bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Imaging Evaluating Performances Between Glymphatic System and Motor Symptoms and Levodopa Responsiveness of Parkinson Disease
Authors: Deng Jin-Huan , Zhang Han-Wen , Lan Xin-Xin , Liu Yu-Feng , Liu Xiao-Lei , Deng Hua-Zhen , Luo Si-Ping , Yao Gui-Zhi , Wu He-Lv , Huang Biao , Lin Fan
Published: January 2025

Background and Purpose:

Parkinson disease (PD) is defined by its unique motor symptoms, where responsiveness to levodopa (L-DOPA) is fundamental for management. Recent research has highlighted a significant relationship between PD symptoms and glymphatic dysfunction. This study endeavors to clarify the connection between glymphatic system functionality and initial motor symptoms in PD, utilizing imaging biomarkers to determine its predictive capacity for L-DOPA responsiveness (LR).

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective study of 86 PD patients with 3.0-T MRI scans (July 2019 to March 2021), assessing the diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) methods, enlarged perivascular spaces (ePVSs) load, and choroid plexus volume (CPV). Analyzed metrics versus the third part of the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRSIII) scores and %LR using linear regression, creating a %LR prediction model for the L-DOPA challenge. Explored relationships with age, sex, Hoehn and Yahr stage, Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores, and Mini-Mental State Examination score. Examined DTI-ALPS index, ePVSs, and CPV interrelations.

Results:

Pre-L-DOPA, UPDRSIII inversely correlated with DTI-ALPS index (P=0.049), positively with bilateral basal ganglia ePVSs (P<0.001). Age-adjusted BG-ePVSs-UPDRSIII link (P<0.001). Post-L-DOPA, UPDRSIII correlated similarly and CPV was positive. %LR positively linked to DTI-ALPS index (P<0.001), negatively to BG-ePVSs (P=0.04), CPV (P<0.001). Adjusted %LR-DTI-ALPS index positive (P=0.005), %LR-CPV negative (P=0.04). DTI-ALPS index, CPV predicted LCT outcomes (%LR ≥33%) with area under the curves 0.78, 0.79; accuracies 86.01%, 81.4%. The combined model area under the curve is 0.82, with an accuracy of 87.2%. Significant linear correlations were observed (CPV-DTI-ALPS, CPV-ePVSs, DTI-ALPS-ePVSs).

Conclusions:

A study affirms the link between glymphatic impairment, motor symptoms, and L-DOPA responses in PD. As glymphatic function declines, symptoms worsen, and L-DOPA effectiveness diminishes. The DTI-ALPS index and CPV emerge as potential predictors of PD patient LCT outcomes.
The Clinical Value of the MAR+ Metal Artifact Reduction Algorithm for Postoperative Assessment of Lumbar Internal Fixation
Authors: Fang Jiayi , Yu Fei , Yang Bin , Wang Guan , Si Guangyan
Published: January 2025

Background:

With the widespread use of lumbar pedicle screws for internal fixation, the morphology of the screws and the surrounding tissues should be evaluated. The metal artifact reduction (MAR) technique can reduce the artifacts caused by pedicle screws, improve the quality of computed tomography (CT) images after pedicle fixation, and provide more imaging information to the clinic.

Purpose:

To explore whether the MAR+ method, a projection-based algorithm for correcting metal artifacts through multiple iterative operations, can reduce metal artifacts and have an impact on the structure of the surrounding metal.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 57 patients who underwent lumbar spine CT examination after lumbar internal fixation from January to December 2023 in our hospital were retrospectively enrolled. The CT images were reconstructed using MAR+ and non-MAR+ techniques and were subdivided into MAR+ and non-MAR+ groups. The CT number (in Hounsfield units) and the SD noise values of the spinal canal, vertebral body, psoas major muscle, and adjacent fat were measured in the 2 groups of CT images, and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated. The subjective score was evaluated by two diagnostic radiologists using a double-blind method for image quality evaluation of the MAR+ group and the non-MAR+ group, and the image quality was classified on a 5-point scale. The rank-sum test was utilized to compare the subjective and objective scores of the 2 groups.

Results:

The SD values of the spinal canal (Z=−4.12, P<0.01), vertebral body (Z=−3.81, P<0.01), and psoas major muscle (Z=−3.87, P<0.01) in the MAR+ group were significantly lower than those in the non-MAR+ group (P<0.05). However, the SD values of the adjacent fat (Z=−2.03, P=0.42) in the MAR+ group, although smaller than those in the non-MAR+ group, were not statistically significant. The CNR values of vertebral canal (Z=−2.67, P=0.008) and fat (Z=−2.60, P=0.009) were higher in the MAR+ group than in the non-MAR+ group, whereas the CNR values of the vertebral body (Z=−6.74, P<0.01) in the MAR+ group were smaller than those in the non-MAR+ group, and the difference of all of them was statistically significant (P<0.05). Furthermore, for both CT and SNR values, the MAR group’s values were all less than those of the non-MAR group and were statistically significant (P<0.05). The subjective scores of the measurement points were all higher in the MAR+ group than in the non-MAR+ group.

Conclusions:

The MAR+ technique has a noise reduction effect on different tissues and artifacts are significantly reduced. Although the artifacts caused by metal screws were not completely eliminated, the MAR+ technique was able to reduce the interference of artifacts in the diagnosis of CT images, thus improving their diagnostic quality.
Isolated Lymph Node Metastasis as Initial Presentation of Collecting Duct Carcinoma on 68Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT
Authors: Wan Zibei , Zhang Feiyu , Wang Kan , Liu Ya , Huang Zhanwen
Published: January 2025

A 64-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with low back pain. Enhanced CT imaging revealed an isolated retroperitoneal mass. Since primary retroperitoneal lymphoma could not be ruled out, the patient was enrolled in our clinical trial of 68Ga-pentixafor PET/CT. The mass exhibited intense uptake of 68Ga-pentixafor and was subsequently confirmed as lymph node metastasis originating from collecting duct carcinoma. Our case demonstrated that 68Ga-pentixafor may lack specificity in distinguishing primary retroperitoneal lymphomas from other conditions.
Tumor Lesion Uptake of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-Rituximab in Skeletal and Splenic Disease in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Edamadaka Yeshwanth , Parghane Rahul V. , Basu Sandip
Published: January 2025

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and a sizable fraction of the DLBCL patients presents with advanced, relapsed, and refractory disease, demonstrating poor response to standard chemotherapy regimens. Radioimmunotherapy (RIT) has shown to be clinically effective in refractory DLBCL. We present the case of a patient with DLBCL with [18F]FDG-avid widespread skeletal as well as splenic involvement as poor prognostic extranodal disease on FDG PET/CT. RIT based on [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-rituximab was explored to study the biodistribution and dosimetry of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-rituximab in CD20-positive lymphoma. An exceptionally high tracer concentration in skeletal and splenic disease was observed, supporting its potential RIT application in relapsed and refractory DLBCL patients in the future.
Preventing and Treating Delayed Gastric Emptying (DGE) after Pancreatic Surgery
Authors: Montorsi Roberto M. , Strijbos Bo T.M. , Stommel Martijn W.J. , van Laarhoven Kees , Daams Freek , Busch Olivier R. , Probst Pascal , Cillo Umberto , Marchegiani Giovanni , Besselink Marc G.
Published: January 2025

Objective:

To identify strategies to prevent and treat delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after pancreatic surgery.

Background:

Among all complications of pancreatic surgery, DGE has the largest impact on prolonged hospital stay. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have addressed DGE after pancreatic surgery, either as primary or as secondary outcome.

Methods:

RCTs involving pancreatic surgery with DGE as primary or secondary outcome were identified using the online database of the ISGPS Evidence Map of Pancreatic Surgery (2007-2023). Meta-analysis was performed for impact on DGE grade B/C for interventions studied by at least 2 RCTs.

Results:

Overall, 152 RCTs were included with 22,260 patients undergoing pancreatic surgery. The overall rate of DGE grade B/C was 11.9%, including 12.7% after pancreatoduodenectomy and 4.2% after left pancreatectomy. No RCT identified an effective treatment of DGE grade B/C. Strategies which reduced the rate of DGE in at least one RCT included: prehabilitation, pancreatico-jejunostomy, antecolic gastrojejunostomy, Billroth II technique, pylorus resection, modified Roux-en-Y technique, no intraperitoneal drainage in left pancreatectomy, minimally invasive left pancreatectomy, minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy, mERAS, nasojejunal tube, and early oral feeding. Additional meta-analyses identified minimally-invasive left pancreatectomy as preventive for DGE grade B/C compared to open left pancreatectomy.

Conclusion:

This systematic review of RCTs identified 12 strategies which reduced the rate of DGE grade B/C after pancreatic surgery but no effective treatment strategy. Of the 12 preventive strategies, only minimally-invasive left pancreatectomy was confirmed effective in a meta-analysis. Future RCTs should focus on both prevention and treatment of DGE after pancreatic surgery.
Bio-inspired forward and backward swimming gaits resulting from fluid–structure interactions
Authors: Shah Chhote Lal , Dhileep Karthick , Huang Qiuxiang , Ravi Sridhar , Sarkar Sunetra
Published: January 2025

Biological undulatory swimmers display a wide range of gaits and are adept at swimming in different directions. This study explores the impact of passive dynamics as a result of fluid–structure interaction on the gaits of a model swimmer through computational simulations. Inspired by slender-bodied natural aquatic swimmers, the model consists of a flexible body and a rigid head. Systematically varying body stiffness and head pitching, the research replicates various swimming patterns observed in nature (both forward and backward). Optimal forward gaits, akin to anguilliformes and carangiformes, result from low to high bending rigidity and small pitching amplitudes. Conversely, low bending rigidity with high pitching amplitude produces backward swimming (tail-first), similar to mosquito larvae, exhibiting unique flow-field features and generating backward propulsion forces. The study underscores the significant role of passive dynamics in undulatory swimming and the potential for diverse gait generation through tailored structural and kinematic design in bio-inspired devices.
Comamonas halotolerans sp. nov., isolated from the faecal sample of a zoo animal, Naemorhedus caudatus
Authors: Park Yerim , Kim Bitnara , Min Jihyeon , Park Woojun
Published: January 2025

Strain NoAHT (=KACC 23135T=JCM 35999T), a novel Gram-negative, motile bacterium with a rod-shaped morphology, was isolated from the zoo animal faecal samples, specifically the long-tailed goral species Naemorhedus caudatus. The novel bacterial strain grew optimally in a nutrient broth medium under the following conditions: 1–2% (w/v) NaCl, pH 7–8 and 30 °C. The strain NoAHT exhibited high tolerance to NaCl, with the ability to tolerate up to 7% (w/v) NaCl. Based on phylogenetic analyses using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, strain NoAHT was found to have the closest relatedness to Comamonas jiangduensis YW1T (98.5%), Comamonas aquatica ATCC 11330T (97.9%), Comamonas resistens KCTC 82561T (97.9%), Comamonas fluminis CJ34T (97.7%) and Comamonas suwonensis EJ-4T (97.6%). The genome size and genomic DNA G+C content of strain NoAHT were 4.05 Mbp and 55.9 mol%, respectively. A whole-genome-level comparison of strain NoAHT with C. jiangduensis YWT, Comamonas kerstersii LMG 3475T, C. aquatica NBRC 14918T, Comamonas terrigena NBRC 12685T and C. fluminis CJ34T revealed the following orthologous average nucleotide identity values: 80.1, 79.0, 78.6, 76.3 and 75.2%, respectively. The major polar lipids of strain NoAHT were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol. Considering our findings in chemotaxonomic, genotypic and phenotypic characteristics, strain NoAHT is identified as a novel species within the genus Comamonas, for which the name Comamonas halotolerans sp. nov. is proposed.
Impact of dairy calf management practices on the intestinal tract microbiome pre-weaning
Authors: Carroll Aisling , Bell Matt J. , Bleach Emma C.L. , Turner Dann , Williams Lisa K.
Published: January 2025

Introduction. Microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) consisting of the rumen and hindgut (the small intestine, cecum and colon) in dairy calves play a vital role in their growth and development. This review discusses the development of dairy calf intestinal microbiomes with an emphasis on the impact that husbandry and rearing management have on microbiome development, health and growth of pre-weaned dairy calves.

Discussion. The diversity and composition of the microbes that colonize the lower GIT (small and large intestine) can have a significant impact on the growth and development of the calf, through influence on nutrient metabolism, immune modulation, resistance or susceptibility to infection, production outputs and behaviour modification in adult life. The colonization of the calf intestinal microbiome dynamically changes from birth, increasing microbial richness and diversity until weaning, where further dynamic and drastic microbiome change occurs. In dairy calves, neonatal microbiome development prior to weaning is influenced by direct and indirect factors, some of which could be considered stressors, such as maternal interaction, environment, diet, husbandry and weaning practices. The specific impact of these can dictate intestinal microbial colonization, with potential lifelong consequences.

Conclusion. Evidence suggests the potential detrimental effect that sudden changes and stress may have on calf health and growth due to management and husbandry practices, and the importance of establishing a stable yet diverse intestinal microbiome population at an early age is essential for calf success. The possibility of improving the health of calves through intestinal microbiome modulation and using alternative strategies including probiotic use, faecal microbiota transplantation and novel approaches of microbiome tracking should be considered to support animal health and sustainability of dairy production systems.
Inactivation of Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli with dielectric barrier discharged cold atmospheric plasma: a comparative study with antimicrobial drugs
Authors: Talukdar Punam , Gohain Reetesh Borpatra , Bharadwaj Pranami , Thakur Debajit , Biswas Subir
Published: January 2025

Introduction. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has emerged as a promising technology for neutralizing microbes, including multidrug-resistant strains. This study investigates CAP’s potential as an alternative to traditional antimicrobial drugs for microbial inactivation.

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. In the era of increasing antimicrobial resistance, there is a persistent need for alternative antimicrobial strategies. CAP exerts its effects by generating reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), but its comparative efficacy against antimicrobial drugs requires further exploration.

Aim. To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of CAP in inactivating multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli (ATCC BAA-2469), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 96) and Candida albicans (MTCC 227) and to compare its effectiveness with standard antimicrobial drugs.

Methodology. CAP, produced by an indigenously developed dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) setup comprising a quartz-glass-covered high-voltage electrode and a grounded stainless steel mesh electrode, was used to treat three pathogenic samples with varying treatment times (0–60 s). The zone of inhibition (ZoI; zone where microbes cannot grow) induced by CAP was compared with the ZoI of selected antimicrobial drugs (5–300 mcg). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysed morphological changes, while optical emission spectroscopy (OES) detected RONS generated during treatment. Growth curve analysis assessed CAP’s impact on microbial growth, and statistical analysis compared CAP-induced ZoI with drug-induced ZoI.

Results. CAP treatment produced substantial ZoI against E. coli, S. aureus and C. albicans, with the largest ZoI (1194±35.35 mm²) in C. albicans after 60 s. DBD–CAP showed equivalent or superior efficacy compared with selected antimicrobial drugs based on ZoI comparisons. SEM revealed extensive cellular damage in all three pathogens, with visible morphological disruption within 60 s. Growth curve analysis showed a significant delay in microbial proliferation with increasing CAP exposure, effectively inhibiting growth over 24 h. OES confirmed the presence of RONS-related molecular bands [N2(C–B), N2
+(B–X) and OH(A–X)] and atomic O lines in the CAP.

Conclusion. CAP treatment exhibits equivalent or superior antimicrobial activity compared to selected antimicrobial drugs. CAP treatment exerts effects by inactivating pathogens, disintegrating cellular morphology and delaying microbial growth. These findings highlight CAP as a promising alternative to prolonged treatments, addressing antimicrobial resistance and advancing clinical strategies.
Virus detection by CRISPR-Cas9-mediated strand displacement in a lateral flow assay
Authors: Montagud-Martinez Roser , Marquez-Costa Rosa , Ruiz Raul , Martinez-Avino Adria , Ballesteros-Garrido Rafael , Navarro David , Campins-Falco Pilar , Rodrigo Guillermo
Published: January 2025

In public health emergencies or in resource-constrained settings, laboratory-based diagnostic methods, such as RT-qPCR, need to be complemented with accurate, rapid, and accessible approaches to increase testing capacity, as this will translate into better outcomes in disease prevention and management. Here, we develop an original nucleic acid detection platform by leveraging the CRISPR-Cas9 and lateral flow immunochromatography technologies. In combination with an isothermal amplification that runs with a biotinylated primer, the system exploits the interaction between the CRISPR-Cas9 R-loop formed upon targeting a specific nucleic acid and a fluorescein-labelled probe to generate a visual readout on a lateral flow device. Our method enables rapid, sensitive detection of nucleic acids, achieving a limit of 1-10 copies/μL in 1 h at low temperature. We validated the efficacy of the method using clinical samples of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Compared to other assays, it operates with more accessible molecular elements and showcases a robust signal-to-noise ratio. Moreover, multiplexed detection was demonstrated using primers labeled with biotin and digoxigenin, achieving simultaneous identification of target genes on lateral flow devices with two test lines. We successfully detected SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A (H1N1) in spiked samples, highlighting the potential of the method for multiplexed diagnostics of respiratory viruses. All in all, this represents a versatile and manageable platform for point-of-care testing, thereby supporting better patient outcomes and enhanced pandemic preparedness.
Nipah virus matrix protein utilizes cortical actin to stabilize the virus assembly sites and promote budding
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Kliemke Vicky , Liu Jinxin , Matta Giuliana Leonarda , Wang Qian , Luo Yuhang , Zhang Mengyu , Liu GuanQun , Liu Qian
Published: January 2025

Several families of enveloped viruses assemble and bud from the host cell plasma membranes (PM), including paramyxoviruses. Nipah virus (NiV) is a deadly zoonotic paramyxovirus causing yearly outbreaks in Southeast Asia with >75% mortality. NiV encodes matrix proteins (M) that drive assembly and budding. NiV-M forms dimers and interacts with membrane lipids in the host cell’s PM for budding. Using single-molecule localization microscopy and single-particle tracking, we show that the host F-actin maintains the nanoscale organization of NiV assembly sites at the PM. This F-actin-dependent integrity of NiV assembly sites is observed at the membrane retention stage after the assembly process is complete, rather than during the recruitment of NiV-M molecules to these sites. NiV-M interacts with actin via its C-terminal domain. We also show that the actin-branching factor, Arp2/3 complex, promotes virus-like-particle production. Meanwhile, inhibiting Arp2/3 disfavors the PM retention of NiV assembly sites and NiV-M-mediated generation of membrane protrusions, but does not affect the assembly rate. This suggests that Arp2/3-nucleated actin polymerization and branching are critical for maintaining NiV-M assembly sites at the PM, allowing it to facilitate membrane protrusion generation for virus budding. Our findings support the following model: NiV-M interacts with F-actin through its C-terminus to remain at the host PM after assembly completion. This F-actin-dependent retention is promoted by the Arp2/3-driven actin branching and polymerization, which also drives the formation of NiV-M-induced membrane protrusions necessary for virus budding.

Significance

Nipah virus (NiV) is a deadly paramyxovirus capable of animal-animal and animal-human transmissions. To produce a NiV particle, the NiV matrix protein (M) must create an assembly site by binding to the surface of an infected cell and pushing the cell membrane outward for virus budding. To do so, the NiV matrix protein must co-opt or overcome an actin network underneath the cell membrane. We provide single-molecule evidence that M interacts with the actin cytoskeleton for membrane retention but not recruitment of M to existing assembly sites. This process is promoted by the Arp2/3-driven actin branching and polymerization. Our findings suggest the role of actin remodeling in NiV budding and identify a druggable site at the C-terminus of NiV-M.
Pilidium lythri: A Climate-Driven Disruptor of Plant-Associated Microbiomes and Ecological Stability
Authors: Siegieda Dominika , Panek Jacek , Hannula S. Emilia , Frąc Magdalena
Published: January 2025

Although ongoing global warming is an important driver of phytopathogen spread to new areas, little is known on how fungal pathogens disrupt fragile balance in plant-microbe interactions. After assessing high adaptability of emergingPilidium lythrito growing temperatures, we analysed its impact on microbiome structure of soil (bulk soil, rhizosphere) and strawberry plant (roots) niches. For this, we employed high-throughput marker sequencing and various statistical models. Our results revealed thatP. lythriinfection disrupted microbial community assembly processes, transitioning from deterministic to stochastic dynamics in the rhizosphere and bulk soil, aligning with the Anna Karenina Principle. Fungal microbiome diversity increased locally in infected rhizospheres, while microbial migration patterns highlighted shifts in community interactions. Network analysis underscoredP. lythri’s role in destabilizing fungal community connectivity, enhancing antagonistic interactions, and occupying a central ecological niche. This study provides valuable insights into how spreading phytopathogens modulate microbial equilibrium in the plant holobiont, with implications of managing emerging threats in agriculture.
Gut microbiota phospholipids regulate intestinal gene expression and can counteract the effects of antibiotic treatment
Authors: Zhang Xue-Song , Wang Yujue , Sun Haipeng , Zerbe Christa , Falcone Emilia , Bhattacharya Sneha , Zhang Meifan , Gao Zhan , Diaz-Rubio Maria Elena , Bharj Disha , Patel Disha , Pan Samuel , Ro Gabrielle , Grenard Jessica , Armstrong Abigail , Yin Yue Sandra , Dominguez-Bello Maria Gloria , Holland Steven , Su Xiaoyang , Blaser Martin J.
Published: January 2025

The gut microbiome influences immune and metabolic homeostasis. Our research using non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice revealed that early-life antibiotic exposure remodels the gut microbiome affecting metabolism and accelerating type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence, with cecal material transplant (CMT) mitigating the damage. Now examining murine intestinal lipidomic profiles, we identified 747 compounds. Comparing the lipidomic profiles of cecal contents of conventional and germ-free mice and their diets, we identified 87 microbially-produced lipids reduced by antibiotic exposure but CMT-restored. Parallel analysis of human fecal lipid profiles after azithromycin-exposure showed significant alterations with substantial overlap with mice.In vitroco-culture with mouse macrophages or small intestinal epithelial cells and human colonic epithelial cells identified phospholipids that repress inflammation through the NFκB pathway. Oral administration of these phospholipids to antibiotic-treated NOD mice reduced expression of ileal genes involved in early stages of T1D pathogenesis. These findings indicate potential therapeutic anti-inflammatory roles of microbially-produced lipids.
Fine-tuning mechanical constraints uncouples patterning and gene expression in murine pseudo-embryos
Authors: Pineau Judith , Wong-Ng Jerome , Mayran Alexandre , Lopez-Delisle Lucille , Osteil Pierre , Shoushtarizadeh Armin , Duboule Denis , Gobaa Samy , Gregor Thomas
Published: January 2025

The interplay between mechanical forces and genetic programs is fundamental to embryonic development, yet how these factors independently or jointly influence morphogenesis and cell fate decisions remains poorly understood. Here, we fine-tune the mechanical environment of murine gastruloids, three-dimensionalin vitromodels of early embryogenesis, by embedding them in bioinert hydrogels with precisely tunable stiffness and timing of application. This approach reveals that external constraints can selectively influence transcriptional profiles, patterning, or morphology, depending on the level and timing of mechanical modulation. Gastruloids embedded in ultra-soft hydrogels (< 30 Pa) elongate robustly, preserving both anteroposterior patterning and transcriptional profiles. In contrast, embedding at higher stiffness disrupts polarization while leaving gene expression largely unaffected. Conversely, earlier embedding significantly impacts transcriptional profiles independently of polarization defects, highlighting the uncoupling of patterning and transcription. These findings suggest that distinct cellular states respond differently to external constraints. Live imaging and cell tracking imply that impaired cell motility underlies polarization defects, underscoring the role of mechanical forces in shaping morphogenesis independently of transcriptional changes. By allowing precise control over external mechanical boundaries, our approach provides a powerful platform to dissect how physical and biochemical factors interact to orchestrate early embryonic development.
Eye movement patterns under exposure to spatial disorientation illusions during simulated flight
Authors: Harel Maya , Nakdimon Idan , Schonberg Tom
Published: January 2025

Objective: To analyze eye-tracking patterns contributing to or mitigating spatial disorientation (SD) during flight, providing insights to reduce its impact. Background: SD is a significant contributor to aviation mishaps, often resulting from misinterpreted sensory cues, leading to an incorrect understanding of the aircraft's position, attitude, or motion. Understanding eye-scanning behaviors associated with SD can improve training and reduce incidents. Method: Eye movements of 45 participants (30 aircrew members, 15 cadets) were recorded using Tobii Pro Glasses 2 during SD-inducing flight simulations in the Gyro-IPT SD simulator. Metrics such as fixations, saccades, and visits were compared between SD and non-SD groups, and statistical analyses were performed to identify differences. Results: Among 284 flight profiles, 136 SD events were recorded across 30 aircrew and 15 cadets. Some illusions targeted navigators, F-15 aircrew, or active aircrew instead of cadets. SD events during visual illusions were more likely with frequent instrument panel checks. In contrast, vestibular illusions showed the opposite effect and had a higher probability of causing an SD event among participants who examined the HUD in greater frequencies. Conclusion: Efficient SD mitigation requires task-specific eye-scanning strategies: visual illusions demand greater instrument focus, while vestibular illusions benefit from HUD engagement. Application: Implementing the knowledge and training based on the current results can improve performance in flight profiles with high SD risk. There is potential to develop a real-time alert system installed on aircraft during real flights, helping to mitigate or entirely eliminate the fatal results of SD events.
Chemical Synthesis of Oligosaccharides Derived fromStreptococcus pneumoniaeSerotype 35B and D to Investigate Binding of Complement and Serum Factors
Authors: Gagarinov Ivan A. , Liu Lin , Boons Geert-Jan
Published: January 2025

The wide use ofStreptococcus pneumoniaecapsular polysaccharide (CPS) conjugate vaccines is causing serotype replacement and the emergence of serotype 35B is concerning because of its multidrug resistance. CPS of 35B is composed of pentasaccharide repeating units that are linked through phosphodiester linkages. One of the galactofuranose residues of the pentasaccharide is acetylated, which distinguishes it from the invasive serotype 35D lacking the acetyl ester. Here, we describe a synthetic approach that can provide oligosaccharides derived of CPS 35B and 35D composed of up to 15 monosaccharides using a pentasaccharide building block equipped with four orthogonal protecting groups. The synthetic compounds were used to examine binding properties of ficolin-2, which is a protein that can activate the lectin pathway of the complement system. It was found thatO-acetylation is essential for recognition by ficolin-2 requiring at least two repeating units. The data provides a rationale why 35D may escape immune detection and be more invasive. The synthetic oligosaccharides were also investigated for binding to pneumococcal serum factor 35a and 29b, which are employed for serotype identification. It indicates that immunization with 35B CPS will not provide protection against 35D and thus inclusion of 35B in vaccines may result in serotype replacement by 35D. On the other hand, antibodies that can bind 35D can recognize 35B and thus 35D CPS may provide cross protection. Our findings have direct implementation for the development of the next generation pneumococcal vaccine and provide an understanding of disease severity by the emerging serotype 35B and 35D.
TadA-Derived Cytosine Base Editor for Precise Genome Editing in Zebrafish
Authors: Qin Wei , Lin Sheng-Jia , Petree Cassidy , Varshney Pratishtha , Varshney Gaurav K.
Published: January 2025

CRISPR base editors are crucial for precise genome manipulation. Existing APOBEC-based cytosine base editors (CBEs), while powerful, exhibit indels and sequence context limitations, where TC-context preferences restrict effective editing of CC and GC motifs. To address these challenges, we evaluated various tRNA adenine deaminase (TadA)-derived CBEs, ultimately engineering zTadCBE that demonstrates high editing efficiency, minimized off-target effects, and an expanded targeting range. Our approach integrates beneficial mutations from TadA-based adenine base editors (ABEs) with SpRYCas9n-enhanced protospacer-adjacent motif (PAM) compatibility. Additionally, we engineered expanded-window zTadCBE variants, zTadCBE-ex1 and zTadCBE-ex2, to target wider nucleotide ranges, further increasing the versatility of this tool. To demonstrate the utility of zTadCBE variants in the functional assessment of genetic mutants, we generated a model for CDH23-associated hearing loss to validate the pathogenicity of a patient-specific variant in zebrafish. Furthermore, we induced a premature stop codon in the mediator complex genemed12to inactivate its function using a CRISPR-STOP strategy and recapitulated patient-specific phenotypes in the founding (F0) generation. zTadCBE variants thus offer a robust set of CBEs for precise and efficient C-to-T editing in zebrafish, promising to advance the rapid functional assessment of genetic variants in vivo.
Maximal non-Kochen-Specker sets and a lower bound on the size of Kochen-Specker sets
Authors: Williams Tom , Constantin Andrei
Published: January 2025

The challenge of determining bounds for the minimal number of vectors in a three-dimensional Kochen-Specker (KS) set has captivated the quantum foundations community for decades. This paper establishes a weak lower bound of 10 vectors, which does not surpass the current best-known bound of 24 vectors. By exploring the complementary concept of large non-KS sets and employing a probability argument independent of the graph structure of KS sets, we introduce a technique that could be applied in the future to derive tighter bounds. Additionally, we highlight an intriguing connection to a generalization of the moving sofa problem in navigating a right-angled hallway on the surface of a two-dimensional sphere.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Can charm fluctuation be a better probe to study the QCD critical point?
Authors: Goswami Kangkan , Pradhan Kshitish Kumar , Sahu Dushmanta , Dey Jayanta , Sahoo Raghunath
Published: January 2025

We study the diffusion properties of an interacting hadron gas and evaluate the diffusion coefficient matrix for the baryon, strange, electric, and charm quantum numbers. For the first time, this study sheds light on the charm current and estimates the diffusion matrix coefficient for the charmed states by treating them as a part of the quasithermalized medium. We explore the diffusion matrix coefficient as a function of temperature and center-of-mass energy. A van der Waals–like interaction is assumed between the hadrons, including attractive and repulsive interactions. The calculation of diffusion coefficients is based on relaxation time approximation to the Boltzmann transport equation. A good agreement with available model calculations is observed in the hadronic limit. To conclude the study, we discuss, with a detailed explanation, that charm fluctuation is expected to be a better tool for probing the QCD critical point.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Minimal
SO(10)
near the edge: The importance of being effective
Authors: Preda Anca , Senjanović Goran , Zantedeschi Michael
Published: January 2025

The minimal SO(10) grand unified theory, augmented by higher-dimensional operators, is based on the following Higgs representations: adjoint 45H, spinor 16H, and complex vector 10H. It was recently realized that, as opposed to the conventional wisdom, any intermediate mass scale has to lie close to the grand unification one. This bears profound consequences for the scalar particles mass spectrum and the proton decay lifetime. A complete analysis of the parameter space shows the following interesting correlation under the requirement of perturbativity of the theory: a color octet below approximately 5 TeV would imply a lower bound on neutrino mass mν≳0.2  eV, soon to be probed; a scalar weak triplet below 500 GeV; and a scalar-like quark below 3 TeV. If one were to stick to no flavor cancellations in proton decay amplitudes, one would recover a recent result of all these states being accessible at collider energies. Moreover, the proton decay lifetime would then be tantalizingly close to the present experimental bound.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Dilution of dark matter relic abundance due to first order electroweak phase transition in the singlet scalar extended type-II seesaw model
Authors: Roy Subhojit
Published: January 2025

We investigate the effect of a first-order electroweak phase transition (FOEWPT), which is one of the prerequisites for electroweak baryogenesis, on the thermal relic abundance of the dark matter (DM) that freezes out before the occurrence of the phase transition in the complex singlet scalar extended Z3-invariant type-II seesaw model that can simultaneously provide a DM candidate, explain the nonvanishing neutrino masses and the baryon asymmetry of the Universe. Such a phase transition around the electroweak scale leaves an impact on the relic density due to the release of entropy, particularly for a TeV-scale DM. We thus concentrate on the region of parameter space of the said model, which favors an FOEWPT in the early Universe and for which the DM is heavy such that its freeze-out temperature turns out to be larger than the phase transition temperature. We further study the dependencies of the dilution factor of the DM relic density on the model parameters, the nucleation temperature, the strength and the duration of the phase transition. Such a dilution might retrieve some of the regions of parameter space that were previously ruled out by the measured value of the DM relic density and/or the latest constraints from the DM direct-detection experiments. Furthermore, a direct connection is drawn between the dilution factor and the generation of stochastic gravitational waves as a result of an FOEWPT.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Transition rate and gravitational wave spectrum from first-order QCD phase transitions
Authors: Shao Jingdong , Mao Hong , Huang Mei
Published: January 2025

We investigate the gravitational wave spectrum induced by first-order quantum chromodynamics (QCD) phase transitions, e.g., the confinement-deconfinement phase transition of the pure gluon system and the chiral phase transitions in the quark-meson model and Polyakov quark-meson model. The gravitational wave power spectra are sensitive to the phase transition rate β/H. All QCD models predict a relatively large phase transition rate in the order of β/H∼104 at high temperature region, and the produced gravitational waves lie in the peak frequency region of 10−4–0.01  Hz, corresponding to an energy spectrum in the range of 10−8–10−7, which can be detected by LISA and Taiji. If a high baryon density region is generated through Affleck-Dine baryogenesis or other mechanisms, the baryon chemical potential significantly reduces the phase transition rate, which will drop to the order of β/H∼101, thus leading to the production of nanohertz gravitational waves. Furthermore, there exists a critical quark chemical potential with zero phase transition rate β/H=0, indicating that the false vacuum will not decay, which supports the formation of primordial quark nuggets in the early Universe.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Synaptic motility and functional stability in the whisker cortex
Authors: Sherf Nimrod , Shamir Maoz
Published: January 2025

The high motility of synaptic weights raises the question of how the brain can retain its functionality in the face of constant synaptic remodeling. Here we used the whisker system of rats and mice to study the interplay between synaptic plasticity (motility) and the transmission of sensory signals downstream. Rats and mice probe their surroundings by rhythmically moving their whiskers back and forth. The azimuthal position of a whisker can be estimated from the activity of whisking neurons that respond selectively to a preferred phase along the whisking cycle. These preferred phases are widely distributed on the ring. However, simple models for the transmission of the whisking signal downstream predict a distribution of preferred phases that is an order of magnitude narrower than empirically observed. Here, we suggest that synaptic plasticity in the form of spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) may provide a solution to this conundrum. This hypothesis is addressed in the framework of a modeling study that investigated the STDP dynamics in a population of synapses that propagates the whisking signal downstream. The findings showed that, for a wide range of parameters, STDP dynamics do not relax to a fixed point. As a result, the preferred phases of downstream neurons drift in time at a nonuniform velocity, which in turn induces a nonuniform distribution of the preferred phases of the downstream population. This demonstrates how functionality, in terms of the distribution of preferred phases, can be retained not simply despite, but because of constant synaptic motility. Our analysis leads to several key empirical predictions to test this hypothesis.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Generalized Hydrodynamics: A Perspective
Authors: Doyon Benjamin , Gopalakrishnan Sarang , Møller Frederik , Schmiedmayer Jörg , Vasseur Romain
Published: January 2025

Conventional hydrodynamics describes systems with few long-lived excitations. In one dimension, however, many experimentally relevant systems feature a large number of long-lived excitations and conserved quantities even at high temperature, because they are proximate to integrable limits. Such models cannot be treated using conventional hydrodynamics. The framework of generalized hydrodynamics (GHD) was recently developed to treat the dynamics of one-dimensional models: It combines ideas from integrability, hydrodynamics, and kinetic theory to come up with a quantitative theory of transport. GHD has successfully settled several long-standing questions about one-dimensional transport; it has also been leveraged to study dynamical questions beyond the transport of conserved quantities and to systems that are not integrable. In this article, we introduce the main ideas and predictions of GHD, survey some of the most recent theoretical extensions and experimental tests of the GHD framework, and discuss some open questions in transport that the GHD perspective might elucidate.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Linking sources of employee support to life insurance agents’ retention: the role of felt obligation
Authors: Ramasamy Siva Kumar , Sri Ramalu Subramaniam
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study is the maiden attempt to understand the influence of four specific sources of employee support (SES), on the life insurance agents’ retention (AR) with the mediation of felt obligation (FO) in the context of the life insurance industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a quantitative methodology and used the partial least squares-structural equation modelling to test the hypotheses of the study. Using convenience sampling method and a web-based questionnaire, this study gathered data from agents (n 265) of life insurance companies located in the central region of Malaysia.

Findings

The results reveal a positive relationship between all SES and AR. This means when agents perceive higher levels of support from their supervisors, peers, technology and mentors, they are more likely to remain in the industry. Contrary to the expectations, FO does not mediate the relationship between SES and AR, indicating that SES directly influences AR without the involvement of FO.

Originality/value

This study is the first to explore how an integrated model of SES influences AR within the Malaysian life insurance industry. The model takes a comprehensive approach, incorporating various SES including the less studied perceived technological support in influencing AR through the framework of social exchange theory.
Beyond instinct: the influence of artificial intelligence on investment decision-making among Gen Z investors in emerging markets
Authors: Maheshwari H. , Samantaray Anup K.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

In the modern financial landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is gaining prominence, offering significant economic advantages. This research paper aims to investigate the impact of Behavioural Biases (BB) such as Overconfidence Bias (OCB), Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), Herding Bias (HB) and Regret Aversion Bias (RAB) on Investment Decision-Making (IDM). Additionally, it explores how the AI-led Adoption of Digital Advisory Services (ADAS) moderates these biases among Gen Z investors in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a convenience sampling method, gathering 457 responses from Gen Z investors in India through an online survey questionnaire. The data was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results confirm a significant relationship between OCB, FOMO, HB and RAB on IDM. The study also found that ADAS significantly moderated the relationship between FOMO and IDM, as well as between HB and IDM. However, the moderation effect of ADAS was not supported for the relationships between OCB and IDM, and RAB and IDM.

Practical implications

This research offers valuable insights for academics, individual investors, fintech companies and policymakers. It highlights how behavioural biases affect IDM and underscores the importance of AI-enabled digital services in helping Gen Z investors recognize and manage these biases. Policymakers can use these insights to establish standards for AI use, ensuring regulatory compliance and promoting ethical conduct in AI-driven investment decisions.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study lies in its conceptual approach, particularly in examining the moderation role of ADAS in addressing behavioural biases among Gen Z investors.
Design and development of graduated compression garment with adhesive stripes using 3D virtual fitting technology
Authors: Černiavskaja Ana , Ancutienė Kristina , Valatkienė Loreta
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The goal of this research is to utilize 3D virtual fitting technology to design and develop a customized full leg sleeve with graduated compression and strategically placed adhesive stripes, aiming to improve training effectiveness by restricting bending movement in the leg.

Design/methodology/approach

Knitted fabric and polymer adhesive film were chosen for compression garment development. The design of adhesive stripes was based on Kinesio taping method. Pattern design and 3D visualization was performed using Modaris 3D (CAD Lectra). The compression values were determined by the Laplace equation. The compression full leg sleeve with and without the adhesive stripes were fitted on the virtual mannequin in the squat position in order to determine the influence of adhesive stripes for tensile load in longitudinal direction.

Findings

The compression values in a virtual garment varied from 23.17 ± 1.94 mmHg in the ankle girth to 13.41 ± 1.50 mmHg in the thigh girth. The difference did not exceed 3 mmHg compared to the planned pressure values. The obtained result showed that purposefully placed adhesive stripes significantly increased the tensile force in the longitudinal direction of the garment in a squat position, so it may improve training effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

3D virtual fitting represents the fit on a solid body form, which may affect the accuracy of compression garment simulation, as the human body is not rigid.

Originality/value

The application of 3D virtual fitting technology in creating customized and functional garments demonstrates its unique contribution to garment prototyping and product development.