bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control to Target of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors among Type 2 Diabetic Out-Patients: An Experience from A Tertiary Health Facility in South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Ezeude Chidiebele M , Abonyi Michael C , Onwuegbuna Arinze A , Ezeude Afoma M , Ugwueze Chidiebere V , Ikeabbah Henry E , Nwadimkpa Harriet C , Ubammadu Chukwunonso E
Published: January 2025

Background: Clusters of cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs) are very common in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) subjects, placing them at increased risk of cardiac events.

Objective: To evaluate the status of control of the CMRFs and its associations among T2DM subjects at NAUTH, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study that evaluated 228 T2DM out-patients seen at NAUTH. Relevant data were extracted with a researcher-designed study proforma and anthropometric measurements done. Biochemical tests: glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG) and fasting lipid profile (FLP) were done. Data was analysed using SPSS version 28. Categorical and continuous variables were summarized using frequencies and percentages and mean and standard deviation respectively and results presented in tables. Associations of the CMRFs were tested using Chi-square test. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: There were 114 male and female subjects with mean age and mean duration of DM of 59.35±14.82 years and 9.97 ± 7.94 years respectively. There was suboptimal control for HbA1c, FPG, abdominal and global obesity but not for systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP & DBP), total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG). Besides TG, optimal control of HbA1c was significantly associated with educational level; FBG with antihypertensive medication use; abdominal obesity with sex and use of lipid lowering medications; SBP with age, marital status and antihypertensive medications use; DBP with DM treatment and antihypertensive medications use; TC with educational level; HDL-C with sex and educational level; LDL-C with sex and type of DM treatment and finally; dyslipidaemia with sex, educational level and the use of lipid lowering medications.

Conclusion: There was suboptimal control of most of the CMRFs evaluated among the subjects. With the exception of TG, there was significant association between optimal control of the CMRFs and some of the socio-clinical determinants evaluated.
Effect of a Single Diclofenac-Ethylhyaluronate Injection on Pain and Function in Patients with Severe Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ishii Yoshinori , Noguchi Hideo , Sato Junko , Takahashi Ikuko , Toyabe Shin-ichi
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This study evaluated the efficacy of diclofenac-etalhyaluronate (DF-HA), a novel conjugate drug composed of diclofenac covalently linked to sodium hyaluronate, in patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis.

Methods: Seventy-two outpatients (86 knees) with Kellgren-Lawrence grade III and IV osteoarthritis who have not achieved satisfactory pain control with conventional treatment were recruited. Clinical and functional assessments were performed immediately before and after a single intra-articular injection of DF-HA. The efficacy of DFHA injections in improving pain using visual analogue scale score (VAS), range of motion (ROM), quadriceps strength (QS: N/kg), single-leg-stance time (SLS), and Japanese Orthopaedic Association Score (JOAS). Values presented as medians (interquartile range).

Results: Both VAS and JOAS improved significantly (p< 0.001): VAS from 6 (5, 8) to 3 (2, 5) and JOAS from 65 (59, 75) to 70 (65, 85). ROM also improved from 110° (100°, 120°) to 115° (104°, 125°) (p< 0.001). Additionally, QS increased from 4.1 (2.7) to 4.9 (3.6, 6.1) (p< 0.001) and SLS 12 (5, 52) to 21 (8, 60) (p= 0.002). Improvement rates exceeded 50% for all items. VAS had a significantly higher rate compared to all other indicators (vs. JOAS: p= 0.003, vs. ROM: p<0 .001, vs. QS: p= 0.006, vs. SLS: p= 0.001).

Conclusions: DF-HA demonstrated a rapid and significant reduction in pain, improved knee joint function, and led to significant improvements in JOAS in over half of patients with advanced osteoarthritis. However, further longitudinal studies are needed to identify appropriate patient subgroups and optimize the use of repeated injections.
Compressive Bronchogenic Cyst: A Case Report From The Festoc Center In Bamako
Authors: BI Diarra , M Doumbia , M Touré , F Keita , B Coulibaly , A Keita , AB Touré , S Daffe , A Sidibé , O Doucouré , BM Coulibaly , M Cissé , K Traoré , S Traoré , B Diallo , SS Koita , B Togola , S Togo , MA Ouattara , S Yena , G Fernandez , B Nadjeeboulah , E Flecher , T Langanay , C Amerin , L Boutin , A Deloche
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Bronchogenic cysts are congenital malformations of the homoplastic dysembryoma type, producing cavities lined with bronchial epithelium and containing air and/or mucoid material. Their location may be mediastinal (30-40% of cases) or intrapulmonary (60-70% of cases) [1]. Infection is one of the most frequent complications of these cysts. Infection may be secondary to common germs, and association with pulmonary tuberculosis is exceptional.

Observation: This 49-year-old patient was admitted to our department with an 08-month history of paroxysmal cough, mild dyspnoea on exertion and chest pain. Cardiovascular risk factors included smoking (45 pack-years), which had been weaned for 1 year.

The physical examination on admission was unremarkable. Tuberculosis workup, including sputum Genexpert and tuberculin intradermal reaction, was normal. Chest X-ray revealed a well-limited, round, homogeneous hydric opacity measuring 5cm long on the left paracardiac axis. Cardiac ultrasound revealed a left retroventricular mass partially limiting ventricular contractions.

A thoracic CT scan revealed a well-limited proximal liquid mass with poly-lobed contours, hypodense and non-enhanced after intravenous injection of contrast medium. The mass was biopsied and removed by left posterolateral thoracotomy. Postoperative management was straightforward.

Anatomopathological study of the surgical specimen revealed a cystic formation lined by a respiratory-type lining in the process of necrosis. This was fibrosis with foci of cartilage and lymphoid tissue. Overall, the histological appearance was consistent with a brochogenic cyst.

Conclusion: Bronchogenic cysts are rare congenital malformations, which can remain asymptomatic for a long time. The main complications are compression of mediastinal organs, superinfection, intracystic haemorrhage or, exceptionally, malignant degeneration. Surgery remains the best therapeutic option.
Nanopolymer-Mediated Targeting Cancer with M1 Macrophage Polarizing Factors: A Unique Strategy to Fight against Cancer
Authors: Chakraborty Ashok , Diwan Anil
Published: January 2025

Macrophages are abundantly present, approx. 1010 cells, in almost all tissues of humans. They mainly function as phagocytic cells to make the human body disease-free from any eternal pathogens. The main two types of macrophages, M1 and M2 are known, of which M1 macrophages produces toxic NO, citrulline, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and other pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-12, IL- 23. M1 type while known as pro-inflammatory and also for their microbicidal and tumoricidal activities, the other type, M2 macrophages, are found to be antiinflammatory but tumor-promoting, one.

The unique features of M1 and M2 macrophages either as a tumoricidal or as a tumor promoting could be interested as a mechanism of tumor therapy, in future. Here, we review the strategies to exploit macrophages as therapeutic tools and targets in cancer therapy. In particular, the role of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in cancer therapy will be focused.
Characteristics and Therapeutic Approaches to Infantile Hemangioma: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Terzi Ozlem , Alkhabbaz Rawan
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Infantile hemangiomas are the most common benign vascular tumors in childhood.

Materials and Methods: We report our experience with 170 patients with IHs.

Results: The median age was 6 months and the male/female ratio was 58:112. 81% of the IHs were single site and the most common site was the head and neck region. Median follow-up was 6 months (1-11 months). 98 of our patients were treated with oral propranolol and 43 of them showed visible improvement (>30% reduction). Complications such as bleeding and/or ulceration were seen in 9 of the patients, oral propranolol was successful in complicated IHs.

Conclusion: Most IHs resolve spontaneously, but complications may occur. Propranolol alone is an effective treatment option for both IH and complications.
High-Grade Metastatic Prostate Cancer in a 37-Year-Old Man: A Case Report
Authors: Tambe Joshua , Mosse Wilfried , Onana Yannick , Mobit Paul , Zeh Odile
Published: January 2025

Prostate cancer is a significant public health problem with African ancestry and increasing age being significant risk and prognostic factors. Quite rare before the age of 40 years, challenges of prostate cancer at this age group includes disease detection at advanced stage and a poor relative 5-year survival. We describe a case of high-grade prostate cancer in a male under 40 years old with metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, and highlight the need for thorough investigation of urinary and erectile symptoms at this age. We further advocate for increased primordial and primary prevention strategies in the fight against cancers.
Clinical, Radiologic, and Pathologic Findings in Eight Cases of Primary Pulmonary Synovial Sarcoma with Rare SS18/SSX Translocation Fusion Type 4
Authors: H Hartel Paul , E Parker John
Published: January 2025

Pulmonary synovial sarcoma is a rare tumor with characteristic SS18/SSX translocation. Fusion products comprising this translocation are predominantly types 1 or 2 with only rare cases of fusion types 3 or 4. We evaluated eight cases of primary synovial sarcoma with SS18/SSX fusion type 4 to better define this rarely studied cohort of patients. We found patients with tumours showing SS18/SSX fusion type 4 are younger than those with fusion type 1 or 2 and showed cases of overall survival of nearly 10 years. Radiologically, in contrast to soft tissue synovial sarcoma, calcification, high vascularity, bone or chest wall invasion was not seen. Histology unusual in pulmonary synovial sarcoma was found in 63% of fusion type 4 cases compared with 21% in reported cases of fusion type 1 and 2. Although fusion type 4 is a rare finding in an already rare tumour, and while additional cases are needed, SS18/SSX fusion type 4 may impart unique clinical and histologic characteristics.
Radiographic Cardiomegalia in Adults at the Kati Hospital-University Center
Authors: Siaka Diakité , Ousmane Traore , Mansa Sidibe Drissa , Ilias Guindo , Mamadou N’Diaye , Ouncoumba Diarra , Issa Cisse , M Dembele , Salia Coulibaly , Doh Diabaté Issoufou , Youssouf Camara , Soukho Kaya Assétou , Diaman Keita Adama
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Cardiomegaly is defined as a pathological increase in cardiac volume. The cardiothoracic index is a simple parameter to assess the size of the heart on the frontal chest radiograph. The aim of our work was to study radiographic cardiomegaly in adults at Kati University Hospital.

Material and Methods: This was a descriptive, prospective study, which took place over a period of 11 months. All chest x-rays with cardiomegaly taken in the medical imaging department of Kati University Hospital during the study period were included in our study. These radiographs were associated with patient clinical files.

Results: The average age of our patients was 57±16.34 years. The frequency of cardiomegaly was 10.40% of chest radiographs. Cardiomegaly was isolated in 49.8% of cases. Dyspnea alone or associated with other signs represented 58.2% of the reasons for consultation. The ICT between [0.56-0.6] was in the majority with 29.1% of cases. Hypertension represented the most common risk factor with 46% of cases.

Conclusion: The cardiothoracic index is a simple parameter to evaluate the size of the heart on chest radiography. The frequency of radiographic cardiomegaly was 10.4% of chest radiographs.
Papillary Edema Revealing Meningioma on Computed Tomography in Bamako: A Case Report
Authors: Ousmane Traore , Mamadou N’Diaye , Mamadou Dembéle , Siaka Diakité , Mansa Sidibe Drissa , Abdoulaye Diawara , Issa Cissé , Alassane Kouma , Ouncoumba Diarra , Diaman Keita Adama
Published: January 2025

Meningioma is an extracerebral tumor that develops from the tissues covering the brain and not from the brain parenchyma itself. It is less rare and represents 15% of all intracranial tumors. Its discovery by ophthalmological signs is not as described in the literature. We report the case of an observation of a 45-year-old female subject, referred to the radiology department for an orbito-cerebral CT scan in a context of bilateral papillary pallor. The CT scan made it possible to make the positive diagnosis of the sellar region meningioma discovered incidentally. CT scan remains the important examination in the diagnostic management of meningioma and its extension assessment.
Preproendothelin mRNA Expression, Especially After Allergen Exposure in the Epithelium of the Human Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Matsunobu Takeshi , Okubo Kimihiro , Gotoh Minoru , Pawankar Ruby , Mullol Joaquim
Published: January 2025

It is known that pre-proendothelin (pre-proET) is a precursor of ET, and that first it is locally broken down to bigET-1 and further becomes ET-1 by means of endothelin converting enzyme. Investigations of pre-proET in epithelial cells were conducted for the purpose of studying its production, existence, and role in epithelial cells. Pre-proET mRNA was expressed in the nasal mucosal epithelial cells of all normal subjects, chronic sinusitis subjects, and allergic rhinitis subjects. Expression was observed in cultured nasal mucosal epithelial cells also. In combination with previous reports, it is suggested that material is produced in the pre-proET state in the nasal mucosa epithelial cells, that this becomes ET locally, and that it is being released within the cultured supernatant or within the nasal discharge. Furthermore, pre-proET mRNA expression was enhanced in the nasal mucosa epithelial layers as a result of antigen induction reactions as a result of house dust perennial nasal allergies. The degree of this enhancement correlated to the degree of antigen induction reaction. It was thought that pre-proET increased in response to antigen exposure in allergic nasal mucosa, and that it was modifying the allergic reaction. Investigation of the mechanism of pre-proET expression enhancement is needed in the future.
About the Application Possibilities of Ayurvedic Body Constitution Analysis in the Sports Selection
Authors: János Soponyai , Gabriella Hegyi
Published: January 2025

In the process of selecting a type of sport, experts consider numerous factors, including an individual's physical attributes, endurance, coordination skills, and psychological inclinations towards regarding a particular type of a sport. One key element of the millennia-spanning Ayurvedic medicine is determining the basic body constitution, whose relevance and benefits extend beyond generations, various lifestyles, health conditions, and the competencies related to contemporary methods of sport selection. Each individual examined presents a unique, complex combination that includes characteristics of the body, metabolism, emotional tendencies, and many other factors determining their constitution. The purpose of this study is to present the possibilities inherent in the application of Ayurvedic body constitution analysis in the context of sport selection. Accurate determination of an individual's unique constitution enables those facing sport selection to choose a sport that most harmonizes with their physical and mental attributes, endurance, thereby maximizing the chances of success and minimizing the risk of later failures and injuries, as well as the waste of time and financial resources invested in development
Propeller Flaps in Reconstruction of Tissue Defects Around Knee
Authors: Yavari Ali , Delavari Changiz , Etemad Omid , Molaei Hojjat
Published: January 2025

Background: Soft tissue defects around knee joint are challenging for every surgeon. Due to varied causes of injury and peripheral crashed tissues, proper options to overcome catastrophe of exposed bone or implants, seems to be limited. Though, free tissue transfer is ideal, but availability of suitable recipient vessel is crucial. In such cases, perforator flaps are glooming.

Case Presentation: 2 severely injured lower limb patients were admitted. They underwent several orthopedic surgeries and wound care treatments without improvements. Plans were propeller perforator anterolateral and anteromedial flaps. Nourishing vessels detected by hand hold doppler and flaps raised successfully and covered the defects.

Conclusion: Nowadays, propeller flaps are well-known and lower limb is the right place to use such flaps to salvage more crashed limbs and exposed bones.
A Short Review and Hypothesis: Does Vitamin D's Protective Role Against Ischemic Stroke a Consequence of Its Negative Connection to Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Levels?
Authors: Gelbard Amos
Published: January 2025

A short hypothesis that connects the dots regarding the Vitamin D – PTH hormone cycle and its impact on Ischemic Stroke. This review will bring evidence of a negative correlation between Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone levels and suggest that this correlation is the reason for the hazardous relationship between lacking vitamin D levels and the formation of aneurysm and stroke. This connection between Vitamin D and Ischemic Stroke should be thoroughly examined for a possible therapeutic effect of vitamin D supplementation while the Vitamin D-PTH hormone negative correlation should be further studied for its possible involvement in stroke but also in other bodily hazards stemming from insufficient Vitamin D levels.
Differences in immune cells and gene expression in human milk by parity on integrated scRNA sequencing
Authors: Yi Dae Yong , Park Hong-Jai , Shin Min Sun , Kim Hyoungsu , Lee Sang Jin , Kang Insoo
Published: January 2025

Background: Human breast milk (HBM) is an important source of tolerogenic immune mediators that influence the infant immune system. HBM-derived immune components are affected by various factors; however, few studies have examined the relationship between parity and immune cell profiles of HBM.Purpose: This study aimed to clarify the effects of parity on HBM immune cell heterogeneity and gene expression by integrating and analyzing publicly available single-cell RNAsequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets.Methods: We clarified the effects of parity on HBM immune cell heterogeneity and gene expression by integrating and analyzing publicly available scRNA-seq datasets.Results: The proportion of innate immune cells was significantly higher in the primiparous versus multiparous group, whereas the proportion of adaptive immune cells was significantly higher in the multiparous group (P=0.021). The 2 immune clusters were reannotated and classified into monocyte, T/B cell, and CD45¯ groups. The proportions of monocytes and T/B cells were higher in the primiparous and multiparous groups, respectively. In a gene set enrichment analysis of monocytes, genes with a direct role in the infant immune system and immune response-related genes were more highly expressed in the primiparous group.Conclusion: Our results support the parity-dependent differences in gene expression between innate and adaptive immune cells.
Clinical Outcome after Cellular Therapies in Children with Acute Leukemia
Authors:   , Dekker Linde
Published: January 2025

Immunotherapy has significantly improved overall survival of pediatric patients with acute leukemia. Nevertheless, procedure-related life-threatening complications, together with relapsed disease, hamper the life-saving effect of immunotherapy and highlight the need for improvement. The goal of this thesis was to investigate potential enhancements for two currently applied immunotherapies in clinical care, thereby aiming to improve clinical outcome in pediatric patients with acute leukemia. These two therapies include allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy. This thesis shows that immunosuppressive therapies influence the recovery of the immune system and that individualized dosing strategies can be crucial for improving clinical outcome. Furthermore, the identification of risk factors for therapy failure or for the onset of life-threatening complications are essential for the development and implementation of preventative measures and adjusted or alternative treatment options. The data presented in this thesis thereby contribute to further optimization of cellular therapies to eventually improve clinical outcome of pediatric patients with acute leukemia.
Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Visual Auditory Kinesthetik (VAK) dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa pada Mata Pelajaran Agama Kristen di Talitakum Medan
Authors: Purba Yunika Sari , Munthe Bangun , Bangun Bangun
Published: January 2025

The aim of this research is to see the role of Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic Learning Models in Improving Student Learning Outcomes in Class VIII Christian Religious Education Subjects at Talitakum Private Middle School, Medan. This type of research is classroom action research with the research population being all class VIII students at Talitakum Private Middle School, Medan. Where in this research used cycle I and cycle II. Qualitative and quantitative descriptive data analysis techniques were used in this research. Analyzing qualitative data involves looking at what teachers and students do when they learn. The learning results of cycles I and II are then used to compile student learning outcomes in the sub-theme "Living with Faith and Hope" using the Visual Auditory Kinesthetic (VAK) learning model. The learning results were then analyzed descriptively quantitatively to determine the average value and percentage of student learning success through the use of the VAK learning model. After conducting research, in cycle I the average post-test score was 65.8 and the overall learning outcomes for class VIII students were 46.43%. This research was continued in cycle II with a post-test average score of 83.1 and overall student learning outcomes of 82.14%. So it was concluded that there was an increase in student learning outcomes using the application of the Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic Learning Model in Class VIII Christian Religious Education Subjects at Talitakum Private Middle School, Medan. During the learning process in the experimental class, students' learning activities were observed and the final score was in the very good category..
Keywords: Visual Auditory Kinesthetik, Student Learning Outcomes
Exposição ao agrotóxico em gestantes e o risco teratogênico: Revisão Integrativa
Authors: Carvalho Fabio Luiz Oliveira de , Costa Dalmo de Moura , Souza Elvis das Neves de
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Avaliar o risco teratogênico em gestantes expostas a agrotóxicos. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa baseada em estudos coletados nas bases BVS (LILACS; MEDLINE), PUBMED (MEDLINE) e Scielo, utilizando descritores como "Teratogenesis", "Congenital Abnormalities", "Pesticides" e "Pregnancy", com foco em publicações de 2014 a 2024. Resultados: Gestantes expostas a agroquímicos, especialmente em áreas rurais, apresentam maior incidência de malformações congênitas, como hipospadia e malformações cardíacas, além de complicações como prematuridade e abortos espontâneos. Conclusão: Faz-se urgente a criação de protocolos para acompanhamento pré-natal de gestantes em risco, visando a identificação precoce de malformações congênitas.
Discovery of novel tepovirus genomes with a nucleic acid-binding protein homolog by systematic analysis of plant transcriptome data
Authors: Choi Dongjin , Park Hyerin , Baek Seungwoo , Choi Myeung Seok , Legay Sylvain , Guerriero Gea , Hausman Jean-François , Hahn Yoonsoo
Published: January 2025

Some plant RNA viruses in the family Betaflexiviridae encode a nucleic acid-binding protein (NABP) that facilitates infection by suppressing the host RNA silencing response. Previously, no members of the genus Tepovirus within this family were known to possess a NABP homolog. In this study, we identified the genome sequences of 21 novel Betaflexiviridae viruses: 17 represent new members of Tepovirus, and four may be founding members of a new genus closely related to the genus Vitivirus. Notably, five of these newly identified tepoviruses contain a NABP-like open reading frame (ORF). Sequence comparison and phylogenetic analysis of NABP homologs suggest these tepoviruses independently acquired a NABP-like ORF from diverse sources. The identification of 17 novel viruses substantially enhances our understanding of the genetic diversity within the genus Tepovirus. This study further highlights the role of recombination in the genome evolution and diversity of Betaflexiviridae.
Genomic analysis of the main epidemiological lineages of Acinetobacter baumannii in Mexico
Authors: Humberto Barrios-Camacho , Luis Lozano-Aguirre , Josefina Duran-Bedolla
Published: January 2025

Acinetobacter baumannii has emerged as a critical global health threat due to its exceptional survival skills in adverse environment and its ability to acquire antibiotic resistance, presenting significant challenges for infection treatment and control. The World Health Organization has classified carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii as a “Critical Priority” pathogen to guide research and the development of control and prevention strategies. Epidemiological surveillance methodologies provide the tools necessary for classifying A. baumannii into international clonal lineages, facilitating the analysis of molecular characteristics, global dissemination, and evolution. This study provides a detailed analysis of the molecular epidemiology of A. baumannii in Mexico, focusing on identifying the main international clonal lineages. Genomic analyses of 146 genomes, along with information from previous studies, identified 24 different sequence types according to the Oxford Scheme. The major international clone IC2 (CC208) was identified and harbors β-lactamases OXA-66, ADC-30, OXA-72, and is predicted to possess the OCL1 locus. The international clone IC5 (CC205) carries β-lactamase OXA-65, along with ADC-214 and OXA-239, with OCL10 predicted in 82.2% of the genomes. The international clone IC7 (CC229) harbors β-lactamase OXA-64, as well as ADC-174 and ADC-214, with OCL6 and OCL7 loci predicted. These international clones were identified in different periods and regions of Mexico and are likely to be widely distributed throughout the country. The analysis of each lineage reveals distinct molecular characteristics, including sequence types, capsule typing, outer core loci, and specific antibiotic resistance profiles. Understanding these features is crucial for elucidating their roles in infection dynamics, resistance mechanisms, and their impact on clinical outcomes.
Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals a serotype-specific immune response in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) infected with Streptococcus agalactiae
Authors: Appel Renan José Casarotto , Siqueira Karine Nicole , Konstantinidis Ioannis , Martins Maria Isabel Mello , Joshi Rajesh , Pretto-Giordano Lucienne Garcia , Vilas-Boas Laurival Antônio , Fernandes Jorge Manuel de Oliveira
Published: January 2025

Streptococcus agalactiae is a major causative agent of streptococcosis in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and understanding its etiology is important to ensure the sustainable development of global tilapia farming. Our research group recently observed contrasting disease patterns in animals infected with two different S. agalactiae serotypes (Ib and III). To better understand the basis for these divergent responses, we analyzed the brain transcriptome of Nile tilapia following bacterial exposure. Our findings revealed significant variation in the expression of genes involved in immune (e.g., CD209 antigen, granulin, C-X-C motif chemokine 10, prostacyclin synthase, and interleukins) and neuroendocrine (e.g., mmp13a, mmp9, brain aromatase, and pmch) pathways. The serotype Ib strain seems promptly recognized by the host, triggering a potent inflammatory response, whereas the serotype III strain elicited a less immediate response, resulting in more pronounced central nervous system (CNS) symptoms and behavioral effects. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show serotype-specific immune responses to S. agalactiae in Nile tilapia. These findings are important for advancing disease management and control strategies in aquaculture. Identifying different immune reactions triggered by serotypes Ib and III may assist the development of more specific approaches for preventive measures, early detection, and effective treatment against streptococcosis.
Exploring using HBsAg to predict interferon treatment course to achieve clinical cure in chronic hepatitis B patients: a clinical study
Authors: Yan Fei , Tang Fei , Chen Jing , Lin YiCheng , Chen XinYu , Du Qin , Yin WeiLi , Liang Jing , Liu Lei , Wang Fang , Xu BaiGuo , Ye Qing , Xiang HuiLing
Published: January 2025

Objective

Although pegylated interferon α-2b (PEG-IFN α-2b) therapy for chronic hepatitis B has received increasing attention, determining the optimal treatment course remains challenging. This research aimed to develop an efficient model for predicting interferon (IFN) treatment course.

Methods

Patients with chronic hepatitis B, undergoing PEG-IFN α-2b monotherapy or combined with NAs (Nucleoside Analogs), were recruited from January 2018 to December 2023 at Tianjin Third Central Hospital. All patients achieved hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance post-treatment.

Result

The study enrolled 176 patients with chronic hepatitis B, with the median IFN treatment course of 35.23 ± 25.22 weeks. They were randomly divided into two cohorts in a ratio of 7:3. And there were 123 patients in the training cohort and 53 patients in the validation cohort. Univariable and multivariable analyses demonstrated that baseline HBsAg, 12 weeks HBsAg and the presence of cirrhosis significantly influenced IFN treatment course, and both are risk factors (β=7.27,4.27,10.91; p<0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, HBsAg remained a significant predictor (β=6.99, 95%CI: 3.59,10.40; p<0.05), which was finally included to establish the model. The actual and predicted values in the validation cohort were highly matched, meanwhile the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root mean square error (RMSE) and accuracy (ACC) of the validation cohort were calculated. External validation also suggests that the model can be used as a tool for initial assessment.

Conclusion

Baseline HBsAg in chronic hepatitis B patients were a risk factor for prolonged IFN treatment course with a positive correlation. Ultimately, a personalized model based on baseline HBsAg levels can be established to roughly estimate the duration of interferon therapy prior to treatment initiation, thereby guiding clinical decision-making.
Insights into cetacean sightings, abundance, and feeding associations: observations from the boat lift net fishery in the Kaimana important marine mammal area, Indonesia
Authors: Putra Mochamad Iqbal Herwata , Malaiholo Yance , Sahri Achmad , Setyawan Edy , Herandarudewi Sekar M. C. , Hasan Abdy W. , Prasetio Hanggar , Hidayat Nur Ismu , Erdmann Mark V.
Published: January 2025

A comprehensive understanding of cetacean ecology is crucial for conservation and management. In 2018, Kaimana was identified as an Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) due to the regular presence of feeding aggregations of Australian humpback dolphins (Sousa sahulensis), Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) and Bryde's whales (Balaenoptera edeni). Despite this, information on cetacean ecology in the Kaimana region is currently lacking. Notably, no cetacean surveys have been undertaken in Kaimana since it was officially recognized as an IMMA. We monitored food-provisioning interactions between lift-net fisheries and cetaceans from May 2021 to March 2023 to examine cetacean sightings, abundance and feeding associations. Five species were positively identified, including a new record of Killer whales (Orcinus orca). Our findings suggest a strong association between T. aduncus and lift-net fisheries, where they have been observed feeding on anchovies from outside the net in the morning. While other species were also observed, their presence was less frequent. Furthermore, year-round sightings of S. sahulensis, B. edeni, and T. aduncus during the study period indicate that these species are resident in this region. Our results suggest that Kaimana fulfills a second IMMA sub-criterion (small and resident populations of these three species) that was not previously noted in the original IMMA assessment.
A fishy gut feeling – current knowledge on gut microbiota in teleosts
Authors: Tolas Ingvill , Zhou Zhigang , Zhang Zhen , Teame Tsegay , Olsen Rolf Erik , Ringø Einar , Rønnestad Ivar
Published: January 2025

The importance of the gastrointestinal microbiota (GM) in health and disease is widely recognized. Although less is known in fish than in mammals, advances in molecular techniques, such as 16S rRNA sequencing, have facilitated characterization of fish GM, comprising resident autochthonous and transient allochthonous bacteria. The microbial diversity and composition are strongly influenced by diet. High-protein diets, including alternative ingredients like plant and insect proteins, modify GM, impacting beneficial bacteria e.g. Cetobacterium. Lipids affect microbial metabolism and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, while excessive carbohydrates can disrupt GM balance, causing enteritis. Dietary additives, including probiotics, prebiotics, and antibiotics, effectively modulate GM. Probiotics enhance immunity and growth, prebiotics support beneficial bacteria, and antibiotics, though effective against pathogens, disrupt microbial diversity and may promote antibiotic resistance. Environmental factors, such as temperature, salinity, and pollution, significantly influence GM. Elevated temperatures and salinity shifts alter microbial composition, and pollutants introduce toxins that compromise intestinal function and microbial diversity. Stress and pathogen infections further destabilize GM, often favoring pathogenic bacteria. GM communicates with the host via metabolites such as SCFAs, bile acids, and neurotransmitters, regulating appetite, energy metabolism, immunity, and neural functions. Additionally, GM influences the immune system by interacting with epithelial cells and stimulating immune responses. Despite recent advances, further research is needed to elucidate species-specific mechanisms underlying GM-host interactions, the ecological implications of GM diversity, and its applications in aquaculture to optimize fish health and performance.
Effects of the tobacco–maize relay intercropping pattern on soil nutrients and soil microbial diversity
Authors: Yang Kang , Zi Shuhui , Ouyang Chengren
Published: January 2025

The imbalanced soil nutrient status caused by the long-term monoculture of flue-cured tobacco are a concern. The tobacco–maize relay intercropping, widely used in Yunnan, may improve soil nutrients by enhancing the soil microbial community, but this remains unexplored. This study employed high-throughput sequencing technology to examine soil microbial diversity under tobacco monoculture and tobacco–maize relay intercropping, using the varieties Hongda and K326, respectively. The results indicated that tobacco–maize relay intercropping significantly enhanced root biomass compared to tobacco monoculture, with no significant effect on aboveground biomass. This intercropping treatment also significantly improved soil physicochemical properties, including soil pH, total phosphorus, available phosphorus, and available potassium, which was associated with an increase in the soil microbial community (as indicated by the Chao1 and Shannon indices). Specifically, the abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Nitrospira, and Acidobacteria increased, but the abundance of Chloroflexi decreased. Therefore, these findings suggest that tobacco-maize relay intercropping can improve soil physicochemical properties and enhance soil nutrient supply.
Effects of biological and abiotic factors on dark septate endophytes distribution and heavy metal resistance in different environments
Authors: Wang Zhenzhou , Shi Wenyi , Chen Xiuling , Lin Yuli , Chen Wenjing , Yao Li , Sun Xiang , Li Xia , He Xueli
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Exploring the interactions between dark septate endophytes (DSE) in plant roots across diverse heavy metal habitats—considering host plants, site characteristics, and microbial communities—provides insights into the distribution patterns of DSE in metal-rich environments and their mechanisms for developing heavy metal resistance.

Methods

This study collected samples of three common plant species (Phragmites australis, PA, Setaria viridis, SV, and Artemisia annua, AA) and their corresponding soil samples from three heavy metal-contaminated sites: Baiyang Lake, BY, Fengfeng mining area, FF, and Huangdao, HD. Utilizing high-throughput sequencing and physicochemical analysis methods, the biological and abiotic factors affecting DSE colonization and distribution in the roots were investigated.

Results

Twenty-two DSE species were isolated and identified with 11 species found in BY, 8 species in FF, and 11 species in HD. The screening for heavy metal resistance discovered 10 heavy metal-tolerant DSE species. Soil available phosphate, available nitrogen, and Cd contents, as well as the composition of different root fungal communities, influence the resistance and distribution of heavy metal-tolerant DSE. Notably, 12 DSE species, including Paraphoma radicina and Paraphoma chrysanthemicola, were reported for the first time in heavy metal habitats. The colonization rates of DSE in the roots of PA (96%) and AA (76%) were highest in BY, while the highest colonization rate in the roots of SV was observed in HD (94%). Site-specific soil parameters, such as available K, organic contents, Zn, and Cd contents from different sites are the main determinants affecting DSE colonization. Meanwhile, the diversity and richness of other root-associated endophytic fungi, which varied considerably across sites, served as significant biological factors influencing DSE distribution and colonization.

Discussion

The results of this study provide a strong theoretical framework for the effective utilization of DSE fungi to mitigate soil heavy metal pollution.
Survival analysis of a 16-year cohort of follicular lymphoma patients receiving systemic treatment in Brazil
Authors: Azevedo Pamela Santos , Zuppo Laper Isabella , Oliveira Deborah Marta do Santos , Sabino Adriano de Paula , Garcia Marina Morgado , Freitas Isabela Cristina Menezes de , Prata Wallace Mateus , Cherchiglia Mariângela Leal , Álvares-Teodoro Juliana , Acurcio Francisco de Assis , Júnior Augusto Afonso Guerra
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is incurable but often follows an indolent course. While survival is improving thanks to advances in diagnosis, supportive care, and new therapies, understanding outcomes and their impact on overall survival is still limited. There are few studies on FL in Brazil, so this study aims to evaluate the patient’s profile, morbidity and mortality treated by the Brazilian national health service (SUS) and evaluate risk factors associated with treatment failure.

Methods

This is a nationwide 16 years cohort with patients that underwent chemotherapy in the SUS (2000–2015). The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival until treatment failure, and the Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate risk factors.

Results

The cohort included 10,009 patients and survival rates were 73.3%, 45.3%, and 30.7% for the first, fifth and 10th year respectively. The median overall survival was approximately 4.1 years. The most used regimen was CHOP (13%), followed by CVP (9.7%) and R-CHOP (3.3%). Four hundred and ninety-eight patients (4.9%) used rituximab-containing regimens. Univariate analysis indicated worse survival rates for male patients, those over 65 years of age, clinical stage III or IV and those using non-rituximab-containing regimens. The health technology performance assessment related to oncology schemes for FL suggests that rituximab-based regimens has shown best survival probability (0.52 CI 0.39–0.69) in 78 months of follow up with a HR 1.5 times better than other schemes (HR 0.67; CI 0.55–0.81).

Discussion

In light of the substantial advancements achieved by the SUS, there is a need for CONITEC to expedite decision-making processes in order to enhance patients access to new oncology drugs. This should be done while upholding health technology assessment standards. Timely integration and sufficient funding for oncology services have the potential to save lives, especially when compared to the treatments available within SUS at that time.
Targeting the initiator to activate both ferroptosis and cuproptosis for breast cancer treatment: progress and possibility for clinical application
Authors: Imam Murshid , Ji Jiale , Zhang Zhijie , Yan Shunchao
Published: January 2025

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Metal metabolism is pivotal for regulating cell fate and drug sensitivity in breast cancer. Iron and copper are essential metal ions critical for maintaining cellular function. The accumulation of iron and copper ions triggers distinct cell death pathways, known as ferroptosis and cuproptosis, respectively. Ferroptosis is characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, while cuproptosis involves copper-induced oxidative stress. They are increasingly recognized as promising targets for the development of anticancer drugs. Recently, compelling evidence demonstrated that the interplay between ferroptosis and cuproptosis plays a crucial role in regulating breast cancer progression. This review elucidates the converging pathways of ferroptosis and cuproptosis in breast cancer. Moreover, we examined the value of genes associated with ferroptosis and cuproptosis in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, mainly outlining the potential for a co-targeting approach. Lastly, we delve into the current challenges and limitations of this strategy. In general, this review offers an overview of the interaction between ferroptosis and cuproptosis in breast cancer, offering valuable perspectives for further research and clinical treatment.
Research on Predefined Time Sliding Mode Control Method for High-Speed Maglev Train Based on Finite Time Disturbance Observer
Authors: Ji Jinsong , Jiang Ping
Published: January 2025

In order to improve the operation control performance of high-speed maglev trains, an improved finite-time rotor magnetic Field-Oriented Control method was proposed in this paper. Aiming at the stator current control problem of long-stator linear synchronous motors under parametric perturbation, this paper investigates the double-feeding mode, combines the predefined-time stability theory and designs an improved sliding mode controller to optimise the dynamic characteristics of the inner-loop system. In the outer-loop cruise control, the predefined-time sliding mode control is combined with a finite-time disturbance observer, which effectively solves the problems of inaccurate modelling and parameter ingestion. It was verified through simulation and analysis that the control strategy has significant advantages in improving the dynamic tracking performance and anti-interference ability, with the stator current stabilisation time within 0.1 s, the absolute value of the fluctuation error within 20 A, the outer-loop response time within 0.5 s, the maximum speed error within 0.0005 m/s and the maximum displacement error within 0.0005 m. The control strategy has the advantages of improving the dynamic tracking performance and anti-interference ability.
Optimization of Fused Deposition Modeling Parameters for Mechanical Properties of Polylactic Acid Parts Based on Kriging and Cuckoo Search
Authors: Yang Yuan , Wang Yiyang , Xue Bowen , Wang Changxu , Yang Bo
Published: January 2025

As an emerging rapid manufacturing technology, 3D printing has been widely applied in numerous fields such as aerospace, shipbuilding, and wind power, by virtue of its advantage in efficiently fabricating components with complex structures and integrated functions. In response to the problems of poor mechanical properties and difficulty in selecting process parameters for fused deposition modeling (FDM), this paper analyzed the principle of FDM and proposed a parameter optimization method based on a Kriging and Cuckoo Search (CS) algorithm aimed at improving the mechanical properties of 3D printed polylactic acid (PLA) parts. Firstly, by analyzing FDM principle and its main parameters, printing speed and temperature were selected as research elements, and tensile strength as the mechanical performance index. Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) was integrated to generate a limited experimental sample set. Secondly, a Kriging-based prediction model for mechanical properties was constructed by learning sample data, and the nonlinear mapping relationship between process parameters and tensile strength was obtained. Then, using the combinations of speed and temperature as design variables and maximizing tensile strength as the optimization objective, an optimization model was established, and the optimal process parameters were searched by CS. The optimal printing velocity was 31 mm/s and printing temperature was 225 °C, and the corresponding maximum tensile strength was 38.27 MPa. Finally, compared to the test data, the relative prediction error of Kriging model was 0.62%, and the optimal strength (38.27 MPa) increased by about 12.7% compared to the average value (33.97 MPa) of experimental data. It can be seen that the Kriging model is effective, and the tensile strength of parts printed under the optimal process parameters is significantly improved.
Stubble Management Plays a Greater Role than Tillage Practice in Shaping Soil Microbiome Structure and Function
Authors: Xu Chang , Toh Ruey , Li Jishun , Zhou Yi , Denton Matthew D.
Published: January 2025

Tillage and stubble management play crucial roles in conservation agriculture, exerting a considerable influence on soil properties. This study aims to focus on the gaps in our understanding of how tillage and stubble management interact to affect the taxonomic and functional structure of the soil microbiome. Soil samples were collected from a long-term field trial implementing no tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT) with stubble retention and removal. Metagenomic sequencing facilitated the assembly of a gene catalog comprising 4.36 billion non-redundant genes. Stubble management markedly altered both the taxonomic and functional composition of the prokaryotic community, the addition of stubble caused a significant increase in Proteobacteria, but a decrease in Chloroflexi compared with no stubble. The key prokaryotic species and gene functions contributing most to the dissimilarity of the prokaryotic communities between the treatments with and without stubble were identified, including Rhodospirillum sp. Stubble retention increased the availability of carbon resources in the soil, resulting in a higher proportion of genes functional for metabolic activity and plant–pathogen interactions. However, tillage practice did not influence the structure or diversity of the soil prokaryote community. Our findings identify the target microbial species for future isolation, enabling the development of eco-friendly biofertilizers to promote sustainable agriculture.