V. Brumfeld

Cell-mediated cholesterol crystal processing and clearance observed by 3D cryo-imaging in human atherosclerotic plaques

The paper uses 3D cryo-imaging to show that cells clear cholesterol crystals in human atherosclerotic plaques through enzymatic esterification.

The petrous bone contains high concentrations of osteocytes: one possible reason why ancient DNA is better preserved in this bone.

The paper investigates why ancient DNA is better preserved in petrous bones by showing they contain three times more osteocytes than other bones, which may preserve more DNA during fossilization.

The effect of soil potassium and carbohydrates on xylem conductivity and embolism in an evergreen angiosperm tree and a gymnosperm tree before and after drought

This study examines how potassium and carbohydrates affect xylem conductivity and embolism in two tree species before and after drought, finding that potassium improves conductivity more in lemon trees than pine, but this benefit disappears during drought.

Cystoliths in Ficus leaves: increasing carbon fixation in saturating light by light scattering off a mineral substrate

The paper investigates how cystoliths in Ficus leaves enhance photosynthesis under saturating light by scattering light into the leaf center, improving CO2 assimilation.

The formation of microbial exoskeletons is driven by a controlled calcium-concentrating subcellular niche

This paper identifies a calcium-accumulating subcellular niche in bacteria that drives biofilm mineralization, showing its conservation across species and potential as a drug target.

Development of High-Order Organization of Guanine-Based Reflectors Underlies the Dual Functionality of the Zebrafish Iris

This study investigates the development of a high-order organization of guanine-based reflectors in zebrafish irises, revealing how this structure enables dual functionality as a light barrier and camouflage.

Isoxanthopterin: An Optically Functional Biogenic Crystal in the Eyes of Decapod Crustaceans

The paper identifies isoxanthopterin as the crystalline material forming both the distal mirror and tapetum in decapod crustacean eyes, explaining its high refractive index and reflective properties.