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Molecular effects of digital psychological intervention for perinatal stress: cell culture, animal model validation, and machine learning-based biomarker identification

Investigating human paleodiet at Mesolithic Yuzhniy Oleniy Ostrov, Karelia using a multi-proxy stable isotope approach

This study employs multiple isotopic proxies to investigate dietary practices at Yuzhniy Oleniy Ostrov (YOO, Karelia, north-western Russia), the largest Mesolithic cemetery in northern Europe. Building on previous research, we combine bulk δ ¹³C and δ ¹⁵N collagen measurements from 60 human individuals with new δ ¹³C values on enamel bioapatite (n = 10) and the first archaeological compound-specific isotope analysis of amino acids (CSIA-AA) from north-western Russia (n = 6), to provide a more comprehensive view of local resource use and dietary patterns. Results show that YOO forms a distinct isotopic cluster within the broader circum-Baltic hunter-gatherer-fisher spectrum, characterized by unusually high δ ¹⁵N values for an inland site. CSIA-AA and combined enamel-collagen δ ¹³C data do not indicate marine contributions or freshwater seal hunting as the drivers of these values, instead confirming a high reliance on freshwater resources compatible with the Lake Onega system and potentially an increased diet-to-tissue offset related to a high protein diet. FRUITS Bayesian dietary modelling similarly indicated a high freshwater component, alongside unexpectedly low contributions from terrestrial game and high estimates for plant foods. The latter results diverge from ethnographic expectations for boreal hunter-gatherer-fisher subsistence and may reflect current limitations in modelling lipid intake and adaptive strategies in high-protein diets, highlighting a need to reconsider how isotopic and ethnographic data are integrated. Isotopic variability between individuals was minimal, with no significant differences by sex or burial location, supporting a shared dietary regime during the relatively short period of site use. Overall, this study presents the most detailed isotopic evaluation of diet at Yuzhniy Oleniy Ostrov to date and underscores the value of multi-proxy isotope analysis in exploring prehistoric lifeways.

Multi-kingdom gut microbiota characterization in Chinese patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Membrane Vesicles (MVs) exhibit immunomodulatory and bactericidal effects against Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium

The indiscriminate use of antibiotics has led to an increase in multidrug-resistant bacteria, necessitating the search for effective alternative therapies to reduce antimicrobial use. Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) have been explored as an alternative to antibiotics due to their multiple beneficial properties. These bacteria secrete membrane vesicles (MVs), key acellular components in combating pathogens. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MVs co-cultured with Escherichia coli (MVsplE) or Salmonella Typhimurium (MVsplS) through inhibition assays using disk diffusion on agar plates, as well as their activation and cytokine expression in the RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. The results showed that MVsplE and MVsplS were produced in greater quantity and size than non-co-cultured L. plantarum MVs (MVspl). Additionally, MVsplE and MVsplS exhibited a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the growth of enteropathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with these MVs demonstrated that the expression of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-10 depended on the enteropathogenic strain with which L. plantarum was previously co-cultured. Following a challenge with enteropathogenic bacteria, the MVs induced an immunomodulatory response. These findings demonstrate that L. plantarum MVs exert bactericidal and immunomodulatory effects against enteropathogenic bacteria, suggesting their potential use as an alternative treatment to antimicrobials.

Enhanced colorectal gland segmentation through multi-scale attention and contextual feature fusion

The mediation effect of general self-efficacy in relation to procrastination and sense of coherence among adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Procrastination, defined as a tendency to delay starting or finishing tasks despite awareness of negative consequences, is a common problem among adults diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In the context of ADHD, procrastination not only exacerbates difficulties related to concentration and organization but also affects overall life functioning, interpersonal relationships, and mental health. Therefore, identifying protective factors that can mitigate the impact of procrastination on the lives of people with ADHD is crucial. The aim of this study was to underscore the importance of general self-efficacy as a potential intervention target for improving the psychological well-being in terms of the sense of coherence. The study involved 180 people aged 18–56 years. All the study participants had been diagnosed with ADHD, some of whom were undergoing therapy and pharmacological treatment. The participants filled out a self-report questionnaire consisting of demographic variable measurement and three psychometric tools. The results of the analyses indicated a negative relationship between procrastination and sense of coherence, as well as between procrastination and self-efficacy, and a positive relationship between self-efficacy and sense of coherence. The obtained results of the mediation analysis support the research hypothesis of a partial mediation effect that a self-efficacy weakens the relationship between procrastination and a sense of coherence. The study contributes to the understanding of ADHD in adults and highlights the critical role of psychological factors in managing its symptoms and improving quality of life.

Performance evaluation and TiGRA-based multi-response optimization of sustainable fly ash-slag-based one-part alkali-activated concrete mix design

Abstract The need for sustainable, practical alternatives to Portland cement and two-part alkali-activated systems has led to the development of one-part alkali-activated concrete (OPAAC), which efficiently reuses industrial by-products like fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). This study evaluates the fresh (workability) and hardened properties (compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths) of FA-GGBS-based OPAAC, along with durability indicators including sorptivity and chloride ion permeability. A performance-based multi-response optimization using a Taguchi L 9 array and Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) is adopted to optimize the binder ratio (FA: GGBS), water-to-binder ratio (w/b), and activator-to-binder ratio (A/b). SEM and XRD analyses indicate that the porous, N-A-S-H–dominated matrix observed in FA-rich mixes gradually evolves into a denser C-A-S-H/N-C-A-S-H gel network as the GGBS content increases, correlating with improved strength and durability. The optimal OPAAC mix, achieving an M40 grade concrete, is obtained at a 70:30 binder ratio, a water-to-binder ratio (w/b) of 0.35, and an activator-to-binder (A/b) ratio of 14%. This work directly supports global sustainability efforts by promoting low-carbon materials, resource efficiency, and environmentally responsible construction, aligning with SDGs 9, 11, 12 and 13.

Personality is predictive of burnout but not of work engagement: A one-year prospective cohort study

This prospective cohort study aimed to longitudinally verify correlations between dimensions of the five-factor model of personality with work engagement and burnout. In the study, an online survey was conducted twice, with a one-year interval, targeting regular employees at a Japanese company (baseline survey: November–December 2022, follow-up survey: November–December 2023). Data from 500 individuals (299 men, 201 women) who responded to both surveys were used for analysis. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used. Baseline scores and demographic variables were adjusted. Personality did not significantly correlate with work engagement. However, among job resources, significant correlations were observed for extrinsic rewards ( β  = 0.15) and coworker support ( β  = 0.12). Meanwhile, significant correlations were noted for burnout with degree of job demands ( β  = 0.10), neuroticism ( β  = 0.08), and conscientiousness ( β  = −0.08). When implementing organizational measures focusing on worker personality, those for preventing burnout are more effective compared with those promoting work engagement.

Muscle-Derived BMP4 Regulates Morphology and Function of Endplates on Extrafusal and Intrafusal Muscle Fibers in Adult Mice

Understanding factors contributing to neuromuscular junction (NMJ) stability postdevelopment will shed light on how this stability is lost during aging and in neuromuscular diseases. Previous work in Drosophila suggests that morphogens within the bone morphogenic protein (BMP) family are potential candidates because the BMP homolog, gbb , along with its receptor, wit , have key roles in NMJ structure, stability, and function. Whether BMPs have similar roles at vertebrate NMJs is currently unknown. To examine this question, we generated doxycycline-inducible, muscle-specific BMP4 null mice, referred to here as HSA Cre BMP4 fl/fl mice. Motor behavior tasks were examined pre- and postinduction while electrophysiological and morphological characteristics were examined 4 months later in mice of both sexes. Soleus muscles from HSA Cre BMP4 fl/fl mice had significantly reduced contractile force compared with wild-type (WT) littermates. Cross-sectional areas of type I, but not type IIa, muscle fibers were reduced. NMJs were also larger in HSA Cre BMP4 fl/fl muscles compared with controls due to a significant increase in acetylcholine receptor fragment number and distribution. HSA Cre BMP4 fl/fl NMJs displayed reduced amplitude and frequency of miniature endplate potentials (mEPPs), evoked EPP amplitude, and quantal content and had increased failure rates when stimulating at high frequencies. Behaviorally, HSA Cre BMP4 fl/fl mice performed increasingly worse over time on the rotarod after doxycycline administration compared with their WT littermates. Finally, muscle spindle structure and proprioceptive function were significantly compromised in HSA Cre BMP4 fl/fl mice. These results indicate that muscle-derived BMP4 regulates morphological and electrophysiological attributes of the NMJ in adult mice as well as the structure and function of muscle spindles.

Genetic landscape of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia in Taiwan

Exploring the mechanism by which tourists’ perceived value influences revisit intention in sustainable gardens: A case study of KICG-sustainable garden, Shanghai

Sustainable gardens have emerged as innovative models of urban tourism that integrate ecological aesthetics, participatory design, and community well-being. This study explores how tourists’ perceived value influences revisit intention and introduces two experiential moderators—narrative transportation and empowerment capability—to uncover the underlying psychological and participatory mechanisms that drive behavioral intention. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining grounded theory interviews to develop the conceptual framework with a large-scale survey analyzed using structural equation modeling (SmartPLS). The results demonstrate that perceived value positively affects revisit intention through tourist satisfaction, while narrative transportation and empowerment capability significantly strengthen these relationships by enhancing emotional immersion and participatory engagement. These findings advance sustainable tourism theory by highlighting the dual-path moderating effects of storytelling and empowerment in shaping visitor behavior. Practically, the study provides actionable insights for sustainable garden management, emphasizing the importance of immersive narratives and participatory empowerment in fostering long-term tourist loyalty and sustainable destination development.

Numerical analysis of a THz sensor for atmospheric pollutant detection in agricultural areas of Hail, Saudi Arabia

Prevalence, etiology, and transmission of fibropapillomatosis in Olive Ridley turtles at a mass-nesting colony in the Mexican Pacific

Fibropapillomatosis (FP) is a widespread disease in sea turtles characterized by the development of internal and external tumors that hinder physiological and general functions. Chelonid alphaherpesvirus 5 (ChAHV5) is recognized as the causative agent and has been studied and characterized worldwide. Here, we evaluated the prevalence and severity of FP in olive ridley females ( Lepidochelys olivacea ) during the mass-nesting season from July 2022 to January 2023 at Playa Escobilla, Oaxaca, on the Mexican Pacific coast. Using fragments of the capsid protein (UL18) and DNA polymerase (UL30) genes, we assessed the molecular detection of viral DNA in tumors and healthy tissues from FP-affected and apparently healthy females. To explore the potential role of the marine leech Ozobranchus branchiatus as a vector, we also screened leeches collected from both FP-affected and healthy turtles for viral DNA. Additionally, we identified ChAHV5 genetic variants from UL18 and UL30 sequences obtained from turtles and leeches. The estimated FP prevalence was 1.05%. Among the 62 FP-affected females, 82% were classified as mild, 13% as moderate, and 5% as severe. Molecular detection using the UL30 marker achieved a 100% detection rate in FP-affected turtles and 91% in apparently healthy individuals. In contrast, viral DNA was detected in only 6% of the analyzed leeches. Based on UL18, we identified a novel variant exclusive to olive ridley turtles (UL18_haplotype 3), while six UL30 variants were recorded, with UL30_Var01 being the most abundant and widely distributed in the Pacific. The low detection rate of ChAHV5 in leeches does not support their role as vectors. Our findings provide critical evidence of latent viral presence and highlight the need for integrating molecular surveillance in nesting sites to improve our understanding of FP dynamics and its potential impact on sea turtle conservation.

Space Impacts Temporal Processing via a Visual-Dependent Spatially Organized Neural Architecture

Establishing the temporal relationship between stimuli challenges the brain, requiring some tolerance for asynchronies to form coherent representations. Based on the theory of implicit causal inference, we hypothesized that temporal processing of events is influenced by spatial features as stimuli coming from the same spatial location are most likely to derive from a common source and, consequently, implicitly merged in time. As visual experience guides the formation of neural sensory maps, we expected the spatial influence on temporal processing to depend on visual experience. In Experiment 1, 41 sighted children and adults (22 females) judged the temporal order of auditory and tactile stimuli delivered to the same or different hands (somatotopic manipulation), with hands either close or far apart (spatiotopic manipulation). In Experiment 2, sighted individuals (15 females) were compared with 26 early blind children and adults (12 females) during the somatotopic manipulation with hands far apart. Results revealed an improvement of temporal resolution with age in sighted individuals, while blind children performed similarly to adults. Notably, spatial features affected the temporal processing of sighted but not blind people, regardless of age. Sighted participants showed higher temporal tolerance toward asynchronies in the case of somatotopic or spatiotopic congruence. A bioinspired neurocomputational model has been developed to unveil neural mechanisms underlying the interaction between spatial and temporal processing. The model demonstrates that temporal processing is mediated by a spatially organized synaptic architecture, which requires visual experience to develop. Without vision, spatial alignment may not be conceptualized as a prior influencing temporal processing.

Modeling fatty liver disease and progression with stem cell derived hepatocytes

Abstract Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is one of the most pervasive liver disorders. It can progress to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), hallmarked by increased inflammation and inclination to permanent liver damage. Given the limited treatment options available to patients, models that recapitulate critical features of disease pathogenesis are needed to improve drug development. Here, a MASLD model was developed by differentiating hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in 2D and 3D, in which hepatic aggregates exhibited enhanced functionality. Induced HLCs exposed to free fatty acids led to a steatotic phenotype, partially reducing hepatic function. Biochemical cues released from induced HLCs promoted activation of fibroblasts, resulting in increased inflammatory cytokine secretion and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. These findings suggest paracrine signaling from hepatocytes to the surrounding stroma can trigger the progression of MASH and fibrosis. Collectively, our results demonstrate the utility of hiPSC derivatives for modeling liver diseases and reveal how heterotypic interactions can drive disease progression.

In-hospital survival and predictors of mortality among stroke patients at a tertiary hospital in Ghana: A retrospective cohort study

Introduction Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In Ghana, national estimates show a prevalence of 7.9% and an incidence rate of 1.2%, placing a significant burden on the health system. This study aimed to estimate in-hospital survival rates and identify predictors of mortality among stroke patients admitted to Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH). Methods A retrospective electronic medical records review was conducted using data from the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS) and patients’ registry from January 1 2021 to December 31 2023. Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to determine the survival rate of stroke patients (mean follow-up: 67 days). Cox proportional hazard regression determined the association between risk factors and survival time. Crude and adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals were presented. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 998 stroke patients were included, of which 39.4% died. The overall survival rate was 21% at the end of follow-up (182 days). The survival probability for female stroke patients was lower compared to males. Female sex (AHR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.07–1.65), Dagomba ethnicity (AHR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.05–1.62), pneumonia (AHR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.27–1.97), diabetes mellitus (AHR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.47–0.82), systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg (AHR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.06–1.73), and temperature ≥ 37.5°C (AHR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.37–2.33) were predictors of mortality. Conclusion Female stroke patients experienced higher mortality and lower survival compared to males. The identified mortality predictors underscore the importance of focused interventions to enhance survival outcomes at TTH. Given the retrospective design and possible unmeasured confounders, the lower mortality risk among diabetic patients should be interpreted with caution, and prospective studies are warranted to confirm these associations.

Multi-access edge computing scheduling optimization model for remote education under 6G network environment based on reinforcement learning

Abstract The evolution of digital education necessitates robust computational frameworks to address the complexities inherent in remote learning environments. Traditional scheduling mechanisms often fall short in accommodating the dynamic nature of learner engagement and the asynchronous delivery of content. To bridge this gap, we introduce a novel computational model that leverages reinforcement learning to optimize content delivery schedules. Central to our approach is the Attentive Stochastic Transition Estimation Network (ASTEN), which models the probabilistic transitions of learner states, accounting for factors such as attention variability and feedback delays. Complementing ASTEN is the Selective Informative Delivery Strategy (SIDS), a decision-theoretic framework that determines optimal content emission based on real-time uncertainty assessments and pedagogical utility. Our approach captures nuanced behavioral trends, such as sporadic learner interaction, temporal learning decay, and individualized attention cycles, thereby enabling a more responsive and tailored instructional strategy. By explicitly integrating cognitive and behavioral signals within the scheduling framework, our model facilitates the delivery of content that aligns with each learner’s evolving state. Empirical evaluations demonstrate that our integrated model significantly enhances learning outcomes by adapting to individual learner trajectories and mitigating the challenges posed by sparse feedback. This research contributes to the theoretical foundations of computational learning models and offers practical insights for the development of adaptive educational technologies, particularly in environments where traditional one-size-fits-all approaches prove inadequate.

Multimorbidity and cancer treatment among the older patients in the United States

Introduction The number of individuals who are diagnosed with cancer and other comorbidities continues to increase, and the average number of comorbidities among racial/ethnic minority patients is higher than non-Hispanic (N.H.)-white patients. Therefore, we explored the association between race/ethnicity, comorbidities, and cancer treatment among older Americans diagnosed with the four most common cancer types. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, SEER-Medicare linked data were used to identify 692,159 individuals over 65 years old diagnosed with female breast, colorectal, lung, or prostate cancer from 1992–2011. Multimorbidity was defined as having cancer plus two or more comorbidities. Modified Poisson regression models were used to assess the association between comorbidities and race/ethnicity on cancer treatment within 6 months of diagnosis. Results For all cancers, the percentage of patients receiving treatment declined over time and with increasing age, number of comorbidities, and advanced cancer stage. Variability in receipt of treatment by race/ethnicity was observed: 76% for NH-White, 75% for Hispanic, and 68% for NH-Black patients. Concurrently, multimorbidity was increasing over time for all patients. Adjusting for other covariates, patients with multimorbidity were less likely to receive cancer treatment (RR = 0.987–0.947, all p-value<0.001). Moreover, NH-Black (RR = 0.955–0.865, all p-value<0.001) and Hispanic (RR = 0.987–0.951, all p-value<0.001) patients without multimorbidity were less likely to be treated compared to NH-White patients without multimorbidity. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the prevalence of multimorbidity among older patients with cancer has increased and negatively affected cancer treatment among this population. Racial disparities may exist in cancer treatment and seem to be more pronounced in patients without multimorbidity.

Elevated serotonin receptor 2A signaling restores learning and memory in a Fragile X syndrome model

Abstract Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) has central roles enabling learning and memory, particularly via serotonin receptor 2A (5-HT 2A R) signaling. Drosophila Fragile X syndrome model ( dfmr1 null mutant) studies reveal impaired learning and memory, which may reflect serotonergic signaling deficits. Here, we use classical olfactory T-maze conditioning to assess behavior, combined with imaging to assess 5-HT and 5-HT 2A R levels within the underlying Mushroom Body (MB) brain circuitry. Null dfmr1 mutants exhibit learning and memory deficits that are corrected by elevating 5-HT signaling via 1) overexpression of the serotonin biosynthetic enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase (Trhn) or 2) knockdown of the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT). Direct comparisons reveal both Trhn and SERT manipulations equally restore learning and memory in dfmr1 null mutants. 5-HT 2A R levels in the MB circuit are reduced relative to controls in dfmr1 mutants, and 5-HT 2A R RNAi phenocopies dfmr1 null behavioral deficits, suggesting these phenotypes are primarily caused by the loss of 5-HT 2A R signaling. Consistently, 5-HT 2A R overexpression in dfmr1 nulls restores normal learning and memory compared to controls. These findings suggest loss of 5-HT 2A R signaling causes learning and memory deficits in this Fragile X syndrome model, and that rectifying this signaling impairment can restore learning and memory, providing a framework for serotonergic intervention strategies.

Economical management of virtual power plant source-network-load-storage in the context of electricity-carbon market

Under the imperative of achieving dual-carbon goals, the number of distributed energy resources are gradually increasing, thereby amplifying the challenges to grid stability and power balance. Consequently, there is an urgent need to leverage the potential of source-network-load-storage for enhanced power regulation and control. This paper proposes a cloud-edge-end-based multi-time scale economical management of virtual power plant (VPP) source-network-load-storage in the context of electricity-carbon market. In the first layer, a cloud-edge scheduling approach is used to optimize the source-network-load-storage system of the VPP over a long time horizon, aiming to maximize economic benefits. In the second layer, a novel real-time pricing mechanism is employed to effectively manage and regulate the electric vehicle (EV) storage and charging stations. After obtaining the economic management parameters from the previous layer, the second layer employs a real-time scheduling approach based on end-side model predictive control (MPC), to address multi-energy supply-demand fluctuations. To achieve efficient solution, the original two-layer optimization problem is reformulated using mixed-integer linear programming (MILP). Comparative analyses have demonstrated the superior economic and practical performance of the proposed two-layer optimization approach. Simulation results indicate that the total operating cost of the system can be reduced by 2.35%, with a higher flexibility of electricity market operations.