bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of a Proprietary Near-Infrared Laser to Enhance Wound Healing: A Preliminary Pre-Clinical and Clinical Study
Authors: Glass Graeme E , Mérai András , Molnár Szabolcs , Clayton Paul
Published: February 2025

Background

Non-thermal light energy has been used to enhance wound healing. This is known as photobiomodulation (PBM). While preclinical evidence is largely based on laser light, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) form the mainstay of clinical studies owing to the lack of available lasers for non-clinical use. However, it is speculated the two technologies exhibit dissimilar biological responses.

Objectives

The influence of a new, commercially available near-infrared laser device on the gene expression profile of human skin relative to an equivalent, near-infrared LED device was evaluated. Additionally, the wound healing potential of the device was examined in practice.

Methods

Defatted human skin was exposed to the laser (3), LED (3) or negative control (3) for 5 days. On day 6, skin samples were biopsied for RNA extraction and gene expression assays run for 107 genes of interest. Twenty patients with chronic wounds were randomized to receive standard wound care ± laser therapy 3 times weekly for 4 weeks and wounds were analyzed for healing.

Results

The laser altered expression of 45 genes. Highly upregulated genes (>5-fold change) included those implicated in wound healing and anti-ageing while highly downregulated genes included those implicated in inflammation and extracellular matrix integrity. The LED device altered expression of only one gene relative to negative controls. The laser reduced mean wound area by 78% and healed 4 of 10 wounds completely. By contrast, 8 of 10 of those receiving standard care exhibited no change.

Conclusions

A proprietary near-infrared laser exhibited superior ability to influence gene expression in healthy skin than an equivalent LED device and induced the healing of chronic wounds.
Growing, changing
Authors: Massey R , McWhinnie Sean
Published: February 2025

Robert Massey and Sean McWhinnie explore what the 2023 RAS demographic survey tells us about our scientific community.
Unsustainable careers?
Authors: Mayne Nathan
Published: February 2025

How can academics avoid building unsustainable working patterns?
DNAdesign: feature-aware in silico design of synthetic DNA through mutation
Authors: Wang Yingfei , Li Jinsen , Chiu Tsu-Pei , Gompel Nicolas , Rohs Remo
Published: February 2025

Motivation

DNA sequence and shape readout represent different modes of protein–DNA recognition. Current tools lack the functionality to simultaneously consider alterations in different readout modes caused by sequence mutations. DNAdesign is a web-based tool to compare and design mutations based on both DNA sequence and shape characteristics. Users input a wild-type sequence, select sites to introduce mutations and choose a set of DNA shape parameters for mutation design.

Results

DNAdesign utilizes Deep DNAshape to provide ultra-fast predictions of DNA shape based on extended k-mers and offers multiple encoding methods for nucleotide sequences, including the physicochemical encoding of DNA through their functional groups in the major and minor groove. DNAdesign provides all mutation candidates along the sequence and shape dimensions, with interactive visualization comparing each candidate with the wild-type DNA molecule. DNAdesign provides an approach to studying gene regulation and applications in synthetic biology, such as the design of synthetic enhancers and transcription factor binding sites.

Availability and implementation

The DNAdesign webserver and documentation are freely accessible at https://dnadesign.usc.edu.
Forecasting interannual abundance of Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Wallace Samuel T , Nelson Natalie G , Reisig Dominic D , Huseth Anders S
Published: February 2025

Corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea Boddie (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a common herbivore that causes economic damage to agronomic and specialty crops across North America. The interannual abundance of H. zea is closely linked to climactic variables that influence overwintering survival, as well as within-season host plant availability that drives generational population increases. Although the abiotic and biotic drivers of H. zea populations have been well documented, prior temporal H. zea modeling studies have largely focused on mechanistic/simulation approaches, long term distribution characterization, or degree day-based phenology within the growing season. While these modeling approaches provide insight into H. zea population ecology, growers remain interested in approaches that forecast the interannual magnitude of moth flights which is a key knowledge gap limiting early warning before crops are planted. Our study used trap data from 48 site-by-year combinations distributed across North Carolina between 2008 and 2021 to forecast H. zea abundance in advance of the growing season. To do this, meteorological data from weather stations were combined with crop and soil data to create predictor variables for a random forest H. zea forecasting model. Overall model performance was strong (R2 = 0.92, RMSE = 350) and demonstrates a first step toward development of contemporary model-based forecasting tools that enable proactive approaches in support of integrated pest management plans. Similar methods could be applied at a larger spatial extent by leveraging national gridded climate and crop data paired with trap counts to expand forecasting models throughout the H. zea overwintering range.
The impact of bicuspid valve morphology on the selection of TAVI devices: an in-silico study
Authors: Grossi Benedetta , Luraghi Giulia , Barati Sara , Forte Chiara , Gerosa Luca , Cozzi Ottavia , D’Ascenzo Fabrizio , Condorelli Gianluigi , Migliavacca Francesco , Stefanini Giulio
Published: February 2025

Aims

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) represents a challenge for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Few data are reported about the procedural implications of BAV using different self-expandable devices. The aim of this study is to investigate how BAV and tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) morphologies influence device selection and their impact on the potential development of post-operative conduction disturbances, using a novel in-silico approach.

Methods and Results

Five patients with BAV undergoing TAVI were enrolled. TAVs were virtually modeled within each BAV patient-specific anatomy, resulting in ten virtual patients. Acurate Neo2 and Evolut R implantations were subsequentially simulated across all cases. Post-implantation stresses exerted on both the stent and aortic root were measured, allowing a comparative analysis of the impact of the two valve morphologies.

Comparing stent stresses between BAV and TAV configurations, the stress gap increased by 21.96 ± 5.35 % (p = 0.01) in Acurate Neo2 cases (n = 6) compared to Evolut R cases (n = 4). The analysis of aortic root stresses showed no significant differences between BAV (n = 5) and TAV (n = 5) configurations, with a mean stress difference of 5.1 ± 8.17 % (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our patient-specific model shows that high radial force devices, such as Evolut R, demonstrate consistent expansion regardless of valve morphology, without increasing the risk of post-implantation conduction disturbances, hence resulting more suitable for BAV cases. Incorporating this methodology into pre-operative planning could support clinicians in selecting the most suitable device with a patient-specific approach.
Antithrombotic therapy following transcatheter aortic valve implantation: a Danish nationwide study
Authors: Vistisen Helene Ø , Graversen Peter L , Havers-Borgersen Eva , Strange Jarl E , Østergaard Lauge , Butt Jawad H , Dahl Jordi S , Povlsen Jonas A , Terkelsen Christian Juhl , Freeman Phillip , Nissen Henrik , Køber Lars , de Backer Ole , Fosbøl Emil L
Published: February 2025

Background

Antithrombotic therapy post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been widely debated in the past two decades. Data describing practice patterns of antithrombotic therapy are warranted. This study examined the trends in use of antithrombotic therapy post-TAVI in Denmark.

Methods

Danish patients with aortic stenosis who underwent first-time TAVI from 2008 to 2021 were identified from Danish registries. Patients were categorized according to atrial fibrillation (AF) status and antithrombotic therapy post-TAVI based on prescription fillings. The antithrombotic therapy groups: No antithrombotic therapy, single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT), dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), oral anticoagulant therapy (OAC), and oral anticoagulant therapy with antiplatelet therapy (OAC+). Use of antithrombotic therapy among survivors at 15 months was examined to assess persistence and possible changes in treatment.

Results

This study included 6447 patients undergoing TAVI. Among patients without AF (n = 3975), most patients received SAPT or DAPT. In AF-patients (n = 2472), most patients received OAC or OAC + . During the first 14 years of TAVI, there was a shift in the antithrombotic treatment pattern: For patients without AF, SAPT increased from 15.6% to 69.5% with a concomitant decrease in DAPT from 56.3% to 9.1%. For AF-patients OAC increased from 13.0% to 77.9% and OAC + decreased to 9.1%. Most patients without AF either remained with or shifted to SAPT. AF-patients either remained in or shifted to the OAC group.

Conclusion

Antithrombotic therapy patterns post-TAVI has changed over the first 14 years of TAVI in Denmark. Use of DAPT and OAC + decreased with a concomitant increase in SAPT and OAC.
The materials synthesized in deep eutectic solvents for the detection of food contaminants
Authors: Fan Chen , Zhang Ruixue , Jin Ming
Published: February 2025

The present review delves into the burgeoning field of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and their application in the synthesis of materials for detecting food contaminants. DESs, as a green alternative to conventional solvents, offer a sustainable platform for material synthesis with unique properties such as low toxicity, biodegradability, and excellent solvation capabilities. This review comprehensively discusses the classification, preparation methods, and properties of the materials synthesized in DESs that make them ideal for the development of sensitive and selective analytical methods for food safety. It covers the synthesis of various functional materials in DESs, including noble metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, conductive polymers, hydrogels, carbon-based materials, molecularly imprinted polymers, chalcogenide materials, and metal-organic frameworks. These materials have demonstrated enhanced stability, selectivity, and sensitivity in the detection of food contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins. The review also highlights the challenges and future directions in the application of DES-based materials, emphasizing the need for innovative materials to address the growing demand for rapid, accurate, and cost-effective food contaminant detection methods. By showcasing the latest research and developments, this review underscores the potential of materials synthesized with DESs in revolutionizing food safety monitoring through the detection and monitoring of contaminants in food products.
“Where it’s okay if we die”: exploring older Canadians’ perspective on long-term care through found poetry
Authors: Joanisse Camille , Oostlander Samantha A , Mulvey Michael S , Garcia Linda , Harrisson Sandra , Lagacé Martine , Fraser Sarah , Robitaille Annie , Gillis Margaret , Courtemanche Jill , O’Sullivan Tracey L
Published: February 2025

The thought of living in a nursing home may be disheartening as long-term care establishments have been poorly perceived for decades. The government oversight for quality of care in long-term care homes (LTCH) has resulted in persistent shortcomings when it comes to residents’ well-being and health. The COVID-19 pandemic both exacerbated and unveiled long-standing issues regarding the treatment of older adults. Public perceptions about quality of care provided in LTCH declined during the pandemic. With magnification focused on organizational issues in LTCH, future care receivers expressed firm reluctance to consider residence in such facilities. Understanding of older adults’ perspectives on LTCH is essential for tailoring care practices and policies. In this study we conducted two rounds of interviews with community-dwelling older adults aged 65 or over to better understand their perceptions of LTCH. The narrative data were analyzed using found poetry as an artistic inquiry. Six poems were composed, combining participants’ words into one poetic voice - addressing themes such as death, isolation, ongoing healthcare challenges and private care. Found poetry allowed for salient words to emerge, creating space for nuanced expression of emotions. The combination of multiple voices added to the depth of the poems, which were grounded in the participants’ reality.
Haplotype-resolved genome of Agastache rugosa (Huo Xiang) provides insight into monoterpenoid biosynthesis and gene cluster evolution
Authors: Liu Chanchan , Li DiShuai , Dang Jingjie , Shu Juan , Smit Samuel J , Wu QiNan , Lichman Benjamin R
Published: February 2025

Monoterpenoids are small volatile molecules produced by many plants that have applications in consumer products and healthcare. Plants from the mint family (Lamiaceae) are prodigious producers of monoterpenoids, including a chemotype of Agastache rugosa (Huo Xiang), which produces pulegone and isomenthone. We sequenced, assembled and annotated a haplotype-resolved chromosome-scale genome assembly of A. rugosa with a monoterpene chemotype. This genome assembly revealed that pulegone biosynthesis genes are in a biosynthetic gene cluster, which shares a common origin with the pulegone gene cluster in Schizonepeta tenuifolia. Using phylogenetics and synteny analysis, we describe how the clusters in these two species diverged through inversions and duplications. Using Hi-C analysis, we identified tentative evidence of contact between the pulegone gene cluster and an array of pulegone reductases, with both regions also enriched in retrotransposons. This genome and its analysis add valuable and novel insights to the organization and evolution of terpenoid biosynthesis in Lamiaceae.
S1P Lyase Inhibition Increased Intestinal S1P, Disrupted the Intestinal Barrier and Aggravated DSS-Induced Colitis
Authors: Kaur Prabhdeep , Karuppuchamy Thangaraj , Chilukuri Amruth , Kim Margaret , Urrete Josef , Shen Zining , Saxon Leo , Lundborg Luke R , Mikulski Zbigniew , Jedlicka Paul , Rivera-Nieves Jesús
Published: February 2025

Background

Sphingosine-1-phospate (S1P) receptor agonists (eg, ozanimod) desensitize migrating lymphocytes by irreversibly binding to S1P receptors (S1PR) and triggering their proteasomal degradation. Desensitized lymphocytes cannot sense S1P, therefore, halting lymphocyte recirculation. The S1P lyase (SPL) irreversibly degrades S1P and its inhibition disrupts the S1P gradient. We previously found that systemic SPL inhibitors induce central immunosuppression. Here, we examined whether SPL inhibition may attenuate colitis without systemic immunotoxicity.

Methods

We first analyzed SPL expression and localization in mice using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. SPL inhibitors 4-deoxypyridoxine hydrochloride (DOP) and 2-acetyl-4-(tetrahydroxybutyl) imidazole (THI) were used to inhibit SPL systemically, whereas a conditional intestinal epithelial cell (IEC)-specific SPL-deficient mouse was used to evaluate the effects of IEC-specific SPL inhibition on survival, disease activity, histological severity of dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis, S1P levels, and intestinal permeability.

Results

Sgpl1 mRNA transcripts and protein were ubiquitously expressed in gastrointestinal (GI) tract leukocytes and IEC. Systemic SPL inhibitors did not induce colitis by themselves but depleted CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from blood. However, contrary to its therapeutic effects on ileitis, systemic inhibition reduced survival, accelerated weight loss, worsened histopathological inflammation indices, and tissue damage. We then examined the effects of IEC-specific inhibition on peripheral cell counts and severity of colitis. We found that while it spared peripheral immunity, it similarly hastened colitis. Finally, we examined whether colitis acceleration was due to epithelial barrier compromise after disruption of the S1P gradient. We found that not only systemic but also IEC-specific SPL inhibition increased local S1P levels and led to IEC barrier compromise.

Conclusion

Homeostatic intestinal S1P levels are critical for the regulation of IEC barrier function. Further studies using adaptive immunity-based inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) models are required to assess the translational value of IEC-specific SPL inhibition as a therapeutic target for human IBD.
Gender, democracy, and the legal academy: Afterword to the Foreword by Gráinne de Búrca, Rosalind Dixon, and Marcela Prieto Rudolphy
Authors: Chan Cora
Published: February 2025

This Afterword reflects on the Foreword’s three key contributions—proof of a gender gap in the legal academy, revelation of the problem’s complexity, and an exploration of solutions—from the perspective of a woman scholar specializing in constitutional law in Hong Kong, a former British colony and now a special administrative region of China. While Hong Kong is an international financial center with a strong higher education sector, and its government is explicitly committed to gender equality, the territory is steeped in traditional Chinese values and culture and has undergone a sharp authoritarian turn since the protest movement in 2019. It therefore provides an interesting vantage point from which to assess issues of gender in the legal academy. In particular, this Afterword cites and provides data substantiating the existence of a gender gap in Hong Kong’s legal academy, highlights the intersectional challenges arising from authoritarianism, marketization, and gender as well as other forms of marginalization, and underscores the relationship between gender equality and democratic governance.
Vendor managed inventory under price-and-stock-dependent demand, buyer’s space limitations and preservation investment
Authors: Sen Nabin , Modak Indrani , Giri Bibhas C , Bardhan Sudarshan
Published: February 2025

Accepted by: M. Zied Babai

This study explores a two-level vendor managed inventory model for deteriorating items facing demand dependent on stock and price, while operating under a consignment stock policy. It presents a joint vendor-buyer model that considers varying deterioration rate and preservation technology investment for both parties. The model is developed under the constraint of limited warehouse space at the buyer’s end. The study offers an analytical discourse on the model that aims to determine the optimal values for the selling price, preservation technology investment and shipment time. An assessment is conducted to determine the optimal model for a specific business through a comparative analysis of the capacitated and uncapacitated models. The applicability and robustness of the proposed model are established through the inclusion of numerical illustration and sensitivity analysis. The proposed model is deemed suitable for industries that specializes in clothing, food and pharmaceutical products, provided that all underlying assumptions of the model are adequately met.
A Comparative Analysis of Universal and Sentinel Surveillance Data for COVID-19: Insights from Argentina, Chile, and Mexico (2020–2022)
Authors: Redondo-Bravo Lidia , Zureick Kinda , Voto Carla Jimena , Molina Avendaño Xaviera , Flores-Cisneros Laura , Fowlkes Ashley , Iummato Luciana Eva , Giovacchini Carlos Maria , Olivares Barraza Maria Fernanda , Rodriguez Ferrari Paula , Gutiérrez-Vargas Rosaura , Zaragoza-Jiménez Christian Arturo , García-Rodríguez Gabriel , López-Gatell Hugo , Rodriguez Angel , Couto Paula , Rondy Marc , Vicari Andrea
Published: February 2025

Background

In 2020, countries implemented universal surveillance to detect and monitor SARS-CoV-2 cases. Although crucial for early monitoring efforts, universal surveillance is resource intensive. To understand the implications of transitioning from universal to sentinel surveillance for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility, morbidity and mortality, and disease seriousness, we compared measures of SARS-CoV-2 reported from both surveillance strategies in Argentina, Chile, and Mexico.

Methods

We obtained weekly case counts in Argentina, Chile, and Mexico, in periods when both universal and sentinel surveillance were ongoing. To assess the countries’ surveillance strategies, we measured the proportion of total sites that were included in sentinel surveillance. We compared eight measures of SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility, morbidity and mortality, and disease seriousness between sentinel and universal surveillance and assessed the correlation between the two strategies for the eight measures. Pearson's and Spearman's correlation was classified as very strong (r(s)=0.8–1.0), strong (r(s)=0.60–0.79), moderate (r(s)=0.50–0.59), or poor (r<0.50).

Results

The proportion of total sites included in sentinel surveillance was 5.8% for Argentina, 1.1% for Chile, and 7.6% for Mexico. A total of 21 measures were calculated (8 for Mexico, 8 for Chile, and 5 for Argentina). Of these, 17 showed consistency between the two surveillance strategies, with strong or very strong correlations (r=0.66–0.99): all 8 measures for Mexico, 6 of 8 measures for Chile, and 3 out of 5 measures for Argentina.. Each country had at least one measure reflecting transmissibility and at least one reflecting morbidity and mortality for which the correlation was strong or very strong. Chile and Mexico also had at least one measure of disease seriousness for which the correlation was strong.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the integration of SARS-CoV-2 into national sentinel surveillance can yield information comparable to that provided by nationwide universal surveillance for measures related to SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility, morbidity and mortality, and seriousness of disease.
Annual estimation of seasonal influenza burden in six South American countries: a retrospective analysis of SARInet surveillance data to inform policies
Authors: Descalzo Miguel Angel , de Paula Júnior Francisco José , Mallegas Natalia Vergara , Penayo Elena , Voto Carla , Goñi Natalia , Bruno Alfredo , Ferreira da Almeida Walquiria Aparecida , do Carmo Greice Madeleine Ikeda , Olivares Barraza María Fernanda , Fasce Rodrigo , Pacheco Jorge , Vázquez Cynthia , Von Horoch Marta , Battaglia Silvia , Giovacchini Carlos , Baumeister Elsa , Santoro Adrián , Buyayisqui María Pía , Alegretti Miguel , Naranjo Mónica Patricia Escobar , Jara Jorge , Nogareda Francisco , Rodríguez Angel , Alvis-Zakzuk Nelson Jose , Iuliano A Danielle , Azziz-Baumgartner Eduardo , Tempia Stefano , Leite Juliana , Rondy Marc , Couto Paula
Published: February 2025

Background

We estimate annual viral influenza-associated mild-to-moderate illness, hospitalizations, and deaths in six South American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Uruguay) during the 2015–2019 influenza seasons as a first step in evaluating the full value of influenza vaccination in the subregion.

Methods

We applied a multiplier methodology using monthly hospital discharge and vital statistics death records, influenza surveillance data, and population projections to estimate mild-to-moderate influenza-associated illness, hospitalizations, and deaths. We estimated the uncertainty bounds based on the 2.5th and 97.5th of the Monte Carlo simulated distributions for the number of cases and obtained the ranges from the minimum value of the 2.5th percentile and the maximum value of the 97.5th percentile.

Results

In selected countries with a total population of 307 million people, the yearly influenza-associated burden of disease ranged between 51 and 78 million mild-to-moderate influenza illnesses, between 323,379 and 490,049 hospitalizations, and between 22,662 and 46,971 deaths during the 2015–2019 influenza seasons.

Conclusions

Each year, influenza is associated with millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and tens of thousands of deaths in six South American countries, affecting a significant portion of the population. Such findings can be used to estimate the number of illnesses averted through vaccination programs and the cost-benefit of influenza vaccines.
Influenza vaccine averted illnesses in Chile, Guyana, and Paraguay during 2013–2018: a standardized approach to assess value of vaccination
Authors: Jara Jorge H , Loayza Sergio , Nogareda Francisco , Couto Paula , Descalzo Miguel Angel , Chard Anna N , Olivares Maria , Vergara Natalia , Fasce Rodrigo , Von Horoch Martha , Battaglia Silvia , Penayo Elena , Dominguez Chavely Montserrat , Vazquez Cynthia , Escalada Rainier , Woolford Janice , Michel Fabiana , Chacón Rafael , Fowlkes Ashley , Castro Laura , Velandia-Gonzalez Martha , Rondy Marc , Azziz-Baumgartner Eduardo , Tempia Stefano , Salas Daniel
Published: February 2025

Background

To better establish the value of vaccination against influenza viruses, we estimated vaccine-averted influenza illnesses among young children and older adults in Chile, Guyana, and Paraguay.

Methods

We gathered country- and target population-specific data on monthly influenza hospitalizations, vaccine coverage, and vaccine effectiveness from surveillance records and immunization registries during 2013-2018. We applied a static compartmental model to estimate differences in the number influenza-associated respiratory disease events (symptomatic non-hospitalized illnesses, medically attended illnesses, hospitalizations) in the presence and absence of influenza vaccination programs.

Results

Between 2013 and 2018, vaccinating 68% of children aged 6–23 months in Chile averted an annual mean of 14,617 non-hospitalized, 9,426 medically attended, and 328 hospitalized influenza illnesses; vaccinating 28% of children aged 6–23 months in Paraguay averted 1,115 non-hospitalized, 719 medically attended, and 25 hospitalized influenza illnesses. Vaccinating 59% of older adults in Chile averted an annual mean of 83,429 non-hospitalized, 37,079 medically attended, and 1,390 hospitalized influenza illnesses; vaccinating 36% of older adults in Paraguay averted an annual mean of 3,932 non-hospitalized, 1,748 medically attended, and 66 hospitalized influenza illnesses. In Guyana, a hypothetical campaign vaccinating 30% of children <5 years could have prevented an annual 1,496 non-hospitalized, 971 medically attended, and 10 hospitalized influenza illnesses. Vaccinating 30% of adults ≥65 years could have prevented 568 non-hospitalized, 257 medically attended, and 10 hospitalized influenza illnesses.

Conclusions

Influenza vaccination averted tens of thousands of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations in Chile and Paraguay; influenza vaccination could have had a proportional benefit in Guyana.
Core cooperative metabolism in low-complexity CO2-fixing anaerobic microbiota
Authors: Zampieri Guido , Santinello Davide , Palù Matteo , Orellana Esteban , Costantini Paola , Favaro Lorenzo , Campanaro Stefano , Treu Laura
Published: February 2025

Biological conversion of carbon dioxide into methane has a crucial role in global carbon cycling and is operated by a specialised set of anaerobic archaea. Although it is known that this conversion is strictly linked with cooperative bacterial activity, such as through syntrophic acetate oxidation, there is also a limited understanding on how this cooperation is regulated and metabolically realised. In this work, we investigate the activity in a microbial community evolved to efficiently convert carbon dioxide into methane and predominantly populated by Methanothermobacter wolfeii. Through multi-omics, biochemical analysis and constraint-based modelling, we identify a potential formate cross-feeding from an uncharacterised Limnochordia species to M. wolfeii, driven by the recently discovered reductive glycine pathway and upregulated when hydrogen and carbon dioxide are limited. The quantitative consistency of this metabolic exchange with experimental data is shown by metagenome-scale metabolic models integrating condition-specific metatranscriptomics, which also indicate a broader three-way interaction involving M. wolfeii, the Limnochordia species, and Sphaerobacter thermophilus. Under limited hydrogen and carbon dioxide, aspartate released by M. wolfeii is fermented by Sphaerobacter thermophilus into acetate, which in turn is convertible into formate by Limnochordia, possibly forming a cooperative loop sustaining hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. These findings expand our knowledge on the modes of carbon dioxide reduction into methane within natural microbial communities and provide an example of cooperative plasticity surrounding this process.
Microbial reaction rate estimation using proteins and proteomes
Authors: McCain J Scott P , Britten Gregory L , Hackett Sean R , Follows Michael J , Li Gene-Wei
Published: February 2025

Microbes transform their environments using diverse enzymatic reactions. However, it remains challenging to measure microbial reaction rates in natural environments. Despite advances in global quantification of enzyme abundances, the individual relationships between enzyme abundances and their reaction rates have not been systematically examined. Using matched proteomic and reaction rate data from microbial cultures, we show that enzyme abundance is often insufficient to predict its corresponding reaction rate. However, we discovered that global proteomic measurements can be used to make accurate rate predictions of individual reaction rates (median R2 = 0.78). Accurate rate predictions required only a small number of proteins and they did not need explicit prior mechanistic knowledge or environmental context. These results indicate that proteomes are encoders of cellular reaction rates, potentially enabling proteomic measurements in situ to estimate the rates of microbially mediated reactions in natural systems.
Most infants with prenatal Osteogenesis Imperfecta diagnosis and poor prognosis survive: experience of a quaternary care OI Center
Authors: Carroll Ricki S , Little Sarah , McGreal Tina , Bonner Shannon , Willis Daria , Franzone Jeanne M , Campbell Jeffery , Chou Margaret , Raymond Megan B , Schelhaas Andrea , Costa Joanna , Jain Mahim
Published: February 2025

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic condition with improperly or inadequately produced Type I collagen. Manifestations include bowing deformities, fractures, hydrocephalus, respiratory insufficiency and feeding difficulty. Moderate or severe OI is often diagnosed prenatally based on ultrasound findings and genetic testing may be labeled as lethal. Here we present 18 infants with moderate to severely presenting OI who received neonatal care at a single center over a 5 year period, 10 of which were delivered at our institution. All 18 infants survived to neonatal discharge, with seven infants requiring respiratory support and nine infants requiring feeding support at discharge. Through Fisher Exact Test, Mann Whitney U Test and backward elimination regression, we do not observe that lethal or possibly lethal diagnoses prenatally were correlated with medically relevant outcomes such as need for respiratory support at discharge or need for feeding support at discharge. 16/18 individuals are alive, with a minority requiring either respiratory or feeding support. With a multidisciplinary team approach to neonatal care, outcomes may be optimized. Infants formerly diagnosed with lethal OI may survive. Given our findings, and lack of correlation of prenatal assessments with survival and other medical outcomes, we recommend all families be given the option to pursue medical interventions.
The European earwig Forficula auricularia (Dermaptera: Forficulidae) in California citrus: a sampling method, population surveys, and description of earwig movement into the tree canopy
Authors: Rosenheim Jay A , Cluff Emma , Morrow Kelley
Published: February 2025

The European earwig F. auricularia L. is an omnivore that has only recently been identified as a direct, fruit-feeding pest of citrus. Here, we start to build the basic tools needed for integrated pest management for this species. We introduce a time-efficient sampling method based on small wooden boards placed on the ground, and we use them in a 2-yr survey of 93 commercial citrus blocks in California’s San Joaquin Valley. Insecticides were not applied targeting F. auricularia in any of these citrus blocks. We find that F. auricularia populations are very low or undetectable in most blocks, with higher densities occurring only sporadically. To know when control measures should be implemented, we used video-monitoring of citrus tree trunks to characterize the timing of F. auricularia movement from their soil nests into the tree canopy. Movement of earwigs along the tree trunks was observed throughout our sampling period (22 March to 18 June), suggesting that control measures (sticky bands placed on trunks, or insecticides applied to trunks and surrounding soil surface) should be applied early, well before petal fall when fruit are susceptible to F. auricularia herbivory. Sticky barriers effectively reduced the vertical movement of 2 crawling arthropods, F. auricularia and the Fuller rose beetle Napactus godmanni, along citrus trunks. We failed to find any relationship between estimated F. auricularia densities and damage to maturing or harvested fruit. This highlights a set of important and still unresolved questions about the biology of this species, underscoring the need for additional research.
Rethinking the Informal Economy and the Hugo Effect
Authors: Pappadá Francesco , Rogoff Kenneth S
Published: February 2025

This paper offers a new approach to measuring the size of the informal economy based on VAT data for the European Union. Although data intensive, our EVADE measure is simpler and more transparent than existing measures. EVADE also shows more variation across countries of Europe than earlier measures, including higher informality in Greece, Italy and Spain, for example. Moreover, we find considerably higher variation within countries across time; in a cross-country time series regression, controlling for tax rates, we confirm that the informal economy grows significantly in recessions and decreases in booms, which we term the “Hugo effect”.
Wilhelm Bode und die deutsche Holzskulptur des Spätmittelalters
Authors: Smalcerz Joanna
Published: February 2025

Wilhelm Bode gilt als ein wichtiger, wenn nicht sogar der wichtigste Akteur, der zur Entstehung des Interesses an spätmittelalterlicher deutscher Holzskulptur und darauffolgend sowohl zum Aufbau und zur Entwicklung von Privat- und Museumssammlungen der deutschen Skulptur des Spätmittelalters als auch zur Entwicklung des Kunstmarktes für diese im Kaiserreich, vor allem in Berlin, beigetragen hat. Bodes Geschichte der deutschen Plastik (1887) und die von ihm ausgelöste Konkurrenz zwischen den wichtigsten Berliner Sammlern hat wesentlich zur im Laufe des 19. Jahrhunderts stets steigenden Bedeutung der deutschen spätgotischen Holzskulptur auf dem Kunstmarkt und zum wesentlichen Anstieg ihrer Preise im ersten Jahrzehnt des 20. Jahrhunderts beigetragen. Ziel dieses Aufsatzes ist es, Bodes Rolle in diesem Prozess – als Kunsthistoriker, Museumsmann und Kunstberater – zu untersuchen. Dabei wird die für Bode charakteristische Verflechtung von wissenschaftlicher Tätigkeit und der Beteiligung am Kunstmarkt aufgezeigt.
First clinical experiences with the tetravalent live vaccine against dengue (Qdenga ®) in travellers: a multicentric TravelMedVac study in Germany
Authors: Köpke Clara , Rothe Camilla , Zeder Andreas , Boecken Gerhard , Feldt Torsten , Janke Christian , Jordan Sabine , Köhler Carsten , Löbermann Micha , Müller Andreas , Orth Hans Martin , Prüfer-Krämer Luise Marie , Schäfer Johannes , Slesak Günther , Stich August , Bélard Sabine , Thul Nico , Becker Sören L , Schneitler Sophie ,   TravVacNet-Group
Published: February 2025

Background

A study was conducted to assess the safety and tolerability of the tetravalent live-attenuated dengue vaccine Qdenga®, which received marketing approval in Germany in 2022. The study evaluated vaccine-related reactions in a predominantly dengue-naïve population, highlighting the importance of post-marketing surveillance as an essential component of safety evaluation for newly licensed vaccines.

Methods

Following dengue vaccination, participants were recruited for an anonymous online questionnaire through the national ‘Trav VacNet’ network in Germany. The questionnaire focused on post-vaccination reactions up to 18 days after the first and second vaccination, as well as previous travel history and coadministration.

Results

The study included 1176 participants, with a median age of 39 years (IQR 28–56), 53.2% female (n = 625), 46.5% male (n = 547), and 0.3% non-binary participants (n = 4). After the first dose, 51% of the participants reported systemic reactions such as headache (40% (190/474)), weakness (40% (189/474)) and malaise (32% (154/474)), which were most pronounced between days 7–11 post vaccination. After the second dose, localized signs and symptoms such as pain at the injection site (22% (n = 55/250)) were more common. Fever was more common after the first dose (20% (96/474)) vs. 2% (6/250) after the second. Females reported significantly more reactions than males after both vaccinations (1st dose p = 0.0002; 2nd dose p = 0.0003). A total of 334 (28%) co-administrations were reported whereby AEs were reported in 47% (157/333) of participants, with the highest prevalence observed when combined with the Japanese encephalitis vaccine (56.8%, (42/74)). Differences in age groups were observed, with a decrease in reactions in the elderly (≥65 years).

Conclusions

Vaccine-related reactions were frequently reported, predominantly after the first dose in dengue-naïve participants. Coadministration was a common strategy without significantly increasing side effects. The study provides important insights into reactogenicity and may help improve vaccination strategies in dengue-naïve populations.
Selection of resistant coliform bacteria in the intestine of pigs following flock versus individual treatment with neomycin against post-weaning diarrhoae or amoxicillin against umbilical infection
Authors: Kudirkiene Egle , Eriksen Esben Østergaard , Liu Gang , Christensen Anja Ejlersgård , Agerlin Marianne Viuf , Larsen Inge , Weber Nicolai Rosager , Pedersen Ken Steen , Nielsen Jens Peter , Olsen John Elmerdahl
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of avoiding flock treatment on resistance levels in the intestine of pigs. To investigate this, studies, each in two pig herds, quantified resistant coliforms by culture method in pigs treated as flock or as individual animal treatments orally with neomycin against post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) or intramuscularly with amoxicillin to prevent umbilical infection. Individual oral treatment against PWD did not lead to a lower number or proportion of resistant coliforms compared to flock treated pigs in any of the two herds under study, despite reduction of treatment incidences to 32% and 35% of pigs. After intramuscular treatment against umbilical infection, fewer resistant bacteria were seen in individually treated piglets in a herd with low treatment incidence (33%), while no reduction of resistant coliform bacteria compared to flock treatment was observed in the other herd with higher treatment incidence (86%). Thus, individual animal treatment reduced the amount of antimicrobial used, but concurrent reduction in resistant coliform bacteria was not always observed.
A comprehensive photometric and spectroscopic study of B-type stars in the open cluster NGC 6834
Authors: Ruíz Díaz M A , Aidelman Y J , Baume G , Granada A
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on the open cluster NGC 6834. Despite being well-known, its primary parameters show considerable variation. As an intermediate-age cluster (50–80 million years), it is expected to host a prominent population of B-type stars, including numerous Be stars. Fifteen B-type variable stars have already been identified in the vicinity of the cluster, with four confirmed as Be stars through spectroscopic observations. Our spectrophotometric analysis aims to better understand the general and specific properties of NGC 6834, with particular emphasis on its B-type stars. Photometric data were gathered from gri images obtained with the Gemini North telescope, which was completed with several photometric catalogues. Additionally, 109 optical spectra for 89 stars in the cluster’s region were obtained using the GMOS-MOS spectrograph. From the photometric data, we derive the foreground cluster colour excess, E(B − V) = 0.62. Through photometric diagrams, including traditional colour–colour and colour–magnitude diagrams and those incorporating the reddening-free Q parameter, we identify new stars with $\mathrm{H}\alpha$ emission. Spectral classification of 89 stars is achieved, along with estimations of basic physical parameters, and projected rotational velocities for 64 B-type stars. We identify five new Be stars: NGC 6834 3, 9, and 118 as cluster members, and NGC 6834 23 and 121 as non-members. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the structure of NGC 6834 and its B-type star population.
Mouse modeling of familial human SYCE1 c.197-2A>G splice site mutation leads to meiotic recombination failure and non-obstructive azoospermia
Authors: García-Martínez Omar Ignacio , Geisinger Adriana , de los Santos Eliana , Santiñaque Federico F , Folle Gustavo A , Pórfido Jorge Luis , Meikle María Noel , Schlapp Geraldine , Crispo Martina , Benavente Ricardo , Rodríguez-Casuriaga Rosana
Published: February 2025

Infertility affects a considerable number of couples at reproductive age, with an incidence of 10-15%. Approximately 25% of cases are classified as idiopathic infertility. Often, errors during the meiotic stage appear to be related to idiopathic infertility. A crucial component during first meiotic prophase is the synaptonemal complex (SC), which plays a fundamental role in homologous chromosome pairing and meiotic recombination. In many studies with infertile patients, mutations affecting SC-coding genes have been identified. The generation of humanized models has high physiological relevance, helping to clarify the molecular bases of pathology, which in turn is essential for the development of therapeutic procedures. Here we report the generation and characterization of genetically modified mice carrying a mutation equivalent to SYCE1 c.197-2A>G, previously found in male infertile patients, aiming to determine the actual effects of this mutation on reproductive capacity and to study the underlying molecular mechanisms. Homozygous mutants were infertile. SYCE1 protein was not detected and Syce1 transcript presented minimal levels, suggesting transcript degradation underlying the infertility mechanism. Additionally, homozygous mutants showed impaired homologous chromosome synapsis, meiotic arrest before the pachytene stage, and increased apoptosis of meiotic cells. This study validates the variant as pathogenic and causative of infertility, since the observed dramatic phenotype was attributable to this single homozygous point mutation, when compared to WT and heterozygous littermates. Moreover, although this homozygous point mutation has been only found in infertile men thus far, we anticipate that if it were present in women, it would cause infertility as well, as homozygous female mice also exhibited an infertility phenotype.
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis initially presenting as frequent urination mimicking a prostatic abscess: A case report
Authors: Kamada Riko , Hibino Makoto , Higa Hikari , Watanabe Shigehiro , Maeda Kazunari , Tobe Shunichi , Kakutani Takuya , Kondo Tetsuri
Published: February 2025

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) rarely involves the urological system. Herein, we report the case of a 71-year-old man with GPA who presented with frequent urination and a computed tomography detected low-density area in the enlarged prostate, suggesting an abscess. The initial prostate biopsy revealed necrotic tissue consistent with a prostate abscess, with severe destruction ultimately leading to a bladder fistula. However, upon further review of the pathology samples, multinucleated giant cells were identified, raising suspicion for GPA. Further history revealed bloody nasal discharge, and biopsy results from a lung mass also indicated GPA. Based on these findings—along with sinusitis and proteinase-3-anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody positivity—the diagnosis of GPA was made. Our patient was treated with steroid pulse therapy; however, disease progression could not be controlled, and he died suddenly due to haemorrhagic cerebral infarction. Autopsy revealed granulomas in the lungs and spleen, crescentic glomerulonephritis in the kidneys, and haemorrhagic infarction with an embolised fibrin clot in the brain. Urogenital lesions in GPA can be challenging to diagnose due to their nonspecific presentation, and clinicians should consider GPA in patients presenting with unexplained prostatitis and systemic symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment could prevent unnecessary surgeries and improve prognosis.
Ultra-Processed Food Intakes and Health Outcomes in Adults Older Than 60 Years: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shahatah Fay A , Hill Tom R , Fairley Andrea , Watson Anthony W
Published: February 2025

Context

Relationships between ultraprocessed food (UPF) intakes and health have been well described in adults, but evidence of these relationships in older adults is rather limited. Demographic shifts in aging emphasize the importance of understanding the role of diet in maintaining health during later life.

Objective

The aim of this systematic review was to identify health outcomes associated with UPF consumption in those aged ≥60 years.

Data Sources

The Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases were searched from inception until June 2023, using search terms representing UPF and any health outcome. Observational studies restricted to individuals aged ≥60 years using the Nova food classification were included. Articles were screened independently by 2 researchers using PECOS inclusion criteria.

Data Extraction

Two-thirds of the studies in the present review were prospective cohort studies (n = 4) and the rest were cross-sectional (n = 2). The number of participants ranged from 652 to 2713 across the 6 studies. The mean age of participants ranged between 67 and 73 years.

Data Analysis

In the prospective cohort studies, the highest consumption of UPF was associated with incident frailty, incident dyslipidemia, renal function decline, and abdominal obesity. For cross-sectional studies, the highest intake of UPF was associated with negative outcomes similar to young and middle-aged cohorts, with the addition of nutritional frailty and worse cognitive performance.

Conclusions

Currently, the limited understanding of how high UPF intakes could be associated with negative health outcomes for older adults influences the ability to inform policy and practice recommendations. More research is required owing to the very limited number of studies, specifically in older adults.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023442783.