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Structural insights into the LGR4-RSPO2-ZNRF3 complexes regulating WNT/β-catenin signaling

Current food trade helps mitigate future climate change impacts in lower-income nations

The risk of national food supply disruptions is linked to both domestic production and food imports. But assessments of climate change risks for food systems typically focus on the impacts on domestic production, ignoring climate impacts in supplying regions. Here, we use global crop modeling data in combination with current trade flows to evaluate potential climate change impacts on national food supply, comparing impacts on domestic production alone (domestic production impacts) to impacts considering how climate change impacts production in all source regions (consumption impact). Under 2°C additional global mean warming over present day, our analysis highlights that climate impacts on national supply are aggravated for 53% high income and 56% upper medium income countries and mitigated for 60% low- and 71% low-medium income countries under consumption-based impacts compared to domestic impacts alone. We find that many countries are reliant on a few mega-exporters who mediate these climate impacts. Managing the risk of climate change for national food security requires a global perspective, considering not only how national production is affected, but also how climate change affects trading partners.

Construction of a troublemaking risk assessment tool for patients with severe mental disorders in community of China

Characterizing cell-type spatial relationships across length scales in spatially resolved omics data

AbstractSpatially resolved omics (SRO) technologies enable the identification of cell types while preserving their organization within tissues. Application of such technologies offers the opportunity to delineate cell-type spatial relationships, particularly across different length scales, and enhance our understanding of tissue organization and function. To quantify such multi-scale cell-type spatial relationships, we present CRAWDAD, Cell-type Relationship Analysis Workflow Done Across Distances, as an open-source R package. To demonstrate the utility of such multi-scale characterization, recapitulate expected cell-type spatial relationships, and evaluate against other cell-type spatial analyses, we apply CRAWDAD to various simulated and real SRO datasets of diverse tissues assayed by diverse SRO technologies. We further demonstrate how such multi-scale characterization enabled by CRAWDAD can be used to compare cell-type spatial relationships across multiple samples. Finally, we apply CRAWDAD to SRO datasets of the human spleen to identify consistent as well as patient and sample-specific cell-type spatial relationships. In general, we anticipate such multi-scale analysis of SRO data enabled by CRAWDAD will provide useful quantitative metrics to facilitate the identification, characterization, and comparison of cell-type spatial relationships across axes of interest.

Repellency and toxicity of long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets (LLINs) to bed bugs

Vector control is essential for eliminating malaria, a vector-borne parasitic disease responsible for over half a million deaths annually. Success of vector control programs hinges on community acceptance of products like long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs). Communities in malaria-endemic regions often link LLIN efficacy to their ability to control indoor pests such as bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L. and Cimex hemipterus (F.)) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae). Despite this, little is known about the potential repellent effects and toxicity of LLINs to bed bugs. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time that commonly deployed LLINs lack olfactory and contact-based repellency to host-seeking C. lectularius from both insecticide-susceptible and insecticide-resistant populations. One LLIN (PermaNet Dual) was significantly attractive to both populations when exposed olfactorily, but not in contact assays, highlighting the complexity of bed bug-LLIN interactions. The insecticide resistant bed bugs experienced low mortality in 4 d of continuous exposure to LLINs. These results suggest that LLINs would likely not repel or eliminate bed bug infestations in malaria-endemic communities, further selecting for insecticide resistance and potentially disrupting vector control programs.

Synthesis and crystal structure of piperidinyl propanenitrile towards the preparation of piperidine based bioactive films for drug delivery applications

AbstractCompounds containing the piperidine group are highly attractive as building blocks for designing new drugs. Functionalized piperidines are of significant interest due to their prevalence in the pharmaceutical field. Herein, 3-oxo-3-(piperidin-1-yl) propanenitrile has been synthesized, and piperidine-based sodium alginate/poly(vinyl alcohol) films have been prepared. The polymeric films display potency and potential for application to fight against microbial infections. The films could also help maintain interaction with tissue to ensure the controlled release of therapeutic molecules. Thus, they are promising in developing drug delivery systems essential in the pharmaceutical industry. The structure of the 3-oxo-3-(piperidin-1-yl)propanenitrile was confirmed via spectroscopic and single crystal x-ray diffraction techniques. A homogenous solution of sodium alginate (SA) was used to prepare the film by the casting method in the presence of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and 3-oxo-3-(piperidin-1-yl)propanenitrile (PPN). The prepared films were characterized physiochemically via FTIR, XRD, and TGA. The film morphology was studied using SEM. The antimicrobial potency of the prepared films was assessed against various species of microorganisms. The physicochemical analysis indicated that the films were bound by chemical and physical bond formation between the cyano group of 3-oxo-3-(piperidin-1-yl)propanenitrile, methylene group of PVA, and the hydroxyl group of SA. The films showed smooth, homogenous surfaces and good mechanical properties. The results revealed that the films are bioactive, as indicated by promising antimicrobial potency against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, E. coli, B. subtilis, and C. albicans, with high potency as well as moderate activity against A. niger. Polymeric films have promising potential to be utilized in drug delivery applications.

Carbon nitride caught in the act of artificial photosynthesis

AbstractCovalent semiconductors of the carbon nitride family are among the most promising systems to realize “artificial photosynthesis”, that is exploiting synthetic materials which use sunlight as an energy source to split water into its elements or converting CO2 into added value chemicals. However, the role of surface interactions and electronic properties on the reaction mechanism remain still elusive. Here, we use in-situ spectroscopic techniques that enable monitoring surface interactions in carbon nitride under artificial photosynthetic conditions. We show that the water adsorption and light illumination cause changes of the surface electron density, which activate the photocatalyst and enable the water splitting process. Our results reveal critical details on the photocatalytic mechanism, which proceeds through proton-coupled electron transfer, and provide key information to design more efficient photocatalyst for artificial photosynthesis.

Characteristics of split-step skills of the world’s top athletes in badminton

Objective The purpose of this study was to quantitatively measure the split-step skills of the world’s top badminton players to clarify the characteristics underlying these skills when moving into the forehand position in the rear court. Methods We analyzed the four best ranking players (1st to 4th) in the men’s singles competition at the World Badminton Federation (BWF) World Championships 2023, a world tournament whose match videos are available online. Analysis 1 was conducted to determine the location of the players’ feet on the court when performing a split-step while moving to the forehand rear court, as well as the width of the stance and the reaction time from that stance to taking the first step. To define the characteristics of top athletes, the split-step skill performance of these athletes was evaluated during play. Analysis 2 was used to determine whether the performance of the split-step when moving to the forehand rear court varied depending on the position of the opposing player. Results Analysis 1 showed that the split-step position was gathered close to the base, with an average split-step reaction time of 0.25 s and a split-step stance width comprising 50% of the players’ height. These results were similar among all top players evaluated. Analysis 2 showed that the difference in the number of shuttlecocks that hit the opponent’s backhand rear court (LR) affected their degree of split-step skill. Conclusion In this study, we quantitatively measured the split-step skills of the world’s top badminton athletes and clarified the characteristics of their positioning into the forehand rear court during active play. Herein, movement and performance analysis using match videos available online was used to gain novel insights into the performance of these athletes.

Gender differences in sexual satisfaction through network analysis in young cisgender peruvians

Sulfur chains glass formed by fast compression

De novo transcriptome assembly and discovery of drought-responsive genes in white spruce (Picea glauca)

Forests face an escalating threat from the increasing frequency of extreme drought events driven by climate change. To address this challenge, it is crucial to understand how widely distributed species of economic or ecological importance may respond to drought stress. In this study, we examined the transcriptome of white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) to identify key genes and metabolic pathways involved in the species’ response to water stress. We assembled a de novo transcriptome, performed differential gene expression analyses at four time points over 22 days during a controlled drought stress experiment involving 2-year-old plants and three genetically distinct clones, and conducted gene enrichment analyses. The transcriptome assembly and gene expression analysis identified a total of 33,287 transcripts corresponding to 18,934 annotated unique genes, including 4,425 genes that are uniquely responsive to drought. Many transcripts that had predicted functions associated with photosynthesis, cell wall organization, and water transport were down-regulated under drought conditions, while transcripts linked to abscisic acid response and defense response were up-regulated. Our study highlights a previously uncharacterized effect of drought stress on lipid metabolism genes in conifers and significant changes in the expression of several transcription factors, suggesting a regulatory response potentially linked to drought response or acclimation. Our research represents a fundamental step in unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying short-term drought responses in white spruce seedlings. In addition, it provides a valuable source of new genetic data that could contribute to genetic selection strategies aimed at enhancing the drought resistance and resilience of white spruce to changing climates.

Design, synthesis, in vitro, and in silico studies of 4-fluorocinnamaldehyde based thiosemicarbazones as urease inhibitors

Triboelectric tactile sensor for pressure and temperature sensing in high-temperature applications

Ratio of remnant cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in relation to gestational diabetes mellitus risk in early pregnancy among Korean women

Objective There is no evidence to suggest that an association exists between the remnant cholesterol (RC) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In this study, the RC/HDL-C ratio during the first trimester was examined as a potential indicator of the onset of GDM during the second trimester. Methods This was a secondary analysis of data from a Korea-based prospective cohort study. The study involved 582 women within 14 weeks of pregnancy who were examined between November 2014 and July 2016 at two Korean hospitals. RC was calculated as total cholesterol (TC) minus the sum of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and HDL-C. The RC/HDL-C ratio was determined by dividing the RC content by the HDL-C content. The RC/HDL-C ratio and GDM occurrence were investigated utilizing a binary logistic regression model, various sensitivity analyses, and subgroup analyses. Additionally, the RC/HDL-C ratio was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results The average age of the pregnant women was 32.07 ± 3.78 years, and the RC/HDL-C ratio had a median value of 0.39. The prevalence of GDM was 6.01%. There was a positive association between the RC/HDL-C ratio and the incidence of GDM after adjusting for potential confounding variables (odds ratio: 21.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.55–133.73, P < 0.001). Furthermore, this association was validated by subgroup and sensitivity analyses. The results indicated that the RC/HDL-C ratio was a robust predictor of GDM, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.795 (95% CI: 0.723–0.868). The optimal threshold value was 0.45, with a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 75.3%. Compared with traditional lipid markers, including LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides, TC, and the emerging marker RC, the RC/HDL-C exhibited higher diagnostic efficacy. Conclusion There is an increased risk of GDM associated with higher levels of the RC/HDL-C ratio between 12 and 14 weeks of gestation, independent of traditional risk factors. The RC/HDL-C ratio is more effective in diagnosing GDM than traditional lipid markers.

Motor synergy and energy efficiency emerge in whole-body locomotion learning

Nucleosome wrapping states encode principles of 3D genome organization

AbstractNucleosome is the basic structural unit of the genome. During processes like DNA replication and gene transcription, the conformation of nucleosomes undergoes dynamic changes, including DNA unwrapping and rewrapping, as well as histone disassembly and assembly. However, the wrapping characteristics of nucleosomes across the entire genome, including region-specificity and their correlation with higher-order chromatin organization, remains to be studied. In this study, we investigate the wrapping length of DNA on nucleosomes across the whole genome using wrapping-seq. We discover that the chromatin of mouse ES cells forms Nucleosome Wrapping Domains (NRDs), which can also be observed in yeast and fly genomes. We find that the degree of nucleosome wrapping decreases after DNA replication and is promoted by transcription. Furthermore, we observe that nucleosome wrapping domains delineate Hi-C compartments and replication timing domains. In conclusion, we have unveiled a previously unrecognized domainization principle of the chromatin, encoded by nucleosome wrapping states.

Optimization of carbon footprint management model of electric power enterprises based on artificial intelligence

This study intends to optimize the carbon footprint management model of power enterprises through artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help the scientific formulation of carbon emission reduction strategies. Firstly, a carbon footprint calculation model based on big data and AI is established, and then machine learning algorithm is used to deeply mine the carbon emission data of power enterprises to identify the main influencing factors and emission reduction opportunities. Finally, the driver-state-response (DSR) model is used to evaluate the carbon audit of the power industry and comprehensively analyze the effect of carbon emission reduction. Taking China Electric Power Resources and Datang International Electric Power Company as examples, this study uses the comprehensive evaluation method of entropy weight- technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). China Electric Power Resources Company has outstanding performance in promoting renewable energy, with its comprehensive evaluation index rising from 0.5458 in 2020 to 0.627 in 2022, while the evaluation index of Datang International Electric Power Company fluctuated and dropped to 0.421 in 2021. The research conclusion reveals the actual achievements and existing problems of power enterprises in energy saving and emission reduction, and provides reliable carbon information for the government, enterprises, and the public. The main innovation of this study lies in: using artificial intelligence technology to build a carbon footprint calculation model, combining with the data of International Energy Agency Carbon Dioxide (IEA CO2) emission database, and using machine learning algorithm to deeply mine the important factors in carbon emission data, thus putting forward a carbon audit evaluation system of power enterprises based on DSR model. This study not only fills the blank of carbon emission management methods in the power industry, but also provides a new perspective and basis for the government and enterprises to formulate carbon emission reduction strategies.

Synchronization of brain activity associated with eye contact: comparison of face-to-face and online communication

Tracking the structural change of the predissociating molecule near the transition state

Properties characterization and microstructural analysis of alkali-activated solid waste-based materials with sawdust and wastewater integration

Construction materials are significantly exposed to ecological hazards due to the presence of hazardous chemical constituents found in industrial and agricultural solid wastes. This study aims to investigate the use of sawdust particles (SDPs) and sawdust wastewater (SDW) in alkali-activated composites (AACs) made from a mixture of different silicon-aluminum-based solid wastes (slag powder-SP, red mud-RM, fly ash-FA, and carbide slag-CS). The study examines the impact of SDP content, treated duration of SDPs, and SDW content on both fresh and hardened properties of the AACs, including electrical conductivity, fluidity, density, flexural and compressive strengths, and drying shrinkage. The study also analyzes the microstructures and product compositions of the AACs influenced by SDW through a comprehensive analysis of microstructures and product compositions by using XRD, SEM-EDS, and FTIR. The results show that treating SDPs with a 2.5 mol/L NaOH solution for 12 hours decreases the fluidity and electrical conductivity of the AACs but improves their flexural and compressive strengths. Additionally, in the synthesis of a composite material incorporating binder materials SP, RM, and FA in a mass ratio of 10:3:18, a 2.0 mol/L NaOH solution is employed. The liquid-to-solid ratio is maintained at 20:31, and the sand-to-binder ratio is set at 3:1. The substitution of 12.28% SDW to NaOH solution improves the resistance to drying shrinkage and long-term mechanical strength development of the AACs. Interestingly, the addition of SDW does not affect the product compositions due to the generation and decomposition of organic acid salts from organic impurities in the acidic SDW during long-term curing at room temperature. These findings provide valuable insights for the sustainable recycling of bioresources and solid wastes containing silicon-aluminum in construction materials.