bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of Ultra-processed Food Consumption with Nutritional Status and Blood Pressure in Adolescents
Authors: Khuzaimah Anna , Indriyani Prima Ruttu  , Nurhaedar Jafar
Published: February 2025

Adolescents are nutritionally vulnerable, and their intake is crucial to avoid nutritional problems during growth. Adolescent food consumption can be obtained from various types of food, one of them ultra-processed food (UPF). This study aims to determine the relationship between ultra-processed food consumption patterns and nutritional status and blood pressure in Catholic Junior High School Sudiang adolescents and Christian Elim High School Makassar. Methods: This study is a quantitative descriptive study with a cross-sectional design. The sample was selected using a proportional random sampling technique of 195 adolescents aged 13-18. UPF consumption was collected using the Semi Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ). The research results show adolescents are overweight at 25.6% and obese at 21%; elevated blood pressure (BP) is 14.4%, and state hypertension (HTN) is 8.2%. In addition, obese adolescents with state 1 HTN were 17.1% and elevated BP by 24.4%, while overweight adolescents with state 1 HTN were 8% and elevated BP by 14%. There is a correlation between the amount of UPF consumption and nutritional status (p-value = 0.047). At the same time, the results were negative between the frequency of UPF consumption and nutritional status (p-value = 0.312), the amount of UPF consumption and BP (p-value = 0.289), and the frequency of UPF consumption and BP (p-value = 0.059). The study concludes a significant correlation between the amount of ultra-processed food consumption and nutritional status in adolescents. Further research and public health interventions are recommended to address the impact of UPF on adolescent health.
The Tempe Juice And Yogurt's Efficacy On Pregnancy Hypertension
Authors: Yulianingsih Endah , Sujawatty Sri , Violentina Yollanda Dwi Santi , Nurfaizah Alza  , Ika Suherlin  , Rahman Suleman  , Miranie Safaringga  , Rahma Dewi Agustini
Published: February 2025

Hypertension is one of the non-communicable diseases that causes most deaths. In the last six months, there have been ten cases of hypertension in pregnant mothers in the South City Health Center. Age, genetic factors, and parity can cause hypertension in pregnant mothers. This study aims to determine whether tempe yogurt and tempe spice juice help reduce hypertension in pregnancies in the South Puskesmas Working Region. The quantitative study was conducted from April to September 2023 and used a quasi-experimental design of two groups of pretest and posttest. A purposive sampling of forty individuals was used to collect the samples. The results of the study showed that respondents in group A were over 35 years old (35%), group B was 20-35 years old (45%), and group A had a parity of between 2 and 4 years (55%), and group B had a Parity of 2 to 4 years (80%). No history of hypertension in groups A and B (75%, 70%). It can be concluded that consuming tempe yogurt and tempe spice juice regularly is shown as one way to reduce hypertension during pregnancy.
Behavior and Home Environment effect on the Air Germs Number in the Tuberculosis Patients Houses
Authors: Wanti Wanti , Singga Siprianus , Agustina Agustina , Sila Oktofianus , Irfan Irfan
Published: February 2025

The presence of germs, including Tuberculosis germs, in the house is greatly influenced by home environmental factors and TB sufferers behavior. This research aim is to determine the influence of home environmental factors and behavior on the number of air germs in the tuberculosis patients house in Kupang City. This observational research was conducted with purposive sampling in 21 homes with 21 TB patients from 86 patients from 2 Community Health Centers in Kupang City, NTT, Indonesia. The number of air germs with MPN coliform examination is measured based on laboratory examination. The independent variables are the number of people sleeping in the same room, type of walls, type of floor, ventilation conditions, wearing masks in the house, drying mattresses/pillows, place to expel phlegm, type of cooking fuel, smokers, sunlight entering the bedroom, sunlight entering the room. Going out and passive smoking. The data collected was then analyzed using multiple regression, and result in the equation: Number of Air germs = -203,614 + 59,538Ventilation Conditions + 86,333Drying MattressPillows + 63,841Smoking + 83,515Mthr Light to Room. The model shows that 61% of the number of air germs in the Tuberculosis patient's house is influenced by ventilation conditions, the habit of drying cases and pillows, the ability to smoke, and sunlight entering the rooms of Tuberculosis sufferers. This regression model is suitable for predicting the number of room air germs, where the fewer ventilation conditions, the germ number will increase, so the less frequently drying mattresses and pillows can also impact increasing the number of air germs in the homes of Tuberculosis sufferers. The number of room germs will also increase with smoking behavior and lack of direct sunlight in the bedroom.
Body-bending behaviour in three snake species in the Russian Far East
Authors: POKHILYUK NIKITA , MASLOVA IRINA
Published: February 2025

Body-bending behaviour or kinking is a cryptic form of immobility, believed to be used by snakes to avoid predation. Originally, this defensive strategy was thought to be used only by arboreal species in the Neotropics but recent reports suggest that it may be more widespread than previously thought. For the first time, data is presented on this type of behaviour for three snake species of east Asia - Elaphe dione, Elaphe schrenckii and Gloydius ussuriensis.
Is De Brigard a simulationist?
Authors: Michaelian Kourken , Álvarez Juan F. , Openshaw James
Published: February 2025

Though De Brigard is generally classified as a simulationist, the relationship of his view to the various theories that have emerged in the simulationist-causalist debate has so far been unclear. He himself seems to think that he has now made that relationship clear: he is a simulationist, but the form of simulationism that he defends “dissolves the conflict” between simulationism and causalism. In this paper, we argue, in response to his recent book and to a recent paper that further develops some of the ideas proposed therein, first, that the view that De Brigard defends does not in fact dissolve the conflict between simulationism and causalism and, second, that he in fact has yet to take a clear stand with respect to the claim that distinguishes simulationism from causalism. While our focus throughout is on De Brigard, our discussion sheds light on the nature of the relationship between simulationism and causalism in general, reveals that certain causalists have, like De Brigard, failed to take a clear stand with respect to the claim that distinguishes simulationism from causalism, and raises more general issues about the nature and future of the simulationist-causalist debate.
Molecular epidemiology of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates in Russia, 2015–2023: current trends and forecasting
Authors: Kandinov Ilya , Shaskolskiy Boris , Kravtsov Dmitry , Larkin Anatoliy , Kubanov Alexei , Shpilevaya Marina , Shagabieva Julia , Nosov Nikita , Gryadunov Dmitry
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The emergence of multidrug resistance in N. gonorrhoeae is a serious global problem, and gonorrhea may soon become an incurable disease. The aim of the study was to characterize the N. gonorrhoeae population in Russia from 2015 to 2023 and predict the potential spread of the most concerning clones.

Methods

A total of 996 N. gonorrhoeae isolates were examined during the analyzed period. Ceftriaxone and azithromycin susceptibility testing were performed using the agar dilution method. Microarray-based assays and sequencing were employed to identify the genotypes and genetic markers of antimicrobial resistance.

Results

No ceftriaxone-resistant isolates were found in Russia, however, the number of isolates with reduced susceptibility to ceftriaxone has increased to 22.6% in recent years. Since 2020, approximately 12.5% of isolates have exhibited resistance to azithromycin annually. Two clusters of isolates pose a particular threat to Russia: NG-MAST G2212, linked to MLST 1901/1902, carries a mosaic structure in the penA gene; G12302, linked to MLST 9363, contains mosaic alleles in the mtrR and mtrD genes. Additionally, two new high-risk genogroups were characterized: G18898 and G16206. Both are associated with MLST 10314 and harbor mosaic variants of penA or mtrR/mtrD. Analysis of time series data suggests that isolates with mosaic alleles are unlikely to be eradicated from the population in the near future, potentially worsening the epidemiological situation of gonorrhea in Russia.

Conclusions

The native genetic strains of N. gonorrhoeae in Russia, which are susceptible to cephalosporins and macrolides, are being progressively replaced by globally dominant lineages. To further characterize this epidemiologic shift, ongoing surveillance strategies using molecular epidemiology and the identification of genetic markers will be crucial in curbing the growth and spread of N. gonorrhoeae resistance. Such efforts are vital in ensuring the availability of effective treatments for gonococcal infection.
Time series forecasting-based Kubernetes autoscaling using Facebook Prophet and Long Short-Term Memory
Authors: Guruge Pasan Bhanu , Priyadarshana Y.H.P.P.
Published: February 2025

The advancement of cloud computing technologies has led to increased usage in application deployment in recent years. Kubernetes, a widely used container orchestration platform for deploying applications on cloud systems, provides benefits such as autoscaling to adapt to fluctuating workload while maintaining quality of service and availability. In this research, we designed and evaluated a proactive Kubernetes autoscaling using Facebook Prophet and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) hybrid model to predict the HTTP requests and calculate required pod counts based on the Monitor-Analyze-Plan-Execute loop. The proposed model not only captures seasonal data patterns effectively but also proactively predicts the pod requirements for timely and efficient resource allocation to reduce resource wastage while enhancing cloud computing applications. The proposed hybrid model was evaluated using real-world datasets from NASA and the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup to benchmark and compare with existing literature. Evaluation results indicate that the proposed novel hybrid model outperforms single-model proactive autoscaling by a maximum margin of 65–90% accuracy when compared to NASA and FIFA World Cup datasets. This study contributes to the fields of cloud computing and container orchestration by providing a refined proactive autoscaling mechanism that enhances application availability, efficient resource usage, and reduced costs and paves the way for further exploration in increased prediction speed, integrated with vertical scaling and implementations using Kubernetes.
Modeling thoracic aortic genetic variants in the zebrafish: useful for predicting clinical pathogenicity?
Authors: Prendergast Andrew , Sheppard Mary B. , Famulski Jakub K. , Nicoli Stefania , Mukherjee Sandip , Sips Patrick , Elefteriades John A.
Published: February 2025

Thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) significantly impact cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. A large subset of TAAD cases, particularly those with an earlier onset, is linked to heritable genetic defects. Despite progress in characterizing genes associated with both syndromic and non-syndromic heritable TAAD, the causative gene remains unknown in most cases. Another important bottleneck in the correct and timely diagnosis of TAAD is the large proportion of variants of unknown significance (VUS) that are routinely encountered upon medical genetic testing. Reliable functional modeling data is required to accurately identify new causal genes and to determine the pathogenicity of VUS. To address this gap, our collaborative effort—comprising teams from Yale University, University of Kentucky, and Ghent University—explores a novel approach: modeling TAAD in zebrafish. Leveraging the unique advantages of this animal model promises to allow for accelerated variant pathogenicity assessment, ultimately enhancing patient care. In this review, we critically explore the currently available zebrafish-based approaches that can be used for testing pathogenicity of genes and variants related to TAAD, and we offer an outlook on the implementation of these strategies for clinical applications.
Perspective: How complex in vitro models are addressing the challenges of predicting drug-induced liver injury
Authors: Taylor K. , Ram R. , Ewart L. , Goldring C. , Russomanno G. , Aithal G. P. , Kostrzewski T. , Bauch C. , Wilkinson J. M. , Modi S. , Kenna J. G. , Bailey J.
Published: February 2025

Predicting which drugs might have the potential to cause drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is highly complex and the current methods, 2D cell-based models and animal tests, are not sensitive enough to prevent some costly failures in clinical trials or to avoid all patient safety concerns for DILI post-market. Animal-based methods are hampered by important species differences in metabolism and adaptive immunity compared to humans and the standard 2D in vitro approaches have limited metabolic functionality and complexity. On 24 April 2023 the Alliance for Human Relevant Science (https://www.humanrelevantscience.org/) hosted a workshop at the Royal Society, London entitled Drug-Induced Liver Injury (DILI): Can Human-Focused Testing Improve Clinical Translation? The conclusion was that complex in vitro models (CIVMs) provide a significant step forward in the safety testing paradigm. This perspective article, written by the participants, builds on those discussions to provide a ‘state of play’ on liver CIVMs with recommendations for how to encourage their greater uptake by the pharmaceutical industry.
Difference analysis of shale gas-bearing property —a case study of the shale within lower Cambrian Niutitang Formation on the margin of palaeouplift
Authors: Ge Mingna , Bao Shujing , Wang Yufang , Li Haohan , Wang Ting , Liang Hongbo
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Shale gas has become an important field for increasing oil and gas reserves and production in China. The breakthrough of Cambrian shale gas in Sichuan Basin provides guidance for the exploration of shale gas in southern China. However, the Niutitang Formation shale on the periphery of Sichuan Basin exhibits multiple depositional subfacies and complex structural styles, and the factors of gas diversity are not clear.

Methods

By the methods of organic geochemistry experiment, reservoir physical property test and gas content test, combined with the hydrocarbon generation history and structural evolution history data, the gas content difference is analyzed of Hannan palaeouplift, Shennongjia palaeouplift, Huangling palaeouplift and Xuefengshan palaeouplift.

Results

The organic matter type of Niutitang Formation shale is mainly type I, the average organic carbon content is 1.50%–3.56%, the average Ro is 2.37%–3.90%, the brittle minerals are mainly quartz that the content is 28%–53%, and the average porosity is 0.51%–3.34%. The pores contain organic pores, inorganic pores and micro-fractures, and the fractures are mostly filled with calcite. Gas content 0.13m³/t–4.19m³/t. Through comparative analysis of main controlling factors affecting gas content of shale, the causes of gas diversity of Niutitang Formation shale are identified.

Discussion

(1) the differences in preservation conditions caused by structural strength, fracture development degree and the coupling relationship with tectonic fractures are the key factors restricting the gas content of shale. (2) Early deep burial time, long deep burial time and fast deep burial are the key factors that cause the difference of thermal evolution degree of shale. (3) The difference of hydrocarbon generation potential caused by sedimentary subfacies in the same facies zone is an important factor restricting the gas generation capacity of shale. (4) The areas with the lower Plate of thrust nappe, the degree of thermal evolution is less than 3.0%, and the deepwater facies of trough are favorable directions for further exploration. This study will provides reference significance for shale gas exploration of Cambrian Niutitang Formation in the complex structural area periphery of Sichuan Basin in south China.
Watershed land use decreases the nitrogen limitation of benthic algal growth in coastal wetlands of a large oligotrophic lake
Authors: Cooper Matthew J. , Wheeler Michele C.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Identifying patterns in the primary limiting nutrients of basal trophic levels such as benthic algae can inform the prediction of potential ecological responses to anthropogenic nutrient loading. In coastal wetlands of the Laurentian Great Lakes, reduced concentrations of reactive nitrogen species such as ammonium and nitrate may limit algal growth, especially when nutrient loading is minimal. However, the response of benthic algae to macronutrient inputs remains understudied, especially in Lake Superior coastal wetlands.

Methods

We conducted nutrient amendment assays using nutrient diffusing substrate devices in 25 coastal wetlands along the southwestern shore of Lake Superior in the spring, summer, and fall. These assays allowed us to investigate seasonal and regional variation in nutrient limitation status and the relationship between nutrient limitation, in situ water quality (dissolved and total nitrogen and phosphorus, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, specific conductivity, and total suspended solids), and watershed land use.

Results

We found that nitrogen limitation was common, particularly during summer, with 60% of wetlands exhibiting this condition, while phosphorus limitation was not observed in any wetland during any season. The strongest N limitation was found in wetlands of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore where watershed land cover was almost entirely natural. Wetlands with more developed watersheds, including those of the St. Louis River Estuary, had a lower degree of N limitation (p = 0.003). Nitrogen limitation was observed in spring, summer, and fall, but was most pronounced in the summer.

Discussion

These findings suggest that N limitation predominates in these Lake Superior coastal wetlands, contrasting with the well-documented phosphorus limitation of the lake's pelagic zone. Our study also highlights the potential for anthropogenic N loading to stimulate excessive benthic algal growth in Lake Superior coastal wetlands, particularly in more developed regions. These findings are consistent with those for coastal wetlands in other regions of the Great Lakes and support the need for continued monitoring and targeted mitigation of both nitrogen and phosphorus loading to shoreline habitats of large lakes.
Visual analysis of emerging topics and trends in contrast agent extravasation research in medical imaging: a bibliometric study using CiteSpace and VOSviewer
Authors: Liu Yun , Dong Yonghai , Zhou Wenfang , Yu Juhong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study presents a visualization of the global research dynamics on contrast agent extravasation in medical imaging using a knowledge map, revealing the research directions, emerging topics, trends, and frontiers in this field.

Method

Using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software with the Web of Science Core Collection database as the data source, a bibliometric analysis was conducted on relevant studies of contrast agent extravasation in medical imaging examinations. Analysis was performed on aspects such as yearly publication volume, country/institution distribution, authorship, co-citation documents, and keywords, leading to the creation of visualizations.

Results

A total of 4,635 articles were included in the study, with the first relevant research report appearing in 1950. The yearly publication and citation volumes have shown an overall increasing trend over the years. Research in this field was predominantly concentrated in the United States, accounting for approximately one-third of the global publication output. The University of California System was the top institution in terms of publication volume. The top five high-frequency keywords were “magnetic resonance imaging,” “computed tomography,” “management,” “diagnosis,” and “contrast agent.” Cluster analysis of keywords revealed three main clusters: “contrast,” “fluorescein angiography,” and “focused ultrasound,” showing good continuity over time. The keyword burst analysis identified that “gd dtpa” had the highest burst value of 20.51. The emergence of keywords shifted over time. At present, the keywords that are still emerging are “multimodal imaging,” “case report,” and “leakage.”

Conclusion

More scholars are dedicating efforts to research on contrast agent extravasation in medical imaging. “Multimodal imaging” will be a key research focus in the foreseeable future. Contrast agent extravasation remains a substantial challenge with high research value in medical imaging.
Clinical characteristics and surgical treatment comparison of multisegmental spinal tuberculosis: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Yang Zongqiang , Gu Zhangui , Liu Qiang , Ma Long , Fei Le , Niu Ningkui , Shi Jiandang
Published: February 2025

Background

To analyze the therapeutic efficacy of intervertebral surgery in the treatment of multisegmental spinal tuberculosis (MSTB) by evaluating its clinical outcomes and perioperative indicators, thereby providing evidence-based insights to optimize surgical strategies and improve clinical decision-making.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed 134 MSTB patients treated at our hospital between January 2000 and June 2022. Based on the surgical approach, patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 75), who underwent intervertebral surgery, and Group B (n = 59), who received non-intervertebral surgery. All patients underwent radical debridement, bone graft fusion, spinal canal decompression, and internal fixation to restore spinal alignment. To compare the clinical outcomes of these two surgical approaches, we assessed perioperative parameters, radiographic outcomes, laboratory inflammatory markers, neurological recovery, and complication rates. Statistical analyses included t-tests or Mann–Whitney U tests for continuous variables and chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests for categorical variables.

Results

The mean follow-up duration was 63.24 ± 9.16 months for Group A and 64.05 ± 9.74 months for Group B. Group A demonstrated significantly shorter operative time and reduced intraoperative blood loss compared to Group B (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups regarding preoperative, 6-month postoperative, and final follow-up values of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, Cobb angle, or visual analog scale (VAS) scores (p > 0.05). Bone fusion rates were comparable between the two groups at 6 months, 1 year postoperatively, and at final follow-up, with complete fusion achieved in all patients (p > 0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications and neurological recovery rates did not differ significantly between the two groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Both intervertebral and non-intervertebral surgical strategies for MSTB can effectively restore spinal alignment and achieve satisfactory neurological recovery, provided that strict surgical indications are adhered to. Intervertebral surgery, with its shorter operative time and lower intraoperative blood loss, may offer additional perioperative advantages and serve as a viable option for MSTB management.
Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms for soil health and ecosystem sustainability: a forty-year scientometric analysis (1984–2024)
Authors: Lei Yiming , Kuai Yuhan , Guo Mingyu , Zhang Huan , Yuan Yuan , Hong Hualong
Published: February 2025

Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSM) play a crucial role in promoting crop growth by enhancing phosphorus supply and reducing phosphorus loss in soil. However, a comprehensive bibliometric overview of the research landscape on PSM in agricultural applications has been lacking. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis to explore global research trends, key contributors, and collaborative networks in the application of PSM in ecological restoration, providing valuable insights for future research. A total of 1,662 documents from the Web of Science Core Collection, spanning from 1984 to 2024, were extracted and analyzed using Bibliometrix and CiteSpace software. The findings reveal a period of rapid growth in this field since 2018. Initially, research focused on microbial soil nutrients, such as phosphate rock and Azospirillum brasilense. Current research hotspots have shifted towards topics like drought and salt stress, as well as productivity, reflecting an increasing emphasis on mitigating the impacts of global warming and environmental changes. China and India lead in research output, contributing 36.67% of the total articles. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research published the highest number of articles. Future research on PSM should emphasize their role in enhancing nutrient uptake, improving soil health, and mitigating environmental stresses, supporting sustainable agriculture and ecological restoration. This bibliometric analysis of 1,162 articles by 7,454 authors from 101 countries highlights critical advances at the intersection of soil microbiology, sustainable land management, and climate change adaptation. These findings provide a foundation for addressing global challenges like soil degradation, nutrient cycling, and food security, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Efficacy and safety profile of biotechnological agents and Janus kinase inhibitors in VEXAS syndrome: data from the international AIDA Network VEXAS registry
Authors: Vitale Antonio , Caggiano Valeria , Leone Flavia , Hinojosa-Azaola Andrea , Martín-Nares Eduardo , Guaracha-Basañez Guillermo Arturo , Torres-Ruiz Jiram , Kawakami-Campos Perla Ayumi , Hissaria Pravin , Callisto Alicia , Beecher Mark , Dagna Lorenzo , Campochiaro Corrado , Tomelleri Alessandro , Frassi Micol , Franceschini Franco , Crisafulli Francesca , Hernández-Rodríguez José , Gómez-Caverzaschi Verónica , Araújo Olga , Sfriso Paolo , Bindoli Sara , Baggio Chiara , Sota Jurgen , Tufan Abdurrahman , Kucuk Hamit , Piga Matteo , Cauli Alberto , D’Agostino Maria Antonietta , De Paulis Amato , Mormile Ilaria , Giardini Henrique A. Mayrink , Cordeiro Rafael Alves , Lopalco Giuseppe , Iannone Florenzo , Monti Sara , Montecucco Carlomaurizio , Ruiz-Irastorza Guillermo , Soto-Peleteiro Adriana , Triggianese Paola , Gurnari Carmelo , Viapiana Ombretta , Bixio Riccardo , Vitetta Rosetta , Rovera Guido , Conticini Edoardo , La Torre Francesco , Portincasa Piero , Jaber Nour , Ragab Gaafar , Maher Amina , Batu Ezgi Deniz , Ozen Seza , Wiesik-Szewczyk Ewa , de-la-Torre Alejandra , Balistreri Alberto , Frediani Bruno , Fabiani Claudia , Cantarini Luca
Published: February 2025

Background

VEXAS syndrome, a recently identified systemic autoinflammatory disorder, poses new diagnostic and management challenges. Based on experience with other autoinflammatory diseases, anti-interleukin (IL)-1, anti-IL-6, anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) biotechnological agents, and Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) have been widely employed in VEXAS patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the global effectiveness and safety of biotechnological agents and JAKis using data from the real-world context.

Methods

Clinical, laboratory, and therapeutic data from VEXAS patients were obtained from the international AIDA Network VEXAS registry.

Results

In total, 69 VEXAS patients were enrolled in the study. Among them, 12 patients (13 treatment courses) received IL-1 inhibitors, 12 patients (13 treatment courses) were administered anti-IL-6 agents, 8 patients (9 treatment courses) were treated with anti-TNF agents, and 16 patients (17 treatment courses) were treated with JAKis. A complete response was observed in 3 patients (23%) treated with anti-IL-1 agents, 2 patients (15%) receiving IL-6 inhibitors, 1 patient (11%) receiving TNF inhibitors, and 4 patients (23.5%) treated with JAKis. The mean prednisone (or equivalent) dosage significantly decreased during anti-IL-1 treatment (p = 0.01), while glucocorticoids changed during anti-IL-6, anti-TNF, and JAKi treatment in a non-significant fashion. A total of 21 patients experienced adverse events, 3 of which led to death (gut perforation, Legionnaires’ disease, and infectious pneumonia) while on JAKis; treatment withdrawal was required for 8 out of 21 patients.

Conclusion

IL-1 and IL-6 inhibitors, along with JAKis, represent promising therapeutic options for VEXAS patients, albeit careful monitoring is mandatory to control disease activity and ensure safety.
Add-on effects of total glucosides of paeony on conventional therapies for psoriasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Li Ziqing , Lu Jie , Guan Kewen , Liang Haiwen , Lu Chuanjian , Yu Jingjie
Published: February 2025

Background

Psoriasis is an inflammatory and recurrent dermatological disease that is associated with multiple comorbidities. Conventional psoriasis therapies such as acitretin capsule and narrow-band ultraviolet B radiation (NB-UVB) are prone to decreased efficacy and adverse events in long-term application. Total glucosides of paeony (TGP), a plant extract from Radix Paeoniae Alba, are commonly used in conjunction with conventional therapies for psoriasis. This study aims to elucidate the add-on effect of TGP on conventional therapies in the treatment of psoriasis.

Methods

Seven databases were searched from their inception to March 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using TGP in conjunction with conventional therapies for psoriasis were included. The Risk of Bias 2.0 (RoB 2.0) tool was used to assess bias risk, and data analysis was conducted using RevMan V.5.4. Evaluation outcomes mainly involved a 60% or greater reduction of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (PASI 60) and a 50% or greater reduction of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (PASI 50).

Results

This meta-analysis ultimately included 36 RCTs with 3,140 participants. The findings indicated that TGP combined with conventional therapies were superior to conventional therapies used alone on PASI 60 (RR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.25 to 1.39, P < 0.00001) and PASI 50 (RR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.13 to 1.84, P = 0.004). Several types of conventional therapies were prone to PASI 60 response when combined with TGP than conventional therapies using alone, such as oral medication (RR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.14, to 1.71, P = 0.001), topical medication (RR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.24 to 1.74, P < 0.00001), and NB-UVB (RR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.16 to 1.43, P < 0.00001). Furthermore, the results suggested that TGP might reduce the incidence of adverse events occurred by conventional therapies for psoriasis.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis demonstrated the preliminary clinical evidence supporting the addition of TGP to conventional therapies in treating psoriasis. Owing to the limited methodological quality of the included studies, well-designed RCTs are required to further illustrate the add-on effect of TGP on conventional therapies for psoriasis.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=439904, identifier CRD42023439904.
New options for cilostazol-based dual antiplatelet therapy for ischaemic stroke prevention in East Asian populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaorui , Wang Yixin , Zheng Qiang , Li Pengwei , Yin Jingli , Wang Miaomiao , Zou Liangyu , Wang Jie , Pan Jialin , Qin Lei , Luo Song , Yang Lijuan
Published: February 2025

Background and purpose

The objective of this study is to systematically review the efficacy and safety of cilostazol-based dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in patients with stroke.

Methods

Two reviewers conducted a comprehensive search of eligible studies published in PubMed, Medline, the Cochrane Library, Embase, and four Chinese databases from their establishment to 31 July 2024. The review was registered (CRD42024559047).

Results

This study included a total of 4,473 subjects from 11 studies. The results indicated that, when compared to aspirin/clopidogrel single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT), cilostazol-based DAPT was associated with lower ischemic stroke (RR = 0.54, 95% CI 0.38–0.75, P = 0.0003) and any stroke recurrence (RR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.31–0.86, P = 0.01). Furthermore, the incidence of general adverse events was higher in the cilostazol-based DAPT (RR = 1.93, 95% CI 1.16–3.21, P = 0.01), while no statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups with regard to serious adverse events. The subgroup analysis of follow-up time revealed that the cilostazol-based DAPT regimen demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing the incidence of ischemic stroke recurrence (RR = 0.51; 95% CI 0.36–0.73; P = 0.0002) and any stroke recurrence (RR = 0.49; 95% CI 0.35–0.67; P < 0.0001) in the long-term (>3 months) versus the short-term (≤3 months) group. Furthermore, the cilostazol-based DAPT regimen did not increase the risk of serious adverse events.

Conclusion

DAPT combined with cilostazol and aspirin or clopidogrel was superior to aspirin or clopidogrel alone, did not increase serious adverse events, and was more effective for long-term (>3 months) prophylaxis.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024559047
Untargeted metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis in spring and durum wheat reveals potential mechanisms associated with the early stem solidness phenotype and resistance to wheat stem sawfly
Authors: Hager Megan S. , Cook Jason P. , Bothner Brian , Weaver David K.
Published: February 2025

Wheat stem sawfly (WSS) causes devastating yield loss in both common bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var durum) in the North American Great Plains. The early stem solidness phenotype confers solid stems early in plant development coinciding with the flight period of WSS and provides protection to plants during the critical oviposition period. With this phenotype, pith is lost as the plant develops, which may allow for enhanced biological control of surviving larvae by braconid parasitoids Bracon cephi (Gahan) and Bracon lissogaster Muesebeck, as well as having additional potential yield benefits from utilizing reabsorbed pith components. Here, we use an untargeted transcriptomics and metabolomics approach to explore the mechanisms related to the early stem solidness phenotype in three cultivars of spring wheat and two cultivars of durum wheat in addition to three near- isogenic pairs of spring wheat and two near- isogenic pairs of durum wheat. We identified effects of growth stage and allele on expression of metabolites and transcripts associated with stem solidness, development of cell walls and programmed cell death. A caffeic acid methylesterase and pectin methylesterase were upregulated in hollow stemmed Reeder and lines with the 3BLa allele, which likely influences lignin subunit proportions as well as the production of volatile semiochemicals that impact the behavior of adult WSS. TaVPE3cB, a gene associated with programmed cell death and thickening of cell walls, also had increased expression in hollow stemmed lines and is likely partially responsible for the hollow stemmed phenotype observed. Growth stage and allele also affected the expression of transcripts and metabolites involved in the phenylpropanoid pathway, carbohydrate and glycoside biosynthesis and lipid biosynthesis, implicating the involvement of these pathways in resistance and plant response to infestation by WSS.
Recent advances in understanding the mechanisms of plant cadmium accumulation as affected by grafting in vegetable production
Authors: Zhang Ruimin , Zhu Youzhou , Li Hong , Sun Na
Published: February 2025

Heavy metals in agricultural soils pose a major threat to food safety and human health. Among all heavy metals, cadmium (Cd) is the most problematic with contamination rates of 7% in arable land and 5.3% in facility vegetable growing soils in China. In order to employ a “remediation while producing” mode in the contaminated soils, many remediation approaches have been investigated with unsatisfactory results. Recently, grafting has been reported to have the potential of being environmentally friendly, efficient, widely applicable and low-cost for soil remediation in vegetable production. A review of recent advances in the mechanisms of Cd accumulation in plants as influenced by grafting was conducted, including the processes of root uptake and translocation to the aboveground tissues, and xylem/phloem loading. The impact of grafting on numerous aspects associated with Cd accumulation in plants was found to extend from the rhizosphere soil microbial community, rootstock genetic variation, rootstock-scion interaction to plant responses. By understanding the mechanisms of grafting in Cd detoxification, it provided a theoretical basis for the selection of rootstocks with low Cd accumulation potential and its application as an effective phytoremediation method in Cd contaminated soils.
Hate speech and hate-based harassment in online games
Authors: Wells Garrison , Romhányi Ágnes , Steinkuehler Constance
Published: February 2025

The proliferation of hate speech and hate-based harassment has become a worryingly common trend in online gaming spaces, with researchers fearing that it could lead to the normalization of hateful behaviors on such platforms. However, little research has been done assessing the frequency of such events and how players respond to their occurrence. In this study, we conduct a large-scale survey (n = 602) asking players to reflect on their experiences and responses to hateful conduct in online games. We examine their perspectives when faced with hate speech and harassment from the role of a bystander, a victim, or the perpetrator. We then compare these responses with various demographic factors and personality traits to determine which variables might predict such conduct to occur and persist over time. Our findings suggest that hate speech and harassment are more accepted by those who are not directly targeted, potentially leaving those players as the remaining few to continue inhabiting and shaping online gaming spaces over time.
Dose-response relationship between carotenoid intake and risk of depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women
Authors: Li Xuexue , Wang Su
Published: February 2025

Background

It is well known that postmenopausal women have an increased risk of depression, and there is a dose correlation between carotenoid intake and depression. However, there is no clear study on the relationship between carotenoids and the risk of depression in postmenopausal women. To evaluate the relationship between the prevalence of depression and carotenoid intake in postmenopausal women.

Methods

The study was based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2018 and included 1089 postmenopausal female participants. A logistic regression model was used to verify the relationship between carotenoid intake and the prevalence of depression in postmenopausal women. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) model was used to study the dose-response relationship between carotenoid intake and depression.

Results

After adjusting for confounding variables, Odds Ratios (95% confidence intervals) were found for depression in the highest quartile compared with the lower quartile. Among them, the results of lutein zeaxanthin and β-cryptoxanthin were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Total lycopene 0.29 (0.10,0.87), β-carotene 0.41 (0.18,0.94), and total carotenoid 0.25 (0.09,0.67) were negatively correlated with the risk of depression in postmenopausal women. When α-carotene intake exceeded 2.90 mg/day, it was negatively and non-linearly associated with the prevalence of depression in postmenopausal women (P-nonlinear < 0.0022). When β-carotene intake exceeded 1.06 mg/day, it was negatively correlated with the prevalence of depression in postmenopausal women. It had an L-type nonlinear relationship with the prevalence of depression (P-nonlinear < 0.0016). Total lycopene was linearly correlated with the prevalence of depression in postmenopausal women (P-nonlinear = 0.3). When the intake exceeded 2.05 mg/day, it was negatively correlated with the prevalence.

Conclusion

The study found that dietary intake of sufficient α-carotene, β-carotene, lycopene, total lutein, and zeaxanthin was negatively correlated with the prevalence of depression in postmenopausal women. Still, there was no dose correlation between β-cryptoxanthin.
Relationship between disease perception and feelings of powerlessness in lymphoma patients: the mediating effect of social support and level of hope
Authors: Zhu Yingying , Hua Haiying , Sheng Li , Zhou Jingfen , Ye Long , Gu Siyu
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Lymphoma patients often experience significant physical and psychological stress, with feelings of powerlessness negatively impacting their health. While social support and hope are crucial for improving mood and coping with disease, their mechanisms in relation to disease perception and powerlessness remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the relationship between disease perception and feelings of powerlessness in lymphoma patients, focusing on the mediating roles of social support and hope.

Methods

For a cross-sectional design, 311 lymphoma patients were surveyed using the Brief illness perception questionnaire, Powerlessness assessment tool, Social Support Rating Scale, and Herth’s Hope Scale, and were statistically analyzed using the software SPSS 27.0 and PROCESS version 4.1.

Results

A correlation was found between the disease perception, social support, hope level, and feeling of powerlessness of lymphoma patients (P < 0.01). There was a positive correlation between perceptions of illness and powerlessness (β= 0.291, P<0.001), and disease perception could influence powerlessness through three indirect pathways: the separate mediating effect of social support [β= 0.057, 95%CI (0.029~0.091)], the separate mediating effect of level of hope [β= 0.07, 95%CI (0.034~ 0.107)], and the chain mediating effect of social support and hope level [β= 0.019, 95%CI (0.008~0.033)]. Social support and level of hope played a partial medium mediating effect in the effect of perceived disease on feelings of powerlessness, accounting for 13.04% and 16.02% of the total effect, respectively, and the chained mediating effect of both accounted for 4.35% of the total effect.

Conclusions

Disease perception and powerlessness were positively correlated in lymphoma patients, and in addition, social support and level of hope mediated the relationship. This conclusion provides a theoretical basis and guidance for nursing interventions to reduce powerlessness in lymphoma patients.
Evaluation of National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) of middle-income countries in the WHO European Region; a synopsis
Authors: Külper-Schiek Wiebe , Mosina Liudmila , Jacques-Carroll Lisa A. , Falman Annika , Harder Thomas , Kakarriqi Eduard , Preza Iria , Badalyan Arman , Sahakyan Gayane , Romanova Oxana , Shimanovich Veronika , Musa Sanjin , Bayesheva Dinagul , Azimbayeva Nurshay , Nurmatov Zuridin , Toigombaeva Vera , Revenco Ninel , Gutu Veaceslav , Markovic-Denic Ljiljana , Bonaci-Nikolic Branka , Tursunova Dilorom , Tadzhiyeva Nigora , Wichmann Ole , Datta Siddhartha Sankar
Published: February 2025

Introduction

A National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) provides independent guidance to Ministries of Health (MoH) and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions on national immunization policies and practices. As of 2022, 50 of the 53 countries in the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region (the Region) had established a NITAG, with 58% of all NITAGs and 66% of those in middle-income countries (MICs) in the Region meeting all six WHO process indicators of NITAG functionality. However, many newly established NITAGs in MICs in the Region experience challenges in terms of their functioning, structure, and outputs.

Methods

To address these challenges and achieve the goal of evidence-informed decision making on immunizations, the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) implemented a project to strengthen the functioning of MIC NITAGs of the Region through comprehensive evaluations of nine NITAGs and development and implementation of improvement plans.

Results

All evaluated NITAGs are formally established and complete the most important aspects of NITAG functioning. The main challenge for all NITAGs is the lack of a well-staffed Secretariat to establish annual workplans and develop NITAG recommendations following a standardized process.

Discussion

The evaluation identified NITAGs' strengths and challenges. Some challenges have been addressed through improvement plan implementation. WHO and RKI will continue to evaluate NITAGs and support development and implementation of improvement plans. WHO and NITAG partners will continue to provide training on the standardized recommendation-making process and advocate increased MoH support to NITAGs, including dedicated Secretariat staff.
Health literacy and associated factors among adult type 2 diabetic patients in Woldia Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-East Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Mulugeta Abate Habtemariam , Kumar Prem , Anteneah Samuel , Girma Mitaw , Yimam Wondosen , Desu Birhanu
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite limited research, health literacy in developing countries like Ethiopia remains low, making it a significant challenge to combat non-communicable diseases.

Objective

To assess the level of health literacy and associated factors among adult type 2 diabetic patients in Woldia Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-East Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods and materials

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Woldia Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from April 19 to July 19, 2022, involving 423 participants. Systematic random sampling, face-to-face interviews, and document reviews were used to collect data. The data were coded and entered into Epi-Data version 4.6.0.2, then analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. The results were presented in texts, tables, and figures. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant predictors with p-values below 0.05 and to verify the assumptions of binary logistic regression.

Result

General Health Literacy Index was 27.86 (±6.71), and the magnitude of participants with adequate health literacy in the study was 22.2% (95% CI: 18.4–26.3%). Ages (18–35) years [(AOR =14, 95% CI = 3.86–50.77)], ages (36–50) years [(AOR = 15.38, 95% CI = 4.23–55.9)], being male [(AOR = 2.945, 95% CI = 1.570–5.526)], no experiencing depression symptoms [(AOR = 2.673, 95% CI = 1.308–5.463)], not experiencing anxiety [(AOR = 2.001, 95% CI = 1.011–3.960)] and being literate [(AOR = 4.120, 95% CI = 1.397–12.146)] were significantly associated with adequate health Literacy.

Conclusion and recommendations

The magnitude of adequate health literacy was low. Ages (18–35) years, ages (36–50) years, being male, not experiencing depression symptoms, not experiencing anxiety, and being literate were significantly associated with adequate health literacy. Health professionals should regularly implement health education programs for diabetic patients and communities, focusing on females, older adults, the illiterate, and those experiencing depression and anxiety.