bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermotherapy via aerated steam is an effective alternative for non-chemical management of cryptic infection of strawberry by Colletotrichum acutatum
Authors: Marin Marcus Vinicius , Wang Nan-Yi , Turechek Bill W. , Peres Natalia A.
Published: February 2025

Annual strawberry production in Florida is threatened by anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum acutatum. This disease is often transmitted through quiescently infected transplants from strawberry nurseries. Managing anthracnose has become even more difficult in both nursery and fruit production fields since the rise of strains resistant to QoI fungicides. In this study, thermotherapy was evaluated as a potential alternative to manage the disease by reducing inoculum in plant stock. Initial laboratory assessments demonstrated that the germination of C. acutatum spores was entirely suppressed upon exposure to 44°C for 120 min, 48°C for 10 min, or 52°C for 5 min. Conversely, a minor proportion of C. acutatum spores (less than 10%) sustained viability, even after being subjected to 40°C for 240 min. Heat treatment of strawberry transplants at 44°C for 240 min, with or without a preheating step (37°C for 1 h), via aerated steam, significantly reduced the colonization of petioles by C. acutatum. Early season harvest data from field trials showed that heat-treated plants, with or without a pre-heating phase, had considerably lower fruit disease incidence and higher yield than the nontreated controls. These findings suggest that heat treatment via aerated steam might be a viable means to decrease C. acutatum inoculum in strawberry transplants, thereby reducing anthracnose in fruit-producing areas.
Effects of psychological stress on inflammatory bowel disease via affecting the microbiota–gut–brain axis
Authors: Chen Yuhan , Chen Xiaofen , Lin Suqin , Huang Shengjun , Li Lijuan , Hong Mingzhi , Li Jianzhou , Ma Lili , Ma Juan
Published: February 2025

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an idiopathic intestinal inflammatory condition with chronic and relapsing manifestations and is characterized by a disturbance in the interplay between the intestinal microbiota, the gut, and the brain. The microbiota–gut–brain axis involves interactions among the nervous system, the neuroendocrine system, the gut microbiota, and the host immune system. Increasing published data indicate that psychological stress exacerbates the severity of IBD due to its negative effects on the microbiota–gut–brain axis, including alterations in the stress response of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, the balance between the sympathetic nervous system and vagus nerves, the homeostasis of the intestinal flora and metabolites, and normal intestinal immunity and permeability. Although the current evidence is insufficient, psychotropic agents, psychotherapies, and interventions targeting the microbiota–gut–brain axis show the potential to improve symptoms and quality of life in IBD patients. Therefore, further studies that translate recent findings into therapeutic approaches that improve both physical and psychological well-being are needed.
Sugar-Free but Not Risk-Free? Exploring Artificial Sweeteners and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Huang Lillian , Huhulea Ellen , Aifuwa Eseiwi , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: February 2025

The consumption of artificial sweeteners has significantly increased globally, particularly as a substitute for sugar for the management of conditions such as diabetes and obesity, which are significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Despite their widespread use, the health impacts of artificial sweeteners remain contentious. Research has suggested that certain sweeteners may contribute to systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and disruptions in gut microbiota, potentially altering glucose metabolism and exacerbating metabolic conditions such as diabetes and obesity. However, other studies highlight potential benefits, such as weight control and improved glucose tolerance. Still, the long-term safety of artificial sweeteners, particularly with chronic consumption, remains uncertain. This literature review explores the cardiovascular risks associated with various artificial sweeteners, focusing on the 6 US Food and Drug Administration–approved nonnutritive sweeteners, aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, acesulfame K, cyclamate, and neotame, as well as nutritive sweeteners such as polyols (erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and maltitol). Ongoing research, including in vitro, animal, and clinical studies, aims to clarify the long-term cardiovascular and metabolic implications of artificial sweeteners and assess the safety of their widespread use across diverse populations.
Taurine and Berberine: Nutritional Interventions Targeting Cellular Mechanisms of Aging and Longevity
Authors: Thukral Jatin , Moudgil Pyush , Maheta Darshilkumar , Agrawal Siddharth Pravin , Kaur Harbir , Thukral Nikhil , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: February 2025

Aging is a multifaceted biological process characterized by progressive physiological decline and increased susceptibility to diseases. Central to this process are molecular and cellular changes that contribute to hallmark features of aging, including mitochondrial dysfunction, genomic instability, telomere attrition, and cellular senescence. Emerging research highlights the role of nutrient deficiencies in accelerating aging, bringing dietary supplements such as taurine and berberine into focus. Taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, plays a critical role in cellular protection, osmoregulation, and antioxidant defense, with evidence linking its deficiency to cellular senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, and stem cell exhaustion. Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, exerts antiaging effects by modulating key signaling pathways, including adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/mechanistic target of rapamycin and sirtuin 1, and promoting mitohormesis. This review explores the mechanisms by which taurine and berberine mitigate aging processes, highlighting their effects on cellular metabolism, stress response, and longevity. Animal studies demonstrate their potential to enhance health span and lifespan although human clinical trials remain limited. Future research should focus on elucidating their molecular pathways, evaluating their combined effects with other interventions such as caloric restriction, and optimizing dosage for clinical applications. Taurine and berberine represent promising therapeutic candidates for addressing fundamental aspects of aging and advancing strategies for healthy aging and lifespan extension.
Menopause and mental health
Authors: Horst Karen , Cirino Nicole , Adams Karen E.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

This review discusses mental health changes commonly experienced by individuals during the menopause transition (MT). The pathophysiology of the MT, the chronology and type of mental health symptoms arising from this pathophysiology, and evidence-based options for treating midlife patients are discussed. This review concludes with treatment options to enable clinicians to more effectively counsel, recognize and treat symptoms during the MT.

Recent findings

The MT begins earlier than previously understood with mood and cognitive issues as common initial mental health symptoms significantly impacting quality of life. These symptoms are due to profound changes in the brain’s structure, connectivity, energy metabolism, and inflammation linked to perimenopausal hormone shifts. Hormone therapy, psychiatric medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments all play a role in the management of mental health symptoms arising during the MT. Lack of both obstetrician and gynecologist and mental health clinician awareness can leave patients undertreated and vulnerable to nonevidence-based approaches.

Patients in the MT are at increased risk for mental health issues, both preexisting and new onset. The OB/GYN clinician plays a key role in recognizing and addressing these conditions to improve health outcomes in midlife women.
Deep immune profiling of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with CODEX multiplexed imaging
Authors: Baretti Marina , Shekhar Soumya , Sahai Vaibhav , Shu Daniel , Howe Kathryn , Gunchick Valerie , Assarzadegan Naziheh , Kartalia Emma , Zhu Qingfeng , Hallab Elsa , Sheth-Shah Archit , Kondo Aya , Azad Nilofer S. , Yarchoan Mark
Published: February 2025

Background:

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) may be genomically subclassified by the presence of potentially actionable molecular aberrations, of which pathogenic alterations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)1 and fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)2 are the most frequently observed. The impact of these molecular alterations on the tumor immune microenvironment remains incompletely understood.

Methods:

We performed a high-parameter spatial immune phenotyping of iCCA samples with pathogenic FGFR2 or IDH1 alterations and FGFR2/IDH1 wild-type controls at the single-cell level using CO-Detection by indEXing.

Results:﻿

A total of 24 tumors were examined. Tumors with FGFR2 alterations were characterized by fewer CD8+ T cells and “M2-like” macrophages but higher levels of polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells as compared to FGFR2 wild-type tumors. Spatial relationships between polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells and multiple other cell types in the tumor microenvironment (including tumor cells, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells) were enriched in tumors with FGFR2 alterations. Tumors with IDH1 mutations had a trend toward more fibroblasts and were characterized by a closer proximity of tumor cells to CD4+ T cells, and between macrophages and multiple structural tumor microenvironment components as compared to other subtypes.

Conclusions:

iCCAs with pathogenic FGFR2 fusions/rearrangements and IDH1 mutations have distinct immunophenotypes. Tailoring immunotherapeutic approaches to specific molecular subsets could improve treatment outcomes across the divergent molecularly defined iCCA subtypes.
Pervasive role of pruritus in impaired quality of life in patients with primary biliary cholangitis: Data from the GLIMMER study
Authors: Smith Helen T. , Das Sugato , Fettiplace James , von Maltzahn Robyn , Troke Philip J.F. , McLaughlin Megan M. , Jones David E. , Kremer Andreas E.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Pruritus affects up to 80% of patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and reduces health-related quality of life (HRQoL). GLIMMER (NCT02966834) was a randomized, placebo-controlled phase IIb study of linerixibat in patients with PBC and pruritus. Using patient-reported outcome data from GLIMMER, we characterize the impact of pruritus in PBC.

Methods:

To objectively assess HRQoL impact, EQ-5D-5L data from GLIMMER (0–1 scale; 0 = death, 1 = perfect health) were analyzed post-hoc across pruritus severities. Inter-relationships between pruritus severity (0–10 numerical rating scale [NRS]), depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II, post-hoc), and sleep interference (0–10 NRS) and their impact on HRQoL were explored.

Results:

In patients with PBC (n = 147), severe pruritus was associated with worse HRQoL. EQ-5D-5L scores were lower in those with severe pruritus (≥7–10 NRS) versus mild/moderate pruritus (mean [SD]: 0.49 [0.28] and 0.75 [0.17]/0.76 [0.17], respectively). Among patients with severe pruritus, 31% had severe depression, versus 9/3% with mild/moderate pruritus. Patients with both severe pruritus and depression had a mean EQ-5D-5L score of 0.30. In those with severe pruritus, 54% reported severe sleep interference. Improvements in pruritus were accompanied by stepwise improvements in EQ-5D-5L scores.

Conclusions:

This analysis of patients in the largest investigational trial of cholestatic pruritus to date shows a clear association between pruritus and impaired HRQoL. Patients with severe pruritus had HRQoL comparable to patients with severe Parkinson’s disease. Severe pruritus alongside depression was associated with extremely poor HRQoL, indicating the importance of evaluating itch and managing depression. Sleep interference appears to be a major cofactor for reduced HRQoL. For each 1-point improvement in NRS HRQoL improved, clinicians should offer appropriate and timely intervention.
Reduced short-term survival following liver transplant in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure: Reevaluating OPTN data
Authors: Tanaka Tomohiro , Roberts Emily K. , Platt Jonathan
Published: February 2025

Background:

Prior studies show severe acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) at liver transplantation (LT) negatively impacts short-term, but not long-term, post-LT outcomes. However, not accounting for ACLF’s time-varying effect on the waitlist may underappreciate its dynamic nature. Moreover, excluding those who died or dropped off the waitlist raises concerns about selection bias.

Methods:

This US nationwide retrospective cohort study estimated the effect of severe ACLF (grade 3) (ACLF-3) on post-LT outcomes, including adult, first-time deceased donor LT candidates listed from June 2013 to May 2023. A marginal structural model (MSM) to address selection bias and time-varying exposure (ACLF-3) was applied, with extended Cox proportional hazard models using a Heaviside step function to assess the hazard of death after LT.

Results:

Among 31,267 eligible candidates for LT (baseline cohort), 11.3% (n = 3518) had ACLF-3 at listing; 13.6% (n = 4243) died or dropped out while on the LT waitlist. Of the 27,024 patients who received LT (transplanted cohort), 12.3% (n = 3333) had ACLF-3 at LT. ACLF-3 at LT (but not at waitlisting) was associated with a higher hazard of death, with the hazard ratio of 1.80 (95% CI: 1.09–2.97) within 1 year after LT but not thereafter. This marginal structural model effect size was 9% higher than conventional multivariable Cox proportional hazard models. Sensitivity analyses corroborated these findings.

Conclusions:

Compared to previous studies, ACLF-3 at LT in our marginal structural model was associated with a discernible increase in short-term mortality after transplant, presumably due to our addressing of selection bias, while long-term survival was similar to those without severe ACLF at LT. However, potential vulnerability to posttransplant complications warrants further investigation.
Implementing Strengths-Based, Positive Approaches Within Rheumatology Fellowship Training
Authors: Kumar Bharat , Feng Alick , Thoene Patricia Bruffey , Sigwarth Erica , Cobb Kristina , Swee Melissa , Suneja Manish
Published: February 2025

Objective

Appreciative Inquiry (AIn) is a strengths-based organizational framework to promote engagement and change. It has shown promise in graduate medical education settings, but how, why, and for whom AIn may drive educational outcomes is underexplored. This realist evaluation examines the causal relationships between contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes at a rheumatology fellowship program in a large tertiary care center that implemented a set of AIn-based interventions. We generate recommendations for leaders in rheumatology fellowship programs on the implementation of AIn-based interventions.

Methods

The realist evaluation was conducted in 3 phases. In phase 1, a scoping review informed the initial program theory. In phase 2, realist interviews were conducted to identify and refine causal relationships between contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes, yielding a final program theory. In phase 3, the final program theory was utilized to generate recommendations for implementation.

Results

The final program theory identified 15 contexts, 10 mechanisms, and 10 outcomes along with 43 context-mechanism-outcome configurations. Through analysis of the final program theory, 3 recommendations were generated: (1) programs must first create permission structures for critical self-reflection through strengths-based feedback, (2) programs must consistently and synergistically apply AIn principles at multiple levels, and (3) programs can sustain AIn-based interventions through the deliberate co-design of virtuous cycles.

Conclusions

This realist evaluation has generated a theory on how AIn may be implemented into rheumatology fellowship programs to drive educational outcomes. Because of the intricate causal relationships, leaders are well-advised to tailor AIn-based interventions based on the context of their training programs.
The causal association of Cardiometabolic diseases and Sepsis-related outcomes: A Mendelian randomization and population study
Authors: Qi Mengmeng , Wei Jin , Zhang Meng , Jiao Chucheng , He Chang , Sui Liutao , Ma Shiyin , Mao Zhi , Pan Xudong , Zhu Xiaoyan
Published: February 2025

Objective

The causality between CMD and sepsis has remained largely unknown. To elucidate this, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) and population study.

Methods

Firstly, we used univariable and multivariable MR analyses to investigate causal associations between CMD and sepsis-related outcomes. We obtained Genome-wide association study summary from both the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit and the FinnGen consortium. Subsequently, a two-step mediation MR analysis was performed to explore mediators. Afterward, we conducted an observational study using the MIMIC-IV database, in which multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to examine the relationship between CMD and sepsis-related outcomes.

Results

In the MR study, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (OR = 1.058, 95%CI = 1.017-1.100, p = 0.005), obesity (OR = 1.113, 95%CI = 1.057-1.172, p < 0.001) and heart failure (HF) (OR = 1.178, 95% CI = 1.063-1.305, p = 0.002) were independently causally related to sepsis. Obesity (OR = 1.215, 95% CI = 1.027-1.437, p = 0.023) and HF (OR = 1.494, 95% CI = 1.080-2.065, p = 0.015) also showed independent causal associations with sepsis critical care admission. Mediation MR analysis identified 23 blood metabolites potentially causally linked to sepsis (p < 0.05), yet none mediated the relationship between CMD and sepsis. In the observational study, we found associations between sepsis and several conditions including T2DM, obesity, hypertension, stroke, HF, and hyperlipidemia after adjusting for confounding factors. Moreover, hypertension, stroke, HF, coronary artery disease, and hyperlipidemia were linked to sepsis critical care admission.

Conclusion

This study has, for the first time, revealed indicative evidence of a causal relationship between CMD and sepsis through observational and genetic evidence. Taken together, clinical attention to sepsis may be warranted among patients with CMD.
AKAP1-stabilized TIMP-4 attenuates Ang-II-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in vascular smooth muscle cells by inactivating the NF-κB signaling
Authors: Han Yongxin , Wu Xuejun , Shi Xin , Zhang Guoliang , Wang Xiaohan , Wang Chuanle , Zhou Hua
Published: February 2025

Background

Oxidative stress and inflammation are key factors contributing to the complex pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-4 (TIMP-4) expression is reduced in AAA patients. In this study, we investigated the impact of TIMP-4 on the phenotype alterations induced by angiotensin II (Ang-II) in human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

Methods

The expression profiling of TIMP-4 and A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP1) in AAA samples was analyzed using the GSE7084 and GSE140947 datasets. Levels of TIMP-4 and AKAP1 in Ang-II-exposed VSMCs and AAA tissues and serum samples were detected. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) experiment and mRNA stability analysis were used to examine the interaction between AKAP1 and TIMP-4 mRNA. The impact of the AKAP1/TIMP-4 cascade on Ang-II-induced VSMC phenotype alterations was determined by evaluating cell viability, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation.

Results

TIMP-4 and AKAP1 levels were decreased in Ang-II-exposed VSMCs. Increased TIMP-4 expression protected VSMCs against Ang-II-evoked growth impairment in vitro. Moreover, TIMP-4 upregulation diminished Ang-II-evoked oxidative stress and inflammation in VSMCs. Mechanistically, RNA binding protein (RBP) AKAP1 stabilized TIMP-4 mRNA to elevate TIMP-4 expression. TIMP-4 reduction partially abrogated AKAP1-driven suppression on oxidative stress, inflammation, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP9) expression, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway activation in Ang-II-exposed VSMCs. Additionally, TIMP-4 and AKAP1 levels were downregulated in AAA patients in their AAA tissues and serum samples. TIMP-4 and AKAP1 had good diagnostic values for AAA with high Area under the ROC curve (AUC).

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence for the role of the AKAP1/TIMP-4/NF-κB pathway in Ang-II-induced VSMC inflammation and oxidative stress.
Evaluation of Prognostic Risk Models Based on Age and Comorbidity in Septic Patients: Insights from Machine Learning and Traditional Methods in a Large-Scale, Multicenter, Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Guoxiang , Shang Zhaoming , Ning Ning , Li Juan , Sun Wenwu , Fan Yiwen , Guo Yiran , Ye Jiawei , Zhou Wenzhen , Qian Junwei , Ma Chaoping , Zhang Jiyuan , Jiang Xiaofei , Zhu Changqin , Mao Enqiang , Chen Mingquan , Gao Chengjin
Published: February 2025

Background

Age and comorbidity significantly impact the prognosis of septic patients and inform treatment decisions. To provide clinicians with effective tools for identifying high-risk patients, this study assesses the predictive value of the age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (ACCI) and its simplified version, the quick ACCI (qACCI), for mortality in septic patients.

Methods

This retrospective study included septic patients from four Chinese medical centers. The internal validation cohort comprised patients from Xinhua Hospital, Ruijin Hospital, and Huashan Hospital, while participants from Renji Hospital served as the external validation cohort. Machine learning models identified ACCI's feature importance. Restricted cubic spline regression and subgroup analysis assess the correlation between ACCI and mortality risk. The qACCI, derived from the ACCI components, was also evaluated for predictive reliability.

Results

A total of 3,287 septic patients were included: 2,974 in the internal cohort (mean age 67.96 years; 37.5% male) and 313 in the external cohort (mean age 67.90 years; 48.2% male). Machine learning models identified ACCI as a key predictor of in-hospital mortality. A linear correlation was confirmed between ACCI and risks of in-hospital, 30-day, and ICU mortality. Sensitivity analysis revealed consistent results across subgroups, demonstrating significantly higher mortality risks in the moderate- (HR 2.18, 95% CI 1.77-2.70) and high-ACCI (HR 3.72, 95% CI 2.99-4.65) groups compared to the low-ACCI group (HR 1, Reference). The ACCI achieved an AUC of 0.788 for in-hospital mortality, outperforming the SOFA in gastrointestinal (0.831 vs. 0.794) and central nervous system infections (0.803 vs. 0.739). The qACCI showed moderate predictive performance in both the internal (AUC, 0.734) and external (AUC, 0.758) cohorts.

Conclusions

As composite indicators of age and comorbidity, ACCI and qACCI provide valuable and reliable tools for clinicians to identify high-risk patients early.
Plasma Utilization Exacerbates Renal Cortex Inflammation in a Rodent Model of Hemorrhagic Shock and Resuscitation
Authors: Risinger William B. , Matheson Paul J. , Franklin Marisa E. , Hammond Victoria R. , Lakshmanan Jaganathan , Pushpakumar Sathnur , Li Yan , Volk Emily E. , Harbrecht Brian G. , Smith Jason W.
Published: February 2025

Background and Hypothesis

Resuscitation strategies incorporating fresh frozen plasma have become the standard of care in the management of traumatic hemorrhagic shock. While plasma resuscitation has been shown to augment the circulation and reduce inflammation within the splanchnic and pulmonary circulation, its global effect on the kidney remains unknown. We hypothesized that plasma would improve intra-renal blood flow and reduce parenchymal inflammation when compared to resuscitation with lactated ringer’s.

Methods

Animals were randomized into four groups (n = 8): a) baseline, b) hemorrhagic shock alone, c) lactated ringer’s resuscitation, and d) fresh frozen plasma resuscitation. Multiplex immunoassays were used to evaluate cytokine and chemokine signaling within the renal cortex and immunohistochemistry was used to identify leukocyte infiltration. Doppler ultrasonography was used to evaluate changes in blood flow and maximum kidney diameter during hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation.

Results

While no difference in resistive index (surrogate for blood flow) within the renal artery or parenchymal vessels was observed between resuscitation strategies, plasma resulted in increased transverse kidney diameter. Plasma administration promoted cytokine/chemokine signaling, resulting in increased infiltration of leukocytes within the renal cortex when compared to lactated ringer’s.

Conclusion

Although the clinical benefits of plasma resuscitation mandate its utilization, our current findings highlight the complexities of plasma resuscitation. While the increase in renal diameter may be related to augmentation of the microcirculation, plasma resuscitation did not enhance macro-circulatory blood flow. Furthermore, plasma resuscitation appears to exacerbate inflammation within the renal cortex after hemorrhage. The downstream physiologic implications of plasma-induced inflammation warrant further exploration.
Competition effects regulating the composition of the microRNA pool
Authors: Raak Sofia B. , Hanley Jonathan G. , O'Donnell Cian
Published: February 2025

MicroRNAS (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that can repress mRNA translation to regulate protein synthesis. During their maturation, multiple types of pre-miRNAs compete for a shared pool of the enzyme Dicer. It is unknown how this competition for a shared resource influences the relative expression of mature miRNAs. We study this process in a computational model of pre-miRNA maturation, fitted to
in vitro Drosophila
S2 cell data. We find that those pre-miRNAs that efficiently interact with Dicer outcompete other pre-miRNAs, when Dicer is scarce. To test our model predictions, we re-analysed previously published
ex vivo
mouse striatum data with reduced
Dicer1
expression. We calculated a proxy measure for pre-miRNA affinity to TRBP (a protein that loads pre-miRNAs to Dicer). This measures well-predicted mature miRNA levels in the data, validating our assumptions. We used this as a basis to test the the model’s predictions through further analysis of the data. We found that pre-miRNAs with strong TRBP association are over-represented in competition conditions, consistent with the modelling. Finally using further simulations, we discovered that pre-miRNAs with low maturation rates can affect the mature miRNA pool via competition among pre-miRNAs. Overall, this work presents evidence of pre-miRNA competition regulating the composition of mature miRNAs.
Two new doping-free manufacturing processes for bread-derived carbon electrodes with control over micro- and macro-topological surface features
Authors: Bujdos David , Kuzel Zachary , Wood Adam
Published: February 2025

Pyrolyzed carbon electrodes (PCEs) can provide sustainable alternatives in electric devices, but it is difficult to control their surface geometries during their semi-destructive fabrication procedure. Impressive contributions have been made to the field of PCE fabrication in terms of the nanoscale, functionalization, and separation applications; however, further progress towards an emphasis on a sustainable life cycle is the next step forward. Here, we propose two new methodologies for creating sustainable PCEs: stamping, where a user-designed, 3D printed electrode precursor (EP) imparts a shape on an organic material, and reconstitution, where the same EP acts as a mould as a mixture of agitated organic material and water dries to leave behind a rigid shape. Both methods allow for the reuse of the EP and the upcycling of biologically derived waste products as a pyrolytic input, and they do not require chemical modification. A comparison of the two methodologies is discussed as surface features of PCEs scale by a factor of 0.78 during the reconstitution process and by a factor of 0.68 during the stamping process. These PCEs maintain defined structures on the micro-scale and demonstrate previously unachievable resolution to the naked eye prior to these two novel pathways.
Numerical investigation for hazardous gas cloud form and dissipation behaviour of hydrogen-blended natural gas in a confined space
Authors: Chen Shuangqing , Li Minghao , Dong Hongli , Meng Lan , Guan Bing , Zhou Shun , Wang Shanlong , Niu Chaofan
Published: February 2025

The safety of hydrogen-blended natural gas (HBNG) in a confined space is an issue, especially for ventilation processes. In this study, leakage and ventilation processes of low-pressure HBNG with different hydrogen-blended ratio (HBR) in a confined space are simulated and validated by experiment based on similarity criteria. For the leakage process, the leak direction and HBR do not significantly affect gas accumulation behaviour. The required time for a gas cloud to fill space decreases slightly with HBR rising and they generally show a linear relationship. For the ventilation process, the main influences on the leakage process are the total leakage mass and the ventilation conditions. The required time for hazardous gas cloud dissipation increases with total leakage mass and decreases with HBR. For different ventilation conditions, the ranking of required time to exhaust leaked gas is low > centre > high > mix. Through the analysis of pressure distribution, it is found time difference is produced by different airflow patterns. With the asymmetric layout, outside air rushes into the confined space from the high side and then flows out from the low side carrying the leaked HBNG. These findings inform the design of ventilation for HBNG utilization scenarios like restaurant facing the street.
Diet-induced changes in metabolism influence immune response and viral shedding in Jamaican fruit bats
Authors: Falvo Caylee A. , Crowley Daniel E. , Benson Evelyn , Hall Monica N. , Schwarz Benjamin , Bohrnsen Eric , Ruiz-Aravena Manuel , Hebner Madison , Ma Wenjun , Schountz Tony , Rynda-Apple Agnieszka , Plowright Raina K.
Published: February 2025

Land-use change may drive viral spillover from bats into humans, partly through dietary shifts caused by decreased availability of native foods and increased availability of cultivated foods. We experimentally manipulated diets of Jamaican fruit bats to investigate whether diet influences viral shedding. To reflect dietary changes experienced by wild bats during periods of nutritional stress, Jamaican fruit bats were fed either a standard diet or a putative suboptimal diet, which was deprived of protein (suboptimal-sugar diet) and/or supplemented with fat (suboptimal-fat diet). Upon H18N11 influenza A-virus infection, bats fed on the suboptimal-sugar diet shed the most viral RNA for the longest period, but bats fed the suboptimal-fat diet shed the least viral RNA for the shortest period. Bats on both suboptimal diets ate more food than the standard diet, suggesting nutritional changes may alter foraging behaviour. This study serves as an initial step in understanding whether and how dietary shifts may influence viral dynamics in bats, which alters the risk of spillover to humans.
Moving as a group imposes constraints on the energetic efficiency of movement
Authors: Klarevas-Irby James A. , Nyaguthii Brendah , Farine Damien R.
Published: February 2025

Movement is a key part of life for many species. In solitary animals, the energetic costs of movement can be mitigated through energetically efficient strategies that produce faster, straighter movements. However, little is known about whether moving as part of a collective enhances or limits the ability of individual group members to express such strategies. Drawing on 6 years of population-level, high-resolution (1 Hz) GPS tracking of group-living vulturine guineafowl (
Acryllium vulturinum
), we detected 886 events from 94 tagged individuals where their groups made large, range-shifting displacements in response to changing environmental conditions. We contrasted these movements with data from 94 similarly large displacement events by 19 lone, dispersing individuals. Our results suggest that individuals in groups can significantly reduce their energetic cost of transport when making large displacements (15.3% more efficient relative to their normal daily ranging) by increasing the speed and straightness of their movements. However, even during their most efficient movements, individuals in groups could not achieve or maintain comparable increases in speed to lone individuals, resulting in significantly limited efficiency gains (35.7% less efficient than solitary individuals). Overall, this study provides evidence for a substantial energetic cost arising from collective movement.
Isochrony in titi monkeys duets: social context as a proximate cause of duets’ rhythm and regularity
Authors: De Gregorio Chiara , Antonini Paola , Heymann Eckhard W. , Gamba Marco
Published: February 2025

Music and rhythm are typical features of all human cultures, but their biological origins remain unclear. Recent investigations suggest that rhythmic features of human music are shared with animal vocalizations. Moreover, arousal is known to influence the structure of both human speech and animal sounds. We investigated coppery titi monkeys’ (
Plecturocebus cupreus
) duet rhythms to assess adherence to rhythmic patterns previously observed only in Old World primates and to deepen our understanding of the proximate causes of non-human primate song rhythm. Titis’ songs were remarkably isochronous, but their
tempo
depended on the social context: songs sung during territorial confrontations have a slower pace than during early morning singing. Songs had a faster
tempo
and were less regular when infants were present, suggesting a speed-accuracy trade-off. Finally, we found that pair-mates perform isochronous songs with the same precision, suggesting that isochrony plays a role in boosting pair coordination, as it does in other singing primates. Our investigation sheds light on the ultimate and proximate causes of primates’ isochronous rhythm, to our knowledge confirming its presence for the first time in a New World monkey and highlighting the role of social factors in shaping its timing and regularity in the short term.
The plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium
Azospirillum brasilense
reduces symptoms and aphid population growth on wheat plants infected with barley yellow dwarf virus
Authors: Santos Franciele , Peñaflor Maria Fernanda G. V. , Pulido Hannier , Bampi Daiana , Bento José Mauricio S. , Mescher Mark C. , De Moraes Consuelo M.
Published: February 2025

There is increasing interest in the potential of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in agriculture to improve plant quality and control pests and diseases. Emerging evidence indicates that some PGPR can influence interactions between plants and their pathogens, while less work has explored whether PGPR may also influence interactions between plants and arthropod vectors. We address this issue in a major agricultural pathosystem involving wheat infection by barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), the most economically important aphid-transmitted viral disease of cereal crops. We found that plant association with the PGPR
Azospirillum brasilense
mitigated both viral effects on plant growth and population growth of the BYDV aphid vector,
Rhopalosiphum padi
. Although effects varied across
A. brasilense
strains, PGPR treatments that attenuated virus effects were also associated with reduced induction of salicylic acid in response to infection, suggesting PGPR inoculation may induce systemic resistance against BYDV. These findings suggest that PGPR may have significant capacity for application in the sustainable management of crop growth. However, further investigation of the complex interactions among PGPR, plants, pathogens and their vectors is needed to better understand this potential.
Phylogenomics of the rarest animals: a second species of Micrognathozoa identified by machine learning
Authors: Sato Shoyo , Appeldorff Cecilie , Wangensteen Owen S. , Garcés-Pastor Sandra , Laumer Christopher E. , Herranz María , Giribet Gonzalo , Renault David , Rask Møller Peter , Worsaae Katrine
Published: February 2025

The latest animal phylum to be discovered, Micrognathozoa, constitutes a rare group of limnic meiofauna. These microscopic ‘jaw animals’ are among the smallest metazoans yet possess highly complex jaw structures. The single species of Micrognathozoa,
Limnognathia maerski
Kristensen and Funch, 2000, was first described from Greenland, later reported from a remote Subantarctic island and more recently discovered in the Pyrenees on the European continent. Successful collections of these three known populations facilitated investigations of the intraphylum relationships and species limits within
Limnognathia
for the first time. Through detailed anatomical comparisons, we substantiate the lack of morphological differences between the three geographically disjunct populations. With transcriptomic data from single specimens, we conducted the first intraphylum phylogenetic analyses and extensively tested species hypotheses using standard approaches and novel machine learning methods. Analyses clearly delimited the Subantarctic population, here described as
Limnognathia desmeti
sp. nov., the second species of Micrognathozoa, but did not definitively split the Greenland and Pyrenees populations as separate species. Divergence dating analysis suggests the disjunct distribution of Micrognathozoa is not human mediated but the result of long-distance dispersal raising questions about their dispersal capabilities and potential undiscovered populations.
Assessing Job Satisfaction and Associated Factors Among Female Married Nurses: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Amarasinghe M. G. N. M. , Erandika S. G. R. , Sandamali A. W. G. , Kalhari W. M. , Sriyani K.A. , De Silva D.K.M.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To assess the job satisfaction and personal, work-related, and socio-economic factors influencing the job satisfaction of married female nurses working at a District General Hospital in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka.

Method and analysis

A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized to assess job satisfaction among married female nurses who worked in a District General Hospital in Sri Lanka. 278 nurses were selected using simple random sampling. Data collection was done with a self-report questionnaire that had demographic data and measurement of job satisfaction through the validated Nurse Job Satisfaction Scale (ESET). Descriptive statistics were applied to analyze the data using SPSS software version 26, t-tests, ANOVA, and linear regression. The threshold for significance was set as p<0.05.

Results

The study found overall nurses’ job satisfaction was high (132.07±20.64) with the highest satisfaction in terms of professional recognition (3.9±0.66) and the lowest satisfaction in terms of recognition and remuneration (3.00±0.85). Age (p=0.031), unit of workplace (p=0.001), and educational level (p=0.010) were significantly associated with job satisfaction. However, multiple regression analysis could not find any significant predictors (p=0.190, R² = 0.024), which implies that job satisfaction is caused by many unmeasured variables.

Conclusion

The study identified high overall job satisfaction among nurses, with professional recognition as the highest and remuneration as the lowest. Job satisfaction was associated with several factors including age, work unit, and education level. However, no strong predictors were found, which implies job satisfaction is driven by several unmeasured factors.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

The study used the reliable Nurse Job Satisfaction Scale (ESET) with strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.92).

The questionnaire covered multiple dimensions of job satisfaction, providing a holistic understanding of influencing factors.

The study was conducted in a single hospital, restricting the applicability of findings to other regions or healthcare settings.

Self-reported data may introduce bias due to social desirability or subjective perceptions.
Estimation of the global burden of autosomal recessive rare inborn errors of metabolism
Authors: Mondal Soumyajit , Goswami Kalyan , Dutta Atanu Kumar
Published: February 2025

While many Rare Inborn Errors of Metabolism are treatable conditions their optimal diagnosis and treatment is a challenge for nations with low resources. Moreover, the population prevalence of these conditions is largely unknown. The availability of large genomic datasets brings the opportunity to estimate population carrier frequency of autosomal recessive IEMs. This would help to generate diseases burden statistics for better allocation of resources. In the current work we estimated the gene specific combined minor allele frequency of pathogenic variants from the gnomAD dataset for 235 genes associated with IEM phenotypes in OMIM. As per our estimation almost one third of the Global population is carrier for a pathogenic variant responsible for rare autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism with the highest carrier frequency in the Ashkenazi Jews. Globally per thousand live births approximately five children are born with an ARIEM. European Finnish have the highest burden of nine out of 10,000 live births. With 25 million live births per year India is expected to have at least 8,025 newborns with an ARIEM. Since many of these diseases are treatable early newborn screening holds the key to ensure optimal management of these children.
Exposotypes in Psychotic Disorders
Authors: Yassin Walid , Kromenacker Bryan , Green James B , Tamminga Carol A , del Re Elisabetta C. , Seif Pegah , Xia Cuihua , Alliey-Rodriguez Ney , Gershon Elliot S , Clementz Brett A , Pearlson Godfrey D , Keedy Sarah S , Ivleva Elena I , Hill Scott Kristian , McDowell Jennifer E , Keshavan Matcheri S
Published: February 2025

Psychiatry lags in adopting etiological approaches to diagnosis, prognosis, and outcome prediction compared to the rest of medicine. Etiological factors such as childhood trauma (CHT), substance use (SU), and socioeconomic status (SES) significantly affect psychotic disorder symptoms. This study applied an agnostic clustering approach to identify exposome clusters “Exposotypes (ETs)” and examine their relationship with clinical, cognitive, and functional outcomes. Using data from individuals with psychotic disorders (n=1,350), and controls (n=623), we assessed the relationship between the exposotypes and outcomes. Four exposotypes were identified: ET1 characterized by high CHT and SU; ET2, high CHT; ET3, high SU; ET4, low exposure. Compared to ET4, ET1 demonstrated higher positive and general symptoms, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and mania; ET2 had higher anxiety, depression, and impulsivity; ET3 had better cognitive and functional outcomes with lower negative symptoms. Intracranial volume was largest in ET3, and smallest in ET2. No group differences in schizophrenia polygenic risk scores were found. The age of onset was 5 years earlier in ET1 than in ET4. These findings provide insight into the complex etiological interplay between trauma, and SU, as well as their unique effects on clinical symptoms, cognition, neurobiology, genetic risk, and functioning.
Hydrogen Sulfide modulates Flagellin-Induced Stomatal Immunity
Authors: Scuffi Denise , Pantaleno Rosario , Schiel Paula , Niemeier Jan-Ole , Costa Alex , Schwarzländer Markus , Laxalt Ana M. , García-Mata Carlos
Published: February 2025

Stomata are natural pores through which plants exchange gases with the environment, mainly carbon dioxide and oxygen required for photosynthesis and respiration, as well as water vapor through evapotranspiration. However, they also serve as entry points for microbial pathogens such asPseudomonas syringaepv. tomato(Pst) bacteria. To prevent microbe invasion, guard cells detect pathogens-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), including the bacterial peptide flagellin (flg22), triggering stomatal closure. This study identifies hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and its cytosolic source L-CYSTEINE DESULFHIDRASE 1 (DES1), as key players in stomatal immunity. We demonstrate that H2S and DES1 are involved in flg22- and bacterial-induced responses, including stomatal closure and modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. We have found that knock out mutants inDES1gene exhibits reduced susceptibility toPstspray-inoculation and lower apoplastic and cytosolic H2O2levels in response to flg22. Additionally, H2S independently induces cytosolic H2O2levels in guard cells without requiring RBOHD activity. All together, these findings establish H2S and its source, DES1, as critical components of the stomatal immune response.

One Sentence Summary

H2S and DES1 actively participate in flg22-induced stomatal closure modulating apoplastic and cytosolic ROS production.
Harnessing the immune system to treat bone loss: The immunomodulatory and osteoprotective effects of the microalgaSkeletonema costatum
Authors: Carletti Alessio , Pes Katia , Tarasco Marco , Rosa Joana T. , Poudel Sunil , Pereira Hugo , Louro Bruno , Cancela M. Leonor , Laizé Vincent , Gavaia Paulo J.
Published: February 2025

The emerging field of osteoimmunology provides compelling evidence for the pivotal role of the immune system in the development of bone erosive pathologies such as osteoporosis. However, no immunomodulatory drug has yet been integrated into the therapeutic management of bone loss. Recently, driven by the demand for next-generation treatments for these conditions, natural compounds are gaining renewed attention as promising candidates for drug discovery.

In this study, we explored the anti-osteoclastogenic effects of an emerging extract from the marine microalgaSkeletonema costatum. Using a zebrafish model of bone regeneration, we demonstrated the extract’s ability to inhibit the recruitment of osteoclast progenitors and block their differentiation into mature osteoclastsin vivo. Bulk RNA sequencing of early-stage fin blastemas revealed the downregulation of genes involved in inflammation, T-cell activation, and antigen presentation, suggesting that the extract exerts its effects primarily through immunomodulatory mechanisms. To further assess its therapeutic potential, we tested the extract in a medaka model of RANKL-induced osteoporosis and on a murine macrophage cell line. The extract effectively prevented bone loss in fish and inhibited osteoclastic differentiation in murine macrophagesin vitro.

Collectively, our findings provide mechanistic insights into a novel, therapeutically relevant natural extract, offering proof of concept for its osteoprotective potential through immune system modulation.

Significance

Recent findings in the field of osteoimmunology reveal the potential of targeting immune cells to regulate bone homeostasis. However, this approach has yet to be applied to therapies for bone erosive conditions. This study explores the potential of an immunomodulatory strategy using an emerging natural extract, which prevent osteoclast differentiation by modulating inflammation, T-cell activation, and macrophage fate determination in zebrafish and medaka models of bone regeneration and osteoporosis. The extract also inhibits osteoclastic differentiation in a murine macrophage line, suggesting its translatability to mammalian systems. By focusing on immune pathways, this research provides a proof of concept for developing immunomodulatory treatments for osteoporosis and similar conditions, addressing a critical need in bone health management.