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Untangling axons: distinguishing the geniculate ganglion and trigeminal ganglion contributions to mechanosensory innervation of the tongue
Oral mechanosensation underlies feeding, speech, and grooming, yet our understanding of the neurons and their terminals in the oral cavity remains limited. The trigeminal ganglion (TG) and geniculate ganglion (GG) provide mechanosensory innervation to the tongue, but their individual contributions anatomically and functionally are unknown. We employed intersectional genetics to distinguish RET-expressing TG and GG neurons, combined with immunolabeling and selective nerve transections to map innervation patterns in fungiform, filiform, and circumvallate papillae of the tongue. Contrary to dogma, both GG and TG fibers innervate filiform papillae, extragemmal fungiform regions, and taste buds. Reporter mice were generated to observe cells expressing RET ligands that would be innervated by these neurons, allowing identification of possible end-organ structures. Nerve transection experiments revealed that extragemmal GFRα1⁺ fibers derive mostly from TG, whereas intragemmal GFRα3⁺ fibers originate from GG. FM1-43 labeling, which detects the activated mechanosensory receptor PIEZO2 in nerve terminals, showed that tactile stimuli and consumption of foods with varying textures selectively activate GFRα1+ and, to a lesser extent, GFRα3+ fibers in distinct regions of papillae. These findings redefine oral mechanosensory wiring, highlighting complex ganglion-specific patterns and RET ligand-receptor pairing shaping texture perception. Significance statement Oral mechanosensation underlies our perception of food texture during feeding, and is critical for mastication and speech. The trigeminal ganglion (TG) and geniculate ganglion (GG) provide mechanosensory innervation to the tongue, but their individual anatomic contributions are unknown. Using molecular-genetic techniques, we unraveled the innervation of the surface papillae of the tongue by GG and TG. FM1-43 labeling, which detects the activated mechanosensory PIEZO2 receptor in nerve terminals, revealed that consumption of foods with varying textures selectively activates axon terminals in distinct regions of papillae. These findings redefine the wiring of oral mechanosensory neurons, highlighting complex ganglion-specific patterns that shape texture perception.
Positive and Negative Retinotopic Codes in the Human Hippocampus
The hippocampus sits at the apex of the visual hierarchy, yet little is known about the visual properties of this core memory structure. Recent work suggests that a latent, bivalent retinotopic code persists in large-scale memory networks at the cortical apex, scaffolding interactions with sensory networks. Here, we tested whether a bivalent retinotopic code also persists within the hippocampus. To do this, we leveraged high-resolution 7T functional MRI along with voxel-scale visual population receptive field (pRF) modeling in 7 densely-sampled individuals (5 female). Our findings reveal a robust, voxel-scale retinotopic code broadly distributed across subfields and along the long axis of the human hippocampus, comprised of roughly equal proportions of pRFs with positive and negative amplitude responses to visual stimulation. Hippocampal pRFs displayed canonical visual properties, including stable valence and visual field preferences across runs and a contralateral bias. Retinotopic structure also persisted at rest: hippocampal voxels with similar pRF locations were more strongly correlated than voxels representing different visual field locations. Finally, across the ventral visual stream, the prevalence of negative-amplitude pRFs increased with mnemonic involvement, culminating in the balanced, bivalent organization within the hippocampus. These findings support the view that sensory and mnemonic systems are coupled through a shared retinotopic code at the apex of the visual hierarchy. Significance Statement The hippocampus is closely coupled to the visual system, and recent work has challenged the classical view that visual coding schemes, like retinotopy, do not persist into the hippocampus. Here, we use high-resolution precision fMRI to robustly characterize a bivalent retinotopic code in the human hippocampus, consisting of both typical positive and atypical negative responses. We further show that this code predicts functional connectivity within the hippocampus even during non-visual tasks, suggesting that this bivalent retinotopic code may reflect an intrinsic organizational principle of the hippocampus relevant for perceptual-mnemonic segregation and integration.
Dynamic changes in cancer-specific mortality across survivorship stages in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma using landmark competing-risk analysis
Machine learning-based optimization of low pressure and putrescine for superior growth parameters and antioxidant metabolites in in vitro Ocimum basilicum seedlings
Functional status, depressive symptoms, sleep quality and fatigue in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a mediation analysis
Health risk assessment of exposure to metal fumes among welders under various seasonal conditions: a study based on Monte Carlo simulation
Transcriptomic and RNAi-mediated antiviral response to Kamiti River virus infection in Aedes albopictus U4.4 cells
Abstract Mosquitoes transmit arboviruses that represent major global public health challenges. Increasing insecticide resistance and absence of effective antiviral therapies underscore the need for novel vector control strategies. Insect-specific viruses have emerged as candidates for biological control, however, the cellular mechanisms underlying their interactions with mosquito hosts remain poorly understood. Here, we examined the immune response of Aedes albopictus U4.4 cells to Kamiti River virus (KRV) infection, an insect-specific flavivirus. Cells were infected with KRV, and transcriptomic and small RNA profiles were analyzed at 24, 48 and 72 h post-infection. KRV infection induced production of virus-derived small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs) and virus-derived PIWI-interacting RNA (vpiRNAs) from 24 to 72 h. The vsiRNAs predominantly mapped to the 3′ untranslated region of the KRV genome, whereas vpiRNAs formed distinct hotspots in regions encoding the NS1, NS3, NS4A/B and NS5 proteins. Transcriptomic analysis revealed upregulation of genes associated with the humoral immune response, including defensin, cecropin, and glutathione S-transferase, and downregulation of Toll-like receptors and ecdysone-induced transcripts at later stages of infection. These gene expression patterns suggest an early activation followed by suppression of key immune signaling pathways. Collectively, the findings indicate that KRV leads to coordinated modulation of antiviral RNAi and host transcriptional responses, consistent with a balanced, commensal-like interaction in mosquito cells.
Big data analytics capabilities enhance green product innovation and dual sustainability performance via green dynamic capabilities
Ameliorative effects of Crocin as a potent antioxidant with its spectral characterization against Cadmium chloride-induced hepatotoxicity
Changes in the hypertension care cascade among adults in Tamil Nadu, India, based on consecutive cross-sectional surveys 2020 and 2024
A scalable explainable deep learning framework for predictive analysis and interpretability of CO$$_2$$ emissions patterns
Impact of blood collection tubes on thrombin generation assay results: a comparison of citrate and CTAD
Abstract Accurate assessment of haemostasis is essential in both research and clinical practice. Thrombin generation assays (TGA) provide a comprehensive evaluation of coagulation; however, results can be influenced by preanalytical conditions, including the choice of blood collection tubes. Citrate-theophylline-adenosine-dipyridamole (CTAD) tubes are recommended by the manufacturer of the Ceveron ® alpha TGA system due to their ability to inhibit platelet activation. Nevertheless, CTAD tubes are costly, less widely available, and not manufactured in small volumes suitable for specific patient populations, such as paediatric cohorts. To evaluate whether standard citrate tubes can serve as a viable alternative, we prospectively compared TGA parameters from blood collected in 3.2% sodium citrate tubes versus CTAD tubes in 12 healthy volunteers. Assays were performed using low and high phospholipid micelle concentrations (RC low/RC high). Significant differences between citrate and CTAD were observed for all parameters with the RC low reagent. In contrast, only lag time showed significant differences with the RC high reagent. In conclusion, while citrate tubes may be used for TGA, the type of blood collection tube can influence measurements under specific assay conditions and should be considered a relevant factor when comparing and interpreting TGA results.
Development of hybrid polypropylene composites reinforced with chemically modified rice straw and foxtail millet husk for EV automotive applications
Abstract In this study, lightweight hybrid composites based on polypropylene (PP) reinforced with agricultural residues rice straw (RS) and foxtail millet husk (FMH) were developed for potential automotive applications in electric vehicles. A fiber mixture consisting of RS and FMH in a 1:1 ratio was subjected to chemical treatments using alkaline sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and tannic acid to extract cellulosic fibers and to compare the effectiveness of these treatments in improving fiber matrix interfacial adhesion. Hybrid composites containing 5–15 wt% fibers were fabricated via co-rotating twin-screw extrusion followed by compression moulding. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the removal of hemicellulose, lignin, and waxy components after alkali treatment, while tannic acid treatment introduced phenolic functional groups on the fiber surface. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed enhanced surface roughness, fibrillation, and improved dispersion of treated fibers within the PP matrix. Mechanical testing demonstrated significant improvement in tensile strength (29.51 MPa), flexural strength (64.61 MPa), and impact strength (6.976 kJ/m²) compared to untreated composites. These values exceed those typically reported for conventional natural fiber-reinforced PP composites tensile 20 to 28 MPa, flexural 35 to 60 MPa, indicating enhanced mechanical performance. The melt flow index (MFI) decreased to 3.649 g/10 min with increasing fiber loading, indicating improved melt resistance while maintaining adequate processability. The improved properties are attributed to the synergistic effect of hybrid fibre reinforcement and enhanced interfacial bonding facilitated by chemical treatments. These findings demonstrate that PP-based RS–FMH hybrid composites can serve as sustainable and lightweight materials for EV automotive components.
Potential protective effects of metformin on remote organ injury in the liver, kidney, and lung following experimental lower-extremity ischemia–reperfusion in non-diabetic rats
Research on the optimization design of historical town landscape form for climate comfort: a case study of Pingle Ancient Town in Sichuan Province, China
Radiation resistance of additively manufactured CrMoTaTiV compositionally complex alloys with enhanced mechanical properties
Abstract In this study, a novel Cr 10 Mo 25 Ta 25 Ti 15 V 25 refractory compositionally complex alloy (RCCA) was fabricated via laser powder directed energy deposition and subjected to irradiation at doses of up to 18 dpa at room temperature (RT) and 650 °C. Microstructural analysis revealed a dendritic BCC matrix, featuring localized enrichment of Cr, V, and Ti in the interdendritic regions, alongside a secondary FCC phase rich in Ti and O. Both compressive strength and ductility are much improved compared to the alloys produced by conventional production methods. Even at 1000 °C, the yield strength of 953 ± 70 MPa with extensive compressive ductility has been observed. Irradiation studies demonstrated that both phases remained stable, with no void formation or phase transformation. The lattice parameters of BCC matrix and FCC second phase fluctuate which was mainly attributed to local variation in composition. Loop size and density followed distinct temperature-dependent trends. At RT, limited kinetics favored loop nucleation while at 650 °C, loop coalescence was dominant. The high dislocation density inherent to additive manufacturing and sluggish diffusion in the RCCA matrix, coupled with O-rich FCC particles, contributed to the alloy’s robust radiation tolerance. These findings showcase the potential of additively manufactured RCCAs for next-generation nuclear fission and fusion applications.
Reduction of secondary bile acids following microbiome pre-conditioning was associated with reduced breast cancer progression
Abstract Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death in women worldwide. We previously reported that a primary bile acid mimetic reduced tumor progression in vivo. Here, we hypothesized that elevating primary bile acids through preconditioning of the gut microbiome may be an unexplored opportunity to improve breast cancer. We utilized the antibiotic vancomycin previously reported to deplete Gram-positive, anaerobic microbes that convert primary bile acids to secondary bile acids. Preconditioning with vancomycin significantly delayed tumor onset, decreased burden, promoted regression, and reduced the number of mice with lung colonization. Vancomycin reduced overall microbiome diversity and specific microbes in Clostridium Cluster XIVa , which associated with increased primary bile acid levels. We report that vancomycin significantly associated with elevated circulating bile acid tauro-alpha/beta-muricholic acid and reduced secondary bile acids that correlated with worsened tumor outcomes. Flow analysis of tumor content and systemic immune responses was associated with immune changes consistent with anti-tumor responses, including conventional dendritic cells and activated CD8 + T cells. In sum, we demonstrated that manipulation of the bile acid pools associated with improved breast cancer outcomes. The altered bile acids corresponded to an elevation of key immune cells, which may contribute to protection from primary breast cancer progression and lung colonization.
A study on the lifespan of burnt logs used in nature-based solutions for post-fire anti-erosion barriers and forest regeneration promotion
Abstract Mediterranean forest ecosystems are increasingly threatened by wildfires, compromising slope stability and delaying natural regeneration. In these contexts, Nature-based Solutions (NbS) represent sustainable approaches for post-fire restoration. This study evaluated the short- to medium-term structural durability and ecological effectiveness of fire-affected logs repositioned as erosion barriers after a large wildfire in a Pinus radiata stand in Southern Italy. The objectives were to assess the mechanical degradation of burnt logs using non-destructive technologies, to develop a predictive decay model, and to evaluate the effects of log arrangement on hydrological response and natural forest regeneration. Burnt logs were monitored over 24 months and classified according to bark damage. Wood decay was modelled using beta regression based on physical and mechanical parameters. Moderately burnt bark logs retained higher mechanical stability than logs with intact or completely burnt bark. Time since fire, bark damage class, and acoustic wave velocity were the main predictors of decay. Contour-aligned logs reduced runoff and erosion while promoting a higher proportion of established seedlings, whereas randomly distributed logs showed greater initial regeneration density but lower regeneration quality. These findings provide practical guidance for selecting fire-affected logs in NbS and improve understanding of their structural and ecological role in post-fire Mediterranean forest restoration.