bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can the Contents of Biogenic Amines in Olomoucké Tvarůžky Cheeses Be Risky for Consumers?
Authors: Samková Eva , Dadáková Eva , Matějková Kateřina , Hasoňová Lucie , Janoušek Honesová Simona
Published: January 2025

Smear-ripened cheeses are fermented dairy products characterised by an increased content of biogenic amines (BAs). The high contents of these bioactive compounds can negatively affect consumers. The study aimed to observe the contents of BAs and po-lyamines (PAs) in Olomoucké tvarůžky cheeses depending on selected factors (year, batch, ripening/storage time, shape, weight, specific surface area, acidity, and salt content). The results showed that the variability was explained primarily by the batch (83% for the sum of BAs) and by the year (63% for the sum of PAs). The storage time significantly influenced the contents of putrescine, cadaverine, spermidine, and spermine (the explained variability was only 1–3%). The total BA contents negatively correlated with weight (r = −0.6374; p < 0.001) and positively with specific surface area (r = +0.4349; p < 0.001). A negligible positive correlation coefficient was found between the total BAs and pH (r = +0.1303). A low negative correlation was also found between the total BAs and salt content (r = −0.1328). Compared to previous studies, the total average BA contents were considerably low. In conclusion, this type of cheese does not represent a serious problem for most consumers.
Validation of the Vitamin B6 Profile (Pyridoxine, Pyridoxal, and Pyridoxamine) Analysis in Rice Consumed in Korea: Effects of Cooking and Variety
Authors: Je Minyoung , Lee Hui Jin , Chun Jiyeon
Published: January 2025

Rice, a widely consumed grain, contains various forms of vitamin B6, including pyridoxine (PN), pyridoxal (PL), and pyridoxamine (PM). However, limited information exists on their content and distribution in rice. This study analyzed the vitamin B6 profile and retention of different rice varieties consumed in Korea, using sonication-assisted acid extraction and HPLC-FLD. Retention rates were calculated based on B6 content before and after cooking. Five rice varieties were selected: Baromi2 (brown rice), Annammi, Chucheong (white rice), New breed white Baromi2, and New breed brown Baromi2. Vitamin B6 content ranged from 142.92 μg/100 g (Baromi2) to 35.89 μg/100 g (Chucheong). After cooking, Annammi showed the highest retention (109.4%), with pyridoxamine retaining 116.4%. Baromi2 had the lowest retention (34.5%), with pyridoxal at 22.1%. The analytical method demonstrated excellent accuracy (recovery rate 100.0–103.4%), precision (RSDr < 3.0%, RSDR < 6.7%), and linearity (R2 > 0.9998). The detection limits and quantification limits for the vitamin B6 vitamers ranged from 0.040 to 0.070 μg/100 g and 0.103 to 0.187 μg/100 g, respectively. The results showed significant variations in vitamin B6 profiles and individual retention rates across rice varieties, highlighting the need for more comprehensive data on B6 levels. Analyzing the pyridoxal, pyridoxamine, and pyridoxine provides a more complete understanding of the B6 profile of rice, enhancing nutritional evaluations and precision nutrition.
Construction of the Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) Family Selection Population and Whole Genome Sequencing to Screen WIPFI Candidate Genes Related to Growth
Authors: Tian Xing , Yuan Xiudan , He Zhigang , Li Weiguo , Li Jinlong , He Yong , Deng Shiming , Guo Jiarong , Fang Miaoquan , Wang Dongwu
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Procambarus clarkii is an important freshwater aquaculture species in China which has the characteristics of rich nutrition and delicious taste. However, the expansion of aquaculture scale, germplasm degradation, and other problems that have become increasingly prominent seriously restrict the sustainable development of the crayfish industry. Genetic improvement is an urgent need for the crayfish aquaculture industry, and selective breeding is an important way to improve the crayfish varieties. Methods: We established full-sibling family populations of the red swamp crayfish and performed whole-genome resequencing of the F3 family-selected red swamp crayfish population and wild red swamp crayfish populations from four regions of Hunan Province (Nanx, Mil, Caish, and Wangc). Results: The results showed that there was a clear separation between the wild population and the family population, and the decline rate was slightly faster in the wild population than that of the family breeding population. There was local gene flow between family populations, as well as gene flow between Mil, Caish, and families. In addition, 52 SNP loci related to body weight traits were identified by genome-wide association analysis, and the candidate gene WIPF1 related to growth was screened out. Conclusions: We established a line selection population of red swamp crayfish and obtained more stable candidate lines. In addition, this study identified Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein-interacting protein family member 1 (WIPF1) as a candidate gene related to body weight for the first time. The results provide a theoretical basis for exploring the growth mechanism of P. clarkii and carrying out in-depth genetic improvement.
Enhancing High Reliability in Oncology Care: The Critical Role of Nurses—A Systematic Review and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Komatsu Hiroko , Hara Akemi , Koyama Fumiko , Komatsu Yasuhiro
Published: January 2025

Background/objectives: The oncology setting is complex and recognized as a high-risk area, with an increased potential for errors due to the complexity of therapeutic modalities and different processes. Nurses are pivotal in fostering a culture of patient safety and high reliability and actively contribute to the enhancement of safety standards in oncology care. This review systematically identified and examined the critical role of nurses in promoting high reliability within oncology organizations to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Methods: A systematic review was performed in the PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochran Library databases in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Using Tomas and Harden’s three stages, 12 studies were deductively and thematically analyzed to discover themes. Results: We identified eight themes concerning nurses’ roles in achieving high reliability in healthcare within oncology organizations: establishing standardized and safe administration, enhancing situational awareness, promoting effective communication, advocating for patients, building a culture of safety, leading safety culture improvements, engaging staff, and fostering patient engagement. Conclusions: Nurses play a critical role in identifying, communicating, and correcting safety threats, overcoming various organizational barriers to safety concerns, and maintaining and developing a culture of safety for patients and families. Although this review included a relatively limited body of literature, the findings highlight the need for further research that considers the unique characteristics of health and healthcare systems. Protocol registry; UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR) Registry No. UMIN000056140.
A Computational Framework Analysis of Public Attitudes Toward Male Human Papillomavirus Infection and Its Vaccination in China: Based on Weibo Data
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Gao Hao , Wang Jun
Published: January 2025

Background/Aims: The global promotion of HPV vaccines has underscored the importance of vaccination for both males and females in reducing disease transmission and associated complications. Despite robust evidence supporting male HPV vaccination, China has yet to approve it. Public discussions on male HPV vaccination, influenced by policy delays, gender norms, and commercialization, reveal diverse attitudes and significant challenges in achieving equitable health outcomes. This study investigates public perceptions and attitudes toward male HPV vaccination in China by analyzing cognitive frames and the social, cultural, and economic factors shaping these discussions. Methods: This study employs a cross-sectional design to analyze 4997 Sina Weibo posts using the Analysis of Topic Model Networks (ANTMN), identifying five frames: Disease Risk and Prevention, Virus Transmission, Gender Roles and Perceptions, Vaccine Promotion and Acceptance, and Market Dynamics and Consumption. Results: The findings reveal a significant gap between policy implementation and public awareness of male HPV vaccination in China. Despite growing recognition of its benefits, entrenched gender norms and biases hinder equitable health outcomes. Social media, as a pivotal platform for health communication, plays a dual role in facilitating public discourse while also amplifying misinformation. Policy delays and concerns over vaccine commercialization heighten public hesitancy, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and targeted education. Conclusions: This study highlights the necessity for systemic efforts to address gender biases, enhance public education on male HPV vaccination, and rebuild trust in vaccination programs. A multifaceted approach is required to bridge these gaps, integrating policy reforms, inclusive health communication strategies, and equitable vaccine access. These measures aim to promote awareness and increase vaccination uptake among males in China, ultimately contributing to more comprehensive and equitable public health outcomes.
Table Grape Ferritin1 Is Implicated in Iron Accumulation, Iron Homeostasis, and Plant Tolerance to Iron Toxicity and H2O2 Induced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Xie Zhenqiang , Peng Bin , Shi Matthew , Yang Guangrong , Song Zhizhong
Published: January 2025

In plants, Ferritin is the earliest discovered regulator of iron (Fe) metabolism and plays a critical role in maintaining Fe storage and sequestration, which contributes to cellular Fe homeostasis and tolerance to abiotic stresses. However, biological functions of Ferritin proteins in perennial fruit crops are largely rare. In this study, VvFerritin1 was isolated from ‘Irsay Oliver’ table grape, and it was mainly expressed in roots and induced under Fe toxicity, H2O2 stress, and abscisic acid (ABA) treatment. Complementation of VvFerritin2 in yeast mutant DEY1453 directly restored the mutant growth, and VvFerritin1 can transport Fe2+ in yeast. The heterologous expression of VvFerritin1 in fer1-2 mutant effectively rescued the dwarfed growth of Arabidopsis fer1-2 mutant, under the control condition, Fe toxicity, or H2O2 stress, embodied in enhanced fresh weight (126%, 81%, or 48%), total root length (140%, 98%, or 64%), total root surface (70%, 84%, or 120%), and total leaf chlorophyll (56%, 51%, or 53%), respectively. In particular, tissue Fe concentration and activities of nitrite reductase (NiR), aconitase (ACO), and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) were significantly enhanced in fer1-2/35S::Ferritin1 lines, respectively, compared to that of fer1-2 mutant. This work contributes to the study of molecular mechanisms of Fe storage and homeostasis in ‘Irsay Oliver’ table grape.
Mental and Physical Well-Being of Partners of People Living with Chronic Pain: A Narrative Review
Authors: Newton-John Toby R. O. , Cave Shari , Bean Debbie J.
Published: January 2025

This narrative review aims to explore the mental and physical well-being of partners of individuals living with chronic pain. Chronic pain not only affects those who suffer from it, but also significantly impacts the lives of their partners; however, the impacts on partners are not well recognised, despite extensive evidence indicating that their quality of life can be equally affected. This review synthesises current literature to identify the psychological and physical challenges faced by these partners, including increased stress, anxiety, depression, and the potential for developing chronic health conditions themselves. A search of Medline for “chronic pain” and “partner/spouse” from January 1990 to the present was performed, and relevant articles were selected for review. The main findings were that while partners often experience a range of negative physical and psychosocial impacts on their quality of life, dyadic coping strategies can mitigate these effects. This review underscores the importance of future research to develop targeted interventions that address the unique needs of this population, promoting better health outcomes and fostering resilience in the face of chronic pain.
Targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 Signaling Pathway for Cancer Therapy: Focus on Biomarkers
Authors: Strati Areti , Adamopoulos Christos , Kotsantis Ioannis , Psyrri Amanda , Lianidou Evi , Papavassiliou Athanasios G.
Published: January 2025

The PD1/PD-L1 axis plays an important immunosuppressive role during the T-cell-mediated immune response, which is essential for the physiological homeostasis of the immune system. The biology of the immunological microenvironment is extremely complex and crucial for the development of treatment strategies for immunotherapy. Characterization of the immunological, genomic or transcriptomic landscape of cancer patients could allow discrimination between responders and non-responders to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has shown remarkable efficacy in a variety of malignancies in landmark trials and has fundamentally changed cancer therapy. Current research focuses on strategies to maximize patient selection for therapy, clarify mechanisms of resistance, improve existing biomarkers, including PD-L1 expression and tumor mutational burden (TMB), and discover new biomarkers. In this review, we focus on the function of the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway and discuss the immunological, genomic, epigenetic and transcriptomic landscape in cancer patients receiving anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. Finally, we provide an overview of the clinical trials testing the efficacy of antibodies against PD-1/PD-L1.
Glycoscience in Advancing PD-1/PD-L1-Axis-Targeted Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Sun Qiyue , Hong Senlian
Published: January 2025

Immune checkpoint blockade therapy, represented by anti-PD-1/PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies, has significantly changed the immunotherapy landscape. However, the treatment is still limited by unsatisfactory response rates, immune-related adverse effects, and drug resistance. Current studies have established that glycosylation, a common post-translational modification, is crucial in promoting cancer progression and immune invasion. Targeting aberrant glycosylation in cancers presents precision medicine regimens for monitoring cancer progression and developing personalized medicine. Notably, the immune checkpoints PD-1 and PD-L1 are highly glycosylated, which affects PD-1/PD-L1 interaction and the binding of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies. Recent achievements in glycoscience to enhance patient outcomes, referred to as glycotherapy, have underscored their high potency in advancing PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapies, i.e., glycoengineered antibodies with improved binding toward PD-1/PD-L1, pharmaceutic inhibitors for core fucosylation and sialylation, and synergistic treatment with the antibody–sialidase conjugate. This review briefly introduces the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and glycosylation and highlights the fundamental and applied advances in glycoscience that improve PD-1/PD-L1 immunoblockade therapies.
Allele-Specific CG/CCWGG Methylation of the PSA Promoter Discriminates Aggressive, Indolent, and Benign Prostate Cell Lines and Is Involved in the Regulation of PSA Expression
Authors: Baryshev Mikhail , Vjaters Egils
Published: January 2025

Prostate-specific antigen remains a cornerstone biomarker for prostate cancer diagnosis and management. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating its expression, particularly through DNA methylation, are not fully understood. Here, we report a comprehensive analysis of allele-specific CpG and CCWGG methylation in the proximal PSA promoter across aggressive (PC3), indolent (LNCaP), benign (BPH1), and normal (HPrEpiC) prostate cell lines and provide insights into the unique methylation patterns associated with these states. Our findings reveal that PC3 cells, representing an aggressive PCa phenotype, exhibit complete biallelic methylation of the PSA promoter, leading to PSA gene silencing. Conversely, LNCaP cells display a fully unmethylated promoter with biallelic PSA expression. Interestingly, BPH1 cells display a monoallelic CG/CCWGG methylation pattern, yet fail to express PSA, suggesting imprinting defects or RNA decay mechanisms. Notably, acquisition of biallelic PSA promoter methylation status in PC3 was accompanied by upregulation of DNMT1, whereas unmethylated PSA promoter state in LNCaP was associated with downregulation of DNMT1. These findings highlight distinct methylation patterns in the PSA promoter that differentiate between aggressive, indolent, and benign prostate states. Translating this epigenetic insight into clinical diagnostics could enhance the precision of PSA-based diagnostics, addressing limitations such as false negatives in PSA testing for aggressive PCa. Further exploration of CCWGG methylation’s role in imprinting and monoallelic expression is warranted, particularly in patient-derived samples.
Nanotechnology Meets Phytotherapy: A Cutting-Edge Approach to Treat Bacterial Infections
Authors: Pacyga Katarzyna , Pacyga Paweł , Szuba Emilia , Viscardi Szymon , Topola Ewa , Duda-Madej Anna
Published: January 2025

The increasing prevalence of bacterial infections and the rise in antibiotic resistance have prompted the search for alternative therapeutic strategies. One promising approach involves combining plant-based bioactive substances with nanoparticles, which have demonstrated improved antimicrobial activity compared to their free forms, both in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical studies. This approach not only improves their stability but also enables targeted delivery to bacterial cells, reducing side effects and minimising the risk of resistance development, leading to more effective treatments. This narrative review explores the benefits of combining bioactive plant compounds (berberine, catechin, chelerythrine, cinnamaldehyde, ellagic acid, proanthocyanidin, and sanguinarine) with nanoparticles for the treatment of bacterial infections (caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), highlighting the potential of this approach to overcome the limitations of traditional antimicrobial therapies. Ultimately, this strategy offers a promising alternative in the fight against resistant bacterial strains, paving the way for the development of more effective and sustainable treatments.
Advances in Pathogenesis and Treatment of Skin Cancer
Authors: Flori Enrica , Cardinali Giorgia , Maresca Vittoria
Published: January 2025

This Special Issue is a collection of papers on skin cancers, focusing on their etiopathogenesis and the most innovative and effective therapies [...]
Botanical Antifeedants: An Alternative Approach to Pest Control
Authors: Pavela Roman , Kovaříková Kateřina , Novák Matěj
Published: January 2025

Plant protection against phytophagous pests still largely relies on the application of synthetic insecticides, which can lead to environmental and health risks that are further exacerbated by the development of resistant pest populations. These are the driving forces behind the current trend of research and the development of new ecological insecticides. The mode of action does not have to rely exclusively on acute or chronic toxicity. Another promising approach is the use of plant antifeedants, which can significantly reduce the food intake of phytophagous insects. However, the information on antifeedant substances has not yet been sufficiently evaluated. The aim of this review was to find the most promising plants that provide potent extracts, essential oils (EOs), or isolated compounds with antifeedant properties. The selection was based on a comparison of effective concentrations or doses. Effective extracts were obtained from 85 plant species belonging to 35 families and the EOs came from 38 aromatic plant species from 11 families. Based on the results, Angelica archangelica, Caesalpinia bonduc, Grindelia camporum, Inula auriculata, Lavandula luisieri, Mentha pulegium, Piper hispidinervum, and Vitis vinifera were selected as promising plants with antifeedant potential. These plants are potent antifeedants, and at the same time provide sufficient biomass for industrial use in the development and production of botanical antifeedants.
Chemosterilant Potential of Insect Growth Regulators for Management of Bactrocera cucurbitae (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Kainat Iqra , Saeed Shafqat , Farooq Muhammad Asif , Alkherb Wafa A. H. , Abbasi Asim , Baig Farrukh , Liaqat Umer , Khan Fawad Zafar Ahmad , Akram Muhammad Irfan , Hasnain Muhammad , Rebouh Nazih Y.
Published: January 2025

The melon fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae, is an important insect pest responsible for significant yield losses in vegetables. Conventional control methods, like pesticide applications, have certain limitations, including environmental contamination. This study evaluated the chemosterilant potential of five new insect growth regulators (IGRs)—Pyriproxyfen; Novaluron; Lufenuron; Buprofezin; and Flubendiamide—at concentrations ranging from 50 to 300 ppm in a 5 mL diet against B. cucurbitae. Laboratory trials identified Lufenuron as the most effective IGR, which reduced fecundity by 68.4% and adult emergence by 70.97% at a 300 ppm concentration. Other IGRs, Pyriproxyfen; Novaluron; Buprofezin; and Flubendiamide, also significantly reduced fecundity and adult emergence at higher concentrations. Based on laboratory performance, Lufenuron was selected for field trials using six bait traps per 0.4 hectares. The field trials demonstrated a higher number of B. cucurbitae adult captures in Lufenuron-based bait traps compared to the control and reductions in crop damage, with fruit fly damage decreasing by 7.01% in August and 4.25% in September. This study highlights the potential of chemosterilant baited traps as a promising approach for integrated fruit fly management programs in cucurbitaceous vegetables.
Exploiting Plant–Natural Enemy Interactions: Selection and Evaluation of Plants for the Improvement of Biological Control
Authors: Cortez-Madrigal Hipolito
Published: January 2025

To identify and select wild plant species as a source of nectar and pollen for the conservation of natural enemies (NEs), with an emphasis on parasitic Hymenoptera, entomological samplings were carried out on the inflorescences of plants in the northwest of Michoacán, Mexico, in 2020. The species were selected based on the number and diversity of NEs, flowering period, phytosanitary risks (pests), and ease of multiplication. Of more than 27 plant species, NEs were recorded in 24. The Eulophid family represented 74.14% of 23 families of parasitoids recorded, and in 19 of the 23 plant species with parasitoids, the eulophid family was the most prevalent. Thirteen plant species were selected; annual species such as Tithonia tubaeformis and Stevia serrata stand out. Among the shrubs, Senecio salignus and Baccharis salicifolia stand out, as do trees such as Viguiera quinqueradiata, Thouinia villosa and Buddleja parviflora. Serjania racemosa and Phytolacca icosandra stand out for their long flowering period (>5 months) and the wide diversity of beneficial entomofauna. They are plants that reproduce easily and have a low phytosanitary risk to crops. The presence of flowering plants in agroecosystems could attract and maintain NE populations, even before pests arrive, with predictable benefits for integrated pest management.
Atrial Fibrillation Prediction Model Following Aortic Valve Replacement Surgery
Authors: Knez Nora , Kopjar Tomislav , Tokic Tomislav , Gasparovic Hrvoje
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common complication following cardiac surgery. It leads to increased perioperative morbidity and costs. Our study aimed to determine the incidence of new-onset POAF in patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) and develop a multivariate model to identify its predictors. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective study including all consecutive patients who underwent isolated AVR at our institution between January 2010 and December 2022. Patients younger than 18, with a history of atrial fibrillation, previous cardiac surgery, or those who underwent concomitant procedures were excluded. Patients were dichotomized into POAF and No POAF groups. Multivariate logistic regression with backward elimination was utilized for predictive modeling. (3) Results: This study included 1108 patients, of which 297 (27%) developed POAF. The final multivariate model identified age, larger valve size, cardiopulmonary bypass time, delayed sternal closure, ventilation time, and intensive care unit stay as predictors of POAF. The model exhibited fair predictive ability (AUC = 0.678, p < 0.001), with the Hosmer–Lemeshow test confirming good model fit (p = 0.655). The overall correct classification percentage was 65.6%. (4) Conclusions: A POAF prediction model offers personalized risk estimates, allowing for tailored management strategies with the potential to enhance patient outcomes and optimize healthcare costs.
The Brain Toxin Cleansing of Sleep Achieved During Wakefulness
Authors: Arendash Gary W.
Published: January 2025

A primary purpose of sleep for humans is to remove toxins and metabolic wastes from the brain (e.g., Aβ, tau, lactate) that would otherwise build up and compromise brain functionality. There are currently no drugs or devices that have been clinically shown in humans to enhance brain toxin removal, either during sleep or wakefulness. This perspective article focuses on a recently (re)discovered major route of toxin drainage from the human brain through meningeal lymphatic vessels (mLVs) and the primary enhancer of their flow—the cytokine Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). The purpose of this perspective article is to present pre-clinical and clinical evidence relevant to a new bioengineered technology (Transcranial Radiofrequency Treatment; TRFT) that appears to enhance mLV flow to increase brain toxin cleansing in humans during wakefulness. In being both safe and non-invasive, TRFT is administered in-home, presently through a device called “MemorEM”. Two months of daily TRFT during wakefulness increased the typically low plasma/brain levels of VEGF in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) subjects, which was associated with increased Aβ and tau toxin removal from their brains during wakefulness—ostensibly through VEGF-increased mLV flow. Even irrespective of baseline VEGF levels, brain toxin cleansing was increased by TRFT in AD subjects, who also experienced a notable reversal of their cognitive impairment after TRFT. Additional clinical studies are nonetheless required to firmly establish TRFT’s brain cleansing abilities during wakefulness. In performing a major duty of sleep, TRFT during wakefulness is proposed as a viable intervention to counter the decline in nighttime brain toxin cleansing that occurs with aging and in multiple brain diseases, most notably Alzheimer’s Disease. The implications of TRFT for insomnia and for sleep deprivation are also discussed, as is the potential for TRFT to extend healthy human longevity.
Comorbid Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Mood Disorder in a South African Sample of Substance Use Disorder Patients
Authors: Truter Ilse , Regnart Judith , Meyer Anneke
Published: January 2025

Background: The brain reward circuitry is thought to underlie the co-occurrence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and substance use disorder (SUD) and to possibly impact mood disorders. This study aimed to establish if any difference existed in the severity of depression symptomology between SUD comorbidity with and without ADHD. Methods: A multi-centre, cross-sectional comparison study design drew study participants from substance use treatment facilities within South Africa. The participants were screened for ADHD and depression, with the selective application of a confirmatory ADHD diagnostic interview. The participants were diagnostically grouped according (SUD + ADHD, SUD − ADHD) to an application of a 2 x 2 x 3 ANOVA model. Results: A significant main effect of ADHD diagnosis and gender on depressive symptoms was identified. Post hoc analysis revealed that only male ADHD subjects had significantly higher scores on the Beck scale than non-ADHD males. Conclusions: Co-occurring disorder (COD) prevalence rates were higher than most other South African studies. The aggravation of ADHD on mood disorder symptom severity is consistent with the existing literature; however, further investigation is warranted to determine if the interaction of gender remains only significant for men with a lager sample size. The identified COD prevalence rate may contrast with other South Africa studies, emphasising the need for comprehensive psychiatric comorbidity screening in SUD treatment settings.
Age-Related Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography: In Which Subgroups Does Age Matter? Results from a Large-Scale Retrospective Registry
Authors: Kuhn Lasse , Schupp Tobias , Steinke Philipp , Dudda Jonas , Abumayyaleh Mohammad , Weidner Kathrin , Bertsch Thomas , Rusnak Jonas , Akin Ibrahim , Behnes Michael
Published: January 2025

Background: The study investigates age-related differences in the prevalence and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD), as well as long-term outcomes in a large cohort of unselected patients undergoing invasive coronary angiography (CA). The aging population, along with an increasing number of older and multi-morbid patients undergoing CA, poses challenges for healthcare systems. Despite this, studies investigating age-related differences in the long-term outcomes of unselected patients undergoing CA are limited. Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing invasive CA from 2016 to 2022 were included from one institution. The prognosis of patients undergoing CA stratified by pre-specified age groups (i.e., 40–<60, 60–<80 and ≥80 years) was investigated with regard to the primary endpoint of rehospitalization for heart failure (HF), as well as the risks of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and coronary revascularization at 36 months. Results: From 2016 to 2022, 7520 patients undergoing CA were included with a median age of 70 years (mean: 69 years). The prevalence of CAD (61.9% vs. 71.8% vs. 77.3%; p = 0.001), as well as the prevalence of three-vessel CAD (21.0% vs. 31.5% vs. 36.1%) increased with age. At 36 months, patients ≥ 80 years of age had the highest rates of rehospitalization for HF, followed by patients 60–<80 years and patients 40–<60 years (28.4% vs. 23.2% vs. 14.0%; p = 0.001). Consequently, compared to younger patients (i.e., 40–<60 years of age), those ≥80 years of age exhibited the highest risk of HF-related rehospitalization (≥ 80 years: HR = 2.205; 95% CI 1.884–2.579; p = 0.001), followed by those 60–< 80 years (HR = 1.765; 95% CI 1.536–2.029; p = 0.001). The increased risk of rehospitalization for HF at 36 months was still observed after multivariable adjustment (i.e., ≥80 years: HR = 1.265; 95% CI 1.049–1.524; p = 0.014; 60–<80 years: HR = 1.339; 95% CI 1.145–1.565; p = 0.001) and was specifically evident in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≥ 35% and in patients without evidence of CAD/single-vessel CAD. In contrast, the rates of AMI and coronary revascularization at 36 months did not differ significantly among different age groups. Conclusions: Advanced age is an independent predictor of rehospitalization for HF in patients undergoing CA, but not AMI and revascularization during long-term follow-up. This highlights the importance of optimizing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for HF, particularly in older patients undergoing CA.
Vancomycin Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms: Meta-Analysis and Pharmacovigilance Study
Authors: Aboukaoud Mohammed , Adi Yotam , Abu-Shakra Mahmoud , Morhi Yocheved , Agbaria Riad
Published: January 2025

Background: Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms is a severe cutaneous reaction with a high mortality rate. It is challenging to diagnose due to its similar presentation to infectious disease syndromes, variation with the culprit drug, and lack of awareness. Methods: We searched PubMed, and Embase, for RegiSCAR-scored observational studies, the FDA Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) for adverse event reports, and the Allele Frequency Net Database (AFND) for HLA allele frequency. In our meta-analysis, we employed a random effects model to subgroup patients by ethnicity to determine the proportion of DRESS cases compared with various associated medications. Additionally, we identified a correlation between the proportion of cases and the presence of the HLA*A-32:01allele, which is suspected to predispose individuals to DRESS. Results: Twenty-one studies on 1949 DRESS cases in vancomycin and 2558 antimicrobial DRESS reports in the FAERS database were analyzed. Meta-analysis showed a 27% incidence of vancomycin-DRESS, with Caucasians having the highest proportion at 36%. The median latency for symptom onset was 21 days, with no female predisposition. The proportional incidence of vancomycin-DRESS did not correlate with the HLA-A*32:01 allele. The adjusted ROR for vancomycin was 2.40 compared to other antimicrobials, and the risk increased by 77% with concurrent antimicrobials. Piperacillin/tazobactam had a similar DRESS reporting risk at 0.95 (95%CI: 0.88–1.02). Conclusions: Vancomycin significantly contributes to the incidence of DRESS and is more closely related to ethnicity than to allele frequency, indicating that the HLA-A*32:01 allele may not be directly involved. Furthermore, the use of other antimicrobials can influence the reaction, underscoring the need to minimize antimicrobial use for better coverage.
Validation of Novel Image Processing Method for Objective Quantification of Intra-Articular Bleeding During Arthroscopic Procedures
Authors: Birsel Olgar , Zengin Umut , Eren Ilker , Ersen Ali , Semiz Beren , Demirhan Mehmet
Published: January 2025

Visual clarity is crucial for shoulder arthroscopy, directly influencing surgical precision and outcomes. Despite advances in imaging technology, intraoperative bleeding remains a significant obstacle to optimal visibility, with subjective evaluation methods lacking consistency and standardization. This study proposes a novel image processing system to objectively quantify bleeding and assess surgical effectiveness. The system uses color recognition algorithms to calculate a bleeding score based on pixel ratios by incorporating multiple color spaces to enhance accuracy and minimize errors. Moreover, 200 three-second video clips from prior arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs were evaluated by three senior surgeons trained on the system’s color metrics and scoring process. Assessments were repeated two weeks later to test intraobserver reliability. The system’s scores were compared to the average score given by the surgeons. The average surgeon-assigned score was 5.10 (range: 1–9.66), while the system scored videos from 1 to 9.46, with an average of 5.08. The mean absolute error between system and surgeon scores was 0.56, with a standard deviation of 0.50, achieving agreement ranging from [0.96,0.98] with 96.7% confidence (ICC = 0.967). This system provides a standardized method to evaluate intraoperative bleeding, enabling the precise detection of blood variations and supporting advanced technologies like autonomous arthropumps to enhance arthroscopy and surgical outcomes.
Effect of a Compression Ratio Increase and High-Flow-Rate Injection on the Combustion Characteristics of an Ammonia Direct Injection Spark-Ignited Engine
Authors: Park Cheolwoong , Jang Ilpum , Lee Jeongwoo , Kim Minki , Park Chansoo , Kim Yongrae , Choi Young
Published: January 2025

Despite efforts to use ammonia as a fuel, there remain problems with low combustion speeds and high unburned ammonia (NH3) emissions. Therefore, methods to compensate for slow combustion speeds and stabilize combustion have been studied. This study aims to analyze how increasing the compression ratio affects engine performance to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce unburned emissions in a high-pressure ammonia direct injection spark-ignited engine. In addition, by applying a high-flow-rate (HFR) injector, an improvement in the combustion of ammonia fuel and exhaust gas emissions is observed through changes in the air–fuel mixture formation of high-pressure directly injected ammonia fuel. Compared with the existing compression ratio, the incomplete combustion loss due to unburned NH3 increases significantly, and the thermal efficiency does not increase under an increased compression ratio. When HFR injectors are applied with an increase in the compression ratio, the net work increases by 4.7%, as incomplete combustion and energy losses of fuel are reduced by reducing the amount of unburned NH3.
Dynamic Characteristics of Bidirectional Misaligned Marine Water-Lubricated Bearings Considering Turbulence, Surface Roughness and Bush Deformation
Authors: Chen Ziqi , Wang Ji , Li Rui , Liu Yujun
Published: January 2025

The marine water-lubricated bearing’s (WLBs) dynamic properties are essential for ensuring the shaft system’s operational dependability. The coupled model of mixed lubrication and turbulence under the impact of bidirectional misalignment is proposed in this research, and the perturbation equations of marine WLBs with 32 coefficients are derived. The finite difference method (FDM) is used to solve the steady-state and perturbation equations, and the impacts of turbulence, bearing bush deformation, surface roughness, and bidirectional shaft misalignment on the dynamic characteristics of the WLBs are systematically investigated. The results reveal that under mixed lubrication, surface roughness and the turbulence effect can both greatly improve the stiffness and damping of the bearings, but that there is a threshold phenomenon for the turbulence effect’s influence on these properties. Neglecting the elastic deformation of the bush may lead to an overestimation of the bearings’ stiffness and damping, causing substantial inaccuracies in conditions of heavy load or declined Young’s modulus. The 32 coefficients of the WLB exhibit considerable variation with the misalignment angle; hence, a more comprehensive dynamic model should be developed for misaligned marine WLBs. The study’s findings provide valuable insights for rotor dynamics research and optimal design of lubrication performance in marine WLBs.
Enhanced MILP Approach for Long-Term Multi-Vessel Maritime Inventory Routing with Application to Antarctic Logistics
Authors: Cifuentes-Lobos Dagoberto , Pradenas Lorena , Parada Victor
Published: January 2025

The maritime inventory routing problem (MIRP) integrates vessel routing and inventory management over a planning horizon to optimize logistical operations in marine environments. While existing models predominantly address short-term planning with single vessels, this research advances the field by presenting a tightened mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model designed for long-term planning with multiple vessels. The proposed model leverages an improved mathematical formulation and state-of-the-art optimization solvers to enhance computational performance. To demonstrate its applicability, the model was evaluated using benchmark instances from the literature and new instances derived from the logistics of Chilean scientific bases in Antarctica, a challenging and underexplored maritime environment. The results show computational time reductions of up to 98% for small to medium-sized instances, achieved through the incorporation of valid inequalities into the model and the use of advanced hardware and solvers. For larger instances, optimal or near-optimal solutions were achieved within one hour for a planning horizon of 60 time units, with optimality gaps below 24.7% for a 120-time-unit horizon. These findings highlight the potential of the model to support decision-making in complex maritime logistics scenarios, extending its application to long-term, multi-vessel operations in remote and environmentally sensitive regions. The proposed framework provides a valuable tool for enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of maritime logistics systems.
The Endoplasmic Reticulum Membrane Protein Complex Is Important for Deoxynivalenol Production and the Virulence of Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Chen Lei , Liu Yaxian , Wang Yu , Zhang Yaxin , Wang Saisai , Zhang Liyuan , Lu Kai , Chen Xiaochen , Dong Hansong , Zou Shenshen
Published: January 2025

Fusarium graminearum is recognized as the pathogen responsible for wheat head blight. It produces deoxynivalenol (DON) during infection, which endangers human health. DON biosynthesis occurs within toxisomes in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In eukaryotes, the ER membrane protein complex (EMC) is critical for the ER’s normal operation. However, the specific role of the EMC in F. graminearum remains poorly understood. In this study, six EMC subunits (FgEmc1-6) were identified in F. graminearum, and all of them were localized to the toxisomes. Our results demonstrate that the EMC is indispensable for vegetative growth and asexual and sexual reproduction, which are the fundamental life processes of F. graminearum. Importantly, EMC deletion led to reduced virulence in wheat spikes and petioles. Further investigation revealed that in ΔFgemc1-6, the expression of trichothecene (TRI) genes is decreased, the biosynthesis of lipid droplets (LDs) is diminished, toxisome formation is impaired, and DON production is reduced. Additionally, defects in the formation of the infection cushion were observed in ΔFgemc1-6. In conclusion, the EMC is involved in regulating growth and virulence in F. graminearum. This study enhances our understanding of the EMC functions in F. graminearum and offers valuable insights into potential targets for managing wheat head blight.
Precision Oncology in Clinical Practice: Two Years of Comprehensive Genomic Profiling in Croatia
Authors: Čerina Pavlinović Dora , Šuto Pavičić Jelena , Njavro Antonela , Librenjak Nikša , Tomaš Ilijan , Šeparović Robert , Pleština Stjepko , Bajić Žarko , Dedić Plavetić Natalija , Vrdoljak Eduard
Published: January 2025

Background: The widespread adoption of precision medicine in routine cancer care remains a critical challenge, even as advanced technologies expand and personalized therapies demonstrate remarkable success in certain cancer types. While breakthrough innovations in targeted treatments have revolutionized outcomes for specific cancers, translating these scientific advances into standard clinical practice continues to be an evolving and complex endeavor. Croatia has a nationwide project of precision oncology through the comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) analysis. Since collecting and analyzing real-world data is crucial for clinical research and defining the value of CGP in precision oncology, we aimed to present the data from everyday clinical practice given the opportunities and challenges we faced. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study conducted at the national level in all patients whose tumor samples were subjected to CGP between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2021. Results: In total, 481 patients with CGP results were included in this study. Gastrointestinal and reproductive malignancies were the most common, accounting for 29.1% and 28.9% of all tested tumors, respectively. Specifically, colorectal tumors made up 19.1% of cases, while uterine tumors represented 11.2%. At least one clinically relevant genomic alteration was found in 76.7% of patients, with the KRAS mutation (27.2%) being the most common. During the two-year study period, 26,709 individuals lost their lives to cancer in Croatia. Combining this with the CGP selection criteria valid at the time, there was an estimated population of approximately 13,350 potentially eligible patients for the CGP analysis, meaning that only 3.6% of potentially eligible patients were tested. Conclusions: The analysis identified clinically actionable genomic alterations in approximately 80% of the evaluated patients, suggesting they could be candidates for targeted therapeutic interventions. The adoption of CGP remains limited, with estimates indicating that under 5% of metastatic cancer patients received testing in the initial two-year implementation period, despite established national insurance coverage guidelines. This low utilization rate suggests a significant gap in access to genomic testing, leaving many eligible cancer patients without the potential benefits of this diagnostic approach.
Sexual Dimorphism in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm—Insights from Clinical and Experimental Studies
Authors: Islam Zain Husain , Mei Hongzhang , Tetz Zoe , Kanchetty Rohan , Stanisic Sophia , Hoyt Nicholas , Marcum William Aaron , Johnston Campbell , Kent Eric William , Zhang Mengxue , Islam Nina , Anand Alvin , Zhang Kaijie , Yin Li , Wang Bowen
Published: January 2025

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a prevalent vascular disease with high mortality rates upon rupture. AAA features a distinct sexual dimorphism, with a prevalence three times higher in males than in females. Interestingly, females are faced with a greater risk of rupture and a worse prognosis following surgical repairs. Nevertheless, stratified approaches for managing and predicting outcomes of AAA in male and female patients remain limited, largely hindered by our incomplete understanding of the mechanisms underlying this sex dimorphism. In this article, we will summarize the recent clinical and preclinical efforts aimed at understanding the therapeutic and mechanistic implications of sex-specific factors shaping AAA.