Browse Articles

Direct identification of Ac and No molecules with an atom-at-a-time technique

Eating ultra-processed foods could make it harder to lose weight

India to penalize universities with too many retractions

mRNA vaccines for HIV trigger strong immune response in people

Google AI model mines trillions of images to create maps of Earth ‘at any place and time’

Loss of colonic fidelity enables multilineage plasticity and metastasis

Abstract Cancer cell plasticity enables the acquisition of new phenotypic features and is implicated as a major driver of metastatic progression1,2. Metastasis occurs mostly in the absence of additional genetic alterations3–5, which suggests that epigenetic mechanisms are important6. However, they remain poorly defined. Here we identify the chromatin-remodelling enzyme ATRX as a key regulator of colonic lineage fidelity and metastasis in colorectal cancer. Atrx loss promotes tumour invasion and metastasis, concomitant with a loss of colonic epithelial identity and the emergence of highly plastic mesenchymal and squamous-like cell states. Combined analysis of chromatin accessibility and enhancer mapping identified impairment of activity of the colonic lineage-specifying transcription factor HNF4A as a key mediator of these observed phenotypes. We identify squamous-like cells in human patient samples and a squamous-like expression signature that correlates with aggressive disease and poor patient prognosis. Collectively, our study defines the epigenetic maintenance of colonic epithelial identity by ATRX and HNF4A as suppressors of lineage plasticity and metastasis in colorectal cancer.

Author Correction: Spatial immune scoring system predicts hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence

Extreme river flood exposes latent erosion risk

Abstract Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and magnitude of river floods 1 . Floods not only cause damage by inundation and loss of life 2,3 but also jeopardize infrastructure because of bank failure and riverbed erosion processes that are poorly understood. Common flood safety programmes include dyke reinforcement and river widening 4–9 . The 2021 flood in the Meuse Basin caused 43 fatalities and billions of dollars of damage to infrastructure 10 . Here, on the basis of analysis of the Meuse flood, we show how uneven widening of the river and heterogeneity of sediment deposits under the river can cause massive erosion. A recent flood safety programme widened the river 11 , but created bottlenecks where widening was either prevented by infrastructure or not yet implemented. Riverbed erosion was exacerbated by tectonic uplift that had produced a thin top gravel layer above fine-grained sediment. Greatly enhanced flow velocities produced underwater dunes with troughs that broke through the gravel armour in the bottlenecks, exposing easily erodible sands, resulting in extreme scour holes, one more than 15 m deep. Our investigation highlights the challenges of re-engineering rivers in the face of climate change, increased flood risks and competition for river widening space, and calls for a better understanding of the subsurface.

‘Sleeping’ cancer cells in the lungs can be roused by COVID and flu

Steel surface defect segmentation with SME-DeeplabV3+

Accurate segmentation of steel surface defects is crucial for ensuring steel quality. This paper presents a steel surface defect segmentation method based on SME-DeepLabV3+ to improve the accuracy and efficiency of segmentation. First, StarNet is adopted as the backbone network, whose unique star operation can achieve efficient transformation from low-dimensional space to high-dimensional features, enhancing the model’s ability to capture steel defect features and accurately distinguish between normal and defective areas. Second, the ELA module is introduced, which is based on an efficient local attention mechanism and uses different sizes of convolution kernels for multiscale analysis of feature maps. During training, it adaptively initializes the weights of convolutional layers and introduces a dynamic threshold adjustment mechanism to adjust thresholds in real time according to the defect conditions of training batches, reducing missed detections and false positives. Finally, we integrate the MSAA module from CM-UNet, whose multiscale attention mechanism can dynamically adjust attention allocation based on defect size, avoiding detection omissions or misjudgements caused by size differences. The experimental results show that the improved model performs excellently in steel surface defect segmentation tasks, significantly improving accuracy and efficiency compared with traditional methods. The mIoU, precision, and MPA evaluation metrics increased by 1.65%, 2.19%, and 0.36%, respectively, providing more effective technical support for steel quality inspection. The combination of StarNet with the MSAA and ELA modules effectively enhances the performance of semantic segmentation models in steel defect detection while reducing computational resource requirements. The code is available at https://github.com/Eric-863/SME-main/tree/main.

Analysis of adverse drug reactions in 507 cases of Tislelizumab: A real-world retrospective study based on data from Guangxi, China

Objective To analyze the real-world characteristics and patterns of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with tislelizumab, providing valuable insights for clinical practice. Methods We conducted a comprehensive analysis of tislelizumab-related ADR reports within the pharmacovigilance system of Guangxi, China, spanning from 01/04/2021–31/08/2024. Our analysis focused on population characteristics, temporal distribution of ADR occurrences, system organ classes (SOCs) of serious adverse drug reactions (SADRs), profiles of major SOCs, and factors influencing SADRs and blood and lymphatic system disorders (BLSDs). Results This study analyzed 507 tislelizumab ADR reports (698 events), including 282 SADRs (356 events), with no deaths reported. Pharmacists were the primary reporters (60.55% of reports). Most patients were aged 46–75 years (77.32%), male (72.58%), and of Han ethnicity (75.54%), and 1.78% (9/507) were of Zhuang ethnicity. A total of 86.19% of ADRs occurred within 30 days of medication. Among the SADRs, there were 83 PTs and 17 SOCs, with the most common SOCs being blood and lymphatic system disorders (15.47%, 108/698), investigations (14.90%, 104/698), hepatobiliary disorders (4.15%, 29/698), and skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders (3.15%, 22/698). Logistic regression analysis showed that chemotherapy was a significant risk factor for SADRs (OR = 4.634, 95%CI: 2.871–7.917, P < 0.001). The risk of BLSDs - related ADRs was 5.545 times higher in the chemotherapy-incorporating group than in the monotherapy group (95%CI: 3.423–8.701, P < 0.001). Conclusions Close monitoring, particularly in patients receiving chemotherapy-incorporating regimens, is crucial during the first 30 days post-tislelizumab treatment to manage SADR risks. Proactive measures should be implemented if SADR occur.

Cannabidiol improves learning and memory deficits and alleviates anxiety in 12-month-old SAMP8 mice

Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained a lot of interest in recent years for its purported medicinal properties. CBD has been investigated for the treatment of anxiety, depression, epilepsy, neuroinflammation, and pain. Recently there has been an interest in CBD as a possible treatment for age-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (ADRD). Here we tested the hypothesis that chronic CBD administration would improve learning and memory in the SAMP8 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. SAMP8 mice aged 11 months (at the start of the study) were administered vehicle or CBD (3 or 30 mg/Kg) daily via oral gavage for 2 months. Vehicle-treated young SAMP8 mice (age 3 months at the start of the study) served as unimpaired controls. After 30 days of treatment (4 and 12 months of age), learning and memory, activity, anxiety, strength and dexterity were assessed. High dose CBD treatment significantly improved learning and memory of the 12-month-old mice in the T maze. Novel object recognition memory was also improved by CBD in aged CBD treated mice. Aged CBD treated mice also displayed less anxiety in the elevated plus maze test compared to controls. However, activity and strength levels were similar between groups. Biochemical analysis revealed decreased markers of oxidative stress, providing a possible mechanism by which CBD treatment impacts learning, memory, and anxiety. These results highlight the potential use of CBD as a therapeutic for age related cognitive impairment and dementia.

Numerical simulation and field experiment study of the supersonic gas jet subsoiler based on DEM

To tackle the challenges of high draft resistance, limited subsoiling range, and ineffective subsoiling results in conventional subsoiling methods, this study combines the structure of an air cannon with that of a wing-type subsoiler to design a novel pneumatic blast subsoiling device. First, soil bin experiments were conducted to verify the feasibility of using the air cannon for pneumatic soil fracturing. A soil model was created in EDEM (Engineering Discrete Element Method)based on field conditions to analyze the subsoiler’s force distribution, ensuring the nozzle remains undeformed and the subsoiling process runs smoothly. Subsequent field experiments were conducted to evaluate the subsoiling effect under different working depths, speeds, and air pressures. The experimental results show that, compared with the conventional airfoil-shaped subsoiler, the supersonic gas jet subsoiler achieves optimal performance at a tillage speed of 0.5 m/s and a tillage depth of 380 mm. Under these conditions, the maximum drag reduction rate reaches 16.66%, and the soil disturbance area increases by up to 22.48%, significantly enhancing the drag reduction effect and soil fragmentation efficiency during subsoiling operations. Furthermore, the subsoiling effect was further improved as the working speed decreased and the frequency of air blasts increased, satisfying the subsoiling operation assessment standards. In conclusion, this study offers design insights for the development of innovative agricultural soil cultivation tools by identifying a more efficient new research approach in addition to conventional subsoiling techniques for lowering resistance and energy consumption.

Flow similarity model predicts allometric relationships among Acer platanoides L. branches

Using physical models to predict patterns of plant growth has been a long-standing goal for biologists. Most approaches invoke either thermodynamic, biomechanical or hydraulic principles and assume the mechanism of interest applies similarly throughout the plant branching architecture. A recent effort, the flow similarity model, predicts numerous aspects of branching physiology and morphology and argues that the physiological constraints experienced by plants change as a function of branch order and size, with more basal portions satisfying more biomechanical constraints, and more distal portions, hydraulic ones. Distal branches are expected to have a strong influence on allometric relationships within plants due to their numerical abundance. Here we evaluate the predictions of the flow similarity model and a well-known alternative fractal branching model, using data on the dimensions of 3,484 individual stem internodes across four individual Acer platanoides trees. Overall, we find strong agreement between model predictions and the allometric exponents describing tree branch allometry. Further the predicted curvature in allometric relationships is found in all 24 cases examined and the frequency distributions of branch lengths and diameters are consistent with model expectations in 6/8 cases. We also find the area ratios are consistent with the model assumption of area-preserving branching. Collectively, our data and analysis provide strong support for the flow similarity model, and identifies several areas in need of subsequent inquiry.

Activated human B cells produce phospholipase D4-containing extracellular vesicles

Phospholipase D4 (PLD4) is an intracellular exonuclease implicated in immune regulation via nucleic acid degradation. While public proteomic databases indicate the presence of PLD4 in human plasma, its mode of extracellular release remains unclear. This study demonstrates that activated B cells secrete PLD4-containing extracellular vesicles (EVs), providing a novel mechanism for its extracellular presence. EVs were purified from human plasma and confirmed to contain PLD4 through immunoelectron microscopy (IEM), Western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To further investigate the cellular origin, human B cells were stimulated in vitro with B cell receptor engagement and TLR9 agonist. Light and electron microscopy revealed significant cellular hypertrophy and accumulation of multivesicular bodies following stimulation. Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) confirmed an increase in EV secretion, and IEM demonstrated a higher frequency of PLD4-positive EVs in stimulated B cells. Additionally, immunofluorescence and IEM revealed that PLD4 relocates from the Golgi apparatus to CD63-positive endosomes, where it is incorporated into intraluminal vesicles prior to EV release. These findings establish that activated B cells contribute to the extracellular distribution of PLD4 via EV secretion, highlighting a potential role in intercellular communication and immune regulation.

Spatial patterns and predictors of antenatal care interruption in war-torn Tigray, northern Ethiopia: Spatial modelling approach

Introduction Antenatal care (ANC) is vital for maternal health, yet its provision has been severely disrupted in conflict-affected Tigray, Ethiopia. This study employs a community-based approach to analyze the spatial patterns and predictors of ANC interruption in conflict-affected, Tigray region, northern Ethiopia. Methods and materials A cross-sectional design was used, to select 2,444 eligible women from 13,915 women of reproductive age across from six zones and 57 clusters. Multistage cluster sampling was employed to approach the study participants. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, and geographic coordinates were obtained for spatial geo-points. A spatial logistic regression model was used to assess the effects of geographic and socio-demographic factors on ANC interruptions, accounting for spatial dependencies. Results The prevalence of ANC interruption was24.8% (n = 605, 95% CI: 23.1%, 26.5%). Each additional minute of travel increased the log-odds of interruption by 0.000353 (SE = 0.0001, p < 0.001. Geographic zone significantly influenced ANC interruptions, with women in the southeast and eastern zones experiencing lower log-odds compared to the northwest zone. Moreover, having more under- five children raised the log-odds of ANC interruption by 0.083 (SE = 0.01, p < 0.001). Households without a radio had a 0.089 lower log-odds of ANC interruption (SE = 0.033425, p = 0.007), highlighting the importance of access to information. The war’s impact was significant, with 96.5% (2,358, 95% CI: [95.4%, 97.6%]) reporting a family member was disabled; of these, 72.7% (1,778, 95% CI: [71.0%, 74.4%]) did not postpone their ANC visit, while 23.7% (580, 95% CI: [22.2%, 25.2%]) did. Conclusions The findings revealed a significant ANC interruption in Tigray, influenced by geographic disparities, household dynamics, and information access. Improving infrastructure and security, implementing targeted interventions, enhancing mass media health information dissemination, and further research on geographic disparities are essential.

Repurposing haemoproteins for asymmetric metal-catalysed H atom transfer

RPIPLM: Prediction of ncRNA-protein interaction by post-training a dual-tower pretrained biological model with supervised contrastive learning

The field of biological research has been profoundly impacted by the emergence of biological pre-trained models, which have resulted in remarkable advancements in life sciences and medicine. However, the current landscape of biological pre-trained language models suffers from a shortcoming, i.e., their inability to grasp the intricacies of molecular interactions, such as ncRNA-protein interactions. It is in this context that our paper introduces a two-tower computational framework, termed RPIPLM, which brings forth a new paradigm for the prediction of ncRNA-protein interactions. The core of RPIPLM lies in its harnessing of the pre-trained RNA language model and protein language model to process ncRNA and protein sequences, thereby enabling the transfer of the general knowledge gained from self-supervised learning of vast data to ncRNA-protein interaction tasks. Additionally, to learn the intricate interaction patterns between RNA and protein embeddings across diverse scales, we employ a fusion of scaled dot-product self-attention mechanism and Multi-scale convolution operations on the output of the dual-tower architecture, effectively capturing both global and local information. Furthermore, we introduce supervised contrastive learning into the training of RPIPLM, enabling the model to effectively capture discriminative information by distinguishing between interacting and non-interacting samples in the learned representations. Through extensive experiments and an interpretability study, we demonstrate the effectiveness of RPIPLM and its superiority over other methods, establishing new state-of-the-art performance. RPIPLM is a powerful and scalable computational framework that holds the potential to unlock enormous insights from vast biological data, thereby accelerating the discovery of molecular interactions.

The current status and determinants of perceived ageism among community-dwelling older adults: A cross-sectional, multifactorial analysis

Objective To investigate the prevalence of perceived ageism among community-dwelling older adults and systematically analyze its determinants, thereby providing a reference for the management of mental health in this population. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted from April 15–30, 2025, in 45 communities in Zigong City, Sichuan Province, China. A total of 500 questionnaires were distributed, and 484 valid responses were collected. The survey included a general information questionnaire and the Perceived Ageism Questionnaire (PAQ). LASSO (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator) regression and multiple linear regression analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with perceived ageism. Results The mean score on the Perceived Ageism Questionnaire was 16.68 ± 3.70. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that educational level, vision status, and hearing function were significantly associated with perceived ageism among community-dwelling older adults. Conclusion Perceived ageism among community-dwelling older adults is at a moderate level. Healthcare providers should develop targeted interventions based on these determinants to enhance mental health and well-being in this population.

Superoxide dismutase VPA1514 in Vibrio parahaemolyticus protects against environmental stresses

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a foodborne enteropathogen that has become a global concern since the emergence of the pandemic O3:K6 strain in 1996. Three putative superoxide dismutases (SODs), namely FeSOD (VP2118), MnSOD (VP2860) and CuZnSOD (VPA1514), are found in V. parahaemolyticus . In this study, the VPA1514 mutant and gene complementary strains of V. parahaemolyticus were constructed to investigate the function of VPA1514 against environmental stresses. The growth of the VPA1514 mutant strain in broth medium under sublethal stress of H 2 O 2 was significantly slowed relative to that of the wild-type strain. The survival rate of this VPA1514 mutant strain, when challenged by lethal acetic acid for two hours, was significantly lower than that of the wild-type strain. Moreover, the presence of the complementary VPA1514 gene significantly ameliorated the survival of this V. parahaemolyticus mutant strain. VPA1514 also showed the effect on the survival of a SOD mutant strain of Escherichia coli against acetic acid. In summary, this study demonstrated that VPA1514 protects against exogenous H 2 O 2 and the lethal concentrations of acetic acid in V. parahaemolyticus .