bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of a deep-branching thermophilic clade sheds light on early bacterial evolution
Authors: Leng Hao , Wang Yinzhao , Zhao Weishu , Sievert Stefan M. , Xiao Xiang 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIt has been proposed that early bacteria, or even the last universal common ancestor of all cells, were thermophilic. However, research on the origin and evolution of thermophily is hampered by the difficulties associated with the isolation of deep-branching thermophilic microorganisms in pure culture. Here, we isolate a deep-branching thermophilic bacterium from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent, using a two-step cultivation strategy (“Subtraction-Suboptimal”, StS) designed to isolate rare organisms. The bacterium, which we name Zhurongbacter thermophilus 3DAC, is a sulfur-reducing heterotroph that is phylogenetically related to Coprothermobacterota and other thermophilic bacterial groups, forming a clade that seems to represent a major, early-diverging bacterial lineage. The ancestor of this clade might be a thermophilic, strictly anaerobic, motile, hydrogen-dependent, and mixotrophic bacterium. Thus, our study provides insights into the early evolution of thermophilic bacteria.
Plug & play origami modules with all-purpose deformation modes
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhang Zhuang , Peng Yun , Zhang Yanlin , An Siqi , Wang Yunjie , Zhai Zirui , Xu Yan , Jiang Hanqing 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThree basic deformation modes of an object (bending, twisting, and contraction/extension) along with their various combinations and delicate controls lead to diverse locomotion. As a result, seeking mechanisms to achieve simple to complex deformation modes in a controllable manner is a focal point in related engineering fields. Here, a pneumatic-driven, origami-based deformation unit that offers all-purpose deformation modes, namely, three decoupled basic motion types and four combinations of these three basic types, with seven distinct motion modes in total through one origami module, was created and precisely controlled through various pressurization schemes. These all-purpose origami-based modules can be readily assembled as needed, even during operation, which enables plug-and-play characteristics. These origami modules with all-purpose deformation modes offer unprecedented opportunities for soft robots in performing complex tasks, which were successfully demonstrated in this work.
Hearing of malaria mosquitoes is modulated by a beta-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor which serves as insecticide target
Authors: Georgiades Marcos , Alampounti Alexandros , Somers Jason , Su Matthew P. , Ellis David A. , Bagi Judit , Terrazas-Duque Daniela , Tytheridge Scott , Ntabaliba Watson , Moore Sarah , Albert Joerg T. , Andrés Marta 
Published: July 2023

AbstractMalaria mosquitoes acoustically detect their mating partners within large swarms that form transiently at dusk. Indeed, male malaria mosquitoes preferably respond to female flight tones during swarm time. This phenomenon implies a sophisticated context- and time-dependent modulation of mosquito audition, the mechanisms of which are largely unknown. Using transcriptomics, we identify a complex network of candidate neuromodulators regulating mosquito hearing in the speciesAnopheles gambiae. Among them, octopamine stands out as an auditory modulator during swarm time. In-depth analysis of octopamine auditory function shows that it affects the mosquito ear on multiple levels: it modulates the tuning and stiffness of the flagellar sound receiver and controls the erection of antennal fibrillae. We show that two α- and β-adrenergic-like octopamine receptors drive octopamine’s auditory roles and demonstrate that the octopaminergic auditory control system can be targeted by insecticides. Our findings highlight octopamine as key for mosquito hearing and mating partner detection and as a potential novel target for mosquito control.
Mitochondria-derived peptide SHLP2 regulates energy homeostasis through the activation of hypothalamic neurons
Authors: Kim Seul Ki , Tran Le Trung , NamKoong Cherl , Choi Hyung Jin , Chun Hye Jin , Lee Yong-ho , Cheon MyungHyun , Chung ChiHye , Hwang Junmo , Lim Hyun-Ho , Shin Dong Min , Choi Yun-Hee , Kim Ki Woo 
Published: July 2023

AbstractSmall humanin-like peptide 2 (SHLP2) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide implicated in several biological processes such as aging and oxidative stress. However, its functional role in the regulation of energy homeostasis remains unclear, and its corresponding receptor is not identified. Hereby, we demonstrate that both systemic and intracerebroventricular (ICV) administrations of SHLP2 protected the male mice from high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and improved insulin sensitivity. In addition, the activation of pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons by SHLP2 in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) is involved in the suppression of food intake and the promotion of thermogenesis. Through high-throughput structural complementation screening, we discovered that SHLP2 binds to and activates chemokine receptor 7 (CXCR7). Taken together, our study not only reveals the therapeutic potential of SHLP2 in metabolic disorders but also provides important mechanistic insights into how it exerts its effects on energy homeostasis.
Re-expression of CA1 and entorhinal activity patterns preserves temporal context memory at long timescales
Authors: Zou Futing , Wanjia Guo , Allen Emily J. , Wu Yihan , Charest Ian , Naselaris Thomas , Kay Kendrick , Kuhl Brice A. , Hutchinson J. Benjamin , DuBrow Sarah 
Published: July 2023

AbstractConverging, cross-species evidence indicates that memory for time is supported by hippocampal area CA1 and entorhinal cortex. However, limited evidence characterizes how these regions preserve temporal memories over long timescales (e.g., months). At long timescales, memoranda may be encountered in multiple temporal contexts, potentially creating interference. Here, using 7T fMRI, we measured CA1 and entorhinal activity patterns as human participants viewed thousands of natural scene images distributed, and repeated, across many months. We show that memory for an image’s original temporal context was predicted by the degree to which CA1/entorhinal activity patterns from the first encounter with an image were re-expressed during re-encounters occurring minutes to months later. Critically, temporal memory signals were dissociable from predictors of recognition confidence, which were carried by distinct medial temporal lobe expressions. These findings suggest that CA1 and entorhinal cortex preserve temporal memories across long timescales by coding for and reinstating temporal context information.
Highly specific and non-invasive imaging of Piezo1-dependent activity across scales using GenEPi
Authors: Yaganoglu Sine , Kalyviotis Konstantinos , Vagena-Pantoula Christina , Jülich Dörthe , Gaub Benjamin M. , Welling Maaike , Lopes Tatiana , Lachowski Dariusz , Tang See Swee , Del Rio Hernandez Armando , Salem Victoria , Müller Daniel J. , Holley Scott A. , Vermot Julien , Shi Jian , Helassa Nordine , Török Katalin , Pantazis Periklis 
Published: July 2023

AbstractMechanosensing is a ubiquitous process to translate external mechanical stimuli into biological responses. Piezo1 ion channels are directly gated by mechanical forces and play an essential role in cellular mechanotransduction. However, readouts of Piezo1 activity are mainly examined by invasive or indirect techniques, such as electrophysiological analyses and cytosolic calcium imaging. Here, we introduce GenEPi, a genetically-encoded fluorescent reporter for non-invasive optical monitoring of Piezo1-dependent activity. We demonstrate that GenEPi has high spatiotemporal resolution for Piezo1-dependent stimuli from the single-cell level to that of the entire organism. GenEPi reveals transient, local mechanical stimuli in the plasma membrane of single cells, resolves repetitive contraction-triggered stimulation of beating cardiomyocytes within microtissues, and allows for robust and reliable monitoring of Piezo1-dependent activity in vivo. GenEPi will enable non-invasive optical monitoring of Piezo1 activity in mechanochemical feedback loops during development, homeostatic regulation, and disease.
Mechanical properties and crack evolution characteristics of fractured rock with hidden fissures
Authors: Ban Yuxin , Chen Lihong , Xie Qiang , Duan Jun , He Chunbo , Xue Xiaoqiang , Fu Xiang 
Published: July 2023

AbstractNatural defects, such as joints, structural surfaces and voids, significantly affect the mechanical properties and fracture modes of rock mass. Hidden fissures are widely distributed in magmatic rock, while their influences on the mechanical properties and the cracking mechanism are still unclear. Laboratory tests were conducted on prefabricating hidden-fissured rock-like specimens, as well as intact specimens and close-fissured specimens as a comparison. The real-time digital image correlation technology and acoustic emission monitoring technology were synchronously adopted to capture both the external and internal cracking process. The results show that the hidden fissures can weaken the uniaxial compression strength, while the deterioration effect of hidden fissures is weaker than closed fissures due to the internal cohesion among fissure internal particles. What’s more, the initiation behavior of the α = 90° hidden-fissured specimen is different from that of β = 90° closed-fissured specimen. Finally, the cracking mechanism of hidden-fissured specimens was revealed by analyzing the RA–AF relationship. The failure of the close-fissured specimens is mainly the tensile-shear mixed fracture mode, while the failure of the hidden-fissured specimens is mainly the tensile fracture mode and supplemented by the shear. The experimental results contribute to the understanding of cracking properties in hidden-fissured rock.
A high-gain dual-band shared-aperture array integrating zero-order-resonance patch and higher-order metasurface antenna
Authors: Chen Qian , Cheng You-Feng , Shao Chen-Hao , Feng Ju , Liao Cheng , Ding Xiao 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThis letter proposes a high-gain shared-aperture array for vehicular communications which integrates the hybrid zeroth-order-resonance (ZOR) patch and the higher-order metasurface antenna (MA). In terms of each array element, four hybrid ZOR patches with shorting pins form a metasurface which is fed by slot coupling. Different from some reported designs which have more high-frequency elements than low-frequency ones, the whole array is composed of 4 $$\times$$
×
4 hybrid ZOR patches operating in C band (4.74–5.12 GHz) and 2 $$\times$$
×
2 MAs working in Ku band (13.0–14.0 GHz). Such a layout brings that the designed array has the benefit to reduce Ku-band loss. Measure results validate the dual-band operation and show that the antenna has its peak gains of 12.7 dBi and 17.2 dBi in these two bands, respectively, which can support vehicle-to-base station and vehicle-to-satellite communications.
Uncertainty analysis and optimization of laser thermal pain treatment
Authors: Liu Honghua , She Chang , Huang Zhiliang , Wei Lei , Li Qian , Peng Han , Liu Mailan 
Published: July 2023

AbstractUncertainty in operating parameters during laser thermal pain treatment can yield unreliable results. To ensure reliability and effectiveness, we performed uncertainty analysis and optimization on these parameters. Firstly, we conducted univariate analysis to identify significant operational parameters. Next, an agent model using RBNN regression determined the relationship between these parameters, the constraint function, and the target function. Using interval uncertainty analysis, we obtained confidence distributions and established a nonlinear interval optimization model. Introducing RPDI transformed the model into a deterministic optimization approach. Solving this with a genetic algorithm yielded an optimal solution. The results demonstrate that this solution significantly enhances treatment efficacy while ensuring temperature control stability and reliability. Accounting for parameter uncertainties is crucial for achieving dependable and effective laser thermal pain treatment. These findings have important implications for advancing the clinical application of this treatment and enhancing patient outcomes.
Experimental generation of fulgurite under realistic lightning discharge conditions
Authors: Çalışkanoğlu A. Zeynep , Camara Alessandra S. B. , Cimarelli Corrado , Dingwell Donald B. , Hess Kai-Uwe 
Published: July 2023

AbstractFulgurites have been documented in geological deposits from throughout Earth's history. They have also been assigned a potential role in prebiotic chemistry as a source of reactants. Fulgurites are generated in nature by cloud-to-ground lightning strikes. The unpredictability in space and time of the occurrence of lightning events has limited the investigation of both the mechanisms by, and the conditions under, which fulgurites form. A laboratory-based approach can mitigate these limitations. Here, we describe experimentally generated fulgurites generated from Laacher See volcanic ash. We employ a DC source with a trigger-pulse setup in a high voltage laboratory, whose capabilities enable experimental conditions that correspond closely to the electrical characteristics of natural lightning strikes. The experimentally generated fulgurites closely resemble naturally-occurring fulgurites in both state and texture. These experimental investigations yield a high reproducibility of the characteristic of fulgurites generated under well-constrained conditions, enabling some inferences to be made regarding the processes involved in the generation of fulgurites in nature. This work provides a basis for a systematic characterization of experimental fulgurites and the characteristic of lightning discharges.
Quantum secure metrology for network sensing-based applications
Authors: Rahim Muhammad Talha , Khan Awais , Khalid Uman , Rehman Junaid ur , Jung Haejoon , Shin Hyundong 
Published: July 2023

AbstractQuantum secure metrology protocols harness quantum effects to probe remote systems with enhanced precision and security. Traditional QSM protocols require multi-partite entanglement, which limits its near-term implementation due to technological constraints. This paper proposes a QSM scheme that employs Bell pairs to provide unconditional security while offering precision scaling beyond the standard quantum limit. We provide a detailed comparative performance analysis of our proposal under multiple attacks. We found that the employed controlled encoding strategy is far better than the parallel encoding of multi-partite entangled states with regard to the secrecy of the parameter. We also identify and characterize an intrinsic trade-off relationship between the maximum achievable precision and security under the limited availability of resources. The dynamic scalability of the proposed protocol makes it suitable for large-scale network sensing scenarios.
Microfluidic-based prostate cancer model for investigating the secretion of prostate-specific antigen and microRNAs in vitro
Authors: Padmyastuti Adventina , Sarmiento Marina Garcia , Dib Maria , Ehrhardt Jens , Schoon Janosch , Somova Maryna , Burchardt Martin , Roennau Cindy , Pinto Pedro Caetano 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThe study of prostate cancer in vitro relies on established cell lines that lack important physiological characteristics, such as proper polarization and expression of relevant biomarkers. Microphysiological systems (MPS) can replicate cancer microenvironments and lead to cellular phenotypic changes that better represent organ physiology in vitro. In this study, we developed an MPS model comprising conventional prostate cancer cells to evaluate their activity under dynamic culture conditions. Androgen-sensitive (LNCaP) and androgen-insensitive (PC3) cells were grown in conventional and 3D cultures, both static and dynamic. Cell morphology, the secretion of prostate-specific antigen, and the expression of key prostate markers and microRNAs were analyzed. LNCaP formed spheroids in 3D and MPS cultures, with morphological changes supported by the upregulation of cytokeratins and adhesion proteins. LNCaP also maintained a constant prostate-specific antigen secretion in MPS. PC3 cells did not develop complex structures in 3D and MPS cultures. PSA expression at the gene level was downregulated in LNCaP-MPS and considerably upregulated in PC3-MPS. MicroRNA expression was altered by the 3D static and dynamic culture, both intra- and extracellularly. MicroRNAs associated with prostate cancer progression were mostly upregulated in LNCaP-MPS. Overall dynamic cell culture substantially altered the morphology and expression of LNCaP cells, arguably augmenting their prostate cancer phenotype. This novel approach demonstrates that microRNA expression in prostate cancer cells is sensitive to external stimuli and that MPS can effectively promote important physiological changes in conventional prostate cancer models.
Mutations observed in somatic evolution reveal underlying gene mechanisms
Authors: Hall Michael W. J. , Shorthouse David , Alcraft Rachel , Jones Philip H. , Hall Benjamin A. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractHighly sensitive DNA sequencing techniques have allowed the discovery of large numbers of somatic mutations in normal tissues. Some mutations confer a competitive advantage over wild-type cells, generating expanding clones that spread through the tissue. Competition between mutant clones leads to selection. This process can be considered a large scale, in vivo screen for mutations increasing cell fitness. It follows that somatic missense mutations may offer new insights into the relationship between protein structure, function and cell fitness. We present a flexible statistical method for exploring the selection of structural features in data sets of somatic mutants. We show how this approach can evidence selection of specific structural features in key drivers in aged tissues. Finally, we show how drivers may be classified as fitness-enhancing and fitness-suppressing through different patterns of mutation enrichment. This method offers a route to understanding the mechanism of protein function through in vivo mutant selection.
Die Rolle von Schlafproblemen in der muskuloskelettalen
Physiotherapie – Teil 2: Insomnie
Authors: Runge Nils , Suckow Melanie 
Published: July 2023

ZusammenfassungInsomnie ist die am häufigsten vorkommende Schlaferkrankung in der
Allgemeinbevölkerung und bei Menschen mit chronischen Schmerzen. Da die
momentane Studienlage einen deutlichen Zusammenhang zwischen Schlafproblemen und
Schmerzen zeigt, ist es relevant, dass Physiotherapeut*innen ein
Basiswissen zu dieser Problematik haben, um Patient*innen mit
chronischen Schmerzen optimal zu betreuen. In diesem Artikel stellen die
Autor*innen ein Grundlagenmodell zur Entstehung und Chronifizierung der
Insomnie vor und geben Einblicke in die nicht medikamentöse Therapie
dieses Krankheitsbildes. Ziel ist es, Physiotherapeut*innen für
dieses Thema zu sensibilisieren und aufzuzeigen, welche Rolle die Physiotherapie
bei der Behandlung der Insomnie spielen könnte.
Feasibility and Safety of Bedside Percutaneous Catheter Drainage of Necrotic Pancreatic Fluid Collections in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Gupta Pankaj , Sehgal Shreya , Gupta Jyoti , Samanta Jayanta , Mandavdhare Harshal , Sharma Vishal , Dutta Usha , Kochhar Rakesh , Sandhu Manavjit Singh 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Purpose Critically ill patients with acute pancreatitis (AP) require intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The management of pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) in this group is challenging. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of bedside percutaneous ultrasound (USG)-guided interventions in necrotic PFC in ICU patients.
Methods This retrospective study comprised consecutive patients with AP in the ICU who underwent bedside USG-guided interventions for necrotic PFC. Indications for intervention, technical success, clinical success, and complications were recorded. The site, number, and size of catheters were recorded. Clinical outcomes were assessed.
Results Thirty-three patients (mean age, 38.1 years, 15 females) were included. All patients had nonresolving organ failure and were on mechanical ventilation. The mean pain to percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD interval was 42.2 days (range, 7–167 days). All the procedures were technically successful, and none of the patients required shifting to the interventional radiology suite for computed tomography guidance. PCD was clinically successful in 40% of the patients. There were no major complications. The mean length of hospital stay and ICU stay was 35 days (range, 6–69 days) and 13 days (range, 1–63 days), respectively. Six (17.1%) patients underwent necrosectomy. Sixteen (45.7%) patients died in the hospital.
Conclusion USG-guided bedside PCD can be performed safely with high technical success in the ICU setting.
Investigating the performance of susceptibility-weighted images in Fricke gel dosimeter reading and optimizing the related imaging parameters
Authors: Elmtalab Soheil , Ghazi Mir Saeid Seyedeh Fereshteh , Rad Hamidreza Saligheh , Geraily Ghazale 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Fricke gel dosimeters are especially useful in small-field dosimetry and validation of treatment delivery in three-dimensional space with features such as tissue equivalence, non-toxicity, high spatial resolution, non-dependence on energy, and dose rate. The use of basic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) protocols (T1- and T2-Weighted) for reading Fricke gel dosimeters has always been considered the dominant method in many studies. However, the development and application of advanced MRI techniques for more accurate readings of Fricke gel dosimeters can be useful. Considering that in the main structure of Fricke gel, there are conversions of iron ions to each other, this study aimed to investigate the performance of Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging (SWI) and Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) based on magnetic susceptibility in the reading of Fricke gel dosimeters and to optimize the related imaging parameters. For this purpose, a Fricke-Xylenol orange-gelatin was made at five concentrations of iron ammonium sulfate. To obtain gel dosimeter calibration curves, vials containing gel were subjected to irradiation at three different doses by a linear accelerator. The reading of gel dosimeters was performed using MRI imaging in three protocols, T1W, T2W, and SWI, and analyzed with a method unique to each one. Finally, the results obtained from the three protocols were compared with each other. The comparison of calibration curves in three imaging protocols shows that the sensitivity of calibration curves in SWI was about three times its value in T2W, and on the other hand, the reported sensitivity in T1W was very small compared to the other two protocols. The linearity factor was similar between SWI and T1W protocols and higher in T2W. Therefore, it is concluded that in addition to the relaxometry techniques that have been used as a conventional method for reading Fricke gel dosimeter, SWI imaging has high sensitivity and specificity for reading dosimeter gel based on iron.