Browse Articles
Discover research articles across all indexed journals
Author Correction: Optimal planning and sizing of microgrid cluster for performance enhancement
A μGal MOEMS gravimeter designed with free-form anti-springs
The relationship between body mass index and pathological complete response in Brazilian breast cancer patients
Calcium levels in ASER neurons determine behavioral valence by engaging distinct neuronal circuits in C. elegans
Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in severe COVID-19 - a retrospective cohort study
Molecular basis of foreign DNA recognition by BREX anti-phage immunity system
Abstract Anti-phage systems of the BREX (BacteRiophage EXclusion) superfamily rely on site-specific epigenetic DNA methylation to discriminate between the host and invading DNA. We demonstrate that in Type I BREX systems, defense and methylation require BREX site DNA binding by the BrxX (PglX) methyltransferase employing S-adenosyl methionine as a cofactor. We determined 2.2-Å cryoEM structure of Escherichia coli BrxX bound to target dsDNA revealing molecular details of BREX DNA recognition. Structure-guided engineering of BrxX expands its DNA specificity and dramatically enhances phage defense. We show that BrxX alone does not methylate DNA, and BREX activity requires an assembly of a supramolecular BrxBCXZ immune complex. Finally, we present a cryoEM structure of BrxX bound to a phage-encoded inhibitor Ocr that sequesters BrxX in an inactive dimeric form. We propose that BrxX-mediated foreign DNA sensing is a necessary first step in activation of BREX defense.
Changing ecosystems promote generalism and enhanced heterogeneity in diet composition in the endangered St. Lawrence Estuary beluga
Abstract Changes in trophodynamics may affect trophic niche both at the individual and population levels. Using stable isotope ratios, we showed how contrasting oceanographic and trophic conditions in 1997–2003 and 2015–2020 have altered the diet and degree of individual specialization of St. Lawrence Estuary beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). The trophic niche of all sex and age classes changed over time, with beluga consuming more small pelagic prey during the first than the second period. Adult male diets differed from that of adult females and juveniles during the first period due to the other prey that were consumed. In 2015–2020, diet contributions by small pelagic prey decreased in all segments of the population and led to marginally significant differences in diet between adult males and females. These dietary changes were concomitant to a diversification of diet at the individual level and to an increase in diet heterogeneity among conspecifics and years within the 2015–2020 period. Whether these patterns emerged from an environment-driven reduction in prey biomass or from an increase in intra- and/or interspecific competition is unknown. Our findings illustrate the importance of considering individuals and not just the population when studying the foraging ecology of endangered species.
Ameba-inspired strategy enhances probiotic efficacy via prebound nutrient supply
Nutritional quality profiles of six microgreens
Abstract Globally, one in every four individuals faces a deficiency in essential micronutrients. Harvested early from various vegetables, grains, and herbs, microgreens have rich nutritional profiles that can mitigate nutrient deficiencies. Here, we analyzed six microgreens’ nutritional profiles for broccoli, black radish, red beet, pea, sunflower, and bean. Ascorbic acid content varied widely, from 32.72 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) in red beet to 80.45 mg/100 g FW in beans. All microgreens exhibited high macro elements (mg/100 g FW), with potassium ranging from 187.07 to 416.05, magnesium from 45.96 to 86.83, calcium from 67.18 to 148.63, and phosphorus from 2.57 to 4.88. They also contained significant microelements (µg/100 g FW), including iron from 524 to 2610, manganese from 176.32 to 350.56, zinc from 31.92 to 129.78, and copper from 458.84 to 956.34. Glucose content surpassed sucrose and fructose, ranging from 0.114 to 0.580 mg/100 g FW. Among organic acids, citric acid was highest in red beet, succinic acid in beans, and fumaric acid in sunflower. Broccoli microgreens had the highest total phenolic content (825.53 mg GA/100 g FW), while beans had the highest total flavonoid content (758.0 mg RU/100 g FW). Black radish microgreens demonstrated the highest antioxidant capacity. Additionally, volatile aromatic compounds were analyzed across the six microgreen species. These findings highlight the nutritional potential of microgreens, advocating for their inclusion in diets to enhance human health. Red beet microgreens were the richest in organic acids, particularly citric acid, and flavonoids, supporting antioxidant activity, while black radish microgreens exhibited the highest DPPH antioxidant capacity and phenolic content. Bean microgreens stood out for their high ascorbic acid content. Sunflower microgreens had the highest levels of calcium and fumaric acid. Broccoli microgreens were abundant in phenolic compounds and contained high concentrations of iron and manganese. Finally, pea microgreens excelled in phosphorus and copper content.
Explainable artificial intelligence of DNA methylation-based brain tumor diagnostics
In vivo and in vitro investigations of schisandrin B against angiotensin II induced ferroptosis and atrial fibrosis by regulation of the SIRT1 pathway
Method for detecting cracks in retaining walls based on improved YOLOv5s
The beneficial effects of a probiotic mix on bone and lean mass are dependent on the diet in female mice
Abstract Bone mass and lean mass decrease with age and these changes are associated with increased fracture risk and sarcopenia. Previous studies demonstrated that a probiotic mixture of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei DSM13434, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum DSM 15312 and DSM 15313 (L. Mix) prevents bone loss in ovariectomized (ovx) female mice. The purpose of the present study is to test if the beneficial effect of L. Mix is modified by the diet. Female mice were fed either a high-fat (HFD, 60% kcal from fat) or a low-fat (LFD, 10% kcal from fat) diet and subjected to either sham or ovx surgery and treated with L. Mix for 12 weeks. L. Mix treatment increased total body bone mineral density (p ≤ 0.01), by increasing cortical bone area, and total body lean mass (p = 0.035) in mice on LFD but not in mice on HFD. Metagenome sequencing of cecal content showed that L. Mix treatment increased the relative abundance of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei and, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, demonstrating successful treatment. In addition, the probiotic treatment affected the overall gut microbiota composition and functionality. These findings demonstrate that the L. Mix in combination with a healthy diet is beneficial for musculoskeletal health in female mice.
Development and validation of a new equation to estimate glomerular filtration rate in Argentinian adults
A preliminary EEG study on persuasive communication towards groupness
Atmospheric and submerged bone cement erosion by a pulsating water jet with a straight tubular nozzle extension
Advanced predictive machine and deep learning models for round-ended CFST column
Modeling the non-integer dynamics of a vector-borne infection with nonlocal and nonsingular kernel
Abstract Vector-borne infections impose a significant burden on global health systems and economies due to their widespread impact and the substantial resources required for prevention, control, and treatment efforts. In this work, we formulate a mathematical model for the transmission dynamics of a vector-borne infection with the effect of vaccination through the Atangana-Baleanu derivative. The solutions of the model are positive and bounded for positive initial values of the state variable. We presented the basic concept and theory of fractional calculus for the analysis of the model. We determine the threshold parameter, denoted by $$\mathcal {R}_0$$ , using the next-generation matrix method. The local asymptotic stability of the system at the disease-free equilibrium is analyzed. To establish the existence of solutions for the proposed model, we employ fixed-point theory. A numerical scheme is developed to visualize the system’s dynamical behavior under varying input parameters. Numerical simulations are conducted to illustrate how these parameters influence the dynamics of the system. The results highlight key factors affecting the transmission and control of vector-borne diseases, offering insights into strategies for prevention and mitigation.
Detection and molecular characterization of Blastocystis sp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Giardia duodenalis in asymptomatic animals in southeastern Iran
Abstract Domestic animals can harbor a variety of enteric unicellular eukaryotic parasites (EUEP) with zoonotic potential that pose risks to human health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence and genetic diversity of EUEP of zoonotic relevance in domestic animals in Iran. Faecal samples were collected from cattle, sheep, camels, goats, donkeys, horse, and dogs. A real-time PCR was performed to detect the parasites, followed by sequence-based genotyping analyses on isolates that tested positive for Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Giardia duodenalis, and Blastocystis sp.. Overall, 53 out of 200 faecal samples (26.5%, 95% CI 20.5–33.2) were positive for one or more EUEP. Enterocytozoon bieneusi was found in 23.8%, 12.0%, 26.1%, and 13.3% of cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, respectively. Giardia duodenalis was identified in 19.3% of cattle and 6.7% of camels. Blastocystis sp. was detected in 5.7% of cattle and 16.7% of camels. Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes macaque1, J, BEB6, and CHG3 were identified in 3.7% (1/27), 3.7% (1/27), 44.4% (12/27), and 48.2% (13/27) of the isolates, respectively. Giardia duodenalis assemblage B and Blastocystis subtype 10 were identified in one cattle and one camel isolate, respectively. These findings suggest that domestic animals could serve as potential reservoirs for EUEP of zoonotic relevance and might play a significant role in transmitting these parasites to humans and other animals.