Shiv Pabary elected new GDPC Chair
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Incompletely closed HIV-1CH040 envelope glycoproteins resist broadly neutralizing antibodies while mediating efficient HIV-1 entry
HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Envs) mediate viral entry and are sole target of neutralizing antibodies. Thus, HIV-1 Envs must maintain a delicate balance between evading neutralizing antibodies while still preserving viral compatibility to mediate entry into target cells. Here, we studied the viral entry effeciency, fitness, and replication of an incompletely closed, transmitted/founder HIV-1 Envs (CH040), which are highly resistant to most bnAbs. CH040 Envs mediated HIV-1 entry to target cells as efficient as other primary Envs, suggesting that antibody resistance and efficient viral entry can develop independently. Expression of CH040 Envs was comparable to other Envs and most CH040 variants that were rationally engineered to increase bnAb resistance showed no significant decrease in their ability to mediate HIV-1 entry. We detected robust in vitro spread of SHIV CH040 in pig-tailed macaque lymphocytes that was comparable to efficient spread of other SHIVs. Our study provides insights into the relationship between bnAb resistance and efficient HIV-1 entry.
Higher surface temperatures near south polar region of the Moon measured by ChaSTE experiment on-board Chandrayaan-3
Water-ice prospecting is a crucial step in unlocking the Moon’s potential for supporting human habitat and furthering exploration. Lunar Temperatures not only dictate water-ice, but also drive other aspects of science and exploration. Global temperatures were mapped through remote sensing, but in-situ measurements are only from Apollo 15 and 17. Here, we provide the in-situ temperatures of top 10 cm of a high-latitude lunar regolith measured by Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment(ChaSTE), a thermal probe on-board Chandrayaan-3 lander. The surface peak temperature of 355 K from ChaSTE is higher than expected(330 K) owing to its deployment on a sunward illuminated local slope region of 6°. This demonstrates that local topography at metre scales can alter temperature at high latitudes, unlike equatorial regions. Numerical model calculations using ChaSTE measurements, suggest that larger poleward facing slopes(>14°) at high latitudes can harbour water-ice, making them promising and technically less challenging sites for future lunar exploration and habitation.
Reforming the products and processes of the IPCC to enhance its relevance
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assesses the scientific knowledge on climate change at five to seven year intervals. Exponential growth of the scientific literature has increased the workload for participants and the length of assessment reports. This paper proposes changes to the IPCC’s products and processes to enable it to better meet the needs of its audiences while reducing the growing burden imposed on authors and other participants.
Open dataset of kinetics, kinematics, and electromyography of above-knee amputees during stand-up and sit-down
After above-knee amputation, the biological knee and ankle are replaced with prostheses. The mobility level of individuals with amputation is related, in part, to the functionality of their prostheses. To understand healthcare needs of amputees, as well as design new, more helpful prostheses, we need to understand the biomechanical effects of using current prosthetic devices. Here we present a dataset of kinetic, kinematic, electromyographic, and video recordings of nine above-knee amputees during the stand-up and sit-down movements. This dataset represents the first repository of amputee biomechanics during stand-up and sit-down with their passive, microprocessor-controlled prostheses, which are still the standard of care after above-knee amputation. The biomechanics were captured using a 12-camera motion capture system with two force plates and four EMG sensors on the intact lower limb. The dataset can serve as a reference when designing next-generation powered prostheses and controllers, to inform prosthetic prescription, and to improve amputee rehabilitation.
Sustaining the planet by sustaining ourselves
The author transitions his career in oncology to one in planetary health. The career pivot begins after he recognizes similarities between the pandemic and the climate crisis. The author determines that stepping away from his role as chair of radiology for a one-year sabbatical is the most efficient way to learn about sustainability. The author explains the process of his sabbatical and offers guidance for those in oncology who are also considering sabbaticals. He concludes by listing five lessons about sustainability and describing his future plans.
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