bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Aromatherapy Massage on Cramp Frequency, Pain Intensity, and Quality of Life in Hemodialysis Patients With Muscle Cramps
Authors: Cetin Serife , Tasci Sultan , Kocyigit Ismail , Saz Ali
Published: January 2025

Muscle cramps, which are frequently encountered in hemodialysis patients, affect individuals bio-psycho-socially, limit their activities of daily living, and reduce their quality of life. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of aromatherapy massage applied in 12 sessions over 4 weeks on cramp frequency, pain severity, and quality of life. The study was conducted as a pretest-posttest, randomized controlled, and single-blinded using a quantitative and qualitative research design. The sample consisted of 94 individuals randomized into 3 groups: intervention (n = 30), placebo control (n = 32), and control (n = 32). Received foot and lower leg massage with essential oils for the intervention group and baby oil for the placebo control group. Muscle cramp and pain were measured by visual analog scale (VAS), and quality of life was measured by Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index—Dialysis Version III. Qualitative data were collected with an individual interview form. In both the intervention and placebo control groups, cramp frequency and pain intensity decreased, while quality of life improved (P < .05). Patients’ activities of daily living improved. Aromatherapy massage was more effective in the first weeks and also decreased l-carnitine and analgesic consumption (P < .05). The obtained qualitative data supported the quantitative data. Aromatherapy and classical massage helped reduce patients’ muscle cramps and pain. Patients’ quality of life and activities of daily living improved. Aromatherapy massage was more effective in managing muscle cramps.
Characterization of Radionuclide Resuspension via Aeolian Processes at a Uranium Mill Tailings Site
Authors: Adriatico Vanessa , Palmer Camille
Published: January 2025

A former uranium recovery facility located in northwestern New Mexico currently serves as a uranium mill tailings site undergoing reclamation and decommissioning. High velocity winds are common in the area, causing soil erosion via aeolian processes. Strong winds may carry soil for several kilometers, which is redeposited downwind. This study estimates the potential for impact on remediation efforts caused by downwind contamination from soil-bound 226Ra resuspension. The study was performed by measuring the mass of soil moving onsite to determine horizontal saltating flux over the period of 3 mo. Previous frameworks relating dimensional flux were used to estimate suspension flux from site-massed saltating flux. Using concentrations of soil-bound radionuclides and meteorological data collected onsite, a modified Gaussian plume model estimating downwind deposition of contaminants was constructed. The highest deposition rate calculated, 6.81 × 10−15 Bq cm−2 s−1, suggests approximately 4.3 million years of deposition are required to exceed the criterion for release, a far longer timespan than the expected remediation and release of the site in 2030. Based on the results, estimated impacts of windblown soil contamination were determined to be negligible.
Right Ventricular Injury Definition and Management in Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Dugar Siddharth Pawan , Sato Ryota , Charlton Matthew , Hasegawa Daisuke , Antonini Marta Velia , Nasa Prashant , Yusuff Hakeem , Schultz Marcus J. , Harnegie Mary Pat , Ramanathan Kollengode , Shekar Kiran , Schmidt Matthieu , Zochios Vasileios , Duggal Abhijit ,   on behalf of Protecting the Right Ventricle Network (PRORVnet)
Published: January 2025

Right ventricular injury (RVI) in respiratory failure receiving veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) is associated with significant mortality. A scoping review is necessary to map the current literature and guide future research regarding the definition and management of RVI in patients receiving VV ECMO. We searched for relevant publications on RVI in patients receiving VV ECMO in Medline, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Of 1,868 citations screened, 30 studies reported on RVI (inclusive of right ventricular dilation, right ventricular dysfunction, and right ventricular failure) during VV ECMO. Twenty-three studies reported on the definition of RVI including echocardiographic indices of RV function and dimensions, whereas 13 studies reported on the management of RVI, including veno-pulmonary (VP) ECMO, veno-arterial (VA) ECMO, positive inotropic agents, pulmonary vasodilators, ultra-lung-protective ventilation (Ultra-LPV), and optimization of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). The definitions of RVI in patients receiving VV ECMO used in the literature are heterogeneous. Despite the high incidence of RVI during VV ECMO support and its strong association with mortality, studies investigating therapeutic strategies for RVI are also lacking. To fill the existing knowledge gaps, a consensus on the definition of RVI and research investigating RV-targeted therapies during VV ECMO is urgently warranted.
18F-FAZA, 18F-FDG, and 123I-IMP Imaging Reveal Hypoxia and Metabolism in Acute MOGAD
Authors: Yokoyama Kota , Tsuchiya Junichi , Kuwahara Hiroya , Inaji Motoki , Tateishi Ukihide
Published: January 2025

We report the first case of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody–associated disease (MOGAD) evaluated with hypoxic imaging using 18F-FAZA PET/CT. A healthy woman in her 20s presented to our hospital with seizures, headaches, and vomiting. MRI and CT scans suggested a wide range of differential diagnoses, from neoplastic lesions, such as malignant lymphoma, to inflammatory diseases, such as vasculitis, making her case challenging to diagnose. MOGAD was confirmed by positive myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies, and her condition improved with steroid therapy. The 18F-FAZA PET/CT findings in this case may aid in understanding the pathogenesis of MOGAD.
Cervical Defect Reconstruction Using Preexpanded Neck Flaps Transferred in a Scarf-wrapping Manner
Authors: Dai Xinyue , Zhang Zixuan , Zang Mengqing , Zhu Shan , Li Shanshan , Chen Zixiang , Jin Shengyang , Liu Yuanbo
Published: January 2025

Objective:

Cervical burn scar contractures can be repaired using many modalities, including skin grafts, pedicled and free flaps. Although preexpanded cervical flaps can provide a like-with-like reconstruction, a simple advancement transfer of the flaps often fails to achieve ideal outcomes. The authors aimed to introduce a method using the preexpanded cervical flaps transferred in a scarf-wrapping manner to repair neck defects.

Methods:

The surgery was divided into 2 stages. In the first stage of the surgery, an expander was implanted above the platysma muscle on each side of the neck. After adequate inflation of the expanders, second-stage operations commenced. Following the expander removal, one flap was rotated upward to repair the neck defect, whereas the other flap was rotated downward to repair the neck defect and close the donor site of the first flap. Data on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were also collected.

Results:

Between July 2004 and May 2024, 24 patients underwent neck reconstructions using this method. Four patients had grade I cervical contractures, and 20 had grade II. The mean size of the defects was 15.62×5.75 cm (range: 6×6–18×10 cm). The average dimension of the neck flap was 15.02×7.65 cm (range: 9×6–20×10 cm). All the flaps survived with no perfusion-related complications. The average improvement in the cervico-mental angle was 29.25 degrees (range: 10–45 degrees). Postsurgery follow-up ranged from 4 to 155 months (mean: 22 mo). All patients and their families were satisfied with the outcomes.

Conclusions:

Preexpanded cervical flaps transferred in a scarf-wrapping manner can be used to reconstruct grade I and II cervical scar contractures and provide a like-with-like reconstruction of the neck.
Iron Replacement in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Nonanemic Iron Deficiency
Authors: Estes-Doetsch Holly , Radler Diane Rigassio , Patusco Rachael
Published: January 2025

Poor iron status is a frequent issue among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), regardless of whether anemia is present. However, clear guidelines on iron supplementation in patients with iron deficiency but without anemia are lacking. This review discusses recent trials on the effect of iron replacement therapy on quality of life and laboratory indices in adult patients with IBD and iron deficiency in the absence of anemia. Limited studies suggest that intravenous iron may improve quality of life and is relatively safe, but further research is warranted. Areas for future research and suggestions for current practice are highlighted.
Enhanced Costimulation Blockade With αCD154, αCD2, and αCD28 to Promote Heart Allograft Tolerance in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Chaban Ryan , Ileka Ikechukwu , Kinoshita Kohei , McGrath Gannon , Habibabady Zahra , Ma Madelyn , Diaz Victoria , Maenaka Akihiro , Rosales Ivy , Lederman Seth , Tkachev Victor , Madsen Joren C. , Pierson Richard N.
Published: January 2025

Background.

Long-term renal allograft acceptance has been achieved in macaques using a transient mixed hematopoetic chimerism protocol, but similar regimens have proven unsuccessful in heart allograft recipients unless a kidney transplant was performed simultaneously. Here, we test whether a modified protocol based on targeting CD154, CD2, and CD28 is sufficient to prolong heart allograft acceptance or promote the expansion of regulatory T cells.

Methods.

Eight macaques underwent heterotopic allo–heart transplantation from major histocompatibility complex–mismatched donors. Induction treatment for donor bone marrow transplantation (BMT) was administered after a 4-mo delay period under TNX-1500 monotherapy. The BMT induction regimen comprised 1 (group 1, G1; n = 3) or 2 (group 2, G2; n = 5) doses of total body irradiation, thymic irradiation, and antithymocyte globulin, followed by 2 (G1) or 5 (G2) weekly doses of αCD2 and 5 weekly treatments with αCD28 and TNX-1500.

Results.

During the delay period, 1 G1 graft was rejected and 2 (1 in each group) exhibited moderate rejection on protocol biopsy before BMT. Lymphocyte chimerism was seen in 3 of 5 G2 animals and in 1 of 2 G1 recipients. One G1 graft was rejected despite chimerism, whereas the other recipient succumbed to anti-cytomegalovirus treatment. Two G2 monkeys succumbed due to infection (cytomegalovirus, bacteremia) post-BMT and 3 due to posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disease.

Conclusions.

Intensive costimulation pathway blockade with αCD2, αCD154, and αCD28 promotes lymphocyte chimerism at the cost of high incidence of posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disease and opportunistic infections, preventing assessment of the effectiveness of the regimen to promote alloimmune tolerance.
Measuring trends in extinction risk: a review of two decades of development and application of the Red List Index
Authors: Butchart Stuart H. M. , Akçakaya H. Resit , Berryman Alex J. , Brooks Thomas M. , Burfield Ian J. , Chanson Janice , Dias Maria P. , Donaldson John S. , Hermes Claudia , Hilton-Taylor Craig , Hoffmann Mike , Luedtke Jennifer A. , Martin Rob , McDougall Amy , Neam Kelsey , Polidoro Beth , Raimondo Domitilla , Rodrigues Ana S. L. , Rondinini Carlo , Rutherford Claire , Scott Tom , Simkins Ashley T. , Stuart Simon N. , Vine Jemma
Published: January 2025

The Red List Index (RLI) is an indicator of the average extinction risk of groups of species and reflects trends in this through time. It is calculated from the number of species in each category on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with trends influenced by the number moving between categories when reassessed owing to genuine improvement or deterioration in status. The global RLI is aggregated across multiple taxonomic groups and can be disaggregated to show trends for subsets of species (e.g. migratory species), or driven by particular factors (e.g. international trade). National RLIs have been generated through either repeated assessments of national extinction risk in each country or through disaggregating the global index and weighting each species by the proportion of its range in each country. The RLI has achieved wide policy uptake, including by the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Future priorities include expanding its taxonomic coverage, applying the RLI to the goals and targets of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, incorporating uncertainty in the underlying Red List assessments, integrating into national RLIs the impact of a country on species’ extinction risk abroad, and improving analysis of the factors driving trends.

This article is part of the discussion theme issue ‘Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future’.
Revealing gaps in marine evidence with a natural capital lens
Authors: Fairbrass A. J. , Fradera K. , Shucksmith R. , Greenhill L. , Acott T. , Ekins P.
Published: January 2025

The natural capital concept positions the natural environment as an asset, crucial for the flow of goods and benefits to humanity. There is a growing trend in applying this concept in marine environmental management in the United Kingdom (UK). This study evaluates six varied marine decisions across England, Scotland and Wales. It focuses on the evidence informing these decisions and the extent to which they represent the complete spectrum of marine natural assets and ecosystem services. We identified a reliance on various evidence types, including consultations, data and statistics, maps and literature reviews. Natural assets such as aquatic resources and energy sources were most frequently evidenced. Fishing was the predominant provisioning ecosystem service benefit. There was a notable gap in evidence on marine habitats’ water quality regulation service. Recreation and tourism dominated the cultural ecosystem service evidence, with less focus on indirect uses such as spiritual nature connections. We reveal gaps in the evidence in marine decisions on significant marine ecosystem service benefits. Our study provides additional evidence to an already identified need to fill evidence gaps in marine water regulation and non-use values of the UK’s marine environments.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future’.
Sustainable high-yield farming is essential for bending the curve of biodiversity loss
Authors: Balmford Andrew , Bateman Ian J. , Eyres Alison , Swinfield Tom , Ball Thomas S.
Published: January 2025

Food production does more damage to wild species than any other sector of human activity, yet how best to limit its growing impact is greatly contested. Reviewing progress to date in interventions that encourage less damaging diets or cut food loss and waste, we conclude that both are essential but far from sufficient. In terms of production, field studies from five continents quantifying the population-level impacts of land sharing, land sparing, intermediate and mixed approaches for almost 2000 individually assessed species show that implementing high-yield farming to spare natural habitats consistently outperforms land sharing, particularly for species of highest conservation concern. Sparing also offers considerable potential for mitigating climate change. Delivering land sparing nevertheless raises several important challenges—in particular, identifying and promoting higher yielding farm systems that are less environmentally harmful than current industrial agriculture, and devising mechanisms to limit rebound effects and instead tie yield gains to habitat conservation. Progress will depend on conservationists forging novel collaborations with the agriculture sector. While this may be challenging, we suggest that without it there is no realistic prospect of slowing biodiversity loss.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future’.
Virucidal activity of olanexidine gluconate against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Watanabe Rika , Yoshida Takuma , Nakaminami Hidemasa
Published: January 2025

Antiseptics have been used for infection control against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Ethanol (EtOH) was found to be effective against SARS-CoV-2, while chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) was less effective. Therefore, virucidal activity may differ between different classes of antiseptic agents. In this study, the efficacy of antiseptics against SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated, and effective agents for infection control were identified. The following antiseptics were used in this study: 1.5% olanexidine gluconate (OLG); 80% EtOH; 1% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO); 0.2% benzalkonium chloride (BKC); 1% povidone-iodine (PVP-I); 0.5%, 1% and 1.5% CHG; and 0.5% alkyldiaminoethylglycine hydrochloride (AEG). The virucidal activity was evaluated at 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 min according to EN14476. After 0.5 min of exposure, 1.5% OLG, 80% EtOH, 1% NaClO, 0.2% BKC and 1% PVP-I inactivated SARS-CoV-2 below the detection limit. The virus survived in the presence of 0.5% CHG, 1% CHG or 0.5% AEG for 3 min. The virucidal activity of 1.5% CHG was insufficient after 0.5 min of exposure. The results showed that virucidal activity against SARS-CoV-2 differs depending on the class of antiseptic agents used under clean conditions. Despite belonging to the same class of biguanide antiseptics, OLG was more effective against SARS-CoV-2 than CHG.
Rapid Detection of Aspergillus spp. and Quantitative Simultaneous Analysis of Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1 and G2) in Kenyan Hybrid Maize Cultivars Using FT-IR and LC-ESI-MS/MS Spectro-analysis Techniques
Authors: Gachara Grace Wanjiku , Suleiman Rashid , Kilima Beatrice , Ligan Bernardin , Sobeh Mansour , Lahlali Rachid
Published: January 2025

The present study combined Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis with high resolution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy equipped with an electrospray ionization source (LC-ESI-MS/MS) in the screening and quantification of four naturally occurring aflatoxins (AFs) AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2 in milled hybrid maize cultivars (n = 171) from selected counties in the Rift-Valley region of Kenya. Samples were extracted in a single-step process using acetonitrile/water 80:20 v/v in 0.5% formic acid without further clean-up steps. Aflatoxins were analyzed in both positive and negative ionization modes using the multi-reaction monitoring (MRM) acquisition process that allowed confirmation and quantification of the aflatoxins in a single run. The MRM mode was utilized for quantitative analysis while qualitative analysis was done using the enhanced product ion mode. Aflatoxin presence was detected in the following ranges and frequencies: AFB1 (0-9.36μg/kg), AFB2 (0-6.62μg/kg), AFG1 (0-7.72μg/kg) and AFG2 (0-9.18μg/kg). Additional mycotoxins recovered included the following; sterigmatocystin (0-8.3μg/kg) and deoxynivalenol (0-7.3μg/kg). In overall, low amounts of aflatoxins were recovered from the milled maize samples with an additional low total aflatoxin content above the stipulated regulatory limit of 10μg/kg. Given that slow continued exposure to aflatoxins (especially in low amounts) has been proven to be a leading cause of various forms of cancer, urgent intervention measures and national surveillance programs ought to be introduced to protect consumers from gradual aflatoxin poisoning emanating from the consumption of contaminated Kenyan maize.
Assessing Garmin’s Stress Level Score Against Heart Rate Variability Measurements
Authors: Rosenbach Hadar , Itzkovith Alon , Gidron Yori , Schonberg Tom
Published: January 2025

Daily stressors elicit physiological and mental responses impacting health, cognition, and behavior. Accurately assessing stress responses in natural settings remains challenging despite extensive research, though wrist-worn devices have the potential to address this gap through remote data collection. The Garmin fitness tracker provides a stress score largely based on HRV which must be validated prior to use in research. This study aimed to assess the stress score given by the Garmin Vivosmart 4 against HR and HRV from ECG recordings derived by the Polar H10 chest strap. A pilot study of 29 participants was conducted, followed by power calculations and preregistration of the main study which included 60 participants. Data were collected simultaneously from both devices during a laboratory session of restful and mental-stress-inducing tasks. Garmin’s stress score, mean HR, SD2/SD1, and HF power exhibited significant differences between stress and rest conditions. Moreover, Garmin’s stress score correlated significantly with HR, RMSSD, and SD2/SD1. Our findings suggest that physiological responses to mental stress were influenced by sex and tonic HRV. The study suggests that the GSS is indicative of mental stress, with its accessibility and noninvasive nature promising widespread utilization in various research domains.
Landscape of human protein-coding somatic mutations across tissues and individuals
Authors: Xu Huixin , Bierman Rob , Akey Dayna , Koers Cooper , Comi Troy , McWhite Claire , Akey Joshua M.
Published: January 2025

Although somatic mutations are fundamentally important to human biology, disease, and aging, many outstanding questions remain about their rates, spectrum, and determinants in apparently healthy tissues. Here, we performed high-coverage exome sequencing on 265 samples from 14 GTEx donors sampled for a median of 17.5 tissues per donor (spanning 46 total tissues). Using a novel probabilistic method tailored to the unique structure of our data, we identified 8,470 somatic variants. We leverage our compendium of somatic mutations to quantify the burden of deleterious somatic variants among tissues and individuals, identify molecular features such as chromatin accessibility that exhibit significantly elevated somatic mutation rates, provide novel biological insights into mutational mechanisms, and infer developmental trajectories based on patterns of multi-tissue somatic mosaicism. Our data provides a high-resolution portrait of somatic mutations across genes, tissues, and individuals.
Novel Three-Dimensional Imaging Platform for Digital Facial Vitiligo Area Assessment
Authors: He Tiancheng , Wollach Saar , Goss Sandra L , Loyman Mark , Bastero Rowena , Schlosser Bethanee J , Crouthamel Ming-Chih H , Camp Heidi S , Eckhouse Vardit
Published: January 2025

Background

Vitiligo is a chronic autoinflammatory disorder of the skin due to autoimmune-induced loss of melanocytes in the epidermis that leads to skin depigmentation. Currently, there is no reliable, objective measurement of the depigmented vitiligo area in a clinical trial setting. To assess the extent of facial skin depigmentation in vitiligo patients, subjective scoring methods, e.g., the Facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (F-VASI), are used in clinical trials; however, these assessments have low sensitivity and high variability. Here, we developed the novel digital 3D imaging platform for vitiligo lesion quantification and objectively assess facial vitiligo changes.

Methods

The 3D imaging platform includes a customized computer visualization app with the handheld stereo optical scanning station. A 3D skin morphology-based image computation model is developed to quantitatively measure facial vitiligo area. To analytically validate this platform, we conducted a synthetic 3D imaging study and a clinical validation study in non-segmental vitiligo patients. In these studies, the 3D imaging platform was used to objectively measure the extent of both synthetic images and facial vitiligo lesions in clinic, and the accuracy and reliability were evaluated.

Results

In the synthetic image validation study, 6 synthetic skin models were produced with 4 different synthetic size vitiligo regions and 3 different shades, the average area error is <0.05 cm2for the 6 skin models and <0.04 cm2for the 4 different circles. In the clinical validation study, 25 participants with at least 3 different skin tones (Fitzpatrick scale II-IV) were enrolled. There was high reliability among different scanners and raters, where all intraclass correlation coefficients for intra-scanner reliability, inter-scanner reliability, intra-rater reliability, and inter-rater reliability were > 0.9.

Conclusions

This study presented a novel digital 3D imaging platform for facial vitiligo area assessment. The clinical study showed high reliability in the use of non-segmental vitiligo patients. The 3D imaging platform demonstrated high sensitivity in detecting changes in facial vitiligo area over time. The 3D imaging technology can be further developed in interventional clinical trials as an objective and sensitive endpoint to detect changes in facial vitiligo with treatment.
Fast adaptation of Myosin II activity to confinement sustains neutrophil migration in capillaries
Authors: Deygas Mathieu , Bernard Mathilde , Nivoit Pierre , Barbier Lucie , Wang Li , Maurin Mathieu , Tejerina Emmanuel , Jakuszeit Theresa , Deslys Alexandre , Garcia-Gomez Moira , Baaziz Oumaima , Garbay Serge , Terriac Emmanuel , Attia Rafaele , Duménil Guillaume , Piel Matthieu , Vargas Pablo
Published: January 2025

As the first responders of the immune system, neutrophils rapidly reach inflamed tissues within minutes, navigating the intricate network of blood capillaries. Therefore, their ability to effectively control infections hinges on their capacity to squeeze and migrate through the micrometric tubes that drain the affected area. To understand this process, we investigated neutrophil migration in capillary tubes.In vivo, we observed that neutrophil crawling at the site of infection was largely independent of the size of the capillaries they traversed. Detailedin vitrostudies showed that these cells could dynamically sustain their motility in microenvironments imposing confinement changes. Notably, other leukocytes failed to adapt their migration speed to these confinement levels. Mechanistically, neutrophils dynamically adapted their actomyosin cytoskeleton to confinement within seconds, a process essential to sustain their speed in capillaries of varying diameters. These cytoskeleton changes were reversible and correlated with the degree of confinement. Importantly, we observed cytoskeleton adaptation to confinement in capillariesin vivo. These findings reveal a unique mechanism that enables neutrophils to maintain their speed in blood capillaries, potentially contributing to the efficacy of innate immune reactions.
Long-term homeostasis in microbial consortia via auxotrophic cross-feeding
Authors: Grandel Nicolas E. , Alexander Amanda M. , Peng Xiao , Palamountain Caroline , Alnahhas Razan N. , Hirning Andrew J. , Josić Krešimir , Bennett Matthew R.
Published: January 2025

Synthetic microbial consortia are collections of multiple strains or species of engineered organisms living in a shared ecosystem. Because they can separate metabolic tasks among different strains, synthetic microbial consortia have myriad applications in developing biomaterials, biomanufacturing, and biotherapeutics. However, synthetic consortia often require burdensome control mechanisms to ensure that the members of the community remain at the correct proportions. This is especially true in continuous culture systems in which slight differences in growth rates can lead to extinctions. Here, we present a simple method for controlling consortia proportions using cross-feeding in continuous auxotrophic co-culture. We use mutually auxotrophicE. coliwith different essential gene deletions and regulate the growth rates of members of the consortium via cross-feeding of the missing nutrients in each strain. We demonstrate precise regulation of the co-culture steady-state ratio by exogenous addition of the missing nutrients. We also model the co-culture’s behavior using a system of ordinary differential equations that enable us to predict its response to changes in nutrient concentrations. Our work provides a powerful tool for consortia proportion control with minimal metabolic costs to the constituent strains.
Two independent translocation modes drive neural stem cell dissemination into the human fetal cortex
Authors: Wimmer Ryszard , Lestienne Pauline , Brunet Clarisse , Coquand Laure , Di Cicco Amandine , Chehade Christophe , Artioli Annasara , Cortes Matthieu , Macé Anne-Sophie , Wang Xiuyu , Manneville Jean-Baptiste , Bessière Bettina , Roy Ananya , Forsberg-Nilsson Karin , Ladewig Julia , Guimiot Fabien , Baffet Alexandre D.
Published: January 2025

The strong size increase of the human neocortex is supported both by the amplification and the basal translocation of a neural stem cell population, the basal radial glial cells (or bRG cells). Using live imaging of second trimester human fetal tissue and cortical organoids, we identify two independent translocation modes for bRG cell colonization of the human neocortex. On top of an actomyosin-dependent movement called mitotic somal translocation (MST), we identify a microtubule-dependent motion occurring during interphase, that we call interphasic somal translocation (IST). We show that IST is driven by the LINC complex, through the nuclear envelope recruitment of the dynein motor and of its activator LIS1. Consequently, IST severely altered in LIS1 patient-derived cortical organoids. We also demonstrate that MST occurs during prometaphase and is a mitotic spindle translocation event. MST is controlled by the mitotic cell rounding molecular pathway, via Moesin and Vimentin, driving translocation. We report that 85% of bRG cell translocation is due to IST, for a total movement of 0,67 mm per month of human fetal gestation. Our work identifies how bRG cells colonize the human fetal cortex, and further shows that IST and MST are conserved in bRG-related migrating glioblastoma cells.
Iron-sulfur cluster proteins present the weak spot in plasma-treatedEscherichia coli
Authors: Krewing Marco , Weisgerber Kim Marie , Dirks Tim , Bobkov Ivan , Schubert Britta , Bandow Julia Elisabeth
Published: January 2025

Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasmas have an antiseptic activity beneficial in different medical applications. In a genome-wide screening, hydrogen peroxide and superoxide were identified as key species contributing to the antibacterial effects of plasma while [FeS] cluster proteins emerged as potential cellular targets. We investigated the impact of plasma treatment on [FeS] cluster homeostasis inEscherichia colitreated for 1 min with the effluent of a microscale atmospheric pressure plasma jet (μAPPJ). Mutants defective in [FeS] cluster synthesis and maintenance lacking the SufBC2D scaffold protein complex or desulfurase IscS were hypersensitive to plasma treatment. Monitoring the activity of [FeS] cluster proteins of the tricarboxylic acid cycle (aconitase, fumarase, succinate dehydrogenase) and malate dehydrogenase (no [FeS] clusters), we identified cysteine, iron, superoxide dismutase, and catalase as determinants of plasma sensitivity. Survival rates, enzyme activity, and restoration of enzyme activity after plasma treatment were superior in mutants with elevated cysteine levels and in the wildtype under iron replete conditions. Mutants with elevated hydrogen peroxide and superoxide detoxification capacity over-expressingsodAandkatEshowed full protection from plasma-induced enzyme inactivation and survival rates increased from 34% (controls) to 87%. Our study indicates that metabolic and genetic adaptation of bacteria may result in plasma tolerance and resistance, respectively.
SifA-mediated Remodeling of theSalmonella-Containing Vacuole Prevents Bacterial Dormancy by Promoting Nutrient Accessibility
Authors: Valenzuela Camila , Rodriguez Francisco J. Garcia , Mazza Thomas , Gil Magdalena , Dotsenko Kateryna , Luk Chak Hon , Enninga Jost
Published: January 2025

Salmonellaexploits a range of intracellular niches within host cells, adapting to different microenvironments that support its survival and replication. This niche diversity is mediated by bacterial effectors injected via the two type 3 secretion systems (T3SS).Salmonellaresides either within membrane-boundSalmonellacontaining vacuoles (SCV) or they grow rapidly within the cytosol upon SCV rupture. Recently, we identified a third intracellular subpopulation, dormantSalmonellawithin modified vacuoles in epithelial cells, which can survive for up to 7 daysin vitro. To explore how bacterial effectors influence the balance of these three subpopulations, we constructed a panel of mutants lacking genes encoding key effectors and examined their intracellular behaviors at 6 and 24 hours post-infection (hpi). Deletion of the T3SS-2 effector SifA significantly increased the dormant subpopulation at later infection time points, identifying SifA as the first known effector regulating bacterial dormancy in epithelial cells. SifA-inducedSalmonella-induced filaments (SIFs) characterize the matureSalmonella-containing vacuole (SCV), and we observed that SIFs were needed for intravacuolar growth ofSalmonella. We could show that SIF formation was critical for nutrient acquisition within the SCV; inhibition of SIF formation resulted in a higher proportion of dormant bacteria, akin to the effect of reduced glucose availability during infection. Both bacterial and host glycolysis pathways were required to prevent dormancy, as proper nutrient scavenging through SIF-mediated modification of the SCV is essential for maintaining a replicative, non-dormant state. These results underscore the importance of nutrient access, facilitated by reprogramming host endomembrane trafficking, forSalmonellato avoid dormancy and sustain active replication within its intracellular niche.

Abstract Figure
Multi-omics and biochemical reconstitution reveal CDK7-dependent mechanisms controlling RNA polymerase II function at gene 5’- and 3’-ends
Authors: Luyties Olivia , Sanford Lynn , Rodino Jessica , Nagel Michael , Jones Taylor , Rimel Jenna K. , Ebmeier Christopher C. , Shelby Grace S. , Cozzolino Kira , Brennan Finn , Hartzog Axel , Saucedo Mirzam B. , Watts Lotte P. , Spencer Sabrina , Kugel Jennifer F. , Dowell Robin D. , Taatjes Dylan J.
Published: January 2025

CDK7 regulates RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) initiation, elongation, and termination through incompletely understood mechanisms. Because contaminating kinases precluded CDK7 analysis with nuclear extracts, we completed biochemical assays with purified factors. Reconstitution of RNAPII transcription initiation showed CDK7 inhibition slowed and/or paused RNAPII promoter-proximal transcription, which reduced re-initiation. These CDK7-regulatory functions were Mediator- and TFIID-dependent. Similarly in human cells, CDK7 inhibition reduced transcription by suppressing RNAPII activity at promoters, consistent with reduced initiation and/or re-initiation. Moreover, widespread 3’-end readthrough transcription was observed in CDK7-inhibited cells; mechanistically, this occurred through rapid nuclear depletion of RNAPII elongation and termination factors, including high-confidence CDK7 targets. Collectively, these results define how CDK7 governs RNAPII function at gene 5’-ends and 3’-ends, and reveal that nuclear abundance of elongation and termination factors is kinase-dependent. Because 3’-readthrough transcription is commonly induced during stress, our results further suggest regulated suppression of CDK7 activity may enable this RNAPII transcriptional response.
Human hippocampal ripples predict the alignment of experience to a grid-like schema
Authors: Xiao Zhibing , Wang Xiongfei , Zhang Jinbo , Ou Jianxin , He Li , Qu Yukun , Hu Xiangyu , Behrens Timothy E , Liu Yunzhe
Published: January 2025

Humans create internal cognitive maps that allow us to make inferences beyond direct experience. These maps often rely on hexagonal grid-cell-like neural codes, serving as a schema for two-dimensional (2D) spaces. Yet it remains unclear how new experiences become aligned with this schema, especially in non-spatial contexts. Here, we show that hippocampal ripples - brief bursts of neuronal activity during rest - predict the emergence of grid-like codes in a novel 2D inference task. We recorded intracranial neuronal activity in 42 epilepsy patients as they learned rank relationships among feature objects (for example, objects differing in 'magic' or 'speed'). After learning, these objects were combined to form 'compounds' occupying a 2D conceptual space defined by two feature dimensions. During learning, hippocampal ripple activity increased during pauses between trials, suggesting that ripples integrated newly acquired information offline. Subsequently, ripple activity during post-learning rest predicted the later emergence of grid-like codes in the entorhinal cortex (EC) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a core region of the default mode network (DMN), when participants inferred unseen relationships among the compounds. Critically, coordination during rest between hippocampal ripples and DMN activity in the mPFC predicted participants' ability to infer complex relationships beyond direct memory retrieval. These findings provide the first direct evidence that hippocampal ripples, working with the DMN, align new experiences with a grid-like schema offline, transforming discrete learning events into structured knowledge that supports flexible and adaptive reasoning in human cognition.
Universal new physics latent space
Authors: Hallin Anna , Kasieczka Gregor , Kraml Sabine , Lessa André , Moureaux Louis , von Schwartz Tore , Shih David
Published: January 2025

We develop a machine learning method for mapping data originating from both Standard Model processes and various theories beyond the Standard Model into a unified representation (latent) space while conserving information about the relationship between the underlying theories. We apply our method to three examples of new physics at the LHC of increasing complexity, showing that models can be clustered according to their LHC phenomenology: different models are mapped to distinct regions in latent space, while indistinguishable models are mapped to the same region. This opens interesting new avenues on several fronts, such as model discrimination, selection of representative benchmark scenarios, and identifying gaps in the coverage of model space.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Connecting the circular and drifted Rindler Unruh effects
Authors: Parry Leo J. A. , Louko Jorma
Published: January 2025

In Minkowski spacetime quantum field theory, each stationary motion is associated with an effective, energy-dependent notion of temperature, which generalizes the familiar Unruh temperature of uniform linear acceleration. Motivated by current experimental interest in circular motion, we analyze the effective temperature for drifted Rindler motion, generated by a boost and a spacelike translation (drift), and the way in which drifted Rindler motion can be smoothly (and in fact real analytically) deformed to circular motion through a third type of motion known as parator. For an Unruh-DeWitt detector coupled linearly to a massless scalar field in 2+1 and 3+1 spacetime dimensions, we establish analytic results in the limits of large gap, small gap and large drift speed. For fixed proper acceleration, the drifted Rindler temperature remains bounded in the large gap limit, in contrast to the circular motion temperature, which can be arbitrarily large in this limit. Finally, in 2+1 dimensions, we trace the vanishing of the circular motion temperature in the small gap limit to the weak decay of the Wightman function, and we show that, among all types of stationary motion in all dimensions, this phenomenon is unique to 2+1 dimensions and therein to circular and parator motion.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Quantum dimer models with Rydberg gadgets
Authors: Zeng Zhongda , Giudici Giuliano , Pichler Hannes
Published: January 2025

The Rydberg blockade mechanism is an important ingredient in quantum simulators based on neutral atom arrays. It enables the emergence of a rich variety of quantum phases of matter, such as topological spin liquids. The typically isotropic nature of the blockade effect, however, restricts the range of natively accessible models and quantum states. In this work, we propose a method to systematically overcome this limitation, by developing gadgets, i.e., specific arrangements of atoms, that transform the underlying Rydberg blockade into more general constraints. We apply this technique to realize dimer models on square and triangular geometries. In these setups, we study the role of the quantum fluctuations induced by a coherent drive of the atoms and find signatures of U(1) and Z2 quantum spin liquid states in the respective ground states. Finally, we show that these states can be dynamically prepared with high fidelity, paving the way for the quantum simulation of a broader class of constrained models and topological matter in experiments with Rydberg atom arrays.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Energy’s dark side: tracing the impact of electricity theft on power quality deterioration in emerging markets
Authors: Kumar Jitender , Rani Garima , Rani Vinki
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Electricity theft is a chronic issue that undermines the power quality and reduces the financial stability of power distribution companies. This study aims to empirically investigate the factors affecting electricity theft and its impact on power quality in rural and urban regions of India.

Design/methodology/approach

This research involves two cross-sectional surveys using self-administered questionnaires: Study R comprises 480 rural respondents, while Study U comprises 461 urban respondents to assess the causes of electricity theft. Data analysis was conducted using the statistical package for social science and the partial least squares-structural equation modelling technique.

Findings

The findings revealed that corruption, economic and government factors significantly influence electricity theft, while technology factors insignificantly influence electricity theft in both studies. However, in Study R, social factors had a statistically significant impact, but in Study U, it had an insignificant impact on electricity theft. Furthermore, the findings also reported a substantial link between electricity theft and power quality deterioration.

Practical implications

The study is unique and more generalisable, providing valuable insights to the government to develop a well-planned stringent law to enhance electricity service quality and reduce electricity theft cases that can benefit the entire community. Further, this study shed light on contributing factors of electricity theft to improve power quality that can assist in achieving the (sustainable development goal 7 – reliable, affordable and sustainable energy) mission of the Indian Government.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present study represents the initial study to examine the notion of Indian electricity users regarding power theft and quality deterioration among India’s rural and urban regions. That would provide a base for the government and electricity board to combat power theft and provide a quality power supply. Moreover, this study offers a robust theoretical model with the new latent variable for a current and pertinent topic.
Collateral effect of urban housing dynamics: a case of metropolitan cities in India
Authors: Ghumare Pavan Namdeo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to incorporate a broader set of influencing factors. It is aimed at providing practical insights for policymakers and urban planners to help create equitable and resilient urban areas that improve the quality of life for low-income residents.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a modeling approach that integrates metropolitan open data to quantify housing expenses. This model evaluates housing affordability by incorporating 30 different criteria that impact household affordability, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis. It adopts a multidisciplinary approach, considering economic, social and environmental factors in assessing urban housing dynamics, thereby providing a holistic understanding of the complex factors that influence affordability.

Findings

The research shows that considering multiple factors, including accessibility costs, gives a more accurate measure of housing affordability. Applying the model to Pune reveals the complexity of affordability issues beyond just income and housing costs. The model provides valuable insights for both academic understanding and practical urban housing strategies.

Originality/value

The study’s originality lies in its multidisciplinary approach to provide a more holistic assessment of housing affordability. The research offers a novel method of analyzing housing affordability, which is often overlooked in traditional models. The findings hold value for urban planners and policymakers, providing them with actionable data to support equitable urban development and improved housing conditions for low-income populations.
Factors influencing residential neighbourhood choices of renters in the Wa municipality, Ghana
Authors: Aziabah Samson , Wanaa Donkor , Avogo Florence Abugtane
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this research was to examine the social, economic, physical and environmental factors that uniquely influence the residential neighbourhood choices of renters. An understanding of these factors would help policymakers and town planners in urban planning decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey approach covering four neighbourhoods in the Wa municipality was conducted to ascertain the critical factors that influence tenants’ choice of residential neighbourhood and the relative importance in that decision.

Findings

Out of the 28 indicators, only 7 were critical to determining tenants’ choice of neighbourhood. The indicators that most influence renters choice of neighbourhood are availability of water, availability and reliability of electricity, quiet and peaceful neighbourhood, aesthetic impression of housing, access to schools, commuting costs to work and terrain of the neighbourhood.

Research limitations/implications

This study is confined to the Wa municipality in the Upper West region of Ghana, as such may not fully represent the preferences of renters in choosing residential neighbourhoods in other regions. The research recommends comparative studies across different regions to better understand regional disparities in the choice behaviour of renters.

Practical implications

Understanding the diverse factors that influence residential neighbourhood choices can inform urban planners and policymakers in the effort to create neighbourhoods that cater to the evolving needs and preferences of residents. To this end, they can aim to provide access to potable water, electricity extension, roads, schools and transportation services to make the urban environment more liveable.

Social implications

By creating environments that align with residents’ priorities, municipalities can enhance community satisfaction and cohesion, and contribute vibrant, stable and sustainable urban living.

Originality/value

The study has highlighted the need for important urban infrastructure and services such as availability of water, clean neighbourhoods, health facilities and transport services. It has brought to the fore that extended family pressure influences renters to locate away from relatives. Viewed from the African context where extended family ties are considered to be strong, it suggests that economic realities may be negatively impacting this relationship.