bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological responses of the alien macroalga Rugulopteryx okamurae (Phaeophyceae, Heterokontophyta) to changes in nutrients and temperature
Authors: Bonomi‐Barufi José , Figueroa Félix L. , Vega Julia , Huesa Rubén , Harb Talissa B. , Avilés Antonio , Mercado Jesús M. , Korbee Nathalie
Published: December 2024

The Asian brown macroalga Rugulopteryx okamurae has invaded the oligotrophic areas of Mediterranean coasts since 2015, with drastic impacts on environmental conditions and socioeconomic activities in coastal areas in Europe. Therefore, it is intriguing how this species is able to grow and expand at the observed rates. In this context, the physiological responses of R. okamurae to changing nutrient concentrations and temperature were analyzed. Two experiments were conducted, evaluating six combinations of nitrate and phosphate concentrations and their potential interaction with temperature. Nutrient uptake efficiency (NUE) and rates (NUR), photosynthetic responses, growth rates, and biomass composition were evaluated. Photosynthesis parameters, soluble proteins, and ‐NUR increased with increasing N:P ratio; however, ‐NUR was very similar in all treatments. The species showed high capacity for nitrate assimilation, which was rapidly modulated by its external concentration and temperature (more than 90% of NO3‐NUE after 5 days in treatments with N:P rations of 5, 10, 16, 25, and 40 N to 1 P). Consequently, N‐nutrients were removed from the water by R. okamurae and likely stored inside the cells. This process will allow the alga to maintain high growth rates if thalli are moved to oligotrophic areas, favoring its spreading to many marine environments. Additionally, fucoxanthin was the predominant carotenoid in this species, although its content was lower than in other brown macroalgae species (mean value of 0.51 ± 0.05 mg · g−1 DW). However, since a huge amount of R. okamurae is observed recurrently on beaches, the use of this biomass might be proposed to compensate partially for its impacts.
Key Decision‐Making in Post‐Failed Internal Fixation of Intertrochanteric Fractures Hip Arthroplasty: A Multicenter Retrospective Study on Fracture Healing's Impact on Femoral Component Selection
Authors: Huang Jiexin , Huang Jiagu , Ding Haiqi , Lyu Jianhua , Huang Changyu , Chen Yang , Wang Qijin , Li Hongyan , Wu Baijian , Huang Ying , Yang Minghui , Fang Xinyu , Zhang Wenming
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Following failed internal fixation of intertrochanteric fractures (FIF‐ITF), the decision to use a long‐stem or standard‐stem femoral implant in hip arthroplasty is still debated. This study aimed to explore how the healing status of fractures after FIF‐ITF failure affects the choice of femoral stem and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Our retrospective cohort study reviewed 105 cases of patients with FIF‐ITF who underwent hip arthroplasty at three tertiary Grade A hospitals between December 2012 and December 2022. We compared the clinical outcomes between patients with healed and unhealed fractures, focusing on the selection of femoral stems in relation to proximal medial support and the healing status of the greater trochanter. The primary outcomes measured were functional results, operative time, blood loss, and incidence of complications. A subgroup analysis was conducted to further evaluate the influence of the proximal medial buttress and greater trochanteric healing on femoral stem selection. Statistical analysis included binary and ordinal logistic regression to identify factors influencing the choice of femoral stems. Additionally, a decision tree model was developed to visually represent and explore the relationship between fracture healing status and the selection of femoral components.

Results

The study included 38 patients with healed fractures and 67 patients with unhealed fractures. Patients in the healed group predominantly chose standard stems and experienced better functional outcomes (p < 0.001, p = 0.002). In contrast, the unhealed group preferred long stems, resulting in longer surgical durations and increased blood loss (p = 0.008, p < 0.001). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that nonunion of the proximal femoral medial buttress was an independent risk factor for long stems (p < 0.0001, OR = 10.402).

Conclusion

The selection of femoral prostheses following FIF‐ITF is influenced by the fracture healing status, particularly the presence of proximal femoral medial buttress. The decision tree model suggested that long‐stem prostheses are more appropriate when there is inadequate fracture healing and the proximal femoral medial buttress is absent.
Natural pigments derived from plants and microorganisms: classification, biosynthesis, and applications
Authors: Tang Qian , Li Zhibo , Chen Ningxin , Luo Xiaozhou , Zhao Qiao
Published: December 2024

Pigments, as coloured secondary metabolites, endow the world with a rich palette of colours. They primarily originate from plants and microorganisms and play crucial roles in their survival and adaptation processes. In this article, we categorize pigments based on their chemical structure into flavonoids, carotenoids, pyrroles, quinones, azaphilones, melanins, betalains, flavins, and others. We further meticulously describe the colours, sources, and biosynthetic pathways, including key enzymatic steps and regulatory networks that control pigment production, in both plants and microorganisms. In particular, we highlight the role of transport proteins and transcription factors in fine‐tuning these pathways. Finally, we introduce the use of pigments in practical production and research, aiming to provide new insights and directions for the application of coloured compounds in diverse fields, such as agriculture, industry, and medicine.
Soil health improvements under cover crops are associated with enhanced soil content of cytokinins
Authors: Perera I. , Kisiala A. , Thompson K. A. , Emery R. J. N.
Published: December 2024

Cytokinins (CKs) are phytohormones produced by plants and other soil life. including bacteria, fungi, insects, and earthworms. These organisms can release CKs to the soil, which may have positive implications for soil health and plant growth. However, no studies have examined phytohormones as soil health indicators.

In custom‐designed rhizo‐pots that separated rhizosphere and bulk soils, the cover crops tillage radish and cereal rye were used to manipulate soil health parameters: soil pH, soil organic matter, soil active carbon, soil microbial community diversity, and extracellular enzyme activities involved in C, N and P cycling. Data were compared to impacts of cover crops on CKs that were purified from the complex soil and measured with HPLC‐HRMS/MS.

From soil we detected free base‐CKs (trans‐zeatin (tZ), isopentenyladenine (iP)), riboside‐CKs (RB‐CKs), cis‐zeatin riboside (cZR), isopentenyladenosine (iPR) and four methylthiolated CKs: 2‐methylthio‐zeatin (2MeSZ), 2‐methylthio‐zeatin ribosides (2MeSZR), 2‐methylthio‐isopentenyladenine (2MeSiP), and 2‐methylthio‐isopentenyladenine riboside (2MeSiPR). These CK levels were significantly enhanced in cover cropped soil compared to uncultivated soil, and reflect a positive relationship between soil CK profiles and other soil health parameters – notably, between total CK and active C levels and soil microbial community diversity.

This is the first detailed soil CK analysis and assessment of its potential use as a novel, reliable, short‐term soil health parameter. The increased CK concentrations in cover cropped soils likely reflects the activity levels of soil life (plants, microbes, animals) and provides a rationale to use CKs as tools to evaluate soil health as influenced by agricultural management strategies.
Iron metabolism acts as a bridge between photosynthesis and red coloration of bud galls induced on Nothofagus obliqua (Nothofagaceae)
Authors: Arriola Ígor Abba , Guedes Lubia Maria , Moreira Ana Silvia Franco Pinheiro , Aguilera Narciso , dos Santos Isaias Rosy Mary , Oliveira Denis Coelho de
Published: December 2024

Color and morphology are some of the most intriguing traits of plant galls, whose patterns resemble fruits and flowers. Many hypotheses were proposed to explain the involvement of anthocyanin accumulation with the development of red gall hues, whose mechanisms seem idiosyncratic. Anthocyanins are related to photoprotective strategies in green tissues and metal accumulation in some flowers. Despite that, the combination of such physiological phenomena has been neglected for galls, which are photosynthetic neoplasms genetically similar to reproductive organs. Here, we integrated different perspectives by measuring photosynthetic pigment and anthocyanin concentration combined with fluorescence quenching analysis, antioxidant activity assays, and histochemical elemental mapping in red and green galls induced by Espinosa nothofagi (Hymenoptera) on Nothofagus obliqua (Nothofagaceae). We found no relationship between high anthocyanin concentrations, light exposure, and red coloration in galls as anthocyanin concentrations were higher in the outermost tissues of green galls than in red galls. Red galls presented higher concentrations of total chlorophyll and lower carotenoid concentrations than green galls and leaves, which correlated with their highest photosynthetic activity and iron accumulation. The red color coincides with the accumulation of aluminum and Fe3+ and the lowest antioxidant capacity in the gall outer tissue. The high antioxidant capacity of N. obliqua galls and the Fe2+ and Fe3+ distribution are related to high photosynthesis, Fe‐use efficiency in galls, and the supply of Fe to the inducer diet. Overall, iron metabolism connects the high photosynthesis activity to the red gall color in the presence of low anthocyanin concentrations, like some flowers.
Interactive effects of Orobanche latisquama parasitism and drought stress in Salvia rosmarinus plants growing under Mediterranean field conditions
Authors: Jené Laia , Massó‐Rodríguez Marcel , Munné‐Bosch Sergi
Published: December 2024

Mediterranean‐type ecosystems are recognized as critical hotspots for both biodiversity and climate change. Within these environments, plants often interact with diverse species, including holoparasitic plants, while simultaneously facing increasing episodes of precipitation shortages and rising temperatures. Here, we investigated the impact of Orobanche latisquama Reut. ex Boiss infestation on the Mediterranean shrub Salvia rosmarinus (L.) Spenn (rosemary) across three populations along an altitudinal gradient, focusing on its effects on host tolerance and resilience to severe summer drought in its natural habitat. Results showed no major physiological impact of the parasite on the host during spring but revealed an enhanced photo‐ and antioxidant‐protective response during the summer drought in rosemary plants infested with O. latisquama. Infested plants showed elevated contents of α‐tocopherol and a shift in the ascorbate ratio towards its oxidized state during the summer, particularly in upper and sun‐exposed leaves. This was accompanied by elevated malondialdehyde content, indicating enhanced lipid peroxidation. However, despite the heightened photo‐oxidative stress observed in leaves from infested plants, no damage to photosystem II was observed, indicating a good tolerance of rosemary to the interaction between parasitism and drought. By autumn, all plants displayed similar recovery patterns, and the differences between infested and non‐infested plants disappeared, thus indicating a high resilience to the combination of these biotic and abiotic stresses. Overall, these findings underscore the great adaptive mechanisms S. rosmarinus plants have evolved to endure severe summer drought, even when challenged by holoparasitic plant infestation, and provide new insights into plant‐parasite interactions in Mediterranean‐type ecosystems.
A New Perspective on Pig Genetics and Breeding: microRNA
Authors: Xiang Wei , Yang Fan , Pu Xiufen , Zhao Shuang , Wang Pingqing
Published: December 2024

microRNA (miRNA) is a class of small non‐coding RNA molecules that are widely expressed in organisms and play an important role in the regulation of gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level. In recent years, researchers have begun to explore its effects on the development of domestic animals and have begun to think about its potential role in modern molecular breeding. Increasing evidence shows that miRNA play a central role in the regulation of pig fertility, pork product quality and disease resistance. Understanding the physiological mechanism of miRNA will be able to better guide future breeding work. In this paper, we will review the research progress of the function and mechanism of miRNA in combination with the above economic characteristics of pigs. The reported miRNA and their target genes were sorted out to evaluate their potential role in improving economic traits such as pig fertility, meat quality and disease resistance, to provide a reference for modern pig molecular breeding.
Elucidation of the late steps in the glycan‐dependent ERAD of soluble misfolded glycoproteins
Authors: Schoberer Jennifer , Vavra Ulrike , Shin Yun‐Ji , Grünwald‐Gruber Clemens , Strasser Richard
Published: December 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) utilizes ER‐associated degradation (ERAD), a highly conserved eukaryotic pathway, to eliminate misfolded or unassembled proteins and maintain protein homeostasis in cells. The clearance of misfolded glycoproteins involves several distinct steps, including the recognition of a specific glycan signal, retrotranslocation to the cytosol, and subsequent degradation of the misfolded protein by the ubiquitin proteasome system. Confocal microscopy was used to track the fate of a well‐characterized ERAD substrate via a self‐complementing split fluorescent protein assay. The results demonstrate that a misfolded variant of the STRUBBELIG (SUB) extracellular protein domain (SUBEX‐C57Y) is retrotranslocated to the cytosol when transiently expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana leaf epidermal cells. Retrotranslocation requires a protein domain with a lesion that is exposed in the lumen of the ER, N‐glycan trimming by α‐mannosidases, HRD1‐mediated ubiquitination, and the ATPase function of CDC48. The retrotranslocated SUBEX‐C57Y ERAD substrate undergoes deglycosylation, and proteasomal degradation is blocked by a catalytically inactive cytosolic peptide N‐glycanase. These findings define distinct aspects of ERAD that have been elusive until now and may represent the default pathway for degrading misfolded glycoproteins in plants.
Screening of pregnant women for foetal neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia: A cost–utility analysis
Authors: de Vos Thijs W. , Tersteeg Ilonka , Lopriore Enrico , Oepkes Dick , Porcelijn Leendert , van der Schoot C. Ellen , Verweij E. Joanne T. , Winkelhorst Dian , de Haas Masja , van den Akker‐van Marle M. Elske
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

Foetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) results from maternal platelet‐directed antibodies and can result in severe intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) in foetuses and newborns. Screening for human platelet antigen‐1a (HPA‐1a)‐directed antibodies during pregnancy could allow timely intervention with antenatal treatment and prevent ICH. We assessed the cost effectiveness of HPA‐1a typing and anti‐HPA‐1a‐screening as part of the prenatal screening programme.

Materials and Methods

Different HPA‐1a screening scenarios were tested in a decision analysis model and assessed for diagnostic, treatment, intervention and lifetime costs and prevention effects compared to the current situation without screening in the Netherlands. Model parameters were based on available data, literature and expert opinions. One‐way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were performed.

Results

Adding screening for anti‐HPA‐1a antibodies to the current antenatal screening programme of the Netherlands will lead to an additional cost of €4.7 million per year and a gain of 226 quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) per year, indicating an incremental cost–effectiveness ratio (ICER) of €20,782 per QALY gained. One‐way sensitivity analysis showed that the uncertainty around the incidence of ICH, lifetime costs of disabled children and the probability of having antibody quantitation >3.0 IU/mL at 20 weeks had the highest effect on the ICER.

Conclusion

Antenatal anti‐HPA‐1a screening might be cost effective. To obtain more knowledge and thereby to improve risk stratification, a pilot screening programme is warranted.
The Wound Reporting in Animal and Human Preclinical Studies (WRAHPS) Guidelines
Authors: Ojeh Nkemcho , Vecin Nicole M. , Pastar Irena , Volk Susan W. , Wilgus Traci , Griffiths Sarah , Ramey‐Ward Allison N. , Driver Vickie R. , DiPietro Luisa A. , Gould Lisa J. , Tomic‐Canic Marjana
Published: December 2024

Preclinical studies for wound healing disorders are an essential step in translating discoveries into therapies. Also, they are an integral component of initial safety screening and gaining mechanistic insights using an in vivo approach. Given the complexity of the wound healing process, existing guidelines for animal testing do not capture key information due to the inevitable variability in experimental design. Variations in study interpretation are increased by complexities associated with wound aetiology, wounding procedure, multiple treatment conditions, wound assessment, and analysis, as well as lack of acknowledgement of limitation of the model used. Yet, no standards exist to guide reporting crucial experimental information required to interpret results in translational studies of wound healing. Consistency in reporting allows transparency, comparative, and meta‐analysis studies and avoids repetition and redundancy. Therefore, there is a critical and unmet need to standardise reporting for preclinical wound studies. To aid in reporting experimental conditions, The Wound Reporting in Animal and Human Preclinical Studies (WRAHPS) Guidelines have now been created by the authors working with the Wound Care Collaborative Community (WCCC) GAPS group to provide a checklist and reporting template for the most frequently used preclinical models in support of development for human clinical trials for wound healing disorders. It is anticipated that the WRAHPS Guidelines will standardise comprehensive methods for reporting in scientific manuscripts and the wound healing field overall. This article is not intended to address regulatory requirements but is intended to provide general guidelines on important scientific considerations for such studies.
Experimental Performance Analysis of Solar Air Heater With Innovative Perforated Semi-Conical Ribs
Authors: Shankar Ravi , Kumar Rajeev , Pandey Arun Kumar , Thakur Deep Singh
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the performance of two solar air heater designs, S1-SAH and S2-SAH, through experimental analysis of temperature, energy gain and loss, efficiency, and Thermal-Hydraulic Performance Parameter (THPP) across mass flow rates ranging from 0.013 to 0.061 kg/s in hot climatic conditions of R.E.C Banda. The S2-SAH consistently outperformed the conventional S1-SAH, achieving a maximum energy efficiency of 79.3% at 0.051 kg/s and a peak exergy efficiency of 4.5% at 0.013 kg/s. Additionally, the highest THPP of 2.0 was recorded at 0.051 kg/s. The results highlight the superior performance and enhanced efficiency of the S2-SAH, showcasing the effectiveness of its design for improved heat transfer.
Plankton food web structure and productivity under ocean alkalinity enhancement
Authors: Sánchez Nicolás , Goldenberg Silvan U. , Brüggemann Daniel , Jaspers Cornelia , Taucher Jan , Riebesell Ulf
Published: December 2024

Ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) is a nature-based technology for CO
2
removal and storage, but little is known about its environmental safety. We tested a CO
2
-equilibrated OAE deployment in a close-to-natural community using in situ mesocosms in the oligotrophic subtropical North Atlantic and assessed metazoan zooplankton to inform about food web stability, structure, and production. In addition, a literature review complemented experimental results by summarizing physiological responses of marine animals to decreasing proton concentrations, or increased pH. The food web studied proved resistant, and zooplankton physiologically tolerant, to the OAE tested. We observed short-term effects of OAE on zooplankton reproduction and productivity, which were likely trophically mediated. Yet, these did not affect zooplankton populations or their nutritional value as food for fish. Our study demonstrates an environmentally safe OAE application, but also stresses the risks of more intense OAE options, and the vulnerabilities of other marine ecosystems.
An extragenital cell population contributes to urethra closure during mouse penis development
Authors: Amato Ciro Maurizio , Xu Xin , Yao Humphrey Hung-Chang
Published: December 2024

The penis, the organ that bears reproductive and psychological importance, is susceptible to birth defects such as hypospadias or incomplete closure of urethra along the penis shaft. We discover that proper urethral closure in mouse embryos requires a unique mesenchymal cell population originated from outside of the penis. These “extragenital” cells, marked by a lineage marker
Nr5a1
, migrate from the inguinal region into the embryonic penis and facilitate urethra closure by interacting with adjacent periurethral cells via the epidermal growth factor pathway. Ablation of
Nr5a1
+
cells leads to severe hypospadias and alters cell differentiation in the penis. This discovery highlights the indispensable role of
Nr5a1
+
extragenital cells in urethra closure, shedding light on the biology of penis formation and potential implications for human hypospadias.
Optimal repetitive readout of single solid-state spins determined by Fisher information
Authors: Zhao Zhiyuan , Xu Shaoyi , Shi Qian , Chen Yu , Kong Xi , Yang Zhiping , Wang Mengqi , Ye Xiangyu , Yu Pei , Wang Ya , Xie Tianyu , Shi Fazhan , Du Jiangfeng
Published: December 2024

Quantum systems, including superconducting circuits, trapped ions, quantum dots, solid-state defects, etc., have achieved considerable advancements in readout fidelity. However, the widely used threshold method disregards the importance of temporal characteristics of the signal during continuous measurements, leading to information loss. Here, we applied Fisher information to quantify the potential enhancement by using the temporal information. We proposed an optimal data processing method and derived the condition for equality to the error constrained by Fisher information. Applying this method to the single-shot readout of a

13

C

nuclear spin of nitrogen-vacancy center marks a 33.8 ± 1.2% error reduction compared to the threshold method, improving the fidelity to 99.649(5)%. The versatility of our method is further demonstrated through the single-shot readout of charge states. This work illustrates the advantage of using photon arrival time for improving readout fidelity without upgrading experimental hardware. The method of using Fisher information to analyze readout fidelity also holds promise for broad applicability to other systems.
Size-dependent guest-memory switching of the flexible and robust adsorption characteristics of layered metal-organic frameworks
Authors: Watanabe Satoshi , Hiraide Shotaro , Arima Homare , Fukuta Akiko , Mori Miyuki , Tanaka Hideki , Miyahara Minoru T.
Published: December 2024

Flexible-robust metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which exhibit unique hybrid nature comprising both flexible and rigid framework characteristics, exhibit high potential for hydrocarbon separations. However, no clear guidelines have been established to regulate their hybrid characteristics owing to limited understanding of their adsorption mechanism. This study investigates the effects of the particle size of a flexible-robust MOF on its adsorption and structural transition behaviors. The robust nature originates from the structural transition of a metastable guest-free structure, while its flexible nature arises from another guest-free structure. The type of guest-free structure is predominantly determined by the particle size; particles below the critical size are trapped in the metastable guest-free structure. Notably, the critical size varies with the type of guest molecule to be removed; consequently, the difference in critical size results in guest-memory characteristics, enabling guest-free structure switching. These results underscore the importance of controlling the particle size to fine-tune hybrid adsorption characteristics of flexible-robust MOFs.
Metasurface spectrometers beyond resolution-sensitivity constraints
Authors: Tang Feng , Wu Jingjun , Albrow-Owen Tom , Cui Hanxiao , Chen Fujia , Shi Yaqi , Zou Lan , Chen Jun , Guo Xuhan , Sun Yijun , Luo Jikui , Ju Bingfeng , Huang Jing , Liu Shuangli , Li Bo , Yang Liming , Munro Eric A. , Zheng Wanguo , Joyce Hannah J. , Chen Hongsheng , Che Lufeng , Dong Shurong , Sun Zhipei , Hasan Tawfique , Ye Xin , Yang Yihao , Yang Zongyin
Published: December 2024

Conventional spectrometer designs necessitate a compromise between their resolution and sensitivity, especially as device and detector dimensions are scaled down. Here, we report on a miniaturizable spectrometer platform where light throughput onto the detector is instead enhanced as the resolution is increased. This planar, CMOS-compatible platform is based around metasurface encoders designed to exhibit photonic bound states in the continuum, where operational range can be altered or extended simply through adjusting geometric parameters. This system can enhance photon collection efficiency by up to two orders of magnitude versus conventional designs; we demonstrate this sensitivity advantage through ultralow-intensity fluorescent and astrophotonic spectroscopy. This work represents a step forward for the practical utility of spectrometers, affording a route to integrated, chip-based devices that maintain high resolution and SNR without requiring prohibitively long integration times.
Magnetic kirigami dome metasheet with high deformability and stiffness for adaptive dynamic shape-shifting and multimodal manipulation
Authors: Chi Yinding , Evans Emily E. , Clary Matthew R. , Qi Fangjie , Sun Haoze , Cantú Saarah Niesha , Capodanno Catherine M. , Tracy Joseph B. , Yin Jie
Published: December 2024

Soft shape-shifting materials offer enhanced adaptability in shape-governed properties and functionalities. However, once morphed, they struggle to reprogram their shapes and simultaneously bear loads for fulfilling multifunctionalities. Here, we report a dynamic spatiotemporal shape-shifting kirigami dome metasheet with high deformability and stiffness that responds rapidly to dynamically changing magnetic fields. The magnetic kirigami dome exhibits over twice higher doming height and 1.5 times larger bending curvature, as well as sevenfold enhanced structural stiffness compared to its continuous counterpart without cuts. The metasheet achieves omnidirectional doming and multimodal translational and rotational wave-like shape-shifting, quickly responding to changing magnetic fields within 2 milliseconds. Using the dynamic shape-shifting and adaptive interactions with objects, we demonstrate its applications in voxelated dynamic displays and remote magnetic multimodal directional and rotary manipulation of nonmagnetic objects without grasping. It shows high-load transportation ability of over 40 times its own weight, as well as versatility in handling objects of different materials (liquid and solid), sizes, shapes, and weights.
Sex-dimorphic tumor growth is regulated by tumor microenvironmental and systemic signals
Authors: Wang Xianfeng , Bao Hongcun , Huang Yi-Chun , Barua Anindita , Lai Chun-Ming , Sun Jie , Zhou Youfang , Cong Fei , Gong Shangyu , Chang Chih-Hsuan , Deng Wu-Min
Published: December 2024

Tumor growth and progression involve coordinated regulation by internal, microenvironmental, and systemic signals and often display conspicuous sexual dimorphism. The mechanisms governing the integration and coordination of these signals, along with their sex-based differences, remain largely unknown. Using a
Drosophila
tumor model originating from nonreproductive tissue, we show that female-biased tumor growth involves multifaceted communications among tumor cells, hemocytes, and neuroendocrine insulin-producing cells (IPCs). Notch-active tumor cells recruit hemocytes carrying the tumor necrosis factor–α (TNF-α) homolog Eiger to the tumor microenvironment (TME), activating the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway in tumor cells, instigating the sexually dimorphic up-regulation of cytokine Unpaired 2 (Upd2). Upd2, in turn, exerts a distal influence by modulating the release of a
Drosophila
insulin-like peptide (Dilp2) from IPCs. Dilp2 then activates the insulin signaling in the tumor, thereby fostering sexual-dimorphic tumor growth. Together, these findings reveal a relay mechanism involving the TME and systemic signals that collectively control the sexual dimorphism of tumor growth.
Nitrous oxide is the main product during nitrate reduction by a novel lithoautotrophic iron(II)-oxidizing culture from an organic-rich paddy soil
Authors: Grimm Hanna , Lorenz Jennifer , Straub Daniel , Joshi Prachi , Shuster Jeremiah , Zarfl Christiane , Muehe E. Marie , Kappler Andreas
Published: December 2024

Microbial nitrate reduction coupled to iron(II) oxidation (NRFeOx) occurs in paddy soils due to high levels of dissolved iron(II) and regular application of nitrogen fertilizer. However, to date, there is no lithoautotrophic NRFeOx isolate or enrichment culture available from this soil environment. Thus, resulting impacts on greenhouse gas emissions during nitrate reduction (i.e., nitrous oxide [N
2
O]) and on toxic metalloid (i.e., arsenic) mobility can hardly be investigated. We enriched a lithoautotrophic NRFeOx culture, culture HP (Huilongpu paddy, named after its origin), from a paddy soil (Huilongpu Town, China), which was dominated by
Gallionella
(71%). The culture reduced 0.45 to 0.63 mM nitrate and oxidized 1.76 to 2.31 mM iron(II) within 4 days leading to N
2
O as the main N-product (62%–88% N
2
O-N of total reduced NO
3
−
-N). Nitrite was present as an intermediate at a maximum of 0.16 ± 0.1 mM. Cells were associated with, but mostly not encrusted by, poorly crystalline iron(III) minerals (ferrihydrite). Culture HP performed best below an iron(II) threshold of 2.5–3.5 mM and in a pH range of 6.50–7.05. In the presence of 100 µM arsenite, only 0%–18% of iron(II) was oxidized. Due to low iron(II) oxidation, arsenite was not immobilized. However, the proportion of N
2
O-N of total reduced NO
3
−
-N decreased from 77% to 30%. Our results indicate that lithoautotrophic NRFeOx occurs even in organic-rich paddy soils, resulting in denitrification and subsequent N
2
O emissions. The obtained novel enrichment culture allows us to study the impact of lithoautotrophic NRFeOx on arsenic mobility and N
2
O emissions in paddy soils.

IMPORTANCE

Paddy soils are naturally rich in iron(II) and regularly experience nitrogen inputs due to fertilization. Nitrogen fertilization increases nitrous oxide emissions as it is an intermediate product during nitrate reduction. Microorganisms can live using nitrate and iron(II) as electron acceptor and donor, respectively, but mostly require an organic co-substrate. By contrast, microorganisms that only rely on nitrate, iron(II), and CO
2
could inhabit carbon-limited ecological niches. So far, no isolate or consortium of lithoautotrophic iron(II)-oxidizing, nitrate-reducing microorganisms has been obtained from paddy soil. Here, we describe a lithoautotrophic enrichment culture, dominated by a typical iron(II)-oxidizer (
Gallionella
), that oxidized iron(II) and reduced nitrate to nitrous oxide, negatively impacting greenhouse gas dynamics. High arsenic concentrations were toxic to the culture but decreased the proportion of nitrous oxide of the total reduced nitrate. Our results suggest that autotrophic nitrate reduction coupled with iron(II) oxidation is a relevant, previously overlooked process in paddy soils.
Viral concentration method biases in the detection of viral profiles in wastewater
Authors: Cheshomi Naeema , Alum Absar , Smith Matthew F. , Lim Efrem S. , Conroy-Ben Otakuye , Abbaszadegan Morteza
Published: December 2024

Viral detection methodologies used for wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) studies have a broad range of efficacies. The complex matrix and low viral particle load in wastewater emphasize the importance of the concentration method. This study focused on comparing three commonly used virus concentration methods: polyethylene glycol precipitation (PEG), immuno-magnetic nanoparticles (IMNP), and electronegative membrane filtration (EMF). Influent and effluent wastewater samples were processed by the methods and analyzed by DNA/RNA quantification and sequencing for the detection of human viruses. SARS-COV-2, Astrovirus, and Hepatitis C virus were detected by all the methods in both sample types. PEG precipitation resulted in the detection of 20 types of viruses in influent and 16 types in effluent samples. The corresponding number of virus types detected was 21 and 11 for IMNP, and 16 and 8 for EMF. Certain viruses were unique to only one concentration method. For example, PEG detected three types of viruses in influent and six types in effluent compared to IMNP, which detected seven types in influent and one type in effluent samples. However, the EMF method appeared to be the least effective, detecting three types in influent and none in effluent samples. Rotavirus was detected in influent sample using IMNP method, whereas EMF and PEG methods failed to yield a similar outcome. Consequently, the potential false negative results pose a risk to the credibility of WBE applications. Therefore, implementation of a proper concentration technique is critical to minimize method biases and ensure accurate viral profiling in WBE studies.

IMPORTANCE

In recent years, significant research efforts have been focused on the development of viral detection methodology for wastewater-based epidemiology studies, showing a range of variability in detection efficacies. A proper methodology is essential for an appropriate evaluation of disease prevalence and community health in such studies and necessitates designing a concentration method based on the target pathogenic virus. There remains a need for comparative performance evaluations of methods in the context of detection efficiencies. This study highlights the significant impact of sample matrix, viral structure, and nucleic acid composition on the efficacy of viral concentration methods. Assessing WBE techniques to ensure accurate detection and understanding of viral presence within wastewater samples is critical for revealing viral profiles in municipality wastewater samples.
The quality of SIV-specific fCD8 T cells limits SIV RNA production in Tfh cells during antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Takahama Shokichi , Washizaki Ayaka , Okamura Tomotaka , Kitamura Shingo , Nogimori Takuto , Satou Yorifumi , Yasutomi Yasuhiro , Yoshinaga Tomokazu , Yamamoto Takuya
Published: December 2024

The attack and defense of infected cells and cytotoxic CD8 T cells occur in germinal centers in lymphoid tissue in chronic persistent HIV/SIV infection. Latently infected cells, the therapeutic target of HIV infection, accumulate in follicular helper T (Tfh) cells in lymphoid tissue; the impact of HIV-specific follicular CD8 (fCD8) T cells in lymphoid tissue on the latently infected cells remains unknown. We infected 15 cynomolgus macaques with SIVmac239 and examined the contribution of SIV-Gag-specific fCD8 T cells, defined by activation-induced markers (AIMs), to SIV-infected cells. Eight out of the 15 infected macaques served as progressors; a chronic phase combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) model was established for the eight macaques (progressors) with chronic persistent infection status, wherein cART was started in the chronic phase and discontinued after 27 weeks. Seven macaques that naturally controlled the viremia served as natural controllers. The frequency of SIV-Gag-specific fCD8 T cells was inversely correlated with the amount of cell-associated SIV-
gag
RNA in the Tfh only under cART or in the controllers but not in untreated progressors. scRNA-seq of SIV-Gag-specific fCD8 T cells in various conditions revealed that the gene expression pattern of SIV-Gag-specific fCD8 T cells in the controllers was closer to that of those under cART than the untreated progressors. Comparing the SIV-Gag-specific fCD8 T cells of those under cART to the controllers revealed their more exhausted and immunosenescent nature under cART. Improving the HIV/SIV-specific fCD8 T cells under cART by targeting those pathways might contribute to the development of potential curative strategies.

IMPORTANCE

We infected cynomolgus macaques with SIVmac239 to establish an SIV-chronically infected cART model. We performed an in-depth characterization of Tfh and fCD8 T cells in three conditions—chronic stage of untreated, cART-treated, and natural controller cynomolgus macaques—by combining tissue section analysis and single-cell analyses of sorted cells. We revealed the inverse relationship between Tfh infection and SIV-Gag-specific fCD8 T cell frequencies as observed in HIV-infected individuals, thereby establishing the cynomolgus macaque as a relevant animal model to study the determinants of HIV/SIV persistence in lymphoid tissue. Additionally, scRNA-seq analysis of SIV-Gag-specific fCD8 T cells revealed an enrichment of exhausted or senescent transcriptomic signatures under cART. These data will provide the basic insights into virus-host CD8 T cell interactions, particularly within the follicular region, during latent HIV infection under ART.
Detrital thermochronology histories preserved in Paleogene strata of Utah (USA) provide distant records of Paleozoic Alleghanian orogenesis and sediment dispersal
Authors: Stevens Goddard Andrea L. , Black Sophie R. , Balgord Elizabeth A. , Anderson Zachary W. , Leary Ryan J. , Thurston Olivia G. , Yonkee W. Adolph
Published: December 2024

We present new zircon U-Pb and (U-Th)/He data from sandstone cobbles of the Paleocene−Eocene Wasatch Formation of northern Utah (western United States). Provenance data demonstrate that these zircons have been recycled through at least two sedimentary cycles, deposited first as sand grains in the Pennsylvanian−Permian Weber Sandstone and second as sandstone cobbles in the Wasatch Formation. The thermal history of these grains requires rapid Late Mississippian−Pennsylvanian cooling, preserving a new, distant record of early Alleghanian orogenesis that is also a distinct provenance signature. Zircon thermochronology provides a powerful archive of ancient exhumation patterns and continental-scale sediment transport and deposition. Our study demonstrates that such thermal histories are resilient throughout multiple episodes of recycling.
Synovial sarcoma masquerading as juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Mukherjee Sayan , Kumar Prasanna , Maurya Mukesh Kumar , Kumar Puneet
Published: December 2024

An early adolescent girl presented with chronic deforming monoarthritis. Initially misdiagnosed with skeletal tuberculosis, she received empirical treatment despite the absence of microbiological evidence. Her symptoms were managed intermittently with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, but the persistence and progression of her condition over the past 4 months raised suspicions of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Her clinical presentation deteriorated, with severe knee arthritis and rapid calf swelling, prompting differential diagnosis including necrotising fasciitis or a ruptured Baker’s cyst. Imaging confirmed synovitis with localised necrotising myositis, while persistent pain after fascial release and systemic inflammation without signs of infection indicated a more sinister underlying condition. Histopathological analysis of the biopsied tissue revealed synovial sarcoma, with subsequent PET-CT confirming skeletal and pulmonary metastasis. Despite timely diagnosis, the patient ultimately succumbed to her illness.
Nasal septum perforation induced by bevacizumab therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Pina Paulo , Teixeira Mónica , Coimbra Edite , Branquinho Francisco
Published: December 2024

Bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, has become a widely used treatment for various types of cancer, including metastatic colorectal cancer. However, while the benefits of bevacizumab in improving survival outcomes have been well-documented, it is important to consider the potential adverse effects associated with this therapy. We report a case of a male patient in his 50s with a history of metastatic colorectal cancer who began a regimen of bevacizumab in combination with chemotherapy. After several months of treatment, the patient began to experience rhinorrhoea and nasal crusting. Physical examination revealed a perforation of the nasal septum. While nasal septum perforation (NSP) is a known adverse effect of bevacizumab therapy, it is an uncommon occurrence, with only a few reported cases in the literature. Although no further extension of the NSP has been observed during the follow-up period, the treatment with bevacizumab was discontinued.
Cardiovascular health and economic outcomes under improved air quality in China: a modelling study
Authors: Wang Siyuan , Jiang Yawen , Xu Zhiwei , Di Tanna Gian Luca , Lewis Sarah , Chen Mingsheng , Downey Laura , Jan Stephen , Si Lei
Published: December 2024

Introduction

China faces the dual challenge of high air pollution and an increasing burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We aimed to estimate the healthcare costs associated with CVD and the quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) under scenarios of improved air quality in China.

Methods

A health prediction model was developed to estimate 10-year CVD-related costs and QALY associated with PM2.5 levels in 2015, as well as two hypothetical improved air quality scenarios: (1) the China national PM2.5 target of 35 µg/m³, and (2) the World Health Organization’s (WHO) PM2.5 guideline of 5 µg/m³. Population CVD risks were estimated from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Hazard ratios from WHO risk curves were subsequently applied to baseline cardiovascular risks to predict national 10-year estimates of ischaemic stroke and coronary heart disease-related healthcare expenditures and QALYs for individuals aged 45–85 under the three air quality scenarios.

Results

Under PM2.5 levels in 2015, we estimated a cumulative 10-year incidence of 35.40 million CVD events, resulting in healthcare costs of US$96.12 billion and 4.44 billion QALYs. Under the national target of 35 µg/m³, the projected 10-year CVD incidence was 31.92 million cases, resulting in cost savings of US$9.29 billion and 3.43 million QALY gains compared with 2015 levels. If PM2.5 concentration levels meet the WHO’s guideline of 5 µg/m³, the projected number of CVD events would decrease to 24.18 million, translating to cost savings of approximately US$30.10 billion and gains of 11.29 million QALYs.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that achieving the WHO recommended PM2.5 concentration level of 5 µg/m³ could lead to over threefold greater health and economic benefits than those achievable under national standards of 35 µg/m³. This underscores the potential need for stricter future national PM2.5 standards. Our findings also inform other low- and middle-income countries in establishing effective long-term PM2.5 targets.
Drug-eluting stents versus bare-metal stents for intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gong Haozhi , Luo Jichang , Xu Wenlong , Wang Jie , Yang Renjie , Yang Bin , Ma Yan , Wang Tao , Jiao Liqun
Published: December 2024

Background

In-stent restenosis (ISR) is the primary cause of stroke recurrence after intracranial stenting. Drug-eluting stents (DES) have recently shown great potential for reducing restenosis. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DES compared with bare-metal stents (BMS) for intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS).

Methods

We systematically searched the MEDLINE (Ovid), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase (Ovid) and Web of Science databases for studies published from inception through 10 October 2023, comparing DES with BMS for the treatment of symptomatic severe ICAS. We included randomised controlled trials and cohort studies that compared DES and BMS in adult patients with ICAS. The primary outcomes were stroke or death within 30 days and ISR within 1 year. Secondary outcomes included procedure-related adverse events, technical success, functional evaluation findings, restenosis degree and other safety endpoints within 1 year. Subgroup analyses were conducted across different study types.

Results

A total of 510 participants fulfilling all eligibility criteria were enrolled in four studies. DES had a similar rate of any stroke or death within 1 month (3 studies, 476 participants: risk ratio (RR): 1.00; 95% CI: 0.46 to 1.11; p=1.00; I2=31%) to that of the BMS group and had a significantly lower rate of ISR within 1 year (4 studies, 429 participants: RR: 0.23; 95% CI: 0.13 to 0.41; p<0.001; I2=0%). Moreover, a lower rate of stroke recurrence within 1 year was reported (3 studies, 436 participants: RR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.88; p=0.02; I2=52%) in the DES group.

Conclusion

This review demonstrates that the application of DES for intracranial stenting is safe and can significantly reduce the rates of ISR and recurrent ischaemic events. Further research is required to validate these results.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022338178.