Diverse Functionalities Research Articles

Extreme trophic tales: deciphering bacterial diversity and potential functions in oligotrophic and hypereutrophic lakes

BackgroundOligotrophy and hypereutrophy represent the two extremes of lake trophic states, and understanding the distribution of bacterial communities across these contrasting conditions is crucial for advancing aquatic microbial research. Despite the significance of these extreme trophic states, bacterial community characteristics and co-occurrence patterns in such environments have been scarcely interpreted. To bridge this knowledge gap, we collected 60 water samples from Lake Fuxian (oligotrophic) and Lake Xingyun (hypereutrophic) during different hydrological periods.ResultsEmploying 16S rRNA gene sequencing, our findings revealed distinct community structures and metabolic potentials in bacterial communities of hypereutrophic and oligotrophic lake ecosystems. The hypereutrophic ecosystem exhibited higher bacterial α- and β-diversity compared to the oligotrophic ecosystem. Actinobacteria dominated the oligotrophic Lake Fuxian, while Cyanobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were more prevalent in the hypereutrophic Lake Xingyun. Functions associated with methanol oxidation, methylotrophy, fermentation, aromatic compound degradation, nitrogen/nitrate respiration, and nitrogen/nitrate denitrification were enriched in the oligotrophic lake, underscoring the vital role of bacteria in carbon and nitrogen cycling. In contrast, functions related to ureolysis, human pathogens, animal parasites or symbionts, and phototrophy were enriched in the hypereutrophic lake, highlighting human activity-related disturbances and potential pathogenic risks. Co-occurrence network analysis unveiled a more complex and stable bacterial network in the hypereutrophic lake compared to the oligotrophic lake.ConclusionOur study provides insights into the intricate relationships between trophic states and bacterial community structure, emphasizing significant differences in diversity, community composition, and network characteristics between extreme states of oligotrophy and hypereutrophy. Additionally, it explores the nuanced responses of bacterial communities to environmental conditions in these two contrasting trophic states.

PSVI-6 Genomic determinants of the rumen microbiome and metabolome in Angus steers

Abstract The rumen microbiome provides approximately 70% of energy required for the ruminant host through fermentation byproducts. Due to microbial impacts on host health and productivity, several studies have associated microbiome and metabolome variation with important sustainability phenotypes, such as feed efficiency and methane emissions. Recent studies have indicated the microbial communities present in rumen fluid are under low-to-moderate host genetic control. However, microorganisms present on the rumen wall have been underrepresented in research, negating their unique role in host-microbiome interactions. Current studies investigating heritability of the rumen planktonic microorganisms are plagued by small sample sizes, high management and breed heterogeneity, and low resolution for classifying microbial communities. To determine the heritability of the rumen fluid and epithelium-associated microbiome and metabolome, Angus steers (n = 350) were enrolled in a 70-d feed efficiency trial, where real-time dry matter intake was measured. Body weights were collected throughout the trial to calculate average daily gain and residual feed intake. Mid-trial, a novel surgery method was used to swab the rumen wall to capture epithelium-associated microorganisms. On d 70, 50 mL of rumen fluid was obtained from steers using orogastric tubing for collection of planktonic microbial communities. Metagenomic DNA extracted from both rumen fluid and epimural samples was used for reduced representation sequencing to predict microbial features such as diversity, composition, and putative function. Genomic DNA isolated from whole blood was used to perform low-pass whole genome sequencing for use in downstream heritability estimates and variant association analyses. Many core microbial abundances are under low-to-moderate host genetic control (h2 > 0.15; P < 0.05); however, many microorganisms had low heritability estimates (h2 < 0.10). Preliminary genome-wide associations studies are vastly underpowered to detect host genetic variants associated with microbial features, but data generated using the total number of animals will better refine these polymorphisms. Several key heritable metabolites were identified in amino acid metabolism pathways in rumen fluid (P < 0.05). The rumen microbiome appears to act as a complex polygenic trait and incorporating microbial features into prediction models may improve feed efficiency estimations. Understanding host genetic control of the rumen microbiome and metabolome may empower downstream applications to enhance genomic and phenotypic predictions for feed efficiency and other sustainability traits in beef cattle.

SIRT1 in acute lung injury: unraveling its pleiotropic functions and therapeutic development prospects.

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a continuum of lung changes caused by multiple lung injuries, often associated with severe complications and even death. In ALI, macrophages, alveolar epithelial cells and vascular endothelial cells in the lung are damaged to varying degrees and their function is impaired. Research in recent years has focused on the use of SIRT1 for the treatment of ALI. In this paper, we reviewed the role of SIRT1 in ALI in terms of its cellular and molecular mechanism, targeting of SIRT1 by non-coding RNAs and drug components, as well as pointing out the value of SIRT1 for clinical diagnosis and prognosis. Based on the current literature, SIRT1 exhibits diverse functionalities and possesses significant therapeutic potential. Targeting SIRT1 may provide new therapeutic ideas for the treatment of ALI.

Armed on the back: Hidden biomineralized scales in the ventral girdle of chiton Acanthopleura loochooana

Flexible protective armors are found in large animals such as fish skins, snake skins, and pangolin scales. For small-sized invertebrates, such armors are paid less attention and overlooked. Chitons, a type of marine mollusk, possess mineralized armors covering the whole dorsal body. The dorsal scales in the girdle tissue are well known, in this study, we reported hidden mineralized scales in the ventral side of chiton Acanthopleura loochooana girdles for the first time. The ventral surface is covered with scales with ca. 40 μm in length, forming continuous but overlapped scales. Additionally, scales are formed from aragonitic spicule-like and square-like scales, embedded in the cuticle layer. Nanoindentation testing results showed that the hardness and elastic modulus of ventral scales were ∼20 % higher compared to those in the dorsal scales, exhibiting good hardness and wear resistance. The combination of the ventral scales and cuticle, along with the regular arrangement of ventral scales, may allow chitons to simultaneously address complex and variable attachment interfaces while also providing wear-resistant protection. This study provides insights for designing protective structures that balance flexibility and durability. Statement of significanceBiomineralization is universal in nature and provides protection and support for animals. However, mineralization of dermal skin is not commonly seen. Herein, for the first time, we reported hidden minerals covering the whole ventral side of skin in a small marine animal, chitons. Calcium carbonate minerals are arranged regularly and manifest different morphology in different regions. Additionally, these minerals are embedded in a continuous cuticle layer covering the whole animal. The material also indicates a higher wear-resistant property. This study extends our understanding of the diverse functionality of biominerals and provides a prototype for designing wear-resistant materials.

A Versatile Strategy toward Donor-Acceptor Nanofibers with Tunable Length/Composition and Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity.

Living crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA) has emerged as an efficient strategy to generate nanofibers of π-conjugated polymers (CPNFs) in a controlled fashion. However, reports of donor-acceptor (D-A) heterojunction CPNFs are extremely rare. The preparation of these materials remains a challenge due to the lack of rational design guidelines for the D-A π-conjugated units. Herein, we report a versatile CDSA strategy based upon carefully designed D-A-co-oligomers in which electron-deficient benzothiadiazole (BT) or dibenzo[b,d]thiophene 5,5-dioxide (FSO) units are attached to the two ends of an oligo(p-phenylene ethynylene) heptamer [BT-OPE7-BT, FSO-OPE7-FSO]. This arrangement with the electron-deficient groups at the two ends of the oligomer enhances the stacking interaction of the A-D-A π-conjugated structure. In contrast, D-A-D structures with a single BT in the middle of a string of OPE units disrupt the packing. We employed oligomers with a terminal alkyne to synthesize diblock copolymers BT-OPE7-BT-b-P2VP and BT-OPE7-BT-b-PNIPAM (P2VP = poly(2-vinylpyridine), PNIPAM = poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)) and FSO-OPE7-FSO-b-P2VP and FSO-OPE7-FSO-b-PNIPAM. CDSA experiments with these copolymers in ethanol were able to generate CPNFs of controlled length by both self-seeding and seeded growth as well as block comicelles with precisely tunable length and composition. Furthermore, the D-A CPNFs with a BT-OPE7-BT-based core demonstrate photocatalytic activity for the photooxidation of sulfide to sulfoxide and benzylamine to N-benzylidenebenzylamine. Given the scope of the oligomer compositions examined and the range of structures formed, we believe that the living CDSA strategy with D-A-based co-oligomers opens future opportunities for the creation of D-A CPNFs with programmable architectures as well as diverse functionalities and applications.

From cornfield to catalyst support: Eco-friendly synthesis of Cu/CuO nanoparticles, immobilization on the waste corn husk fibers, photocatalytic exploration and bioactivity evaluation

This study presents an innovative approach to eco-friendly synthesis and utilization of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) for photocatalytic applications, employing waste corn husk fibers as sustainable catalyst support. The synthesis of CuNPs was achieved through a green synthesis method utilizing myrtle extract. Subsequently, the remarkable photocatalytic activity of the CuNPs explored (76% removal efficiency of Crystal Violet), showcased their potential in environmental remediation applications. Furthermore, the immobilization of CuNPs onto waste corn husk fibers was investigated, aiming to develop a novel composite material with enhanced catalytic performance. A distinctive approach was introduced by immobilizing CuNPs onto fibers derived from corn husks, and waste biomass material, leading to a significant enhancement in photocatalytic efficiency, surpassing 95.1%. Furthermore, bioactivity evaluation studies revealed the significant antioxidant, antidiabetic, DNA fragmentation, cell viability, antibiofilm and antimicrobial properties of CuNPs. The antioxidant ability was determined at 100 mg/L as 87.12%. The most powerful antimicrobial activity of CuNP was found as a MIC value of 8 mg/L against E. faecalis. The cell viability inhibition of CuNP was 90.05% at 20 mg/L. CuNP exhibited biofilm inhibition activity at different concentrations. The antibiofilm ability was investigated against Staphylococcus aureus compared to Pseudomonas aureginosa. While the DNA cleavage activity of CuNP observed double-strand breaks at 50 and 100 mg, complete fragmentation occurred at 200 mg concentrations. The bioactivity of the synthesized CuNPs shed light on their potential biomedical applications. The synthesized CuNPs are characterized using various analytical techniques to elucidate their structural and morphological properties. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis provided insights into the chemical composition and surface properties of the synthesized materials. EDS analysis confirmed their successful integration into waste corn husk fibers. Overall, this interdisciplinary study highlights the potential of CuNPs immobilized on waste corn husk fibers for addressing environmental pollution, advancing sustainable technologies and paving the way for the development of efficient catalysts with diverse functionalities.

Heterogeneity in Slow Synaptic Transmission Diversifies Purkinje Cell Timing.

The cerebellum plays an important role in diverse brain functions, ranging from motor learning to cognition. Recent studies have suggested that molecular and cellular heterogeneity within cerebellar lobules contributes to functional differences across the cerebellum. However, the specific relationship between molecular and cellular heterogeneity and diverse functional outputs of different regions of the cerebellum remains unclear. Here, we describe a previously unappreciated form of synaptic heterogeneity at parallel fiber synapses to Purkinje cells in the mouse cerebellum (both sexes). In contrast to uniform fast synaptic transmission, we found that the properties of slow synaptic transmission varied by up to threefold across different lobules of the mouse cerebellum, resulting in surprising heterogeneity. Depending on the location of a Purkinje cell, the time of peak of slow synaptic currents varied by hundreds of milliseconds. The duration and decay time of these currents also spanned hundreds of milliseconds, based on lobule. We found that, as a consequence of the heterogeneous synaptic dynamics, the same brief input stimulus was transformed into prolonged firing patterns over a range of timescales that depended on Purkinje cell location.

MoS2-based earth-like self-rotating and magnetically navigated nanorobots for magnetic resonance imaging, cancer cell imaging, and therapy

Microrobots are poised to revolutionize mass transport systems in emerging biomedical applications, yet their erratic motion poses a significant challenge in controlling their movements, particularly in-vivo. In this study, we introduce highly flexible, self-rotating nanorobots based on MoS2 Nanoflowers (NFs), offering superior control over their movement under magnetic field for cancer cell imaging and therapy. These nanorobots, termed MNBOTs, are constructed by embellishing pre-formed MoS2 NFs with NiFe2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) using polymeric linkers, capitalizing on the abundance of disulfide bonds on the MoS2 surface. In-vitro experiments showcased MNBOT's precise control over velocity, trajectory, and curvature, adapting seamlessly to changes in magnetic flux density under electromagnetic navigation. Moreover, MNBOTs were able to release NiFe2O3 NPs successfully in the tumor environment, facilitated by the collapse of disulfide bonds in the presence of glutathione/dithiothreitol, thus ensuring MNBOT's retrieval post-cancer therapy. Furthermore, we leveraged the photo-heat generation and paramagnetic features of MNBOTs for chemo-photothermal therapy (PTT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in ex vivo clinical settings. The combined effect of chemotherapy-PTT demonstrated remarkable cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 cancer cells, highlighting the synergistic potential of MNBOTs. The integration of diverse functionalities within MNBOTs, including remote magnetic navigation, photothermal therapy, and MRI, presents a versatile platform for addressing pressing healthcare needs, thus holding immense potential for future therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

Guiding near-source elastic waves in a semi-infinite medium.

In this work, we propose elastic metamaterials with phase discontinuities to steer the propagation of near-source bulk waves in a semi-infinite elastic medium. Our design exploits an array of embedded subwavelength resonators with tailored masses to attain a complete phase shift spanning [Formula: see text]. This phase control allows for diverse wave functionalities, such as directional refraction and energy focusing. Through the use of dispersion diagrams and the generalized Snell's law, along with a multiple scattering formulation, we analytically demonstrate the effectiveness of our design in achieving the desired wavefront manipulation. The proposed design has the potential to advance the field of guiding elastic waves using metamaterials and find practical applications in areas such as isolating ground-borne vibrations in densely urbanized regions and energy harvesting. This article is part of the theme issue 'Current developments in elastic and acoustic metamaterials science (Part 1)'.

Functional Connectivity Profiles of Ten Sub-Regions within the Premotor and Supplementary Motor Areas: Insights into Neurophysiological Integration.

Objectives: This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the functional connectivity of ten sub-regions within the premotor and supplementary motor areas (Right and Left Premotor 6d1, 6d2, 6d3, and Right and Left pre-Supplementary Motor (presma) and SMA). Using advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the objective was to understand the neurophysiological integrative characteristics of these regions by examining their connectivity with eight distinct functional brain networks. While previous studies have largely treated these areas as homogeneous entities, there is a significant gap in our understanding of the specific roles and connectivity profiles of their distinct sub-regions. The goal was to uncover the roles of these regions beyond conventional motor functions, contributing to a more holistic understanding of brain functioning. Methods: The study involved 198 healthy volunteers, with the primary methodology being functional connectivity analysis using advanced MRI techniques. Ten sub-regions within the premotor and supplementary motor areas served as seed regions, and their connectivity with eight distinct brain regional functional networks, including the Sensorimotor, Dorsal Attention, Language, Frontoparietal, Default Mode, Cerebellar, Visual, and Salience networks, was investigated. This approach allowed for the exploration of synchronized activity between these critical brain areas, shedding light on their integrated functioning and relationships with other brain networks. Results: The study revealed a nuanced landscape of functional connectivity for the premotor and supplementary motor areas with the main functional brain networks. Despite their high functional connectedness within the motor network, these regions displayed diverse functional integrations with other networks. There was moderate connectivity with the Sensorimotor and Dorsal Attention networks, highlighting their roles in motor execution and attentional processes. However, connectivity with the Language, Frontoparietal, Default Mode, Cerebellar, Visual, and Salience networks was generally low, indicating a primary focus on motor-related tasks. Conclusions: This study emphasized the multifaceted roles of the sub-regions of the premotor and supplementary motor areas. Beyond their crucial involvement in motor functions, these regions exhibited varied functional integrations with different brain networks. The observed disparities, especially in the Sensorimotor and Dorsal Attention networks, indicated a nuanced and specialized involvement of these regions in diverse cognitive functions. By delineating the specific connectivity profiles of these sub-regions, this study addresses the existing knowledge gap and suggests unique and distinct roles for each brain area in sophisticated cognitive tasks beyond their conventional motor functions. The results suggested unique and distinct roles for each brain area in sophisticated cognitive tasks beyond their conventional motor functions. This study underscores the importance of considering the broader neurophysiological landscape to comprehend the intricate roles of these brain areas, contributing to ongoing efforts in unravelling the complexities of brain function.

Phase and amplitude simultaneously coding metasurface with multi-frequency and multifunctional electromagnetic modulations

The integration of multiple functionalities into a single, planar, ultra-compact metasurface has presented significant opportunities for enhancing capacity and performance within compact 5G/6G communication systems. Recent advances in multifunctional metasurfaces have unveiled comprehensive wavefront manipulations utilizing phase, polarization transmission/reflection, and coding apertures. Despite these developments, there remains a critical need for multifunctional metasurfaces with expanded channel capabilities, including multiple operational frequencies, minimal crosstalk, and high-efficiency computable array factors. This study introduces a multifunctional metasurface that integrates phase- and amplitude simultaneous coding meta-atoms at dual frequencies. By altering the polarization of electromagnetic (EM) waves, it is possible to reshape the wave-fronts of reflected waves at these frequencies. The coding metasurface proficiently manipulates both x and y linearly polarized waves through phase and amplitude coding at dual frequencies, thereby enabling distinct functionalities such as anomalous reflection, reflection imaging, and vortex wave beam generation. Both theoretical analysis and full-wave simulation confirm the anticipated functionalities of the designed devices, paving the way for advancements in integrated communication systems with diverse functionalities.

Carbodicarbene-Stibenium Ion-Mediated Functionalization of C(sp3)-H and C(sp)-H Bonds.

Main-group element-mediated C-H activation remains experimentally challenging, and the development of clear concepts and design principles have been limited by the increased reactivity of relevant complexes, especially for the heavier elements. Herein, we report that the stibenium ion [(pyCDC)Sb][NTf2]3(1) (pyCDC = bis-pyridyl carbodicarbene; NTf2= bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide) reacts with acetonitrile in the presence of the base 2,6-di-tert--butylpyridine to enable C(sp3)-H bond breaking to generate the stiba-methylene nitrile complex [(pyCDC)Sb(CH2CN)][NTf2]2(2). Kinetic analyses were performed to elucidate the rate dependence for all the substrates involved in the reaction. Computational studies suggest that C-H activation proceeds via a mechanism in which acetonitrile first coordinates to the Sb center through the nitrogen atom in aκ1fashion, thereby weakening the C-H bond which can then be deprotonated by base in solution. Further, we show that1reacts with terminal alkynes in the presence of 2,6-di-tert--butylpyridine to enable C(sp)-H bond breaking to form stiba-alkynyl adducts of the type [(pyCDC)Sb(CCR)][NTf2]2(3a-f). Compound1shows excellent specificity for the activation of the terminal C(sp)-H bond even across alkynes with diverse functionality. The resulting stiba-methylene nitrile and stiba-alkynyl adducts react with elemental iodine (I2) to produce iodoacetonitrile and iodoalkynes, while regenerating an Sb trication.

Unleashing supply chain agility: Leveraging data network effects for digital transformation

The global manufacturing supply chain is undergoing a digital transformation (DT) powered by various digital technologies. In both stable and turbulent environments, DT helps safeguard supply chain performance by enhancing supply chain agility. While research on the use of digital technologies and their impacts on supply chains is growing, there is a lack of an overarching theoretical lens to synthesize their diverse functionalities, effects, and benefits. To address this gap, we adapt the concept of the data network effect to the supply chain context and propose that DT improves supply chain performance by enhancing supply chain resilience (SCRes) and robustness (SCRob) capabilities. To validate our hypotheses, we conducted a large-scale survey for data collection and performed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) for data analysis. The results confirm the positive effect of DT on supply chain performance and the mediating roles of SCRob and SCRes. Our study contributes to the ongoing discussion on DT in the context of supply chains by introducing a novel theoretical perspective on the supply chain data network effect.

Oxidative Synthesis of 1,3‐Diarylphenanthro[9,10‐c]thiophenes and their Aerobic Photoconversion to 9,10‐Diaroylphenanthrenes

AbstractOur study introduces a streamlined oxidative method for synthesizing 1,3‐diarylphenanthro[9,10‐c]thiophenes, and their subsequent oxidative cleavage to yield 9,10‐diaroylphenanthrenes. Harnessing an optimized aerobic photochemical transformation, we showcase broad substrate scope and tolerance to various photosensitive functional groups. Our mechanistic investigations unveil the pivotal role of singlet oxygen, providing intriguing insights into the reaction pathway. The synthesized 9,10‐diaroylphenanthrenes serve as versatile building blocks for nitrogen‐containing heterocycles, dibenzoannulated phthalazines, that are promising compounds with diverse functionalities. Offering mild conditions, and broad applicability, our synthetic strategy is useful for organic synthesis and chemical biology exploration.

Advances in Functionalized Hydrogels in the Treatment of Myocardial Infarction and Drug-Delivery Strategies.

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a serious cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality rates, posing a significant threat to patient's health and quality of life. Following a MI, the damaged myocardial tissue is typically not fully repaired, leading to permanent impairment of myocardial function. While traditional treatments can alleviate symptoms and reduce pain, their ability to repair damaged heart muscle tissue is limited. Functionalized hydrogels, a broad category of materials with diverse functionalities, can enhance the properties of hydrogels to cater to the needs of tissue engineering, drug delivery, medical dressings, and other applications. Recently, functionalized hydrogels have emerged as a promising new therapeutic approach for the treatment of MI. Functionalized hydrogels possess outstanding biocompatibility, customizable mechanical properties, and drug-release capabilities. These properties enable them to offer scaffold support, drug release, and tissue regeneration promotion, making them a promising approach for treating MI. This paper aims to evaluate the advancements and delivery methods of functionalized hydrogels for treating MI, while also discussing their potential and the challenges they may pose for future clinical use.

Insights into molecular interactions at organic-MBene heterointerfaces for efficient Zn-ion storage

The intercalation of organic molecules is a promising approach to modulate the structure of 2D transition metal borides (MBenes), aiming to enhance charge transport and improve electrochemical performance in energy storage applications. However, key questions remain regarding how organic molecules with diverse functionalities penetrate and align between the MBene layer, as well as the mechanism of charge redistribution during intercalation. Addressing these questions is crucial for guiding the design of Organic-MBene heterostructures. To this end, a comprehensive approach combining theoretical calculations and experimental analyses was employed to explore the self-assembly mechanisms of organic molecules featuring N, O, S and tertiary amine end groups on the MoB-MBene surface. Experimental characterizations confirm that the interaction between MoB and organic compounds depends on the end groups. First principles calculations demonstrate that organic molecules tend to adopt a flat configuration on the MoB surface during molecular assembly. Calculations also reveal that the binding and charge transfer processes from organic molecules to MoB are highly dependent on the specific end groups, consistent with experimental observations. Furthermore, the effect of combining organic molecules with MoB on battery performance was further discussed, offering new insights for advancing the research and development of MBenes in aqueous battery systems.

Spreadable thermosensitive nanocomposite hydrogel dressing with ultrasound-responsive bactericidal/repair-promoting regulation and cascade antioxidantion for infected burn wound repair

Treating severe burn wounds poses significant challenges, including considerable cell loss, excessive inflammation, and a high susceptibility to bacterial infections. Ideal burn dressings should exhibit excellent antibacterial properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and promote cell proliferation. Additionally, they need facilitate painless dressing changes and be user-friendly. Herein, we synthesized a thermosensitive hydrogel by crosslinking poly (N-isopropylacrylamide-co-allyloxybenzaldehyde) (PNA) and amino-terminated Pluronic F127 (APF) through a Schiff base reaction. It exhibited reversible gel-sol transition and spreadability. By incorporating piezoelectric gold nanoparticle-modified barium titanate (Au@BaTiO3) and cascade antioxidant MOF-818, a nanocomposite hydrogel dressing with diverse bioactive functionalities was developed. Results demonstrated that the nanocomposite hydrogel possessed gel-sol transition properties, maintained a stable gel state within a broad temperature range, and desirable self-healing property. Au@BaTiO3 exhibited good piezoelectric properties and ROS generation upon ultrasound stimulation, while MOF-818 displayed highly efficient cascade nanozyme activity. The combination of Au@BaTiO3 and MOF-818 promoted fibroblast proliferation and migration, reduced intracellular ROS levels, and induced anti-inflammatory polarization of macrophages under ultrasound stimulation. In vitro and in vivo antibacterial results disclosed that the nanocomposite hydrogel had excellent antibacterial activity under high-intensity ultrasound stimulation. When applied to infected burn wounds, the nanocomposite hydrogel can rapidly sterilize the wound upon initial high-intensity ultrasound, and then reduce inflammation and promote M2 macrophage polarization by the following low-intensity ultrasound stimulation, and thus accelerating the healing by improving granulation tissue formation, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition.

Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis reveals the distinct features of colorectal cancer with or without Fusobacterium nucleatum infection in PD-L1 blockade therapy

MSS/pMMR patients are unresponsive to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade in colorectal cancer (CRC), but the mechanisms are unclear. A better understanding of immunotherapy resistance in CRC may lead to more precise treatment and expand the benefit of immunotherapy to patients. In this study, we constructed mouse model of subcutaneous CRC tumor received anti-PD-L1 treatment with or without fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) infection. Then we used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to explore the comprehensive landscape of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Our data delineated the composition, subclonal diversity and putative function of distinct cells, tracked the developmental trajectory of tumor cells and highlighted cell-cell interactions. We found different compositions and functions of both tumor cells and immune cells. Single anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) treated tumor exhibited two specific clusters which might be resistant to PD-L1 blockade. The accumulation of immune cells, including T cell, NK cell and pro-inflammatory macrophage subset in tumors infected with F. nucleatum may be one of the reasons for the increased sensitivity to PD-L1 blockade. Thus, targeting F. nucleatum to change the composition of tumor cell subclusters and enliven the immune response might help to overcome immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) resistance.

Exploring Indonesian EFL students’ lexical diversity and its correlation with academic vocabulary use in an online academic writing environment

This paper reports on a quasi-experimental study designed to explore the relationship between lexical diversity and academic vocabulary use among Indonesian EFL university students engaging in online academic writing discussions and assignments. The study analysed 11,624 tokens and 5437 types collected from students' contributions in online discussions and academic writing assignments. Findings revealed that the level of lexical diversity among the students was significantly varied depending on the text length and the total amount of data. It was found most students were indicated to possess average ESL level of academic writing with a D value ranging from 50 to 70 while some others indicated a high level of adult ESL with developed academic text in the range between 70 and 80 D level. Moreover, it was also found that the degree of lexical diversity was not affected by the writing topic familiarity or students' academic year. Findings revealed a statistically significant negative correlation between measures of lexical diversity and academic vocabulary use. Contrary to expectations, while a diversified vocabulary generally correlates positively with student writing performance, this relationship reverses in contexts emphasizing the academic quality of writing. These results highlight the complex dynamics of lexical usage in academic writing and suggest that mere lexical diversity does not always equate to higher academic writing quality. This study contributes to a critical understanding of how lexical diversity functions in digital academic environments and offers implications for English language teaching practices in higher education settings.

Comparative genomics of Metarhizium brunneum strains V275 and ARSEF 4556: unraveling intraspecies diversity.

Entomopathogenic fungi belonging to the Order Hypocreales are renowned for their ability to infect and kill insect hosts, while their endophytic mode of life and the beneficial rhizosphere effects on plant hosts have only been recently recognized. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying their different lifestyles could optimize their potential as both biocontrol and biofertilizer agents, as well as the wider appreciation of niche plasticity in fungal ecology. This study describes the comprehensive whole genome sequencing and analysis of one of the most effective entomopathogenic and endophytic EPF strains, Metarhizium brunneum V275 (commercially known as Lalguard Met52), achieved through Nanopore and Illumina reads. Comparative genomics for exploring intraspecies variability and analyses of key gene sets were conducted with a second effective EPF strain, M. brunneum ARSEF 4556. The search for strain- or species-specific genes was extended to M. brunneum strain ARSEF 3297 and other species of genus Metarhizium, to identify molecular mechanisms and putative key genome adaptations associated with mode of life differences. Genome size differed significantly, with M. brunneum V275 having the largest genome amongst M. brunneum strains sequenced to date. Genome analyses revealed an abundance of plant-degrading enzymes, plant colonization-associated genes, and intriguing intraspecies variations regarding their predicted secondary metabolic compounds and the number and localization of Transposable Elements. The potential significance of the differences found between closely related endophytic and entomopathogenic fungi, regarding plant growth-promoting and entomopathogenic abilities, are discussed, enhancing our understanding of their diverse functionalities and putative applications in agriculture and ecology.