Activity in the parabrachial calcitonin gene-related peptide to bed nucleus of the stria terminalis circuit associates with anxiety-like behavior. To test whether heightened anxiety induces neuronal adaptations in parabrachial to bed nucleus of the stria terminalis circuit, C57 mice were exposed to 4 days of daily forced swim stress. The novelty suppressed feeding test demonstrated the forced swim stress model increased anxiety-like behavior and induced hyperphagia. To assess if forced swim stress potentiates anxiety-like behavior in mice with baseline dysregulated affect, mice received chronic intermittent ethanol vapor and forced swim stress in alcohol-abstinence. Anxiety-like behavior measured by the novelty suppressed feeding test was potentiated and hyperphagia was induced by forced swim stress in alcohol-abstinence. To measure anxiety-related neuroadaptations, CalcaCRE mice, with of CRE-dependent hM3D(Gq) DREADDs in the parabrachial nucleus and the Ca2+ sensor GCaMP7f in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, were exposed to forced swim stress. Neurotransmission was measured by recording GCaMP7f fluorescence in ex vivo bed nucleus of the stria terminalis slices. hM3D(Gq) DREADDs in parabrachial projections expressing calcitonin gene-related peptide were activated via bath application of clozapine-n-oxide. Excitatory drive by parabrachial calcitonin gene-related peptide projections decreased GCaMP7f spike frequency and amplitude in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Forced swim stress potentiated excitatory drive of parabrachial calcitonin gene-related peptide projections as the decrease in GCaMP frequency was potentiated. In summary repeated exposure to stress induces heightened anxiety and hyperphagia that is associated with potentiated parabrachial to bed nucleus of the stria terminalis circuit activity.

1. INTRODUCTION:Supravalvar aortic stenosis (SVAS) is the least common form of Left ventricular outflow tract obstructions (LVOTOs), which include subvalvular, valvular, and supravalvular variations, comprising approximately 2% of all cases. Primarily, it entails a distinct constriction of the aortic passage at the sinotubular junction (STJ). (1) SVAS is often associated with Williams-Beuren syndrome, though cases may also occur sporadically or within families. In conditions not associated to Williams-Beuren, it is advised to undergo genetic testing for elastin and initiate cascade screening within the family as it exhibits a notable genetic influence involving the elastin gene (7q11.2).(2). Herein, we present the case of a 15-year-old girl with SVAS who underwent double patch aortoplasty with bovine pericardium and remained symptomatically improved over a two-year follow-up.

Successful plant invasions are often explained by adaptation to novel environments. However, invasive species usually occupy broad niches within their native and introduced ranges. A true understanding of microevolution during invasion therefore requires a wide sampling of ranges, ideally with a knowledge of introduction history. We tested for genetic differentiation in herbivore resistance among 128 introduced (European, North American) and native (Chinese, Japanese) populations of the invasive Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) in two common gardens in the native range. In both common gardens, we found that the resistance traits of the introduced populations differed from most Chinese native populations but not from native populations in Japan, which are the two putative sources of introduction. Compared to Chinese populations, introduced European populations had thicker leaves in both common gardens with a lower C: N ratio but higher flavonoids content in the Shanghai garden. In the native range, variation in herbivore resistance was much more strongly associated with climate of origin than in introduced populations. Our results support that introducing particular resistance phenotypes from Japan played a key role in the invasion of knotweed into Europe and North America. Our study demonstrates how knowledge of introduction history can avoid misinterpretations of observed biogeographic divergence.

Soil, vital for human life, faces threats like erosion, floods, organic matter loss, salinisation, contamination, compaction, sealing, and biodiversity loss. Soil cover, especially through crops, combats erosion and enhances structure. The IN-GEST SOIL project, focused on mitigating soil erosion and enhancing soil and vine quality in Piedmont vineyards (NW Italy), conducted a study exploring the perceptions and behaviors of winegrowers in this Italian region. Adopting a mixed-methods research approach, the study included a questionnaire administered to 72 winegrowers, with 22 participating in subsequent focus groups, to investigate the perceived causes of soil erosion and adoption of potential preventive measures. The results showed that most participants were aware of soil degradation phenomena in their vineyards. Grass cover was adopted as a soil management practice, even though much information about soil degradation risks and related solutions is necessary, especially knowledge and indication on how to correctly use management practices and technical solutions that can contribute to soil conservation, to avoid a misuse that may results, on the contrary, in increased soil degradation. Even though some differences in perceptions emerged based on vineyards’ characteristics, the present study highlighted the need to encourage the adoption of soil protection practices and technologies, spread access to economic support, and help winegrowers’ transition toward a more sustainable farming paradigm. In addition to the findings related to the objectives, this study demonstrated the usefulness of a mixed methods research approach, which is uniquely capable of providing both extensive and statistically relevant information and intensive, narrative insights.

A case of an osteolytic mass hiding behind an undiagnosed parathyroid adenoma – case report

Background and Purpose: Given the recent rise in cannabis legalization, accessibility and consumption by pregnant individuals, there are unintended developmental consequences considering the key role that the endocannabinoid system plays in fetal development and later-life energy homeostasis. Whether perinatal cannabis exposure (PCE) affects energy homeostasis positively or adversely in adulthood is unknown. We explored the long-term effects of maternal voluntary oral cannabis consumption on the metabolic outcomes of high fat diet (HFD) in adult offspring. Experimental Approach: Pregnant mice voluntarily consumed cannabis from gestational day 1.5 until postnatal day (PD) 10. Pregnancy and pup outcomes and active maternal behavior were recorded. Male and female offspring (PD49) were placed on a 12-week HFD or control diet; their weight gain, adiposity, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, circulating hormones, and pancreas structure were measured. Key Results: PCE pup weight was reduced but was restored by PD16. PCE did not influence weight gain or metabolic characteristics of male mice on a HFD. However, PCE female offspring on a HFD had reduced accumulation of adipose tissue and lower insulin, leptin, and resistin independent of body weight and while PCE females on control diet showed altered basal insulin sensitivity likely due to increased glucagon levels in parallel with reduced islets of Langerhans size and enhanced gene expression of cannabinoid 2 receptors in white adipose tissue. Conclusion and Implications: PCE influences metabolic outcomes in female offspring; it adversely affected glycemic control in female offspring on control diet while it mitigated HFD-induced metabolic dysfunction. This raises concerns about the long-term effects of PCE on the metabolic health of offspring.

Bicyclo [3.2.1] octane-type intermediate (BOI) is a crucial intermediate that can react with water to undergo decarboxylation and produce theaflavins. Given this reactivity, it is logical to assume that BOI can also react with other polar solvents, such as alcohols, to yield the corresponding analogues. In this study, pyrogallol (PG) was used as the substrate and Ag2O as the oxidant to synthesize BOIPPG in an acetone system. Subsequently, our hypothesis was confirmed by the successful synthesis of e-substituted purpurogallin formic acid ester derivatives. Finally, we established a novel detailed mechanism for the generation of benzotropolone derivatives with the aid of a mechanical quantum.

We consider conditions for the decay in time of solutions of non-homogenous hyperbolic equations. It is proven that solutions of the equations go to 0 in L 2 at infinity if and only if an equation’s right-hand side uniquely determines the initial conditions in a certain way. We also obtain that a hyperbolic equation has a unique solution that fades when t→∞.

Leaf photosynthesis models are used extensively in photosynthesis research and are embedded in many larger scale models. Typical photosynthesis models simplify light intensity as the integrated intensity over the 400 to 700 nm waveband (Photosynthetic Active Radiation; PAR). However, far-red light (700-750 nm, FR) also drives photosynthesis when supplied in addition to light within the PAR spectrum. Currently, it is unknown how much far-red light contributes to carbon assimilation under various spectral light conditions. We developed a combined experimental and computational method to quantify FR stimulation. Gas-exchange parameters and incident light spectra were measured simultaneously and analysed with wavelength-dependent modelling of light harvesting. Hereto, separate excitation of Photosystem I and Photosystem II was calculated from incident light spectra. The effect of FR supplementation on photosynthesis was subsequently modelled and expressed as a single parameter ρ. We tested our method on Solanum dulcamara, Lactuca sativa and Phaseolus vulgaris under various light conditions. Results show consistent species-specific ρ-values across a range of FR levels. Our method provides an approach to consistently quantify the effect of FR stimulation on photosynthesis and harmonize the interpretation of photosynthesis measurements under different light regimes, for example in (experimental) setups with artificial FR supplementation or in canopies.

Wnt5a plays an important role in the process of cell development and maturation and is closely related to various diseases, such as malignant tumors, metabolic disorders, fibrosis, growth and development. Recent studies have shown that Wnt5a expression regulation and signal transduction are closely related to inflammatory response. This paper comprehensively reviews the latest research progress on the relationship between Wnt5a and various inflammatory diseases, such as sepsis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, psoriasis vulgare, etc. The mechanism of Wnt5a protein in the pathogenesis of these diseases was elucidated, which provided a basis for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory diseases with Wnt5a as a possible target in the future.

Objective: The aim of this study is to comprehensively investigate the clinical manifestations, pathological diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and prognostic implications in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) manifesting as bone marrow invasion accompanied by peripheral blood counts. Method: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 16 patients diagnosed with DLBCL involving bone marrow and exhibiting peripheral blood abnormalities. Detailed clinical data, laboratory investigations, bone marrow biopsy hematoxylin and eosin (HE) sections, and immunohistochemical stains were compiled and analyzed. Results: Among the patients, B symptoms (11/16, 68.75%) and fatigue (9/16, 56.25%) were the most common symptoms. The diagnostic accuracy of bone marrow biopsy was 100%(16/16). The distribution pattern of abnormal cells in bone marrow biopsies was diffuse in 37.5%(6/16), interstitial in 31.25%(5/16), mixed in 18.75%(3/16), and nodular in 12.5%(2/16) of cases. The tumors originated from the germinal center in 12.5% (2/16) of cases and from non-germinal center sources in 87.5%(14/16). Fibrosis grades were distributed as follows: grade 0 in 1 case (1/16), grade 1 in 7 cases (7/16), and grade 2 in 8 cases (8/16).All 16 patients exhibited invasive disease progression, 3 fatalities ocuuring due to lack of treatment.1 patient unfortunately passed away six months after commencing R-CHOP and R-DHAP chemotherapy. Conclusion: This study offers a comprehensive insight into the clinical and pathological features of DLBCL infiltrating bone marrow with peripheral blood reduction, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnostic techniques and timely intervention in these patients.

Efficient handling of perishable medication inventory is crucial for maintaining healthcare system operations. It prioritizes patient needs while also aiming to minimize costs and environmental impact. This study enhanced a production inventory model to address the distinct challenges like deterioration, preservation technology, and carbon emissions associated with perishable medications. With these considerations, a mathematical model has developed an optimal production inventory that balances cost efficiency with environmental sustainability. Finally, the sensitivity analysis and results validated the model's effectiveness across diverse scenarios.

Background: Supposed ‘spontaneous’ remissions in chronic lymphocytic leukemia/CLL are extremely rare. By the most stringent immunophenotypic criteria, there are only seven cases to date of unexplained, immune system effected cures. A historic review of this phenomenon is presented as context for this eighth case of CLL immunophenotypic reversal. Case history: A 59-year-old, molecular biologist, stage I CLL, whose diagnosis and recovery were both thoroughly documented, not content to watch and wait, chose to treat himself, after individual tumour susceptibility testing, with evidence based, biological response modifiers, which initially seemed to keep his CLL stable. This included 1mg of hydroxocobalamin injected i.m. daily. However, after some years his lymphocytosis began slowly to drift upwards. At that point, he was persuaded to change his injection protocol to methylcobalamin, at 50 mg i.m. a day, a dose whose clinical safety is sufficiently well established, and a form of cobalamin that the research literature shows has anticancer actions. Outcome: This change in cobalamin form and dose proved a critical turning point. Complete disappearance of the lymphocytosis also coincided with a severe infection and an even further temporary increase of the parenteral methylcobalamin dose, both catalytic factors. In the 4th & 5th years following this, the patient’s repeated immunophenotyping showed no clonal disease present. A brief review of the field of cobalamin in cancer research and treatment is given, with discussion of the various mechanisms by which cobalamins may impact on cancer/CLL. Historic analysis reveals that cyanocobalamin is generally cancer promotional, whereas hydroxocobalamin, methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin are cancer protective and cytotoxic. It is hypothesised that the actions of cobalamin in cancer aetiology and oncogenesis/progression are intertwined with those of nitric oxide, which tumours regulate to dupe the immune system to their presence, by causing a functional cobalamin deficiency in the host.

Bacteriophages, or phages (viruses of bacteria), play significant roles in shaping the diversity of bacterial communities within the human gut. A phage-infected bacterial cell can either immediately undergo lysis (virulent/lytic infection) or enter a stable state within the host as a prophage (lysogeny) until a trigger event, called prophage induction, initiates the lysis process. We develop an approach based on a model structured in terms of time since bacterial infection. We derive important threshold parameters for the asymptotic dynamics of the system and demonstrate that the model’s qualitative behavior can range from the extinction of all bacterial strains to the persistence of a single strain (either lysogen or non-lysogen bacteria) or the coexistence of all strains at a positive steady state. We highlight the existence of critical induction rate values that lead to the coexistence of all states through periodic oscillations. We also conduct a global sensitivity analysis for an effective bacterial clearance. In scenarios where antibiotics are not sufficiently effective, we identify four key phage parameter traits: (i) the phage induction probability, describing the capacity of prophages to be induced, (ii) the probability of absorption, describing the phages’ ability to invade susceptible bacteria, (iii) the reproduction number of susceptible bacteria in the absence of antibiotics, and (iv) the latent period, describing the time since absorption. The obtained results emphasize the effective therapeutic potential of selected phages.

Within-species Individual Trait Variation (ITV) is now recognised as an important source of variability in ecological communities. Individual variation in trophic niche traits (i.e. individual niche width and between-individual variation) can greatly modify top-down and/or competitive interactions. Trophic traits vary according to variation in ecological opportunity, which represents the range of exploitable resources. While the role of prey availability in driving trophic traits is well-established, abiotic drivers (e.g. habitat structure) are rarely accounted for, or are solely considered via their effect on the prey community. We aimed to disentangle prey-mediated from direct habitat effects on trophic ITV in a critically endangered riverine fish, the Rhone streber (Zingel asper). We quantified individual trophic traits using high-resolution diet data obtained from faeces metabarcoding, and quantified prey availability and habitat structure using a fine-scale sampling protocol. Trophic traits were driven by distinct mechanisms: the individual niche width was driven by prey availability, while between-individual variation was largely driven by habitat conditions. Habitat conditions acted both directly on trophic traits and indirectly via their effect on the prey community. By simultaneously accounting for biotic and abiotic drivers of trophic ITV, we obtained a more complete understanding of how prey availability and habitat structure jointly determine ecological opportunity. Furthermore, by accounting for fine-scale variation in prey community and habitat conditions, the importance of spatial heterogeneity factors was highlighted. This study demonstrates how robust metabarcoding data, combined with detailed prey community and habitat information can be used to reveal the mechanistic pathways that drive trophic traits.

Gracilaria is a genus of red-algae found mainly in Asia. The population of Gracilaria spread throughout Indonesia’s marine waters, especially in coastal areas. To date, the unique protein expressions using proteomic approach moreover in Central Java area, Indonesia is sporadic. Nonetheless, there has been no report mentioned about Gracilaria spp. amino acid sequences nor its characteristics. Based on the background mentioned, we aimed to conduct protein characterization by using peptide sequence analysis LC-HRMS. Liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS) use has growing across biomedical and environmental sciences, hence provides high accuracy for the detection. We followed the LC-HRMS standard protocol, with optimized precipitation standard. TCA/Aceton precipitation of protein were used as protein purification, then the precipitate subjected for Trypsin digestion. Result of protein analysis were described as protein concentrations, molecular model, and peptide sequences. This experiment showed four identified sequences derived from Rhodophyta database, there are TKKILDK (845.5455 Da), TVKSLLTK (889.5717 Da), ILVKTLK (814.5761 Da), TGcGRSKR (921.4683 Da). This study uncovers peptide sequences for Gracilaria spp. and its similarity with other red algae species along with the function of whole peptide sequences. Furthermore, amino acid models of secondary structure Hidden Markov Model(HMM) were provided to support our findings.

Thick electrode, with its feasibility and cost-effectiveness, has attracted significant attention as a promising approach to maximize the energy density of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Through raising the mass loading of active materials without altering the fundamental chemical attributes, thick electrodes can boost the energy density of the batteries effectively. Nevertheless, as the thickness of the electrode increases, the ionic conductivity of the electrode decreases, leading to abominable polarization in the thickness direction, which severely hampers the practical application of a thick electrode. This work proposes a novel porous gradient design of high-performance thick electrodes for LIBs. By constructing a porous structure that serves as a fast transport pathway for lithium (Li) ions, the ion transport kinetics within thick electrodes are significantly enhanced. Meanwhile, a particle size gradient design is incorporated to further mitigate polarization effects within the electrode, leading to substantial improvements in reaction homogeneity and material utilization. Employing this strategy, we have fabricated a porous gradient nanocellulose-carbon-nanotube based thick electrode, which exhibits an impressive capacity retention of 86.7% at a high mass loading of LiCoO2 (LCO) active material (20 mg cm⁻²) and a high current density of 5 mA cm⁻².

This study explores the synthesis of high-entropy alloy (HEA) nanoparticles with core-shell structures using hydrogen reduction-assisted ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP). The focus is on synthesizing nanoparticles with transition metal based CoCuFeNi and CoCuFeNiZn HEA shells over iron oxide cores. The USP method enabled precise control over particle composition and morphology, resulting in spherical nanoparticles with complex core-shell configurations. The first synthesized particles with a CoCuFeNi shell over an Fe3O4 core (Fe3O4@CoCuFeNi) exhibited an average grain size of 144.9 nm. Subsequent synthesis involving the addition of Zn resulted in a CoCuFeNiZn shell over an FeO core (FeO@CoCuFeNiZn). The addition of Zn not only contributed to the shell composition but also modified the type of iron oxide core from Fe3O4 to FeO, increasing the grain size of the nanospheres to an average diameter of 224.4 nm. Electrocatalytic testing showed that Fe3O4@CoCuFeNi exhibited outstanding oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity in 1 M KOH alkaline media. These nanospheres required overpotentials of 306 mV at 10 mA cm², with a Tafel slope of 61.5 mV dec⁻¹. Meanwhile, FeO@CoCuFeNiZn demonstrated a higher overpotential of 378 mV at 10 mA cm² and a Tafel slope of 65.4 mV dec⁻¹, underlining the influence of zinc addition on catalytic activity. Compared to some other HEAs and commercial IrO2 electrocatalysts, both core-shell nanosphere variants show improved charge transfer and reaction kinetics, underscoring their potential as cost-effective and highly efficient electrocatalysts for sustainable water electrolysis.