Abstract: Biological invasions are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss globally, affecting the quality of ecosystem services, economy and public health. Research on the presence, distribution, impacts and introduction pathways of invasive alien species is essential for understanding and tackling the invasion process. Continental, coastal and marine aquatic ecosystems of the Yucatan Peninsula concentrate a high number of native species richness; however, the states that are in the region (Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo) also have the largest loss of natural capital at the national level. The presence of aquatic invasive species has contributed to this downward trend, mainly in protected areas. For this research, an analysis in the national biodiversity information system, the global biodiversity information facility, and the specialized scientific literature was carried out to determine the presence of aquatic invasive species within the protected areas of the Yucatan Peninsula and adjacent marine zone. The results indicate that there are 22 documented aquatic invasive species in 25 protected areas, which were classified into the following taxonomic groups: marine macroalgae (3 species), plants (2), inland and marine fish (11), crustaceans (2), mollusks (2) and hydrozoans (2). Fifteen of these species had a very high invasiveness score, six were high and one had a medium score. This research will be useful to strengthen regional public policy and guide decision makers on the management of aquatic invasive species, mainly for those that are seriously affecting aquatic ecosystems such as Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus and P. pardalis in freshwater protected areas and Pterois volitans in marine protected areas.

Abstract: Strength and conditioning literature examining neuromuscular physiology, bioenergetics, neuroendocrine factors, nutrition and metabolic factors, the use of ergogenic aids, physical and physiological responses and adaptations have clearly identified the benefits of participating in regular resistance training programs for athletic populations, especially as it relates to improving muscular strength (1). Beyond evidence-based research, models for resistance training program implementation are of considerable value to optimizing athletic performance. In fact, several have been provided that address general to specific characteristics of athleticism (i.e., strength endurance, muscular strength, and muscular power) over the decades (1-7, 133, 144). For instance, Stone et al. 2022 published a model known as the strength-endurance continuum that enhances dynamic correspondence (i.e., training specificity) in athletic populations by developing structural, metabolic, and neural capacities across a high-load, low repetition and low-load, high repetition range (2). Further models have been developed to enhance performance approaches (i.e., optimum performance training model) and outcomes (i.e., performance pyramid) even within specific populations such as youth (i.e., youth physical development model) (5-7). The ten, five, three (TFT) model for strength and conditioning professionals synthesizes currently available information and provides a framework for the effective implementation of resistance training approaches to suit the needs of athletes preparing for competition. The model includes three key components to consider when designing strength and conditioning programs, denoted by the acronym TFT (ten, five, three). Over recent years, the model has gained much support from teams, coaches, and athletes mainly due to the ability to streamline common knowledge within the field into an efficient and effective resistance training system. This paper explains the model itself and begins to provide recommendations for those interested in implementing TFT-based approaches, including a summary of points as a brief take-home guide to implementing TFT interventions. It is the author’s hope that this paper encourages other performance professionals to share their models to appreciate human ingenuity and advance our understanding of individualized approaches and systems towards physical development of the modern-day athlete.

Abstract: We recently developed a novel method, ReDeconv, for the normalization of scRNA-seq data and cell type deconvolution within bulk RNA-seq data. Our manuscript on ReDeconv, titled "Transcriptome Size Matters for Single-Cell RNA-seq Normalization and Bulk Deconvolution", was published in Nature Communication in February 2025. Through this work, we explored various factors that significantly influence scRNA-seq data normalization and bulk RNA-seq data deconvolution, and we proposed innovative solutions to tackle these issues. Recognizing the critical nature of these issues, we present a summary of our work in a Question & Answer (Q&A) format to underscore their importance.

Abstract: Behavioral lateralization in animals is a well-known phenomenon, however it has only rarely been studied in unicellular organisms. A groundbreaking study found lateralized movement in T-mazes in the formless plasmodia of the slime mold Physarum polycephalum. This phenomenon is assumed to be a natural consequence of the structure of the cytoskeleton, conserved through evolution among eukaryotes. To further investigate this, a comprehensive replication experiment was conducted on over 1,600 individual plasmodia. Two different clonal lines were tested to include genetic diversity. In consideration of the amoeboid organism’s diverse sensory capabilities, we controlled for the influence of light, artificial magnetic fields, the magnetic field of the Earth and vibration on movement. Our results show that no general lateralized behavior exists in the absence of stimuli in both clonal lines. However, we show that Physarum’s sensitivity to a wide range of stimuli can induce preferences in T-mazes, and furthermore that some stimuli, like strong magnetic fields and vibration, can induce true lateralization in previously nonlateralized plasmodia. The mechanisms behind this induced lateralization are still unclear. Therefore, previous findings showing lateralization are likely to have been influenced by unknown external stimuli.

Abstract: This study explores the potential of biogas production from organic waste generated at Dilla University, Southern Ethiopia, through anaerobic digestion. Five treatments were formulated using different ratios of cow dung, café leftovers, fruit peels, and human excreta to evaluate the effect of substrate composition on digestion efficiency and biogas generation. Experimental digesters were monitored over a 60-day period, and samples were analyzed for key physical and chemical parameters including total solids (MTS), total suspended solids (MTSS), ash content (MA), and fresh mass (MFS). Results showed that co-digestion significantly improved substrate degradation compared to mono-digestion. Treatment 2 (6% organic waste, 24% cow dung, 7.5% human excreta) demonstrated the highest reduction in solids, indicating efficient microbial activity and favorable biogas conversion. Estimated methane yields, derived from MTSS values, ranged from 0.244 to 0.470 liters, with Treatment 5 exhibiting the highest theoretical output despite lower digestion efficiency. The findings confirm that integrating food-based organic waste with manure and inoculum enhances biogas production and waste stabilization. The study recommends scaling up the optimized treatment in a pilot biogas plant for educational and community demonstration purposes, while incorporating direct gas monitoring tools in future research.

Abstract: Teleoperated robotic systems for robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery (RAMIS) have gained widespread clinical acceptance, making it the first domain in medical robotics to achieve global adoption. Despite its relative success, with limited market penetration, the reliance on human control in this approach ensures that the surgeon remains accountable for the clinical outcomes achieved by the robot. However, there is a growing demand for improved surgical performance, traceability, and safety that surpasses human capabilities, leading to a need for advancements in telesurgical robotics. Challenges such as technical complexity and financial constraints have hindered the full realization of telesurgical robotics' potential. While the da Vinci surgical system dominates the market, there are over 60 emerging RAMIS robot types, with 15 already obtaining regulatory clearance. This review article aims to bridge technological advancements with commercialization principles, particularly focusing on engineering components that can significantly enhance clinical practice. Current RAMIS robots primarily rely on their mechatronics capabilities, lacking data-driven assistance and intelligent human-machine collaboration. However, emerging RAMIS systems are integrating computer assistance, offering enhanced manipulation capabilities, refined sensors, advanced vision, task-level automation, smart safety features, and data integration. This heralds a new era in telesurgical robotics, infused with machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. Robust AI algorithms necessitate high-quality data acquired and shared in real time, enabling ML-based solutions. This review explores historical and future perspectives of emerging RAMIS technologies, considering their potential impact on the field. This article serves as a comprehensive review, examining the latest developments in robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery. It offers an in-depth exploration of key emerging technologies associated with next-generation systems.

Abstract: The fruits and vegetables (F&V) supply chain is beset by enormous challenges, especially in India, with post-harvest losses ranging from 30–40% and cold chain infrastructure inefficiencies, fragmented networks, and technology gaps that limit export opportunities and domestic food security. This research highlights major issues like lack of proper storage, transportation bottlenecks, farmer unawareness, and irregular quality standards as major contributors to wastage and economic loss. In response to these challenges, optimization practices such as cold chain logistics, Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory systems, IoT-based monitoring, and circular economy strategies are suggested. Also, cooperative supply chain structures, R&D investments, and consumer education are prioritized to make the system more transparent, sustainable, and resilient. Through the incorporation of demand forecasting, sophisticated inventory management, and public-private partnerships, this study emphasizes implementable solutions in mitigating PHL, enhancing supply chain effectiveness, and aligning India's F&V sector with international standards of quality.

Abstract: Beneficial interactions between nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria and legumes offer a solution to increase crop yield on Earth and potentially in future Martian colonies. In this study, we assessed the growth of the beta rhizobium Paraburkholderia phymatum in Martian simulant soil using Enhanced Mojave Mars Simulant 2 (MMS-2) that contains a high amount of iron (18.37 percent by weight) and aluminium (13.07 percent by weight). We observed that while P. phymatum wild-type’s growth was not affected by exposure to MMS-2, a mutant strain impaired in siderophore biosynthesis (ΔphmJK) grew less than P. phymatum wild-type on gradient plates prepared with increasing proportions of MMS-2 or aluminium concentration. This result suggests that the P. phymatum siderophore phymabactin alleviates aluminium-induced heavy metal stress. Using Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC MS), we showed that phymabactin can bind to aluminium more efficiently than iron. These results not only deepen our understanding of the behaviour of rhizobia in simulated extraterrestrial environments but also provide new insights into the potential use of P. phymatum for bioremediation and the multiple roles of the siderophore phymabactin.

Abstract: Symbolic Field Theory (SFT) proposes that irreducible mathematical structures—such as prime numbers—emerge not from randomness, but from compression minima in symbolic curvature fields. These fields are generated by projection functions ψ(x), which map integers into symbolic space, and a curvature operator κ(x), which quantifies local symbolic deviation. Structural emergence is hypothesized to occur at local minima ofκ(x), termed collapse zones. This paper empirically validates the predictive power of symbolic collapse geometry by applying a Monte Carlo enrichment framework to various projection-defined curvature fields. A hybrid projection function—combining modular residue and factor complexity—was tested over the first million natural numbers. Results show that collapse zones identified by κ(x) align with prime locations at a rate over three times higher than chance (enrichment ratio: 3.35; Z = 412.655). In contrast, entropy-weighted and factor-count projections yield collapse zones that repel primes, confirming that symbolic curvature fields can both attract and exclude irreducibles. We present a fully reproducible methodology for symbolic curvature analysis, including the definition of projection operators, a formal collapse detector, and statistical controls. Collapse zone prime frequencies are compared against randomized controls of equal size, demonstrating that observed enrichment is not a sampling artifact but an emergent property of symbolic alignment. The framework generalizes across domains and projections, enabling the detection of irreducible structure in symbolic systems ranging from mathematics to language. This work positions SFT as a foundational step toward a unified symbolic science of structural emergence.

Abstract: The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic extends far beyond the acute phase of infection, with millions experiencing persistent symptoms collectively termed "post-COVID syndrome" or "long COVID." This article presents a meta-meta-analysis synthesizing findings from multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses to explore the prevalence, nature, and implications of post-COVID symptoms. Fatigue, cognitive impairment, and dyspnea emerge as the most consistently reported symptoms, with prevalence rates varying widely across populations and settings. This analysis highlights the heterogeneity in research, the challenges in defining long COVID, and the urgent need for standardized approaches to address this ongoing public health challenge.

Abstract: The nature of cognition, intelligence, and consciousness has long been a topic of debate across multiple disciplines, often constrained by anthropocentric perspectives. This paper challenges these traditional views by proposing a unifying framework that considers cognition as a broad spectrum encompassing all living organisms, from bacteria to humans. By de-anthropomorphizing the concept of the mind, we explore cognition as an emergent process that manifests through diverse mechanisms, including neural and non-neural systems. We examine the continuum of sentience, intelligence, and awareness across various biological entities, emphasizing their role in adaptive behavior and decision-making. The study further discusses the implications of this framework for artificial intelligence, philosophy, and ethics, highlighting the necessity of precise conceptual definitions. Ultimately, this work aims to refine our understanding of intelligence and cognition, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and advancing the development of artificial cognitive systems.

Abstract: (1) Background: Doxorubicin (DOX) is a frontline chemotherapeutic, but its side effects from oxidative stress leading to cardiotoxicity, pose significant challenges to its clinical use. We recently discovered a novel family of proteolysis-resistant, cystine-dense, and cell-penetrating microproteins from Panax ginseng that we term ginsentides. Ginsentides, such as the 31-residue TP1 coordinate multiple biological systems to prevent vascular dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by internal and external stressors; (2) Methods: We assessed the protective effects of ginsentide TP1 on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity using both in vitro functional studies on H9c2 cardiomyocytes and in vivo animal models by zebrafish and ICR mouse models. In these models, we examined oxidative stress, apoptosis, intracellular calcium levels, mitochondrial function, inflammatory responses, and cardiac function; (3) Results: We show that ginsentide TP1 protects against DOX-induced cytotoxicity in the mitochondria-rich H9c2 cardiomyocytes and reduces myocardial injury in zebrafish and mice by mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, calcium, and mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as apoptosis-mediated cell death. Importantly, TP1 preserves cellular homeostasis without compromising the anticancer potency of DOX in breast cancer cells; (4) Conclusions: Our findings highlight a specific antioxidative function of ginsentide TP1 in managing DOX-induced cardiotoxicity during cancer treatment and provide a promising lead for developing cardioprotective peptides and microproteins against oxidative stress.

Abstract: A novel temporally resolved settle-plate air sampler was developed using 3D printing technology to improve upon traditional passive air sampling methods. Conventional settle plates provide cumulative measurements of particle or microbial loads over an entire sampling period, lacking temporal resolution necessary to identify specific contamination events. The described device integrates a Petri plate within a 3D-printed housing featuring a narrow slit that exposes only a small portion of the plate to incoming particles. A rotary mechanism, driven by a mechanical clock motor, rotates the petri plate over 12 hours, allowing for time-segmented sampling. Validation experiments demonstrated the device's ability to accurately encode the temporal history of particle deposition using both aerosolized dyes and viable microbial spores. The device effectively correlated bioaerosol deposition with ambient wind conditions during outdoor sampling. The system is inexpensive (under $10 USD), requires no specialized skills to assemble, and is compatible with existing settle plate methodologies. This innovation enhances the ability to conduct air quality assessments in critical environments, enabling data-driven decisions to mitigate contamination risks.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: This study piloted a 24-week bodybuilding program, combining resistance training (RT) with a dietary bulk and cut protocol, in middle-aged adult males. Methods: Eleven untrained males (34 ± 3.5 years) were introduced to a 24-week intervention combining RT with a dietary protocol consisting of 12-week cycles of caloric bulking (0-12 weeks) and cutting (12-24 weeks). Of the 11 participants, 7 males with obesity (BMI=35.04.6 kg/m2, body fat=365 %) completed the program, yielding a 64% retention rate. The compliance to training was at 96.7% and adherence to dietary cycles over 93%. To assess preliminary efficacy of the intervention, venous blood samples, and measurements of body composition (BodPod), muscle strength, and VO2max (cycle ergometer) were collected at baseline (week 0) and following the bulking (week 12) and cutting (week 24) cycles. Circulating lipids (triglycerides, total, low-density and high-density cholesterol), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were measured in serum. Results: The training led to significant increases in muscle strength, especially in the deadlift (+46%, p<0.001) and the squat (+65%, p<0.001). Improvements in body composition were characterized by an increase in fat-free mass, and a decrease in body fat percentage over the 24-week intervention (+3% and -6%, respectively, p<0.05). Lipids, CRP, IL-6, and IL-10 did not change significantly, but there was a notable reduction in TNF-α (time effect p=0.05, pη2=0.39), with 15% lower concentrations at week 24 compared to baseline, indicating reduced inflammation. Conclusions: Overall, the pilot intervention was feasible and led to improvements in body composition and lower resting TNF-α concentrations in a group of adult males with overweight and obesity.

Abstract: Antarctic microorganisms have genomic characteristics and biological functions to ensure survival in complex habitats, potentially representing bioactive compounds of biotechnological interest. Pseudarthrobacter sp. So.54 is an Antarctic bacteria strain isolated from the rhizospheric soil of Colobanthus quitensis. Our work aimed to study its genomic characteristics and metabolic potential, linked to environmental adaptation and the production of secondary metabolites with possible biotechnological applications. Whole-genome sequencing, assembly, phylogenetic analysis, functional annotation, and genomic islands prediction were performed to determine the taxonomic affiliation and differential characteristics of the strain So.54. Additionally, Biosynthetic Gene Clusters (BGCs) responsible for secondary metabolites production were identified. The assembled genome of strain So.54 has 3,871,805 bp with 66.0 % G + C content. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that strain So.54 belongs to the Pseudarthrobacter genus, nevertheless, its nucleotide and amino acid identity values were below the species threshold. The main metabolic pathways and 64 genomic islands associated with stress defense and environmental adaptation, such as heavy metal resistance genes, were identified. AntiSMASH analysis predicted six BGCs with low or no similarity to known clusters, suggesting potential as novel natural products. These findings indicate that strain So.54 could be a novel Pseudarthrobacter species with significant environmental adaptation and biotechnological potential.

Abstract: The high demand for sustainable biodiesel feedstocks has led to the exploration of innovative strategies to enhance lipid productivity in microalgae. This study introduces a push-pull strategy to optimize lipid accumulation in Nannochloropsis oculata. The benzyl amino purine (BAP) and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) stimulation, acting as the 'push' component, significantly boost growth and nutrient-stress tolerance. Meanwhile, the 'pull' component, nitrogen (N) deficiency, triggers lipid biosynthesis. A Box-Behnken design was employed to optimize the factors named BAP fraction (0-1), total phytohormone (PH) BAP/NAA mix dose (0-20 ppm), and N-concentration (0-50%). The combined BAP/NAA treatment not only significantly increased biomass (15% higher than the control) but also mitigated N-stress with higher doses (20 ppm). Lipid yield surged from 12.4% to 38.87% under optimized conditions (23.25% N, 39.5 ppm NAA, and BAP fraction 0). The push-pull strategy contributed to boosting lipid synthesis and balancing biomass production. N-limitation and total PH dosage were the determining factors in this strategy. This work demonstrates the potential of the push-pull strategy in increasing lipid accumulation, offering a promising and optimistic solution for biodiesel production at scale from microalgae. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, N. oculata emerges as a confident feedstock for oil extraction and biodiesel.

Abstract: To stimulate further research, we will discuss studies linking liver fibrosis with the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). AAA is defined as a permanently weakened and di-lated abdominal aorta, which develops due to inflammation of the tunica media, activa-tion of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, immune system activation, and coagu-lation disorders. Typically asymptomatic, AAA is often incidentally detected through imaging done for abdominal symptoms or as part of screening programs. AAA follows a variable course and has a mortality rate strongly dependent on age and sex. Risk factors for AAA include age, male sex, ethnicity, family history of AAA, lifestyle habits, arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, and comorbid atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Con-versely, individuals with type 2 diabetes, female sex, and certain ethnicities are at a re-duced risk of AAA. Liver fibrosis, resulting from chronic liver diseases owing of varying etiologies, is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to AAA development. We will specifically examine the epidemiology and risk factors associated with the link be-tween AAA and liver fibrosis. Additionally, we will discuss potential pathomechanisms that may explain this connection. Several key questions remain for future research, partic-ularly concerning targeted therapeutic interventions and the identification of novel bi-omarkers to predict disease progression.

Abstract: Postural balance deteriorates as heel height increases, but the dual-task interference effect has not been investigated. This study investigated the influence of two concurrent cognitive tasks on balance performance while wearing shoes with different heel heights. We hypothesized that the concurrent cognitive demands’ effect on balance deterioration would be more pronounced in shoes with increased heel height. Twenty-one women (21-54 years) were assessed for quiet stance balance performance while wearing shoes with low-, medium-and high-heel height. Cognitive interference on balance performance was investigated by a dual task condition using a short memory (COGN_A) and verbal fluency (COGN_B) task. Balance performance was quantified by measuring centre of pressure (CoP) path length and sway range, while errors made and scores in COGN_A and COGN_B assessed cognitive performance. Postural balance decreased as heel height increased with greater CoP path length and anteroposterior sway for the medium and high heeled shoes (p<0.001). Cognitive load did not affect balance performance, nor was there an interaction between cognitive load and balance with increasing heel height. The results suggest that cognitive load does not limit postural balance with increasing heel height, and that balance is more affected by the increased mechanical demands of heel height.

Abstract: Oncomelania hupensis quadrasi is the intermediate host of S. japonicum, the causative species for schistosomiasis in the Philippines. The World Health Organization promotes snail control with molluscicides, physical removal, and environmental modification to eliminate this neglected tropical disease as a public health problem. Conventionally, risk areas are identified by a series of malacological surveys, microscopic testing, and stool collection to confirm transmission of the disease in humans. However, these procedures require highly skilled personnel and regularly conducting them for higher surveillance efficiency. Recent developments in disease diagnostics explore the utilization of environmental DNA as targets for polymerase chain reactions for disease surveillance. In this study, a low-cost, specific, and efficient SYBR Green-based real-time PCR assay to detect O. h. quadrasi DNA from water samples was developed, optimized, and validated. Primers were designed from a microsatellite region of O. h. quadrasi. Amplification is optimum at 5µM primer concentration with 63°C annealing temperature. The optimized PCR reaction condition is 95°C for 3 minutes of enzyme activation, and 40 cycles of template denaturation, annealing, and extension at 95°C for 30 seconds and 63°C for 25 seconds, respectively, followed by a melt curve analysis. The assay exhibited a detection limit of 1 copy number per microliter. The assay furthermore exhibited 99.4% efficiency, R2= 0.999, which specifically amplifies O .h. quadrasi DNA only. Validation of this assay in environmental water samples demonstrated 100% PPV and 100% NPV values, suggesting a potential tool for identifying risk areas, pathogen-directed surveillance, policy making, and disease control.

Abstract:

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States, and accounts for one-third of all deaths worldwide. 1 In the United States, 43.9% of the adult population is projected to have some form of Cardiovascular Disease, CVD, by the year 2030. 2 The increasing trend of cardiovascular mortality is ever increasing especially for low and middle-income countries. 3 Some common risk factors that drive this trend include tobacco smoking, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diet. 4 Fortunately, some of the risk factors for CVD can be clinically assessed and treated medically through blood lipid profiles. Previously, this has been done through lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction, however, a closer look at the LDL subclasses or particle size distribution has revealed that it may be the size and not the number of lipoprotein particles that are a more powerful predictor of CVD. 5. It appears that small, less dense particles have a greater susceptibility to oxidation and permeability to the endothelial wall in the coronary vessels. 2 Furthermore, small, dense LDL particles also circulate longer in the blood stream and are likely to undergo numerous atherogenic modifications such as desialylation, glycation, and oxidation, increasing their atherogenicity. 6 Similar findings have been found with HDL particle sizes where small HDL particles have been associated with increased CVD risk. Conversely, the concentration of large HDL particles has been shown to be negatively correlated with CVD risk, however, the size of the HDL particle and its cardioprotective functions has not been clearly established in the literature and the mechanisms need further study. 7,8 Therefore, the purpose of this review is to discuss the effect of exercise (both aerobic & resistance training) and diet on HDL and LDL particle size.