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Inoculation of wheat seeds with spore-forming bacteria as a novel approach to enhance growth under climate change-induced stress conditions
Nonlinear association between TyG-BMI and MAFLD: A cross-sectional study
Background The relationship between the triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI) and the incidence of metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a trending research area. This association is highly important in the realms of healthcare and public health. Objective To explore the impact of TyG-BMI on MAFLD and its contribution to the evolution of diverse phenotypes of fatty liver. Methods In this cross-sectional study, curve fitting was used to assess the relationships between TyG-BMI and MAFLD as well as different MAFLD phenotypes, and multivariate ordinal logistic regression methods were employed to explore the stability of these relationships. Results Curve fitting revealed a nonlinear relationship between TyG-BMI and MAFLD, with a critical threshold of approximately 176.78. Similar relationships were observed between TyG-BMI and different fatty liver phenotypes. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that the TyG-BMI was independently associated with different fatty liver phenotypes (nonfibrotic MAFLD odds ratio (OR) = 11.29; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 8.38–15.21, p < 0.001; fibrotic MAFLD OR = 37.24, 95% CI = 25.92–53.51, P < 0.001). Even after full variable adjustment, this relationship remained stable (nonfibrotic MAFLD OR = 5.99, 95% CI = 3.25--11.06, P < 0.001; fibrotic MAFLD OR = 5.24, 95% CI = 2.28--12.06, P < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between TyG-BMI and CAP (correlation coefficient, 0.60) and a weak positive correlation with SWE (correlation coefficient, 0.29). Conclusions The TyG-BMI manifests a nonlinear relationship with the risk of developing distinct MAFLD phenotypes, suggesting its utility as a pivotal metric in the formulation of screening and preventive strategies for MAFLD.
Reduced Atlantic reef growth past 2 °C warming amplifies sea-level impacts
Abstract Coral reefs form complex physical structures that can help to mitigate coastal flooding risk1,2. This function will be reduced by sea-level rise (SLR) and impaired reef growth caused by climate change and local anthropogenic stressors3. Water depths above reef surfaces are projected to increase as a result, but the magnitudes and timescales of this increase are poorly constrained, which limits modelling of coastal vulnerability4,5. Here we analyse fossil reef deposits to constrain links between reef ecology and growth potential across more than 400 tropical western Atlantic sites, and assess the magnitudes of resultant above-reef increases in water depth through to 2100 under various shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) emission scenarios. Our analysis predicts that more than 70% of tropical western Atlantic reefs will transition into net erosional states by 2040, but that if warming exceeds 2 °C (SSP2–4.5 and higher), nearly all reefs (at least 99%) will be eroding by 2100. The divergent trajectories of reef growth and SLR will thus magnify the effects of SLR; increases in water depth of around 0.3–0.5 m above the present are projected under all warming scenarios by 2060, but depth increases of 0.7–1.2 m are predicted by 2100 under scenarios in which warming surpasses 2 °C. This would increase the risk of flooding along vulnerable reef-fronted coasts and modify nearshore hydrodynamics and ecosystems. Reef restoration offers one pathway back to higher reef growth6,7, but would dampen the effects of SLR in 2100 only by around 0.3–0.4 m, and only when combined with aggressive climate mitigation.
Enhanced nonlinear optical responses in two-dimensional materials via laser-induced topological phase transitions
Exploring the do-it-yourself approach in subjective refraction
Purpose To evaluate the precision and accuracy of a novel do-it-yourself (DIY) subjective refraction technique utilizing a manual tunable spherical lens and an adjustable astigmatic lens. Methods Sixty-six participants performed three self-refraction measurements using a DIY approach, while an optometrist conducted one measurement using the traditional subjective refraction methodology. The DIY approach relied on power vector analysis, where a tunable spherical lens and an adjustable astigmatic lens (Stokes lens), aligned to the participant’s eye, were rotated to obtain measurements. The study assessed refractive error, visual acuity, and required measurement time. Repeatability was evaluated using the coefficient of repeatability, and agreement between methods was analyzed using limits of agreement. Results The coefficients of repeatability for refractive error components (M, J0, J45) were ±0.38 D, ± 0.21 D, and ±0.21 D, respectively. Visual acuity showed a repeatability of ±0.06 logMAR, and the required time had a repeatability of ±55 seconds. The limits of agreement between the DIY approach and the traditional method were ±0.64 D, ± 0.36 D, and ±0.26 D for refractive error components, ± 0.04 logMAR for visual acuity, and ±127 seconds for required time. Conclusions The DIY approach can be considered a repeatable alternative among self-subjective refraction methods, although it is a first attempt and not yet fully automatic. While it cannot supplant traditional subjective refraction and further research would be required to address, it has the potential to be a viable option in certain specific cases, such as circumstances characterized by a lack of eye care professionals or humanitarian works.
Chemistry Nobel for scientists who developed massively porous ‘super sponge’ materials
Deep learning for robust orbit control of Elettra 2.0 storage ring
Mapping of shore area wetlands in Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve, Northwest Ethiopia using Sentinel-1A SAR and multi-source data
Shore area wetlands (lacustrine fringe) play a critical role as ecotones that support biodiversity, provide habitats for spawning and refuge, and exhibit high levels of primary productivity. They facilitate significant exchanges of materials between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. To effectively manage and preserve these important resources, it is essential to understand their distribution, size, and dynamic changes. This study aimed to create an accurate map of shoreline wetlands using multi-temporal and multi-source data, wetland indicators such as wetland hydrology (WH), hydrophytic vegetation (HV), hydric soil (HS), and radar imagery from Sentinel-1A, employing Geomatica software. Additionally, ArcGIS software was used to map the topographic position (TP), Lake Bathymetry (LB), and HS indicators for wetlands. The analytical hierarchy process and weighted overlay methods were also applied in the mapping process for integrating all the indicators to obtain the final extent of shoreline wetlands. The TP wetland indicator map covered about 55,364 ha, while HS covered around 55,151 ha within a 3 km buffer from Lake Tana. The map of WH indicator for wetlands revealed that permanently inundated areas accounted for roughly 591,312 ha, and when temporarily inundated areas were included, the total coverage increased to 607,053 ha. HV, including invasive water hyacinth, covered over 74,772 ha. Overall, shoreline wetlands were predominantly located within three kilometers of the terrestrial area from Lake Tana, totaling 26,664 ha. The overall accuracy of land use and cover classification was recorded at 79%, with a Kappa statistic of 0.70, indicating that the resulting map is of acceptable quality. The integration of multi-temporal and multi-source data, along with wetland indicators and radar imagery from Sentinel-1A using Geomatica software, has provided valuable insights into the spatial distribution of shoreline wetlands in Lake Tana. The findings from this study will serve as an important reference for future research aimed at effectively managing and conserving these vital resources.
Investigating the morphological changes of scour hole around gabion spur dikes
The effects of RYSEN-induced supportive, propelling and impeding forces on step parameters and muscular control in walking after stroke
Background Body weight support (BWS) devices are increasingly used for gait training after stroke. The RYSEN not only allows for vertical BWS but also for the addition of mediolateral and anteroposterior forces. To assess to what extent the RYSEN could be used for targeted gait training, this study aimed to investigate the effect of BWS with and without the addition of mediolateral and anteroposterior forces on step parameters and muscular control in individuals after stroke and able-bodied individuals. Methods In this cross-sectional study, fifteen individuals after stroke and fifteen able-bodied individuals completed several overground walking conditions: unsupported and BWS with(out) mediolateral and anteroposterior forces. Step length, step width (variability), single stance time and walking speed were determined using motion capture data. Muscular control was assessed using electromyography. Linear mixed-effect models were used to analyze the (interaction) effects of condition and group on step parameters. Statistical parametric mapping was used to analyze muscular control. Findings Providing BWS led to increased speed and balance confidence in individuals after stroke, and caused decreased speed, step width variability and m. Gluteus Medius activity in able-bodied individuals. Adding mediolateral forces did not lead to additional changes. Adding anterior forces increased speed in individuals after stroke. Adding posterior forces slightly increased plantar flexor activity during push-off in able-bodied individuals. Interpretation RYSEN BWS facilitates gait training at increased speed and balance confidence. Adding mediolateral or anteroposterior forces did not provide strong additional effects. Further research may determine how these forces can be better utilized during training.
Application of on-demand aqueous chlorine dioxide solution for non-surgical root canal treatment
Abstract Oral biofilms contribute to apical periodontitis, a major cause of tooth loss. This study evaluated the potential of an on-demand aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, “matching transformation system” (MA-T), as a safer alternative to conventional root canal irrigants. The antibacterial activity of MA-T was assessed against mono-species biofilms (Enterococcus faecalis, Parvimonas micra, Fusobacterium nucleatum), polymicrobial biofilms derived from human supragingival plaque, and an in vitro infected root canal model using E. faecalis. Antibacterial efficacy was evaluated using viable cell counting and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) to quantify the reduction in bacterial load. Biofilm mass was assessed by crystal violet (CV) staining. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by treating rat osteoblasts and human periodontal ligament fibroblasts with MA-T or NaOCl, followed by assessment of ATP levels and morphological integrity. MA-T eradicated planktonic bacteria, inhibited biofilm formation, and significantly reduced viable bacteria in established biofilms without affecting the total amount of biofilm biomass time-dependently. The infected root canal model showed a substantial decrease in bacterial load. Compared with NaOCl, MA-T-treated cells retained higher ATP levels and normal morphology. MA-T could be a promising root canal irrigant offering effective disinfection and superior biocompatibility, making it a potential alternative to traditional root canal irrigants as NaOCl.
The knowledge level and influencing factors of sarcopenia among Chinese community-dwelling older adults
Aim This study aimed to assess the knowledge level of sarcopenia and its influencing factors among Chinese community-dwelling older adults. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study using the sociodemographic questionnaire, the Sarcopenia Knowledge Awareness Survey Scale and the SARC-CalF scales for data collection in 5 communities in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Influencing factors of sarcopenia knowledge were analyzed by logistic regression, and a decision tree model. Results A total of 569 participants were included in the analysis. Only 17.8% participants had heard of sarcopenia, 19.3% of participants screened positive for sarcopenia, and 29.0% had a self-assessed muscle status that was inconsistent with the actual screened sarcopenia status. Those aged 75 years and above were more likely to have inadequate sarcopenia knowledge (OR=0.468,95% CI = 0.303–0.723). The group with the highest proportion of low sarcopenia knowledge consisted of those who lived alone or with children, had an education level of middle school or below, and never engaged in any social activities (97.6%). Conclusions Knowledge of sarcopenia among older adults in Chinese communities is still inadequate. Further tailored interventions may help to ameliorate this lack of knowledge.
Polyphasic and comparative genomic characterization of a novel Mariniflexile species in the rhizosphere microbiome of tomato resistant to bacterial wilt
Simulate the natural four-season fermentation system for high-salt diluted-state soy sauce brewing: Application in flavor promotion regulation
The seasonal temperature dependency of soy sauce fermentation poses significant challenges to flavor consistency, particularly under low-temperature conditions (e.g., 15°C in winter), where diminished aroma arises from microbial metabolic constraints. Traditional multi-year field studies to decipher these mechanisms are impractical for rapid industrial optimization. In this study, we present an innovative laboratory-based seasonal temperature simulation fermentation system that precisely replicates climatic conditions (15–37°C) of the Lingnan region, enabling accelerated investigation of microbial dynamics and targeted strain interventions. Our findings revealed that, compared to the 30°C (simulating the autumn season) fermented soy sauce, which exhibits optimal flavor, 15°C (simulating the winter season) had a weaker flavor of soy sauce due to the low relative abundance of specific strains, especially Staphylococcus lloydii, Leuconostoc lactis, and Kodamaea ohmeri. Those three strains were added into the low-temperature fermentation process, Staphylococcus lloydii and Kodamaea ohmeri promoted the formation of soy sauce key aroma compounds, such as benzene acetaldehyde, 1-octen-3-ol, and ethyl acetate. Our research offers the soy sauce industry a feasible tool to efficiently and cost-effectively test the reinoculation of functional microbial strains, thereby ensuring consistent flavor profiles throughout the year.
Genome-wide characterization of lumpy skin disease virus isolate from Bangladesh
An investigation on amyloid beta plaque dissociation in U87MG cells of in-vitro digested pomegranate peel
Groundbreaking quantum-tunnelling experiments win physics Nobel
Integration of MULTIMOORA algorithm combined with circular q-rung orthopair fuzzy information for optimizing player positioning
Abstract The following paper presents a new analytical framework for the optimization of player positioning, a methodology with significant practical implications. The method implements the multi-objective optimization by ratio analysis with full multiplicative form (MULTIMOORA) in a decision-making context in which several non-commensurable performance variables have to be combined. The application of Dombi operationalizes the framework by prioritizing weighted aggregation operators coupled with circular q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets (Cq-ROFSs). The Cq-ROFSs allow multidimensional representation of uncertainty, and allow dynamic actions upon the fuzzy parameter q, such that both intuitionistic fuzzy sets and Pythagorean fuzzy sets are subsets. Two Dombi prioritized operators on Cq-ROFSs are thereby devised a Cq-ROFSs Dombi prioritized weighted averaging operator (Cq-ROFSDPWA) and a Cq-ROFSs Dombi prioritized weighted geometric operator (Cq-ROFSDPWG). Results from empirical experiments are reported that demonstrate the performance of the resulting methodology, highlighting its practical relevance. The fundamental properties of these operators are also examined. The proposed aggregation operators are applied within the MULTIMOORA technique to assess their effectiveness. Numerical examples demonstrate that the methods yield logical and consistent results across different decision-making scenarios. Comparative analyses further highlight the advantages of the Cq-ROFSDPWA and Cq-ROFSDPWG operators over existing approaches.