Source-to-sink (S2S) systems exert a fundamental control on sediment dispersal and reservoir development in multiphase rift basins; however, their coupling mechanisms and spatiotemporal evolution remain poorly constrained. The Lishu Fault Depression, located in the southeastern Songliao Basin of Northeast Asia, represents a typical example of a multiphase rift lacustrine basin. Nevertheless, incomplete understanding of its S2S dynamics has hindered effective hydrocarbon exploration and development. In this study, sequence stratigraphy, sedimentology, and S2S system theory are integrated with seismic, drilling, and well-log data to construct a high-resolution sequence stratigraphic framework and to quantitatively characterize sediment provenance, transport pathways, and depositional systems. On this basis, paleo- S2S systems are reconstructed and systematically classified. The results indicate that seven sequence boundaries can be identified within the Jurassic-Cretaceous succession of the Lishu Fault Depression, delineating six third-order sequence stratigraphic units (SQ1-SQ6). Analysis of boundary fault activity reveals that the Sangshutai Fault exhibits higher displacement rates in its central segment and progressively weaker activity toward both ends, with peak fault activity occurring during the late stage of intense rifting. During this rifting phase, sediment supply was dominated by multiple provenance systems, while sediment-routing pathways primarily developed as fault-controlled valleys, structural transfer zones, and parallel fault-step zones. These pathways exerted a strong control on the spatial distribution of nearshore subaqueous fans, fan deltas, braided river deltas, and lacustrine deposits. From the early rifting stage through the rift atrophy stage, the basin evolved from a tectonic framework characterized by alternating uplifts and depressions into a unified lacustrine basin, and subsequently into a shallow, laterally extensive lake system. During the initial rifting stage, steep-slope nearshore subaqueous fans and slope-fan delta systems developed. In the early phase of intense rifting, dominant patterns included steep slope-transfer zone-fan delta, axial slope-fan delta, and eastern gentle slope parallel fault-step zone systems. In the late phase, axial drainage systems prevailed, forming axial slope-braided river delta patterns. During the late rifting stage, gentle slope-braided river delta source-to-sink systems became dominant. Quantitative analyses further demonstrate that, during the intense rifting stage, the scale of gravity-flow-dominated nearshore subaqueous fans and traction-current-dominated deltaic deposits is positively correlated with the width, depth, and cross-sectional area of sediment-routing valleys. These results elucidate the dynamic coupling between tectonic processes and S2S system evolution in multiphase rift basins, and provide a robust geological basis for predicting sand body distribution and guiding deep hydrocarbon exploration in the Lishu Fault Depression and analogous rift basin settings.
Rapid Invisible Frequency Tagging (RIFT) is a recent advance in frequency tagging that exploits novel, high-frequency displays to modulate luminance at imperceptibly high frequencies. RIFT goes beyond low-frequency tagging by allowing researchers to track neural responses to rhythmic stimulation while avoiding perceptual confounds. RIFT is thus a promising method to address central questions in rhythmic cognition, including attention, multimodal integration, and the neural mechanisms underlying oscillatory coordination in perception. However, setting up a RIFT study involves several technical and conceptual considerations. In an effort to make RIFT more accessible, we provide a comprehensive guide for implementing RIFT in cognitive neuroscience. On the basis of the joint experiences and data-driven insights of multiple laboratories, we provide practical recommendations derived from empirical datasets to improve reproducibility, covering hardware requirements, stimulus design, analysis approaches, and interpretation of results. We hope that this guide helps readers to both identify the conceptual areas where RIFT offers promising insights and navigate the technical caveats that come with the approach.
This study investigates a rift-related lacustrine slope system characterized by authigenic high-magnesium phyllosilicates (e.g., kerolite-stevensite) and carbonates associated with volcaniclastic deposits. By integrating high-resolution 3D seismic data in the depth domain with multi-attribute blending (Dip, Azimuth, and Maximum Curvature), we reconstructed the structural framework, stratigraphic geometries, and 3D morphology of depositional elements. Lithological calibration was achieved through thin sections and cores, supporting the geomorphological characterization. Results reveal a complex slope system controlled by NE-SW normal faults, dipping ~ 30° SE over a 40 km strike, with maximum accumulated vertical throw of 2000 m. This system is segmented by NW-SE and W-E faults to the north and south, respectively. Stratigraphic analysis identifies proximal onlap and distal downlap along early syn-rift fault scarps (Piçarras Formation), followed by the onlap of the late syn-rift (Itapema Formation) and early post-rift (Barra Velha Formation), characterizing a bypass margin. In contrast, the late post-rift Barra Velha Formation marks the development of a platform basin on the hanging wall, featuring linearly aligned mounds transitioning downdip into a flat-topped platform. Its margin is defined by arcuate mounds and a slope characterized by gullies, slumps, fans, and aprons, signaling an evolution toward an accretionary margin. Despite the alkaline lacustrine setting, the post-rift slope system exhibits striking similarities to marine analogues, suggesting shared depositional processes and responses.
Continental rifting in marginal seas remains debated, particularly regarding the role of mantle dynamics in lithospheric extension. The South China Sea, the largest marginal sea in the western Pacific, provides a well-constrained case for exploring this issue. Seismic observations reveal a major transition from early Paleogene distributed extension to late Paleogene hyper-extension along its northern margin, with systematic westward rift propagation. Numerical mantle flow models predict upper-mantle flows beneath Southeast Asia, comprising southwestward Pacific flow in the east and converging Pacific and Tethyan/Eurasian flows in the west, which are dynamically consistent with the westward migration of rifting. Subduction of the fossil Wharton Ridge to the southwest may have enhanced mantle-pressure gradients and influenced the transition from distributed extension to hyper-extension. Here, we show that mantle flow, together with plate kinematics, contributes to the regional stress framework of rifting, helping to explain the spatiotemporal organization of extension in marginal sea systems.
In utero transmission and spontaneous fetal death are hallmarks of Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) infection in pregnant animals. Compounding evidence indicates pregnant individuals are particularly vulnerable to RVFV, as in utero transmission and increased rates of miscarriage have been reported in people infected during pregnancy. Further, human placenta explants are permissive to RVFV infection. Viable vaccine candidates intended for veterinary or human use must protect vulnerable populations, including pregnant individuals and fetuses. Using a pregnant rat model, we show that maternal vaccination with a live-attenuated RVFV lacking the non-structural proteins NSs and NSm (RVFV-delNSs/NSm) is immunogenic, safe, and protective. Dams vaccinated either prior to or during pregnancy were protected from virulent challenge during pregnancy, and we found no evidence of infectious virus in the placentas and fetuses of challenged animals. These studies offer important pre-clinical data in a tractable pregnancy model and serve as a blueprint for evaluating future vaccine approaches designed to protect pregnant individuals and their fetuses. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) poses a formidable threat to pregnant animals and potentially to pregnant individuals and their developing fetuses. Despite this risk, pregnant individuals are rarely included in vaccine trials, leaving this potentially vulnerable population unprotected. Using a live-attenuated RVFV vaccine, we demonstrate that maternal vaccination is safe and protects both pregnant rats and their fetuses from congenital Rift Valley fever. Because live-attenuated vaccines are often contraindicated during pregnancy due to theoretical safety concerns, we further show that vaccination prior to pregnancy provides equivalent protection throughout future pregnancy. Taken together, these findings provide a blueprint for the preclinical evaluation of RVFV vaccines during pregnancy.
Rift Valley fever (RVF) poses a recurring public health and economic challenge in Uganda's cattle corridor. It is a mosquito-borne zoonotic disease caused by the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), with high livestock density, favorable rainfall patterns, and close human-animal interaction facilitating viral transmission and disease outbreaks. Although RVF outbreaks have occurred, data on human exposure in south-central Uganda remain limited. This cross-sectional study assessed the seroprevalence and associated factors of RVFV exposure among selected communities in the greater Masaka-Rakai region of south-central Uganda. Archived human sera (n = 1,199) retrospectively collected between June 2018 and October 2020 from the population-based Rakai Community Cohort Study were analyzed using both indirect in-house and commercial ID Screen® RVF competition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) to detect RVFV IgG antibodies. Household census and socio-demographic data were linked to serological results, and logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with seropositivity. RVFV IgG antibodies were detected in 86 of 1,199 (7.8%) individuals. In multivariable analysis, RVFV seropositivity was significantly associated with residence in agrarian communities and older age groups (25-34 and ≥ 35 years), while pig ownership was associated with lower risks of exposure. These findings suggest RVFV human exposure in south-central Uganda and emphasize the need for strengthened surveillance, targeted prevention, and One Health interventions to protect high-risk groups.
East African freshwater are renowned biodiversity hotspots, particularly within the Rift Valley lakes, which exhibit exceptional species richness and endemism. However, research in this region has predominantly focused on large Rift lakes, with smaller volcanic barrier lakes remaining underexplored. This study integrated morphological, DNA barcoding, and ecological analyses to assess mollusc diversity, biogeographical affinities, environmental correlates of distribution, and community differences in lakes Bunyonyi, Mutanda, and Mulehe in Uganda, and Lakes Ruhondo and Burera in Rwanda. Results revealed a relatively high malacofaunal diversity in these lakes compared to some Great Lakes in the region, although these comparisons should be interpreted cautiously because sampling scope differs among studies. Assemblages largely exhibited Nilotic affinities and were dominated by widespread mollusc species. Our findings suggest ongoing homogenisation of mollusc communities, as indicated by reduced dispersion among invaded lakes. While this pattern is consistent with potential influences of anthropogenic activities and invasive species such as the North American crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), Physella acuta, and the Asian lineage of Melanoides tuberculata, our analyses do not allow us to disentangle invasion effects from other confounding factors, including lake-specific characteristics and environmental gradients. Therefore, invasion-driven homogenisation should be interpreted with caution. Nevertheless, this trend, coupled with habitat degradation from agriculture, pollution, and infrastructure development, may pose significant threats to the mollusc diversity in these lakes. This research underscores the importance of prioritising these overlooked, fragile ecosystems in the regional biodiversity conservation strategies to safeguard habitats for molluscs and other faunal elements. A comprehensive regional freshwater survey, including metabarcoding, is needed to document molluscan diversity patterns under ongoing environmental change and increasing anthropogenic pressure.
Landscape features such as the Rift Valley (RV) can restrict gene flow in malaria vectors and influence resistance patterns. Here, we assessed Plasmodium infection rates, resistance alleles and profiles in Anopheles funestus s.s. populations across Kenyan malaria-endemic regions separated by the RV. Anopheles funestus s.s. populations in western, coastal and Kerio Valley (KV, within the RV) were genotyped for key resistance markers using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). TaqMan assay combined with nested PCR were used to screen the samples for Plasmodium sporozoite infection and association with resistance alleles and genotype frequencies assessed using Fisher's exact test or Pearson's chi-square test. Following established WHO guidelines, phenotypic resistance using F1 progeny was also assessed using diagnostic, intensity and piperonyl butoxide (PBO)-synergistic assays. The 4.3kb-SV (n = 336) and G454A-Cyp9k1 (n = 445) alleles were nearly fixed in western Kenya but declined towards the RV and coast, whereas L119F-GSTe2 (n = 392) increased across a west-KV-coast gradient with a novel haplotype distinct from known African variants detected at the coast. There were lower odds of Plasmodium infection in mosquitoes with L119F-GSTe2-RR than RS genotype (OR 0.2, P = 0.046). Likewise, mosquitoes harboring the R allele of the 4.3 kb marker had higher Plasmodium infection rates than the S allele (OR 5.7, P = 0.049). An. funestus populations exhibited a high degree of pyrethroid resistance with intensity higher in KV compared to western Kenya, a traditional malaria hotspot. Pre-exposure to PBO increased mortality for type II (deltamethrin, alpha-cypermethrin), than I (permethrin) pyrethroids, yet mortality remained lower in KV, suggesting non-P450-mediated resistance. An. funestus mosquitoes from the coast showed extreme permethrin resistance (< 10% mortality at 10 × dose). Resistance to dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane was widespread, while all populations remained fully susceptible to bendiocarb, pirimiphos-methyl, clothianidin, and chlorfenapyr. Region-specific selection may drive varying resistance profiles in An. funestus across Kenyan malaria-endemic regions separated by the Rift Valley, with implications for malaria transmission and insecticide resistance management.
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a zoonotic arbovirus endemic to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula that can cause disease in humans and livestock. There are currently no licensed vaccines for human use, but several candidates are at the clinical trial stage including DDVaxTM, a preparation of live-attenuated RVFV lacking the nonstructural proteins NSs and NSm (ΔNSsΔNSm). Multiple pre-clinical studies have shown that ΔNSsΔNSm is safe and immunogenic. The longitudinal study described in this manuscript examined the additional features of duration, sex and dose in immunogenicity and protection provided by ΔNSsΔNSm. Female and male 8-week-old C57BL/6 mice were vaccinated with either a low- or high-dose of ΔNSsΔNSm and humoral (via neutralization assay and ELISA) and cellular immunity (ELISPOT and flow cytometry) were assessed over a period of 6 months. A subset of animals were challenged with a lethal dose of wild type (WT) RVFV 6 months post-vaccination. All vaccinated animals were protected against lethal Rift Valley fever (RVF) disease 6 months post-vaccination independent of dose or sex. Humoral immunity in the form of RVFV-specific neutralizing and binding antibodies decreased over time but remained detectable at the end of the study. RVFV-specific CD4+ T cells also decreased by 6 months post-vaccination. In contrast, virus-specific polyfunctional CD8+ T cells persisted at comparable levels throughout the study. This work demonstrates that a single low-dose of ΔNSsΔNSm vaccine elicits a durable humoral and cellular immune response that persists over months and protects C57BL/6 mice against lethal RVF disease.
Numerical modeling has been widely used to assess the feasibility of geothermal energy development at sites across the world, but modeling applications simulating the potential impacts on shallow hydrothermal resources and surface water are relatively scarce. In this study, we apply the MODFLOW 6 groundwater energy (GWE) code to simulate fully coupled groundwater flow and heat transport in a Rocky Mountain rift valley. The site features a moderate temperature hydrothermal system with steeply dipping normal faults, fractures, and shear zones that convey upwelling geothermal water to the shallow subsurface and facilitate interaction between deep geothermal pumping and the shallow subsurface. Following calibration against a set of publicly available well water levels, streamflow observations, well and spring water temperatures, and thermal gradients, the model is used to simulate the impacts of deep geothermal development on surface water supplies and shallow hydrothermal resources, including a hot spring system. The model simulates significant hydrologic and thermal impacts of deep geothermal pumping on the shallow hydrothermal system, including large changes in groundwater levels (-1.2 to +3.1 m), temperatures (-5.6°C to +8.7°C), and groundwater flow to springs (-10.7% to +15.4%). Depletion of tributary groundwater is simulated in three scenarios (0.8-10.7% of the geothermal extraction rate), demonstrating that deep geothermal pumping can infringe upon surface water rights. Results broadly demonstrate that in rift valley systems, geologic structures conveying upwelling geothermal water can lead to surficial thermal and hydrologic impacts in response to deep geothermal pumping, highlighting the need for regulatory frameworks that integrate geothermal energy and water resources.
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging zoonotic virus of major public health and veterinary concern across Africa. Although past genomic studies have focused on outbreak response and lineage classification, the molecular mechanisms driving viral persistence and adaptation remain poorly understood. This study aimed to identify RVFV protein-coding mutations and adaptive signatures across multiple epidemics and epizootics in Africa. This retrospective genomic analysis examined 596 RVFV segment sequences retrieved from the NCBI Virus database, including L (n = 173), M (n = 196) and S (n = 227) sequences from 13 African countries across human and non-human hosts between 1944 and 2022. Following the identification of protein-coding mutations via Genome Detective and custom scripts, we performed phylogenetic reconstruction using IQ-TREE and host-state reconstruction to map cross-species transmission patterns and selection pressure analyses were conducted using codon-based models implemented in the Datamonkey platform. All data analyses and visualizations were performed using R software. A total of 7,339 protein-coding mutations were identified, ranging from 2-20 per isolate. RVFV isolates collected in South Africa, Kenya and Madagascar exhibited the highest genomic diversity. Comparative analysis revealed higher mutation burdens in the L and S segments than in the M segment, with broader diversity among non-human hosts. Phylogenetic reconstruction showed that human-derived sequences clustered within livestock and vector lineages, a pattern consistent with significant genetic bottlenecks during spillovers. Notably, host-state reconstruction identified livestock lineages as the primary source of human outbreaks. We identified seven recurrent amino acid mutations across the genome: N277S, N277D and S278N in the polymerase (L); I442S, I442V, V659A in the glycoproteins (M); and N133S in the NSs protein (S). FUBAR-supported signals consistent with diversifying selection were identified at corresponding codon sites, particularly within the polymerase and glycoprotein regions, highlighting candidate residues potentially associated with adaptive processes affecting replication efficiency and immune evasion. Our findings demonstrate that RVFV evolution across Africa is geographically and temporally heterogeneous, with livestock infections identified as the primary driver of human outbreaks. While RVFV evolution is largely shaped by purifying selection, FUBAR analysis revealed a limited number of candidate codon sites under diversifying selection that may facilitate host-specific adaptation. These host-specific pressures likely contribute to adaptive substitutions that fine-tune polymerase function, alter glycoprotein antigenicity and enhance immune escape. Collectively, these results reveal the molecular mechanisms underpinning viral persistence and provide information to support the design of cross-protective vaccines.
In Madagascar, the health burdens caused by West Nile virus (WNV) and Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV) vary across regions, likely resulting from the variations of their vector capacity. This study aimed to assess the degree of vector-hots contact and to develop statistical models to identify factors influencing host preferences. Bimonthly mosquito collections were performed in 25 sites of Madagascar from February to October 2019. Engorged mosquitoes were collected from indoors and outdoors resting locations within each site. Blood meal identification was performed using host-specific PCRs. Generalised linear models were developed to explain host preferences of the two most abundant species. The origin of the blood meal of 1,177 engorged females belonging to ten species was analysed. Human and cattle were the dominant vertebrate hosts identified (respectively 44.86% and 44.52%), and pigs were rarely detected (< 1%). Models were developed for Culex antennatus and Culex quinquefasciatus. For these two species, host preference was driven by climatic and environmental factors, type of habitat, indoor/outdoor location, and number of available vertebrate hosts. This study provides an essential step towards an evidence-based determination of arbovirus transmission risk and suggests to explore the use of other tools to supplement indoor vector control in Madagascar. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-026-46448-3.
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) causes haemorrhagic fever, ophthalmitis, and in severe cases, encephalitis in humans. Despite the well-recognised neurotropism, the mechanisms of central nervous system (CNS) invasion remain poorly understood. We investigated RVFV ingress into the CNS and resulting neuropathogenesis following intranasal inoculation in ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) (n = 15). At 3 DPI, before RVFV dissemination to the CNS, mild multifocal suppurative rhinitis and multifocal interstitial pneumonia were detected in the nasal cavity and lungs respectively, supported by detection of viral antigen and genome. From 6 DPI, infected ferrets exhibited neurological signs; by 6 - 8 DPI, a mild-to-moderate non-suppurative meningoencephalitis and myelitis was observed, progressing rostrally to caudally, with ophthalmitis observed from 7 DPI and 100% mortality by 8 DPI. Mild-to-moderate hyperaemia of the meninges was identified macroscopically in all infected ferrets. An immune response to infection was unable to prevent neuropathogenesis and clinical disease. Although our results suggest that neuroinvasion occurs via the olfactory route through the nasal turbinates to cranial nerves, virus replication in the lungs and presence of viremia implies that haematogenous dissemination into the CNS as a secondary route is possible. This relevant experimental ferret model may further contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of human RVFV infection.
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a viral zoonosis endemic in Madagascar, threatening human and animal health as well as the economy. Trade-related livestock movements are a major factor in the spread of RVF virus. While previous RVF research in Madagascar has focused on farmers or general ecology, this study is the first to specifically target livestock traders, the primary drivers for long-distance viral spread, in the Alaotra Mangoro endemic hotspot. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, prevailing attitudes and current practices regarding RVF among people engaged in livestock trade in the Alaotra Mangoro region, as well as the factors associated with these KAPs. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted among 406 livestock traders in five districts of the Alaotra Mangoro region, using a structured questionnaire. A multi-stage sampling approach was employed, utilising purposive selection of markets followed by snowball sampling to reach informal traders often missed by traditional surveys. Generalised linear mixed models were used to analyse factors associated with KAPs regarding RVF. Awareness of RVF was very low (only 18.5% respondents had heard of it), with significant regional disparities (0% in Anosibe An'Ala versus 51.6% in Moramanga). Veterinarians (15.5%), family (12.8%), radio (9.6%) and neighbours (9.6%) were the main sources of information. Understanding of symptoms and modes of transmission (particularly mosquito bites) was limited. Higher levels of education (OR = 181.6; 95% CI: 29.9-1123.7; p < 0.001) and older age (50-60 years) were associated with better knowledge. Proactive attitudes were scarce (21.4%), although more than half (53.4%) believed that RVF is a real disease. Perception of personal risk and the contribution of livestock trade to the spread of the disease was low. However, confidence in animal vaccination was relatively high (60.3%). Preventive practices were highly inadequate. The majority did not wear protective equipment when handling sick animals (94.6%) and rarely avoided touching aborted foetuses (12.6%). Less than half (48.3%) expressed a willingness to report sick or dead animals, and nearly half admitted to having sold or purchased sick livestock (49.5%). Cooking meat (95.1%) and using mosquito nets (74.1%) were the only well-established practices. More than half of respondents (57.9%) lived more than 5 km from veterinary services, and cost was the most frequently cited barrier to consultation. Participation in awareness campaigns was virtually non-existent (5.4%). Results revealed critical gaps in KAP that may contribute to the persistence of RVF. A "One Health" approach is imperative, integrating human, animal and environmental health.
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic pathogen that has caused repeated epidemics across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, posing a severe and growing threat to public health and livestock. Infection in ruminants causes high neonatal mortality and catastrophic abortion storms; human disease ranges from self-limiting febrile illness to hemorrhagic fever, encephalitis, and permanent blindness. No licensed human vaccines or specific antiviral therapeutics are available, creating an urgent unmet medical need. We systematically reviewed the peer-reviewed literature on RVFV neutralizing antibodies (NAbs), extracting and synthesizing data on antibody sources, epitope specificity, in vitro neutralizing potency, in vivo protective efficacy, and molecular mechanisms of action. A growing body of work has identified potent NAbs from immunized rodents, rabbits, alpacas, non-human primates, and convalescent patients. These NAbs predominantly target the Gn and Gc envelope glycoproteins. Their mechanisms include blocking host receptor (LRP1) binding, preventing the pH-dependent conformational rearrangement of the Gn-Gc complex, and directly inhibiting viral membrane fusion. Lead candidates, such as RVFV-268 and RVFV-140, achieve sub-nanogram neutralization and confer robust protection in rodent models against lethal challenge, aerosol exposure, and vertical transmission. Bispecific antibodies and combination strategies further enhance potency and the genetic barrier to viral escape. Substantial progress has illuminated the epitope landscape and neutralization mechanisms of RVFV, yielding promising clinical candidates. Translational challenges remain, including viral immune escape, antibody thermostability, and the need for rigorous preclinical evaluation. Future efforts should prioritize structure-guided engineering, rational antibody combinations, and testing in clinically predictive animal models.
Deep-derived carbon dioxide (CO2) degassing is a globally important process linking crust-mantle fluid transport with atmospheric carbon budgets. Matched Field Processing-Bartlett Beamformer (MFP-BB) method offers a seismic approach for detecting tremor signals generated by these degassing centers (mofette). Its principle relies on comparing recorded wavefields with modeled replicas to identify the most likely source locations. This study applies the MFP-BB technique to dense-array seismic noise data from three key mofette areas in the Cheb Basin, western Eger Rift-Bublák, Hartoušov, and Soos. We combine field observations with numerical simulations to evaluate the method's performance. Synthetic tests with interfering noise-embedded sources (SNR = 5 dB) demonstrate that accurate localization is achievable with appropriate frequency selection, and that even 20% perturbations in the velocity model introduce only minor degradation. Field data were processed through segmentation, noise filtering, and spectral analysis to determine persistent frequency bands used in the algorithm. Across all sites, MFP-BB energy concentrates near the surface, coinciding with known mofette fields and CO2 discharge zones. These shallow anomalies reflect microtremors generated as ascending CO2 interacts with groundwater and unconsolidated sediments; additional, weaker anomalies at depths < 200 m may also represent active gas migration.
The LDL receptor related protein 1 (LRP1) is a host entry factor for Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), a negative sense RNA virus in the Bunyaviricetes class within the Phenuiviridae family. Previous studies revealed that RVFV glycoproteins (Gn and Gc; GnGc) primarily interact with LRP1 clusters II (CLII) and IV (CLIV) to promote viral entry. However, the mechanism of RVFV GnGc binding to LRP1 is not fully characterized. In this study, we have successfully mapped the roles of individual LRP1 ligand binding regions, known as CR domains, and identified CR25 to be sufficient for high affinity RVFV GnGc binding. Analysis of LRP1 multi-CR binding to RVFV GnGc also revealed redundant modes of binding for LRP1. Mutation of a key aromatic residue within CR25 resulted in near complete loss of binding to RVFV GnGc, suggesting a critical role for CR25 in binding to GnGc in vitro. We further assessed the capacity of these CR domains to inhibit RVFV-MP12GFP infection and determined that more than two contiguous LRP1 CR domains are necessary for in vitro neutralization. Together, these results provide a biochemical basis for LRP1 binding with RVFV GnGc and suggest that a similar mechanism may be at play in LRP1-mediated infection by emerging and re-emerging viruses, including bunyaviruses, alphaviruses, and flaviviruses. These results also highlight that truncated LRP1 ectodomains can be used for immunogen design and therapeutic targeting.
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a clinically zoonotic pathogen associated with severe systemic and neurological complications, for which no approved vaccine is currently available. This study aimed to design a novel chimeric multi-epitope vaccine candidate targeting the RVFV Envelope polyprotein (Gn and Gc) via an integrative immunoinformatic and structural modeling approach, targeting viral envelope glycoproteins which play a crucial role in host cell entry and immune recognition. The epitopes used in the vaccine assembly were selected on the basis of antigenicity, allergenicity, and toxicity, then linked to the RS09 adjuvant and optimized using linkers. The vaccine's 3D model was built using AlphaFold 3, and its potential to bind to the human TLR4 receptor (PDB ID: 4G8A) was investigated using ClusPro 2.0 docking. Population coverage and immune simulation were conducted using IEDB and the C-ImmSim server, respectively. The vaccine is highly antigenic, soluble, stable, and has a global population coverage of more than 90%. In addition, the vaccine was found to be effective as indicated by a high binding energy and good complementarity to the complex formed by the TLR4 receptor. This study demonstrates that a highly effective and safe vaccine candidate for global RVF prevention is feasible and should be considered for development.
The aim of this study was to test whether rapid invisible frequency tagging (RIFT)-a promising tool to directly measure covert attention allocated to parafoveal words-affects lexical processing during natural reading. RIFT involves flickering the background of the target word(s) at an imperceptible frequency (≥60 Hz), but imperceptibility does not necessarily equate to the absence of a cognitive effect. The current study examined the potential impact of the RIFT paradigm on eye movements. Forty-eight participants read 474 high-frequency and low-frequency target words that were embedded in one-line sentences and displayed randomly in three condition blocks: no tagging, invisible tagging at 60 Hz (i.e., the RIFT) and visible tagging at 30 Hz. Linear mixed-effect modelling and divergence point analysis revealed a robust frequency effect, with high-frequency words processed faster than low-frequency words, but, crucially, no significant differences across the three conditions in terms of its magnitude or onset latency, except for a miniscule effect on saccade amplitude (0.06˚). Overall fixation durations (irrespective of lexical frequency) did not differ between the no-tagging and RIFT conditions, but were significantly longer in the visible tagging condition, suggesting that deliberately drawing attention to the tagging area actually slowed down reading. Furthermore, a postexperiment questionnaire indicated relatively low RIFT awareness. Altogether, preserved lexical frequency effects of comparable magnitude, similar divergence points and overall fixation and saccade patterns, suggest that RIFT is a valid tool for measuring attention during reading that is unlikely to interfere with word processing and highlight its potential for application in ecologically valid settings involving eye movements.
This article argues that the question of whether we are alone in the universe is a symptom of Western apparatuses that produce an ontological rift between human beings and other species. This rift comprises instrumental, ruling epistemologies that depersonalize other species, thus legitimating our indifference to their manifold intelligences and communications. The Western apparatuses that produce the rift can be understood in terms of a normative and historical unconscious, as well as the defenses of weak dissociation and projection. These defenses operate to secure a conscious and preconscious sense of existential significance while rendering unconscious the terrifying reality of existential insignificance. This analysis also provides a partial explanation for the sources of the climate polycrisis and the strong resistance to effective climate action. That is, dissonant subjects have an antagonistic relation to "nature," deeming all that falls under this abstraction mute and dumb (unintelligent).