bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-sperm precedence and other cryptic female choices in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Peckenpaugh Brooke , Yew Joanne Y , Moyle Leonie C
Published: December 2024

Females that mate multiply make postmating choices about which sperm fertilize their eggs (cryptic female choice); however, the male characteristics they use to make such choices remain unclear. In this study, we sought to understand female sperm use patterns by evaluating whether Drosophila melanogaster females adjust sperm use (second male paternity) in response to 4 main factors: male genotype, male courtship effort, male pheromone alteration, and male postmating reproductive morphology. Our experiment was replicated across 4 different D. melanogaster lines, in a full factorial design, including a pheromone manipulation in which second males were perfumed to resemble heterospecific (Drosophila yakuba) males. We found that females prefer longer sperm—regardless of mating order—in almost all contexts; this observed pattern of “long-sperm precedence” is consistent with female postmating choice of high-fitness male traits. Nonetheless, we also found that this general preference can be plastically altered by females in response to effects including perfuming treatment; this differential female sperm use is between otherwise identical males, and therefore solely female-mediated. Furthermore, our finding that females exercise choice using diverse criteria suggests a possible mechanism for the maintenance of variation in sexually selected male traits.
Large-scale remote sensing reveals that tree mortality in Germany appears to be greater than previously expected
Authors: Schiefer Felix , Schmidtlein Sebastian , Hartmann Henrik , Schnabel Florian , Kattenborn Teja
Published: December 2024

Global warming poses a major threat to forests and events of increased tree mortality are observed globally. Studying tree mortality often relies on local-level observations of dieback while large-scale analyses are lacking. Satellite remote sensing provides the spatial coverage and sufficiently high temporal and spatial resolution needed to investigate tree mortality at landscape-scale. However, adequate reference data for training satellite-based models are scarce. In this study, we employed the first maps of standing deadwood in Germany for the years 2018–2022 with 10 m spatial resolution that were created by using tree mortality observations spotted in hundreds of drone images as the reference. We use these maps to study spatial and temporal patterns of tree mortality in Germany and analyse their biotic and abiotic environmental drivers using random forest regression. In 2019, the second consecutive hotter drought year in a row, standing deadwood increased steeply to 334 ± 189 kilohectar (kha) which corresponds to 2.5 ± 1.4% of the total forested area in Germany. Picea abies, Pinus sylvestris, and Fagus sylvatica showed highest shares of standing deadwood. During 2018–2021 978 ± 529 kha (7.9 ± 4.4%) of standing dead trees accumulated. The higher mortality estimates that we report compared to other surveys (such as the ground-based forest condition survey) can be partially attributed to the fact that remote sensing captures mortality from a bird’s eye perspective and that the high spatial detail (10 m) in this study also captures scattered occurrences of tree mortality. Atmospheric drought (i.e. climatic water balance and vapor pressure deficit) and temperature extremes (i.e. number of hot days and frosts after vegetation onset) were the most important predictors of tree mortality. We found increased tree mortality for smaller and younger stands and on less productive sites. Monospecific stands were generally not more affected by mortality than average, but only when interactions with damaging insects (e.g. bark beetles) occurred. Because excess tree mortality rates threaten many forests across the globe, similar analyses of tree mortality are warranted and technically feasible at the global scale. We encourage the international scientific community to share and compile local data on deadwood occurrences (see example: www.deadtrees.earth) as such a collaborative effort is required to help understand mortality events on a global scale.
Multiple DNA repair pathways prevent acetaldehyde-induced mutagenesis in yeast
Authors: Porcher Latarsha , Vijayraghavan Sriram , Patel Yashvi , Becker Samuel , Blouin Thomas , McCollum James , Mieczkowski Piotr A , Saini Natalie
Published: December 2024

Acetaldehyde is the primary metabolite of alcohol and is present in many environmental sources including tobacco smoke. Acetaldehyde is genotoxic, whereby it can form DNA adducts and lead to mutagenesis. Individuals with defects in acetaldehyde clearance pathways have increased susceptibility to alcohol-associated cancers. Moreover, a mutation signature specific to acetaldehyde exposure is widespread in alcohol and smoking-associated cancers. However, the pathways that repair acetaldehyde-induced DNA damage and thus prevent mutagenesis are vaguely understood. Here, we used Saccharomyces cerevisiae to delete genes in each of the major DNA repair pathways to identify those that alter acetaldehyde-induced mutagenesis. We observed that loss of functional nucleotide excision repair (NER) had the largest effect on acetaldehyde mutagenesis. In addition, base excision repair (BER), as well as DNA protein crosslink (DPC) repair pathways were involved in modulating acetaldehyde mutagenesis, while mismatch repair (MMR), homologous recombination (HR) and post replication repair are dispensable for acetaldehyde mutagenesis. Acetaldehyde-induced mutations in an NER-deficient (Δrad1) background were dependent on translesion synthesis as well as DNA inter-strand crosslink (ICL) repair. Moreover, whole genome sequencing of the mutated isolates demonstrated an increase in C→A changes coupled with an enrichment of gCn→A changes which is diagnostic of acetaldehyde exposure in yeast and in human cancers. Finally, downregulation of the leading strand replicative polymerase Pol epsilon, but not the lagging strand polymerase, resulted in increased acetaldehyde mutagenesis, indicating that lesions are likely formed on the leading strand. Our findings demonstrate that multiple DNA repair pathways coordinate to prevent acetaldehyde-induced mutagenesis.
An expert consensus statement on biomarkers of ageing for use in intervention studies
Authors: Perri Giorgia , French Chloe , Agostinis-Sobrinho César , Anand Atul , Antarianto Radiana Dhewayani , Arai Yasumichi , Baur Joseph A , Cauli Omar , Clivaz-Duc Morgane , Colloca Giuseppe , Demetriades Constantinos , de Lucia Chiara , Di Gessa Giorgio , Diniz Breno S , Dotchin Catherine L , Eaglestone Gillian , Elliott Bradley T , Espeland Mark A , Ferrucci Luigi , Fisher James , Grammatopoulos Dimitris K , Hardiany Novi S , Hassan-Smith Zaki , Hastings Waylon J , Jain Swati , Joshi Peter K , Katsila Theodora , Kemp Graham J , Khaiyat Omid A , Lamming Dudley W , Gallegos Jose Lara , Madeo Frank , Maier Andrea B , Martin-Ruiz Carmen , Martins Ian J , Mathers John C , Mattin Lewis R , Merchant Reshma A , Moskalev Alexey , Neytchev Ognian , Ni Lochlainn Mary , Owen Claire M , Phillips Stuart M , Pratt Jedd , Prokopidis Konstantinos , Rattray Nicholas J W , Rúa-Alonso María , Schomburg Lutz , Scott David , Shyam Sangeetha , Sillanpää Elina , Tan Michelle M C , Teh Ruth , Tobin Stephanie W , Vila-Chã Carolina J , Vorluni Luigi , Weber Daniela , Welch Ailsa , Wilson Daisy , Wilson Thomas , Zhao Tongbiao , Philippou Elena , Korolchuk Viktor I , Shannon Oliver M
Published: December 2024

Biomarkers of ageing serve as important outcome measures in longevity-promoting interventions. However, there is limited consensus on which specific biomarkers are most appropriate for human intervention studies. This work aimed to address this need by establishing an expert consensus on biomarkers of ageing for use in intervention studies via the Delphi method.

A three-round Delphi study was conducted using an online platform. In Round 1, expert panel members provided suggestions for candidate biomarkers of ageing. In Rounds 2 and 3, they voted on 500 initial statements (yes/no) relating to 20 biomarkers of ageing. Panel members could abstain from voting on biomarkers outside their expertise. Consensus was reached when there was ≥70% agreement on a statement/biomarker.

Of the 460 international panel members invited to participate, 116 completed Round 1, 87 completed Round 2, and 60 completed Round 3. Across the 3 rounds, 14 biomarkers met consensus that spanned physiological (e.g., insulin-like growth factor 1, growth-differentiating factor-15), inflammatory (e.g., high sensitivity c-reactive protein, interleukin-6), functional (e.g., muscle mass, muscle strength, hand grip strength, Timed-Up-and-Go, gait speed, standing balance test, frailty index, cognitive health, blood pressure), and epigenetic (e.g., DNA methylation/epigenetic clocks) domains.

Expert consensus identified 14 potential biomarkers of ageing which may be used as outcome measures in intervention studies. Future ageing research should identify which combination of these biomarkers has the greatest utility.
Neuroprotective Effect of 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Against Cognitive Impairment in d-Galactose-Induced Aging Mice
Authors: Cai Ming , Wang Yiting , Lu Jingjing , Liang Yongchao , Yi Wenjie , Jiang Fei
Published: December 2024

Aging and age-related cognitive impairment have emerged as a growing global public health concern, yet there are no effective preventive strategies. Excessive oxidative stress and neuroinflammation have been proven to contribute to cognitive decline. Vitamin D maintains the redox balance and exerts immunomodulatory effects, but the specific role of vitamin D in aging and age-related cognitive impairment remains elusive. This study explored the neuroprotective effects and the potential molecular mechanisms of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in the aging model. An aging model was established by the treatment of d-galactose for 14 weeks in male KM mice. 0.1, 0.5, or 1 μg/kg 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 were used in the intervention group for 8 weeks. Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Morris water maze test, and the levels of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus were further analyzed. d-galactose induced memory impairment, whereas 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 intervention prevented cognitive decline, accompanied by a reduction in neuronal apoptosis, an enhancement of synaptic plasticity, and a decrease in Aβ deposition. Meanwhile, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 dramatically attenuated oxidative stress, mitigated microglial cell activation, and ameliorated neuroinflammation by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response elements (AREs) axis and inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. This study provides evidence that 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 might be a promising nutritional strategy for preventing cognitive decline in aging, thereby facilitating the clinical application and expanding the insight of vitamin D.
Key Predictors of Generativity in Adulthood: A Machine Learning Analysis
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to explore a broad range of predictors of generativity in older adults. The study encompassed over 60 predictors across multiple domains, including personality, daily functioning, socioeconomic factors, health status, and mental well-being.

Methods

This study employed a machine learning algorithm known as Random Forest. Data from the Midlife in the United States survey was used.

Results

Results revealed that social potency, openness, social integration, personal growth, and achievement orientation were the strongest predictors of generativity. Notably, many demographic (e.g., income) and health-related variables (e.g., chronic health conditions) were found to be much less predictive.

Discussion

This study provides new data-driven insights into the nature of generativity. The findings suggest that generativity is more closely associated with eudaimonic and plasticity-related variables (e.g., personal growth and social potency) rather than hedonic and homeostasis-oriented ones (e.g., life satisfaction and emotional stability). This indicates that generativity is an inherently dynamic construct, driven by a desire for exploration, social contribution, and personal growth.
Characterizing broad-band seismic dispersion and attenuation in carbonates with fractures and cavities: a numerical approach
Authors: Wang Yirong , Zhao Luanxiao , Quintal Beatriz , Geng Jianhua
Published: December 2024

Carbonates are highly heterogeneous and commonly develop large-scale fracture-cavity systems due to the strong diagenesis effect of dissolution, faulting and karstification. Understanding the seismic wave velocity and attenuation signatures is crucial for hydrocarbon exploration and recovery, carbon capture, geothermal exploitation and groundwater management using seismic methods. Nevertheless, due to the sample size limitation, traditional core-scale experiments and sonic logs fail to effectively unravel the essential factors controlling elastic and anelastic responses of those carbonates with large-scale heterogeneity. We developed a 2-D geology-constrained method for constructing digital rock models of carbonates with fracture-cavity systems, integrating outcrop data and statistical analyses. Using finite element simulations based on Biot's quasi-static equations of poroelastic consolidation, we examine the effects of cavity shape, size and number, as well as fracture number, length, width and angle, on wave dispersion and attenuation characteristics. Deep carbonate rocks with fracture-cavity systems exhibit wideband attenuation spanning over three orders of magnitude (from < 0.01 to >10 Hz), driven by coupled pore pressure relaxation mechanisms in the heterogeneous system. Horizontal attenuation was found to be roughly five times greater than vertical attenuation (as fractures are predominantly in a semi-vertical direction), highlighting significant attenuation anisotropy. While cavities have minimal effects on attenuation, fracture density and geometry—especially longer and narrower fractures—significantly influence wave dispersion and attenuation behaviour. These results underscore the importance of integrating both seismic velocity and attenuation data to enhance reservoir characterization reliability, and highlight the potential of using comprehensive broad-band seismic data and large-offset seismic data to improve geophysical interpretations of complex deep carbonate reservoirs.
Use of Crithidia fasciculata extract for the facile enzymatic synthesis of GDP-L-[3H]Fucose
Authors: Paredes Franco Jose Carlos , Güther Maria Lucia Sampaio , Ferguson Michael A J
Published: December 2024

For studies involving glycosyltransferases and nucleotide sugar transporters, radioactive nucleotide sugars are critical reagents. Of these, GDP-L-[3H]Fucose is currently commercially unavailable. Here, we present a facile approach for the preparation of GDP-[3H]-L-Fucose, using the enzymatic machinery present in the cytosol of the non-infectious and easily cultivated protozoan, Crithidia fasciculata, and its purification by solid phase extraction ion exchange chromatography.
Expression variation of long noncoding RNAs in dopaminergic cells-derived from stem cells and their MPP+ induced PD models
Authors: Behrouzi Abady Pamsary Setareh , Esmaeili Fariba , Dehghanian Fariba , Bahadori Mohammad Hadi
Published: December 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons (DA) which can be caused by environmental and genetic factors. lncRNAs have emerged as an important regulatory layer in neurodegenerative disorders, including PD. In this study, we investigated and validated lncRNAs that may serve as diagnostic or therapeutic targets for PD. Key genes associated with midbrain and DA cells were screened by differential gene expression analysis on GSE213100 dataset and candidate lncRNAs were selected for further examination. P19 cells were differentiated into DA cells and received treatment with MPP+ to induce PD-like cytotoxic events, which were confirmed by light microscopy, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Then, the cells were used to investigate the changes of lncRNAs Malat1, Norad, Snhg1 and Meg3. Here we found that the neuronal phenotype was mainly observed on the 12th day of differentiation and the number of DA markers significantly decreased in PD model cells compared with the control group. Moreover, the expression levels of Meg3, Norad, and Snhg1 were decreased by MPP+ whereas Malat1 level was noticeably higher in MPP+ cells compared to DA cells and the control group. In conclusion, the expression level of lncRNAs was able to show a significant difference between differentiated dopaminergic cells and their Parkinsonian model, thereby improving our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of PD.
Escherichia coli Nissle Improves Short-Chain Fatty Acid Absorption and Barrier Function in a Mouse Model for Chronic Inflammatory Diarrhea
Authors: Ye Zhenghao , Tan Qinghai , Woltemate Sabrina , Tan Xinjie , Römermann Dorothee , Grassl Guntram A , Vital Marius , Seidler Ursula , Kini Archana
Published: December 2024

Background

Defects in SLC26A3, the major colonic Cl−/HCO3− exchanger, result in chloride-rich diarrhea, a reduction in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria, and a high incidence of inflammatory bowel disease in humans and in mice. Slc26a3−/− mice are, therefore, an interesting animal model for spontaneous but mild colonic inflammation and for testing strategies to reverse or prevent the inflammation. This study investigates the effect of Escherichia coli Nissle (EcN) application on the microbiome, SCFA production, barrier integrity, and mucosal inflammation in slc26a3−/− mice.

Methods

In vivo fluid absorption and bicarbonate secretion were assessed in the gut of slc26a3+/+ and slc26a3−/− mice before and during luminal perfusion with 100 mM sodium acetate. Age-matched slc26a3+/+ and slc26a3−/− mice were intragastrically gavaged twice daily with 2 × 108 CFU/100 µL of EcN for 21 days. Body weight and stool water content were assessed daily, and stool and tissues were collected for further analysis.

Results

Addition of sodium acetate to the lumen of the proximal colon significantly increased fluid absorption and luminal alkalinization in the slc26a3−/− mice. Gavage with EcN resulted in a significant increase in SCFA levels and the expression of SCFA transporters in the slc26a3−/− cecum, the predominant habitat of EcN in mice. This was accompanied by an increase in mucus-producing goblet cells and a decrease in the expression of inflammatory markers as well as host defense antimicrobial peptides. EcN did not improve the overall diversity of the luminal microbiome but resulted in a significant increase in SCFA producers Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae in the slc26a3−/− feces.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that EcN is able to proliferate in the inflamed cecum, resulting in increased microbial SCFA production, decreased inflammation, and improved gut barrier properties. In sufficient dosage, probiotics may thus be an effective anti-inflammatory strategy in the diseased gut.
Validity and reliability of a method to estimate the potential harm of medication errors by considering both the likelihood and degree of harm
Authors: Al Atassi Rached , Chan Wing Shun , Jurjonaite Zivile , Kahsay Rahel , Samson Emily , Jones Matthew D
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To develop a tool to ‘risk score’ the potential harm of a medication error by estimating the probability of a range of potential consequences, and assess its feasibility, validity, and reliability.

Methods

The risk score tool described five levels of potential harm developed from an existing risk matrix. Judges estimated the likelihood of harm matching each level, from which a risk score (0–10) was calculated. Thirty judges (doctors, nurses, and pharmacists) used this risk score and the existing Dean and Barber scale to estimate the potential harm of 50 medication errors, 15 with a known outcome. Two weeks later, the judges re-scored ten of the errors. Reliability was investigated using generalizability theory.

Key findings

Fifty medication errors were judged in a mean of 49 minutes with ≤0.7% missing data. There were no significant differences in the judges’ rating of the realism and ease of use of the two tools. Fifty-nine per cent of judges preferred the risk score tool. For both tools, there was a clear relationship between mean score and known outcomes, with no overlap between outcome categories, confirming discriminative validity. The correlation between scores from both tools (R2 = 0.99) confirmed the concurrent criterion validity of the risk score. For both tools, at least three judges would need to score an error to obtain a generalizability coefficient of ≥0.8 using the mean score as an indicator of potential harm.

Conclusions

The risk score was feasible, valid, and reliable. Its performance was comparable with, but did not exceed, the Dean and Barber scale.
Coevolution of marine phytoplankton and Alteromonas bacteria in response to pCO2 and coculture
Authors: Lu Zhiying , Entwistle Elizabeth , Kuhl Matthew D , Durrant Alexander R , Barreto Filho Marcelo Malisano , Goswami Anuradha , Morris J Jeffrey
Published: December 2024

As a result of human activity, Earth’s atmosphere and climate are changing at an unprecedented pace. Models based on short-term experiments predict major changes will occur in marine phytoplankton communities in the future ocean, but rarely consider how evolution or interactions with other microbes may influence these changes. Here, we experimentally evolved several phytoplankton in coculture with a heterotrophic bacterium, Alteromonas sp. EZ55, under either present-day or predicted future pCO2 conditions. Growth rates of phytoplankton generally increased over time under both conditions, but only Thalassiosira oceanica had evidence of a growth rate tradeoff in the ancestral environment after evolution at elevated pCO2. The growth defects observed in ancestral Prochlorococcus cultures at elevated pCO2 and in axenic culture were diminished after evolution, possibly due to regulatory mutations in antioxidant genes. Except for Prochlorococcus, mutational profiles suggested phytoplankton experienced primarily purifying selection, but most Alteromonas lineages showed evidence of directional selection, where evolution appeared to favor a metabolic switch between growth on small organic acids with cyanobacteria versus catabolism of more complex carbon substrates with eukaryotic phytoplankton. Evolved Alteromonas were also poorer “helpers” for Prochlorococcus, consistent with that interaction being a competitive Black Queen process rather than a true mutualism. This work provides new insights on how phytoplankton will respond to increased pCO2 and on the evolutionary mechanisms governing phytoplankton:bacteria interactions. It also clearly demonstrates that both evolution and interspecies interactions must be considered to predict future marine biogeochemistry.
Biochemical and molecular mechanisms of Rhodococcus rhodochrous IITR131 for polyethylene terephthalate degradation
Authors: Srivastava Pallavi , Subramanian Srikrishna , Manickam Natesan
Published: December 2024

Aims

To isolate polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-degrading bacteria and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of PET biodegradation through biochemical and genome analysis.

Methods and results

Rhodococcus rhodochrous IITR131 was found to degrade PET. Strain IITR131 genome revealed metabolic versatility of the bacterium and had the ability to form biofilm on PET sheet, resulting in the cracks, abrasions, and degradation. IITR131 showed a reduction of 19.7%, exhibiting a half-life of 189.9 d of 0.1 mm PET film in 60 d and formed metabolites bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET), terephthalic acid (TPA), and benzoic acid (BA). The draft genome of 5.9 Mb of IITR131 revealed that this bacterium has plethora of genes such as terephthalate 1, 2 dioxygenase, carboxylesterase that together constituted a complete pathway for PET degradation. Moreover, strain IITR131 was found to have a variety of genes encoding for enzymes for the metabolism of several plastic polymers, xenobiotics including chloroalkanes, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Conclusions

Rhodococcus rhodochrous IITR131 demonstrated a significant potential in the biodegradation of PET. The comprehensive genomic and metabolic analyses further elucidated the molecular pathway involved in PET degradation, enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms underlying microbial PET biodegradation. These findings underscore the applicability of R. rhodochrous IITR131 in biotechnological approaches for mitigating plastic pollution.
Impact hazard analysis of islanding face mining based on micro-seismic monitoring and shock wave CT inversion
Authors: Wang Tao , Liu Xu , Liu Liyuan , Tang Jingxiao , Zhang Xipeng , Cao Fangshan
Published: December 2024

Considering the susceptibility of typical isolated working faces to intense ore pressure and the potential for rock burst disasters, this study employs micro-seismic monitoring and shock wave computed tomography (CT) inversion data from the 10304 isolated working face at Xinglongzhuang Coal Mine. The analysis focuses on the structural characteristics of the overburden rock and the evolutionary patterns of impact hazards within the isolated working face. The findings indicate that during mining operations in the vicinity of the cutting eye, the irregular coal pillar and the NF6 fault were subjected to mining-induced disturbances, which altered the stress conditions. A clustering of micro-seismic events was observed at the incision location, with events exhibiting energies surpassing 5×103 J. The reactivation of the NF6 fault within the 10303 goaf led to the rock fragmentation, resulting in a stress anomaly area within the same goaf. As the working face approached the F3 fault, the fault was influenced by the working face's disturbance, triggering fault activation. This results in extensive roof collapse, compromise of the surrounding rock's integrity, and an increase in the frequency of high-energy micro-seismic events to 756. Concurrently, a high-stress area emerged near the coal pillars on both adjacent sides of the goaf. By integrating micro-seismic monitoring, shock wave CT inversion data, and 3DEC numerical simulation outcomes, the regions of high stress concentration are precisely identified. This integrated approach allows for the assessment of impact risks and provides experience in preventing and controlling rock burst disasters.
High pyrethroid resistance is associated with high frequencies of 1014F and 1014S kdr mutations in Anopheles arabiensis (Diptera: Culicidae) from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Somda Zephirin , Zanré Nicolas , Wangrawa Dimitri W , Toé Hyacinthe K , Sombié Aboubacar , Saiki Erisha , Fukumoto Shinya , Sakurai Tatsuya , Sanon Antoine , McCall Philip J , Kanuka Hirotaka , Weetman David , Badolo Athanase
Published: December 2024

Malaria remains a major public health threat in Burkina Faso, as in most sub-Saharan Africa countries. Malaria control relies mainly on long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) and indoor residual spraying. In Burkina Faso, an escalating of insecticide resistance has been observed over the last decades. This study aimed to investigate insecticide resistance and the underlying mechanisms in Anopheles gambiae complex in Ouagadougou. Anopheles gambiae s.l. larvae were collected from gutters and ponds, in Zogona, Tampouy and Tanghin, 3 localities in Ouagadougou from July to October 2018. The larvae were reared in the laboratory to adults stage and susceptibility profile to pyrethroid, carbamate, and organophosphate insecticides was assessed using WHO tube assays. Mosquito species and mutations linked with insecticide resistance, were identified through PCR. More than 95% of the collected An. gambiae s.l. were An. arabiensis. An. arabiensis displayed high resistance to permethrin and deltamethrin, with mortalities below 30%, but was fully susceptible to bendiocarb, fenitrothion, and malathion. A high-frequency of the pyrethroid resistance-associated kdr mutation 1014F (0.81) was recorded, while the frequency of 1014S mutation (0.18) was lower. However, the carbamate and organophosphate-associated Ace-1 119S mutation was not detected. Localities and breeding site type appear to influence pyrethroid resistance in the An. arabiensis population of Ouagadougou. The high resistance to pyrethroids in An. arabiensis of urban Ouagadougou is underpinned, at least in part by high-frequency kdr mutations. This result supports the switch to next-generation LLINs, in well-established pyrethroid resistance zones of Burkina Faso including Ouagadougout
NOD-like receptor X1 promotes autophagy and inactivates NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome signaling by binding autophagy-related gene 5 to alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced neuronal injury
Authors: Peng Yufen , Long Yong , Wan Chenyi
Published: December 2024

Ischemic strokes pose serious risks to human health. We aimed to elucidate the function of NOD-like receptor X1 (NLRX1) in a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI) model and in an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R)-treated human microglial cell line (HMC3) model. Following NLRX1 upregulation, infarct volumes were measured with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining and pathological examination was conducted with hematoxylin-eosin staining. Results suggested that levels of NLRX1 were decreased in brain tissue of MCAO rats and in OGD/R-stimulated HMC3 cells. NOD-like receptor X1 overexpression mitigated the neuronal damage, reduced tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 expression, alleviated microglial activation, and induced autophagy in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, a coimmunoprecipitation assay indicated that NLRX1 bound to autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) to elevate ATG5 expression in HMC3 cells. Further, the elevated NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD, and cleaved caspase 1 expression in MCAO rats and HMC3 cells with OGD/R induction was reduced after NLRX1 upregulation. Importantly, ATG5 depletion abrogated the effects of NLRX1 elevation on NLRP3 inflammasome signaling. These results indicate that NLRX1 promotes autophagy and inactivates NLRP3 inflammasome signaling by binding ATG5 in experimental cerebral ischemia. These data may help the development of novel therapeutic strategies for ischemic stroke.
Normalization and cut-elimination theorems for some logics of evidence and truth
Authors: Coniglio Marcelo E , Figallo Martín , Rodrigues Abilio
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we investigate proof-theoretic aspects of the logics of evidence and truth $LET_{J}$ and $LET_{F}$. These logics extend, respectively, Nelson’s logic N4 and the logic of first-degree entailment, also known as Belnap–Dunn four-valued logic, with a classicality operator ${{\circ }}$ that recovers classical logic for formulas in its scope. We will present natural deduction and sequent systems for $LET_{J}$ and $LET_{F}$, together with proofs of normalization and cut-elimination theorems, respectively. As a corollary, we obtain decision procedures, which guarantees bottom-up proof search for both logics.
MEGA12: Molecular Evolutionary Genetic Analysis Version 12 for Adaptive and Green Computing
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Stecher Glen , Suleski Michael , Sanderford Maxwell , Sharma Sudip , Tamura Koichiro
Published: December 2024

We introduce the 12th version of the Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis (MEGA12) software. This latest version brings many significant improvements by reducing the computational time needed for selecting optimal substitution models and conducting bootstrap tests on phylogenies using maximum likelihood (ML) methods. These improvements are achieved by implementing heuristics that minimize likely unnecessary computations. Analyses of empirical and simulated datasets show substantial time savings by using these heuristics without compromising the accuracy of results. MEGA12 also links-in an evolutionary sparse learning approach to identify fragile clades and associated sequences in evolutionary trees inferred through phylogenomic analyses. In addition, this version includes fine-grained parallelization for ML analyses, support for high-resolution monitors, and an enhanced Tree Explorer. MEGA12 can be downloaded from https://www.megasoftware.net.
Modulating ion–dipole interactions in nonflammable phosphonate-based electrolyte for safe and stable sodium-ion pouch cells
Authors: Yang Zhuo , Dai Yingying , Xie Zheng-Kun , Li Shao-Bo , Lei Yao-Jie , Chen Jian , Zhou Xunzhu , Hao Zhi-Qiang , Tan Xin , Li Lin , Lai Wei-Hong , Li Li , Chen Wei-Hua , Chou Shu-Lei
Published: December 2024

Phosphonate-based electrolytes with the merits of low cost and intrinsic nonflammability are promising candidates to realize the safe operation of sodium-ion batteries. However, they generally suffer from poor interfacial chemistry because of the solvent-dominated solvation structure induced by the strong ion–dipole interactions between cations and phosphonate molecules. Herein, we report an electrolyte design strategy that selectively improves the competitive coordination of low-solvating–power molecules, achieving stable interfacial chemistry with a non-flammable, low-cost and fluorine-free electrolyte. By improving the ion–ion interaction between cation and anion, weakly coordinated molecules can enter the Na+ solvation shell, thereby promoting more adjustable and advantageous interfacial chemistry. As a result, the fluorine-free Prussian blue||hard carbon pouch cell, with a high cathode mass loading of ∼20 mg cm−2, reaches a high capacity retention with an energy density of over 221.7 Wh kg−1 based on electrode mass and 115.1 Wh kg−1 based on battery mass.
A few computations about the real cycle class map in low dimensions
Authors: Hornbostel Jens
Published: December 2024

We investigate the surjectivity of the real cycle class map from I-cohomology to classical integral cohomology for some real smooth varieties, in particular surfaces. This might be considered as one of several possible incarnations of real integral Hodge theory.
Overexpression of α-synuclein in Pigment Dispersing Factor neurons alters sleep–wake pattern by regulating lipid metabolism in Drosophila
Authors: Xia Dong , Chen Ying , Fu Xiang , Liu Hui-Yi , Sun Mu-Yan , Wang Fen , Zhang Yong , Liu Chun-Feng , Liu Jun-Yi
Published: December 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by the aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn). Current research increasingly indicates the prevalence of sleep–wake disorders in early-stage PD, although the underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, transgenic Drosophila models were utilized to observe excessive daytime sleepiness and impaired anticipation in flies overexpressing α-syn in pan-neurons and circadian clock neurons. Additionally, deficits in projection of Pigment Dispersing Factor (PDF) neuron terminals, which are involved in Drosophila sleep and circadian rhythm, were identified. An imbalance in lipid metabolism homeostasis was detected in the brains of α-syn overexpressing mutants. Ultimately, the inhibition of Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein (SREBP) activity led to an improvement in the reduced daytime sleep duration phenotype. Our results suggest that lipid pathways play a role in sleep–wake disorders triggered by α-syn mutation and aggregation, thereby providing valuable insights into potential therapeutic avenues for disrupted sleep patterns associated with PD.
New Italian tax dispositions on trusts
Authors: Loconte Stefano , Molteni Beatrice
Published: December 2024

As part of a huge tax reform project carried out by the Italian government over the past years, a new Legislative Decree (No. 139/2024) was issued in October 2024 by the Italian legislator to provide a rationalization of Registration Tax, Inheritance and Gift Tax, Stamp duty, and other indirect taxes, excluding Value Added Tax. In particular, new dispositions on indirect taxation of trusts have been introduced, which will have relevant impacts on tax planning and estate planning for individuals. In light of this, new considerations regarding existing and new trusts deserve to be addressed.
Biochemical study of the risk of diabetes, prediabetic and insulin resistance in car painters and its association with mercury exposure: a retrospective case–control study
Authors: Numan Ahmad Tarik , Jawad Nada Kadum , Fawzi Hayder Adnan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

There is controversy about the effect of mercury (Hg) exposure on developing diabetes and insulin resistance. This study aimed to assess the risk of diabetes and insulin resistance in car painters using biochemical markers and serum Hg levels.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study involving 210 male participants aged between 25 and 50 years. The participants were divided into two groups: Car painters for at least one year and healthy people who had not worked as car painters and had no health concerns or chronic diseases.

Results

The serum levels of Hg, MDA (malondialdehyde), interleukin (IL)-1β, visfatin, fasting insulin, and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were evaluated. Serum Hg levels were significantly higher in car painters compared to the control group (19.00 ± 7.20 vs. 8.339 ± 3.916 μg/L, P-value < 0.001). Serum levels of visfatin, MDA, insulin, FBG, and IL-1β were significantly higher in the car painter compared to the control (P-value < 0.001). There was a significantly higher proportion of people with diabetes in car painters compared to control (8.6% vs. 0%) and higher prediabetic (30.5% vs. 13.3%, P-value < 0.001). In car painter workers, levels of Hg were significantly higher in DM compared to prediabetic and normoglycemic car painter workers (27.01 ± 1.59, 23.98 ± 4.31, and 15.39 ± 6.41 μg/mL, respectively, P-value < 0.001); additionally, levels of Hg were significantly higher car painter with insulin resistance compared to non-insulin resistance workers (21.18 ± 7.29 vs. 16.79 ± 16.7 μg/mL, P-value < 0.001).

Conclusions

Increased serum Hg in car painters increases the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes/prediabetes status.
Metagenomic analysis and bioactive profiling of kombucha fermentation: antioxidant, antibacterial activities, and molecular docking insights into gastric cancer therapeutics
Authors: Shalini Thavasiaanatham Seenivasan , Prathiviraj Ragothaman , Senthilraja Poomalai
Published: December 2024

Kombucha is fermented and produced with a biofilm called a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, which is drunk all over the world for its beneficial effects on human health and energy levels. The metagenomic study of kombucha frequently detected microorganisms in proteobacteria, firmicutes, and actinobacteria. And also, yeast and fungi are Ascomycota and Basidiomycota is present in green leaf and sugarcane juice fermented kombucha. The kombucha extracts’ biological activities were assessed using pH, total phenolic content, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activity. Fermentation may enhance biological activity and the generation of bioactive substances. These results showed the pH −3.1 ± 0.2 and TPC −0.721 μg/mL of gallic acid equivalent. The antioxidant radicals scavenging activity of kombucha was evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, H2O2 and TAC. The bioactive chemicals identified by FT-IR and HR-LC/MS analysis of Kombucha totaled 45 components. The identified compounds were further move on to perform molecular docking study against gastric cancer target proteins 4H9M, 2DQ7 and 1TVO are binding with Nequinate compounds showing best LibDock scores 105.12, 114.49, and 108.97. So, this study suggests that knowledge can potentially active bioactive compounds are present in kombucha and it’s stimulated the mechanism of gastrointestinal transit. Additionally, the metagenomic analysis gives strength to understand the bacterial and fungal distribution and its molecular mechanism from Kombucha.
Population divergence in co-distributed Caribbean landfrogs (Eleutherodactylidae: Eleutherodactylus) along the Soufrière volcanic slope of Guadeloupe Island, Lesser Antilles
Authors: Myers Edward A , Alequín Luigie , Browne Ayanna , Mulder Kevin P , Rivera Danielle , Esposito Lauren A , Bell Rayna C , Hedges S Blair
Published: December 2024

Local adaptation to environmental heterogeneity across a landscape can result in population divergence and formation of lineages. On Guadeloupe Island, the active volcano, La Grande Soufrière, peaks at 1460 m a.s.l., with rainforest at low elevations transitioning to humid savannahs at high elevations. Two endemic sister species of Eleutherodactylus frogs are co-distributed across this habitat gradient, and previous studies have reported phenotypic differences between lowland and high-elevation populations in each species, in addition to potential ongoing hybridization between the species at high-elevation sites. Here we generate mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA genomic data along the elevational transect to quantify population genetic structure, provide historical context for the diversification of these island endemics, and identify potential bottlenecks attributable to the eruptive history of the volcano. We find that both taxa exhibit population clusters that correspond to low- and high-elevation localities; however, genetic divergence is not associated with climate variables or geographical distance. The timing of divergence between the species is estimated at ~3.75 Mya; demographic models indicate low levels of migration between the species after divergence, and we find that ongoing hybridization is likely to be limited. Finally, we find moderate heterozygosity across populations, suggesting that they were minimally impacted by recent volcanic activity. A version of this abstract translated to French can be found in the Supplementary Data. Une version de ce résumé traduite en français est disponible dans les Données Supplémentaires.
Melatonin mitigates intervertebral disc degeneration by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the EGR1/DDX3X pathway
Authors: Zhao Kangcheng , Zhang Yukun , Liao Zhiwei , Zhang Weifeng , Li Gaocai , Shi Pengzhi , Cheng Zhangrong , Chen Yuhang , Li Shuai , Wang Kun , Song Yu , Feng Xiaobo , An Ran , Yang Cao
Published: December 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), is one of the leading causes of low back pain. Inflammation is considered to be the main pathophysiological process of IVDD. The nucleotide‐binding domain and leucine‐rich pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome‐mediated inflammatory responses are critically involved in the progression of IVDD. Melatonin is known for its anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, little is known about the potential effects of melatonin in the pathological process of IVDD. We found that the expression of EGR1, DDX3X, and NLRP3 inflammasome increased and extracellular matrix (ECM) degraded in IVDD. With the application of EGR1 siRNA, the expression of DDX3X and the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome were inhibited in stress‐induced NP cells. DDX3X/NLRP3 was regulated on dependence of EGR1. Besides, the utility of melatonin mitigated the EGR1‐induced overproduction of DDX3X and activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, thus protecting cells from pyroptosis and ECM degradation. In vivo, in a rat IVDD model, melatonin was found to be able to delay the development of IVDD by imageological and histological evaluation. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that melatonin prevented IVDD progression by regulating EGR1/DDX3X/NLRP3 axis. Our study provides insight into melatonin as a new target for therapeutic approaches for IVDD.
Functional Brain Connectivity and Musical Training: Insights from EEG Phase Synchronization During Music Perception
Authors: Provorova Anna A. , Kulikova Sofya P.
Published: December 2024

Musical training profoundly impacts brain organization, fostering functional and structural adaptations that enhance auditory, motor, and cognitive processes. This study investigates functional connectivity differences between professional musicians and non-musicians during tasks involving music perception and different graphic notations. Using EEG phase-locking value (PLV) analysis, we examined synchronization across alpha, beta, and gamma frequency bands. Results revealed that musicians exhibited enhanced functional connectivity between brain regions, reflecting their ability to integrate auditory, visual, and cognitive information efficiently. In the alpha band, strong connectivity between the occipital and temporal regions was observed during all tasks, with additional synchronization between the parietal and temporal regions in tasks lacking pitch information. In the beta band, significant frontal-temporal connectivity was detected, indicating cognitive processing, while temporal-occipital synchronization emerged in specific tasks. In the gamma band, musicians demonstrated robust frontal-temporal and frontal-frontal synchronization, reflecting emotional and structural processing of music. Non-musicians showed reduced task-specific connectivity, relying on generalized strategies. These findings underscore the role of musical training in enhancing multimodal brain integration and cognitive flexibility, contributing to advanced music perception and processing.
Adaptation to cystine limitation stress promotes PDAC tumor growth and metastasis through translational upregulation of OxPPP
Authors: Li Yunzhan , Li Zekun , Sun Dongxiao , Ni Bo , Tan Mingjun , Shay Ashley E. , Wang Min , Meng Chenyang , Shen Guangcong , Fu Boyang , Shan Yueying , Zhou Tianxin , Xie Yongjie , Chen Kun-Ming , Qiao Bin , Dang Yunkun , Kimball Scot R. , Singh Pankaj K. , Wang Xiuchao , Hao Jihui , Yang Shengyu
Published: December 2024

Cystine/cysteine is critical for antioxidant response and sulfur metabolism in cancer cells and is one of the most depleted amino acids in the PDAC microenvironment. The effects of cystine limitation stress (CLS) on PDAC progression are poorly understood. Here we report that adaptation to CLS (CLSA) promotes PDAC cell proliferation and tumor growth through translational upregulation of the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (OxPPP). OxPPP activates thede novosynthesis of nucleotides and fatty acids to support tumor growth. Our data suggested that much like hypoxia, CLS in the tumor microenvironment could promote PDAC tumor growth and metastasis through upregulating anabolic metabolism of nucleotides and lipids.