Search Results (113)

Last instar larva and pupa of Hypera libanotidis Reitter, 1896 (Curculionidae: Hyperini) are described for the first time and compared with 44 other hyperine taxa. Larval morphology generally matches the diagnostic characters of Hyperini but shows distinctive traits, including thorn-like setae on conspicuous black protuberances, relatively long body setae, and dense spiculate coverings in larvae and pupae. Several unusual pupal characters, such as an atypical mesocoxal seta and a peculiar spiracular covering, further distinguish this species. These characters indicate close morphological affinity with species within the subgenus Eririnomorphus and also the genus Metadonus, suggesting a potentially close phylogenetic relationship. Biological observations confirm typical hyperine traits, including ectophytic larval feeding, cryptic coloration, and cocoon construction prior to pupation. Larval coloration, especially in early instars, partly corresponds with the host plant Libanotis pyrenaica. Larvae pupate in mesh-like cocoons on host plant remains, and no larval parasitism was observed. The species is associated with xerothermic loess grasslands, with adults apparently overwintering. Full article

Chest X-ray (CXR) imaging is one of the most widely used techniques for screening and diagnosing pulmonary diseases. However, discerning subtle structural changes, such as small nodules, disordered pulmonary textures, tiny cavities, pleural thickening, or spiculation, is difficult using low-resolution images. Acquiring high-resolution CXRs typically requires higher radiation doses, posing a risk to patients. We propose a chest X-ray image super-resolution algorithm based on generative adversarial networks (GAN). Through adversarial training, our approach generates high-resolution CXRs with enhanced details and improved realism. We further incorporate a CSA hybrid attention module into the network, strengthening its ability to capture fine structures and improve texture fidelity. Moreover, we remove the pooling layer from the channel attention module to overcome limitations in super-resolution, thereby preserving spatial information more effectively. Experiments demonstrate our method’s superior performance and robustness, achieving a PSNR of 37.91 and SSIM of 0.9108 on the internal test set while consistently outperforming other methods on previously unseen external clinical datasets. After adversarial training, the method attains optimal visual performance, with LPIPS reduced to 0.0915, and the visual effect improved by 36.4% compared to low-resolution images. Ablation studies further verify the contribution of the proposed method to enhancing super-resolution capability. Overall, results indicate that the proposed method can obtain high-quality chest X-rays images from simulated low-quality inputs. Full article

Erythrocyte aging is a fundamental physiological phenomenon that involves significant structural and nanomechanical alterations of the cells’ structure and function. Coupling optical, fluorescence, and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), we analyzed morphology, membrane roughness and nanomechanical properties of the very same RBCs arising from favism subjects, measured at different stages of their aging in vitro. We also investigated the evolution and abundance of vesicles arising from the cells over their senescence pathway. This approach combines high-resolution fluorescence imaging with the correlation of membrane topology and biomechanics. This explores the differences between investigation based on statistical morphometric parameters, such as membrane roughness, and those based on the measure of point-dependent nanomechanical properties. Our ultra-morphological study evidences the existence of clear differences in the aging of normal and favism erythrocytes that results in a larger number of cells with abnormal shapes and in a hyper-production of vesicles along the senescence pathway of favism cells. In explaining these differences, we focused on the roles played by the hemoglobin evolution and by the morpho-mechanical properties that are responsible for the skeletal alterations. In particular, our data reported evidence that the two corresponding degradative pathways are coupled and play an important enhancement role in promoting the progression of cell senescence. Full article

Silica spicules provide a natural transdermal conduit but require a linker that binds strongly under physiological conditions and releases payloads selectively in response to biological cues. Existing silane chemistries or polydopamine coatings lack enzyme responsiveness and show limited control over release. We created a 180-member peptide library with the motif L–X1–X2–[Y–F–Y]–A–L–G–P–H–C and screened for silica binding. Biophysical assays (circular dichroism, ζ-potential, quartz crystal microbalance, atomic force microscopy) and molecular dynamics identified high-affinity binders. The lead, P176, was tested for matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-responsive cleavage. Conjugation and release of Vitamin C and Stigmasterol were analyzed by HPLC and Franz diffusion cells. P176 showed high silica affinity (~55 µg mg⁻¹), robust biophysical signals (Δf −35 to −38 Hz; rupture force ~154 pN; ζ shift −22 to−11.5 mV), and favorable adsorption energy (−48.5 kcal mol⁻¹, contact 4.5 nm², 8.5 H-bonds). The MMP gate displayed efficient kinetics (Vmax 117.9 RFU·min⁻¹, Km 5.0 µM) with >90% cleavage at 60 min, reduced to 26% by inhibitor. Conjugation yields reached 87% (Vitamin C) and 77% (Stigmasterol). Franz diffusion showed MMP-dependent release (24 h: Vitamin C 90–96%, Stigmasterol 80–85%) with minimal basal leakage. Released Vitamin C enhanced collagen I to ~250% in fibroblasts, while Stigmasterol attenuated LPS-induced macrophage morphology; keratinocytes retained normal marker expression. This study demonstrates that a single amphipathic, sequence-programmed peptide can couple strong silica anchoring with protease-responsive release and broad payload compatibility, establishing a versatile platform for spicule-based transdermal and regenerative delivery. Full article

Background and Objectives: Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) provides both morphological and functional information and may reflect breast cancer biology similarly to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods: This single-center retrospective study included 399 women with Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) category 0 screening mammograms who subsequently underwent CEM. A total of 76 malignant lesions (68 invasive cancers, 8 ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)) with complete imaging and pathology data were analyzed. Invasive cancers were classified into luminal A, luminal B, luminal B/Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2)-positive, HER2-enriched, and triple-negative, and grouped as luminal (Group 1) versus HER2-positive/triple-negative (Group 2). Results: Luminal subtypes predominated (47 of 68, 69%), while 21 of 68 (31%) were HER2-positive or triple-negative. Most cancers appeared as masses with spiculated margins and heterogeneous enhancement. Significant differences were observed in mass shape (p = 0.03) and internal enhancement (p = 0.01). Luminal tumors were more often irregular and spiculated with heterogeneous enhancement, whereas the HER2-positive/triple-negative tumors more frequently appeared round with rim or homogeneous enhancement. Deep learning-derived malignancy scores (iCAD ProFound AI^®) demonstrated good diagnostic performance (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.744, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.654–0.821, p < 0.001). The median AI score was significantly higher in malignant compared with benign lesions (70% [interquartile range (IQR) 47–93] vs. 38% [IQR 25–61]; Mann–Whitney U test, p < 0.001). Among malignant lesions, iCAD scores varied across molecular subtypes, with higher median values observed in Group 1 versus Group 2 (87% vs. 55%), although the difference was not statistically significant (Mann–Whitney U test, p = 0.35). Conclusions: CEM features mirrored subtype-specific phenotypes previously described with MRI, supporting its role as a practical tool for enhanced tumor characterization. Although certain imaging and AI-derived parameters differed descriptively across subtypes, no statistically significant differences were observed. As deep-learning models continue to evolve, the integration of AI-enhanced CEM into clinical workflows holds strong potential to improve lesion characterization and risk stratification in personalized breast cancer diagnostics. Full article

Pigment gallstones represent a heterogeneous group of concretions, classically divided into black and brown types, whose morphology and microstructure offer critical clues about their underlying pathogenesis. Gallstone formation (lithogenesis) is a complex process triggered when the physicochemical equilibrium of bile is disrupted. Background/Objectives: The spicules observed on the surface of certain black pigment gallstones have traditionally been attributed to the branching capacity of cross-linked bilirubin polymers. However, a growing body of experimental and spectroscopic evidence suggests that inorganic calcium salts, particularly calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate, play a central role in the formation of the distinctive spiculated or “coral-like” architecture. Materials and Methods: In our study, we examined a case series of 1350 consecutive patients with gallstone disease, identifying 81 patients who presented with solitary black pigment stones. We systematically explored the association between high calcium content, specifically calcium carbonate, and the occurrence of spiculated morphology. Our analyses demonstrated a robust correlation between an elevated concentration of calcium carbonate and the presence of well-defined spicules. Results: These results support the hypothesis that mineral elements, rather than organic bilirubin polymers, act as crucial determinants of the peculiar crystalline structure observed in a significant subset of pigment stones. Spiculated stones, due to their small size and sharp projections, have a higher likelihood of migrating, increasing the risk of potentially life-threatening complications, such as acute cholangitis and gallstone pancreatitis. Conclusions: Our findings, consistent with recent advanced crystallographic analyses, underscore the importance of considering mineral composition in the diagnosis and management of cholelithiasis. Understanding the factors that drive calcium carbonate precipitation is essential for developing new preventive and therapeutic strategies, aiming to modulate bile chemistry and reduce the risk of calcium-driven lithogenesis. Full article

The craniofacial skeleton is a complex three-dimensional structure, and major reconstructive cases remain challenging. We describe a synergistic approach combining intra-operative navigation, three-dimensionally (3D) printed skull models, and mixed reality (MR) to improve predictability in surgical outcomes. A patient with previously repaired bilateral cleft lip and palate, significant midfacial retrusion, and a large maxillary alveolar gap underwent segmental Le Fort I osteotomy and advancement. Preoperative virtual planning was performed, and reference templates were uploaded onto MR glasses. Intra-operatively, the MR glasses projected the templates as holograms onto the patient’s skull, guiding osteotomy line marking and validating bony segment movement, which was confirmed with conventional navigation. The 3D-printed skull model facilitated dissection and removal of intervening bony spicules. Preoperative planning proceeded seamlessly across software platforms. Osteotomy lines marked with MR showed good concordance with conventional navigation, and final segment positioning was accurately validated. Postoperative outcomes were satisfactory, with re-established occlusion and closure of the maxillary alveolar gap. The combined use of conventional navigation, 3D-printed models, and MR is feasible and allows safe integration of MR into complex craniofacial reconstruction while further validation of the technology is ongoing. Full article

Three free-living marine nematode species of the family Desmodoridae are described and illustrated based on light and scanning electron microscopy. Pseudochromadora paraparva sp. nov. was collected from muddy sand sediments at Eulwangri Beach, Incheon, Korea, and P. capitata sp. nov. from sublittoral muddy sediments off Jindo Island, Korea. Metachromadora itoi Kito, 1978, is also recorded for the first time from Korean waters, based on specimens from sandy sediments off Jeju Island. Pseudochromadora paraparva sp. nov. is distinguished from P. parva Gagarin & Thanh, 2008 and related congeners by having a tripartite cephalic region consisting of a jar-shaped main capsule, an anterior transition zone with weaker cuticle bearing the cephalic setae, and a highly elevated hat-shaped labial region. It additionally shows a sexually dimorphic amphideal fovea, a unique arrangement of precloacal thorns, a gubernaculum with a dorsal apophysis, and ventral thorns lacking cuticular hillocks. Pseudochromadora capitata sp. nov. is characterized by a cephalic region composed of a rounded labial region and a thickly cuticularized main capsule, together with a sexually dimorphic amphideal fovea, arcuate spicules with a large hammer-shaped capitulum, a gubernaculum with a dorsal apophysis, and 3–8 precloacal and 3–5 postcloacal thorns arranged in a row. Molecular data (18S and 28S rRNA) were generated for both new species, and phylogenetic analyses support their placement within the genus Pseudochromadora and provide molecular evidence distinguishing them from closely related congeners. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) observations of M. itoi also revealed multiple configurations of the buccal cavity, providing additional morphological information useful for understanding structural variation within the genus. These findings refine the taxonomic framework within the Desmodoridae and expand current knowledge of morphological diversity in free-living marine nematodes. Full article

We describe two new species of Paradraconema from subtidal sediments of Korean waters: P. tamraense sp. nov. from Jeju Island and P. gangchii sp. nov. from Dokdo Island. Although the epithet tamraense had appeared previously in the literature, it was treated as a nomen nudum and therefore lacked nomenclatural availability under the ICZN. In this study, the species is newly and validly established based on a critical reassessment of the original material, supported by new line drawings and detailed observations using differential interference contrast (DIC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Paradraconema amraense sp. nov. is characterized by a slender body; pharyngeal annules bearing weakly developed longitudinal bars with smooth margins; a narrow lateral field at midbody; abundant and relatively long somatic setae; a head capsule partially covered with vacuolated ornamentation; an amphidial fovea that is elongate loop-shaped in males and circular, unispiral in females; eleven cephalic adhesion tubes (CAT); and comparatively long sublateral adhesion tubes (SlAT) and subventral adhesion tubes (SvAT). Paradraconema gangchii sp. nov. is characterized by a slender body; cuticle ornamentation with numerous longitudinal bars bearing finely crenulated margins in the pharyngeal region; sparse and short somatic setae; a head capsule fully covered with vacuolar ornamentation (reticulate under SEM); an amphidial fovea that is elongate loop-shaped in males and circular, unispiral, slightly over one coil in females; relatively short spicules (36–46 µm); eleven CAT; and relatively short SlAT and SvAT. SEM revealed several fine morphological features not previously documented in the genus, including the precise number and arrangement of CAT and detailed structures of the cuticle ornamentation and lip region. This study provides comprehensive SEM-based documentation for Paradraconema, increases the number of valid species in the genus to thirteen, and enhances our understanding of draconematid diversity in the northwestern Pacific. Full article

Two new species of free-living marine nematodes were collected in the Yellow Sea, China, and they are described herein as Actinonema sinica sp. nov. and Comesoma zhangi sp. nov. Actinonema sinica sp. nov. is characterized by short cephalic setae; lateral differentiation consisting of a row of longitudinal sclerotized bars and beginning at the level of anterior third of the pharyngeal region; horn-shaped telamons; a curved rod-shaped gubernaculum; and an elongate conical tail with a smooth, pointed tip. Comesoma zhangi sp. nov. is characterized by long, thick cephalic setae, reaching up to 28 µm in length; a cup-shaped buccal cavity lacking a tooth and narrowing posteriorly with small projections; an amphidial fovea with two turns; slender, arcuate spicules 2.6 times the cloacal body diameter in length, lacking a proximal capitulum; a plate-like gubernaculum without apophysis; and the absence of precloacal supplements. Updated keys to the valid species of the genus Actinonema and the genus Comesoma are provided. A comparative morphological table of all currently accepted species of Comesoma is also provided. Full article

Two new species of free-living marine nematodes from mangrove wetlands of Beihai, Guangxi province in China, are described and illustrated. Trissonchulus sinensis sp. nov. is characterized by a head continuous with the body, an amphidial fovea pouch-shaped, pharynx expanding gradually but not forming a posterior bulb, spicules sclerotized, blade-shaped, slightly curved ventrally, proximal part enlarged with a prominent central septum, posterior part slender and handle-like; gubernaculum small, composed of two distally connected sheet-like structures with tooth-like ends, and lacking apophysis. Metachromadora sinica sp. nov. is characterized by a cuticle that is finely annulated, labial sensilla papilliform, cephalic setae four in number, amphideal fovea loop-shaped, exhibiting a double-contoured appearance, pharyngeal bulb well-developed, internal cuticular lumen tripartite, lateral epidermal ridges present, spicules slender with an enlarged capitulum, gubernaculum boat-shaped, precloacal supplements absent, tail conical with two setose protuberances, three pairs of subventral preanal setae, and a pair of papillae situated anterior to the anus. Nearly full-length SSU sequences and D2-D3 of LSU sequences are provided for the new species. Phylogenetic analysis of SSU provided support for the current classification status of the two new species. In the SSU phylogenetic tree, the family Ironidae was recovered as a separate monophyletic clade. However, the phylogenetic relationships within the family Desmodoridae were complicated, and the subfamilies Desmodorinae and Spiriniinae were polyphyletic. A comprehensive taxonomic approach combining morphological observations and molecular phylogeny construction would be particularly valuable in a more robust nematode taxonomy. Full article

We investigated the occurrence of Radiospongilla inesi in a tilapia aquaculture facility located at the Chavantes Reservoir, Paranapanema River, Brazil. Specimens were collected from both artificial (net cages) and natural substrates along the reservoir margins in October and November 2024. Morphological analyses of 8 sponge samples, including 20 structures per sample (gemmules, megascleres, microscleres and spicules), identified the species as Radiospongilla inesi (Spongillidae). This is the third documented record of R. inesi in Brazil, and the first within the Paraná River Basin and in aquaculture net cage systems. Morphological features were consistent between individuals from natural and artificial substrates, although gemmules were absent in specimens colonizing the cages. The proliferation of R. inesi poses biofouling challenges by obstructing cage mesh openings, reducing water flow and dissolved oxygen levels, and potentially compromising fish welfare and production efficiency. These impacts increase operational costs and highlight the need for sustainable management strategies in freshwater aquaculture. Additionally, this study raises questions regarding the species’ native status in the Paraná Basin versus potential invasive dispersal, emphasizing the need for further ecological and distributional investigations. Potential dispersal mechanisms and possible biofouling impacts are discussed, with recommendations for future quantitative and molecular studies. Full article

Spread Through Air Spaces (STAS) is an emerging pattern of tumor invasion in lung cancer, first recognized by the World Health Organization in 2015. This narrative review examines STAS from a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating pathologic, radiologic, oncologic, and surgical points of view, together with molecular biology to assess its clinical significance, diagnostic challenges, and therapeutic implications. Pathologically, STAS is characterized by tumor cells floating beyond the main tumor, contributing to recurrence and poor prognosis. Radiologic advancements suggest potential imaging markers for STAS, such as spiculation, the absence of an air bronchogram, solid tumor components, as well as high fluorodeoxyglucose uptake, though definitive preoperative identification remains challenging. Oncologic studies link STAS to aggressive tumor behavior and lympho-vascular invasion, suggesting a role for adjuvant chemotherapy even in the earliest stages of disease; furthermore, specific molecular alterations have been discovered, including EGFR wild-type status and ALK/ROS1 rearrangements together with high Ki-67 expression, tumor necrosis, and alterations in cell adhesion proteins like E-cadherin. Surgical aspects highlight the increased risk of recurrence following limited resection, raising concerns about optimal surgical strategies. The debate over STAS as a true invasion mechanism versus an artifact from surgical handling underscores the need for standardized pathological evaluation. This review aims to refine STAS detection, integrate it into multidisciplinary treatment decision-making, and assess its potential as a staging criterion in lung cancer management. Full article

Wharton’s Jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cell (WJ-MSC) secretome contains diverse bioactive factors with potential for skin regeneration, but its clinical efficacy is limited by poor transdermal delivery. In this study, we developed a dual-delivery system by nanoencapsulating WJ-MSC secretome and coating it onto marine sponge-derived spicules. Physicochemical characterization, in vitro assays (fibroblast and keratinocyte proliferation, keratinocyte migration, type I procollagen secretion, and antioxidant activity), and in vivo penetration studies were conducted. A single-arm clinical trial evaluated dermal absorption, pore characteristics, skin texture, wrinkles, and pigmentation following topical application. Transdermal penetration efficiency was significantly higher in the nano-coated spicule group than in the uncoated secretome control. In vitro, secretome treatment promoted fibroblast and keratinocyte activity, accelerated wound closure, and increased collagen synthesis. Clinically, a single application enhanced dermal absorption and significantly reduced pore number, while two weeks of treatment decreased wrinkles and pigmentation. Spicule-based nanoencapsulation effectively overcomes the skin barrier, enhances the regenerative activity of WJ-MSC secretome, and induces measurable clinical improvements in skin rejuvenation. This platform represents a promising cosmetic and therapeutic strategy in dermatology. Full article

Hairless canary seed (Phalaris canariensis L.) can play significant roles in human health and nutrition due to its unique nutrient profile. It belongs to the Gramineae family similar to common cereal grains like wheat, rice and corn. On the other hand, the traditional canary seed is characterized by the presence of silicified spicules or hairs on the hulls of the kernel that could pose health hazards to humans. The hairless canary seed was developed in Canada by a conventional breeding program to mitigate the health concerns associated with the silicified hairs. The hairless grain is silica free, i.e., totally glabrous, and is granted regulatory food approvals by Health Canada and US-FDA. The hairless grain holds a great potential as a whole grain functional food ingredient due to its unique nutritional and functional attributes. As a cereal grain, it is rich in protein that is non-gluten and exceptionally high in tryptophan and bioactive peptides. The grain also contains reasonable amounts of carotenoids, polyphenols, and healthy unsaturated oil. Because of these special characteristics, it is considered a promising nutritious and therapeutic food. This review provides insights into the potential of hairless canary seed as a functional ingredient in products designed to mitigate oxidative stress, diabetes and celiac disease and/or to improve vision and cognition. Full article