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PubMed2026

Genomic and Molecular Interaction Analysis of NodD1 in a Novel Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense sp. B64 Isolate for Nodulation and Symbiosis of Legume Plants.

Rhizobial bacteria are known for their ability to fix nitrogen for leguminous plants and their essential function for sustainable agriculture. This study characterizes the taxonomic status and functional potential of the Bradyrhizobium B64 isolate using integrated genomic and molecular approaches. The whole genome of the B64 isolate was sequenced via Illumina paired-end technology. Species delimitation was performed using average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA-DNA Hybridization (dDDH). The NodD1 protein structure was modeled using AlphaFold3 and validated by Ramachandran plot analysis. Molecular docking was then conducted to evaluate interactions between NodD1 and four signaling flavonoids: Apigenin, Daidzein, Genistein, and Naringenin. Genomic analysis revealed a maximum ANI of 94.4% and dDDH values between 51.4 and 62.4%. Since these values fall below the standard prokaryotic thresholds (ANI < 95%; dDDH < 70%), the B64 isolate is identified as a novel species. Physiological assays confirmed nitrogen fixation (1.97 ppm), IAA production (3.67 ppm), and phosphate solubilization (26.10 ppm). Structural validation showed 100% of NodD1 residues in allowed regions, ensuring high model reliability. Docking simulations demonstrated strong binding affinities across all flavonoids, with binding free energies ranging from - 8.8 to - 9.0 kcal/mol. Daidzein exhibited the highest thermodynamic stability (- 9.0 kcal/mol), whereas apigenin showed the most extensive residue interaction network. The B64 isolate is a novel Bradyrhizobium species with a high symbiotic capacity. The stable NodD1-flavonoid interactions provide a molecular basis for efficient nodulation, positioning B64 as a promising candidate for developing lipo-chitooligosaccharide (LCO)-based biofertilizers.

Bradyrhizobium↗

PubMed2026

Dynamic lysine acetylation and succinylation of platelet proteins regulates platelet storage lesion: mechanistic insights from multi-omics.

OBJECTIVES: Platelet storage lesion (PSL) severely impairs platelet function during storage, presenting a major hurdle in transfusion medicine; however, the dynamic interplay between global proteomic changes and post-translational modifications (PTMs) underlying these functional deteriorations remains insufficiently characterized. Here, we report the first comprehensive multi-omics analysis integrating global proteomics, acetylomics, and succinylomics to dissect the molecular dynamics during platelet storage. METHODS: We performed quantification of global proteomics, acetylome and succinylome based on TMT-labeled LC-MS/MS analysis, combined with antibody-affinity enrichment and purification. Dynamic molecular changes and functional transformation of platelet were also characterized under proper conditions stored for 1, 3, 5, 7 days, respectively. RESULTS: We systematically characterized 3,609 proteins, 1,308 acetylation sites, and 1,947 succinylation sites across multiple storage time points (D1, D3, D5, D7). We distinct temporal patterns of post-translational modifications, with succinylation showing more extensive coverage than acetylation in platelets. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed extensive metabolic reprogramming involving complement activation, energy metabolism, and cellular detoxification processes. The identification of specific motif patterns provided mechanistic insights into the functional specificity of these modifications. Random forest machine learning identified 20 core regulatory proteins representing critical nodes in PSL development. Furthermore, we employed real - time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT - QPCR) to measure the expression levels of key genes related to platelet function and PTM - associated pathways. CONCLUSION: By mapping the interplay between proteomic abundance shifts and PTM dynamics, this study provides a multidimensional understanding of PSL, establishing a foundational framework for optimizing storage protocols and enhancing transfusion safety.

Blood Platelets↗

PubMed2026

Comparison of Traditional Chinese Exercise and Equipment-Based Exercise on Glycaemic Control and Vitamin D Levels in Middle-Aged and Elderly Patients With Prediabetes: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Prediabetes is a critical window for preventing progression to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Both vitamin D deficiency and physical inactivity are associated with impaired glucose metabolism. This study compared the effects of Traditional Chinese Exercise (TCE) and Kuanle Equipment Exercise (KEE) on glycaemic measures, lipid profiles, body composition and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] in middle-aged and elderly adults with prediabetes. METHODS: We conducted a 12-week, single-centre, randomised controlled trial involving 62 participants with prediabetes (mean age 55.2 ± 8.4 years; 88.7% female). Participants were randomly assigned to control (usual care, n = 21), TCE (n = 20), or KEE (n = 21). Primary outcomes included fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h OGTT glucose, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and serum 25(OH)D3. Secondary outcomes comprised triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C and body composition. RESULTS: At baseline, mean serum 25(OH)D3 was 21.53 ± 3.90 nmol/L. At 12 weeks, both TCE and KEE improved FPG, 2-h OGTT glucose, HbA1c and 25(OH)D3 versus control (all p ≤ 0.001). Relative changes in FPG were -9.4% (TCE) and -15.2% (KEE) versus -1.5% (control); corresponding changes were -14.6% and -21.2% for 2-h OGTT glucose, -6.7% and -12.9% for HbA1c, and +60.6% and +81.9% for 25(OH)D3. Direct TCE-KEE comparisons were not significant (all p > 0.05). In an exploratory analysis, change in 25(OH)D3 was inversely associated with change in 2-h OGTT glucose (partial r = -0.358, p = 0.006), but not with FPG, HbA1c, or triglycerides. CONCLUSIONS: Both TCE and KEE improved glycaemic outcomes and increased serum 25(OH)D3 compared with usual care in middle-aged and elderly adults with prediabetes. Although KEE produced numerically larger estimates, direct between-group comparisons were not significant, and the superiority of KEE over TCE was not established. These vitamin D findings require confirmation in trials that quantify sunlight exposure and dietary vitamin D intake.

Aged↗

PubMed2026

Application of 13C MRS demonstrates carbohydrate feeding spares muscle but not liver glycogen utilization during high-intensity interval exercise.

We examined liver and muscle glycogen utilization during high-intensity interval cycling, and the impact of carbohydrate (CHO) feeding, using noninvasive 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Following 24 h of standardized dietary intake, nine male cyclists completed 8 × 5-min intervals (1-min recovery), ingesting either placebo (PLA), 60 g maltodextrin (CHO), or 60 g maltodextrin plus caffeine, taurine, l-theanine, l-citrulline, and citicoline (CHO+) in a randomized crossover design. 13C MRS and 1H imaging were performed pre- and postexercise to determine liver and muscle glycogen and liver volume, respectively. Liver glycogen utilization was not significantly different between trials (P = 0.101) despite lower postexercise plasma glucagon concentrations in CHO and CHO+ (P = 0.001). In contrast, muscle glycogen utilization was significantly lower (∼40%) with CHO feeding compared with PLA (P = 0.006), yet this sparing effect was not evident with CHO+ (P = 0.073) in accordance with a higher mean power output during the late intervals (+2.8%, P = 0.046). Plasma glucose was comparable between trials (P = 0.175), whereas plasma lactate was higher in CHO+ versus CHO (P = 0.003), alongside lower blood bicarbonate (P = 0.005), base excess (P < 0.001), and total CO2 (P = 0.004). These findings demonstrate preferential use of skeletal muscle glycogen during high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which is attenuated under conditions of CHO feeding. This sparing effect is, however, not evident with the coingestion of a caffeine-containing multi-ingredient blend, potentially due to an increased capacity to sustain higher power outputs resulting in greater glycogen utilization.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using 13C MRS, we provide data demonstrating preferential use of skeletal muscle glycogen during HIIT. Furthermore, data show muscle glycogen utilization is attenuated with CHO feeding, yet sparing is not evident when coingesting a caffeine-containing formulation, potentially reflecting increased capacity to perform more total work rather than a direct metabolic effect of caffeine. In contrast, liver glycogen utilization was not significantly different with CHO feeding despite a modest reduction of ∼5 g versus placebo.

Male↗

PubMed2026

Mapping the Molecular Evolution and Role of Wild Rice GLYIII Protein-Encoding Genes in Abiotic Stress Response.

To address the need for sustainable food production amid rapid global climate change, developing rice varieties that grow optimally even under harsh conditions is essential. An effective approach in this direction would be to harness the stress resilience traits of the crop wild relatives (CWRs) of rice. Among the various crucial stress-responsive genes, the Glyoxalase III (GLYIII) gene family is of utmost importance for its ability to detoxify the toxic glycolytic byproduct, methylglyoxal (MG), in a less energy-intensive, single-step process, as well as for its multifaceted cytoprotective role. In our study, a comprehensive genome-wide search across the Oryza genus revealed that GLYIII genes are conserved across wild rice genotypes. Their number has expanded during domestication, driven by gene duplications. Interestingly, only a few orthologous pairs showed positive selection, suggesting that the functions of most others need to be constrained and or conserved.We found that higher GLYIII activity, Total Antioxidant Capacity, endogenous glutathione (GSH) levels, and free radical scavenging activity contributes to the stress resilience of wild rices O. punctata, O. meridionalis, and O. nivara, in addition to other factors. , , . , . Our qRT-PCR analysis revealed differential expression of the OpGLYIII, OmGLYIII, and OnGLYIII genes across different developmental stages and in response to various abiotic stresses. Furthermore, we report that wild rice GLYIII proteins, specifically OpGLYIII-3, OmGLYIII-3, and OnGLYIII-5, exhibit high catalytic efficiency over a broad pH range and at higher temperatures under in vitro assay conditions. Overexpression of these proteins was found to impart substantial stress resilience to the transformed E. coli cells. These findings collectively suggest that GLYIII proteins constitute a key component of the abiotic stress response machinery in wild rice.

Oryza↗

PubMed2026

Meta-analysis of growth and inactivation kinetics of Legionella.

Quantitative risk assessments intended to inform evidence-based water management plans and public health targets for Legionella in engineered water systems are constrained by fragmented and heterogeneous growth and inactivation kinetics. We conducted a meta-analysis of 25 growth and 39 thermal- and chemical-inactivation studies, fitting microbial persistence models to harmonize parameters. Nonlinear models outperformed first-order formulations, indicating that lag phases and resistant or protected subpopulations are central to Legionella persistence. Random forest analysis identified environmental and methodological drivers of variability based on 226 growth rates and reduction times for thermal (209) and chemical (135) inactivation. Growth was primarily governed by temperature, nutrient availability, and compatible Legionella-host pairings; thermal inactivation by quantification method, temperature, and turbidity; and chemical inactivation by inoculum size, disinfectant type, concentration, and host-associations. Accordingly, temperature-dependent growth parameters and exposure metrics for heat, free-chlorine, and monochloramine, expressed as TT (Temperature×time) and CT (Concentration×time), were derived as condition-specific inputs for predictive models. Growth optima around 37-40 °C, together with lag-time estimates, indicate that hot-water temperature setbacks and energy-saving practices may favor Legionella proliferation under repeated or prolonged lukewarm exposure. Culture- and viability-based TT differences highlight the need to consider viable‑but-non-culturable persistence in monitoring programs. CT comparisons suggest monochloramine may be advantageous because of its lower apparent sensitivity to host-associated protection. Although limited by restricted experimental conditions, the findings show that predictive models should account for microbial ecology, water matrix effects, and quantification endpoints. Future kinetic studies should prioritize realistic multi-host systems, strain pre-adaptation, complementary viability measurements, and standardized protocols and reporting to ensure reproducibility and enable robust system-level predictive modeling.

Legionella↗

PubMed2026

Genome-wide insights into the evolutionary and demographic history of the red alga Mazzaella laminarioides: Evidence for speciation with ancient migration along the southeast Pacific coast.

The mechanisms driving lineage divergence in red algae remain unexplored, despite the group's remarkable diversity and ancient evolutionary history. The red alga Mazzaella laminarioides, a Chilean intertidal species complex composed of three parapatric cryptic lineages (North, Center, South), offers a valuable system to evaluate these processes, as its life history combines severe dispersal limitation with a haploid-diploid cycle that may influence the emergence of reproductive barriers. We reconstructed its evolutionary history using whole-genome sequencing and nuclear genome assembly of representative individuals from each lineage. Phylogenomic analyses based on 1,507 single-copy orthologs recovered three deeply divergent lineages with limited nuclear discordance consistent with incomplete lineage sorting. For both splits, demographic modelling was most consistent with an Ancient Migration scenario, although support over strict isolation was moderate, suggesting that divergence may have begun with low asymmetric ancestral gene flow followed by subsequent loss of connectivity, demographic bottlenecks, and later population expansion. Coding sequence analyses revealed lineage-specific dN/dS heterogeneity; only one South-lineage locus passed FDR correction (metaxin-1, mitochondrial protein import), with two further South-lineage candidates in chlorophyll and heme biosynthesis falling below the FDR threshold. Together, these signals suggest that divergent selective pressures on energy acquisition may have contributed to divergence at the southern end of the distribution. These results add to the small but growing body of whole-genome data for red algae and, alongside recent macroalgal studies, suggest that ancestral connectivity could be a recurrent feature of lineage divergence even in marine organisms with extremely restricted dispersal.

Rhodophyta↗

PubMed2026

Integrated exome and mitochondrial genome sequencing reveals the genetic landscape of primary mitochondrial diseases: findings from a large Tunisian cohort.

Primary mitochondrial diseases are a heterogeneous group of neurometabolic disorders recognized as the most common metabolic genetic diseases. They manifest at any age, affecting any tissue or organ, especially those with high energy demands, and are caused by pathogenic variants in both mitochondrial and nuclear genomes. Here, we aimed to describe the genetic spectrum of a Tunisian pediatric cohort with suspected mitochondrial diseases. We recruited 47 unrelated families who underwent exome sequencing as a first-tier test followed by whole mitochondrial genome sequencing for unsolved cases. Dedicated bioinformatic pipelines and prediction tools were used to determine the potential disease-causing variants. Sanger sequencing confirmed the presence and segregation within parents. For the newly identified variants, structural modeling was conducted to study the impact of these variants on protein structure and motions. Dual genome sequencing yielded a molecular diagnosis in 33/47 families (70%) and 18/47 (38%) showed disease-causing variants in genes encoding mitochondrial proteins. Among them, four families disclosed novel variants in FASTKD2, SERAC1 and GATB, which were supported by in-depth in silico and structural analyses demonstrating their deleterious effect. The remaining families (32%, 15/47) disclosed other metabolic and neurological disorders. An exome-first strategy delivers a high diagnostic yield in Tunisia, where consanguinity remains high and simultaneously captures mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial etiologies. Mitochondrial sequencing remains indispensable in the case of an inconclusive exome. Thus, our data expand the clinical and genetic spectrum of primary mitochondrial diseases in Tunisia, an underrepresented and admixed population.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

ScRNA-seq analysis reveals the effects of nitrite stress on the endocrine system of the eyestalk in Litopenaeus vannamei.

Nitrite is a harmful substance generated in Litopenaeus vannamei farming systems, largely originating from the inadequate breakdown of surplus feed and shrimp feces. Its accumulation in the water can affect the growth and physiological functions of shrimp, damage the immune system, and even cause mass mortality, thus becoming a key environmental factor restricting the green development of the industry. Under nitrite stress, the eyestalk, as an important neuroendocrine regulatory center in crustaceans, participates in the stress adaptation of the organism and exerts a protective effect by regulating energy metabolism and immune function. However, the molecular regulatory mechanism of the eyestalk in response to nitrite stress remains unclear. In this study, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology was used to analyze the heterogeneity of eyestalk cells in L. vannamei under nitrite stress. A total of 18, 394 high-quality cells were obtained, and six major cell subpopulations, including Neurosecretory cell, Motor neuron, Sensory neuron, Interneuron, Neurogliocyte, and Support cell, were identified. Differential expression analysis identified 839 differentially expressed genes, and different cell types showed distinct specific responses to nitrite stress. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that pathways such as glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, ribosome function, and endoplasmic reticulum protein processing were significantly activated, while signal transduction and DNA repair-related pathways were inhibited. Further analysis revealed that nitrite stress could induce mitochondrial function changes and trigger oxidative stress, thereby affecting the neuroendocrine system function of the eyestalk. This study provided insights into transcriptomic responses of the eyestalk to nitrite stress at the single-cell level, laying a theoretical foundation for the management of aquaculture environments.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Transcriptomic insights into the coordinated regulation of signaling, apoptosis, immunity, and metabolism during Sinonovacula constricta larval metamorphosis.

Metamorphosis is a critical ontogenetic transition for marine bivalves, marking the shift from planktonic to benthic lifestyles, where successful transformation dictates survival. The razor clam Sinonovacula constricta is economically important; however, low larval metamorphosis rates remain a major bottleneck in seedling production. To elucidate the mechanisms governing this process, we performed a comparative transcriptome analysis of S. constricta larvae at pre- and post-metamorphosis stages using Illumina sequencing. A total of 3701 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, including 3254 up-regulated and 447 down-regulated genes. Functional annotation of the respective top 20 significantly up-regulated and down-regulated DEGs indicated their potential pivotal roles in signal transduction (e.g., up-regulated: CAV1, CHRNA2; down-regulated: APP, NOTCH1), cellular proliferation and differentiation (e.g., up-regulated: TUBA, EGF1; down-regulated: KIF23, TTC25), transcriptional and epigenetic regulation (e.g., up-regulated: NFIL3; down-regulated: OVO, HMX1), substance transport (e.g., up-regulated: LRP2, LRP1B; down-regulated: SLC51A, Slc33a1), substance metabolism (e.g., up-regulated: CPK3, CYP26A1; down-regulated: RDMT1, ADAC), immunomodulation (e.g., up-regulated: CPN2, CRISP2), and protein homeostasis (e.g., up-regulated: HSP27, NAS-27). Functional enrichment analysis further revealed that DEGs were significantly enriched in pathways related to signal transduction and developmental regulation (e.g., Ras, TNF), cell death and homeostasis (e.g., apoptosis), immune responses (e.g., Toll-like receptor), energy metabolism (e.g., lipid), cardiovascular related (e.g., Fluid shear stress), cell junction and architecture (e.g., Tight junction), and infectious disease (e.g., measles). These results suggest a synergistic interplay between signaling, apoptosis, immunity, and metabolism during S. constricta metamorphosis. This study advances our understanding of marine bivalve metamorphosis and offers candidate genes for further mechanistic studies.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Orthoplastic management of open calcaneal fractures: A systematic review of flap selection and complications.

BACKGROUND: Open calcaneal fractures are rare, high-energy injuries involving extensive soft-tissue loss and comminuted bone disruption. Successful management depends on coordinated orthoplastic reconstruction to achieve stable fixation and durable coverage. Multiple flap types have been described, yet comparative outcomes remain poorly defined. METHODS: A systematic review was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420251138394). MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Scopus were searched from January 2000 to July 2025. Studies reporting flap-based reconstruction for open calcaneal fractures in adults were included. Extracted data included flap type, fixation method, follow-up duration, and complications such as infection, necrosis, vascular crises, flap loss, and amputation. RESULTS: Thirteen studies comprising 88 major flap reconstructions were analysed. Overall flap survival was 97.7%, with two failures (both muscle/myocutaneous). Fasciocutaneous flaps showed the lowest complication rates (8.3%) with no reported cases of infection, while muscle/myocutaneous flaps demonstrated cases of infection (20%) and accounted for both flap failures and the only reported amputation. Chimeric flaps were increasingly used in recent series (n = 32), achieving reliable survival but higher vascular compromise (6.3%). Osteocutaneous flaps were rare (n = 4) and primarily used for defects with bone loss, showing infection in 50% of cases. Meta-analysis was not possible due to heterogeneity and small sample sizes. CONCLUSIONS: Fasciocutaneous flaps provide reliable, low-complication coverage for clean wounds, while muscle flaps remain valuable for contamination or complex cases with extensive tissue loss. Chimeric, and osteocutaneous flaps show promise, but larger, standardised studies are needed to clarify their roles in hindfoot reconstruction.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Illicium verum polysaccharide targets fimbriae and flagella to disrupt biofilm and inhibit multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli proliferation.

The widespread dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli has led to a decrease in the efficacy of antibiotics, posing severe challenges to clinical anti-infective therapy. Owing to their safety, multitarget activities, and low risk of inducing drug resistance, plant polysaccharides represent a promising alternative strategy. In this study, an acidic polysaccharide (IVP-3) was isolated and purified from the medicinal and edible plant Illicium verum, and it was found to inhibit MDR E. coli colonization by disrupting its biofilm. The Mw of IVP-3 was determined to be 35.566 kDa. Its backbone consists of →4)-α-D-GalpA-6-OMe-(1→, →4)-α-D-GalpA-(1→, →4)-β-D-Galp-(1→, and →3,4)-α-D-GalpA-(1 → residues, whereas the branched chain is composed of α-L-Araf-(1 → 5)-α-L-Araf-(1 → attached to the O-5 position of →2,5)-α-L-Araf-(1→, which is further linked to the O-3 position of the backbone. Mechanistically, IVP-3 disrupts the structure of fimbriae and flagella, inhibits bacterial motility, effectively prevents initial biofilm adhesion, and eradicates preformed mature biofilms. Additionally, IVP-3 damages cell membrane integrity, disrupts the proton motive force, and induces energy metabolism disorder, efflux pump inhibition, and oxidative stress, ultimately leading to bacterial lysis. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of natural antibacterial agents targeting MDR E. coli biofilms and for the high-value utilization of Illicium verum.

Biofilms↗

PubMed2026

Effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP051 Probiotic on Body Composition, Microbiome and Mood in Healthy Overweight Adults.

Obesity and mental health disorders are among the greatest public health challenges of the 21st century. Interestingly, an altered microbiome profile has been associated with both conditions. The aim of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with a specific probiotic strain (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP051) on body composition and gut microbiome balance, together with measures of mood state, in a population of healthy overweight subjects. Sixty healthy, moderately stressed, nondepressed and overweight or obese volunteers were supplemented for 12 weeks with probiotic (L. plantarum KABP051; 1 billion colony forming units/day) or placebo (microcrystalline cellulose). The KABP051 group experienced significantly greater improvements compared with placebo on body composition measurements, including a reduction in body weight and waist circumference, which decreased in 1.97 ± 0.77 (mean ± SE) kg and 2.15 ± 0.81 (mean ± SE) cm versus placebo at the end of the intervention (both P < .05, mixed model for repeated measures [MMRM] and post-hoc analysis). Microbiome composition improved in KABP051 group, with significant increase in the relative abundance of Lactiplantibacillus spp. versus placebo. Body fat percentage, profile of mood states fatigue, and confusion sub-scores showed a global trend toward improvement compared with placebo, with the change at 12 weeks being significant in the three measurements in post-hoc analysis (P = .015, P = .014, and P = .016, respectively). No serious adverse events were registered during the intervention period. These results suggest that a specific strain of probiotic bacteria (L. plantarum KABP051) may have both metabolic and psychobiotic effects and may be beneficial for enhancing weight loss and body composition, improving energy (less fatigue) and mood levels while embarking on a healthy lifestyle regimen. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06808061.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

An automated geometric modeling framework in GATE for the design and optimization of high-sensitivity converging-beam SPECT collimators.

Objective.The trade-off between detection sensitivity and spatial resolution is a fundamental challenge in designing organ-dedicated Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) collimators. While converging-hole geometries offer a solution, their optimization is often hindered by the lack of flexible computational tools capable of modeling large-scale, non-parallel hole arrays. This study aims to develop an automated geometric modeling framework to facilitate the design and evaluation of complex converging- and diverging-hole collimators within standard Monte Carlo environments.Approach.We developed a specialized modeling framework by implementing custom C++ classes and a vector-based alignment algorithm within GATE. This platform enables automated, orientation-consistent construction of large-scale converging arrays not natively supported by standard implementations. A high-sensitivity pure cone-beam collimator (CBC) was designed using this framework. The evaluation used hot-rod, disc, and Jaszczak phantoms for physical characterization, while XCAT and dedicated brain models were employed for clinical tasks, including cardiac, brain perfusion, and DaTscan SPECT simulations.Main results.The CBC achieved a nearly fourfold sensitivity increase compared to a conventional low-energy high-resolution parallel-hole collimator at a 20 cm radius of rotation, while maintaining comparable spatial resolution. Despite a 52.3% field of view reduction, the CBC yielded a 2.2-fold noise reduction (CV: 11.7% vs 25.9%) and mitigated partial volume effects via geometric magnification. XCAT and brain phantom simulations confirmed enhanced anatomical definition and contrast recovery in cardiac, perfusion, and DaTscan tasks.Significance.This work provides an efficient computational tool for rapid design space exploration of advanced collimator geometries. The results demonstrate that the proposed CBC design offers a significant sensitivity advantage, making it highly suitable for high-performance, small-volume clinical applications such as brain and cardiac molecular imaging.

Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon↗

PubMed2026

The Soundtrack of Everyday Life: Real-world Music Listening Habits of Adult Cochlear Implant Users.

OBJECTIVE: Characterize real-world patterns of music listening and reward sensitivity among adult cochlear implant (CI) users compared with normal-hearing (NH) listeners. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional observational study. SETTING: Online. PATIENTS: Adults (≥18 y) with a CI or NH who used a music-streaming platform as their primary listening method. INTERVENTIONS: None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Objective measures included platform-derived audio features (acousticness, danceability, energy, tempo, and valence), listening volume, unique-song ratio, and decade preferences. Self-reported measures included listening habits and the Barcelona Music Reward Questionnaire (BMRQ). Group comparisons used ANCOVAs and mixed-effect models adjusting for age and gender; within-CI analyses compared prelingual versus postlingual deafness. RESULTS: Among 16 CI users (69% male, 39.0±15.6 y) and 29 NH listeners (38% male, 32.2±11.3 y), CI users demonstrated a higher unique-song ratio (β=-0.157, CI as reference; 95%CI [-0.281, -0.034]; P =0.014) and stronger preference for older music (Pillai trace=0.537; F8,35 =5.07; P <0.001), adjusting for age. No significant group differences were observed in weekly listening time, listening volume, audio features, or BMRQ scores (total and subscores). Equivalence was confirmed for Emotion Evocation and Sensory-Motor subscales. There were no statistically significant differences in listening environments after Holm correction. No statistically detectable differences were observed between pre- and postlingually deafened CI users. CONCLUSIONS: Musically active CI users showed no significant differences in listening volume or overall music-reward sensitivity compared with NH peers, but demonstrated higher unique-song ratios and a bias toward older music. Findings highlight the value of ecologically valid data in understanding real-world music experiences among CI users.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Integrated miRNA-mRNA profiling reveals candidate regulatory relationships associated with high-fat diet-induced muscle lipid deposition in black seabream (Acanthopagrus schlegelii).

High-fat diets are increasingly used in aquaculture due to their protein-sparing effects; however, the post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms of fish muscle in response to high-fat diets (HFD) remain unclear. In this study, juvenile black seabream were fed either a normal-fat diet (NFD) or a HFD to investigate the miRNA-mRNA regulatory network associated with diet-induced muscle lipid deposition. Oil Red O staining and biochemical analysis showed that high-fat diet feeding markedly increased lipid droplet accumulation and crude lipid content in muscle, indicating significant induction of muscle lipid deposition. Integrated mRNA and miRNA expression profiling revealed substantial transcriptomic and post-transcriptional responses to high-fat diet challenge. A total of 271 differentially expressed genes were identified, including 120 upregulated and 151 downregulated genes. Through combined target prediction and expression correlation analysis, thirteen candidate inverse miRNA-mRNA relationships were subsequently identified, and RT-qPCR supported the expression patterns of selected miRNAs and mRNAs. These pairs included miR-499-x-dmgdh, miR-499-y-gatm, miR-727-y-ass1, miR-4649-x-foxo4, miR-9129-z-myl7, and several novel miRNA-mediated interactions involving adk, chst11, lypla2, frem2, kcnc4, wars1, bag2, and capn2. Functional analysis suggested that these regulatory pairs were mainly associated with metabolic adaptation, structural remodeling, and cellular stress responses. In particular, gatm, dmgdh, ass1, and adk were associated with energy metabolism-related processes, including pathways previously linked to Ampk regulation, whereas myl7, frem2, and kcnc4 may contribute to muscle structural maintenance and excitability regulation. Overall, this study provides candidate miRNA-mRNA regulatory relationships potentially involved in high-fat diet-induced muscle lipid deposition and adaptive remodeling in black seabream, offering a basis for future functional studies on muscle metabolism and quality regulation in marine fish.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Norgestrel drives mitochondrial collapse and plasma membrane impairment in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) sperm by triggering premature acrosome reaction.

The toxic mechanisms of norgestrel (NGT), an emerging marine pollutant, on the sperm from externally fertilized invertebrates remain elusive. This study employed an integrated physiological and multi-omics framework to elucidate how NGT (10 and 1000 ng/L) disrupts acrosome reaction (AR) signaling machinery, thereby impairing the functional integrity of Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas, also known as Magallana gigas) sperm. Exposure to NGT triggered a significant, dose-dependent premature AR, characterized by elevated acrosin activity and a loss of acrosomal integrity. Multi-omics integration supports a model in which this premature exocytosis is linked to signaling disturbances, including disruption of calcium signaling and reduced transcript abundance of calmodulin (CaM) and the primary recognition protein zonadhesin (Zan). This signaling interference induced an premature AR, subsequently driving a cascade of bioenergetic and structural failures. At the mitochondrial level, NGT induced abnormal mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening and elevated the transcript levels of antioxidant defense genes (e.g., peroxiredoxin-5, PRDX5). These alterations indicate the occurrence of mitochondrial collapse. Concurrently, scanning electron microscopy verified localized plasma membrane wrinkling and pore formation in sperm. In addition, NGT exposure decreased the transcript abundance of cytoskeleton-related genes, including solute carrier family 26 member 6 (SLC26A6), actin (ACT), and tubulin polymerization promoting protein family member 3 (TPPP3). These molecular changes further disrupted membrane phospholipid homeostasis, as represented by altered glycerophospholipid metabolism. At the same time, cumulative cellular stress was associated with decreased transcript abundance of cytoprotective factors (e.g., baculoviral IAP repeat-containing proteins, birc2) and changes in apoptosis-related genes consistent with activation of a caspase-8-mediated apoptotic programme. In conclusion, NGT, as a representative synthetic progestin, exerts reproductive toxicity by interfering with signaling mediators to induce premature AR, which subsequently exhausts metabolic energy and triggers plasma membrane impairment. These findings provide a critical mechanistic basis for the aquatic ecological risk assessment of synthetic progestins.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Responsiveness of muscle mass gain to different load intensities of resistance training in older women: A randomized crossover study.

BACKGROUND: Aging is associated with progressive declines in skeletal muscle mass (SMM) and substantial interindividual variability in adaptations to resistance training (RT). However, whether training load intensity influences hypertrophic responsiveness in older adults remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of two commonly prescribed RT loading schemes (15RM and 10RM) on estimated SMM adaptations and responsiveness in older women. METHODS: Twenty-seven older women (67.7 ± 4.9 years; 65.7 ± 10.6 kg; 154.5 ± 5.8 cm) completed two 8-week RT interventions performed at 15RM and 10RM in a randomized crossover design, separated by a 12-week detraining period. Estimated SMM was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Responsiveness was operationally defined using the standard error of measurement, and participants were classified as responders (RP) or non-responders (N-RP) according to changes in estimated SMM. RESULTS: Both loading schemes promoted significant and comparable increases in estimated SMM (15RM: +0.62 ± 0.4 kg vs. 10RM: +0.43 ± 0.3 kg). Overall, 61.1% of participants were classified as responders in at least one condition, whereas 38.9% were classified as non-responders. Responsiveness status was consistent across conditions for most participants, with 48.1% classified as responders under both loading schemes and 25.9% as non-responders under both conditions. Only seven participants (25.9%) changed responsiveness status between interventions. No clear pattern indicated a greater likelihood of responsiveness with either loading scheme. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that both the 10RM and 15RM RT protocols significantly increase estimated SMM in older women, with no significant differences between training conditions. Although substantial interindividual variability in adaptive responses exists, training load intensity does not appear to meaningfully influence responsiveness status in most individuals. These findings suggest that both loading schemes can be effectively prescribed to promote SMM gains in older women.

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