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Zwitterionic Sulfadiazine-Based Micelle Achieves Effective Drug Delivery to Glioblastoma by Overcoming Multiple Biological Barriers

Journal of the American Chemical Society Ke Zheng, Xumei Ouyang, Jing Li et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.5c10422

Atomic Exploration of the Fluorination-Driven Structural Rearrangement of Carbon Electrocatalysts toward Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reactions

Journal of the American Chemical Society Yang Li, Zhen Cao, Cailing Chen et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.5c11417

Stochastic Interface Formation in Nanoscale Heterostructures Visualized by Atomic-Resolution Microscopy

Journal of the American Chemical Society Miyuki Hanazawa, Masaya Sakakibara, Ryo Ishikawa et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.5c10326

Effects of gastrocnemius functional massage on lower extemity spasticity, spatio- temporal gait variables and fall risk in patients with stroke: A randomized controlled trial

PLoS ONE Aziz Dengiz, Serbay Sekeroz, Emre Baskan et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0332308

Aim This randomized controlled clinical trial investigated the effects of gastrocnemius functional massage (GFM) combined with neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) on spasticity, gait parameters, and functional mobility in stroke patients. Methods A total of 28 chronic stroke survivors were randomized into an experimental group (EG, n = 13) and a control group (CG, n = 15). Both groups received NDT twice a week for six weeks, while the EG received additional GFM. Spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale), gait parameters (LegSys), and functional mobility (Timed Up and Go test) were assessed pre- and post-treatment. Results The results showed significant improvements in spasticity within the EG for the hip adductor (p = 0.002), knee extensor (p = 0.006), and ankle plantar flexor muscles (p = 0.002), compared to minimal changes in the CG (p > 0.05). Gait analysis revealed significant improvements in the EG for stride number (p = 0.0001), stride length (p = 0.006), stride time (p = 0.001), and stride velocity (p = 0.002), whereas the CG showed no significant changes (p > 0.05). Functional mobility improvements in the EG included reduced sit-to-stand time (p = 0.021) and total Timed Up and Go time (p = 0.001), indicating enhanced dynamic balance and lower extremity strength. Conclusion These findings suggest that combining GFM with NDT significantly enhances spasticity reduction, gait parameters, and functional mobility in stroke patients. Future studies are needed to explore the long-term effects and underlying mechanisms of this combined approach. Clinical trial registration This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov under the identification number NCT06265753.

Pressure knapping west of the Rhine during the Mesolithic? New evidence from Kerkhove (Belgium)

PLoS ONE Hans Vandendriessche, Colas Guéret Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0330662

Until now, evidence for the use of pressure knapping in NW Europe during the Mesolithic has remained very scarce. In this paper, we present the technological (and functional) analysis of a new pressure knapped microbladelet assemblage from the Belgian site of Kerkhove. Attributed to the Middle Mesolithic (between 9525 and 8224 cal. BP), it marks an unexpected early appearance of this technique in the region, that strongly suggests knowledge transmission and contacts with the Maglemosian cultural area from Northern Germany and Southern Scandinavia where this technique was already present at that time. Nevertheless, based on the absolute scarcity of the evidence so far in NW Europe and based on the lack of genetic evidence, we argue that the spread of the pressure knapping technique to NW Europe did not involve large-scale demic diffusion as it was the case with its dispersal into Scandinavia. In Kerkhove, in addition, the limited size of the assemblage and the lack of other tools, cores and knapping waste related to pressure knapping and the lack of refits among the pressure knapped bladelets, indicates that it could have fulfilled a complementary role to the other lithic productions at the site, perhaps related to the (re)tooling of a very specific tool type akin to the slotted bone points/daggers known from the Maglemosian/Kongemosian area and the Baltic region.

First detection of Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever antibodies in cattle and wildlife of southern continental France: Investigation of explanatory factors

PLoS ONE Célia Bernard, Andrea Apolloni, Vladimir Grosbois et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0331875

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne zoonosis of major public health concern, not only because of its potential for severe outcomes in humans, but also due to its endemic presence in many regions and its expanding geographic distribution. We report on the first serological survey conducted in mainland France to detect antibodies against the Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV) in domestic and wild fauna, and provides critical insights into the virus’s circulation. We analyzed 8,609 cattle sera and 2,182 wildlife sera collected across the French Mediterranean region from 2008 to 2022, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and pseudo-plaque reduction neutralization tests (PPRNT) for antibody detection and confirmation. Seropositivity was detected in both cattle (2.04%) and wildlife (2.25%), with higher rates observed in specific regions including the Pyrénées-Orientales and Hautes-Pyrénées. These findings reveal spatial clusters of CCHFV circulation and suggest the existence of enzootic transmission cycles involving local tick vectors and animal hosts. Our multivariate analysis identified key factors that influence seropositivity, including animal age, habitat characteristics, and potential wildlife interactions. The presence of natural open habitats and coniferous forests was significantly associated with higher seropositivity in cattle, while sex and geographical variability played a role in wildlife seroprevalence. These findings highlight the importance of environmental and anthropogenic factors in shaping the dynamics of CCHFV transmission. This work demonstrates that CCHFV is actively circulating in parts of mainland France, emphasizing the need for enhanced surveillance and integrated approaches to monitor zoonotic pathogens. It also raises questions about the role of additional tick vectors, such as Hyalomma lusitanicum, in the transmission cycle. These results advance our understanding of CCHF epidemiology and offer valuable guidance for public health strategies to mitigate the risks associated with this emerging disease.

Knowledge and associated factors of obstetric fistula among antenatal care attendees at Faji Kunda and Farafenni health facilities, The Gambia

PLoS ONE Amadou Bah, Gbolahan Oladele Obajimi, Baboucar Cham et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0331130

An obstetric fistula is an inappropriate communication between the vagina and surrounding tubular organs, usually, the rectum and bladder, resulting in leakage. The World Health Organisation estimates that 50,000–100,000 women worldwide suffer from obstetric fistula each year. In-country literature reveals Gambian women know little about obstetric fistula. No published data existed on antennal women’s perspectives and obstetric fistula knowledge factors. This study examines obstetric fistula knowledge and associated factors among antenatal care attendants at Faji Kunda and Farafenni Health Facilities, The Gambia. A facility analytical cross-sectional study included 385 antenatal care attendees. Study participants were recruited using systematic sampling. Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 24 cleaned and stored the data, while Statistical Software Package (SATA) version 18 analysed it. Tables with percentages showed descriptive data. Parallel multivariate logistic regression and Chi-square were used to determine obstetric fistula knowledge factors. The significance level was p < 0.05 with a 95% CI. Most study participants (37.92%) were 18–23 years old, and 37.4% (n = 144) had no formal schooling. The study found that 24.2% (n = 93) of participants knew adequately about obstetric fistula. Results show a significant association (p < 0.001) between obstetric fistula knowledge and age. Results indicate a strong association (p < 0.001) between obstetric fistula knowledge and education levels. Higher chances are observed for tertiary education attendees [aOR=8.55; p < 0.001; 95% CI (2.83–25.81)]. Awareness of obstetric fistula was substantially linked to occupation, particularly among government personnel [aOR=18.6; p < 0.001; 95% CI (5.29–65.38)]. A higher connection was found among attendees from wealthy backgrounds [aOR=7.41; p < 0.001; 95% CI (2.40–22.84)]. The study participants knew little about obstetric fistulas. According to the study, age, education, income index, and occupation were significantly associated with obstetric fistula knowledge. Therefore, a widespread campaign to promote girls’ education and obstetric fistula awareness is needed.

Reclaiming wellness: Key factors in restoring optimal well-being in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

PLoS ONE Mabel Ho, Esme Fuller-Thomson Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0329800

Background This study examines characteristics of older adults who have regained optimal well-being at the end of the three-year study. The definition of optimal well-being used in this study refers to having adequate social support, high levels of older adults’ subjective perception of their aging process, physical health, mental health, happiness and life satisfaction and being free of limitations in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), disabling pain or discomfort, severe mental illness or cognitive decline in the preceding year. Methods A secondary data analysis was conducted using the first two waves of data from the comprehensive cohort of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA), a large, national, longitudinal study on aging. The sample included 8332 older adults who were not in optimal well-being at baseline and aged 60+ at time 2. Bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were used to examine which baseline characteristics were associated with achieving optimal well-being approximately three years later. Results The prevalence of optimal well-being at time 2 was higher among respondents who, at baseline, were younger, married, physically active, not obese, non-smokers, had higher income, without sleeping problems, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, and achieved at least two of the four wellness domains (i.e., physical, psychological and emotional, social, and self-rated wellness) were more likely to be in optimal well-being at time 2 than their counterparts. Conclusions Old age does not necessarily result in poor physical health, nor is a decline in well-being inevitable. Almost one in four respondents who were in less than optimal well-being at baseline regained well-being over the ensuing approximately 3 years. Further research could investigate the association between policies and programs and their support for older adults in regaining optimal well-being in later life after a period of suboptimal well-being.

Determinants of cervical high-risk human papillomavirus positivity among Rwandan women living with human immunodeficiency virus

PLoS ONE Gad Murenzi, Faustin Kanyabwisha, Maria Demarco et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0333077

Introduction There are few data on the prevalence of cervical high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV), the necessary cause of cervical cancer, and its determinants among Rwandan women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We therefore aimed to assess the determinants of hrHPV positivity among Rwandan women living with HIV (WLWH). Methods We conducted a cervical cancer screening study of ~5,000 WLWH aged 30–54 years and living in Kigali, Rwanda, but originally from all provinces in the country, from 2016–2018. Women were tested for hrHPV by the Xpert assay (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA, USA). A nurse-administered questionnaire collected data on demographics and HPV/cervical cancer risk factors. Women without evidence of cervical precancer and cancer were included in the analysis. Results Women included in this analysis (N = 4,880) had a mean age of 40 years, > 98% were on antiretroviral therapy, and 61% had a CD4 count of ≥500 cells/µL. High-risk HPV prevalence was 25.5% [95% confidence interval (CI)=24.3%−26.8%] and the prevalence decreased with older ages and higher CD4 counts (ptrend<0.001 for both). High-risk HPV prevalence was higher for those who reported their first sex before 16 years, had their first child before 18 years, had more sexual partners over their lifetime and in the last six months, and those with lower CD4 cell count (ptrend<0.001 for all). A CD4 count of <200 (vs. > 500) per µL was most strongly associated with being hrHPV positive (adjusted odds ratio = 2.7, 95%CI = 2.1–3.6). Conclusions Our findings highlight the role of CD4 counts, as a measure of HIV control and immunity, in controlling hrHPV infection, which could potentially impact cervical cancer control among this high-risk population. Raising awareness on various associated factors coupled with integrating HPV and cervical cancer awareness in HIV care could help control this double burden of disease.

Correction: The impact of globalization, renewable energy, and labor on sustainable development: A cross-country analysis

PLoS ONE Huynh Ngoc Chuong, Vo Tran Phuong Uyen, Nguyen Dang Phuong Ngan et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0333199

Three-step optimization based on a multi-model of rural tourism sites

PLoS ONE Qi Li, Mengting Ai, Jing Luo et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0332878

Rural tourism is a vital facet of rural revitalization and balanced urban-rural development efforts. As socio-economic development and policy systems change, the tourism demand market progressively transitions from urban to rural areas. This study, based on ‘quantity-location-capacity’ principles, integrates actual environmental conditions and employs location-allocation and algorithmic models to enhance the accessibility of rural tourism sites in the metropolitan fringe area of Wuhan. The results show: ① Wuhan’s distribution of rural tourism destinations is uneven, with the suburbs demonstrating significantly higher composite accessibility compared to the central urban area; ② Based on this experiment’s results and the costs of optimization, there are eight new potential tourist locations; ③ The disparity in accessibility to Wuhan’s tourist destinations has been reduced, resulting in enhanced tourism efficiency and equity. This study can offer recommendations for rural tourism planning and development strategies and provide references for academic research methods.

Exploring in-vitro antioxidant, cytotoxicity, hemolytic, thrombolytic and anticancer potentials of Ochthochloa compressa (Forssk.) Hilu

PLoS ONE Muhammad Atif, Mirza Imran Shahzad, Muhammad Younus Khan et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0332194

Background Globally, medicinal plants are found therapeutically very effective against many illnesses. Still there is huge demand of plant based alternate medicines in market. The therapeutic potential of many plants is still unexplored. One such medicinal plant is Ochthochloa compressa, a member of family Poaceae commonly located in Cholistan desert of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate some pharmacological properties of plant which include; exploration of cytotoxic, hemolytic, antioxidants, anticancer and thrombolytic phytochemicals from various extracts of O. compressa. Study Design This study includes in-vitro experimental study design. Methodology O. compressa extracts were prepared on the basis of polarity. The extracts were subjected for screening of phytochemicals and determining the total bioactive contents. Each extract was tested for cytotoxicity, hemolytic, antioxidant, thrombolytic and anticancer potential through cytotoxic and cell viability assays; MTT, morphology, crystal violet, trypan blue and scratch. GCMS analysis of each extract was done for identification of phytocompounds. In-silico molecular docking was performed against phytocompounds of EtOAc extract and further studied to visualize interactions between the compounds and coagulation factor XI. Compounds which showed maximum binding affinity were used in ADMET studies. Results The phytochemical screening and GCMS analysis revealed various phytochemicals in plant extracts. HET CAM assay revealed that all extracts were non and/or weak irritant except DCM which was moderately irritant. The least hemolytic activity was observed in all extracts, which proved that the plant is non-toxic, non-hemolytic and safe to use. The extracts showed a good antioxidant potential and order was as; MtOH > Aq > n-Hex > EtOAc > DCM. Promising anticancer potential was observed by extracts of this plant against HepG2 cell line and order of activity was as; n-Hex > MtOH = Aq = DCM > EtOAc. Notably high thrombolytic potential was observed by all extracts especially from EtOAc (96.2 ± 0.88) which was almost equal to Streptokinase (99.3 ± 0.41). Phytocompounds of EtOAc identified by GCMS analysis showed significant binding affinity with coagulation factor XI protein, and upon evaluation of ADMET profile, all compounds followed Lipinski’s rule of five, being suitable for orally administration. Conclusion O. compressa extracts are good source of antioxidant, anticancer and thrombolytic agents. The plant is non-toxic and non-hemolytic as well.

Differences in housing wealth between U.S. military service personnel and the Civilian population—Exploring the role of financial stress

PLoS ONE Eric Olsen, Cäzilia Loibl, Sherman D. Hanna et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0331374

The study investigates whether frequent job-based relocations, which are typical for military service personnel, are correlated with households’ ability to accumulate housing wealth. Specifically, we investigate whether differences in homeownership rates and home equity values exist for two cohorts of military personnel, the older Korea/Vietnam and the younger post-Vietnam cohorts of servicemembers. The study accounts for individual financial stress and expectations about the economy, and controls for a rich set of demographic and socio-economic factors. Data sources are the 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances and the 2021 National Financial Capability Study. Results show that the two cohorts of military households do not differ from civilian households with regard to the home ownership rate. Greater individual financial stress on one hand and more positive economic expectations on the other hand emerge as two opposing, but stress-related factors linked to lower homeownership rates. The Post-Vietnam military personnel cohort is associated with lower home equity values compared to civilian households, but no difference was found between the Korea/Vietnam cohort and civilian households. From a policy perspective, our findings indicate that housing-focused efforts in the military, such as targeted loan products, relocation allowances, financial education and counseling programs, appear to help military households cope with the demands of military career paths and the transition to post-active life. When limiting the sample to homeowners, the data indicate lower housing wealth accumulation among the younger, Post-Vietnam era military households, compared to civilian households. As frequent military moves may prevent these households from building housing wealth while in the service, this group has had less time to accumulate housing wealth, documenting the role of housing tenure length for wealth accumulation for this unique population group.

Isolation, purification, and phenotypic characterization of virulent Klebsiella pneumoniae phages from environmental samples in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A synergistic approach combining spot assay and streak plating

PLoS ONE Assefa Asnakew Abebe, Alemayehu Godana Birhanu, Tesfaye Sisay Tessema Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0331955

Background Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a significant global health threat, necessitating alternative therapies like bacteriophage treatment. Traditional phage isolation methods, such as plaque assays, are resource-intensive and thus limit large-scale screening. This study aimed to isolate and purify phages targeting MDR K. pneumoniae using a combined spot-streak plating method and to compare its efficiency with conventional techniques. Materials and methods A total of 62 environmental samples were screened against two MDR K. pneumoniae isolates using a combined approach: initial phage detection by spot assays followed by streak plate-based purification for isolating pure phage clones. Traditional plaque assays were also performed for comparison. Isolated phages were characterized by performing host range analysis against 45 bacterial isolates and determining their burst size. Additionally, their stability was assessed across various pH and temperature conditions, and single-step growth curve experiments were conducted. Results The combined spot assay and streak plate purification method yielded 22 phages, whereas plaque assays isolated 17 phages. Eight phages with high titers and lytic activity were selected for further analysis. These phages exhibited broad host ranges, with two phages lysing up to 55.5% of tested isolates. Stability assays showed effective lytic activity between pH 5 and 9 and temperatures up to 60°C. Single-step growth curves revealed latent periods ranging from 15 to 40 minutes and burst sizes between 76 and 310 PFU per infected cell. The combined method reduced both the isolation time and resource requirements. Conclusion The integration of spot assays with streak plate-based purification provides an efficient and less resource-intensive method for isolating diverse phages targeting MDR K. pneumoniae. The isolated phages demonstrate promising broad-spectrum lytic activity and physiological stability, supporting their potential use in phage therapy. Recommendation Further genomic characterization is necessary to confirm the strictly lytic nature of these phages and to exclude the presence of undesirable genes. Subsequent studies should focus on in vivo efficacy testing and formulation optimization to facilitate clinical application.

Runway: A novel, forward-screen method of analyzing catwalk gait analysis data

PLoS ONE Dana Creasman, Aileen Anderson Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0325831

Assessing locomotor endpoints is a crucial component of neurotrauma research. One method of measuring locomotor behavior is through gait analysis, where one empirically measures different aspects of animal locomotion. A common tool for performing this analysis is via using the CatWalk kinematic testing apparatus, which utilizes data captured from freely moving animals traversing a tunnel with a transparent walkway, specially lit and filmed from below to create a high-contrast video of paw placement during locomotion. The CatWalk software outputs high dimensional data, which presents an issue when attempting to determine what the sum of the data means in terms of locomotor outcomes. To address this concern, we have developed runway, an R package for the processing, analysis, visualization, and ultimately interpretation of Catwalk data. The runway pipeline uses a novel, forward-screen method for analysis, systematically identifying variables affected by the treatment or intervention in question and analyzes the isolated variables through various methods to pinpoint how animal gait is affected. We explain in detail how runway processes experimental data, and provide a pair of use cases to demonstrate runway’s power as an analytical tool.

Providing psychological support to people impacted by terminal illness: A mixed methods study of hospice staff perceived competence, confidence and training needs

PLoS ONE Fatema Zavery, Sulafa Fakhreddin, Sarah Huibregtse Van Loon et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0331680

Background Psychological distress is common amongst people with a terminal illness. While mental health specialists have a role in assessment and management of those with complex psychological problems, hospice clinicians provide psychological support to most patients and families. Aim To describe current practices relating to the provision of psychological support by hospice clinicians, and to explore perceived competence, confidence and training needs in relation to this aspect of their role. Design We used a parallel mixed methods research design. An online questionnaire consisting of closed and free-text questions was emailed to 273 hospices in the UK and the Republic of Ireland between May and June 2023. Setting/Participants Participants included nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals employed by a hospice. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively using SPSS 27, and free-text data was analysed thematically guided by the framework method. Results 151 hospice staff completed the questionnaire. Most (81%) reported that they regularly screen for psychological distress, but clinical judgement, as opposed to use of a validated screening tool, was most common. Respondents reported confidence and competence in many areas. Overall, 72% strongly agreed they were willing to explore difficult subject matter. However, only 25% strongly agreed they were confident in differentiating level of psychological need, and 36% reported they could not arrange appropriate psychological support when needed. Almost all (95%) agreed that training in psychological support would enhance their practice. Individual and family factors such as denial, communication challenges and family conflict were barriers to providing psychological support. Systemic factors were time constraints, prioritisation of physical symptoms and limited access to mental health specialists. Conclusion Hospice staff report that they are confident in providing basic psychological support. However, there was a desire for further training in this aspect of care. Clearer guidance on referral criteria for specialist psychological support is warranted.

Facilitators and barriers to contraceptive uptake and use: Perspectives of female students in South Africa and lessons for quality provision of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis

PLoS ONE Patience Shamu, Nicola J. Christofides, Saiqa Mullick Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0333270

Young women in South Africa face a dual risk of unplanned pregnancies and HIV infections. The country’s high contraceptive prevalence rate masks underlying challenges affecting the initiation and maintenance of contraceptive use. Options are freely available at public health clinics and most women in the country use long-acting injectable contraceptives. Young women’s experiences of contraceptive services provide a unique opportunity to learn lessons for long-acting HIV Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The paper aims to explore facilitators and barriers to using contraceptives among young female students to inform the delivery of long-acting PrEP. A qualitative study was conducted in one district in Gauteng province of South Africa. We purposively selected female students 18–24 years seeking sexual and reproductive health services (SRH) through fixed or mobile clinics in 2022 on two campuses. We conducted 22 in-depth interviews and five Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data were thematically analysed using NVivo 12 software. Individual-related barriers were mainly related to the side effects of contraceptives. At a family level, mothers sometimes played a supportive role which enabled continued contraceptive use, yet partners’ concerns about side effects were sometimes a barrier. Health systems-related issues included negative health provider attitudes and unfavourable opening hours. Accessing contraceptives over holidays when students travelled was a challenge. Long-acting injectable PrEP may be compatible with injectable contraceptives and could provide an opportunity to align visits. Training service providers on the importance of detailed information on side effects will be crucial. Promoting PrEP among mothers and partners could increase support for continued PrEP use. These lessons can be applied to delivering new long-acting HIV PrEP products near the market.

The function of Anr in the differential effects of oxygen levels on biofilm development and nitrogenase performance in Pseudomonas stutzeri A1501

PLoS ONE Noureen Rasheed, Xize Ali, Shahab -ud-din et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0333183

Pseudomonas stutzeri A1501 exhibits a rare and notable trait: nitrogenase activity, which functions under microaerophilic conditions with limited oxygen availability. Optimal biofilm formation occurs in minimal media under nitrogen-depleted conditions. Anr is a transcription regulator with a widespread influence that accelerates the process of biofilm development. The lack of Anr adversely affects nitrogen fixation by regulating the activity of nifA, nifH, and ntrC. The anr insertion mutant significantly reduced the nitrogenase activity. Nitrogenase activity demonstrated considerable variation at different oxygen concentrations. The quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) demonstrated a reduction in the expression of nif island genes during nitrogen fixation in the absence of anr gene. The discovery revealed that different oxygen levels in the environment significantly influence nitrogenase activity and biofilm formation. The qRT-PCR investigation demonstrated an upregulation of narL gene expression during biofilm formation, suggesting that reduced oxygen levels initiate a signaling cascade that activates the anr gene. This influences both the expression of RpoS (sigma factor) genes and the process of biofilm formation.

Understanding and mitigating the impact of ambient mRNA contamination in single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis

PLoS ONE Jantarika Kumar Arora, Louisa K. James, Varodom Charoensawan Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0332440

Droplet-based single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) frequently encounters significant challenges from contamination of cell-free mRNAs, known as “ambient mRNAs”, which can substantially distort single-cell transcriptome data interpretation to a large extent. In this study, we investigate the impact of ambient mRNA contamination on differential gene expression and biological pathway enrichment analyses, using two independent scRNA-seq datasets: ten peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) samples from dengue-infected patients and forty-two scRNA-seq samples of human fetal liver tissues. We apply two independent ambient mRNA correction approaches – CellBender (automate correction) and SoupX (using a predefined set of potential ambient mRNA genes). We demonstrate that ambient mRNA transcripts appear among differentially expressed genes (DEGs), subsequently leading to the identification of significant ambient-related biological pathways in unexpected cell subpopulations before ambient mRNA contamination correction. In contrast, after suitable correction, we observe a reduction in ambient mRNA expression levels, resulting in improved DEG identification and leading to the highlight of biologically relevant pathways specific to cell subpopulations. Our study underscores the importance of understanding and applying appropriate corrections for ambient mRNA contamination to enhance the reliability and accuracy of scRNA-seq data analyses, thereby improving the robustness of data interpretation in droplet-based scRNA-seq datasets.

Organic acid-mediated phosphorus mobilization in black soils: differential effects of maize root exudates on alfisols and mollisols in Northeast China

PLoS ONE Wenzhi Zhao, Yuan Zhang, Xu Xie et al. Sep 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0333230

Soil phosphorus exists in various forms, but only minimal soluble phosphorus is bioavailable. While phosphate fertilizers address deficiency, low efficiency leads to insoluble phosphate accumulation, wasting resources. Enhancing phosphorus availability by converting non-available forms is a critical research priority. Under phosphorus-deficient conditions, plants enhance soil phosphorus availability by secreting organic acids. This study aims to explore phosphorus activation in Alfisol and Mollisol soils through maize root-secreted organic acids. Semi-hydroponic maize cultivation under low/medium/high phosphorus levels and sterilized soil (Alfisol/Mollisol) incubation with root-secreted organic acids (0.5–2%). Exudates analyzed via UHPLC-MS/MS; soil phosphorus dynamics monitored over 60 days. Under phosphorus limitation, maize root exudates showed marked increases in malic, citric, tartaric, and trans-aconitic acids. Soil incubation revealed peak phosphorus release during 0–20 d, with Alfisol exhibiting 95.8% (tartaric), 91.1% (citric), 81.8% (malic), and 67.7% (trans-aconitic) increases in available phosphorus, while Mollisol showed 94.0%, 119.6%, 83.1%, and 75.2% increments, respectively. Tartaric and citric acids outperformed others, boosting H2O-P and NaHCO3-Pi, whereas malic and trans-aconitic acids mainly elevated NaHCO3-Pi. Fractionation analysis highlighted distinct mechanisms: citric acid primarily mobilizes HCl-P; malic acid mainly targets NaOH-Pi and HCl-P; tartaric acid mobilizes NaOH-Po, HCl-P, and NaOH-Pi; while trans-aconitic acid influences NaOH-Po, HCl-P, and Res-P. These findings demonstrate acid-specific phosphorus pool mobilization, identifying tartaric and citric acids as most effective, supporting optimized phosphorus management strategies in black soils.