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Adapting Curriculum for Inclusive Education: Insights from Special Schools in Limpopo Province, South Africa [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Inclusive education requires responsive curriculum adaptation to support learners with diverse communication needs, especially those who lack an effective voice. This article reports on a community engagement initiative in the Sekhukhune District of Limpopo Province, South Africa, aimed at enhancing curriculum adaptation practices in special schools. A central component of this initiative was a workshop on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), facilitated by the Department of Inclusive Education at the University of South Africa (UNISA). The training presented participants with AAC strategies and emphasised differentiated instruction, as well as visual and tactile supports, alongside assistive communication technologies. Guided by the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the workshop encouraged flexible teaching approaches that went beyond content modification to include adaptations in pedagogy, learning materials, and assessment practices. A qualitative design was used, involving 17 participants purposively selected from five special schools. This group comprised teachers, a professional nurse, a social worker, and support staff from each school. Data were gathered through focus group discussions, document analysis, and field notes, and were analysed thematically. The findings revealed systemic barriers such as inadequate professional training, limited resources, and overcrowded classrooms, all of which hindered effective curriculum adaptation. However, participants showed strong commitment to applying the inclusive strategies learned during the workshop. This study highlights the value of university-community partnerships in strengthening inclusive education and emphasises the need for sustained professional development, resource allocation, and intersectoral collaboration to improve curriculum adaptation in rural special schools.in F1000Research on 2026-02-25 08:54:18 UTC.
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Breath-Based Pathogen Detection Technologies for Diagnosing Respiratory Infections: A Scoping Review Protocol [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Accurate and rapid diagnostics are essential for reducing the global burden of respiratory diseases. However, conventional methods have significant limitations. Sputum, while commonly used, presents challenges such as difficulty in collection, variable sample quality, and limited applicability across patient groups. Exhaled breath is a promising diagnostic specimen for direct pathogen detection, while potentially providing insights into infectiousness. The landscape of breath-based detection technologies is rapidly expanding, driven by technological advancements and a growing interest in non-invasive, user-friendly sampling methods. As the field matures, it is important to comprehensively map current innovations with clinical potential, identify use cases and technological gaps, and assess diagnostic accuracy across various respiratory pathogens and syndromes. This scoping review will systematically map breath-based technologies for direct pathogen capture and/or detection, detailing methodologies, diagnostic performance, strengths, limitations, and potential for clinical adoption. The scoping review will be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. We will systematically search MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, and Web of Science for articles published between 1 January 2015 and 19 February 2025, supplemented by grey literature to gather additional information on identified technologies. We will include pre-clinical and clinical studies utilizing exhaled breath aerosol (XBA) or exhaled breath condensate (EBC) for pathogen capture and/or detection. We will exclude studies without performance data from contrived and/or clinical samples. We will also exclude studies reporting solely on volatile organic compounds (VOC)-based detection due to their limited diagnostic specificity. Two reviewers will independently perform title and abstract screening followed by full-text screening, discrepancies will be resolved by consensus or a third reviewer. Data extraction will be conducted by one reviewer and verified by another. Data synthesis will include tabular presentation and narrative summary. Risk of bias assessment will not be included.in F1000Research on 2026-02-25 08:49:43 UTC.
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Evaluation of Cardiac Biomarkers in Serum and Saliva of Heart Failure Patients: A Two-Center Multicenter Study [version 2; peer review: 1 not approved]
Background Salivary biomarkers are being explored as non-invasive tools for Heart failure (HF) monitoring. This study examined salivary N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high sensitive cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) alongside serum levels to distinguish heart failure patients from healthy controls and to assess diagnostic potential and cross-matrix concordance. Method This two-center, prospective case-control study (Nov 2024–Apr 2025) enrolled heart failure patients and healthy controls, diagnosed per European Society of Cardiology criteria and confirmed by labs and echocardiography. Serum and saliva N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) were measured by sandwich ELISA. Samples: 100 serum and 47 saliva from patients; 100 serum and 91 saliva from controls. Biomarkers were limited by serum volume (43 patients; 45 controls); saliva was measured in 47 patients and 45 controls. This limitation reduced the sample size for cardiac biomarker analyses relative to the total collected samples. Results HF patients showed higher serum NT-proBNP (309 [220–399] ng/L) and salivary NT-proBNP (24 [21–29] ng/L) versus controls (77 [63–106] ng/L; 18 [15–22] ng/L; P < 0.001). Serum hs-cTnI rose non-significantly (90 [69–101] vs 66 [35–115] pg/mL; P = 0.080); salivary hs-cTnI was higher (22 [13–24] vs 4 [3–8] pg/mL; P < 0.001). Salivary NT-proBNP correlated with serum NT-proBNP (r = 0.540; P < 0.001). Salivary creatinine (r = 0.606; P < 0.001) and uric acid (r = −0.178; P = 0.037) associated with serum levels. ROC: serum NT-proBNP AUC 0.97; salivary NT-proBNP 0.77; serum hs-cTnI 0.60; salivary hs-cTnI 0.88. Conclusion Serum NT-proBNP remains the strongest HF diagnostic biomarker. Salivary NT-proBNP and hs-cTnI show diagnostic potential and moderate concordance with serum, suggesting saliva as a complementary non-invasive HF monitor. Limited sample availability and need for standardization limit generalizability.in F1000Research on 2026-02-25 08:42:10 UTC.
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Chính sách đối ngoại của Việt Nam (1945-1946): Chủ động trong một nền độc lập mong manh. [version 3; peer review: 1 approved, 1 approved with reservations, 3 not approved]
Background The August Revolution of 1945 established the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, but the nascent government immediately faced immense challenges from external forces like French colonialists and Chiang Kai-shek’s army, alongside internal difficulties. In this precarious situation, diplomacy emerged as a crucial strategic tool for the Vietnamese revolution during the 1945-1946 period, demonstrating a skillful blend of struggle and negotiation to safeguard independence. Methods This study is grounded in the principles of dialectical and historical materialism, consistent with the viewpoint of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The main methods include: the historical method (systematic examination of events and policies), the logical method (reconstructing diplomatic strategies), intertextual analysis (comparing Party directives with diplomatic actions), critical discourse analysis (Ho Chi Minh’s statements), and comparative assessment (with other decolonization movements). Data were collected from declassified archival materials, legal texts, diplomatic records, and contemporary press. Results During 1945-1946, Vietnam implemented an independent, self-reliant, and open foreign policy based on principles of equality and mutual assistance, with the core objective of protecting independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. This policy demonstrated strategic flexibility by conciliating Chiang Kai-shek’s forces to free up resources against the French, and by signing the Preliminary Accord and Provisional Agreement with France to gain time for resistance preparation. Vietnamese diplomacy also proactively established friendly relations with neighboring countries and major powers, sought international recognition, and committed to multilateral cooperation, thereby strengthening the legitimacy of the revolutionary government. Conclusion In an extremely challenging situation, foreign affairs activities, under the leadership of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh, successfully protected Vietnam’s independence and enhanced the Democratic Republic of Vietnam’s prestige. The strategic lessons on foreign policy thinking from 1945-1946 have become a firm foundation for Vietnam’s modern foreign policy. They emphasize the harmonious combination of national independence, socialism, genuine patriotism, and internationalism, striving towards the ultimate goal of building a “prosperous people, strong country, democracy, justice, and civilization” in Vietnam.in F1000Research on 2026-02-25 08:22:13 UTC.
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Unexpected Evolutionary Divergence of Tachykinin‐Positive Neurons Innervating the Central Complex in Hexapods
The central complex is a group of midline-spanning neuropils in the brain of insects with a key role in goal-directed orientation and navigation. Immunolabeling in 25 species, ranging from bristletails to flies, shows that neurons containing peptides of the tachykinin family of neuropeptides are present in most species studied. Often, sets of columnar neurons show immunostaining, but the types of labeled neurons differ considerably, possibly related to species-specific differences in navigational requirements.
ABSTRACT
The central complex comprises an assemblage of midline-spanning neuropils in the brain of insects that play a key role in goal-directed orientation and navigation vector calculation. The central complex consists of layers of tangential input neurons that contact topographically organized columnar neurons which provide outputs to the right and left brain hemispheres. Its anatomical organization and functional role are regarded as highly conserved across insects. In addition to classical neurotransmitters, a wide range of neuropeptides have been detected in the central complex including peptides of the tachykinin family. Because the cellular identity of tachykinin-containing neurons in the central complex has not been determined in most cases, we used antisera against tachykinin I and II from the migratory locust, termed Lom-TKs, to identify the immunolabeled neurons in hexapods ranging from flightless two-pronged bristletails to flies. The data show that LomTK-related peptides are present in the central complex of all studied species except crickets. In most species one or several types of columnar neurons were immunolabeled, sometimes together with certain subsystems of tangential input neurons. The types of immunolabeled columnar neurons, however, are distinctly different between species from different orders, in some cases even between insects within the same order, and comprise cell types that innervate either the upper or lower division of the central body. This high degree of evolutionary divergence of tachykinin-positive neurons, even in closely related groups, may be related to species-specific differences in navigational requirements and calls for caution with respect to homologizing neurons across clades.
in Journal of Comparative Neurology on 2026-02-25 07:54:31 UTC.
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Analysis of research on gamification, critical thinking and academic performance: A systematic review in the context of higher education [version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 1 approved with reservations]
Gamification has become relevant in the field of higher education, facilitating the teaching and learning process. There are studies that show a positive relationship between gamification and academic performance. A systematic literature review was developed, applying the prism method and using three databases: Scopus, WOS and Scielo. The results indicate a notorious orientation of the studies towards quantitative research. Ninety-two percent of the selected documents have students as their population, while 6% are oriented to teachers and 2% to both. In the more in-depth results, it can be demonstrated that gamification is linked to the generation of critical thinking and the improvement of academic performance in the context of higher education. The analysis of theoretical structures reveals that the most relevant approaches for the study of gamification are self-determination and gamified learning. It is also evident that there is a positive relationship between gamification and motivation in learning processes, which allows encouraging the development of critical thinking and the improvement of academic performance.in F1000Research on 2026-02-25 07:32:16 UTC.
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Probability-Invariant Random Walk Learning on Gyral Folding-Based Cortical Similarity Networks for Alzheimer's and Lewy Body Dementia Diagnosis
arXiv:2602.17557v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Lewy body dementia (LBD) present overlapping clinical features yet require distinct diagnostic strategies. While neuroimaging-based brain network analysis is promising, atlas-based representations may obscure individualized anatomy. Gyral folding-based networks using three-hinge gyri provide a biologically grounded alternative, but inter-individual variability in cortical folding results in inconsistent landmark correspondence and highly irregular network sizes, violating the fixed-topology and node-alignment assumptions of most existing graph learning methods, particularly in clinical datasets where pathological changes further amplify anatomical heterogeneity. We therefore propose a probability-invariant random-walk-based framework that classifies individualized gyral folding networks without explicit node alignment. Cortical similarity networks are built from local morphometric features and represented by distributions of anonymized random walks, with an anatomy-aware encoding that preserves permutation invariance. Experiments on a large clinical cohort of AD and LBD subjects show consistent improvements over existing gyral folding and atlas-based models, demonstrating robustness and potential for dementia diagnosis.in arXiv: Quantitative Biology: Neurons and Cognition on 2026-02-25 05:00:00 UTC.
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Enhancing Heat Sink Efficiency in MOSFETs using Physics Informed Neural Networks: A Systematic Study on Coolant Velocity Estimation
arXiv:2602.20177v1 Announce Type: new Abstract: In this work, we present a methodology using Physics Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) to determine the required velocity of a coolant, given inlet and outlet temperatures for a given heat flux in a multilayered metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET). MOSFETs are integral components of Power Electronic Building Blocks (PEBBs) and experiences the majority of the thermal load. Effective cooling of MOSFETs is therefore essential to prevent overheating and potential burnout. Determining the required velocity for the purpose of effective cooling is of importance but is an ill-posed inverse problem and difficult to solve using traditional methods. MOSFET consists of multiple layers with different thermal conductivities, including aluminum, pyrolytic graphite sheets (PGS), and stainless steel pipes containing flowing water. We propose an algorithm that employs sequential training of the MOSFET layers in PINNs. Mathematically, the sequential training method decouples the optimization of each layer by treating the parameters of other layers as constants during its training phase. This reduces the dimensionality of the optimization landscape, making it easier to find the global minimum for each layer's parameters and avoid poor local minima. Convergence of the PINNs solution to the analytical solution is theoretically analyzed. Finally we show the prediction of our proposed methodology to be in good agreement with experimental results.in arXiv: Computer Science: Neural and Evolutionary Computing on 2026-02-25 05:00:00 UTC.
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Body-Reservoir Governance in Repeated Games: Embodied Decision-Making, Dynamic Sentinel Adaptation, and Complexity-Regularized Optimization
arXiv:2602.20846v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Standard game theory explains cooperation in repeated games through conditional strategies such as Tit-for-Tat (TfT), but these require continuous computation that imposes physical costs on embodied agents. We propose a three-layer Body-Reservoir Governance (BRG) architecture: (1) a body reservoir (echo state network) whose $d$-dimensional state performs implicit inference over interaction history, serving as both decision-maker and anomaly detector, (2) a cognitive filter providing costly strategic tools activated on demand, and (3) a metacognitive governance layer with receptivity parameter $\alpha \in [0,1]$. At full body governance ($\alpha=1$), closed-loop dynamics satisfy a self-consistency equation: cooperation is expressed as the reservoir's fixed point, not computed. Strategy complexity cost is defined as the KL divergence between the reservoir's state distribution and its habituated baseline. Body governance reduces this cost, with action variance decreasing up to $1600\times$ with dimension $d$. A dynamic sentinel generates a composite discomfort signal from the reservoir's own state, driving adaptive $\alpha(t)$: near baseline during cooperation, rapidly dropping upon defection to activate cognitive retaliation. Overriding the body incurs thermodynamic cost proportional to internal state distortion. The sentinel achieves the highest payoff across all conditions, outperforming static body governance, TfT, and EMA baselines. A dimension sweep ($d \in \{5,\ldots,100\}$) shows implicit inference scales with bodily richness ($23\times$ to $1600\times$ variance reduction), attributable to reservoir dynamics. A phase diagram in $(d, \tau_{\mathrm{env}})$ space reveals governance regime transitions near $d \approx 20$. The framework reinterprets cooperation as the minimum-dissipation response of an adapted dynamical system -- emergent from embodied dynamics rather than computed.in arXiv: Computer Science: Neural and Evolutionary Computing on 2026-02-25 05:00:00 UTC.
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Stochastic Quantum Spiking Neural Networks with Quantum Memory and Local Learning
arXiv:2506.21324v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Neuromorphic and quantum computing have recently emerged as promising paradigms for advancing artificial intelligence, each offering complementary strengths. Neuromorphic systems built on spiking neurons excel at processing time series data efficiently through sparse, event-driven computation, consuming energy only upon input events. Quantum computing, on the other hand, operates on state spaces that grow exponentially in dimension with the number of qubits -- as a consequence of tensor-product composition -- with quantum states admitting superposition across basis states and entanglement between subsystems. Hybrid approaches combining these paradigms have begun to show potential, but existing quantum spiking models have important limitations. Notably, they implement classical memory mechanisms on single qubits, requiring repeated measurements to estimate firing probabilities, while relying on conventional backpropagation for training. In this paper, we propose a novel stochastic quantum spiking (SQS) neuron model that addresses these challenges. The SQS neuron uses multi-qubit quantum circuits to realize a spiking unit with internal quantum memory, enabling event-driven probabilistic spike generation in a single shot during inference. Furthermore, we study networks of SQS neurons, dubbed SQS neural networks (SQSNN), and demonstrate that they can be trained via a hardware-friendly local learning rule, eliminating the need for global classical backpropagation. The proposed SQSNN model is shown via experiments with both conventional and neuromorphic datasets to improve over previous quantum spiking neural networks, as well as over classical counterparts, when fixing the overall number of trainable parameters.in arXiv: Computer Science: Neural and Evolutionary Computing on 2026-02-25 05:00:00 UTC.
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The Age at Onset of LRRK2 p.Gly2019Ser Parkinson's Disease Across Ancestries and Countries of Origin
Objectives
The objective of this study was to elucidate differences in the cumulative incidence of Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) p.Gly2019Ser-related Parkinson's disease (PD; LRRK2-PD) between ancestries and countries.
Methods
We included 922 unrelated p.Gly2019Ser variant carriers (affected = 762 and unaffected = 160) from the Global Parkinson's Genetics Program (GP2) in addition to cohorts recruited from the Israeli Ashkenazi Jewish and Tunisian Arab-Berber population. Cox proportional hazard models were applied to examine differences in cumulative incidence across ancestry groups and countries. All analyses were adjusted for biological sex and were exploratory.
Results
The median age at onset (AAO) of LRRK2-PD was 5 years younger in the North African (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.18–1.86, p = 7.0 × 10−4) compared with the European ancestry group. In contrast, the median AAO was 5 years older in the Ashkenazi Jewish (HR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.50–0.75, p = 4.0 × 10−6) compared with the European ancestry group. Additionally, patients from Israel (HR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.30–1.39, p = 4.0 × 10−6) and Tunisia (HR = 2.57, 95% CI: 2.16–3.06, P < 2.0 × 10−16) had a median 5-year and 10-year younger AAO compared with patients from the United States, respectively. Last, when focusing only on individuals with an Ashkenazi Jewish background, patients from Israel still had a younger AAO than those from the United States (HR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.48–2.24, p = 1.5 × 10−8). Analogously, assessing only patients from the United States, the Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry group still had an older AAO than the European ancestry group (HR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.39–0.67, p = 1.3 × 10−6).
Interpretation
Our results provide evidence that a person's genetic ancestry and country of origin are associated with the AAO of LRRK2-PD. This highlights the potential impact of both genetic and environmental factors on LRRK2-PD AAO. ANN NEUROL 2026
in Annals of Neurology on 2026-02-25 04:07:30 UTC.
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Pop-up journals for policy research: can temporary titles deliver answers?
Nature, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00446-7
Journals that focus on specific research questions could help to bridge the science–policy gap, if they can attract researchers.in Nature on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Targeting de novo pyrimidine synthesis confers vulnerability to copper-mediated ATR inactivation in PARP inhibitor-resistant ovarian cancer
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-70001-5
Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor (PARPi) resistance remains to be a significant challenge to ovarian cancer targeted therapies. Here, the authors employ a small-molecule compound screening to identify elesclomol, a potent copper ionophore, to overcome PARPi-resistance in BRCA-proficient ovarian cancer cells by suppressing the activation of the ATR-CHK1 DNA damage response pathway.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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VRAC coordinates the trade-off between nutrient absorption and antimicrobial defense in enterocytes against inflammation
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-69963-3
Intestinal epithelium is continuously exposed to osmotic changes. Here, the authors show that this volume-regulated anion channel, a key osmo-sensitive ion channel, protects against colitis by balancing nutrient absorption and antimicrobial defense.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Structural and functional implications of phase separation of membrane protein LacY in Escherichia coli
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-69951-7
Phase-separation of the transport protein LacY alters its membrane localization and mobility, preserves its transport activity, reduces cell membrane stress under osmotic upshift, and LacY forms mixed condensates with the enzyme β-galactosidase LacZ.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Highly selective and practical hydrogenation of functionalized (hetero)arenes
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-68537-7
Diastereoselective hydrogenation of multi-substituted (hetero)arenes provides an efficient and industrially valuable route for transforming these compounds into diversified 3D building blocks, with broad applications such as drug discovery. Here, the authors demonstrate that a rationally designed Pt catalyst enables general diastereoselective hydrogenation of a wide variety of multi-substituted and functionalized arenes and heteroarenes under mild conditions.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Evolving epigenomics of immune cells at single-nucleus resolution in children en route to type 1 diabetes
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-69923-x
Islet autoimmunity in patients with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) emerges months to years before clinical disease manifestation. However, the precise drivers of T1D remain elusive. Here, the authors leverage longitudinal samples collected within the context of the TRIGR trial and, by performing single-cell transcriptomics and epigenomics, reveal heightened pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling in the myeloid lineage before autoantibody seroconversion, suggesting that genomic differences influence immune regulation and predisposition to T1D.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Ground-truth encoding of self-motion in the primate cerebellar nodulus and uvula
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-69909-9
How the brain meets these competing demands–and where such a veridical “ground-truth” representation is computed–remains unknown. Here authors show that the cerebellar nodulus/uvula–a region essential for postural control–provides a stable, ground-truth representation of self-motion during voluntary movement, rather than suppressing self-generated signals.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Enabling low-temperature aqueous zinc/copper-sulfur hybrid batteries through electrolyte design
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-69742-0
Aqueous batteries suffer from poor performance in extreme cold. Here, authors design an electrolyte enabling a high-energy zinc-sulfur battery that operates at –50 °C, offering a promising solution for low-temperature energy storage.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Maximizing energy utilization and lithium leaching efficiency via sequential electrochemical dual-oxidation and soaking-relaxation
Nature Communications, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-69834-x
This study introduces a two-stage electrochemical method for lithium recovery from spent LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 (NCM) batteries, achieving over 98% efficiency with nearly 50% less electric energy use via lattice oxygen oxidation and ion exchange.in Nature Communications on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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8,266 SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Assemblies from Asymptomatic Carriers in Japan
Scientific Data, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06871-7
8,266 SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Assemblies from Asymptomatic Carriers in Japanin Nature scientific data on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Heat Stress Metrics for US Census Tracts 1998–2020
Scientific Data, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06909-w
Heat Stress Metrics for US Census Tracts 1998–2020in Nature scientific data on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Heating the orphans: structural asymmetry and thermal energy resolve the delta receptor paradox
Communications Biology, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09753-1
Delta glutamate receptors are no longer considered silent scaffolds. This Comment discusses how GluD2 can be activated by structural asymmetry and temperature, emphasizing its potential role in synaptic plasticity.in Nature communications biology on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Chromatin accessibility landscapes define stromal cell identities across tissues
Communications Biology, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09720-w
Single-cell ATAC-seq across nine mouse tissues reveals tissue-specific and shared chromatin accessibility programs, defining regulatory landscapes and cell identities through differential enhancer activity across organs.in Nature communications biology on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Scalable and multimodal brain angiogenesis and blood-brain barrier genetics by somatic mutagenesis
Communications Biology, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09747-z
The authors introduce a fast, multi-species CRISPR pipeline to decode blood–brain barrier development and function. By pairing zebrafish and mice, candidate genes are rapidly tested for roles in brain angiogenesis and BBB integrity within weeks.in Nature communications biology on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Antibiotic-induced gut microbiome remodeling reduces neuroinflammation in traumatic brain injury
Communications Biology, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09737-1
Short-term oral antibiotics reshape the gut microbiome after single or repeated TBI in male mice, yet reduce lesion volume, apoptosis, gliosis, cytokines, and immune infiltration, revealing SCFA-independent neuroprotection with translational trade-offs.in Nature communications biology on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Anopheles (Kerteszia) cruzii, the main malaria vector in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, is a complex of at least five cryptic species
Communications Biology, Published online: 25 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09700-0
Genome sequencing reveals multiple cryptic species in Atlantic Forest malaria vectors Anopheles cruzii and An. bellator, but not in An. homunculus, highlighting hidden diversity that may affect malaria transmission.in Nature communications biology on 2026-02-25 00:00:00 UTC.
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Investigating the Role of Cortical Microglia in a Mouse Model of Viral Infection-Induced Seizures
Microglia, resident immune sentinels in the brain, are crucial in responding to tissue damage, infection, damage signals like purines (ATP/ADP), and clearing cellular debris. It is currently unknown how microglial reactivity progresses and contributes to seizure development following Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) infection. Previously, it has been demonstrated that purinergic signaling in microglia is disrupted in the hippocampus of TMEV-infected mice. However, whether reactive cortical microglia also exhibit changes in purinergic signaling, cytokine levels, and purinergic receptors is unknown. Thus, we seek to evaluate region-based differences in microglial reactivity in the TMEV model. We employed a custom triple transgenic mouse line expressing tdTomato and GCaMP6f under a CX3CR1 Cre promoter and exogenously applied ATP/ADP to acute brain slice preparations from TMEV-infected mice and controls of either sex. Interestingly and in contrast to what is observed in the hippocampus, we found that despite microglial reactivity in the cortex, microglia can respond to purinergic damage signals and engage calcium signaling pathways, comparable to PBS controls. Using a cytokine panel, we also found that proinflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1α, and IFN-) are brain region dependent in mice infected with TMEV. Using RNAscope FISH, we observed increases in expression of purinergic receptors responsible for microglial motility (P2Y12R) and inflammation (P2X7R) in the cortex. Collectively our results suggest that following TMEV infection, microglial response to novel damage signals, as well as the production of proinflammatory cytokines, varies as a function of the brain region.
in eNeuro on 2026-02-24 17:30:25 UTC.
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Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension and Associated Factors [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background Hypertension (HTN) is the most prevalent preventable risk factor that causes a significant socioeconomic burden associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and is the single most common cause of heart failure and myocardial infarction. Sub-Saharan countries, including Uganda, are still among the worst hit in terms of CVD mortality rates due to hypertension. More than 15 million global disability-adjusted life-years in sub-Saharan Africa are attributable to HTN. Method This was a cross-sectional study conducted among Kampala International University (KIU) staff. A total of 232 KIU staff members were selected randomly from among those who consented, including medical doctors, biomedical staff, and administration staff. The questionnaire was structured into three parts: socio-demographic characteristics, habit and lifestyle, awareness, family history, comorbidities, and clinical assessment. Blood pressure (BP) measurements were performed on the left arm of respondents in a sitting position using the Omron digital BP monitor, and data were entered into Microsoft Excel and exported to SPSS for analyses. Frequencies, percentages, and binary logistic regression were used to identify the risk factors for hypertension (p values < 0.5 were entered. Results Our findings show that high salt intake from patronized western food vendors or processed foods, high alcohol consumption, and smoking were implicated in the high prevalence of hypertension among our respondents within the 25-34years age bracket Conclusion High salt intake from patronized western food vendors or processed foods, high alcohol consumption, and smoking may be risk factors for the onset of HTN, and engagement in physical activities among younger adults can contribute to hypertension-free lives among the respondents and frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables. It is important that awareness of salt intake, alcohol intake, and smoking be propagated, especially among younger staff, in an effort to reduce the incidence of hypertension later in life. Regular health screening of KIU staff is recommended.in F1000Research on 2026-02-24 14:26:37 UTC.
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Hemodynamic impact of acute liver injury on cardiac function: An in silico study via a closed-loop cardiovascular model
by Jiyang Zhang, Zhongyou Li, Lin Feng, Jialu Zhang, Taoping Bai, Wentao Jiang
Acute liver injury and cardiovascular disease interact, forming a mutually exacerbating vicious cycle. However, the dynamic influence of hepatic vascular impedance on cardiac function has not been systematically elucidated. To address this gap, a closed-loop hemodynamic model based on lumped parameters was developed, encompassing the heart, liver, and the systemic arterial and venous circulation. This model was used to analyze how alterations in hepatic vascular impedance influence cardiac function and to provide a theoretical foundation for understanding liver–heart comorbidities. Healthy subjects served as the control group, while acute liver injury was simulated by proportionally increasing hepatic microvascular resistance. Changes in cardiovascular hemodynamic parameters were then systematically compared across conditions. As the severity of acute liver injury increases, the peak aortic flow and total cardiac output significantly decrease, with stroke volume reduced by approximately 17%. The left ventricular end-diastolic volume and stroke work are markedly diminished. Effective arterial elastance increases by about 20.7%, and the left ventricular ejection fraction decreases by approximately 4%. Furthermore, the change in hepatic arterial flow is considerably greater than that in portal vein flow. This closed-loop hemodynamic model reveals that acute liver injury leads to a reduction in preload and an increase in afterload, thereby causing abnormalities in both systolic and diastolic cardiac function. Global sensitivity analysis demonstrated that changes in presinusoidal vascular resistance serve as the major contributors to the resulting cardiac dysfunction. These findings provide a theoretical basis for understanding the interplay between liver and heart, and offer a feasible method for pre-assessing cardiovascular risk in patients prior to liver resection or transplantation.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-24 14:00:00 UTC.
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Fetal inflammatory signals regulate maternal investment during marsupial pregnancy
by Daniel J. Stadtmauer, Jamie D. Maziarz, Oliver W. Griffith, Gunter P. Wagner
Marsupial pregnancy is strikingly short: placental attachment in the gray short-tailed opossum Monodelphis domestica lasts only two days. The attachment period is characterized by a spike in inflammatory signaling, development of an expanded uterine capillary network, and exponential fetal growth. This brevity has historically been attributed to a maternal immune response to fetal contact that only eutherian mammals have evolved mechanisms to tolerate. However, several inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1A (IL-1A) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), are produced primarily by fetal cells. We hypothesized that placental cytokines function as solicitation signals that increase maternal investment. To test this, we treated pregnant opossums with inhibitors of IL-1 and IL-6 during the rapid growth phase. Inhibition of IL-1 and IL-6 signaling significantly increased average biomass per fetus (+14% and +12%), and as such these signals impose costs, rather than direct benefits, to intrauterine growth. However, controls showed greater surviving litter sizes than IL-1-inhibited animals, suggesting that IL-1A promotes offspring survival. Single-cell transcriptomes reveal that maternal vascular endothelial cells, perivascular cells, and fibroblasts are the primary targets of fetal IL-1A, and that maternal cells simultaneously up-regulate IL-1 antagonists IL1R2 and IL1RN late in gestation, suggesting maternal resistance to fetal signaling. Placental transcriptomics reveals that the cytokine surge is restricted to the final day of pregnancy when placental cells fuse to form syncytial knots, and that these cells produce additional vasomodulatory signals including a truncated isoform of VEGFA. We propose that marsupial fetuses co-opted inflammatory signaling to perform a novel solicitation function promoting their and their littermates’ survival, possibly by altering maternal vascular development.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-24 14:00:00 UTC.
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Vasopressin and angiotensin II pathways differentially modulate human fear response dynamics to looming threats
by Mengfan Han, Wenyi Dong, Kun Fu, Junjie Wang, Yuanhang Xu, Yueyuan Zheng, Keith Kendrick, Ferraro Stefania, Ting Xu, Dezhong Yao, Benjamin Becker
While basal threat processing dynamics (e.g., visual looming) are well characterized in animals, the underlying mechanisms and their modulation by neuropeptide systems with different modulatory roles in threat processing (vasopressin, angiotensin II) remain poorly understood in humans. In a randomized, placebo-controlled eye-tracking study (N = 111), we administered vasopressin (AVP) or an angiotensin II receptor blocker (via Losartan, LT) during a time-to-collision threat paradigm. This study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06329076, NCT06329063) on April 11, 2024, prior to participant enrollment. Behaviorally, AVP induced a systematic time overestimation while LT induced temporal compression and reduced state anxiety. Pupillometry revealed distinguishable profiles: AVP induced sustained constriction during stimulus approach followed by post-stimulus threat-specific dilation, LT maintained sustained pupillary constriction throughout both approach and occlusion phases yet preserving threat-specificity, while placebo (PLC) showed no threat-specific modulation. A computational framework (combining Functional Principal Component Analysis, clustering, and Markov chain analysis) underscored the distinct modulations: AVP stabilized a high-arousal state characterized by the co-activation of vigilance, threat-proactive preparation and a shift from perception to internal simulation. LT suppressed transitions to high-arousal states and exhibited maximal sequence entropy, reflecting flexible response patterns—contrasting with placebo’s lowest entropy dynamics. These results demonstrate that AVP and LT differentially regulate basal threat processing via separable neuropeptide pathways: AVP sustains hypervigilance while LT promotes anxiolysis and adaptive flexibility. Our findings suggest neuropeptide pathway-specific targets maladaptive threat processing in trauma- or anxiety-related disorders.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-24 14:00:00 UTC.
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Screening, sorting, and the feedback cycles that imperil peer review
by Carl T. Bergstrom, Kevin Gross
Scholarly journals rely on peer review to identify the science most worthy of publication. Yet finding willing and qualified reviewers to evaluate manuscripts has become an increasingly challenging task, possibly even threatening the long-term viability of peer review as an institution. What can or should be done to salvage it? Here, we develop mathematical models to reveal the intricate interactions among incentives faced by authors, reviewers, and readers in their endeavors to identify the best science. Two facets are particularly salient. First, peer review partially reveals authors’ private sense of their work’s quality through their decisions of where to send their manuscripts. Second, journals’ reliance on traditionally unpaid and largely unrewarded review labor deprives them of a standard market mechanism—wages—to recruit additional reviewers when review labor is in short supply. We highlight a resulting feedback loop that threatens to overwhelm the peer review system: (1) an increase in submissions overtaxes the pool of suitable peer reviewers; (2) the accuracy of review drops because journals must either solicit assistance from less qualified reviewers or ask current reviewers to do more; (3) as review accuracy drops, submissions further increase as more authors try their luck at venues that might otherwise be a stretch. We illustrate how this cycle is propelled by the increasing emphasis on high-impact publications, the proliferation of journals, and competition among these journals for peer reviews. Finally, we suggest interventions that could slow or even reverse this cycle of peer-review meltdown.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-24 14:00:00 UTC.
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Four-second trains of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation increase online corticospinal excitability and pupil size in humans
Journal of Neurophysiology, Ahead of Print.
in Journal of Neurophysiology on 2026-02-24 12:11:35 UTC.
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Market intelligence for exporting agricultural products to foreign markets: A PRISMA-based bibliometric and systematic review [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background International trade in agri-food products faces growing challenges linked to price volatility, trade barriers and information asymmetries, factors that reduce the competitiveness of exporting companies. In this scenario, market intelligence (MI) is positioned as a fundamental tool for strengthening international marketing processes, as it enables the systematic collection and analysis of information to support strategic decision-making. Methods This study employs a cross-sectional, descriptive, and non-experimental design based on a bibliometric and systematic analysis of the literature. A mixed methodology was used, integrating qualitative content synthesis with bibliometric indicators. Results The results show that scientific production related to market intelligence has experienced particularly notable growth since 2018, with a predominant participation of countries such as the United States, China and the United Kingdom. The analysis identified a three-part structure consisting of the conceptual foundations of MI, its strategic applications in the field of agro-exports, and its documented effects on export performance. The evidence reviewed confirms that MI contributes to strengthening international competitiveness by reducing uncertainty and guiding strategic decision-making within companies. Conclusions Despite the benefits associated with the use of market intelligence in the agro-export environment, its adoption remains limited, especially in Latin America, where technological and institutional gaps persist that hinder its full implementation. The available evidence suggests that MI is a strategic resource for improving export performance, although significant efforts are still required to expand its use and consolidate its contribution to the competitive development of the sector.in F1000Research on 2026-02-24 11:43:18 UTC.
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More on the Fascinating Characterizations of Mulatu’s Numbers [version 3; peer review: 4 approved with reservations, 2 not approved]
Background The discoveries of Mulatu’s numbers, better known as Mulatu’s sequence, represent revolutionary contributions to the mathematical world. His best-known work is Mulatu’s sequence, in which each new number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. When various operations and manipulations are performed on the numbers in this sequence, remarkable and intricate patterns begin to emerge. This study aimed to identify novel characterizations of Mulatu’s numbers. Methods This study employed a multi-faceted approach to investigate characterizations of Mulatu’s numbers. Mathematical proof techniques such as principle of mathematical induction, proof by contradiction and direct proof were utilized to substantiate findings. Results In this study, we provided several characterizations of Mulatu’s numbers. We also investigated the properties and patterns of these numbers. Moreover, we have also shown that, similar to Fibonacci’s numbers, Mulatu’s numbers give the so-called golden ratio, which is most applicable in numerical optimization. Furthermore, we formulated a relation among Mulatu’s numbers, Fibonacci numbers, and Lucas numbers. Finally, we provided a generating function for the Mulatu numbers. Conclusions In this study, we uncovered novel characterizations of Mulatu’s numbers and introduced a generating function for them. We investigated relationship between Mulatu’s numbers and the golden ratio. The results discussed offer valuable insights and enhance our understanding of their properties. Furthermore, these findings play a vital role in the boarder context of mathematics and related areas, contributing significantly to the field.in F1000Research on 2026-02-24 11:27:42 UTC.
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Cultural barriers in women's entrepreneurial education: Challenges, perceptions and transformation strategies [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Women’s entrepreneurial education has been increasingly recognized as a mechanism for promoting gender equality and economic participation in rural contexts. However, persistent cultural, symbolic, and structural barriers continue to limit women’s access to training, leadership opportunities, and innovation ecosystems, particularly in Latin America. Methods A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were performed in Scopus and Web of Science between January and September 2025. Studies published between 2015 and 2025 in English or Spanish were included if they addressed women’s entrepreneurial education, leadership, or cultural barriers in rural or comparable contexts. A total of 842 records were identified, and after screening and eligibility assessment, 129 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and 45 in the in-depth analysis. Results The findings indicate that institutional constraints, educational inequalities, and persistent gender stereotypes are the most frequently reported barriers. Facilitating factors include sociocultural support, visible role models, inclusive educational programs, and gender-oriented public policies. Women’s leadership is commonly described as collaborative and community-oriented, with documented associations to entrepreneurial self-efficacy, economic participation, and community resilience. Conclusions Entrepreneurial education functions as a mediating mechanism within rural ecosystems, transforming structural and symbolic barriers into opportunities for empowerment and leadership. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the cultural and institutional conditions shaping women’s entrepreneurial education and leadership in rural contexts.in F1000Research on 2026-02-24 06:16:52 UTC.
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Views, Barriers and Facilitators of Policymakers, Pharmacists and Health Community Representative in Managing Unused Medicine in a Socioeconomically Diverse District in Indonesia [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background Unused medicine poses a serious risk to community and environmental health. Several studies have been conducted on how patient behave however little is known about how this issue is viewed through the lens of different stakeholders. Objective To explore the views, barriers and facilitators of policymakers, pharmacists and community-representative on community behavior in managing unused medicines in Garut Regency, Indonesia. Methods A qualitative study was conducted with policymakers, pharmacists and community -representatives. Data were analyzed inductively using thematic analysis framework. Emergent themes were further interpreted using the Socio-Ecological approach to situate behaviors and challenges within individual, community, organizational, and policy levels. Results Fourty one participants were recruited. Five themes were identified: (1) Storing and disposing medicines, (2) causes of unused medicines, (3) individual-level barriers including knowledge gaps and cultural beliefs, (4) structural barriers such as limited facilities, regulatory gaps, and institutional constraints, and (5) facilitators including rising awareness, supportive legal frameworks, and cross-sectoral initiatives. Mapping these findings onto the Socio-Ecological approach highlighted the interplay between patient practices, social norms, institutional resources, and policy environments. Conclusion Stakeholders recognize that unused medicine management is shaped by multi-level factors beyond individual awareness. Effective interventions will require a comprehensive approach that integrates patient education, community engagement, health system support, and regulatory frameworks.in F1000Research on 2026-02-24 06:08:24 UTC.
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HOMA-IR Values in Overweight and Obesity Subjects With and Without Sarcopenia [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Introduction Obesity and overweight, a state of subclinical inflammation, and sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and function, are interrelated conditions. Insulin resistance is a key metabolic dysfunction linking both. This study aimed to compare Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) values among overweight/obese subjects with and without sarcopenia. Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2025 Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital and Hasanuddin University Hospital, Makassar. A total of 100 overweight/obese adult subjects (BMI ≥23 kg/m2 for Asian criteria) were included via consecutive sampling. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 criteria. Insulin resistance was assessed using HOMA-IR, with a cut-off of >2.6 (Tertile 3). Data analysis used descriptive statistics and Chi-square test and Spearman Correlation test. Results The mean BMI was 28.61 ± 5.24 kg/m2, and the mean HOMA-IR was 2.73 ± 2.1. Sarcopenia was present in 73% of subjects. The prevalence of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR >2.6) was descriptively highest in the sarcopenic obese group (36.0%), followed by the sarcopenic overweight group (30.4%), and the non-sarcopenic obese group (29.2%), with 0% in the non-sarcopenic overweight reference group. However, statistical analysis showed no significant association between the combination of sarcopenia and overweight/obesity categories with insulin resistance (p > 0.05 for all comparisons). A significant negative correlation was found between HOMA-IR and both Hand Grip Strenght (ρ = -0.225, p=0.020) and BIA-measured muscle mass (ρ = -0.222, p=0.020). Gait speed showed no significant correlation with HOMA-IR (ρ = -0.119, p=0.238). Conclusions Although no independent association was observed between sarcopenic obesity and insulin resistance after unadjusted analysis, higher HOMA-IR levels were consistently associated with reduced muscle mass and strength, suggesting early metabolic–musculoskeletal interaction in overweight individuals.in F1000Research on 2026-02-24 06:04:42 UTC.
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The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Enabling Digital Innovation/ The Mediating Role of Digital Transformation: A Survey Study Opinions of a Sample for Faculty Members at University of Ninevah [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background Digital transformation, driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation, has become a cornerstone for improving educational quality and administrative efficiency in higher education institutions. However, universities in developing countries like Iraq face significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, gaps in digital literacy, and resistance to change that hinder the effective integration of these technologies. Method This study used both descriptive and quantitative analysis using statistical tools represented by SPSS and Amos, tables and graphs. Data was collected from 206 faculty members working at the University of Ninevah using an electronic questionnaire after it was evaluated by experts in the field of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. Results The results of the statistical analysis showed that artificial intelligence has a positive impact on enabling digital innovation in universities. The study also revealed that digital transformation played a key mediating role in analyzing the relationship between artificial intelligence and digital innovation. Thus, the four hypotheses were confirmed, reflecting the validity of the hypothesized model and highlighting the importance of digital transformation as a strategic mechanism for improving the efficiency of artificial intelligence technologies and supporting digital innovation in universities. Conclusion Our study concludes that digital transformation, which supports enhanced interaction between artificial intelligence and digital innovation, is key to improving the quality of education and management ethics in Iraqi higher education institutions. This leads to better teaching practices, more engaged students, enhanced collaboration, and support for scientific research. However, weak infrastructure support, a prevailing digital culture, and some resistance to change pose real challenges to its implementation. Despite these obstacles, digital transformation remains a top investment priority for Iraqi higher education institutions to maximize the direct benefits of artificial intelligence and digital innovation.in F1000Research on 2026-02-24 06:00:12 UTC.
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Micro- and nanoplastics in neurological dysfunction
Plastic particles can interfere with the nervous system and are increasingly recognised as a global health concern. This review encompasses recent findings on the impact of plastic particles on brain health, including studies in humans, rodents, nematodes, and zebrafish. We discuss how plastics can impact cellular metabolism, affect developmental brain processes, and increase vulnerability to neurodevelopmental disorders and depression. Additionally, we review the potential of plastic particles to interact with the immune system and trigger pathological protein aggregation, enhancing susceptibility to neurodegeneration. Finally, we evaluate knowledge gaps that should be addressed to better understand the long-term impacts of plastic particles on the nervous system and neurological disorders.in Trends in Neurosciences: In press on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Endogenous retrovirus-derived RNA-DNA hybrids induce microglial synaptic pruning in autism models
Based on mouse models of MIA and Setdb1 deficiency, the study by Chen et al. identifies an ERV-mediated C4b-microglia pathway in autism. The authors propose that RTI intervention targeting ERV reverse transcription may modulate C4b-microglia activation and alleviate autism symptoms.in Neuron: In press on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Cryo-EM structure enabling virtual screening for the discovery of highly potent TRPM3 antagonists with analgesic efficacy
Yang et al. combine cryo-EM and virtual screening to develop a highly potent TRPM3 antagonist. This compound effectively relieves pain in animal models, showcasing a successful structure-based strategy to target a promising non-opioid pathway for future analgesic development.in Neuron: In press on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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FAK inhibition in ovarian cancer releases omega-3 fatty acids to program CXCL13-producing anti-tumor resident peritoneal macrophages
FAK tyrosine kinase drives ovarian cancer tumor progression in part via effects on the tumor microenvironment. Chen et al. show that ovarian tumor FAK inhibition triggers release of omega-3 fatty acid-containing exosomes, impacting GATA6+ peritoneal macrophage anti-tumor reprogramming, CXCL13 cytokine production, and anti-TIGIT immunotherapy.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Microbial trait of large body size facilitates ecosystem performance
Li et al. show that microbial body size significantly influences ecosystem performance in anaerobic digestion. They find that larger mean body-size communities facilitate methane production, mainly by enhancing microbial metabolic processes and interconnections. The study suggests that body size is a valuable predictor for managing ecosystem functions.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Modeling spastic paraplegia 4 with corticospinal motor neuron-enriched cortical organoids reveals genotype-phenotype and HDAC6-targetable pathology
Mohan et al. generated isogenic hiPSC-derived motor cortical organoids (MCOs) carrying either an SPAST missense or truncation mutation. These models revealed genotype-phenotype distinctions in microtubule defects and axonal degeneration, driven by HDAC6 hyperactivation. Pharmacological inhibition of HDAC6 successfully rescued these pathological phenotypes, establishing HDAC6 as a therapeutic target for SPG4.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay orchestrates neuronal migration and cortical lamination while modulating Reelin and ciliary gene regulatory networks
Lin et al. show that nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) is essential for neuronal migration and cortical lamination. UPF2 regulates expression of Reelin signaling and microtubule genes via Ino80 and represses ciliary gene Foxj1 to assure normal migration, revealing a key regulated RNA decay mechanism in brain development.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Author Correction: Global subsidence of river deltas
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-10294-0
Author Correction: Global subsidence of river deltasin Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Editorial Expression of Concern: Opposing roles for calcineurin and ATF3 in squamous skin cancer
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-10293-1
Editorial Expression of Concern: Opposing roles for calcineurin and ATF3 in squamous skin cancerin Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Dynamic antigen expression and cytotoxic T cell resistance in HIV reservoir clones
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-10298-w
Dynamic antigen expression and cytotoxic T cell resistance in HIV reservoir clonesin Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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The Contributor Role Taxonomy tool must serve to record extent of authorship
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00591-z
The Contributor Role Taxonomy tool must serve to record extent of authorshipin Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Sewage systems secretly waft pollution into the air
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00514-y
Wastewater treatment tanks and other infrastructure emit larger amounts of greenhouse gases than reported.in Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Treasures of scientific history could be hiding in plain sight
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00298-1
A reader calls for museum curators to look for historic scientific apparatus, and a landmark treaty aims to protect the Mediterranean from pollution, in our weekly dip into Nature’s archive.in Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Defunding Chile’s climate research will undermine science and the region
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00592-y
Defunding Chile’s climate research will undermine science and the regionin Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Account for AI in the environmental footprint of scientific publishing
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00590-0
Account for AI in the environmental footprint of scientific publishingin Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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This ant species is composed of only queens — no workers or males
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00517-9
Temnothorax kinomurai queens survive by invading the nests of a related ant species and co-opting its workers.in Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Evidence alone won’t save biodiversity: the golden apple snail reveals an implementation gap
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00593-x
Evidence alone won’t save biodiversity: the golden apple snail reveals an implementation gapin Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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COVID’s origins: what we do and don’t know
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00530-y
Researchers summarize key insights from the world’s first comprehensive investigation into how a pandemic started.in Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Nuclear weapons testing is harmful — there’s no case for a restart
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00561-5
Scientific knowledge about the damaging effects of nuclear-weapons testing helped to end such tests. Those findings haven’t changed.in Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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China is waging war on Alzheimer’s. What can its approach teach the rest of the world?
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00564-2
The country is facing a coming wave of dementia for its ageing population, and is investing in research into drugs, diagnostics and even surgery to prepare itself.in Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Scientists must step up to avert a nuclear breakout
Nature, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00562-4
The end of the US–Russia treaty to cap the number of nuclear weapons places the world at risk. Here’s what researchers can do.in Nature on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Orbitofrontal cortex drives predictive filtering of sensory responses
Nature Neuroscience, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41593-026-02217-z
Top-down projections from the orbitofrontal cortex carry predictive signals that grow with sound experience and suppress the auditory cortex via inhibitory circuits, revealing a predictive mechanism for sensory habituation.in Nature Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Purcell-enhanced mid-infrared cascade light-emitting diodes
Nature Photonics, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41566-026-01859-6
The electroluminescent intraband emission of HgSe/CdS colloidal quantum dots is enhanced by plasmonic bowtie nanoantennas, resulting in light-emitting diodes emitting at 5 μm with a power conversion efficiency of 5%.in Nature Photomics on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Global daily CO2 emissions from 1970 to 2024
Scientific Data, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06621-9
Global daily CO2 emissions from 1970 to 2024in Nature scientific data on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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PreprintToPaper dataset: connecting bioRxiv preprints with journal publications
Scientific Data, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06867-3
PreprintToPaper dataset: connecting bioRxiv preprints with journal publicationsin Nature scientific data on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Chromosome-scale genome assembly and annotation of Garuga floribunda var. gamblei (King ex W. W. Sm.) Kalkman
Scientific Data, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06886-0
Chromosome-scale genome assembly and annotation of Garuga floribunda var. gamblei (King ex W. W. Sm.) Kalkmanin Nature scientific data on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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A spatial transcriptomics comparison of the adult versus metamorphosed axolotl brain
Scientific Data, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06917-w
A spatial transcriptomics comparison of the adult versus metamorphosed axolotl brainin Nature scientific data on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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CzechLynx: A Dataset for Individual Identification and Pose Estimation of the Eurasian Lynx
Scientific Data, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06853-9
CzechLynx: A Dataset for Individual Identification and Pose Estimation of the Eurasian Lynxin Nature scientific data on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Narrative Dialogue Dataset: Speaker and Emotion Annotated Conversational Corpus
Scientific Data, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41597-026-06891-3
Narrative Dialogue Dataset: Speaker and Emotion Annotated Conversational Corpusin Nature scientific data on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Manganese supplementation enhances cnidarian–dinoflagellate symbiosis under thermal stress
Communications Biology, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09748-y
Manganese supplementation at biologically relevant levels enhances cnidarian-dinoflagellate symbiosis in Exaiptasia daiphana. mitigating photochemical damage, symbiont loss and revealing mechanistic links in cnidarian thermal tolerance.in Nature communications biology on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Epigenetic landscape of the H3K27me3 mark in macrophages transformed by Theileria annulata
Communications Biology, Published online: 24 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09735-3
H3K27me3 marks are heavily remodeled in attenuated Theileria-transformed macrophages and upon PRC2 inhibitor treatment fewer genes are derepressed compared to virulent macrophages. Broader H3K27me3 distribution does not underpin loss of virulence.in Nature communications biology on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Transsaccadic working memory in healthy ageing and neurodegenerative disease
The brain continuously integrates rapidly changing visual input across eye movements to maintain stable perception, yet the precise mechanisms underpinning dynamic working memory and how these break down in brain diseases remain unclear. We developed a novel eye-tracking paradigm and computational models to investigate how spatial and colour information are updated across saccades in the human brain. Our findings reveal that saccades selectively impair spatial but not colour memory. Computational modelling identified that spatial representations are maintained in a dual eye-centred frame of reference which is actively updated by a noisy memory of saccades but is vulnerable to interference. Using this model, we found that specific mechanistic failures in initial encoding and memory decay, rather than the saccadic updating process itself, account for spatial working memory deficits in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. These results provide a mechanistic understanding of how dynamic spatial memory operates in health and its disruption in neurodegenerative disorders.in eLife on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Synthetic gene circuits that selectively target RAS-driven cancers
Therapies targeting mutated rat sarcoma (RAS), the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancers, could benefit millions of patients. Recently approved RAS inhibitors represent a breakthrough but are limited to a specific KRASG12C mutation and prone to resistance. Synthetic gene circuits offer a promising alternative by sensing and integrating cancer-specific biomolecular inputs, including mutated RAS, to selectively express therapeutic proteins in cancer cells. A key challenge for these circuits is achieving high cancer selectivity to prevent toxicity in healthy cells. To address this challenge, we present a novel approach combining multiple RAS sensors into RAS-targeting gene circuits, which allowed us to express an output protein in cells with mutated RAS with unprecedented selectivity. We implemented a modular design strategy and modeled the impact of individual circuit components on output expression. This enabled cell-line-specific adaptation of the circuits to optimize selectivity and fine-tune expression. We further demonstrate the targeting capabilities of the circuits by employing them in different RAS-driven cancer cells and provide evidence for their therapeutic potential by linking them to the expression of a clinically relevant output protein, which induced robust killing of cancer cells with mutated RAS. This work highlights the potential of synthetic gene circuits as a novel therapeutic strategy for RAS-driven cancers, advancing the application of synthetic biology in oncology.in eLife on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Non-visual light modulates behavioral memory and gene expression in Caenorhabditis elegans
Visible light influences a range of physiological processes, yet how animals respond to it independently of the visual system remains largely unknown. Here, we uncover a previously undescribed light-induced transcriptional pathway that modulates behavioral plasticity in Caenorhabditis elegans, a roundworm without eyes. We demonstrate that ambient visible light or controlled-intensity visible-spectrum LED activates an effector gene cyp-14A5 in non-neuronal tissues through the bZIP transcription factors ZIP-2 and CEBP-2. Light induction of cyp-14A5 is more prominent at shorter wavelengths but is independent of the known blue light receptors LITE-1 and GUR-3 in C. elegans. This bZIP-dependent genetic pathway in non-neuronal tissues enhances behavioral adaptability and olfactory memory, suggesting a body-brain communication axis. Furthermore, we use the light-responsive cyp-14A5 promoter to drive ectopic gene expression, causing synthetic light-induced sleep and rapid aging phenotypes in C. elegans. These findings advance our understanding of light-responsive mechanisms outside the visual system and offer a new genetic tool for visible light-inducible gene expression in non-neuronal tissues.in eLife on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Size tuning of neural response variability in laminar circuits of macaque primary visual cortex
Surround suppression and neural response variability are widespread cortical phenomena thought to facilitate and impede, respectively, information processing and perception. Because manipulations that elicit neural response suppression often quench variability, it has been proposed that these two phenomena share a common origin. However, the relationship between surround suppression and variability has not been systematically examined. Surround suppression is mediated by multiple circuits and mechanisms that depend on the size of the sensory stimulus and cortical layer. Variability is also laminar dependent. To understand how surround suppression and variability interact and influence laminar processing, we used laminar electrophysiological recordings to examine how neural response variability and the shared variability among neurons are modulated by visual stimulus size across the layers of macaque primary visual cortex (V1). We find that surround suppression does not always quench variability. Instead, variability is tuned for stimulus size in a layer-dependent manner. In all layers, stimulation of the receptive field (RF) reduced both individual and shared variability relative to pre-stimulus baseline. Expanding the stimulus beyond the RF, into the near RF surround, further decreased variability in infragranular layers, but had little effect in granular and supragranular layers. In contrast, large stimuli extending into the far RF surround increased both individual and shared variability, relative to their value for a stimulus matched to the RF size, in supragranular layers, but decreased them or did not change them in granular and infragranular layers. Surprisingly, stimuli smaller than the RF could increase variability above baseline values, particularly in granular and infragranular layers. Our results indicate that surround suppression and variability are not governed by a single mechanism. Instead, multiple laminar-specific circuits and mechanisms shape variability, highlighting the need for revised models of neural response variability in cortical processing.in eLife on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Spinal Cord Microglia Exhibit Impaired Repair Responses to Myelin Damage
Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that affects both the brain and spinal cord, although the brain has historically received greater attention. In the inducible, oligodendrocyte-specific knockout model of Myrf, which results in white matter damage to both the brain and spinal cord, our laboratory previously demonstrated that the brain undergoes partial remyelination following white matter damage, whereas the spinal cord fails to do so. We also observed that brain microglia display a much stronger activation than spinal cord microglia in this model. Microglia regulate remyelination by clearing myelin debris, processing resulting lipids, and modulating an inflammation response. Results Here, to test our hypothesis, we characterized microglial phenotypes during demyelination in both tissues. The brain exhibited greater early microglial recruitment and higher baseline expression of activation and phagocytic markers, suggesting a primed state for responding to damage. In contrast, spinal cord microglia showed delayed phagocytic marker expression, sustained inflammation, and a predominately amoeboid morphology during demyelination. Conclusions Together, these findings indicate that brain microglia mount a timely and coordinated response to demyelination that supports remyelination, whereas spinal cord microglia adopt a dysfunctional phenotype that may contribute to impaired myelin repair.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Preclinical CRX augmentation therapies for CRX-associated autosomal dominant cone-rod dystrophies
Cone-rod dystrophies (CoRD) are inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) with variable ages of onset, characterized by the progressive loss of cones, followed by secondary degeneration of rods. Cone-rod homeobox (CRX) is a transcription factor that regulates gene expression essential for photoreceptor development and maintenance. Mutations in CRX gene, including CRXE168d2 and CRXE80A, are implicated in autosomal dominant CoRDs. Although these mutations show distinct pathogenic mechanisms, published studies in knock-in mouse models have suggested a common treatment strategy: increasing WT CRX expression to reduce the detrimental activities of mutant proteins. This study employs two independent strategies of CRX augmentation to evaluate their therapeutic potential in CrxE168d2/+ and CrxE80A/+ mouse models. The Tet-On-hCRX transgenic system, a platform of proof-of-principle gene therapy, induces consistent and pan-photoreceptor expression of CRX augmentation in diseased retinae, allowing for the faithful assessment of functional and behavioral recovery. AAV-mediated CRX augmentation is used to evaluate the biosafety, delivery efficiency and efficacy of viral transduction in diseased retinae. Both strategies have achieved significant treatment outcomes in cone photoreceptor survival and overall photoreceptor functions in young adulthood. Treated cones survive past the age point of complete cone loss in untreated controls of both models. Treated rods show functional improvement and long-term survival through later adulthood. This preclinical study establishes valuable treatment regimens and benchmarks for CRX augmentation in the treatment of CRX-associated IRDs, and offers new insights into the mechanisms for photoreceptor development and survival.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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A Virtual Reality Dataset to Support Hand Action Observation in Rehabilitation and Motor Learning Studies
The recovery of motor function is increasingly understood as a process influenced not only by physical training but also by perceptual and cognitive strategies. Action Observation Treatment (AOT), a neurorehabilitation approach in which patients observe goal-directed motor actions before executing them, has demonstrated clinical benefits; however, its wider implementation is hindered by a lack of standardized procedures. We present an open-access dataset of 33 upper-limb gestures, specifically developed to support the administration of Virtual Reality-based AOT (VR-AOT). The gestures were selected in collaboration with expert physiotherapists to ensure clinical relevance and are provided as motion-capture recordings along with Unity-based 3D animations embedded in configurable virtual scenes. The dataset is designed for flexibility, allowing users to modify parameters such as viewpoint, laterality, and repetition count. Technical validation confirms its usability and therapeutic applicability across multiple clinical and research contexts. This dataset offers a standardized yet customizable resource for developing and comparing VR-AOT protocols, with potential applications in neurorehabilitation and motor learning research.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Peripheral Metabolic Reprogramming Links TDP-43 Proteinopathy to Sleep Disruption
Sleep disruption is an early and prevalent feature of neurodegenerative disease, commonly attributed to neuronal circuit dysfunction or cell loss. However, sleep is tightly coupled to metabolic state, raising the possibility that systemic metabolic abnormalities contribute to disease-associated sleep phenotypes. Using Drosophila models of TDP-43 proteinopathy, we investigated whether peripheral metabolic dysfunction plays a causal role in sleep disruption. We show that TDP-43 expression induces a chronic, starvation-like metabolic state characterized by depletion of peripheral carbohydrate and lipid stores despite normal feeding. Pharmacological restoration of sleep fails to correct these metabolic defects, whereas improving peripheral metabolic state through dietary or genetic interventions robustly rescues sleep. An RNAi-based modifier screen identifies Salt-inducible kinase 3 (SIK3) as a potent suppressor of both sleep loss and starvation sensitivity. Transcriptomic and spatial metabolomic analyses reveal that SIK3 selectively remodels a peripheral metabolic program centered on the pentose phosphate pathway and redox-associated metabolites without globally restoring energy stores. Together, these findings identify systemic metabolic dysfunction as a key driver of sleep disruption in TDP-43 proteinopathy and highlight peripheral metabolism as a potential therapeutic entry point for sleep dysfunction in neurodegenerative disease.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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A modular, high-bandwidth, bidirectional implantable device for neural interrogation
Modern neuroelectronic interfaces have shown great potential to diagnose conditions, address neurological dysfunction, and advance neuroscientific knowledge. However, neural interface systems today require tethered connections that restrict mobility, prevent testing across ecological contexts, and inhibit clinical translation to at-home use. Fully implantable commercial systems have previously been developed, but exhibit significant constraints, including a bulky design, limited modularity, low bandwidth, or unidirectional communication (e.g. deep brain stimulation systems, DBS; spinal cord stimulation systems, SCS). Here, we have developed the Modular Bionic Interface (MBI), a system composed of a fully implantable device and a worn unit for high-bandwidth, bidirectional interfacing with the nervous system. The MBI can record high fidelity electrophysiological signals and deliver spatiotemporally modulated electrical stimulation for clinical and research purposes through flexible interaction with third party implantable devices. We performed benchtop evaluation to validate the recording and stimulation capabilities of the MBI across a diverse range of inputs and outputs. We then evaluated the MBI system in vivo through chronic implantation within a sheep, where results were stable for the length of evaluation, over three months. While connected to an actively powered, third-party high-resolution spinal cord stimulation electrode array, the MBI system was able to deliver stimulation to evoke lower extremity motor responses and record spinal compound action potentials evoked by peripheral nerve and spinal stimulation. Through rigorous evaluation, we demonstrate a fully implantable system with a small footprint capable of high-resolution, bi-directional communication with the nervous system via modular connections to third-party devices. We expect that modular devices will further our ability to treat complex neurological disease and injury.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Statins and genetic inhibition of the mevalonate pathway activate an ATF3-STMN2 regenerative program
Loss of neuronal regenerative capacity is a common feature of neurodegenerative disease and axonal injury, yet the transcriptional programs governing this state remain poorly defined. Stathmin-2 (STMN2), a tubulin-binding protein essential for axon maintenance and repair, is profoundly depleted following loss of nuclear TDP-43 in neurodegenerative disease. Here, we identify statins as potent inducers of STMN2 expression. Pharmacological and genetic suppression of the mevalonate pathway, and subsequent prevention of protein geranylgeranylation, restored STMN2 levels in TDP-43 deficient cells and promoted neurite growth. STMN2 induction was abrogated when using a statin analogue unable to interact with HMG-CoA reductase, and through co-administration of mevalonate or geranylgeranyl diphosphate substrates. RNA-seq revealed that statins induce a coordinated pro-regenerative transcriptional response, including activation of the AP-1 transcription factor complex gene, ATF3. Loss of ATF3 attenuated STMN2 induction in vitro, and diminished injury-induced Stmn2 upregulation in spinal motor neurons in vivo. These results demonstrate statins as modulators of ATF3 and STMN2 expression and highlight their therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative disease.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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A Cross-Species Enhancer-AAV Toolkit for Cell Type-Specific Targeting Across the Basal Ganglia
The mammalian basal ganglia (BG) orchestrate motor, cognitive, and affective functions, yet cell type-specific genetic access remains limited, especially beyond rodents. Key structures implicated in movement and psychiatric disorders, including pallidum, subthalamic nucleus, and dopaminergic midbrain, lack scalable tools for cross-species targeting. Here, we present a comprehensive enhancer-AAV library enabling selective labeling and manipulation of major BG neuronal populations: striatal projection neuron subtypes, pallidal and subthalamic neurons, and midbrain dopaminergic and GABAergic populations. Using an evolutionarily informed discovery pipeline, we identified enhancers targeting canonical, non-canonical, and disease-relevant cell types, with validation demonstrating robust cross-species conservation of specificity between mouse and macaque. Computational modeling revealed sequence features predictive of in vivo performance, including motif grammar, chromatin accessibility, and evolutionary conservation, and identified distinct regulatory architectures across glial, projection, and interneuron lineages. This work establishes the first comprehensive cross-species viral toolkit for the BG, unlocking previously inaccessible cell types for circuit dissection.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Protein-stabilizing and neurotransmission-potentiating activities of a synaptic chaperone modify spinal muscular atrophy in model mice
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an often fatal infantile-onset neuromuscular disease caused by low SMN protein. Administration of SMN-inducing agents to SMA newborns prevents early mortality, but therapeutic outcomes vary considerably, and disease mechanisms remain poorly understood. Genetic modifiers can provide clues to disease mechanisms and serve as targets for novel treatments. Here, we describe how one such modifier suppresses SMA in model mice. We show that the modifier, an Hspa8G470R synaptic chaperone variant we previously identified, functions beyond an already defined role as an SMN2 splice-switcher. Even in mice lacking the SMN2 gene, the modifier, whether expressed genetically or exogenously, potently suppressed disease, preventing motor neuron degeneration, ameliorating neuromuscular dysfunction and extending lifespan more than ten-fold. Unexpectedly, this was once again associated with incremental SMN increase, an outcome we discovered is linked to Hspa8G470R-mediated autophagy, effects of the modifier on autophagy-associated intermediate complexes and, ultimately, reduced SMN turnover. Interestingly, however, Hspa8G470R also stimulated neuromuscular transmission significantly, raising the effective, functional readily releasable pool of motor neuronal synaptic vesicles. This effect was not limited to mutants alone but apparent in healthy controls too and did not correlate with mere increase in SMN. Combined, these outcomes suggest that Hspa8 governs neuromuscular function in several ways including direct effects on synapses. Mechanisms revealed here shed additional light on pathways gone awry in SMA ones that might be modulated to develop or refine therapies for neuromuscular disorders at large.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Comparing Electrical and Ultrasound Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) on Associative Memory
Associative memory, the ability to bind and retrieve relationships between unrelated elements, is a cornerstone of human cognition and a primary target for neurorehabilitation. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has emerged as a promising method to modulate the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) system and hippocampal-prefrontal circuits essential for memory. However, the comparative efficacy of non-invasive modalities such as electrical (E-taVNS) and the emerging field of ultrasound (U-taVNS) remains poorly understood in the context of active recall. In this study, participants performed a crossmodal video-word associative memory task before and after receiving either E-taVNS or U-taVNS in active and sham conditions. We investigated whether these modalities enhance cued recall accuracy and retrieval reaction time. Our results revealed that neither E-taVNS nor U-taVNS significantly improved recall accuracy. However, E-taVNS significantly accelerated response times specifically for correctly recalled items. These findings suggest that while taVNS may not increase the likelihood of recalling associative memories, electrical stimulation may enhances the efficiency in which we do so. These findings suggest that electrical taVNS is a viable tool for facilitating memory search processes, though further research is required to optimize ultrasound parameters and validate mechanistic pathways through physiological monitoring.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Behind and Beyond the Screen: Neural Differences Between Live vs. Video-Based Action Perception Under Attentional Load
Perceiving others' actions is essential for survival, interaction, and communication, yet most neuroscience studies rely on 2D videos or images that lack the presence and social affordances of real actions. This limits our understanding of real-world action perception and the development of neurally grounded models. Here, we directly compare behavioral and neural responses to real (live) versus video-based actions. Using a novel experimental setup (Pekcetin et al. 2023), we conducted a two-session EEG study (N = 26) in which participants viewed peripheral actions presented live or via video while performing a central task under low and high attentional load. We examined behavioral performance, mass-univariate ERPs, time-frequency responses, and time-resolved representational similarity (RSA). Behaviorally, real actions imposed a greater cognitive cost than video actions, with the largest ''Realness Effect'' under high load. ERPs showed reliable Live-Video differences within 150-450 ms after action onset. Time-frequency analyses over occipital and parietal regions revealed weaker alpha (8-12 Hz) and beta (15-25 Hz) suppression for video actions, indicating reduced perceptual engagement. Time-resolved RSA also robustly separated live and video conditions between 250-750 ms. Together, these results show that live actions engage perceptual systems more strongly than their video-based counterparts, underscoring the limitations of screen-mediated paradigms and motivating more ecologically grounded approaches in social and action perception research.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Humanized tau and amyloid-β deposition accelerate tau propagation, neuronal cell loss and neurophysiological dysfunction in novel mouse models of primary age-related tauopathy and Alzheimer's disease
In Alzheimer's disease (AD), tau pathology arises in entorhinal cortex layer II (ECII) and advances through defined hippocampal circuits to CA1 and connected neocortical regions, yet the determinants of this hierarchical spread remain unclear. We previously established a circuit-defined propagation model by expressing Cre-inducible human P301L 2N4R tau selectively in Wolframin-1 (Wfs1)+ ECII neurons using AAV-FLEX-TauP301L in Wfs1-Cre mice. Here, to test how amyloid-{beta} (A{beta}) and human tau background shape propagation, we generated human MAPT knock-in Wfs1 mice and APPNL-G-F/MAPT double knock-in Wfs1 mice (T-Wfs1 and AT-Wfs1) and induced ECII-restricted TauP301L expression. Three months after injection, phosphorylated or misfolded tau-positive neurons were enriched in proximal CA1 in Wfs1 and T-Wfs1 mice, resembling primary age-related tauopathy, whereas AT-Wfs1 mice showed preferential accumulation near the CA1/subiculum (Sub) boundary, consistent with an AD-like pattern. In T-Wfs1 and AT-Wfs1 mice, tau spread extended through Sub to neocortical regions, and phosphorylated tau accumulated predominantly in excitatory rather than inhibitory neurons. Electrophysiological analyses revealed increased spontaneous neuronal firing and impaired GABAergic transmission in the CA1/Sub boundary and neocortical areas in T-Wfs1 and AT-Wfs1 mice, indicative of impaired GABAergic input and enhanced neuronal excitability in these regions. Together, these data indicate that human MAPT and A{beta} pathology shift the circuit topography of tau propagation and are associated with early network dysfunction, supporting a synergistic interaction that promotes AD-like spread and synaptic imbalance.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Elevated Delta Power in a Maternal UBE3A-Deletion Pig Model of Angelman Syndrome
Angelman syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss of the maternally inherited UBE3A allele and is characterized by severe cognitive, motor, and communication impairments. Increased delta (1-4 Hz) activity on electroencephalogram (EEG) assessed by visual inspection and by spectral power analysis is a robust feature of the disorder in humans and rodent models and is used as a biomarker of Angelman syndrome. This aspect of the phenotype has not been evaluated in the recently developed pig model of Angelman syndrome. Here, we analyzed scalp EEG recordings from freely moving pigs carrying a maternal UBE3A deletion (UBE3A-/+) across three age groups to determine whether they recapitulate the delta power abnormalities characteristic of the disorder. UBE3A-/+ pigs exhibited elevated delta power during both wakefulness and sleep compared with wild-type littermates, with the largest differences observed during the awake state. The typical increase in delta power that accompanies the transition from wakefulness to sleep was also reduced in UBE3A-/+ pigs. These effects were observed across study groups, demonstrating that the maternal UBE3A-deletion pig model reproduces the elevated delta power EEG phenotype of Angelman syndrome. Our results establish noninvasive scalp EEG as a translationally relevant tool for assessing neural dysfunction in this large-animal model and provide a framework for preclinical therapeutic testing. This work strengthens the utility of the pig model for mechanistic studies and therapeutic development in Angelman syndrome.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis-Mediated Gut NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation Exacerbates Corticospinal Tract Injury After Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) causes severe neurological deficits, largely attributable to corticospinal tract (CST) injury. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear, which hinders the development of effective treatment methods. Here, we found that CST injury is not only associated with the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in the surrounding area of the hematoma as expected, and dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier, but also related to the severe imbalance of the gut microbiota, the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in the gut and the impairment of gut barrier function after ICH. We therefore systematically investigated how the gut NLRP3 inflammasome and gut dysbiosis exacerbate CST injury after ICH. Knockdown of colon NLRP3 significantly attenuated CST injury and downregulated inflammasome signaling in both the peripheral circulation and the peri-hematomal brain. Consistently, antibiotic-mediated gut microbiota depletion suppressed NLRP3 activation in the gut and brain, improved neurological function, and reduced CST damage. Crucially, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from ICH donors established that the exacerbation of CST injury is dependent on gut dysbiosis. While FMT induced severe pathology in control mice, this effect was improved in gut NLRP3 knockdown recipients, demonstrating that gut NLRP3 is essential for mediating the harmful effects of microbiota dysbiosis. Our findings described a causal gut-brain axis in ICH, wherein microbiota dysbiosis activates the gut NLRP3 inflammasome to exacerbate CST injury, thereby identifying the gut NLRP3 inflammasome as a promising therapeutic target.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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IL-1β engages distinct peripheral sensory circuits to suppress feeding across time
Loss of appetite is a hallmark of acute and chronic inflammation, and sustained anorexia causes malnutrition and worsens disease outcomes. Interleukin-1{beta} (IL-1{beta}) is one of the most potently anorexigenic inflammatory cytokines, yet how it engages neural circuits that suppress feeding remains incompletely understood. Specifically, the role of peripheral sensory neurons in mediating IL-1{beta}-induced anorexia is unresolved. Here, using DREADD-mediated inhibition of discrete peripheral sensory neuron populations and fiber photometry, we show that IL-1{beta}-induced anorexia occurs in at least two temporally and mechanistically distinct phases. Shortly after IL-1{beta} administration, prostaglandin signaling through non-vagal sensory afferents rapidly inhibits hypothalamic AgRP neurons to suppress food intake. At later time points, anorexia becomes partially prostaglandin-independent and vagal afferent neuron-dependent. Our findings demonstrate that multiple molecular signals mediate IL-1{beta}-induced anorexia, and that diverse peripheral sensory pathways, including a previously unappreciated contribution from non-vagal afferents, are critical links between systemic inflammation and neural control of appetite.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Proprioceptive Neurons in Somatosensory Cortex Implement Optimal State Estimation
The primary somatosensory cortex (S1) is essential for skilled limb movement, yet how functional ensembles within this diverse cortical network regulate motor control is poorly understood. Here, we identified a stable population of proprioceptive S1 neurons in layer 2/3 and investigated how their selective removal impacts goal-directed motor execution. Their microablation caused natural movement variability to collapse into stereotyped trajectories, a deficit that computational modeling identified as a failure in optimal state estimation. We further demonstrate that S1 engagement is temporally phased, intervening during high-precision grasping and retrieval rather than initial reaching. Our results establish a direct link between a functionally defined subset of cortical neurons and a core postulate of optimal control theory. These neurons operate within an S1 circuit specialized for integrating sensory feedback during phases requiring fine motor refinement.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Mitigating activity mixing with personalized whole-brain modeling
Mechanistic neuroimaging-based biomarkers based on localized brain activities or interactions are a central tenet in precision and personalized psychiatry. However, their accuracy may be limited by Activity Mixing that is a novel construct indicating the entanglement of any local neuronal activity with activities elsewhere in the network through long-range spatiotemporal correlations, which degrades the localization of brain-symptom associations. Here, we posit that the ill-posed inverse problem of activity mixing can be mitigated by fitting of generative whole-brain models. We developed a multi-objective fitting approach to estimate subject-specific local- and inter-areal brain-dynamics control parameters from neuroimaging observables. By integrating both synchronization and criticality metrics, this approach yields personalized parameters capture individual brain network dynamics more accurately than raw observables. In silico validation demonstrated that fitted model parameters improved brain-symptom correlation estimates by 30-85% and reduced false-negative rates by approximately ~67% relative to conventional observables-based analyses. As in vivo proof-of-concept, resting-state magnetoencephalography (MEG) data from 230 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) showed that aberrant brain criticality in the alpha-frequency band (11 Hz) was a significant predictor of disability with a correlation coefficient of 0.236 (95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.206, 0.266]) in 27 (CI = [23, 31]) significant cortical parcels. Model fitting both improved this correlation estimate by ~56% up to 0.368 (CI = [0.341, 0.405]) and localized it ~25% more narrowly to 20 (CI = [18, 22]) parcels. These findings suggest that model fitting can mitigate the effects of activity mixing and provide control-parameter estimates that delineate mechanistic biomarkers for brain disorders more accurately than the raw brain imaging observables.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Native receptor-targeted chemogenetics enables cell-type-specific inhibition of endogenous receptors in freely moving mice
Understanding brain function requires tools that allow precise manipulation of receptor signaling in defined cell types within intact neural circuits. Optogenetics and conventional chemogenetic approaches primarily enable cell-type-specific control of neuronal excitability using engineered receptors or ion channels. However, direct and reversible inhibition of endogenous neurotransmitter receptors in defined cell types has remained technically inaccessible. Here, we introduce native receptor-targeted chemogenetics (NARCH), a chemogenetic strategy that integrates structure-guided receptor engineering with allosteric ligand design to achieve reversible and temporally precise inhibition of endogenous receptor signaling with cell-type specificity in vivo. By applying NARCH to metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGlu1), we demonstrate that mGlu1 signaling in cerebellar Purkinje cells is required for stabilization of motor learning across training sessions in freely moving mice. NARCH thus establishes a receptor-level chemogenetic framework for causal analysis of neural circuits and behavior.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Interdigitating coiled-coil tetramers define the helical architecture of GFAP filaments in astrocytes
GFAP filaments are core elements of the cytoskeleton in astrocytes, shaping cellular processes and influencing central nervous system function and pathology. How these filaments are built at the molecular level has remained unclear. Using cryo-electron microscopy and cryo-electron tomography, we show that GFAP filaments are helical polymers assembled from extended and twisted coiled-coil tetramers that interdigitate to form a complex filament tube. In the filament lumen, the low-complexity head domains aggregate to form a flexible fibre, while the tail domains extend from the surface and facilitate higher-order bundling of the filaments, indicating that both the low-complexity structural regions and the well-ordered coiled-coils of the filament tube contribute to the unique structure of GFAP filaments. Our findings provide molecular insights into the pathogenesis of Alexander Disease, localising multiple deleterious mutations to the critical interlock interaction between successive tetramers emergent in the final filament assembly.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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p70 ribosomal protein S6 Kinase (p70S6K) as a potential peripheral biomarker for mental symptoms in 16p11.2 deletion and duplication syndromes
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) encompass heterogeneous cognitive, motor, and psychiatric manifestations that typically require extensive behavioural assessments for characterization. Individuals carrying 16p11.2 copy number variations (CNVs), including both deletions and duplications, represent a relatively common NDD subgroup marked by wide variability in psychiatric symptoms, as well as metabolic and peripheral abnormalities, complicating prediction of disease trajectory and treatment response. The identification of biomarkers in easily accessible tissues, such as peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), could provide valuable tools for diagnosis and prognosis, yet remains an unmet clinical need. Converging evidence implicates dysregulation of ubiquitous signalling pathways, including ERK and mTOR cascades, in altered protein synthesis across both idiopathic and genetic NDDs. Here, using a hypothesis-driven screening approach, we examined candidate peripheral biomarkers in individuals with 16p11.2 deletions and duplications. We identified a significant reduction of ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K) levels in PBMCs across both genotypes. Notably, the magnitude of p70S6K reduction correlated with the severity of autistic symptoms independently of CNV genotype. In parallel, MAPK3/ERK1 protein levels mirrored gene dosage, showing increased expression in duplication carriers and reduced levels in deletion carriers, in accordance with the genotype. Collectively, these findings indicate that peripheral molecular alterations may support clinical stratification and suggest that p70S6K represents a promising biomarker for symptom severity and potentially treatment responsiveness in NDD patients carrying 16p11.2 CNVs.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Fragile streak goals induce pressure responses and an inverted-U performance pattern
Psychological pressure is thought to relate to performance in an inverted-U pattern, yet evidence is mixed, possibly because manipulations rarely produce high pressure. We induced scalable pressure using a streak goal that resets after a failure in a force-control task. Participants pursued ten consecutive successes (streak goal) or 100 successes irrespective of sequence (total goal). Under the streak goal, heart rate, pupil size, and perceived pressure rose as participants approached their maximum streak; under the total goal, heart rate and pupil size showed little modulation. Performance followed an inverted-U under the streak goal--improving then declining at the maximum streak--whereas the total goal showed no late-stage drop. This dissociation suggests the late-stage decline reflects pressure, not the streak itself. Despite this clear performance decrement, analyses of movement vigor, feedforward/feedback kinematics, and individual differences in pressure responses revealed no consistent systematic signatures at the group level. Fragile streak goals thus provide multimodal pressure manipulation and a platform for testing mechanisms of choking in human motor control.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Pan-cortical area sensorimotor network coordination during motor learning of forelimb-reaching task in the marmoset
Motor learning alters activities in multiple brain areas. While learning-induced activity change in these areas has been investigated, how the information flow changes in the network across those areas remains to be thoroughly examined. We analysed wide-field calcium imaging data spanning from the premotor cortex to the parietal cortex of marmosets while they learned a two-target forelimb-reaching task. We applied non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) to the activity data and extracted about 30 localized activity components. Encoding model analysis indicated that learning was associated with a decrease in activity components related to hand movements, and an increase in those related to external and reward signals. Causality analysis by embedding entropy (EE) revealed increases in causal links across activity components in different areas and stabilization of the network structure with behavioural improvements. These results indicate that motor learning entails both a redistribution of task-related activity and a reorganization of large-scale cortical network interactions.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Body-part tuning in the macaque superior temporal sulcus
AbstractNeurons in the macaque superior temporal sulcus respond selectively to faces and headless bodies, but their selectivity for individual body parts is not well understood. We recorded from the middle superior temporal sulcus and anterior superior temporal sulcus regions activated by whole monkeys in functional MRI to examine tuning for body parts, including heads. In experiment 1, body parts were shown in color, achromatic, or with scrambled internal features to test contributions of internal structure. In experiment 2, parts were presented at the same location and size as in whole-body images across viewpoints. In both regions, faces were represented distinctly from other body parts, and genitalia, rumps, and torso formed subclusters. A hand cluster appeared variably in anterior superior temporal sulcus. Units preferring body parts other than faces or hands did not form large anatomical clusters. Modeling with convolutional neural networks indicated that part tuning relies on mid- to high-level features. Scrambling internal features showed that these contribute to, but do not fully determine, body part representations. Non–head-preferring units showed stronger response suppression when their preferred part appeared within a body than did head-preferring units. Together, these findings indicate a distinction between face and other body-part representations, with stronger modulation by body context for non-head units.in Cerebral Cortex on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Resolving competition in auditory cortex: effects of emotional content and misophonia sensitivity
AbstractHow the human auditory cortex prioritizes relevant information amid concurrent sounds has been a long-standing question in auditory cognitive neuroscience. The present study used auditory steady-state responses to tag the electrocortical response to a tone embedded in concurrent naturalistic sounds, addressing methodological challenges with overlapping auditory streams. Participants endorsing low (high misophonia symptoms) or high misophonia symptoms—a condition with decreased tolerance to specific, typically orofacial, sounds—were recruited. Sounds varied in emotional valence (pleasant, neutral, unpleasant) to investigate how emotional content modulates attentional competition. Orofacial sounds were also included to evaluate how attentional biases are affected by inter-individual sensitivity toward a specific sound category. Affective ratings, alpha-band changes, and pupil dilation were also assessed. Hypothetical models of competition were tested, revealing a facilitation trend in the auditory steady-state responses amplitude when accompanied by pleasant and unpleasant, compared to neutral sounds, regardless of misophonia symptoms. However, auditory steady-state responses was selectively reduced in the high misophonia symptoms but not the high misophonia symptoms group when accompanied by orofacial sounds. Analyses of alpha-band, pupil, and rating data showed that the groups differed primarily in their response to pleasant sounds and orofacial sounds, with the high misophonia symptoms group exhibiting a stronger response to orofacial sounds than the high misophonia symptoms group.in Cerebral Cortex on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Rhythmic sampling and competition of target and distractor representations in visual sensory memory
AbstractRecent studies suggest that sustained visual attention operates rhythmically, as if the visual system periodically samples stimuli in the environment. Here, we present evidence for rhythmic sampling of internal representations of targets and distractors up to 1 s after visual stimulation offset. Twenty participants performed an anticipatory object-based visual attention task involving a short-lasting (50 ms) target object image. This task was made more challenging by the overlaid presentation of a distractor object image. We conducted a decoding analysis on stimulus-evoked electroencephalography to measure target and distractor information over the stimulus epoch, which extended almost 1,000 ms beyond the visual stimulus offset. We found that the magnitudes of target and distractor information represented in brain activity after the offset of the visual stimuli oscillated in the theta frequency range (4 to 8 Hz). This oscillatory period accords with previous characterizations of rhythmic attentional sampling of continuously visually presented stimuli. Moreover, greater target–distractor theta band phase differences correlated with improved task performance. Our findings show the following: (i) attention separately samples target and distractor representations in sensory memory, (ii) these separately sampled streams of information may mutually inhibit one another, and (iii) target discrimination improves when target and distractor sampling rhythms are desynchronized.in Cerebral Cortex on 2026-02-24 00:00:00 UTC.
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Sensory-Cell Population Integrity Required to Preserve Minimal and Normal Vestibulo-ocular Reflexes Reveals the Critical Role of Type I Hair Cells in Canal- and Otolith-Specific Functions
Vestibular dysfunction constitutes a major medical concern, and regeneration of hair cells (HCs) is a primary target of gene therapy aimed at restoring vestibular functions. Thus far, therapeutic trials in animal models targeting vestibular loss associated with genetic diseases have yielded variable and partial results, and the functional identity and quantity of HCs required to restore minimal or normal vestibular function remain undefined. Indeed, direct comparisons between structural pathology and quantitative assessments of vestibular dysfunctions are lacking in humans and are rather limited in animal models, representing a significant gap in current knowledge. Here, we present an innovative methodology to bridge the gap between HC integrity and functional vestibular loss in individual mice of either sex. Gradual vestibular deficits were induced through a dose-dependent ototoxic lesion, quantified with canal or utricular-specific vestibulo-ocular reflex tests, and were then correlated in all individuals with the loss of type I and type II HCs in different regions of ampulla and macula. Our findings reveal that the structure–function relationship is nonlinear, with lower bound of ~50% of HCs necessary to retain minimal vestibular function, and threshold exceeding 80% to preserve normal function, thus shedding light on population coding mechanisms for vestibular response. Our data further support the decisive role of type I, rather than type II, HC in the tested VOR functions.
in eNeuro on 2026-02-23 17:33:00 UTC.
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How sleeping minds decide: State-specific reconfigurations of lexical decision-making
by Tao Xia, Chuan-Peng Hu, Basak Türker, Esteban Munoz Musat, Lionel Naccache, Isabelle Arnulf, Delphine Oudiette, Xiaoqing Hu
Sleep has traditionally been conceptualized as a state of cognitive disconnection, yet emerging evidence indicates that decision-making capacities persist across sleep stages. Here, we elucidate the computational mechanisms underlying real-time lexical decision-making during polysomnographically-verified sleep, using facial electromyography and hierarchical drift diffusion modeling in both healthy individuals and participants with narcolepsy. We found that lexical decision-making was preserved during N1 and lucid REM sleep, but relied on distinct computational strategies: in N1 sleep, both enhanced sensory-motor processing and increased evidence accumulation supported decisions about words, whereas in lucid REM sleep, lexical decisions were driven exclusively by evidence accumulation processes. Cross-state comparisons revealed two fundamental principles: (1) Selective preservation—during N1 sleep, lexical decisions for words were maintained while those for pseudowords were selectively impaired, indicating that cognitive resources during sleep are preferentially allocated to meaningful stimuli; (2) Parallel strategic adaptations—during lucid REM sleep, participants increased their decision thresholds, requiring more evidence before responding, which helped maintain accuracy even though the efficiency of evidence accumulation was reduced. Our findings demonstrate that, rather than a passive decline, sleep involves dynamic and state-specific reconfiguration of the computational mechanisms underlying decision-making, with important implications for understanding consciousness and cognitive flexibility.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-23 14:00:00 UTC.
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Ten simple rules for building a collaborative coding culture
by Austin L. Zuckerman, Sarah Faber, Kelly Shen, Anthony R. McIntosh, Ashley L. Juavinett
in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-23 14:00:00 UTC.
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Ten simple rules for coordinating a large digital health project: Perspectives from EU and implications for global contexts
by Lucia Sacchi, Blaž Zupan, Silvana Quaglini
Coordinating a large-scale digital health project requires a unique mix of scientific leadership, administrative skill, and human sensitivity. Drawing from our experience leading CAPABLE, a European Horizon 2020 project aimed at improving the quality of life of cancer patients through AI and telemedicine, we present ten practical rules for navigating the complex landscape of multi-partner biomedical research. These rules address challenges such as building balanced consortia, managing timelines and regulatory requirements, ensuring cultural alignment, and promoting long-term impact through dissemination and exploitation. The paper specifically addresses international research projects at the intersection of healthcare and IT and their peculiar challenges, typically connected to the interplay of different actors such as academics, healthcare personnel, and industry partners located in different countries, each from diverse backgrounds and different working practices. Our goal is to provide researchers and project coordinators with concrete guidance to increase the likelihood of success in future large digital health initiatives.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-23 14:00:00 UTC.
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A novel transformer-based platform for the prediction and design of biosynthetic gene clusters for (un)natural products
by Tomoki Kawano, Taro Shiraishi, Tomohisa Kuzuyama, Maiko Umemura
Biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), comprising sets of functionally related genes responsible for synthesizing complex natural products, are a rich source of bioactive compounds with pharmaceutical potential. Here, we present a transformer-based framework that models functional domains as linguistic units to capture and predict their positional relationships within genomes. Using a RoBERTa architecture, we trained models on four progressively broader datasets: bacterial BGCs, Actinomycetes genomes, bacterial genomes, and bacterial plus fungal genomes. Evaluation using 2,492 experimentally-validated BGCs from the MIBiG database showed that more than 50% of true domains were ranked first and over 75% within the top 10 candidates. Our models also achieved classification accuracies exceeding 70% for major compound classes including polyketides (PKs) and terpenes. To explore model-guided BGC design, we compared predictions from the BGC-trained and genome-trained models using the BGC for the bacterial diterpenoid cyclooctatin as a case study. The genome-trained model uniquely predicted several domains absent from both the original BGC and the prediction by the BGC-trained model. Heterologous expression of one of those predicted domains in Streptomyces albus, together with the biosynthetic genes for cyclooctatin, yielded an unknown cyclooctatin derivative. This framework not only provides a novel BGC prediction method using machine learning but also facilitates rational design of artificial BGCs. Future integration of transcriptomic, protein structural, and phylogenetic data will enhance the models’ predictive and generative capabilities, supporting accelerated discovery and engineering of natural products.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-23 14:00:00 UTC.
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Frequency-specific attentional mechanisms phasically modulate the influence of distractors on task performance
by Zach V. Redding, Yun Ding, Ian C. Fiebelkorn
The Rhythmic Theory of Attention proposes that visual spatial attention is characterized by alternating states that promote either sampling at the present focus of attention or a higher likelihood of shifting attentional resources to another location. While theta-rhythmically (4–8 Hz) occurring windows of opportunity for shifting attentional resources might provide cognitive flexibility, these windows might also make us more susceptible to distractors. Here, we used EEG in humans to test how frequency-specific neural activity phasically influences behavioral performance and visual processing when high-contrast distractors co-occur with low-contrast targets. For trials with and without distractors, perceptual sensitivity at the cued target location depended on pre-stimulus theta phase (~7 Hz) recorded at central electrodes. For trials with distractors, there was a greater increase in false alarm rates at the same theta phase associated with lower hit rates (i.e., during the proposed “shifting state”), confirming theta-rhythmically occurring windows of increased susceptibility to distractors. In addition to these phase–behavior effects at central electrodes, we observed phase–behavior effects at frontocentral and occipital electrodes that (i) only occurred on trials with distractors, (ii) peaked in the alpha-frequency range (~9–10 Hz), and (iii) were strongest at occipital electrodes that were contralateral to distractors. Alpha phase at these electrodes was also associated with fluctuations in the amplitude of distractor-evoked visual responses, consistent with an alpha-mediated gating of distractors. The present findings thus provide evidence for distinct theta- and alpha-mediated mechanisms of spatial attention that phasically modulate the influence of distractors on task performance.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-23 14:00:00 UTC.
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Could sleep engineering be used to combat PTSD and depression?
by Penelope A. Lewis, Mahmoud E. A. Abdellahi
Sleep engineering could be developed to provide a drug-free, non-invasive avenue to treat depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Such an intervention would be greatly aided by the sophisticated detection of memory reactivations using machine learning classifiers. Could sleep engineering be developed to provide a drug-free, non-invasive avenue to treat depression and post-traumatic stress disorder? This Perspective proposes using machine learning with EEG signals to develop and optimize this type of intervention.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-23 14:00:00 UTC.
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Accuracy of Systemic Inflammatory Indices in identifying Neonatal Sepsis in preterms in a tertiary care hospital in Mangalore [version 2; peer review: 2 approved with reservations, 1 not approved]
Background The utility of Systemic Inflammatory Markers (SIMs) as accurate indicators of neonatal sepsis in the Indian population has not been shown in any current research. This study will assist in determining whether SIMs can be used to predict neonatal sepsis at the bedside and as an early sensitive predictor of sepsis in preterms. Methods A case-control study was done, where the Systemic Inflammatory Indices of the two groups of preterms – one control group without sepsis and one case group with sepsis–were compared to assess their value in predicting Neonatal Sepsis. Data from 138 preterm neonates were used in the present study. Systemic Inflammatory Indices were calculated from the collected data using the following formulae: 1) Systemic Immune Inflammatory Index (SII)=[platelet/lymphocyte]∗Neutrophil 2) Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI)=[monocyte/lymphocyte]∗Neutrophil 3) PanImmune Inflammation Value (PIV)=Platelet∗[monocyte/lymphocyte]∗Neutrophil 4) Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) 5) Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) 6) Monocyte to Lymphocyte Ratio (MLR). These values from both the case and control groups were compared. Results Platelet count had the highest predictive value, with an AUC value of 0.715 and optimal cut-off value of 219500. It had a sensitivity of 75.4 and specificity of 65.2. PIV had an AUC of 0.665, a sensitivity of 60.9, and a specificity of 68.1. For PLR, Sensitivity and specificity were 72.5 and 58, respectively, with an AUC of 0.668. With sensitivity and specificity of 66.7 and 62.3 respectively, SII had an AUC of 0.65. Conclusion There was substantial correlation between the studied hematological indices and positive cultures, suggesting their potential role as inflammatory markers. Larger prospective trials should be conducted to further validate their potential clinical value.in F1000Research on 2026-02-23 11:23:42 UTC.
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Intergovernmental Learning Exchange to Advance Data-Driven Decision Making: Experiences from Nigeria. [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]
Background Nigeria has strategically invested in digital health to achieve HIV/AIDS epidemic control, meet SDG health targets, and advance towards UHC. Despite progress, challenges persist. This paper details Nigeria’s commitment, in collaboration with PEPFAR, CDC, and other agencies, to address Health Information System (HIS) challenges through participation in the Intergovernmental Learning Exchange to Advance Data-Driven Decision Making (I-LEAD) programme. Methods The I-LEAD programme followed a three-phase approach: 1) conducted an expedited Informatics-Savvy Health Organisation (ISHO) assessment to identify critical national HIS challenges; 2) enhanced informatics capabilities of selected Nigerian delegates, including a purpose-fit session, Bring Your Own Difficult Decision (BYODD), involving SMEs to collaboratively refine, contextualise and guide the localised development of actionable solutions for national HIS challenges; and 3) outlined the nation’s approach to implementing the HIS solutions Results The expedited ISHO assessment identified five HIS challenges: governance, interoperability, data security, Electronic Medical Record (EMR) centralisation, and funding. Participating in the I-LEAD programme strengthened Nigeria’s leadership technical capacity in informatics, particularly in strategic visioning and planning, with the BYODD sessions resulting in the collaborative development of localised solutions to address the five HIS challenges. In the post-I-LEAD phase, efforts focused on two of the HIS solutions. These activities are 1) improving data quality through harmonisation of value data sets, and 2) decentralising I-LEAD learning and building the capacity of Public Health Informatics (PHI) technical groups through progressive levels of Growing Expertise in E-Health Knowledge and Skills (GEEKS) training. These activities were selected because of their potential to deliver the maximum impact within the HIS ecosystem. Conclusion Nigeria’s active participation and commitment through the I-LEAD programme have strengthened its digital health agenda, leveraging health informatics to enhance healthcare delivery and achieve broader health goals. This approach can serve as a model for other developing nations facing similar health informatics hurdles.in F1000Research on 2026-02-23 11:07:22 UTC.
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Synthesis and antimicrobial investigation of novel β-lactam derivatives [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background β-Lactam derivatives are widely studied due to their proven pharmacological benefits and capacity to suppress a wide range of microbiological infections. These compounds represent an important class of antibacterial agents, and continued structural modification of β-lactams remains essential to overcome antimicrobial resistance. The synthesis of new β-lactam scaffolds is therefore a key strategy in medicinal chemistry for the development of more effective antibacterial drugs. Objective The present study aimed to synthesize new β-lactam derivatives based on sulfapyridine Schiff bases and to evaluate their potential biological activity using experimental characterization and molecular docking analysis. Methods Sulfapyridine-based Schiff bases were prepared through condensation reactions and used as key intermediates for the synthesis of β-lactam derivatives. The synthesized compounds were confirmed using spectroscopic techniques, including FT-IR, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR. In this study, two types of β-lactam derivatives were synthesized. Condensation of the sulfanilamide drug with selected aromatic aldehydes in the presence of glacial acetic acid gives the corresponding Schiff bases [A1-A4]. The reaction of prepared Schiff bases with chloro acetyl chloride in the presence of triethylamine gave the first type of β-lactam derivatives [A5-A8]. The second type of β-lactam derivatives [A9-A12] were synthesized via cycloaddition between prepared Schiff bases with diclofenac acid in the presence of ρ-toluene sulfonyl chloride and trimethylamine. Biological activity was evaluated, and molecular docking studies were performed against the target protein (PDB ID: 1EA1). Results Several synthesized derivatives, including A7, A8, A9, and A12, demonstrated enhanced antibacterial activity and outperformed reference medications. Experimental and theoretical data indicated that β-lactam compounds represent viable scaffolds for the development of novel antibacterial agents. Compared to the reference drug amoxicillin (−7.5 kcal/mol), compounds A10 and A11 exhibited the lowest binding energies (−9.0 and −8.4 kcal/mol, respectively), suggesting strong interaction with the target protein. Conclusion The agreement between in vivo biological results and in silico molecular docking data supports the potential biological activity of the synthesized β-lactam derivatives. These findings highlight the importance of β-lactam scaffolds as promising candidates for future antibacterial drug development.in F1000Research on 2026-02-23 09:58:22 UTC.
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Fracture resistance of nanocomposite 3D-printed resins designated for teeth fabrication: An in vitro analysis before and after thermal aging [version 2; peer review: 1 approved with reservations]
Background: this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance and elastic modulus of modified 3D-printed resins containing zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (ZNPs) and silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SNPs). Methods: Tooth-colored 3D-printed resin samples (ASIGA (AS)) and NextDent (ND)) were modified with silanized ZNPs and SNPs. Five groups (n=100) were prepared for each resin type, one without nanoparticles, and four groups (n=20 per group) with varying nanoparticles concentrations (0.5 wt. %ZNP, 1 wt.%ZNP, 0.5 wt.%SNP, and 1 wt.%SNP). Half of the specimens (110 samples) were subjected to thermal aging (TA; 5000 cycles). The fracture resistance and elastic modulus were evaluated, followed by Fourier-transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy analyses. An analysis of variance and Tukey’s post-hoc test were applied for data analysis. Results: Incorporating SNPs and ZNPs into the ND material significantly improved the fracture resistance compared to that of the control group, with 1 wt.%SNP showing the highest resistance (1405.9±128.4 MPa) and 0.5 wt.%ZNP the lowest (1047.5±100.6 MPa). However, the elastic modulus decreased notably with these additions, with the ND control group (3097.5±115.9 MPa) exhibiting the highest elastic modulus and ZNP groups (1772.0±128.8 MPa) exhibiting the lowest. In between NPs-reinforced groups per NPs type, there were no significant differences between SNPs groups (p=0.064) as well as ZNPs groups (p=0.072). For the AS material, similar enhancements in fracture resistance occurred; however, reductions in the elastic modulus were more significant in the ND material (p<0.001*). For the AS material, SNP and ZNP addition improved fracture resistance relative to that of the control group. Post-TA, the elastic modulus significantly decreased in both the ND and AS materials (p < 0.05). Compared to ND material, the increase in fracture resistance was less pronounced in the AS material. Conclusion: The addition of ZNPs and SNPs increased the fracture resistances of both materials. TA significantly reduced the fracture resistance and elastic modulus in most NP-incorporated groups. The ASIGA resin demonstrated superior performance and enhancements were more prominent which demonstrates promising characteristics for clinical use.in F1000Research on 2026-02-23 09:22:53 UTC.
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The effects of 6 weeks of high load or low-load blood flow restriction resistance exercise training on motor unit firing rates in males and females
Journal of Neurophysiology, Volume 135, Issue 3, Page 547-556, March 2026.
in Journal of Neurophysiology on 2026-02-23 08:36:01 UTC.
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A neural language for the cerebellum: control of behavior via competing populations of Purkinje cells
Journal of Neurophysiology, Volume 135, Issue 3, Page 557-578, March 2026.
in Journal of Neurophysiology on 2026-02-23 08:35:56 UTC.
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Weight-bearing symmetry changes after asymmetric surface stiffness walking
Journal of Neurophysiology, Volume 135, Issue 3, Page 579-589, March 2026.
in Journal of Neurophysiology on 2026-02-23 08:35:55 UTC.
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The way of life: The network challenge of blood flow in the brain
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Volume 123, Issue 9, March 2026.
in PNAS on 2026-02-23 08:00:00 UTC.
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Understanding Accessibility Needs of Senior Visitors in Religious Environments: A Scoping Review Protocol on Inclusive and Universal Design Applications [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background The unique accessibility needs of the ageing population in India must be considered across a range of public spaces by adopting inclusive design solutions that address the comfort, mobility, and sensory stimulation. By making these adjustments, religious places can foster a welcoming, accessible environment, allowing elderly visitors to participate in religious activities and maintain their spiritual well-being. This scoping review protocol aims to examine the specific accessibility needs of senior visitors to religious places through the perspectives of Inclusive design principles. The study aims to investigate the application of inclusive design and related concepts in peer-reviewed articles that address the physical accessibility of senior visitors in religious settings. Methods This scoping review will be conducted following the methodological framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) and further refined by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines for scoping reviews. The review process will adopt the Population–Concept–Context (PCC) framework to formulate the research questions and inclusion criteria, ensuring a systematic approach to identifying relevant studies. Peer-reviewed studies published in English and indexed in Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases from their inception to 2025 will be considered, irrespective of geographical location. The screening and selection of articles will be carried out independently by two reviewers to ensure reliability and minimize bias. Extracted data will be organized with the Theory–Context–Characteristics–Methodology (TCCM) Framework. Discussions This scoping review maps existing literature on accessibility considerations for senior visitors in religious spaces using the TCCM (Theory–Context–Characteristics–Methodology) framework. The findings aim to enhance the comfort and participation of elderly visitors. Addressing the identified gaps requires focused efforts to design and implement architectural solutions that respond to the specific accessibility needs of older adults, ensuring that religious places remain welcoming and accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Registration This scoping review protocol was registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF): DOI for OSF: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/GYJ4Rin F1000Research on 2026-02-23 06:11:57 UTC.
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Subiculum Encodes Environmental Structure
ABSTRACT
Subiculum is strongly interconnected with multiple brain regions that together form the brain's distributed cognitive map. The possible functional roles for dorsal subiculum within this system are many, including transmission of the hippocampal map of environmental location, integration of information related to location, orientation, and boundary proximity, and transition of spatial encoding into navigational actions. In this review, we consider evidence for each of these possible roles and contrast them with a potential role for subiculum in the encoding of environmental structure. We conclude that subiculum neuron tuning to boundaries and their orientations, boundary corners and their angles, axes of travel, and structurally analogous locations forms the basis for the encoding of overall environmental shape and the layout of path networks.
in Hippocampus on 2026-02-23 04:36:15 UTC.
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Layer‐Specific Astrocyte Morphological Responses in the CA3 Hippocampus Region During Piry Virus‐Induced Encephalitis
ABSTRACT
Astrocytes from distinct hippocampal layers exhibit region-specific morphological traits, which may be influenced by their local microenvironment. During viral encephalitis, these cells undergo dynamic changes that can reflect layer-specific vulnerability. In this study, we characterized whether astrocytes from different CA3 hippocampal layers display distinct morphological responses to Piry virus-induced encephalitis. Adult female Swiss mice were intranasally inoculated with the Piry virus and sacrificed at 20- or 40-days post-infection (dpi). GFAP+ astrocytes from the Stratum lacunosum-moleculare (SLM) and Stratum oriens (SO) were three-dimensionally reconstructed. Morphometric data were evaluated using hierarchical clustering, linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and generalized linear models. Immunohistochemistry confirmed widespread viral neuroinvasion across olfactory and limbic regions. Hierarchical clustering identified 3–4 morphotypes per layer and time point with robust internal consistency, and LDA validated cluster assignments with high accuracy (> 91%). At 20 dpi, SLM astrocytes displayed significantly greater morphological complexity than SO astrocytes, whereas at 40 dpi responses were more heterogeneous, indicating temporal diversification of astrocytic reactivity. These findings provide an observational description of layer- and time-dependent astrocyte morphological plasticity during viral encephalitis. They underscore the value of morphometric and multivariate analyses for dissecting glial heterogeneity, while highlighting the need for future studies to determine the functional significance of these morphotypes.
in Hippocampus on 2026-02-23 04:30:16 UTC.
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Electrical Impedance Myography Detects Disease Progression over 12 to 24 Months in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy
Objective
Targeted therapies for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) are progressing through clinical trials. Electrical impedance myography (EIM) provides a noninvasive biomarker of muscle composition that may be valuable especially in early phase trials. This study evaluated EIM data from a multicenter FSHD cohort over 24 months.
Methods
Adult patients with FSHD at 8 sites underwent EIM in 6 muscles bilaterally (deltoid, biceps, triceps, vastus lateralis, tibialis anterior, and medial gastrocnemius). EIM outcomes phase and reactance (50 and 100 kHz [kilohertz] frequencies) and 50 of 211 kHz phase ratio were evaluated for reliability, correlations with clinical measures, and sensitivity to change.
Results
One hundred fifty-seven patients (53% male patients) were included. Test–retest reliability was excellent for all EIM outcomes (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] ≥0.94). Phase outcomes strongly correlated with the FSHD-composite outcome measure (FSHD-COM; r ≤ −0.69) and Motor Function Measure Domain 1 (MFM1; r ≥ 0.75); reactance outcomes exhibited moderate correlations with the FSHD-COM (r ≥ –0.41) and MFM1 (r ≤ 0.44). Mean declines in phase and phase ratio were apparent at 12 months (eg, –0.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] = –0.45 to –0.05 at 50 kHz), and further progressed through 24 months (–0.66, 95% CI = –0.92 to –0.40] at 50 kHz and –0.65 [95% CI = –0.87 to –0.44] at 100 kHz; both p < 0.0001). Reactance changes were smaller and not significant: –0.21 (95% CI = –0.44 to 0.02) at 50 kHz and –0.13 (95% CI = –0.35 to 0.10) at 100 kHz.
Interpretation
EIM phase outcomes are reliable, valid, and sensitive to change over 12 to 24 months, supporting their potential utility as biomarkers in FSHD clinical trials. ANN NEUROL 2026
in Annals of Neurology on 2026-02-23 04:05:05 UTC.
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Alternative Translation Initiation in PRKN Delays the Onset of Parkinson's Disease and Offers a Therapeutic Target
Objective
Biallelic variants in PRKN cause autosomal recessive Parkinson's disease (PD) with a median age at onset of 31 years. When evaluating the 16 previously published carriers of a homozygous deletion of Exon 2 from the International Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Society Gene Database (MDSGene) database, the median age at onset is later (39.5 years) than in carriers of other PRKN pathogenic variants. We investigated whether these carriers show delayed disease onset compared with carriers of other pathogenic PRKN variants and explored the underlying molecular mechanism.
Methods
We compared 26 homozygous PRKN Exon 2 deletion carriers with carriers of other pathogenic variants. Using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neuronal cell models from an unaffected 86-year-old carrier, genome-edited control lines, neuroblastoma cell lines, and in silico prediction, we investigated the underlying mechanism.
Results
Patients with PRKN Exon 2 deletions showed a later age at onset compared with carriers of other pathogenic variants. We discovered elevated levels of an N-terminally truncated Parkin proteoform lacking amino acids 1–79 due to internal translation initiation. This truncated protein partially retained ubiquitin ligase activity at endogenous levels. Treatment with Parkin modulator BIO-2007817 enhanced this residual function but reduced endogenous full-length Parkin activity.
Interpretation
Residual truncated Parkin function provides a molecular explanation for a delayed disease onset in PRKN Exon 2 deletion carriers. Whereas this retained activity can be pharmacologically enhanced, the modulator's inhibitory effect on endogenous full-length Parkin may mandate strict patient stratification based on genotype. This finding offers mutation-specific counseling opportunities and highlights a potential therapeutic approach for appropriately selected patients with PARK-PRKN. ANN NEUROL 2026
in Annals of Neurology on 2026-02-23 04:00:12 UTC.
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More than microglial depletion: PLX5622 activates the hepatic constitutive androstane receptor to alter anesthesia and addiction
Cao et al. show that the CSF1R inhibitor PLX5622 not only eliminates microglia but also potently activates CAR in the mouse liver. Altered injectable anesthesia and addiction after PLX5622 treatment arise primarily from prominent xenobiotic responses and enhanced drug metabolism upon CAR activation.in Neuron: In press on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Before the first bite: Do olfactory expectations shape gastric feelings and functions?
More than passive sensory inputs, odors exert proactive influences on homeostasis and cognition. Ciccarone et al. propose that olfactory signals act as predictive priors for gastric interoception, reframing gut sensations as expectation-driven experiences that actively shape interoceptive inference.in Neuron: In press on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Targeting UGCG sensitizes AML cells to venetoclax through RAB32-mediated endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria communication
Sun et al. demonstrate that targeting UGCG in combination with venetoclax is an alternative combinatory strategy to treat AML and provide insights for ceramide-mediated cell death in anti-cancer therapies.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Glutathione is critical for NK cell-mediated immunity
Guerra et al. show that glutathione (GSH) sustains IL-15-driven NK cell metabolism and effector functions. Loss of GSH unleashes T cell immunity and improves viral clearance. In contrast, NK cell-mediated control of metastases, but not solid tumors, critically depends on GSH.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Viral action on the auxin signaling repressor IAA16 reveals a conserved negative regulator of plant growth and immunity
Chen et al. report that viral proteins subvert both plant growth and immunity by stabilizing the master negative regulator IAA16 via disrupting the recruitment of the E3 ubiquitin ligase ATL52. IAA16 represses auxin signaling-mediated growth and interacts with OBP4 to activate NPR3 transcription, thereby dampening salicylic acid-mediated immunity.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Src promotes tumor cell invasion by hijacking the translation machineries
Bonnard et al. demonstrate the determinant role of the Src oncogene in protein synthesis regulation through canonical and non-canonical pathways. The specific Src-regulated targets are essential for invadosome formation leading to tumor cell invasion.in Cell Reports: Current Issue on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Markovnikov hydroamination of terminal alkenes via phosphine redox catalysis
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-10263-7
Markovnikov hydroamination of terminal alkenes via phosphine redox catalysisin Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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From Victorian voyages to vanishing maps: Books in brief
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00567-z
Andrew Robinson reviews five of the best science picks.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Why every scientist needs a librarian
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00568-y
Librarians can be key research partners who help to scour the literature, manage data and make science open.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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AI tools can design genomes. Will they upend how life evolves?
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00566-0
Breakthroughs in computing are supercharging a field of science dedicated to building synthetic organisms from scratch.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Iron Age mass grave reveals unprecedented violence against women and children
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00535-7
Women and children moving through Europe became victims of mass violence.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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First-of-a-kind stem-cell therapies set for approval in Japan
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00585-x
Regenerative medicines are headed for people with Parkinson’s disease or severe heart failure — but researchers are concerned about minimal clinical-trial data.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Whistle while you whinny: researchers identify two sounds straight from the horse’s mouth
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00545-5
The ability to make two distinct sounds at once is shared with human beat boxers and throat singers.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Historically Black US universities chase top research ranking
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00366-6
Howard University is reaping the rewards of becoming the first such institution to reach ‘R1’ status.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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This AI can improve your peer review — and make it more polite
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00536-6
A system of five models helps peer reviewers to write more constructive comments, but it is not yet known whether this strengthens the papers that are being reviewed.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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How big is the ‘motherhood penalty’? In Denmark, it adds up to $120,000
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00463-6
An analysis documents the cumulative income hit mothers incur — as well as the extent to which state aid can offset the loss.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Music is not a universal language — but it can bring us together when words fail
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00565-1
Societies, animals and even machines have music in common. Our varied experiences of it might tell us about the origins of language.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Daily briefing: New AI drug-discovery engine is ‘on the scale of an AlphaFold4’
Nature, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-00605-w
Scientists are impressed by a new AI model that predicts drug-molecule interactions. Plus, giant tortoises are once again roaming on a Galápagos island and why science still can’t explain the art of curling.in Nature on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Convolutional neural network models describe the encoding subspace of local circuits in auditory cortex
Nature Neuroscience, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41593-026-02216-0
Wingert, Parida and colleagues measured tuning subspaces from deep-learning models trained on single neurons in auditory cortex. They show that subspaces distinguish functional properties between neuronal subtypes and describe a framework for sparse, efficient coding of natural sounds.in Nature Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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A crowd of marine embryos self-assembles into a living solid
Nature Physics, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41567-026-03190-x
Marine embryos are usually studied in isolation. But when starfish embryos are in a crowd, they self-assemble into living solids with unexpected dynamics, revealing how simple organisms can help understand physics far from equilibrium.in Nature Physics on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Sensing with discrete time crystals
Nature Physics, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41567-025-03163-6
It is shown that an a.c. field exponentially extends the lifetime of a prethermal time crystal realized with nuclear spins in diamond, enabling a narrowband detection of magnetic fields.in Nature Physics on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Author Correction: Associative conditioning in gene regulatory network models increases integrative causal emergence
Communications Biology, Published online: 23 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s42003-026-09668-x
Author Correction: Associative conditioning in gene regulatory network models increases integrative causal emergencein Nature communications biology on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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The influence of sample size and covariate distributions on neuroanatomical normative modeling
Normative models are increasingly used to characterize individual-level brain deviations in neuroimaging studies, but their performance depends heavily on the reference sample used for training or adaptation. In this study, we systematically investigated how sample size and covariate composition of the reference cohort influence model fit, deviation estimates, and clinical readouts in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using a discovery dataset (OASIS-3, n = 1032), we trained models on healthy control (HC), subsamples ranging from 5 to 600 individuals, while varying age and sex distributions to simulate biases in reference populations. We further assessed the use of adaptive transfer learning by pre-training models on the UK Biobank (n = 42,747) and adapting them to the clinical dataset applying the same subsampling strategies. We evaluated model performance on a fixed HC test set and quantified deviation score errors, outlier detection, and classification accuracy in both the HC test set and the AD cohort. The findings were replicated in an external validation sample (AIBL, n = 463). Across all settings, model performance improved with increasing sample size, but demographic alignment of the covariates, particularly in age, was essential for reliable deviation estimates. Models trained directly within the dataset achieved stable fit with approximately 200 HCs, while adapted models reached comparable performance with as few as 50 individuals when pre-trained on large-scale data. These results show that robust individual-level modeling can be achieved using moderately sized but demographically matched cohorts, supporting broader application of normative modeling in aging and neurodegeneration research.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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High-throughput neutralization measurements correlate strongly with evolutionary success of human influenza strains
Human influenza viruses rapidly acquire mutations in their hemagglutinin (HA) protein that erode neutralization by antibodies from prior exposures. Here, we use a sequencing-based assay to measure neutralization titers for 78 recent H3N2 HA strains against a large set of children and adult sera, measuring ~10,000 total titers. There is substantial person-to-person heterogeneity in the titers against different viral strains, both within and across age cohorts. The growth rates of H3N2 strains in the human population in 2023 are highly correlated with the fraction of sera with low titers against each strain. Notably, strain growth rates are less correlated with neutralization titers against pools of human sera, demonstrating the importance of population heterogeneity in shaping viral evolution. Overall, these results suggest that high-throughput neutralization measurements of human sera against many different viral strains can help explain the evolution of human influenza.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Dynamics of mesoscale brain network during visual discrimination learning revealed by chronic, large-scale single-unit recording
Associating unfamiliar stimuli with appropriate behavior through experience is crucial for survival. While task-relevant information was found to be distributed across multiple brain regions, how regional nodes in this distributed network reorganize their functional interactions throughout learning remains to be elucidated. Here, we performed chronic, large-scale single-unit recording across 10 cortical and subcortical regions using ultra-flexible microelectrode arrays in mice performing a visual decision-making task and tracked mesoscale functional network dynamics throughout learning. Task learning reshaped interregional functional connectivity, leading to the emergence of a subnetwork involving visual and frontal regions during the acquisition of correct No-Go responses. This reorganization was accompanied by a more widespread representation of visual stimulus across regions, and a region’s network rank strongly predicted its peak timing of visual information encoding. Together, our findings revealed that mesoscale networks undergo dynamic restructuring during learning, with functional connectivity ranks influencing the propagation of sensory information across the network.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Scaling up efforts to target evolving viruses
High-throughput neutralisation tests could lead to a better understanding of the evolution of human influenza.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Structure of the human CTF18−RFC clamp loader bound to PCNA
Sliding clamps like PCNA are crucial processivity factors for replicative polymerases, requiring specific clamp loaders for loading onto DNA. The human alternative clamp loader CTF18–RFC interacts with the leading strand polymerase Pol ε and loads PCNA onto primer/template DNA using its RFC pentameric module. Here, we provide a structural characterization of the human CTF18–RFC complex and its interaction with PCNA. Our cryo-EM data support that the Ctf8 and Dcc1 subunits of CTF18–RFC, which form the regulatory module interacting with Pol ε, are flexibly tethered to the RFC module. A 2.9 Å cryo-EM structure shows the RFC module bound to PCNA in an autoinhibited conformation similar to the canonical RFC loader, marking the initial step of the clamp-loading reaction. The unique RFC1 (Ctf18) large subunit of CTF18–RFC, which based on the cryo-EM map shows high relative flexibility, is anchored to PCNA through an atypical low-affinity PIP box in the AAA+ domain and engages the RFC5 subunit using a novel β-hairpin at the disordered N-terminus. We show that deletion of this β-hairpin impairs the CTF18–RFC−PCNA complex stability, slows down clamp loading, and decreases the rate of primer synthesis by Pol ε. Our research identifies distinctive structural characteristics of the human CTF18–RFC complex, providing insights into its role in PCNA loading and the stimulation of leading strand synthesis by Pol ε.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Single transcript level atlas of oxytocin and the oxytocin receptor in the mouse brain
Oxytocin (OXT), a primitive nonapeptide known to regulate reproduction and social behaviors, is synthesized primarily in the hypothalamus and is secreted via hypophyseal-portal system of the posterior pituitary gland. In line with the premise that pituitary hormones, traditionally thought of as regulators of single targets, display an array of central and peripheral actions, we found that OXT directly affects bone and body composition. The effect of OXT on bone remodeling are physiologically relevant, as elevated OXT levels during pregnancy and lactation cause calcium mobilization from the maternal skeleton for intergenerational calcium transfer towards fetal bone mineralization. There is an equally large body of evidence that has established the presence of OXT receptors (OXTRs) in the brain through which central functions, such as social bonding, and peripheral functions, such as the regulation of body composition, are exerted. To purposefully address effects of OXT on the brain, we used RNAscope to map OXT and OXTR expression, at the single transcript level, in the whole female and male mouse brains. Identification of brain nuclei with the highest OXT and OXTR transcript density sheds further light on functional OXT nodes that could be further interrogated experimentally to define new physiologic circuitry.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Protein-induced membrane strain drives supercomplex formation
Mitochondrial membranes harbor the electron transport chain (ETC) that powers oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and drives the synthesis of ATP. Yet, under physiological conditions, the OXPHOS proteins operate as higher-order supercomplex (SC) assemblies, although their functional role remains poorly understood and much debated. By combining large-scale atomistic and coarse-grained molecular simulations with analysis of cryo-electron microscopic data and statistical as well as kinetic models, we show here that the formation of the mammalian I/III2 supercomplex reduces the molecular strain of inner mitochondrial membranes by altering the local membrane thickness and leading to an accumulation of both cardiolipin and quinone around specific regions of the SC. We find that the SC assembly also affects the global motion of the individual ETC proteins with possible functional consequences. On a general level, our findings suggest that molecular crowding and strain effects provide a thermodynamic driving force for the SC formation, with a possible flux enhancement in crowded biological membranes under constrained respiratory conditions.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Inverted encoding of neural responses to audiovisual stimuli reveals super-additive multisensory enhancement
A central challenge for the brain is how to combine separate sources of information from different sensory modalities to optimally represent objects and events in the external world, such as combining someone’s speech and lip movements to better understand them in a noisy environment. At the level of individual neurons, audiovisual stimuli often elicit super-additive interactions, where the neural response is greater than the sum of auditory and visual responses. However, investigations using electroencephalography (EEG) to record brain activity have revealed inconsistent interactions, with studies reporting a mix of super- and sub-additive effects. A possible explanation for this inconsistency is that standard univariate analyses obscure multisensory interactions present in EEG responses by overlooking multivariate changes in activity across the scalp. To address this shortcoming, we investigated EEG responses to audiovisual stimuli using inverted encoding, a population tuning approach that uses multivariate information to characterise feature-specific neural activity. Participants (n=41) completed a spatial localisation task for both unisensory stimuli (auditory clicks, visual flashes) and combined audiovisual stimuli (spatiotemporally congruent clicks and flashes). To assess multivariate changes in EEG activity, we used inverted encoding to recover stimulus location information from event-related potentials (ERPs). Participants localised audiovisual stimuli more accurately than unisensory stimuli alone. For univariate ERP analyses, we found an additive multisensory interaction. By contrast, multivariate analyses revealed a super-additive interaction ~180 ms following stimulus onset, such that the location of audiovisual stimuli was decoded more accurately than that predicted by maximum likelihood estimation. Our results suggest that super-additive integration of audiovisual information is reflected within multivariate patterns of activity rather than univariate evoked responses.in eLife on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Abstract Encoding of Sounds in the Frontopolar Cortex
The frontopolar cortex has been linked to higher-order cognition, including analogical reasoning, cost-benefit analysis, and semantic associations, primarily based on neuroimaging studies in humans rather than from direct single-neuron recordings. Notably, sensory input to this region originates from auditory cortical areas. To investigate the role of the frontopolar cortex in auditory perception, we recorded single neurons in nonhuman primates trained to discriminate between various sounds, including monkey calls and human words. We found that individual neurons form abstract, nonlinear representations of learned and novel sounds, collectively encoding all sound categories and generating decision-making signals. Our findings suggest that the frontopolar cortex integrates auditory information into behaviorally relevant signals, thereby providing insights regarding its role in cognition.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Premyelinating Oligodendrocyte Survival Governs CNS Remyelination
Myelinating oligodendrocytes are produced throughout life by the constitutive differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). However, the rate of oligodendrocyte generation changes with age and after a demyelinating injury. Here, we report that variation in premyelinating oligodendrocyte (preOL) survival modulates the rate of oligodendrocyte production. PreOL survival increased to drive the regeneration of oligodendrocytes after demyelination and decreased in middle-aged mice to contribute to age-related decline in oligodendrocyte production. Furthermore, we demonstrate that treatment with a GPR17 antagonist, Myro-02, increases oligodendrocyte replacement by promoting preOL survival after demyelination. Together, our findings demonstrate that increased survival of preOLs governs the regeneration of oligodendrocytes following demyelinating injury and suggest that modulating preOL survival may be an alternative therapeutic avenue to promote oligodendrocyte regeneration.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Diffuse predictions stabilize and reshape the neural code during working memory encoding
Predictions can alter working memory (WM) representations. However, its effects may have been mischaracterized due to the use of precise predictions in previous experiments, where exact properties of upcoming memory items are cued in advance. Here we investigated a more ecologically valid scenario, in which we assessed the impact of diffuse predictions, where advance cues provided only partial knowledge about the targets. To investigate the resultant nature of the target representations in WM, we performed a series of multivariate analyses of EEG data. Forty participants judged whether a probe grating was rotated clockwise or counterclockwise relative to a memorized orientation, which was either predictable or unpredictable. Each memory item was preceded by a central color cue (red, green, or blue). In half of the trials, two of these (predictive) colors cued two non-overlapping 90-degree segments of orientations that the grating was sampled from. Thus, participants knew the range of possible orientations of these items, but not their exact orientation. In the other half of the trials, a third (non-predictive) color was presented, signaling that the item could have any possible orientation. Behavioral results revealed higher accuracy for predictable items, with systematic biases toward the center of the cued segment. EEG results revealed equally successful decoding of orientation for both predictable and unpredictable items during memory encoding. However, cross-condition decoding was significantly weaker than within-condition decoding, suggesting that the encoding format changed between conditions. Representational similarity analysis showed higher similarity between predictable items, with a representational bias towards the cued segment. Covariance matrices showed lower variance for predictable items while the representational space of predictable items was shrunk. These effects were absent during the maintenance phase. Together, our findings suggest that diffuse predictions alter the geometric layout of the neural representations and stabilize the neural code during WM encoding.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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The Adaptive Brain Across Development: Age Related Changes in Cortical Adaptation
How does the functionality of the cortex change from infancy to adulthood to support the developmental cognitive shift from learners to performers? Cortical adaptation is a simple neural mechanism which plays a key role in learning and memory encoding, but little is known about how it develops across the lifespan. Both infants and adults have been found to respond differently to repeating audio and visual stimuli, suggesting differences in cortical adaptation throughout development. However, studies typically approach these populations through different paradigms and interpret the results in terms of different cognitive models. To overcome these issues, we implemented an identical paradigm across all age groups to examine cortical adaptation and its developmental trajectory. We used functional near infra-red spectroscopy (fNIRS) to chart how different regions in the infant, child and adult brain respond to repeating audiovisual stimuli at varying inter-stimulus intervals (ISIs), using cortical adaptation as a proxy for implicit memory dynamics. We found faster recovery from adaptation in infants compared to children and adults. Specifically, there was an interaction between stimulus presentation rate and age in the right temporal, left parietal and occipital cortical areas. There was also a developmental progression in functional connectivity, with infants displaying significantly lower correlations between regions of interest than children and adults. Taken together, we suggest these findings may reflect the developmental trajectory of cortical adaptation from a learning system optimized for maximal information intake and minimal filtering of stimuli to a specialized integrative system that efficiently filters and adapts to information.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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CRISPR/CAS9-MEDIATED LOSS OF VESICULAR GLUTAMATE TRANSPORTER IN SEROTONIN NEURONS OF THE DORSAL RAPHE NUCLEUS LEADS TO SYNAPTIC CHANGES AND ANXIETY-LIKE BEHAVIORS
Vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (VGluT3) is expressed in a large subset of serotonin (5-HT) neurons of the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN), suggesting a potential for glutamate co-transmission. Although VGluT3 has been implicated in the physiology of several non-glutamatergic neuronal populations, its specific role in the organization and function of 5-HT axons remains unclear. Here, we used CRISPR-Cas9 mediated knockdown and viral overexpression of VGluT3 in DRN 5-HT neurons of adult mice to assess its contribution to synaptic architecture in the lateral hypothalamus (LHA) and to 5-HT-related behaviors. VGluT3 depletion did not significantly alter synaptic incidence or organization of 5-HT DRN terminals in the LHA. In contrast, VGluT3 overexpression increased the proportion of asymmetric synapses without changing the overall synaptic incidence. In behavioral assays, VGluT3 depletion impaired motor coordination and increased anxiety-like, repetitive, and social behavior, whereas VGluT3 overexpression selectively reduced repetitive behavior. Basal locomotion and depressive-like behaviors were unchanged by either manipulation. Together, these findings indicate that VGluT3 modulates both the structural organization and behavioral output of DRN 5-HT neurons, supporting a modulatory role for VGluT3-dependent signaling within 5-HT circuits.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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p75 neurotrophin receptor signaling through the RhoA/ROCK pathway contributes to Alzheimers Disease tauopathy
Therapeutic development in Alzheimers Disease (AD) has for the most part been focused on reducing {beta}-amyloid load. Nevertheless, neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), produced by aggregation of hyper-phosphorylated Tau protein, correlate with neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment significantly better than amyloid accumulation in AD patients. Here we report that P301S mice, a model of AD tauopathy, carrying mutant variants of the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) deficient in RhoA/ROCK signaling are protected from neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment. Both p75{triangleup}DD, lacking the death domain, and triple mutant p75KKEA, unable to interact with RhoGDI, decreased NFT levels, reduced gliosis, neurodegeneration and synapse loss, and improved spatial learning and memory in P301S mice. Intriguingly, p75C259A, a variant unresponsive to neurotrophins but still competent for RhoA signaling induced by myelin-derived ligands, did not afford any neuroprotection. P301S neurons expressing p75{triangleup}DD or p75KKEA, but not p75C259A, showed reduced phospho-Tau and ROCK and GSK3{beta} activity, the two main kinases responsible for Tau phosphorylation. In line with this, treatment with myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) enhanced Tau phosphorylation and ROCK activity in P301S neurons expressing wild type p75NTR or p75C259A, but not p75{triangleup}DD or p75KKEA. Together, these results indicate that p75NTR contributes to AD tauopathy by enhancing the activity of the RhoA-ROCK pathway.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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The Charcot-Marie-Tooth Neuropathy (CMTX3) Complex Structural Variation Causes Differential SOX3 Spatiotemporal Expression
Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) neuropathy is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of diseases characterised by the length dependent axonal degeneration of peripheral nerves. We previously mapped a rare form of X-linked CMT, CMTX3, to a 5.7-Mb interval on chromosome Xq26.3-q27.1 and excluded the coding region of all known genes in the linkage interval for mutations. Whole genome sequencing subsequently identified a 78-kb region of chromosome 8q24.3, that had been duplicated and inserted into the CMTX3 locus between the genes HAPSTR2 and SOX3. The 78-kb insertion, which contains a partial transcript of ARHGAP39, fully segregated in families with CMTX3 and was absent in neurologically normal controls. To retain the CMTX3 insertion and investigate its consequences in appropriate neuronal tissue, we generated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) from CMTX3 fibroblasts. Using bulk RNA sequencing of patient-derived spinal motor neurons, ARHGAP39 was deemed non-pathogenic by excluding both the formation of novel fusion transcripts and dosage effects from the partial duplication. Subsequent NanoString expression analyses of candidate genes within the CMTX3 locus, across different stages of neuronal differentiation, identified spatiotemporal dysregulation of SOX3. NanoString showed reduced SOX3 expression in patient iPSC. RNA sequencing detected SOX3 downregulation in CMTX3 neuroepithelial progenitor cells, which was further confirmed by quantitative proteomics. Given the early onset and relatively rapid progression of CMTX3, these data prioritise SOX3 as a leading candidate gene, consistent with its role as one of the earliest transcription factors expressed in the developing nervous system and a key regulator of neuronal fate.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Perceptual performance and V1 neural activity are exquisitely sensitive to small changes in thalamocortical gain
Neuromodulators powerfully shape circuit function via mechanisms that largely remain to be determined. As arguably the best-described cortical model system in neuroscience, the primary visual cortex (V1) of the rhesus monkey is an ideal model system to ask and answer these questions. There has been particular focus on acetylcholine actions in V1, where there is strong innervation from the basal forebrain and well described local cholinergic anatomy in which {beta}2 subunit-containing (high affinity) nicotinic receptors are strongly expressed on thalamocortical axons arriving in layer 4C. Activating these receptors strongly enhances local gain, but it is not known to what extent these effects propagate to other V1 layers. To determine the magnitude and direction (enhancement vs suppression) of gain effects outside layer 4C following gain injection via the nicotinic receptors on thalamic axons, we recorded across the cortical depth in V1 while selectively delivering nicotine locally to layer 4C. We observed widespread and heterogeneous gain effects across layers that could not be explained by visual stimulus conditions, but were well predicted by an adaptation of a normalization model. These gain changes were not compensated by the circuit, and thus were evident during performance of a perceptual task.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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The relationship between changes in psychosocial domains with a virtual salsa class and personality, perceived performance and enjoyment
Background: Virtual dance classes have potential as an accessible rehabilitation intervention to improve physical and psychosocial well-being. Understanding the psychosocial effects of virtual dance and the influence of individual factors will facilitate implementation. This study investigated 1) pre-post changes in psychosocial domains with a single virtual salsa class; 2) effect sizes relative to an in-person class, and 3) individual factors, including personality, perceived performance, and enjoyment. Methods: Participants (n=33), 18-30 years old, attended one virtual salsa class. Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PAS, NAS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Inclusion in Community and Self-Scale (ICS) were administered before and after class. Participants completed the Big Five Inventory-10 (BFI-10) before and rated their performance and enjoyment (ordinal scale 1-5) after class. Effect sizes were calculated, and pre-post changes were analyzed with Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Relationships between pre-post changes and individual factors were analyzed with Spearman rank correlations. Results: PAS, NAS, PSS, and ICS significantly improved. Effect sizes were larger than those for an in-person salsa class for PAS, NAS, PSS, but not ICS. Change in NAS was negatively correlated with neuroticism (rs = -0.46, p=0.0088). Conclusions: A single virtual salsa class is associated with improvements in mood, stress, and social connection, similar to in person classes. Change in negative affect with dance may be influenced by the neuroticism personality trait. Future research should include a randomized controlled trial on the psychosocial benefits of virtual salsa classes, while accounting for the potential influence of individual factors identified in this study.in bioRxiv: Neuroscience on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Neural basis of attentional deployment in affective forecasting of hypothetical medication outcome trade-offs
AbstractPredicting the emotional impact of future events, known as affective forecasting, is central to decision-making. When outcomes are emotionally bivalent (i.e. contain mixed-valence elements), such as medical treatments involving both remission and adverse side effects, forecasts are often inaccurate. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the neural basis of affective forecasting in medical treatment trade-offs and how it is shaped by attentional deployment, an emotion regulation strategy that directs attention toward or away from aspects of an outcome. Participants imagined undergoing a treatment providing pain relief but causing side effects, and forecasted their emotions while focusing on remission or side effects. Univariate analyses showed that attentional deployment modulated neural activity during forecasting: the side-effect-focus condition recruited the insula and frontal pole, whereas remission-focus trials recruited the superior frontal gyrus and frontal pole. Multivariate analyses revealed a broad and distributed network that differentially represented positive and negative forecasting. We conclude that attentional deployment modulates which brain regions are recruited for affective forecasting. We identify the frontal pole as a hub for sustaining emotion-regulation goals during prospective thought. Together, these findings advance models of affective forecasting and highlight potential mechanisms, such as attentional deployment, which may bias emotional predictions in medical trade-off scenarios.in Cerebral Cortex on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Longitudinal changes in T1w/T2w estimates of cortical myelin with age and pubertal timing
AbstractPuberty may regulate changes in sensitive period plasticity during adolescence. Experience-dependent myelination is a mechanism that may underlie such changes in plasticity. Intracortical myelin can be indirectly indexed by the ratio of T1-weighted to T2-weighted MRI images (T1w/T2w). While age-related T1w/T2w changes have been documented, less is known about the contributions of pubertal timing (being earlier/later relative to peers). Using Bayesian hierarchical generalized additive models with longitudinal data from 9- to 18-year-olds in the Human Connectome Project in Development, we examined how age and pubertal timing relate to T1w/T2w. Results confirmed that age-related change is patterned along the sensorimotor-association axis, though longitudinal effects were smaller than prior cross-sectional estimates. Pubertal timing accounted for up to 1.8% of variance in T1w/T2w across parcels, with negligible effects in most parcels. Modest sex- and regionally specific effects were identified: Early pubertal timing was linked to greater T1w/T2w in sensorimotor regions and lower T1w/T2w in association areas (especially dorsolateral and frontopolar cortices) but only in females. In contrast, late puberty was linked to higher T1w/T2w in association areas in both sexes and reduced T1w/T2w in several mid-ranking parcels. Future work should replicate these effects and investigate associations with cognitive and psychosocial development.in Cerebral Cortex on 2026-02-23 00:00:00 UTC.
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Reflections on the development and implementation of a university student health and well-being online survey: the BOOST-Well project [version 2; peer review: 1 approved with reservations, 1 not approved]
Background First year university students may be at risk of poor health behaviours and outcomes. Unfortunately, online surveys assessing multiple aspects of the health and well-being of university students have poor response rates, meaning the representative of such data may be questionable. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to document the development and implementation of an online health and well-being survey of medical and allied health students with substantially higher response rates than reported in the literature. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was developed following recommendations to maximise the participation and response rates. All new students (defined as commencing a degree in May or September 2024) from undergraduate medical and postgraduate allied health programs from one Australian university were requested to participate. The survey included 136 items, most of which were validated questionnaires commonly used in national surveys. Participants were requested to complete the survey on their own device during scheduled class time within the first two weeks of their degree. Results Of 273 eligible students, 217 (79.5%) accessed the survey, with 201 (73.6%) completing it at least partially and 63.7% completing it fully. Median completion time was 14.4 (IQR: 12.3–16.8) minutes, and item-level response rates were high across disciplines. Differences in completion rates and survey duration were observed across disciplines, with occupational therapy students taking the longest to complete the survey. Conclusions The BOOST-Well survey achieved markedly higher response rates than comparable studies, with this likely reflecting student-informed survey design, concise format, strategic timing, and evidence-based recruitment and implementation strategies.in F1000Research on 2026-02-22 14:28:29 UTC.
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Author Correction: Single-cell multi-omic detection of DNA methylation and histone modifications reconstructs the dynamics of epigenomic maintenance
Nature Methods, Published online: 21 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41592-026-03031-y
Author Correction: Single-cell multi-omic detection of DNA methylation and histone modifications reconstructs the dynamics of epigenomic maintenancein Nature Methods on 2026-02-21 00:00:00 UTC.
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Cell Analyser in Batch for Neurite (CABaNe), an Automated, High-Throughput ImageJ Macro for Cell and Neurite Analysis
Measuring neurite length is crucial in neurobiology because it provides valuable insights into the growth, development, and function of neurons. In particular, neurite length is fundamental to study neuronal development and differentiation, neurons responses to drugs, neurodegenerative diseases and neuronal plasticity. Surprisingly, there is currently a lack of tools for high-throughput neurite analysis. In this article, we present CABaNe, as an open-source, high-throughput, rule-based ImageJ macro for cell analysis, including their neurite length. This macro possesses a graphical interface, metadata production, as well as verification means before and after analysis. Rule-based and machine learning-based programming have been tested for cell identification. Cell tested were N2A, a mouse neuroblastoma cell line. After testing, we had better precision and adaptability using rule-based cell identification. We challenged CABaNe with currently used techniques, which are manual or assisted. When tested on a small sample, CABaNe analyzed the dataset of interest much faster than manual measurements, while maintaining or increasing precision. When tested on a large dataset, comparing different conditions, we successfully highlighted differences between conditions, in a fully automated manner. Therefore, CABaNe is viable as a high-throughput option for cell analysis, for neurite length and other parameters. It is a base of code that can be used for other analysis or to train deep learning models. In the future, we expect this tool to be widely used in both basic and applied neurobiology research.
in eNeuro on 2026-02-20 17:30:27 UTC.
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Hierarchical Distribution of Reward Representation in the Cortical and Hippocampal Regions
Dopaminergic inputs to various brain regions, such as the striatum, orbitofrontal cortex, and amygdala, play a critical role in processing reward acquisition information. While reward-related activity is also observed more broadly in motor, parietal, and hippocampal regions, the functional significance and potential hierarchy of reward-related representation across these latter areas remain unclear. We investigated this by quantifying neural predictive power using machine learning. Specifically, neural activity was examined in six brain areas—the primary and secondary motor cortices (M1 and M2), posterior parietal cortex (PPC), dorsal and ventral CA1 (dCA1 and vCA1), and lateral entorhinal cortex (LEC)—in male rats performing a self-initiated left–right choice task. Machine learning models classified rewarded versus nonrewarded trials based on neuronal firing properties significantly above chance for all regions. Crucially, classification revealed a clear performance gradient, forming a functional hierarchy: models using hippocampal data (dCA1 and vCA1) performed best, followed by LEC and PPC, with M1 and M2 performing lowest. Furthermore, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis revealed a qualitative transformation in coding strategies along this hierarchy: while neocortical regions relied on subtle, distributed high-order statistics, the hippocampus utilized precise, categorical representations. At this apex, distinct strategies emerged: dCA1 primarily utilized temporally precise post-reward spike distributions with transient increase of response, while vCA1 integrated both spike timing and firing rate changes with suppressive response. These findings provide quantitative evidence for a functionally hierarchical and qualitative evolution of reward-related representation, highlighting distinct roles of dCA1 and vCA1 in encoding reward-related events to potentially guide future behavior.
in eNeuro on 2026-02-20 17:30:27 UTC.
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CA-CAE: A deep learning-based multi-omics model for pan-cancer subtype classification and prognosis prediction
by Shumei Zhang, Yicheng Lu, Peixian Li, Junxuan Wu, Guohua Wang, Wen Yang
In cancer research, identifying cancer subtypes and evaluating prognosis are crucial for personalized diagnosis and treatment of cancer. With the advancement of high-throughput sequencing technologies, multi-omics data has become essential for cancer classification and prognostic analysis. By integrating deep learning techniques, it is possible to more accurately identify cancer subtypes, providing a robust basis for personalized treatment of cancer patients. In this study, we propose a convolutional autoencoder prognostic model incorporating a channel attention mechanism (CA-CAE). The model utilizes multi-omics data to predict survival-associated cancer subtypes and identify prognostic genes. We applied CA-CAE to multiple cancer types, successfully identifying subtypes in 15 distinct cancer types and revealing significant survival differences among these subtypes. Moreover, compared to traditional statistical methods and other deep learning approaches, CA-CAE demonstrated superior performance in predicting survival outcomes.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Attractor dynamics of a whole-cortex network model predicts emergence and structure of fMRI co-activation patterns in the mouse brain
by Diego Fasoli, Ludovico Coletta, Daniel Gutierrez-Barragan, Silvia Gini, Alessandro Gozzi, Stefano Panzeri
Resting state fMRI signals in mammals exhibit rich dynamics on a fast, frame-by-frame timescale of seconds, including the robust emergence of recurring fMRI co-activation patterns (CAPs). To understand how such dynamics emerges from the underlying anatomical cortico-cortical connectivity, we developed a whole-cortex model of resting-state fMRI signals in the mouse. Our model implemented neural input-output nonlinearities and excitatory-inhibitory interactions within cortical regions, as well as directed anatomical connectivity between regions inferred from the Allen mouse brain atlas. We found that, even if the model parameters were fitted to explain static properties of fMRI signals on the timescale of minutes, the model generated rich frame-by-frame attractor dynamics, with multiple stationary and oscillatory attractors. Guided by these theoretical predictions, we found that empirical mouse fMRI time series exhibited analogous signatures of attractor dynamics, and that model attractors recapitulated the topographical organization of empirical fMRI CAPs. The model established key relationships between attractor dynamics, CAPs and features of the directed cortico-cortical intra- and inter-hemispheric anatomical connectivity. Specifically, we found that neglecting fiber directionality severely affected the number of model’s attractors and their ability to explain CAPs. Furthermore, modifying inter-hemispheric anatomical connectivity strength by decreasing or increasing it from the value of real mouse anatomical data, resulted in fewer attractors generated by cortico-cortical interactions and reduced non-homotopic features of the attractors generated by the model, which were important for better predicting empirical CAPs. These results offer novel theoretical insight into the dynamic organization of resting state fMRI in the mouse brain and suggest that the frame-wise BOLD activity captured by CAPs reflects an emerging property of cortical dynamics resulting from directed cortico-cortical interactions.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Degradation graphs reveal hidden proteolytic activity in peptidomes
by Erik Hartman, Johan Malmström, Jonas Wallin
Protein degradation is a regulated process that reshapes the proteome and generates bioactive peptides. Peptidomics and degradomics enables large-scale measurement of these peptides, yet most data analyses approaches treat peptides as isolated endpoints rather than intermediates produced by sequential cleavage. Here, we introduce degradation graphs, a probabilistic framework that represents proteolysis as a directed acyclic network of cleavage events with explicit absorption. From single-snapshot peptidomes, we infer graph weights by gradient descent or linear-flow optimization, quantify flows through branches and bottlenecks, and correct a core bias in conventional quantification. Across three biological datasets, failure to model downstream trimming leads to 3–4-fold underestimation of upstream proteolytic activity. Moreover, degradation graphs provide graph-structured features that enable machine learning models to capture protease-specific signatures from both graph topology and sequence context. Taken together, these findings establish explicit degradation modeling as a practical approach to mechanistic and interpretable peptidomics, bridging the fields of degradomics and peptidomics.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Carba-NAD binding activates SIR2 by reshaping conformational plasticity and rewiring long-range allosteric networks
by Bao-Dan Zhang, De-Rui Zhao, Meng-Ting Liu, Li-Quan Yang, Peng Sang
Allosteric regulation enables proteins to couple local structural changes to distal functional outcomes, yet the underlying mechanisms often remain difficult to fully decipher. Using yeast SIR2, an NAD ⁺ -dependent deacetylase, as a model system, this study systematically elucidates how cofactor binding reshapes its conformational dynamics and internal communication network. Through multiple 3-μs molecular dynamics simulations combined with a graph-based deep learning model (Neural Relational Inference), we identify a highly reproducible characteristic response across independent replicates: the β1–α2 loop near the active site undergoes pronounced rigidification, whereas several distal structural modules exhibit concomitant increases in flexibility, together forming a “core-locking with peripheral-release” dynamic mode. Further signal-pathway analysis reveals that the local and distal conformational changes are not independent; instead, they are interconnected through newly identified “relay-type” residues such as Pro214 and Thr224. These residues act as bridges, converting the previously β1–α2-centered centralized network into a relay-style network coordinated by multiple nodes, thereby establishing a continuous and directionally coherent allosteric cascade. Beyond mechanistic insights, we also identify a distal cavity spatially overlapping with key relay residues, whose physicochemical properties meet the criteria of druggable pockets. This structural convergence suggests that future small-molecule allosteric activators may exploit this intrinsic communication pathway to mimic or amplify the regulatory effects of the cofactor NAD ⁺. Given that NAD⁺ levels decline with aging, this cavity provides a rational target for designing longevity-promoting allosteric activators.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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A topological map of the genetic components of grapevine—Admixture meets SOMmelier machine learning
by Anush Baloyan, Tomas Konecny, Emma Hovhannisyan, Nate Zadirako, Maria Nikoghosyan, Hans Binder
Inferring the genetic structure at the subpopulation level is crucial for understanding the demographic histories that shape genetic diversity. Among the most widely used approaches are methods based on admixture and structure modeling—named after the respective software tools—which have become standard due to their intuitive, interpretable outputs. In this study, we address a key methodological question: how does the traditional admixture-based decomposition of genetic components in multilocus population data relate to clustering approaches that leverage machine learning, specifically Self-Organizing Maps (SOMs)? We implemented this approach through our custom SOM-based tool, SOMmelier, which enables the portrayal of genetic structure by identifying modules of co-mutated SNPs and arranging them in a topology-aware genetic landscape. Topology-awareness refers to the organization of genetic modules in a two-dimensional map, where their spatial proximity reflects mutual similarity. We applied Admixture and SOMmelier to investigate the population genetics of European grapevine. Based on prior literature, we considered up to six genetic components, which formed a genetic landscape that closely mirrors the geographic expanse of the classical Mediterranean world—from Western Asia through the Caucasus to Western Europe. The resulting topology reflects the dynamic spatial and temporal nature of grapevine domestication and diffusion. We demonstrate that SOMmelier can recover the genetic components identified by Admixture solely through statistical clustering. By integrating the topological structure of SNP co-variation, it offers perspectives on population structure, evolutionary history, and trait associations in grapevine—and has applicability to other species and systems in population genetics.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Coevolutionary dynamics of cooperation, risk, and cost in collective risk games
by Lichen Wang, Shijia Hua, Yuyuan Liu, Liang Zhang, Linjie Liu, Attila Szolnoki
Addressing both natural and societal challenges requires collective cooperation. Studies on collective-risk social dilemmas have shown that individual decisions are influenced by the perceived risk of collective failure. However, existing feedback-evolving game models often focus on a single feedback mechanism, such as the coupling between cooperation and risk or between cooperation and cost. In many real-world scenarios, however, the level of cooperation, the cost of cooperating, and the collective risk are dynamically interlinked. Here, we present an evolutionary game model that considers the interplay of these three variables. Our analysis shows that the worst-case scenario, characterized by full defection, maximum risk, and the highest cost of cooperation, remains a stable evolutionary attractor. Nevertheless, cooperation can emerge and persist because the system also supports stable equilibria with non-zero cooperation. The system exhibits multistability, meaning that different initial conditions lead to either sustained cooperation or a tragedy of the commons. These findings highlight that initial levels of cooperation, cost, and risk collectively determine whether a population can avert a tragic outcome.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Intercellular forces driving stratification in a two-layer corneal epithelium: Insight from a Voronoi cell-based simulation model
by Neda Khodabakhsh Joniani, David Martinez-Martin, Peter S. Kim, J. Guy Lyons
The cornea is a self-renewing, multilayered tissue maintained with remarkable precision. Its outermost layer, the corneal epithelium, consists of five to seven stratified cell layers, sustained by two coordinated processes: the centripetal migration of transit amplifying cells (TACs) from peripheral limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs), and delamination (vertical movement) of cells between layers. Despite this well-organized renewal, the mechanisms governing epithelial stratification remain largely unknown. In this study, we present a two-dimensional Voronoi cell-based model that captures the dynamics of epithelial stratification. Our model incorporates two distinct epithelial layers—the basal and the suprabasal layers—and accounts for key cellular processes. These processes are mediated by mechanical interactions such as cell-substrate adhesion, as well as horizontal and vertical intercellular forces. Our simulations show that cell delamination, which drives stratification, is strongly linked to TAC proliferation. In contrast, LESC division remains largely unchanged, suggesting that TACs buffer LESC activity, consistent with the slow-cycling nature of stem cells. This reveals that processes weakening the cell-to-substrate interaction will enhance the turnover of epithelial cells without the need for external growth factor induction, which is a notable finding. Interestingly, while increased shedding promotes division and delamination, excessive shedding leads to mechanical compensation through cell stretching in the upper layers. This mechanical response provides a simple, plausible explanation for the presence of enlarged cells in the superficial epithelial layers, while not excluding the potential contributions of other mechanisms. Our model reveals a direct link between the shedding rate and the centripetal velocity of clonal growth, predicting that increased surface cell loss accelerates cell movement-a response similar to wound healing, where cells rapidly migrate to restore the damaged area. These results highlight how cell size, migration, and turnover are tightly coupled, and offer deeper insights into how physical forces work together to maintain and rapidly restore epithelial integrity. Although the real cornea contains five to seven layers, this two-layer framework focuses on the key mechanical principles of stratification and can be viewed as a foundational step toward more comprehensive multilayer modelling.in PLoS Computational Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Categorical identity signatures can reduce host error rates during brood parasitism
by Tanmay Dixit, Ming Liu, Jana M. Riederer, Jonah M. Walker, Cameron J. Blair, Jess Lund, Collins Moya, Claire N. Spottiswoode
Biological recognition is often modeled as involving discrimination of continuously-distributed (and continuously-perceived) traits according to decision thresholds. However, traits such as animal signals can be categorically distributed. Here, we test how such categorical distributions may influence fundamental trade-offs in signal recognition, using a brood parasite–host system involving identity recognition. The African cuckoo finch Anomalospiza imberbis parasitizes several host species, each of which has evolved inter-individual variation in egg appearance (“egg signatures”) that facilitates recognition and rejection of mimetic cuckoo finch eggs. We demonstrate that egg signature traits in one host species, the zitting cisticola Cisticola juncidis, are categorically distributed. Field experiments reveal that zitting cisticolas make fewer Type II errors (accepting parasitic eggs) and Type I errors (rejecting their own eggs) than hosts exhibiting continuous variation. This challenges the long-standing expectation from classification models, statistics, and signal detection theory that there must be a strict trade-off between these two error types. Individual-based simulations clarify mechanisms by which categorical variation can generate low error rates, especially when combined with “category-based rejection,” whereby hosts only reject eggs of different categories to their own. Our findings show that the categorical distribution and category-based perception of trait variation can shape error trade-offs and coevolutionary dynamics, which should inform studies on other mimicry or self/non-self recognition systems, including immune recognition. They also highlight the importance of quantifying trait distributions and how they are perceived, when understanding coevolution between deceivers and those they deceive.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility profiling unveils new regulators of heat hormesis in Caenorhabditis elegans
by Hsin-Yun Chang, Sarah E. McMurry, Sicheng Ma, Charles L. Heinke, Christian A. Mansour, Sophia Marie T. Schwab, Charles G. Danko, Siu Sylvia Lee
Heat hormesis describes the beneficial adaptations resulting from transient exposure to mild heat stress, which enhances stress resilience and promotes healthy aging. While heat hormesis is widely observed, much remains to be learned about its molecular basis. This study bridges a critical knowledge gap through a comprehensive multiomic analysis, providing key insights into the transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility landscapes throughout a heat hormesis regimen in Caenorhabditis elegans. We uncover highly dynamic, dose-dependent molecular responses to heat stress and reveal that while most initial molecular changes induced by mild stress revert to baseline, key differences emerge in response to subsequent heat shock challenge that likely contribute to physiological benefits. We further demonstrate that heat hormesis extends life span specifically in wild-type animals, but not in germline-less mutants, likely due to transient disruption of germline activities during mild heat exposure, which appears sufficient to trigger pro-longevity mechanisms. This finding points to tissue-specific responses in mediating the physiological outcomes of heat hormesis. Importantly, we identify several highly conserved regulators of heat hormesis that likely orchestrate gene expression to enhance stress resilience. Among these regulators, some (MARS-1/MARS1, SNPC-4/SNAPc, FOS-1/c-Fos) are broadly required for heat-hormesis-induced benefits, whereas others (ELT-2/GATA4, DPY-27/SMC4) are uniquely important in specific genetic backgrounds. This study advances our understanding of stress resilience mechanisms, points to multiple new avenues for future investigations, and provides a molecular framework for promoting healthy aging through strategic mid-life stress management.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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BehaveAI enables rapid detection and classification of objects and behavior from motion
by Jolyon Troscianko, Thomas A. O’Shea-Wheller, James A. M. Galloway, Kevin J. Gaston
Here we introduce BehaveAI, a biologically inspired video analysis framework that integrates static and motion information through a novel color-from-motion encoding strategy. This method translates object movement—direction, speed, and acceleration—into color gradients, enabling both human annotators and pre-trained convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to infer motion patterns while retaining high-resolution spatial detail. Using a range of case studies, we demonstrate how the increased salience of motion information allows for the robust detection of objects that are challenging or impossible to identify reliably from static frames alone, particularly in complex natural scenes. We further demonstrate the reliable classification of different behaviors in animals and single-celled organisms. Additionally, the framework supports flexible hierarchical model structures that can separate the tasks of detection and classification for optimal efficiency, and provide individual tracking data that specifies what is present where and what it is doing in each frame. The framework makes use of the latest deep learning architecture (YOLO11), combined with a semi-supervised annotation workflow. Together with salient motion information, these features can dramatically reduce the effort required for dataset annotation such that reliable models can often be made within an hour. Moreover, smaller annotation datasets mean that model training can be achieved on conventional computers without dedicated hardware, thereby improving accessibility. The motion encoding approach is also computationally lightweight, and can run in real-time on low-end edge devices such as a Raspberry Pi. We release the framework as a free, open source, and user-friendly package.in PLoS Biology on 2026-02-20 14:00:00 UTC.
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Building Entrepreneurship Ecosystem: A Systematic Review [version 3; peer review: 2 approved with reservations, 4 not approved]
The primary objective of this study is to advance research by providing a conceptual framework for entrepreneurship ecosystem building and the growth of entrepreneurship intention among students in higher education institutions. The study conducted a comprehensive literature review, selecting peer-reviewed articles on entrepreneurial ecosystem building and entrepreneurial intention growth. A systematic review (SR) method was used to achieve he stated objectives. The PRISMA protocol, searching approach, inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data analysis technique were successfully applied. The research finding shows that developing a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem within universities can stimulate entrepreneurial activities, enhance self-efficacy, and cultivate an entrepreneurial culture. The findings also underscore the importance of creating environments that not only provide knowledge and skills but also practical experiences and support networks essential for nurturing future entrepreneurs. Finally, both empirical and practical implication was identified and a future research direction was suggested for future researchers.in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 12:41:01 UTC.
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Numerical evaluation of the coupling between several directional coupler designs [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background Power division, switching, modulation, and wavelength multiplexing in integrated photonics are made possible via directional couplers. Nonlinear effects, material characteristics, and waveguide geometry all affect how they couple. Because of their microstructure cladding, photonic crystal fibre (PCF) couplers provide stronger field confinement and possibly better coupling than traditional two-core waveguides. A numerical comparison of linear and nonlinear coupling in waveguide and PCF couplers is presented in this paper. Methods Coupled Mode Theory was used to simulate the neighboring-core interaction, and COMSOL’s FEM was used to get even and odd supermodes. For both types of couplers, effective indices, coupling coefficients, and coupling lengths were retrieved. Evaluation of nonlinear behaviour, such as power-dependent decoupling and critical power thresholds, was made possible by incorporating self-phase modulation into the CMT equations. Results The PCF coupler provided substantially stronger coupling than the standard waveguide. At a wavelength of 1.55 μm, the PCF attained a coupling length of 1.107 μm and a coupling coefficient of 0.001418 μm−1, compared to 3.8751 μm and 0.000405 μm−1 for the waveguide. Improved field localization and intercore interaction cause increased coupling in PCFs. Nonlinear calculations revealed that the PCF requires less critical power (29 W/m) to accomplish decoupling than the waveguide (83 W/m). Conclusion Both architectures showed reduced intercore transfer at high powers due to nonlinear phase mismatch, consistent with Jensen’s hypothesis. PCF couplers outperform the traditional waveguides in both linear and nonlinear regimes because they have shorter coupling lengths, stronger coupling coefficients, and lower switching thresholds. The findings confirm the potential of nonlinear PCF couplers for use in high-speed optical communication, switching, modulation, multiplexing, and wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) applications, supporting the development of next-generation compact and tunable photonic devicesin F1000Research on 2026-02-20 12:15:09 UTC.
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Exploring the use of phytotherapy in benign prostatic hyperplasia [BPH]: a systematic review [version 2; peer review: 2 approved with reservations]
Background Benign prostatic hyperplasia [BPH] is a prevalent condition among aging men, characterized by prostate gland enlargement leading to lower urinary tract symptoms [LUTS]. Conventional treatments like alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, though effective, often result in adverse effects. This has spurred interest in phytotherapy, leveraging plant-derived compounds to mitigate BPH symptoms due to their safety, cost-effectiveness, and patient preference. Method A literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for articles published up to June 2024 using PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies involve preclinical models of BPH, interventions specifically targeting plant or plant-based therapy, quantitative outcomes related to BPH treatment and ameliorations, and studies with clear methodology and reporting of the administration and plant-based products. Results The review highlighted 84 studies involving diverse plants and bioactive compounds. Prominent examples include Serenoa repens [saw palmetto], Urtica dioica [nettle root], Cucurbita pepo [pumpkin seed], and Pygeum africanum [African cherry]. These plants exhibit mechanisms such as 5α-reductase inhibition, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of oxidative stress. Clinical and preclinical findings demonstrate improved urinary flow, reduced prostate volume, and alleviated LUTS. However, variability in methodologies, extract preparations, and dosages poses challenges to standardization. Conclusion Phytotherapy holds significant potential in BPH management, offering symptom relief with minimal side effects. While promising, further robust clinical trials are essential to validate efficacy, establish standardized protocols, and ensure integration into mainstream therapeutic frameworks.in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 12:10:26 UTC.
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S-Pseudo Bounded Radical of Submodules [version 2; peer review: 1 approved, 1 not approved]
In this paper, every module M is unitary and every ring F is commutative with identity. Some properties of S-Pseudo bounded radical are studied. A proper submodule ℵ of an F − module M is said to be S-pseudo bounded submodule if there exists , φ ∈ End ( M ) , x ∈ M such that φ ( x ) ∈ ℵ implies ann F ( ℵ ) = ann F φ ( x ) making use of endomorphism map over an F − module . The characterization of S-Pseudo bounded radical for finitely generated and multiplication module is given. It must be emphasized that scalar module and prime submodule played a major role in achieving new results and to study the relationship between the radical of submodules and the radical of S-pseudo bounded submodule. In our work many properties and corollaries will be proved which explain the idea of the radical of S-pseudo bounded submodule and a new class of F − module as well as F − submodule provided with some examples that illustrate and clarify in a nice way this type of module (submodule). We used the symbol End ( M ) which means the set of all endomorphism maps of F − module M and S − rad M PS . B . ( ℵ ) refers to the intersection of all S-pseudo bounded submodules of M containing ℵ .in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 12:05:04 UTC.
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Critical phase transition in bee movement dynamics can be modeled using a two-dimensional cellular automaton
Author(s): Ivan Shpurov and Tom Froese
The collective behavior of numerous animal species, including insects, exhibits scale-free behavior indicative of the critical (second-order) phase transition. Previous research uncovered such phenomena in the behavior of honeybees, most notably the long-range correlations in space and time. Further…
[Phys. Rev. E 113, 024405] Published Fri Feb 20, 2026
in Physical Review E: Biological physics on 2026-02-20 10:00:00 UTC.
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PREVALENCE OF URINARY INCONTINENCE AMONG WOMEN WITH PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE IN AFRICA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background Urinary incontinence (UI) is a distressing complication of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) that contributes to physical discomfort, stigma, and reduced quality of life. While global estimates of UI in women exist, data specific to African women with POP remain fragmented, limiting clinical and policy interventions. Objective This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of urinary incontinence among African women with pelvic organ prolapse. Methods Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Google Scholar, HINARI, and AJOL for observational studies published between 2010 and May 2025. Eligible studies reported UI prevalence among women with clinically or surgically diagnosed POP in African health facilities. Data were extracted using a pre-designed form, and study quality was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. Random-effects models with logit transformation were applied to estimate pooled prevalence. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2, Tau2, and Cochran’s Q. Publication bias was evaluated using Egger’s regression, Kendall’s Tau, and Fail-Safe N. Results Twelve studies involving 11,149 women from East, West, Southern, and Central Africa were included. the pooled prevalence of urinary incontinence among women with pelvic organ prolapse across included studies was 33.1% (95% CI: 29.9–36.2%) with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 78.5%). Regional subgroup analysis showed higher prevalence in East Africa. No significant publication bias was detected. the pooled prevalence of urinary incontinence among women with pelvic organ prolapse across included studies was 33.1% (95% CI: 29.9–36.2%) Conclusions Approximately one in three African women presenting with POP also experience UI, underscoring a major but under-recognized burden. These findings highlight the need for routine UI screening in POP patients, integration of continence-sparing interventions, and greater policy focus on pelvic floor disorders in Africa. Although region-specific, this evidence contributes to the global understanding of POP-associated morbidities in resource-limited settings.in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 09:45:24 UTC.
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Kansei Engineering in the Evolving Service Sector: A Decade of Insights [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background Kansei Engineering (KE) has increasingly been applied beyond product design into service contexts, responding to the growing importance of emotional satisfaction, experiential quality, and human-centered service design. Despite its expanding use, a comprehensive understanding of how KE has evolved methodologically, theoretically, and contextually within service research remains limited. This study aims to critically review KE applications in services over the last decade to identify key trends, contributions, and research gaps. Methods A semi-systematic literature review was conducted using a two-phase Define–Refine protocol. A structured search was performed in the Scopus database covering publications from 2010 to 2023. The review followed PRISMA-guided screening and refinement procedures, resulting in the selection of 28 peer-reviewed journal articles. The selected studies were analyzed in terms of service context, methodological approaches, analytical tools, and theoretical integration. Results The findings reveal three main contributions. First, KE applications in services have shifted from traditional attribute–response models toward more data-driven and analytical Kansei approaches, including text mining, machine learning, and advanced statistical techniques. Second, KE has increasingly evolved as a complementary approach to service quality theories and service-dominant logic (SDL), strengthening its role in explaining emotional satisfaction and customer experience. Third, a clear differentiation in methodological robustness across service sectors is observed, with logistics, hospitality, transportation, and digital services showing varied levels of analytical maturity. Overall, the results demonstrate KE’s effectiveness in enhancing service quality, shaping emotional service experiences, and supporting customer satisfaction and loyalty, while also identifying underexplored areas, particularly related to artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Conclusions This study provides practical guidelines for integrating KE into service design and development to enhance emotional satisfaction and customer loyalty. By emphasizing customer Kansei, the review highlights KE’s potential to become more culturally sensitive and human-centered in service research. As an original contribution, this paper maps a decade-long trajectory of KE applications in services, positioning Kansei as central to service quality, innovation, and future research directions. The study is limited by its relatively narrow scope and reliance on unvalidated secondary data from a single database.in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 08:44:18 UTC.
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Nigella sativa-Based Extender Enhances Nilem (Osteochilus vittatus) Sperm Quality: Implications for Sustainable Aquaculture Practices [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Abstract* Background and Aim Preservation of Nilem (Osteochilus vittatus) spermatozoa is essential for sustainable aquaculture and the development of reproductive biotechnology. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a commercial Habbatussauda (Nigella sativa) extract as a natural antioxidant-based extender for maintaining sperm quality during 48 h cold storage at 4 °C. Materials and Methods Sperm samples were supplemented with commercial habbatussauda extract at concentrations of 1% (P1), 2% (P2), 3% (P3), and 4% (P4). Untreated sperm served as a negative control (P0), while sperm treated with 0.005% pure thymoquinone acted as a positive control (PTQ). All samples were stored at 4 °C for 48 hours with six replicates per treatment. Post-storage assessments included sperm viability, motility, and morphological abnormalities. Ultrastructural integrity of spermatozoa was qualitatively evaluated using Cryogenic Scanning Electron Microscopy (CRYO-SEM). Results The 2% habbatussauda extract (P2) yielded the highest sperm viability (84.80 ± 5.54%) and motility (73.25 ± 10.82%) and significantly reduced abnormality rates compared to the untreated control. CRYO-SEM analysis revealed severe ultrastructural damage in untreated spermatozoa, including plasma membrane disruption, head deformation, and flagellar breakage. In contrast, spermatozoa preserved with 1–2% extract, particularly P2, maintained intact plasma membranes, normal head morphology, and well-preserved flagella. Higher extract concentrations (3–4%) induced mild ultrastructural alterations. Conclusion A 2% commercial habbatussauda (Nigella sativa) extract effectively preserves Nilem sperm quality and ultrastructure during short-term cold storage, supporting its application as a natural antioxidant protectant in aquaculture.in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 08:37:59 UTC.
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On Ergodic and Inverse Shadowing Properties of Set-Valued Mapping [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
Background Shadowing-type properties play a fundamental role in the qualitative theory of dynamical systems, as they describe the relationship between approximate trajectories and exact orbits. In recent years, increasing attention has been given to extending these concepts to set-valued mappings, which naturally arise in various areas of mathematics and applied sciences. However, several shadowing-related notions for such mappings remain insufficiently explored. Methods In this work, we introduce precise definitions of the inverse shadowing property and the ergodic shadowing property for set-valued mappings. We analyse these properties within a general topological framework and examine their behaviour under the shift mapping on the inverse limit space. The relationships between inverse shadowing and ergodic shadowing are investigated using tools from topological dynamics. Results We establish connections between the inverse shadowing property and the ergodic shadowing property for set-valued mappings. In particular, we show how these properties interact when considered together with the shift mapping on the inverse limit space, and we identify conditions under which one property implies the other. Conclusions The results provide a clearer understanding of shadowing phenomena for set-valued mappings and highlight the role of inverse limit spaces in studying their dynamical behavior. This work contributes to the development of shadowing theory beyond single-valued dynamics and offers a foundation for further investigations in this direction.in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 08:33:29 UTC.
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Digital Marketing Strategies for Sustainable Food and Beverage Brands: A Bibliometric Systematic Literature Review [version 2; peer review: 3 approved]
Digital Marketing is one of the most important channels for promoting products and services in the modern age of marketing. It leverages popular tools, including social and web-based resources, to promote a brand in an online space. As consumers become aware of environmental degradation, researchers and academicians are immensely capturing consumers’ responses towards brands that minimize environmental impact. The present study is an attempt to provide a bibliometric account of research on Digital Marketing and Sustainable Food and Beverage Brands from the Scopus database. Based on 53 articles filtered through well-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria using B-SLR, the study analysed the conceptual structure of the work published between 2014-2024. This research uncovers emerging research streams and highlights the overlooked nuances of SDM in Food and Beverage brands. The review further provides strategic insights for firms that actively engage customers through digital media.in F1000Research on 2026-02-20 08:29:38 UTC.
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Robust input disentanglement through dendritic calcium–mediated action potentials
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Volume 123, Issue 8, February 2026.
SignificanceThe brain must continuously parse complex, overlapping streams of information to form meaningful representations. This task is traditionally attributed to networks of neurons. Here, we show through computational modeling that individual ...in PNAS on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Clemastine fumarate promotes myelin repair in a nonhuman primate model of demyelination characterized by absent spontaneous remyelination
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Volume 123, Issue 8, February 2026.
SignificanceMyelin repair is an unmet need for treating demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Clemastine fumarate has been validated as a promyelinating agent in rodents and in a first clinical trial for MS, but not in models ...in PNAS on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Insulin and leucokinin pathways coordinate adaptive salt appetite in Drosophila
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Volume 123, Issue 8, February 2026.
SignificanceMaintaining the right balance of salt is essential for survival, yet how the brain senses and regulates internal sodium levels remains poorly understood. Using fruit flies, we found a group of brain neurons that directly detect sodium and ...in PNAS on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Pheromone receptors for japonilure in Anomala corpulenta and Popillia japonica
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Volume 123, Issue 8, February 2026.
SignificanceScarab beetles are major pests of crops, forests, and turfgrass systems. Sex pheromones offer an environmentally friendly alternative for monitoring and controlling their populations. At a minimum, pheromone-based tools can guide the timing of ...in PNAS on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Correction for Nasca et al., Stress dynamically regulates behavior and glutamatergic gene expression in hippocampus by opening a window of epigenetic plasticity
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Volume 123, Issue 8, February 2026.
in PNAS on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Evolving synchronization of the Gulf Stream and Kuroshio-Oyashio Extension in a changing climate
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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KRASG12V/HLA-A*02:01–targeted chimeric antigen receptor T cells exhibit potent preclinical activity against solid tumors
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Selective attention to auditory and visual modalities converges onto noncholinergic basal forebrain neurons
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Covalent capture and genetic code expansion enables chemoproteomic profiling and functional characterization of lysine acetoacetylation
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Assessing the health risks of rice cadmium content standards in China
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Intratumoral Parvimonas micra promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via p-cresol–induced Treg differentiation
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Hemizygous loss of helicases promotes genomic instability and cancer development
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Electroluminescent perovskite QD–based neural networks for energy-efficient and accelerate multitasking learning
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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RAD51C-XRCC3 complex regulates FANCM-mediated R-loop resolution to safeguard genome integrity
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Complement C3 recognition by C3 convertases
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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Structures of the 26S proteasome in complex with the Hsp70 co-chaperone Bag1 reveal a mechanism for direct substrate transfer
Science Advances, Volume 12, Issue 8, February 2026.
in Science Advances on 2026-02-20 08:00:00 UTC.
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