltar with the long‐time series of sea level at Tarifa. The polarity of the reflected waves, observed with Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers/Conductivity‐Temperature‐Depth array moorings, presents a slight variability possibly due to the internal tide oscillations. The reflected ISWs arrives at the mooring location in phase with the peak of the internal tide. For the strongest tide, the pynocline approaches a critical point where the polarity of the ISWs might reverse.
Depositional and Diagenetic Sulfates of Hogwallow Flats and Yori Pass, Jezero Crater: Evaluating Preservation Potential of Environmental Indicators and Possible Biosignatures From Past Martian Surface Waters and Groundwaters
Authors: Benison Kathleen C. , Gill Karena K. , Sharma Sunanda , Siljeström Sandra , Zawaski Mike , Bosak Tanja , Broz Adrian , Clark Benton C. , Cloutis Edward , Czaja Andrew D. , Flannery David , Fornaro Teresa , Gómez Felipe , Hand Kevin , Herd Chris D. K. , Johnson Jeffrey R. , Madariaga Juan Manuel , Madsen Morten B. , Martinez‐Frías Jesús , Nachon Marion , Núñez Jorge I. , Pedersen David A. K. , Randazzo Nicholas , Shuster David L. , Simon Justin , Steele Andrew , Tate Christian , Treiman Allan , Uckert Kyle , Williams Amy J. , Yanchilina Anastasia
Published: February 2024

The Mars 2020 Perseverance rover has examined and sampled sulfate‐rich clastic rocks from the Hogwallow Flats member at Hawksbill Gap and the Yori Pass member at Cape Nukshak. Both strata are located on the Jezero crater western fan front, are lithologically and stratigraphically similar, and have been assigned to the Shenandoah formation. In situ analyses demonstrate that these are fine‐grained sandstones composed of phyllosilicates, hematite, Ca‐sulfates, Fe‐Mg‐sulfates, ferric sulfates, and possibly chloride salts. Sulfate minerals are found both as depositional grains and diagenetic features, including intergranular cement and vein‐ and vug‐cements. Here, we describe the possibility of various sulfate phases to preserve potential biosignatures and the record of paleoenvironmental conditions in fluid and solid inclusions, based on findings from analog sulfate‐rich rocks on Earth. The samples collected from these outcrops, Hazeltop and Bearwallow from Hogwallow Flats, and Kukaklek from Yori Pass, should be examined for such potential biosignatures and environmental indicators upon return to Earth.
An Efficient and Robust Estimation of Spatio‐Temporally Distributed Parameters in Dynamic Models by an Ensemble Kalman Filter
Authors: Sawada Yohei , Duc Le
Published: February 2024

The accuracy of Earth system models is compromised by unknown and/or unresolved dynamics, making the quantification of systematic model errors essential. While a model parameter estimation, which allows parameters to change spatio‐temporally, shows promise in quantifying and mitigating systematic model errors, the estimation of the spatio‐temporally distributed model parameters has been practically challenging. Here we present an efficient and practical method to estimate time‐varying parameters in high‐dimensional spaces. In our proposed method, Hybrid Offline and Online Parameter Estimation with ensemble Kalman filtering (HOOPE‐EnKF), model parameters estimated by EnKF are constrained by results of offline batch optimization, in which the posterior distribution of model parameters is obtained by comparing simulated and observed climatological variables. HOOPE‐EnKF outperforms the original EnKF in synthetic experiments using a two‐scale Lorenz96 model and a simple global general circulation model. One advantage of HOOPE‐EnKF over traditional EnKFs is that its performance is not greatly affected by inflation factors for model parameters, thus eliminating the need for extensive tuning of inflation factors. We thoroughly discuss the potential of HOOPE‐EnKF as a practical method for improving parameterizations of process‐based models and prediction in real‐world applications such as numerical weather prediction.
High‐Resolution Terrestrial Water Storage Estimates From GRACE and Land Surface Models
Authors: Kim Jae‐Seung , Seo Ki‐Weon , Kim Byeong‐Hoon , Ryu Dongryeol , Chen Jianli , Wilson Clark
Published: February 2024

Terrestrial Water Storage (TWS) changes have been estimated at basin to continental scales from gravity variations using data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites since 2002. The relatively low spatial resolution (∼300 km) of GRACE observations has been a main limitation in such studies. Various data processing strategies, including mascons, forward modeling, and constrained linear deconvolution (CLD), have been employed to address this limitation. Here we develop a revised CLD method to obtain a TWS estimate that combines GRACE observations with much higher spatial resolution land surface models. The revised CLD constrains model estimates to agree with GRACE TWS when smoothed. As an example, we apply the method to obtain a high spatial resolution TWS estimate in Australia. We assess the accuracy of the approach using synthetic GRACE data.
Metals Could Reveal Corals’ Past Lives
Authors: Scharping Nathaniel
Published: February 2024

Examining the role of stable metal isotopes in biological activities such as photosynthesis provides a promising new avenue of research into how coral responds to environmental stressors.
Ultracompact mirror device for forming 20-nm achromatic soft-X-ray focus toward multimodal and multicolor nanoanalyses
Authors: Shimamura Takenori , Takeo Yoko , Moriya Fumika , Kimura Takashi , Shimura Mari , Senba Yasunori , Kishimoto Hikaru , Ohashi Haruhiko , Shimba Kenta , Jimbo Yasuhiko , Mimura Hidekazu
Published: February 2024

Nanoscale soft-X-ray microscopy is a powerful analysis tool in biological, chemical, and physical sciences. To enhance its probe sensitivity and leverage multimodal soft-X-ray microscopy, precise achromatic focusing devices, which are challenging to fabricate, are essential. Here, we develop an ultracompact Kirkpatrick-Baez (ucKB) mirror, which is ideal for the high-performance nanofocusing of broadband-energy X-rays. We apply our advanced fabrication techniques and short-focal-length strategy to realize diffraction-limited focusing over the entire soft-X-ray range. We achieve a focus size of 20.4 nm at 2 keV, which represents a significant improvement in achromatic soft-X-ray focusing. The ucKB mirror extends soft-X-ray fluorescence microscopy by producing a bicolor nanoprobe with a 1- or 2-keV photon energy. We propose a subcellular chemical mapping method that allows a comprehensive analysis of specimen morphology and the distribution of light elements and metal elements. ucKB mirrors will improve soft-X-ray nanoanalyses by facilitating photon-hungry, multimodal, and polychromatic methods, even with table-top X-ray sources.
Delayed increase in stone tool cutting-edge productivity at the Middle-Upper Paleolithic transition in southern Jordan
Authors: Kadowaki Seiji , Wakano Joe Yuichiro , Tamura Toru , Watanabe Ayami , Hirose Masato , Suga Eiki , Tsukada Kazuhiro , Tarawneh Oday , Massadeh Sate
Published: February 2024

Although the lithic cutting-edge productivity has long been recognized as a quantifiable aspect of prehistoric human technological evolution, there remains uncertainty how the productivity changed during the Middle-to-Upper Paleolithic transition. Here we present the cutting-edge productivity of eight lithic assemblages in the eastern Mediterranean region that represent a chrono-cultural sequence including the Late Middle Paleolithic, Initial Upper Paleolithic, the Early Upper Paleolithic, and the Epipaleolithic. The results show that a major increase in the cutting-edge productivity does not coincide with the conventional Middle-Upper Paleolithic boundary characterized by the increase in blades in the Initial Upper Paleolithic, but it occurs later in association with the development of bladelet technology in the Early Upper Paleolithic. Given increasing discussions on the complexity of Middle-Upper Paleolithic cultural changes, it may be fruitful to have a long-term perspective and employ consistent criteria for diachronic comparisons to make objective assessment of how cultural changes proceeded across conventional chrono-cultural boundaries.
Structural basis for lysophosphatidylserine recognition by GPR34
Authors: Izume Tamaki , Kawahara Ryo , Uwamizu Akiharu , Chen Luying , Yaginuma Shun , Omi Jumpei , Kawana Hiroki , Hou Fengjue , Sano Fumiya K. , Tanaka Tatsuki , Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Okamoto Hiroyuki H. , Kise Yoshiaki , Ohwada Tomohiko , Aoki Junken , Shihoya Wataru , Nureki Osamu
Published: February 2024

GPR34 is a recently identified G-protein coupled receptor, which has an immunomodulatory role and recognizes lysophosphatidylserine (LysoPS) as a putative ligand. Here, we report cryo-electron microscopy structures of human GPR34-Gi complex bound with one of two ligands bound: either the LysoPS analogue S3E-LysoPS, or M1, a derivative of S3E-LysoPS in which oleic acid is substituted with a metabolically stable aromatic fatty acid surrogate. The ligand-binding pocket is laterally open toward the membrane, allowing lateral entry of lipidic agonists into the cavity. The amine and carboxylate groups of the serine moiety are recognized by the charged residue cluster. The acyl chain of S3E-LysoPS is bent and fits into the L-shaped hydrophobic pocket in TM4-5 gap, and the aromatic fatty acid surrogate of M1 fits more appropriately. Molecular dynamics simulations further account for the LysoPS-regioselectivity of GPR34. Thus, using a series of structural and physiological experiments, we provide evidence that chemically unstable 2-acyl LysoPS is the physiological ligand for GPR34. Overall, we anticipate the present structures will pave the way for development of novel anticancer drugs that specifically target GPR34.
ASPSCR1-TFE3 reprograms transcription by organizing enhancer loops around hexameric VCP/p97
Authors: Pozner Amir , Li Li , Verma Shiv Prakash , Wang Shuxin , Barrott Jared J. , Nelson Mary L. , Yu Jamie S. E. , Negri Gian Luca , Colborne Shane , Hughes Christopher S. , Zhu Ju-Fen , Lambert Sydney L. , Carroll Lara S. , Smith-Fry Kyllie , Stewart Michael G. , Kannan Sarmishta , Jensen Bodrie , John Cini M. , Sikdar Saif , Liu Hongrui , Dang Ngoc Ha , Bourdage Jennifer , Li Jinxiu , Vahrenkamp Jeffery M. , Mortenson Katelyn L. , Groundland John S. , Wustrack Rosanna , Senger Donna L. , Zemp Franz J. , Mahoney Douglas J. , Gertz Jason , Zhang Xiaoyang , Lazar Alexander J. , Hirst Martin , Morin Gregg B. , Nielsen Torsten O. , Shen Peter S. , Jones Kevin B.
Published: February 2024

The t(X,17) chromosomal translocation, generating the ASPSCR1::TFE3 fusion oncoprotein, is the singular genetic driver of alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) and some Xp11-rearranged renal cell carcinomas (RCCs), frustrating efforts to identify therapeutic targets for these rare cancers. Here, proteomic analysis identifies VCP/p97, an AAA+ ATPase with known segregase function, as strongly enriched in co-immunoprecipitated nuclear complexes with ASPSCR1::TFE3. We demonstrate that VCP is a likely obligate co-factor of ASPSCR1::TFE3, one of the only such fusion oncoprotein co-factors identified in cancer biology. Specifically, VCP co-distributes with ASPSCR1::TFE3 across chromatin in association with enhancers genome-wide. VCP presence, its hexameric assembly, and its enzymatic function orchestrate the oncogenic transcriptional signature of ASPSCR1::TFE3, by facilitating assembly of higher-order chromatin conformation structures demonstrated by HiChIP. Finally, ASPSCR1::TFE3 and VCP demonstrate co-dependence for cancer cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in vitro and in ASPS and RCC mouse models, underscoring VCP’s potential as a novel therapeutic target.
Non-Abelian Floquet braiding and anomalous Dirac string phase in periodically driven systems
Authors: Slager Robert-Jan , Bouhon Adrien , Ünal F. Nur
Published: February 2024

While a significant fraction of topological materials has been characterized using symmetry requirements1–4, the past two years have witnessed the rise of novel multi-gap dependent topological states5–9, the properties of which go beyond these approaches and are yet to be fully explored. Although already of active interest at equilibrium10–15, we show that the combination of out-of-equilibrium processes and multi-gap topological insights galvanize a new direction within topological phases of matter. We show that periodic driving can induce anomalous multi-gap topological properties that have no static counterpart. In particular, we identify Floquet-induced non-Abelian braiding, which in turn leads to a phase characterized by an anomalous Euler class, being the prime example of a multi-gap topological invariant. Most strikingly, we also retrieve the first example of an ‘anomalous Dirac string phase’. This gapped out-of-equilibrium phase features an unconventional Dirac string configuration that physically manifests itself via anomalous edge states on the boundary. Our results not only provide a stepping stone for the exploration of intrinsically dynamical and experimentally viable multi-gap topological phases, but also demonstrate periodic driving as a powerful way to observe these non-Abelian braiding processes notably in quantum simulators.
Androgen drives melanoma invasiveness and metastatic spread by inducing tumorigenic fucosylation
Authors: Liu Qian , Adhikari Emma , Lester Daniel K. , Fang Bin , Johnson Joseph O. , Tian Yijun , Mockabee-Macias Andrea T. , Izumi Victoria , Guzman Kelly M. , White Michael G. , Koomen John M. , Wargo Jennifer A. , Messina Jane L. , Qi Jianfei , Lau Eric K.
Published: February 2024

Melanoma incidence and mortality rates are historically higher for men than women. Although emerging studies have highlighted tumorigenic roles for the male sex hormone androgen and its receptor (AR) in melanoma, cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these sex-associated discrepancies are poorly defined. Here, we delineate a previously undisclosed mechanism by which androgen-activated AR transcriptionally upregulates fucosyltransferase 4 (FUT4) expression, which drives melanoma invasiveness by interfering with adherens junctions (AJs). Global phosphoproteomic and fucoproteomic profiling, coupled with in vitro and in vivo functional validation, further reveal that AR-induced FUT4 fucosylates L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM), which is required for FUT4-increased metastatic capacity. Tumor microarray and gene expression analyses demonstrate that AR-FUT4-L1CAM-AJs signaling correlates with pathological staging in melanoma patients. By delineating key androgen-triggered signaling that enhances metastatic aggressiveness, our findings help explain sex-associated clinical outcome disparities and highlight AR/FUT4 and its effectors as potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in melanoma.
Cryo-EM structure of the extracellular domain of murine Thrombopoietin Receptor in complex with Thrombopoietin
Authors: Sarson-Lawrence Kaiseal T. G. , Hardy Joshua M. , Iaria Josephine , Stockwell Dina , Behrens Kira , Saiyed Tamanna , Tan Cyrus , Jebeli Leila , Scott Nichollas E. , Dite Toby A. , Nicola Nicos A. , Leis Andrew P. , Babon Jeffrey J. , Kershaw Nadia J.
Published: February 2024

Thrombopoietin (Tpo) is the primary regulator of megakaryocyte and platelet numbers and is required for haematopoetic stem cell maintenance. Tpo functions by binding its receptor (TpoR, a homodimeric Class I cytokine receptor) and initiating cell proliferation or differentiation. Here we characterise the murine Tpo:TpoR signalling complex biochemically and structurally, using cryo-electron microscopy. Tpo uses opposing surfaces to recruit two copies of receptor, forming a 1:2 complex. Although it binds to the same, membrane-distal site on both receptor chains, it does so with significantly different affinities and its highly glycosylated C-terminal domain is not required. In one receptor chain, a large insertion, unique to TpoR, forms a partially structured loop that contacts cytokine. Tpo binding induces the juxtaposition of the two receptor chains adjacent to the cell membrane. The therapeutic agent romiplostim also targets the cytokine-binding site and the characterisation presented here supports the future development of improved TpoR agonists.
Programming crack patterns with light in colloidal plasmonic films
Authors: Thorimbert Fanny , Odziomek Mateusz , Chateau Denis , Parola Stéphane , Faustini Marco
Published: February 2024

Crack formation observed across diverse fields like geology, nanotechnology, arts, structural engineering or surface science, is a chaotic and undesirable phenomenon, resulting in random patterns of cracks generally leading to material failure. Limiting the formation of cracks or “programming” the path of cracks is a great technological challenge since it holds promise to enhance material durability or even to develop low cost patterning methods. Drawing inspiration from negative phototropism in plants, we demonstrate the capability to organize, guide, replicate, or arrest crack propagation in colloidal films through remote light manipulation. The key consists in using plasmonic photothermal absorbers to generate “virtual” defects enabling controlled deviation of cracks. We engineer a dip-coating process coupled with selective light irradiation enabling simultaneous deposition and light-directed crack patterning. This approach represents a rare example of a robust self-assembly process with long-range order that can be programmed in both space and time.
Structural basis for the oligomerization-facilitated NLRP3 activation
Authors: Yu Xiaodi , Matico Rosalie E. , Miller Robyn , Chauhan Dhruv , Van Schoubroeck Bertrand , Grauwen Karolien , Suarez Javier , Pietrak Beth , Haloi Nandan , Yin Yanting , Tresadern Gary John , Perez-Benito Laura , Lindahl Erik , Bottelbergs Astrid , Oehlrich Daniel , Van Opdenbosch Nina , Sharma Sujata
Published: February 2024

The NACHT-, leucine-rich-repeat-, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) is a critical intracellular inflammasome sensor and an important clinical target against inflammation-driven human diseases. Recent studies have elucidated its transition from a closed cage to an activated disk-like inflammasome, but the intermediate activation mechanism remains elusive. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of NLRP3, which forms an open octamer and undergoes a ~ 90° hinge rotation at the NACHT domain. Mutations on open octamer’s interfaces reduce IL-1β signaling, highlighting its essential role in NLRP3 activation/inflammasome assembly. The centrosomal NIMA-related kinase 7 (NEK7) disrupts large NLRP3 oligomers and forms NEK7/NLRP3 monomers/dimers which is a critical step preceding the assembly of the disk-like inflammasome. These data demonstrate an oligomeric cooperative activation of NLRP3 and provide insight into its inflammasome assembly mechanism.
A mediator of OsbZIP46 deactivation and degradation negatively regulates seed dormancy in rice
Authors: Guo Naihui , Tang Shengjia , Wang Yakun , Chen Wei , An Ruihu , Ren Zongliang , Hu Shikai , Tang Shaoqing , Wei Xiangjin , Shao Gaoneng , Jiao Guiai , Xie Lihong , Wang Ling , Chen Ying , Zhao Fengli , Sheng Zhonghua , Hu Peisong
Published: February 2024

Preharvest sprouting (PHS) is a deleterious phenotype that occurs frequently in rice-growing regions where the temperature and precipitation are high. It negatively affects yield, quality, and downstream grain processing. Seed dormancy is a trait related to PHS. Longer seed dormancy is preferred for rice production as it can prevent PHS. Here, we map QTLs associated with rice seed dormancy and clone Seed Dormancy 3.1 (SDR3.1) underlying one major QTL. SDR3.1 encodes a mediator of OsbZIP46 deactivation and degradation (MODD). We show that SDR3.1 negatively regulates seed dormancy by inhibiting the transcriptional activity of ABIs. In addition, we reveal two critical amino acids of SDR3.1 that are critical for the differences in seed dormancy between the Xian/indica and Geng/japonica cultivars. Further, SDR3.1 has been artificially selected during rice domestication. We propose a two-line model for the process of rice seed dormancy domestication from wild rice to modern cultivars. We believe the candidate gene and germplasm studied in this study would be beneficial for the genetic improvement of rice seed dormancy.
Diffusible fraction of niche BMP ligand safeguards stem-cell differentiation
Authors: Ridwan Sharif M. , Twillie Autumn , Poursaeid Samaneh , Beard Emma Kristine , Bener Muhammed Burak , Antel Matthew , Cowan Ann E. , Matsuda Shinya , Inaba Mayu
Published: February 2024

Drosophila male germline stem cells (GSCs) reside at the tip of the testis and surround a cluster of niche cells. Decapentaplegic (Dpp) is one of the well-established ligands and has a major role in maintaining stem cells located in close proximity. However, the existence and the role of the diffusible fraction of Dpp outside of the niche have been unclear. Here, using genetically-encoded nanobodies called Morphotraps, we physically block Dpp diffusion without interfering with niche-stem cell signaling and find that a diffusible fraction of Dpp is required to ensure differentiation of GSC daughter cells, opposite of its role in maintenance of GSC in the niche. Our work provides an example in which a soluble niche ligand induces opposed cellular responses in stem cells versus in differentiating descendants to ensure spatial control of the niche. This may be a common mechanism to regulate tissue homeostasis.
Chemical, rheological, and sensorial properties of Baladi bread supplemented with buckwheat flour produced in Egypt
Authors: Hussein Ahmed M. S. , El-Aal Hala A. Abd , Morsy Nahla M. , Hassona Mohamed M.
Published: February 2024

This research aimed to enhance the nutritional and sensory qualities of Balady bread by adding locally Egyptian buckwheat flours, Fagopyrum esculentum (FE) and Fagopyrum tataricum (FT), to Hard Wheat Flour (HWF) 82% extraction at three levels (10%, 20%, and 30%). The chemical composition, rheological properties, color, sensory evaluation and stalling of the balady bread were determined. The chemical composition of raw materials revealed that FE was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher in protein and fat contents compared to HWF and FT. While FT was higher in fiber and ash contents. The findings show that a 30% replacement with FE or FT significantly enhances the bread's nutritional profile, notably increasing protein, fiber, ash, and moisture content. Rheological analysis revealed that FE and FT alter dough handling, with a notable improvement in dough stability and mixing tolerance at 30% FT. Sensory evaluation indicated acceptable qualities even at higher substitution levels, although 30% FE showed slight declines in certain attributes. Furthermore, bread supplemented with 30% FT demonstrated slower staling and potentially extended shelf life. These results highlight the potential of FE and FT as nutritional enhancers in bread formulations, with 30% FT emerging as the optimal replacement level for balancing nutritional benefits and sensory acceptance.
Macroscale coupling between structural and effective connectivity in the mouse brain
Authors: Benozzo Danilo , Baron Giorgia , Coletta Ludovico , Chiuso Alessandro , Gozzi Alessandro , Bertoldo Alessandra
Published: February 2024

Exploring how the emergent functional connectivity (FC) relates to the underlying anatomy (structural connectivity, SC) is one of the major goals of modern neuroscience. At the macroscale level, no one-to-one correspondence between structural and functional links seems to exist. And we posit that to better understand their coupling, two key aspects should be considered: the directionality of the structural connectome and limitations in explaining networks functions through an undirected measure such as FC. Here, we employed an accurate directed SC of the mouse brain acquired through viral tracers and compared it with single-subject effective connectivity (EC) matrices derived from a dynamic causal model (DCM) applied to whole-brain resting-state fMRI data. We analyzed how SC deviates from EC and quantified their respective couplings by conditioning on the strongest SC links and EC links. We found that when conditioning on the strongest EC links, the obtained coupling follows the unimodal-transmodal functional hierarchy. Whereas the reverse is not true, as there are strong SC links within high-order cortical areas with no corresponding strong EC links. This mismatch is even more clear across networks; only within sensory motor networks did we observe connections that align in terms of both effective and structural strength.
MICAL2 implies immunosuppressive features and acts as an independent and adverse prognostic biomarker in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Liu Zhicheng , Sun Bing , Xu Aiguo , Tang Jingjiao , Zhang Huiqin , Gao Jie , Wang Lei
Published: February 2024

At present, clinical outcomes of pancreatic cancer patients are still poor. New therapeutic targets for pancreatic cancer are urgently needed. Previous studies have indicated that Microtubule Associated Monooxygenase, Calponin and LIM Domain Containing 2 (MICAL2) is highly expressed in many tumors and promotes tumor progression. However, the role played by MICAL2 in pancreatic cancer remains unclear. Based on gene expression and clinical information from multiple datasets, we used comprehensive bioinformatics analysis in combination with tissue microarray to explore the function and clinical value of MICAL2. The results showed that MICAL2 was highly expressed in pancreatic cancer tissue and exhibited potential diagnostic capability. High expression of MICAL2 was also associated with poor prognosis and acted as an independent prognostic factor. MICAL2, mainly expressed in fibroblasts of pancreatic cancer, was closely related to metastasis and immune-related features, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, extracellular cell matrix degradation, and inflammatory response. Furthermore, higher MICAL2 expression in pancreatic cancer was also associated with an increase in cancer-associated fibroblasts as well as M2 macrophage infiltration, and a reduction in CD8 + T cell infiltration, thereby facilitating the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Our results helped elucidate the clinical value and function in metastasis and immunity of MICAL2 in pancreatic cancer. These findings provided potential clinical strategies for diagnosis, targeted therapy combination immunotherapy, and prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Psilocybin-induced changes in neural reactivity to alcohol and emotional cues in patients with alcohol use disorder: an fMRI pilot study
Authors: Pagni B. A. , Petridis P. D. , Podrebarac S. K. , Grinband J. , Claus E. D. , Bogenschutz M. P.
Published: February 2024

This pilot study investigated psilocybin-induced changes in neural reactivity to alcohol and emotional cues in patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Participants were recruited from a phase II, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial investigating psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) for the treatment of AUD (NCT02061293). Eleven adult patients completed task-based blood oxygen dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) approximately 3 days before and 2 days after receiving 25 mg of psilocybin (n = 5) or 50 mg of diphenhydramine (n = 6). Visual alcohol and emotionally valanced (positive, negative, or neutral) stimuli were presented in block design. Across both alcohol and emotional cues, psilocybin increased activity in the medial and lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) and left caudate, and decreased activity in the insular, motor, temporal, parietal, and occipital cortices, and cerebellum. Unique to negative cues, psilocybin increased supramarginal gyrus activity; unique to positive cues, psilocybin increased right hippocampus activity and decreased left hippocampus activity. Greater PFC and caudate engagement and concomitant insula, motor, and cerebellar disengagement suggests enhanced goal-directed action, improved emotional regulation, and diminished craving. The robust changes in brain activity observed in this pilot study warrant larger neuroimaging studies to elucidate neural mechanisms of PAT.

Trial registration: NCT02061293.
Differential effects of the venoms of Russell’s viper and Indian cobra on human myoblasts
Authors: Bin Haidar Husain , Almeida José R. , Williams Jarred , Guo Bokai , Bigot Anne , Senthilkumaran Subramanian , Vaiyapuri Sakthivel , Patel Ketan
Published: February 2024

Local tissue damage following snakebite envenoming remains a poorly researched area. To develop better strategies to treat snakebites, it is critical to understand the mechanisms through which venom toxins induce envenomation effects including local tissue damage. Here, we demonstrate how the venoms of two medically important Indian snakes (Russell's viper and cobra) affect human skeletal muscle using a cultured human myoblast cell line. The data suggest that both venoms affect the viability of myoblasts. Russell’s viper venom reduced the total number of cells, their migration, and the area of focal adhesions. It also suppressed myogenic differentiation and induced muscle atrophy. While cobra venom decreased the viability, it did not largely affect cell migration and focal adhesions. Cobra venom affected the formation of myotubes and induced atrophy. Cobra venom-induced atrophy could not be reversed by small molecule inhibitors such as varespladib (a phospholipase A2 inhibitor) and prinomastat (a metalloprotease inhibitor), and soluble activin type IIb receptor (a molecule used to promote regeneration of skeletal muscle), although the antivenom (raised against the Indian ‘Big Four’ snakes) has attenuated the effects. However, all these molecules rescued the myotubes from Russell’s viper venom-induced atrophy. This study demonstrates key steps in the muscle regeneration process that are affected by both Indian Russell’s viper and cobra venoms and offers insights into the potential causes of clinical features displayed in envenomed victims. Further research is required to investigate the molecular mechanisms of venom-induced myotoxicity under in vivo settings and develop better therapies for snakebite-induced muscle damage.
In situ monolayer patch clamp of acutely stimulated human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes promotes consistent electrophysiological responses to SK channel inhibition
Authors: Butler Andrew S. , Ascione Raimondo , Marrion Neil V. , Harmer Stephen C. , Hancox Jules C.
Published: February 2024

Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) represent an in vitro model of cardiac function. Isolated iPSC-CMs, however, exhibit electrophysiological heterogeneity which hinders their utility in the study of certain cardiac currents. In the healthy adult heart, the current mediated by small conductance, calcium-activated potassium (SK) channels (ISK) is atrial-selective. Functional expression of ISK within atrial-like iPSC-CMs has not been explored thoroughly. The present study therefore aimed to investigate atrial-like iPSC-CMs as a model system for the study of ISK. iPSCs were differentiated using retinoic acid (RA) to produce iPSC-CMs which exhibited an atrial-like phenotype (RA-iPSC-CMs). Only 18% of isolated RA-iPSC-CMs responded to SK channel inhibition by UCL1684 and isolated iPSC-CMs exhibited substantial cell-to-cell electrophysiological heterogeneity. This variability was significantly reduced by patch clamp of RA-iPSC-CMs in situ as a monolayer (iPSC-ML). A novel method of electrical stimulation was developed to facilitate recording from iPSC-MLs via In situ Monolayer Patch clamp of Acutely Stimulated iPSC-CMs (IMPASC). Using IMPASC, > 95% of iPSC-MLs could be paced at a 1 Hz. In contrast to isolated RA-iPSC-CMs, 100% of RA-iPSC-MLs responded to UCL1684, with APD50 being prolonged by 16.0 ± 2.0 ms (p < 0.0001; n = 12). These data demonstrate that in conjunction with IMPASC, RA-iPSC-MLs represent an improved model for the study of ISK. IMPASC may be of wider value in the study of other ion channels that are inconsistently expressed in isolated iPSC-CMs and in pharmacological studies.
C5a–C5AR1 axis as a potential trigger of the rupture of intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Okada Akihiro , Shimizu Kampei , Kawashima Akitsugu , Kayahara Tomomichi , Itani Masahiko , Kurita Hiroki , Miyamoto Susumu , Kataoka Hiroharu , Aoki Tomohiro
Published: February 2024

Recent studies have indicated the involvement of neutrophil-mediated inflammatory responses in the process leading to intracranial aneurysm (IA) rupture. Receptors mediating neutrophil recruitment could thus be therapeutic targets of unruptured IAs. In this study, complement C5a receptor 1 (C5AR1) was picked up as a candidate that may cause neutrophil-dependent inflammation in IA lesions from comprehensive gene expression profile data acquired from rat and human samples. The induction of C5AR1 in IA lesions was confirmed by immunohistochemistry; the up-regulations of C5AR1/C5ar1 stemmed from infiltrated neutrophils, which physiologically express C5AR1/C5ar1, and adventitial fibroblasts that induce C5AR1/C5ar1 in human/rat IA lesions. In in vitro experiments using NIH/3T3, a mouse fibroblast-like cell line, induction of C5ar1 was demonstrated by starvation or pharmacological inhibition of mTOR signaling by Torin1. Immunohistochemistry and an experiment in a cell-free system using recombinant C5 protein and recombinant Plasmin indicated that the ligand of C5AR1, C5a, could be produced through the enzymatic digestion by Plasmin in IA lesions. In conclusion, we have identified a potential contribution of the C5a–C5AR1 axis to neutrophil infiltration as well as inflammatory responses in inflammatory cells and fibroblasts of IA lesions. This cascade may become a therapeutic target to prevent the rupture of IAs.
First neurotranscriptome of adults Tambaquis (Colossoma macropomum) with characterization and differential expression between males and females
Authors: Miranda Josy , Veneza Ivana , Ferreira Charles , Santana Paula , Lutz Italo , Furtado Carolina , Pereira Patrick , Rabelo Luan , Guerreiro-Diniz Cristovam , Melo Mauro , Sampaio Iracilda , Vallinoto Marcelo , Evangelista-Gomes Grazielle
Published: February 2024

The Tambaqui is one of the most representative Amazon fish species, being highly exploited in fisheries, aquaculture and as a research model. Nonetheless, data about functional genome are still required to evaluate reproductive and nutrition parameters as well as resistance to pathogens. The of next-generation sequencing has allows assessing the transcriptional processes in non-model species by providing comprehensive gene collections to be used as a database in further genomic applications and increased performance of captive populations. In this study, we relied on RNAseq approach to generate the first transcriptome of the telencephalon from adult males and females of Colossoma macropomum, resulting in a reference dataset for future functional studies. We retrieved 896,238 transcripts, including the identification of 267,785 contigs and 203,790 genes. From this total, 91 transcripts were differentially expressed, being 63 and 28 of them positively regulated for females and males, respectively. The functional annotation resulted in a library of 40 candidate genes for females and 20 for males. The functional enrichment classes comprised reproductive processes (GO:0,048,609; GO:0,003,006; GO:0,044,703; GO:0,032,504; GO:0,019,953) being related to sex differentiation (e.g., SAFB) and immune response (e.g., SLC2A6, AHNAK, NLRC3, NLRP3 and IgC MHC I alpha3), thus indicating that the genes in the neurotranscriptome of Tambaqui participate in sex differentiation and homeostasis of captive specimens. These data are useful to design the selection of genes related to sex determination and animal welfare in raising systems of Tambaqui.
The inhibition effects of Lentilactobacillus buchneri-derived membrane vesicles on AGS and HT-29 cancer cells by inducing cell apoptosis
Authors: Abedi Adel , Tafvizi Farzaneh , Jafari Parvaneh , Akbari Neda
Published: February 2024

In recent years, probiotics and their derivatives have been recognized as important therapeutic agents in the fight against cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the anticancer effects of membrane vesicles (MVs) from Lentilactobacillus buchneri strain HBUM07105 probiotic isolated from conventional and unprocessed yogurt in Arak province, Iran, against gastric and colon cancer cell lines. The MVs were prepared from the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of L. buchneri and characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and SPS-PAGE techniques. The anticancer activity of MVs was evaluated using MTT, flow cytometry, qRT-PCR techniques, and a scratch assay. The study investigated the anti-adenocarcinoma effect of MVs isolated from L. buchneri on a human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line (AGS) and a human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29) at 24, 48, and 72-h time intervals. The results demonstrated that all prepared concentrations (12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL) of MVs reduced the viability of both types of human adenocarcinoma cells after 24, 48, and 72 h of treatment. The analysis of the apoptosis results revealed that the percentage of AGS and HT-29 cancer cells in the early and late stages of apoptosis was significantly higher after 24, 48, and 72 h of treatment compared to the untreated cancer cells. After treating both AGS and HT-29 cells with the MVs, the cells were arrested in the G0/G1 phase. These microvesicles demonstrate apoptotic activity by increasing the expression of pro-apoptotic genes (BAX, CASP3, and CASP9). According to the scratch test, MVs can significantly decrease the migration of HT-29 and AGS cancer cells after 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation compared to the control groups. The MVs of L. buchneri can also be considered a potential option for inhibiting cancer cell activities.
Analysing pharmacodynamic interactions of traditional Chinese medicine in treating acute pancreatitis based on OPLS method
Authors: Nie Bin , Yu Riyue , Xu Guoliang , Chen Yinfang , Deng Chunhui , Du Jianqiang
Published: February 2024

The pharmacological indicators such as LFA1a, the explanatory power of pharmacological substances is limited, however, the explanatory power of the other pharmacological indicators is good.
Solution-based electrostatic self-assembly route for obtaining graphene–transition metal dichalcogenide heterostructures
Authors: Lobo Kenneth , Sumbe Priyanka R. , More Mahendra A. , Late Dattatray J. , Ramakrishna Matte H. S. S.
Published: February 2024

Liquid exfoliation in cationic and anionic surfactants produces nanosheets of 2D materials which are flocculated into heterostructures through electrostatic assembly by simple mixing.
A heptanuclear {Dy2Cu5} complex as a single-molecule magnet
Authors: Mičová Romana , Rajnák Cyril , Titiš Ján , Moncoľ Ján , Nováčiková Jana , Bieńko Alina , Boča Roman
Published: February 2024

The hetero-bimetallic complex [(H2O)6DyIII2(μ2-L1)2(μ3-O)4CuII5(μ2-Cl)2] is a single-molecule magnet that shows SMR even in the absence of an external magnetic field. At BDC = 0.1 T and 0.2 T, three or two relaxation channels are present.
A stable Mn(ii) coordination polymer demonstrating proton conductivity and quantitative sensing of oxytetracycline in aquaculture
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhang Yana , Li Xin , Yu Jiahui , Chi Weijia , Wang Zikang , Zheng Hanwen , Sun Zhengang , Zhu Yanyu , Jiao Chengqi
Published: February 2024

The dual–functional Mn–CP not only exhibits relatively high proton conductivity of 1.07 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 368 K and 95% RH, but displays turn-off and quantitative luminescent sensing of OTC in actural aquaculture systems with satisfactory recoveries.
Design and construction of hollow metal sulfide/selenide core–shell heterostructure arrays for hybrid supercapacitor
Authors: Cui Shuangxing , Li Guochang , Xiao Xunwen , Wu Lei , Han Lei
Published: February 2024

NiSe2@Co9S8 and Co0.85Se@Co9S8 hollow core–shell heterostructures were prepared by electrodeposition and demonstrated outstanding areal capacitance values of 12.54 F cm−2 and 9.61 F cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2, respectively.
Unveiling the role of linear alkyl organic cations in 2D layered tin halide perovskite field-effect transistors
Authors: Wang Shuanglong , Kalyanasundaram Shankeerthan , Gao Lei , Ling Zhitian , Zhou Zhiwen , Bonn Mischa , Blom Paul W. M. , Wang Hai I. , Pisula Wojciech , Marszalek Tomasz
Published: February 2024

2D tin halide perovskites are promising semiconductors for FETs owing to their fascinating electronic properties. The charge transport properties of 2D tin halide perovskites are systematically investigated using linear alkyl ammonium cations with different carbon chain lengths.
Spontaneous thermal energy transfer and anti-gravitational water pumping using Al2O3 fiber-enhanced flexible nonwoven material as a high-performance and self-floating solar evaporator
Authors: Dai Jiamu , Wang Hang , Yang Xiaochuan , Lan Liujia , Li Suying , Zhang Guangyu , Li Ruiqing , Nie Du , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2024

A self-floating solar evaporator with an all-fiber based structure is prepared. The bi-bridge effect of Al2O3 fiber channel provides great thermal conduction and water supply to achieve a high evaporation rate.
A double-crack structure for bionic wearable strain sensors with ultra-high sensitivity and a wide sensing range
Authors: Zhu Di , Duan Shengshun , Liu Jiachen , Diao Shanyan , Hong Jianlong , Xiang Shengxin , Wei Xiao , Xiao Peng , Xia Jun , Lei Wei , Wang Baoping , Shi Qiongfeng , Wu Jun
Published: February 2024

Benefiting from the double-crack structure, sensors show ultra-high sensitivity, a wide working range and great value in the human–machine interaction.