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Therapeutic effects of lomerizine on vasculopathy in Fabry disease

Dynamics of DNA Repair by Class-II Photolyases via a Unified Electron-Transfer Bifurcating Mechanism

Cranial morphology reveals a lack of phylogenetic signal and rapid adaptive radiation in the bat genus Molossus (Chiroptera: Molossidae)

The 16 species of Molossus (Chiroptera: Molossidae) are distributed throughout the Neotropical region and can be classified into two groups: one consisting of morphologically similar yet phylogenetically divergent species, and another of morphologically distinct but closely related species. This dynamic has led to frequent revisions in the systematics and taxonomy of this genus. This study aimed to analyze patterns of diversification in cranial shape and size within Molossus species using geometric morphometrics (GM), integrating genetic and morphological data. A total of 299 specimens from ten Molossus species widely distributed across the Neotropics were examined, focusing on cranial size, shape diversity, and evolution, and correlating these findings with mitochondrial DNA-based phylogenetic data. Integrated morphometric and phylogenetic analyses revealed a complex evolutionary history within Molossus, with most speciation events occurring during the Pleistocene, suggesting a recent rapid adaptive radiation. GM analyses demonstrated patterns of divergence in cranial size with shape conservatism, and these traits were not significantly related to phylogeny. The data indicate that phylogenetic relationships have limited influence on cranial morphology due to the lack of a strong phylogenetic signal, suggesting that ecological factors, such as diet and habitat, have played central roles in the diversification of Molossus.

An innovative model based on machine learning and fuzzy logic for tracking lower limb exercises in stroke patients

Abstract Rehabilitation after a stroke is vital for regaining functional abilities. However, a shortage of rehabilitation professionals leads to many patients with severe disabilities. Traditional rehabilitation methods can be time-consuming and hard to measure for progress. This study introduces an innovative machine learning (ML) approach for lower limb rehabilitation in stroke patients. The proposed methodology integrates two models: a fuzzy logic rule-based system and a K-Nearest Neighbor(K-NN) machine learning model. The rule-based model utilizes the Fugl-Meyer Assessment to evaluate lower limb angles during exercises using a camera without human intervention. The hybrid fuzzy logic-based ML model continuously tracks the desired angle, counts exercise repetitions, and provides real-time feedback on patient progress. Furthermore, it measures the Range of Motion (ROM) for each repetition, presenting a graphical visualization of ROMs for ten repetitions simultaneously. The model facilitates real-time evaluation of rehabilitation progress by clinicians, with the lowest observed error rate of $$0.34^\circ$$ of angle measurement. The K-NN model assesses rehabilitation exercise accuracy levels, presenting results graphically, with machine learning accuracy rates of $$97\%$$ , $$92\%$$ , and $$91\%$$ for hip flexion, hip external rotation, and knee extension rehabilitation exercises. Model training utilized data from 30 experienced physical therapists at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, garnering positive evaluations from rehabilitation doctors. The proposed ML-based models offer real-time and prerecorded video capabilities, enabling telerehabilitation applications. This research highlights the potential of ML-based methodologies in stroke rehabilitation to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

Correction: Creating a diagnostic assessment model for autism spectrum disorder by differentiating lexicogrammatical choices through machine learning

Dynamical diversity of FWM-induced pulsating solitons in an ultrafast fiber laser

A qPCR assay for the detection of Phytophthora abietivora, an emerging pathogen on fir species cultivated as Christmas trees

Emerging species of the Phytophthora genus are among the most important threats to global plant biodiversity, horticulture and trade. For instance, Phytophthora root rot (PRR) of Christmas trees, mainly Fraser (Abies fraseri) and balsam (Abies balsamea) firs, is responsible for an average of 10% of the observed diseased trees in plantations. Diagnosing PRR involves isolation followed by morphological and molecular identification of the causal agents. However, these methods are rarely adapted to larger scale monitoring such as in situ detection. For these applications, molecular detection of environmental DNA (eDNA) provides the fast and high-throughput results needed. Phytophthora abietivora was associated with PRR in firs (Abies spp.) cultivated as Christmas trees in the province of Québec (Canada). This study focused on developing a sensitive and specific qPCR assay targeting P. abietivora and validating its efficiency on DNA extracted from soil and roots. A set of primers and probe was designed for this assay, and parameters such as the limit of detection (LOD95%) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were measured. The assay was tested on DNA obtained from healthy-looking and PRR symptomatic Fraser and balsam firs. The assay was shown to be semi-specific because it cross-reacted with P. europaea and three other phylogenetically close species, but deemed specific in the context of PRR of firs. The LOD95% was estimated at 10 copies per reaction (Cq of 35.7) and the LOQ to 33 P. abietivora oospores per gram of soil. Out of 488 DNA samples from soil, 68 were positive for P. abietivora from which 42 (61.7%) were from PRR symptomatic trees. Only a slight overlap (3 out of 7 samples) was observed with previously obtained baiting results. This assay will be useful for rapid diagnostics of P. abietivora infected trees and as a prospecting tool to better characterize the natural distribution and dissemination of the disease.

An ACE2-Fc decoy produced in glycoengineered plants neutralizes ancestral and newly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and demonstrates therapeutic efficacy in hamsters

Abstract Newly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) continue to drive COVID-19 waves and are typically associated with immune escape and increased resistance to current therapeutics including monoclonal antibodies. By contrast, VOCs still display strong binding to the host cell receptor ACE2. Consistent with these properties, we have now found that a soluble ACE2-Fc decoy produced in glycoengineered plants effectively neutralizes different SARS-CoV-2 isolates and exhibits even increased potency against VOCs as compared to an ancestral virus strain. In a golden Syrian hamster model, therapeutic intranasal delivery of ACE2-Fc effectively reduced weight loss and SARS-CoV-2 replication in the lungs when administered 24 h post-inoculation. This protective effect was not observed upon treatment of the infected animals with a non-binding ACE2-Fc mutant, demonstrating that the plant-derived ACE2-Fc decoy interferes specifically with the attachment of the virus to host cells. The results obtained provide support for further development of decoy-based antiviral approaches by plant molecular pharming.

Anodized Aluminum Oxide Membrane Ionic Memristors

Improvements in health-related quality of life are maintained long-term in patients prescribed medicinal cannabis in Australia: The QUEST Initiative 12-month follow-up observational study

Aims Since 2016, more than one million new patients with chronic health conditions have been prescribed medicinal cannabis in Australia. We aimed to assess overall health-related quality of life (HRQL), pain, fatigue, sleep, anxiety, depression, and motor function in a large real-world sample of patients prescribed medicinal cannabis. We previously found all patient-reported outcomes improved in the first 3-months and hypothesised that improvements would be maintained to 12-months. Methods The QUEST Initiative, a multicentre prospective study, recruited adult patients with any chronic health condition newly prescribed medicinal cannabis oil between November 2020 and December 2021. Participants identified by 114 clinicians across Australia completed validated questionnaires at baseline, then 2-weeks titration, and 1-,2-,3-,5-,7-,9- and 12-months follow-up. Results Of 2744 consenting participants who completed baseline assessments, 2353 also completed at least one follow-up questionnaire and were included in analyses, with completion rates declining to 778/2353 (38%) at 12-months. Ages ranged between 18–97 years (mean 50.4y; SD = 15.4), 62.8% were female. Chronic conditions commonly treated included musculoskeletal pain (n = 896/2353; 38.1%), neuropathic pain (n = 547/2353; 23.2%), insomnia (n = 546/2353; 23.2%), anxiety (n = 520/2353; 22.1%), and mixed depressive and anxiety disorder (n = 263/2353; 11.2%). Clinically meaningful improvements were observed in HRQL: EQ-5D-5L index (d = 0.52) and QLQ-C30 summary scores (d = 0.91), PROMIS fatigue (d = 0.51) and sleep disturbance (d = 0.76). Participants diagnosed with chronic pain experienced clinically meaningful improvement in scores on QLQ-C30 pain (d = 0.5), PROMIS pain intensity (d = 0.76), and PROMIS pain interference (d = 0.76). There was significant improvement in DASS anxiety (d = 0.69) and DASS depression (d = 0.65) for those with anxiety or depressive conditions, but no motor function improvements observed for participants with movement disorders. All observed improvements were statistically significant. Conclusions Statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in overall HRQL, fatigue, and sleep disturbance were maintained over 12-months in patients prescribed medical cannabis for chronic health conditions. Anxiety, depression, insomnia, and pain also improved over time for those with corresponding health conditions. Study registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12621000063819

Development and indirect validation of a model predicting frailty in the French healthcare claims database

Organic Ionic Host–Guest Phosphor with Dual-Confined Nonradiation for Constructing Ultrahigh-Temperature X-ray Scintillator

PM2.5 from automobile exhaust induces apoptosis in male rat germ cells via the ROS-UPR mt signaling pathway

Objective To explore the underlying mechanism behind the fine particulate matter’s (PM2.5)-mediated regulation of reproductive function in male rats, and to determine the role of vitamins in this process. Methods In all, 32 male SD rats were randomized to a control cohort (normal saline), a Vit cohort (vitamin C at 100 mg/kg +  vitamin E at 50 mg/kg), a PM2.5 cohort (PM2.5 10 mg/kg), and a PM2.5 + Vit cohort (PM2.5 exposure +  vitamin C at 100 mg/kg +  vitamin E at 50 mg/kg), with eight rats in each cohort. After four weeks of exposure, mating experiments were carried out. Thereafter, rats were euthanized, and the testis and epididymis tissues were excised for hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and sperm quality analysis. Apoptosis of testis tissues was quantified via a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Moreover, the testicular oxidative stress (OS)-, apoptosis- and mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt)-related essential protein expressions were measured via western blotting (WB). Results After PM2.5 exposure, the sperm count and motility decreased, while sperm abnormality and the apoptosis index increased. HE staining showed that the number of spermatogenic cells decreased. WB showed that the PM2.5 group had decreased expressions of superoxide dismutase (SOD), nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) (p <  0.05), increased expressions of malondialdehyde (MDA), Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax), and Caspase3 (p <  0.05), and downregulated expressions of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), and activating transcription factor 5 (ATF5) (p <  0.05). These were all reversed by vitamin intervention. Conclusion PM2.5 from automobile exhaust disrupts male reproductive function. A combination of vitamins may protect reproductive function via the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-UPRmt signaling pathway.

Filtering dynamics of an interference comb filter in a ytterbium-doped mode-locked fiber laser

“You take care of people, people will take care of you”: Moral Economies and an Unpredictable Drug Market

Introduction Fentanyl is the leading cause of opioid-related overdose deaths in the United States. Given the exogenous market shock of fentanyl and subsequent transition in the illicit opioid supply, our analysis sought to explore the social and relational experiences of people who use opioids (PWUO). Methods We conducted qualitative interviews with 30 PWUO (n = 30) in Los Angeles, CA from July 2021 to April 2022. To be eligible for this study, participants had to report being 18 years of age or older and any self-reported opioid, cannabis, and injection drug use within the past 30 days. We used constructivist grounded theory to analyze the contexts that contribute to lived experiences surrounding opioid use behaviors within social networks. Results Within an unpredictable drug market contaminated by fentanyl, participants reported: 1) avoiding opioid withdrawal symptoms by sharing financial and material resources within social networks, 2) securing and cultivating known, predictable social ties to prioritize safe/ safer supply of opioids, and 3) avoiding and mitigating risk of overdose fatality by using opioids within peer groups. Conclusions Our findings emphasize that while peer support plays a critical role in safety within moral economies of PWUO, structural changes are needed to address the additional harms from an unregulated drug supply. Harm reduction interventions such as fentanyl test strip and naloxone distribution, as well as medication for opioid use disorders may improve safety. However, with a fentanyl-contaminated drug supply increasing risk for PWUO, safer opioid distribution of pharmaceutical-grade opioids and overdose prevention programs are needed to effectively address the burden of withdrawal, overdose, and fatality prevention within peer groups.

Whole-exome sequencing screening for candidate genes and potential pathogenic variants associated with early-onset high myopia in 47 Chinese families

High-Connectivity Triazolate-Based Metal–Organic Framework for Water Harvesting

Exploring the physical, mental, and social dimensions of middle-aged adults for active and healthy aging: A cross-sectional study

Introduction Population ageing presents a significant global challenge, necessitating sustained efforts to promote active and healthy ageing throughout life to improve quality of life in later years. This study aims to characterise the physical, mental, and social well-being of middle-aged adults (aged 55–64) in Baixo Alentejo, Portugal, and to analyse associations between these dimensions and sociodemographic variables. The findings aim to inform policies and interventions supporting active and healthy ageing, a cornerstone for quality longevity. Methodology This cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted between 02 May 2023 and 29 February 2024 among individuals aged 55–64 registered at health centres in Baixo Alentejo, Portugal. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire evaluating disability, depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and satisfaction with social support. Instruments included the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0-PT12), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), a self-reported life satisfaction score, and the Social Support Satisfaction Scale (SSSS). Statistical analysis employed Student’s t-test and one-way ANOVA. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants provided informed consent. Results The study included 698 participants. Women, individuals with lower educational attainment, and the unemployed demonstrated significantly higher functional disability scores. Women and unemployed participants also had higher depressive symptom scores. Conversely, men reported greater life satisfaction. Older participants and those with lower socioeconomic status exhibited greater physical limitations, depressive symptoms, and dissatisfaction with social support. Economic stability was positively associated with mental well-being and life satisfaction, underscoring the importance of financial security in enhancing perceptions of social support. Conclusion This study provides a comprehensive characterisation of middle-aged adults in Baixo Alentejo, revealing significant associations between sociodemographic factors and physical, mental, and social well-being. The findings highlight the need for tailored socioeconomic and health interventions to promote active and healthy ageing. Public policies designed to address the unique needs of middle-aged adults in the region are critical to improving health outcomes and fostering quality longevity.

The association between low-concentration heavy metal exposure and chronic kidney disease risk through α-klotho

Correction to “Unravelling Size-Dependent Upconversion Luminescence in Ytterbium and Erbium Codoped NaYF₄ Nanocrystals”