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PubMed2026

Prenatal exposure to indoor PM2.5 and children's cognitive performance at 4 years of age: an observational analysis from the UGAAR randomized controlled trial.

Outdoor fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations during pregnancy are linked to reduced cognitive performance in children. We previously reported that portable HEPA filter air cleaners use during pregnancy improved children's mean full-scale IQ (FSIQ), but no previous studies have evaluated the relationship between indoor PM2.5 during pregnancy and FSIQ in childhood. We conducted an observational analysis using data from the Ulaanbaatar Gestation and Air Pollution Research (UGAAR) randomized controlled trial. Using a previously developed model of weekly indoor PM2.5 concentrations, we estimated the average concentrations in participants' homes over the full pregnancy and in each trimester. When the children were four years old, we measured FSIQ using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI-IV). We used multiple linear regression to assess the adjusted relationships between interquartile range (IQR) contrasts in indoor PM2.5 during pregnancy and FSIQ among 475 mother-child dyads. An 8.8 μg/m3 increase in indoor PM2.5 concentration over the full pregnancy was associated with a reduction of 1.4 points (95% CI: -3.4, 0.6) in mean FSIQ. The strongest association between PM2.5 concentrations and FSIQ was in the first trimester, when a 19.1 μg/m3 contrast was associated with a 2.8-point reduction (95% CI: -5.7, 0.2) in mean FSIQ. Indoor PM2.5, particularly during early pregnancy, may impair brain development, leading to lower mean FSIQ scores in four-year old children. These results, combined with our previous analysis of HEPA filter air cleaners, indicate that reducing PM2.5 exposure during pregnancy has beneficial effects on children's cognitive performance.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Ultra-high-field 7T MRI reveals neural abnormalities of attention networks in relation to cognitive impairment in hypertension.

Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment (CI), yet the corresponding neural network abnormalities remain underexplored. In this study, we examined the associations among global and domain-specific cognitive dysfunction, neuroimaging measures, and blood pressure in a subgroup of hypertensive patients with CI (N = 41) from a randomized controlled trial who underwent ultra-high-field 7 T MRI. Structural atrophy related to CI was localized to regions overlapping the attention networks. Both whole-brain and within-network dysfunction of the attention networks were associated with worse global cognitive performance. Notably, hyperconnectivity within key attention network hubs, including the right anterior insula and posterior intraparietal sulcus, was associated with declined processing speed in hypertensive patients, mediating the association between pulse pressure and processing speed. These findings provide new insights into the neural pathophysiology of hypertension-related CI and suggest potential network-based targets for intervention.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging↗

PubMed2026

Alginate-based edible coating incorporating green tea extract for preserving postharvest quality and safety of white mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus).

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a sodium alginate based edible coating incorporated with green tea extract (GTE) (Camellia sinensis) on the postharvest quality attributes and antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes in white mushrooms during refrigerated storage. The phenolic profile of GTE was characterized, and its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against L. monocytogenes (1.6 mg/mL) was determined. Sodium alginate coatings, with (ALG-GTE) or without GTE (ALG) at MIC (1.6 mg/mL), were characterized (functional groups, solubility in water, moisture, thickness, water contact angle and color) for their chemical and physical properties. The effects of ALG-GTE coatings on quality parameters (firmness, weight loss, color, pH, sugars and organic acids), enzymatic activity [polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POD) and pectin methylesterase (PME)], antimicrobial activity against L. monocytogenes (5 log CFU/g), and surface characteristics (3D optical profilometry) were assessed in white mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) during refrigerated storage (8 days, 4 ± 1 °C, 90-95% RH). The ALG-GTE coatings preserved sugar composition, particularly rhamnose, reduced organic acids accumulation and delayed weight and firmness loss, reduced color changes, and decreased PME activity in coated white mushrooms. L. monocytogenes counts decreased by 1.4 log CFU/g after 1 day, and no viable cells were detected after 2 days (< 1.5 log CFU/g) in ALG-GTE coated white mushrooms. In addition, ALG-GTE coated white mushrooms exhibited smoother surfaces than uncoated samples. These findings highlight the potential of ALG-GTE coatings as a sustainable alternative capable of improving the microbiological safety and delaying the postharvest changes in fresh mushrooms.

Agaricus↗

PubMed2026

Epilepsy Is Part of the CNS Phenotype in Classic Infantile Pompe Disease.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Enzyme replacement therapy has not only significantly improved motor outcome and survival in patients with classic infantile Pompe disease, but also revealed previously unrecognized central nervous system (CNS) involvement. In this international study, involving patients from the Netherlands, Italy, Argentina, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan, we investigated whether epilepsy should be considered part of the CNS phenotype. METHODS: We included patients with classic infantile Pompe disease, defined by the presence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, symptom onset < 6 months of age, complete acid α-glucosidase (GAA) deficiency, and/or 2 severe variants in the GAA gene, who developed epilepsy. Data on epilepsy characteristics, electroencephalogram (EEG), cognitive testing, serum neurofilament light chain (NfL), and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were retrospectively collected. RESULTS: Seventeen patients from 10 centers were identified. The median follow-up duration was 13.7 years (range 3.3-19). Seven patients had deceased at the time of analysis. The median age at first seizure was 11.5 years (range 2.5-17.5). Seizure semiology was variable: six patients experienced generalized tonic-clonic seizures and 3 focal seizures with impaired consciousness only; 6 had multiple seizure types, and 7 experienced seizures during fever or infection. Seizure frequency varied considerably (in 9 occasionally, 5 monthly, 2 weekly, 1 daily). The most common EEG findings were a slowed background activity and focal epileptiform discharges, not substantially activated by sleep. Levetiracetam was most frequently used as antiseizure medication. Overall, 70% of patients became seizure-free. Serum NfL was elevated in all 6 patients in whom it was measured, and 8 of 10 patients had an intelligence quotient ≤66 at onset of epilepsy. Although brain MRI was not always performed at the age of first seizure, 14 of 15 patients showed white matter abnormalities, which were extensive in 11 of 14 (score ≥7/12). Brain atrophy was present in 9 cases and calcifications in 4. DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest a potential increased frequency of seizures in classic infantile Pompe disease in comparison with unaffected children, occurring predominantly after the age of 7, and that epilepsy is part of the CNS phenotype. The risk of seizures should be evaluated during follow-up in long-term survivors with classic infantile Pompe disease.

Journal Article↗

PubMed2026

Pollution characteristics and health risks of PAHs and OPAHs in PM2.5 of an inland basin city in China under the influence of the clean air action plan.

Since the implementation of China's Clean Air Action, remarkable progress has been made in air pollution control, with continuous air quality improvement in Xi'an, a typical inland basin city in the Fenwei Plain. To clarify winter organic aerosol pollution variations and pinpoint targeted control needs under policy regulation, this study investigated PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and oxygenated derivatives (OPAHs) in winter Xi'an, focusing on pollution levels, chemical compositions, source contributions, meteorological impacts, regional transport and health risks. Historical comparison showed generally lower wintertime PAH concentrations in Xi'an during the period of China's clean-air actions. PMF results indicated mixed source influences on PAHs and OPAHs, with biomass-burning-related mixed combustion showing the largest contribution. During haze episodes, absolute concentrations of both PAHs and OPAHs increased; the increase was statistically significant for OPAHs but not for parent PAHs, while 4-5 ring PAHs and BcdPQ dominated the PAH and OPAH profiles, respectively. Meteorological variability, particularly synoptic pressure patterns, was strongly associated with pollutant concentrations, and regional pollution was dominated by in-basin accumulation combined with short-range transport from northern Shaanxi industrial zones. Haze periods exhibited higher toxic-equivalent concentrations, with OPAHs, particularly BcdPQ, dominating the toxicity-equivalent burden. Screening-level ILCR estimates generally remained below 10⁻4 but increased during haze episodes, especially for adult and elderly groups. In conclusion, China's clean air actions have coincided with lower wintertime PAH pollution, but stronger control of residential biomass and other solid-fuel combustion, traffic emissions, and OPAH formation remains necessary in the Fenwei Plain.

China↗

PubMed2026

Quantifying the combined effects of semi-closed terrain and monsoon on PM2.5 and O3 pollution aggregation in the North China Plain.

The North China Plain (NCP) and its surrounding regions represent one of the key priority areas for air pollution control. As anthropogenic emissions decline significantly, the effect of terrain and meteorology on air pollution pattern has become increasingly prominent, particularly given the NCP's unique semi-closed terrain and East Asian monsoon dynamics. However, quantitative characterization of terrain-dominated blocking effects remains unexplored. Here we quantitatively assess the blocking effects of mountains and terrain-coupled meteorological factors on air pollutant dispersion. We find the NCP on the eastern side of the Taihang Mountains showed high PM2.5 and O3 pollution levels, with winter PM2.5 and summer O3 high-value zones showing opposite north-south aggregation patterns. PM2.5 and O3 concentrations were highest in plains, followed by platforms, hills, and finally mountains. Within the 120-km buffer zones of the typical mountains in the NCP and its surrounding regions, PM2.5 and O3 concentrations increased initially with altitude but then decreased markedly above a threshold altitude. Above the threshold altitude, mountain blocking effects became dominant. The effective blocking altitudes of typical mountains in the NCP and its surrounding regions ranged between 22 and 929 m for winter PM2.5 pollution, and between 19 and 1060 m for summer O3 pollution. The Terrain-Wind Close Index indicates that the terrain-coupled East Asian monsoon showed stronger blocking effects on PM2.5 dispersion in southern NCP during winter and on O3 diffusion in northern NCP during summer, matching observed high-pollution zones. This study offers key insights for regional joint air pollution mitigation strategies, as well as regional pollution assessment.

Particulate Matter↗

PubMed2026

Role of omentin-1 in the global proteome of porcine pituitary cells: insights into proliferation- and apoptosis-related processes.

The anterior pituitary integrates endocrine regulation, cellular growth, and adaptive responses. Adipokines, secreted mainly by adipose tissue, act as hormonal signals linking metabolism, inflammation, appetite, and reproduction. They regulate hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis by modulating hormone secretion and intracellular signaling. The presence of adipokine receptors in anterior pituitary suggests local metabolic-endocrine interactions. Omentin-1, predominantly expressed in visceral adipose tissue, participates in glucose metabolism and ovarian steroid regulation. Recent findings indicate that omentin-1 modulates tropic hormones, their receptors, and adipokine balance in anterior pituitary cells. We hypothesized that omentin-1 affects protein expression and signaling pathways involved in pituitary cell proliferation and apoptosis. This study examined its effects in anterior pituitary cells from Large White and Meishan pigs. Proteomic analysis identified 230 candidate differentially abundant proteins after omentin-1 treatment: 30 downregulated and 3 upregulated in Large White pigs, and 107 downregulated and 90 upregulated in Meishan pigs, associated with enriched 116 Gene Ontology terms. Key proteins were associated with cell cycle, DNA replication, gene expression, and posttranscriptional/posttranslational regulation. Responses differed between breeds. CDK5RAP2 and SIX1 were linked to proliferative control in Large White pigs, whereas AKT1S1 and RHOA were among the proteins associated with the broader proteomic response observed in Meishan pigs. Meishan pigs showed dynamic apoptotic protein regulation, including HTRA2, PARP2, and DFFA. Complementary in vitro experiments demonstrated that omentin-1 downregulated cyclins and caspase-3, upregulated BCL2, increased BCL2/BAX ratio, and modulated ERK1/2, AKT, AMPKα, and STAT3 phosphorylation. Together, these findings suggest that omentin-1 modulates proteomic networks and intracellular signaling associated with anterior pituitary cell function during the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Changes in hippocampal functional connectivity and volume associated with cognitive improvement and decline in amnestic mild cognitive impairment following computerized cognitive training.

BACKGROUND: The hippocampus influences the outcomes of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and undergoes different changes during the cognitive decline or recovery of aMCI compared to elderly individuals with normal cognition, which may reveal disease-dependent neurodegeneration or plasticity. We first aimed to investigate the hippocampal changes associated with cognitive changes in aMCI using a combined case-control study design. METHODS: In total, 50 aMCI individuals and 50 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited in Shenyang, China, and separately randomized into training and control groups: aMCI training group, aMCI no training group, HC training group, and HC no training group. The aMCI and HC training groups received computerized cognitive training (CCT) thrice weekly for 12 weeks. Cognitive assessments and MRI data were collected at baseline and follow-up. RESULTS: The primary outcome was significant CCT×diagnosis interaction effect on the change in cognitive performance as measured by clock drawing test (CDT) scores (F = 4.322, P = 0.041); this interaction was driven by CCT specifically in aMCI (F = 4.465, P = 0.038). Significant CCT×diagnosis interaction effects of right-hippocampal FC changes were observed in the bilateral precuneus/cuneus (Pvoxel<0.05) driven by CCT in aMCI (F = 5.429, P = 0.023), and in the left superior temporal gyrus/middle temporal gyrus (STG/MTG, Pvoxel<0.05), driven by CCT of only in HCs (F = 6.587, P = 0.013). A significant interaction effect of left-hippocampal FC changes were observed in the right triangular part of the inferior frontal gyrus (IFGtriang, Pvoxel<0.05), driven by CCT in aMCI and HCs (F = 6.550, P = 0.013; F = 7.097, P = 0.010). No significant interaction effect on the change in hippocampal GMV was noted (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: CCT can improve the visuospatial ability of aMCI, which is reflected by the CDT scores. CCT can alter hippocampal FC in the bilateral precuneus/cuneus, the right IFGtriang, and the left STG/MTG. The hippocampal GMV is difficult to change in both HCs and aMCI during the cognitive decline. REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR1900026849. DATE OF REGISTRATION: 24 October 2019 NAME OF TRIAL REGISTRY: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR).

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Single-cell RNA sequencing provides further insights into the immunostimulatory action of freeze-dried Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on Penaeus vannamei shrimp.

Immunostimulation through dietary interventions opened new avenues in developing disease control and prevention tools for shrimp aquaculture. We have previously shown that feeding with freeze-dried Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LAB) increased disease resistance of Penaeus vannamei against both Vibrio parahaemolyticus and white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) based on bulk RNA sequencing of shrimp gills. This tissue participates in ion transport and serves as a first line of defense against environmental stressors and pathogenic infections. However, characterization of their cell composition and functions remains limited. Here, we implemented a single-cell RNA sequencing approach to further gather insights into how feeding with freeze-dried LAB modulates host immunity which may not be evident with bulk RNA sequencing approach. A total of five clusters with unique transcriptional signatures were identified, corresponding to pillar cells, septal cells, and sessile hemocytes. Pseudo-bulk analyses at global- and cluster-levels showed differential expression of genes related to host immunity and metabolism. We further revealed how overall transcriptomic changes are not exclusively caused by gene expression changes but may also be driven by cell population dynamics. This study highlighted how single-cell RNA sequencing approach may shed light on the mechanisms of action of immunostimulants which may be masked in bulk transcriptome analyses.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Orofacial Cleft Disparities in American Indian and Alaska Native Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the prevalence, access to care, and health outcomes of orofacial clefts (OFCs) among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations through a systematic review and meta-analysis.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis performed in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251035364).SettingUS-based population registries, hospital databases, and institutional or community-level retrospective studies involving AI/AN populations.Patients and ParticipantsAI/AN individuals with OFCs compared with non-Hispanic White patients.InterventionsPrimary cleft lip and palate repair, secondary cleft-related procedures, and multidisciplinary cleft care.Main Outcome Measure(s)Prevalence of OFCs, timing of cleft surgery, discharge disposition, access to specialists, and qualitative determinants of disparities.ResultsEighteen studies including more than 1985 AI/AN patients were identified. Meta-analysis of 5 studies estimated a pooled OFC prevalence of 15 per 10 000 live births (95% confidence interval: 5-49), with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 99.8%). Individual studies reported significantly higher OFC prevalence in AI/AN populations compared to non-Hispanic Whites (odds ratio range: 1.44-2.68). Geographic maldistribution of craniofacial-trained surgeons, increased odds of nonhome discharge, and delayed cleft palate repair were consistently observed barriers. Qualitative analyses highlighted structural inequities, perceived racism, and lack of culturally responsive care as major contributors to disparities.ConclusionsAI/AN populations face a disproportionately high burden of OFCs alongside structural barriers to timely, culturally competent care. Addressing these disparities requires community-engaged, multidisciplinary interventions that improve geographic access and integrate culturally responsive approaches to care.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Genome-wide identification and characterization of ABC transporters and their expression in response to saline-alkaline stress and WSSV infection in Fenneropenaeus chinensis.

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters play crucial roles in stress responses across organisms, yet their functions in Fenneropenaeus chinensis remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified 42 FcABC genes (FcABCs) in the F. chinensis genome and analyzed their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and chromosomal distributions. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the FcABCs into eight subfamilies (ABCA-ABCH), with conserved motif and domain compositions within each subfamily. Expression analysis showed that several FcABC genes, including FcABCG5, FcABCA1, and FcABCC3, were significantly induced under saline-alkaline stress in gill and hepatopancreas tissues. In contrast, most FcABCs were downregulated after WSSV challenge, though a subset (e.g., FcABCB1, FcABCC1) exhibited early upregulation. Functional validation via RNA interference demonstrated that knockdown of FcABCG5 increased shrimp mortality under saline-alkaline stress. Cis-regulatory element analysis revealed an enrichment of stress- and immune-related elements in FcABC promoters. Protein-protein interaction network predictions indicated potential roles for FcABCs in cholesterol metabolism and organic anion transport. Our findings provide insights into the roles of FcABC genes in stress adaptation and immune defense, offering candidate genes for the breeding of stress-resistant shrimp varieties.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Multi-omics reveal microbial functional traits and antifungal metabolites associated with lower Pseudogymnoascus destructans loads in bat cave soils.

White-nose syndrome, caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), is a major fungal disease threatening hibernating bats. Cave soils can serve as environmental reservoirs for Pd, yet the microbial and biochemical mechanisms underlying naturally low Pd burdens in some cave environments remain poorly understood. Here, we integrated soil microbiome profiling, metagenomics, metabolomics, multi-omics network analysis, and in vitro validation to investigate the ecological and functional basis of differential Pd loads in hibernating bat caves in Northeast China. The three caves shared cold, humid, and weakly acidic microenvironments, but differed significantly in electrical conductivity, soil water content, nutrient availability, and extracellular enzyme activities. Soil microbial communities showed significant inter-cave variation in composition, diversity, and niche breadth, with stochastic processes contributing substantially to community assembly. Environmental variables, particularly pH and Pd load, were important predictors of microbial community structure. Functional analyses revealed that the low-Pd Gezi Cave was enriched in genes associated with organic carbon degradation, nitrogen input and retention, and secondary metabolism. Metabolomic profiling further identified cave-specific metabolite signatures, among which Biochanin A, 4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, Vanillin, and Arachidonic acid were negatively correlated with Pd loads. Integrated pathway and network analyses showed that differential genes and metabolites jointly mapped to secondary metabolite biosynthesis, aminobenzoate degradation, and flavonoid degradation pathways, forming a microbe-metabolite-functional gene coupling network involving key taxa such as Rhodococcus, Pseudorhodoplanes, and Rhodoplanes. In vitro assays confirmed that 4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, Coumarin, and Vanillin inhibited Pd growth. Structural equation modelling further indicated that environmental heterogeneity was associated with variation in Pd loads through microbial functional attributes and metabolite profiles. These findings suggest that naturally low-Pd cave soils are associated with coordinated environmental filtering, microbial functional specialization, and antifungal metabolite production, providing mechanistic insight into microbial and biochemical constraints on Pd persistence in cave reservoirs.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Alcohol use disorder and childhood adversity in the association between polygenic risk and suicidality.

OBJECTIVE: Suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempt (SA) are both influenced by genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may mediate or moderate the effects of genetic liability for suicidality. METHODS: Using data from 10,275 participants (43.8% female; 47.2% African-like genetic ancestry [AFR], 52.8% European-like genetic ancestry [EUR]), we tested whether polygenic scores (PGS) for SI and SA predicted lifetime suicidality outcomes. We evaluated whether AUD partially accounted for these associations and ACEs moderated the direct and indirect associations. RESULTS: The SA PGS was significantly associated with SA (AFR: b = 0.36, SE = 0.01; EUR: b = 0.17, SE = 0.01; both ps < 2e-16), but the SI PGS was not associated with SI (p > 0.55). AUD statistically mediated the association between the SA PGS and SA, accounting for approximately 2% of the total association in AFR individuals and 10% in EUR individuals (both ps < 2e-16). Notably, the proportion of the association that was accounted for by AUD decreased as ACEs exposure increased, from 4.30% to 0.54% in AFR individuals and from 13.31% to 3.44% in EUR individuals. In contrast, there was only very modest mediation and no moderated mediation for SI. CONCLUSIONS: Particularly among individuals with lower ACEs exposure, AUD accounted for a meaningful proportion of the association between genetic liability to SA and lifetime SA. These findings highlight different correlates across suicidality phenotypes and suggest potential clinical relevance for AUD in the association between genetic liability and SA.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Reduced FOXP3 expression and its association with genetic ancestry in neuromyelitis Optica spectrum disorder: a Colombian cohort.

BACKGROUND: Autoimmune disorders are characterized by impaired immune tolerance, largely mediated by CD4⁺ regulatory T cells (Tregs), whose function depends on the transcription factor FOXP3. OBJECTIVES: To compare FOXP3 expression levels between patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and healthy controls from Bogotá, Colombia, and to explore their association with genetic ancestry. METHODS: FOXP3 expression was quantified from peripheral blood mononuclear cells using RNA-based analysis. Genomic ancestry proportions were estimated using ancestry-informative markers. RESULTS: FOXP3 mRNA expression was significantly reduced in NMOSD patients compared with controls (∼2.4-fold decrease in median expression; p = 0.027). Lower FOXP3 mRNA expression was associated with optic neuritis (p = 0.0059), but not with historical or current AQP4-IgG seropositivity. In a sensitivity analysis restricted to patients with documented historical AQP4-IgG seropositivity, the direction of reduced FOXP3 mRNA expression was preserved but did not reach statistical significance. In pre-specified exploratory ancestry-related analyses, African (p = 0.035) and Amerindian ancestry (p = 0.012) were associated with FOXP3 mRNA expression levels. CONCLUSIONS: Reduced FOXP3 mRNA expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) suggests an altered immune regulatory profile in NMOSD, potentially involving mechanisms beyond antibody-mediated immunity. The association between genetic ancestry and FOXP3 mRNA expression suggests that population-specific genetic background may influence immune regulatory pathways. These findings should be interpreted as exploratory and require validation in larger, clinically homogeneous cohorts.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2025

UV-based homogeneous disinfection process for removal of antibiotic resistance genes: Efficiency, mechanisms and influencing factors.

The proliferation and dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in aquatic environments pose a serious threat to global public health. Ultraviolet-driven homogeneous advanced oxidation processes (UV-AOPs) represent a prospective suite of technologies for the efficient removal of ARGs. This review critically assesses recent advances in the application of UV-AOPs, specifically UV/hydrogen peroxide (UV/H2O2), UV/peracetic acid (UV/PAA), UV/persulfate (UV/PS), and UV/chlorine (UV/Cl), for the elimination of extracellular ARGs and intracellular ARGs. The underlying mechanisms involve direct ultraviolet-induced DNA damage, including pyrimidine dimer formation and strand breakage, as well as oxidation mediated by radicals such as hydroxyl radicals, sulfate radicals, carbon-centered radicals, and reactive chlorine species. The relative contribution of radical and non-radical pathways is strongly influenced by water chemistry and process conditions. We further expound on the critical operational and environmental factors governing ARG removal kinetics, including UV wavelength and fluence, oxidant type and dosage, ARG sequence characteristics, pH, ubiquitous anions, and dissolved organic matter, which collectively affect radical generation, quenching, and reaction microenvironments. Notably, for i-ARGs, UV-AOPs facilitate degradation not only through direct radical attack but also by disrupting cellular integrity and permeabilizing membranes, thereby enhancing the exposure of genetic materials to oxidative and photolytic damage. This review synthesizes current understanding to provide a mechanistic basis for the design and optimization of UV-AOP systems, highlighting their potential as effective barriers against the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in water reuse and purification scenarios.

Disinfection↗

PubMed2026

Littoral and wetland vegetation decrease carbon emissions from dry inland waters.

Lakes are recognized as active components of the inland water carbon (C) cycle, as organic matter is processed by microbial respiration, inducing large carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) emissions. In the context of long-lasting drought periods, large uncertainties remain about: (1) the influence of wet-dry cycle on CO2 and CH4 fluxes in littoral zones and lacustrine wetlands; and (2) the contribution of emergent vegetation to C fluxes in dry inland waters. At the water-land interface of two shallow lakes, this study focuses on CO2 and CH4 fluxes from vegetated and bare dry inland waters in relation to hydrological fluctuations. Three seasonal campaigns were conducted to measure daytime CO2 and CH4 fluxes in pelagic, littoral and wetland surface waters, as well as in temporarily air-exposed sediments, using floating and static chambers, respectively. Our results reveal that wet-dry cycle in the littoral zone and wetlands strongly influence gaseous C fluxes through contrasting patterns, especially in late summer, when the biological processes are most active (primary production and respiration). In air-exposed littoral zones, organic-poor sandy sediments presented the lowest CO2 and CH4 emissions, whereas in air-exposed lacustrine wetlands, water-saturated sediments accumulated high amounts of plant-derived organic matter, promoting intense microbial activity and the highest C emissions. However, amphiphytes and helophytes vegetation in exposed littoral zones and wetlands reversed the direction of C fluxes, inducing the highest CO2 uptake due to high photosynthesis rates. This study underlines the relevance of considering vegetation in dry inland waters, particularly in lacustrine littoral zones and wetlands, to obtain comprehensive lake C budgets, especially under climate change scenarios.

Wetlands↗

PubMed2026

The effect of hip abductor or external rotator strength on dynamic knee valgus in healthy subjects-a systematic review with partial meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Weak hip abductors and external rotators (ER) have long been suggested to cause increased dynamic knee valgus. Patients are often prescribed strengthening of these muscles with the expectation that it will reduce their risk of pain and injury. The validity of this claim remains unclear. METHOD: We conducted a systematic review and partial meta-analysis assessing the association between hip strength and knee valgus in healthy subjects. An online search was conducted in May 2026. Databases included Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and Google Scholar. INCLUSION CRITERIA: English language, asymptomatic subjects, dynamometric hip strength, single or multi-camera kinematic analysis, and statistical tests of difference or correlations between hip abductor or ER strength and dynamic valgus. Data were extracted concerning study design, subject characteristics, relevant outcome measures and statistics. RESULTS: 22 papers qualified for inclusion. Hip abductor correlations: 12 papers found no significant correlation, 2 supported the hypothesis and 2 found evidence contrary. Hip ER correlations: 8 papers found no significant correlation, 2 supported the hypothesis and 2 were contrary. Group differences for hip abduction strength: 3 papers found no difference, 2 found significant differences in support of the hypothesis, 1 found significant difference to contrary. Group differences for ER strength: 1 paper found no significant difference. None of the partial meta-analyses achieved statistical significance. CONCLUSION: Weakness in hip abductors or external rotators may not result in increased dynamic knee valgus in healthy subjects. While continued research may further illuminate our understanding, we discuss alternative explanations.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Unacknowledged Burdens and Clinical Assets of BIPOC Genetic Counseling Students: Qualitative Evidence to Inform Supervision.

As the genetic counseling profession works to diversify its predominantly white workforce, understanding the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students is central to equity efforts. While BIPOC students bring invaluable cultural and linguistic diversity that improves patient care, they often navigate clinical training environments that lack diversity and psychological safety. This article draws on data from a longitudinal constructivist qualitative study to examine how racial and ethnic concordance (or lack thereof) with patients and clinical supervisors influenced the clinical training, professional development, and well-being of BIPOC genetic counseling students. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 BIPOC genetic counseling students in the United States and Canada. Interviews were recorded using Zoom.us, transcribed using Rev.com, and analyzed in NVivo using reflexive thematic analysis. The analysis led to the construction of three themes: (1)Shared identity with patients is a clinical advantage: Participants leveraged their cultural and linguistic intuition to establish trust and rapport with patients; (2) Identity navigation involves cognitive and emotional labor: Participants shouldered an unacknowledged burden in managing stereotype threat, overcoming feelings of exclusion, and educating supervisors; and (3) Racial/ethnic identity shapes supervisory dynamics: Participants described BIPOC supervisors as providing identity-affirming support, while some white supervisors avoided discussions about identity or committed microaggressions. These results suggest that BIPOC genetic counseling students have clinical assets rooted in biculturalism, yet carry a burden that often goes unacknowledged of managing power imbalances and pressure to assimilate in predominantly white clinical supervision spaces. To promote equitable training, programs should implement supervisor training on culturally responsive identity broaching, establish independent, transparent mechanisms for students to report biases they encounter in clinic, and expand mentorship networks to provide additional support.

Humans↗