bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive compounds from Chinese herbal plants for neurological health: mechanisms, pathways, and functional food applications
Authors: Meng Wang , Chao Wang , Kaiwei Zhao , Sijia Ma , Jiajia Sang , Shijie Xu
Published: January 2025

Neurological disorders pose significant global public health challenges, with a rising prevalence and complex pathophysiological mechanisms that impose substantial social and economic burdens. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with its holistic approach and multi-target effects, has gained increasing attention in the treatment of neurological diseases. This review explores bioactive compounds derived from Chinese herbal plants, focusing on their mechanisms of action, underlying pathways, and potential applications in functional food development. The review highlights the neuroprotective properties of flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and polyphenols found in key TCM herbs such as Scutellaria baicalensis, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Ligusticum chuanxiong, and Gastrodia elata. These compounds have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neurogenic effects, making them promising candidates for the prevention and treatment of neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and depression. Furthermore, the synergistic effects of TCM formulations targeting multiple signaling pathways offer advantages over single-target therapies, especially in combating neurodegenerative diseases. The review also discusses the challenges and future directions for integrating these bioactive compounds into functional foods and dietary supplements, aiming to improve neurological health and enhance clinical outcomes. Ultimately, this work aims to provide valuable insights into the potential of TCM-based interventions for promoting neurological well-being and addressing the global burden of neurological disorders.
Intracranial germ cell tumors: advancement in genomic diagnostics and the need for novel therapeutics
Authors: Yeo Kee Kiat , Gell Joanna , Dhall Girish , Lau Ching
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The outcomes for patients with intracranial germ cell tumors (GCT) has improved over the past few decades. However, there remains a lack of a consensus on a standard diagnostic and treatment approach of these tumors. The diagnostic work-up of intracranial GCT remains variable, and the treatment for patients with recurrent disease remains challenging.

Methods

We review the current approach in the diagnosis and treatment of intracranial GCT. Given the heterogeneity of these tumors, we highlight the challenges and controversy with these conventional approaches.

Results

We discuss the advancements in the understanding of the underlying genetic changes in intracranial GCT and the utility of novel molecular techniques in the diagnosis and classification of intracranial germ cell tumors as well as development of potential novel therapeutics.

Discussion

Development of liquid biopsy platforms for diagnosis and management of malignancies is a rapidly growing field. Current approach utilizing traditional tumor markers have significant limitations. In this review, we will discuss profiling of intracranial GCTs for genetic and epigenetic signatures, which are emerging as promising biomarkers to assist in the diagnosis and management of intracranial GCTs. Various studies have shown that activating mutations in MAPK pathway are common alterations in intracranial GCTs, with KIT expression seen in most germinomas. Development of targeted therapeutics against KIT has led to the prospect of targeted therapy in germinoma. Other treatment modalities being considered for clinical development include immunotherapy and the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors, especially in NGGCT. In this review, we will discuss the potential novel therapeutics and the clinical trials that are currently under development.
Study on the value of gastrin 17 and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 in gastric juice for early diagnosis in gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Yanfang , Liu Hui , Li Xiang , Jin Juan , Yan Bo
Published: January 2025

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic utility of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) and gastrin 17 (G-17) levels in the gastric juice of patients with gastric cancer and to track changes in the levels of these markers in the gastric juice of these patients.

Methods

126 individuals were diagnosed via gastroscopy. This trial includes gastric mucosal histology and gastroscopy performed at Hefei Second People’s Hospital between March 2023 and March 2024. On the basis of the results of gastroscopy and gastric mucosal histology, all the participants were categorized into three groups: 30 patients with gastric cancer (GC), 34 patients with gastric ulcer (GU) and 62 patients with gastritis. Thirty patients with chronic nonatrophic gastritis were chosen from the physical examination center, and thirty-two patients with chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) composed the gastritis group. As the control group, they were chosen at the physical testing center. An enzyme-related immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify the levels of G-17 and ALDH1 in each group. A correlation study was performed on the levels of ALDH1 and G-17 in the gastric juice. By using binomial logistic regression analysis, the impact of G-17 and ALDH1 in gastric juice on the incidence of gastric cancer was examined. To illustrate the predictive usefulness of G-17 and ALDH1 in gastric juice for GC diagnosis, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated.

Results

The gastric juice of the gastric cancer group had higher levels of ALDH1 and G-17 than did the gastric juice of the gastritis group and GU group (P < 0.05). The levels of ALDH1 and G-17 in gastric juice of gastric ulcer group were higher than those of atrophic gastritis group and control group (P < 0.05). The levels of ALDH1 and G-17 in gastric juice of atrophic gastritis group were statistically significant compared with those of control group (P < 0.05). The development of gastric cancer was significantly influenced by elevated levels of ALDH1 and G-17 in gastric juice (OR= 1.095, 1.018; both P <0.05); the AUCs for the combined diagnosis of gastric cancer and elevated levels of G-17 and ALDH1 in gastric juice were 0.792, 0.757, and 0.695, respectively.

Conclusion

The development of gastric cancer is influenced by increased levels of ALDH1 and G-17 in gastric juice. The diagnosis of gastric cancer may be made more accurately by combining the two gastric fluid markers, which can be found in gastric juice.
Inclusive mentorship of pediatric trainees: pediatric oncology as a microcosm
Authors: Jackson Sadhana , Tsai Jessica W. , MacQuarrie Kyle L.
Published: January 2025

Mentorship is a critical part of career development for medical professionals. Mentees find value in mentors who share parts of their identity, and this role-modeling improves career development. In pediatric hematology-oncology specifically – reflective of academic medicine more broadly - the current pool of mentors is less diverse than the pool of mentees. Mentoring consciously in an inclusive manner is a way to support all mentees, not just those who share identity with the mentor. Utilizing skills such as microintervention and bystander intervention, all while focusing on allyship are tools that mentors can develop and use to improve their mentoring practices.
Epidemiology of neonatal disorders attributable to low birthweight-global burden of disease research, 1990–2021
Authors: Zhang Qi , Luo Lan , Yan Lai-lai , Guo Jing , Wu Hui-jun , Zhang Zi-wei , Zhu Yu-hua , Qiao Rui
Published: January 2025

Background

To evaluate global, regional, and national trends in the burden of neonatal diseases attributable to LBW, as well as associated health inequalities, from 1990 to 2021.

Methods

Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD2021), we analyzed deaths and DALYs due to LBW-attributable neonatal diseases. Data were stratified by gender, geographic region, epidemiological characteristics, and SDI levels. Trends and influencing factors were investigated through Joinpoint regression, health inequality analysis, and frontier modeling.

Results

In 2021, the global age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized disability-adjusted life year (DALY) rate (ASDR) for neonatal diseases associated with low birth weight (LBW) were 22.76 [95% uncertainty interval (UI): 19.63–26.40] and 2,227.54 (95% UI: 1,939.96–2,563.52) per 100,000, respectively. Over the past 32 years, these rates have consistently declined, with average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) of −1.40 [95% confidence interval (CI): −1.48 to −1.33] for ASMR and −1.27 (95% CI: −1.34 to −1.21) for ASDR. Notably, absolute health inequality related to the Socio-demographic Index (SDI) has decreased, as indicated by a reduction in DALY disparities between the most and least developed countries from −4,216.49 (95% CI: −4,558.27 to −3,874.71) in 1990 to −2,635.35 (95% CI: −2,868.40 to −2,402.30) in 2021. However, relative health inequality has worsened, with the relative disease burden in low-SDI countries increasing from −33.46% (95% CI: −36.29% to −30.63%) to −40.20% (95% CI: −44.02% to −36.39%). The burden of neonatal diseases remains disproportionately concentrated in low-SDI regions. Frontier analyses highlight opportunities for improvement across development levels. Some low-SDI countries have achieved minimal theoretical disease burdens, whereas certain high-SDI countries lag in reducing their neonatal disease burdens.

Conclusion

Over the past 32 years, the global burden of neonatal diseases attributable to LBW has significantly decreased, but inequality in disease burden has intensified. Addressing this disparity requires sustained international and governmental efforts to improve the accessibility, equality, and quality of healthcare for pregnant women and newborns.
Case Report: severe pulmonary hypertension in a child with micronutrient deficiency
Authors: Pache-Wannaz Laure , Voicu Cristiana , Boillat Laurence , Sekarski Nicole
Published: January 2025

We describe the rare case of a previously healthy seven year-old boy, with an acute clinical onset of severe pulmonary hypertension. He recovered rapidly after vitamin supplementation. Patient history showed a highly selective food intake in the context of autistic features. Thiamine deficiency seemed to be the predominant causing factor aggravated by moderate iron deficiency and supposed vitamin C deficiency. Dietary impact on pulmonary pressures is still poorly understood, but it seems that micronutrient deficiency could be a rare cause of pulmonary hypertension. Relatively frequent in developing countries and mostly in infants, thiamine deficiency should not be forgotten as a potential etiology in the differential diagnosis when patient dietary history is particular.
Hu-lu-su-pian ameliorates hepatic steatosis by regulating CIDEA expression in AKT-driven MASLD mice
Authors: Ren Rumeng , Wang Qi , Deng Dongjie , Guo Aoao , Chen Xin , Meng Yan , Fang Ying , Zheng Guohua , Xu Zhong , Li Man , Hu Junjie
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Hu-lu-su-pian (HLSP) is an oral tablet derived from the active compounds of Cucumis melo L., a traditional Chinese medicine. This contemporary formulation is frequently employed in clinical settings for the management of liver ailments. However, the molecular mechanism by which HLSP affects metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of HLSP on MASLD and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

The researchers used ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) to identify the primary chemical components of HLSP. A mouse model of MASLD induced by AKT was established through hydrodynamic transfection with activated forms of AKT. Serum biochemical indices and liver pathological assessments were employed to evaluate the pharmacodynamic effects of HLSP on MASLD. Transcriptomic analysis of the liver was conducted to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Further examination of significant DEGs and proteins was performed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) techniques, respectively. The efficacy and molecular mechanisms of HLSP in MASLD were further explored in HepG2 and Huh-7 cells in the presence of gene overexpression.

Results

From the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS results, we detected fifteen components from HLSP. From the results of serum biochemical indices and hepatic pathology analyses, it is clear that HLSP is effective in treating MASLD. The findings from hepatic transcription studies revealed CIDEA as an essential DEG that facilitates lipid droplet (LD) fusion and enhances de novo fatty acid synthesis from scratch in cases of hepatic steatosis, which HLSP has the potential to counteract. In addition, HLSP significantly reduced lipid accumulation and expression of critical genes for de novo fatty acid synthesis in HepG2 and Huh-7 cells overexpressing CIDEA.

Discussion

The present study preliminarily suggests that HLSP can ameliorate hepatic steatosis by inhibiting CIDEA-mediated de novo fatty acid synthesis and LD formation, which may offer a potential strategy for treating MASLD.
Metformin dosage and galectin-3 levels: insights from PCOS patients preparing for IVF
Authors: Nikolić Valentina N. , Stefanović Milan , Mitić Dejan , Sunarić Slavica , Stojiljkovic Vladana , Trajković Hristina , Ignjatović Aleksandra , Stokanović Dragana
Published: January 2025

This study explores the impact of metformin dosage and hyperprolactinemia on galectin-3 levels in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), providing novel insights into their roles in the metabolic and hormonal management of the condition. A cohort of 53 women, diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria and undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) preparation, was analyzed to determine how these factors influence galectin-3, a biomarker in PCOS. Using high-performance liquid chromatography to measure metformin concentrations and ELISA for galectin-3, our results revealed that both metformin dosage and hyperprolactinemia significantly statistically associated with galectin-3 levels, while body mass index (BMI) showed no significant association. These findings challenge prior assumptions and suggest that galectin-3 may be regulated via pathways independent of metformin pharmacokinetics. Notably, the correlation between galectin-3 levels and metformin concentration was either absent or weak after adjusting for the daily dose, indicating that treatment duration and dosage, rather than absolute drug levels, may more critically influence galectin-3. This study offers deeper insights into the role of personalized metformin dosing in managing PCOS, enhancing the understanding of metabolic and hormonal regulation in this condition, and laying the groundwork for future targeted therapies.
Spatial metabolomics in mental disorders and traditional Chinese medicine: a review
Authors: Lei Chaofang , Chen Jiaxu , Chen Zhigang , Ma Chongyang , Chen Xudong , Sun Xiongxing , Tang Xukun , Deng Jun , Wang Shiliang , Jiang Junlin , Wu Dahua , Xie Le
Published: January 2025

Spatial metabolomics is an emerging technology that integrates mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) with metabolomics, offering a novel visual perspective for traditional metabolomics analysis. This technology enables in-depth analysis in three dimensions: qualitative, quantitative, and localization of metabolites. Spatial metabolomics precisely reflects the characteristics of metabolic network changes in metabolites within entire tissues or specific micro-regions. It provides a detailed understanding of the pharmacodynamic material basis and mechanisms of action. These capabilities suggest that spatial metabolomics can offer significant technical support for studying the complex pathophysiology of mental disorders. Although the mechanisms underlying mental disorders have been reviewed multiple times, this paper provides a comprehensive comparison between traditional metabolomics and spatial metabolomics. It also summarizes the latest progress and challenges of applying spatial metabolomics to the study of mental disorders and traditional Chinese medicine.
Metallothionein II treatment mitigates rotenone-induced neurodegeneration in zebrafish models of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Nies Yong Hui , Lim Wei Ling , Abd Karim Norwahidah , Yahaya Mohamad Fairuz , Teoh Seong Lin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting motor function due to progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Current therapies offer symptomatic relief but fail to halt disease progression, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. This study explores the neuroprotective potential of exogenous human metallothionein 2 (hMT2) peptide in a rotenone-induced PD zebrafish model.

Methods

Adult zebrafish were divided into four groups: control, rotenone-treated, hMT2 pre-treatment, and hMT2 co-treatment. PD model was established by exposing zebrafish to 5 µg/L rotenone water for 28 days. hMT2 (0.2 µg) was administered intracranially either one day before or seven days after rotenone exposure.

Results

The novel tank test demonstrated that rotenone exposure significantly impaired locomotor activity (p < 0.05) and increased anxiety-like behavior (p < 0.001). Additionally, PD model zebrafish exhibited reduced dopamine levels, decreased dopaminergic neuron population, elevated oxidative stress, heightened inflammatory response and mitochondrial dysfunction. Treatment with hMT2, especially in the co-treatment group, ameliorated these deficits by restoring locomotor activity, dopamine levels, and dopaminergic neuron counts while reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and improving mitochondrial function.

Discussion

These results suggest that hMT2 exhibited neuroprotective effect in the PD model zebrafish. These findings support the potential of MT as a therapeutic agent for PD.
Development and validation a methodology model for traditional Chinese medicine good practice recommendation: an exploratory sequential mixed methods study
Authors: Li Su , Zhang Luan , Wang Yangyang , Xie Runsheng , Chen Wenjia , Lee Myeong Soo , Amer Yasser Sami , Sharifan Amin , Hussein Heba , Li Hui
Published: January 2025

Background

To develop a rational and standardized traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) good practice recommendation (GPR) methodology model that guides the formulation of recommendations grounded in clinical experience.

Methods

We adopted an exploratory sequential mixed-method to develop a methodology model by coding systematically collected literature on methodology and TCM guidelines related to TCM GPR using a best-fit framework synthesis. Then based on real-world data (published TCM guidelines), saturation tests, structural rationality validation, and discriminability tests were conducted to validate methodology model.

Results

A total of 35 methodological literature and 190 TCM guidelines were included. A TCM GPR methodology model was developed, including 3 themes, 10 sub-themes, and the relationships between themes and subthemes. The information of TCM GPR methodology model achieved data saturation. The fit indices were within the acceptable range, and were able to distinguish the overall differences between guidelines from different literature sources, development organizations, guideline types, discipline categories, and funding categories.

Conclusion

The study developed a TCM GPR methodology model which describes the definition of a TCM GPR, how to formulate it, and how to report it. The methodology modeldemonstrates good fit, discriminability, and data saturation. It can standardize the specific formulation of TCM GPRs, facilitate the scientific and rational formation of TCM GPRs, and provide theoretical and methodological guidance for the formation of TCM GPRs.
Immune-related adverse events with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors: insights from a real-world cohort of 2523 patients
Authors: Yan Ting , Long Minghui , Liu Chaoyi , Zhang Jiwen , Wei Xingyu , Li Fei , Liao Dehua
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have significantly changed cancer therapy, improving patient survival rates and clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, the use of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors can result in immune-related adverse events (irAEs). This study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors of irAEs in a real-world setting, as well as to assess their effects on optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective analysis involved 2523 patients with cancer who received inpatient PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors treatment between January 2018 and December 2022. We documented patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics, PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitors, treatment modalities, incidences, timing, and severity of irAEs, and efficacy outcomes by reviewing inpatient records. Patients were categorized into an irAEs group and a non-irAEs group, with the former further subdivided into a multiple irAEs group and a single irAE group. Chi-square tests were employed to evaluate differences in baseline characteristics and efficacy outcomes between the irAEs and non-irAEs groups, as well as between the multiple and single irAE groups. Additionally, logistic regression analysis was utilized to identify risk factors linked to irAEs.

Results

Among 2523 eligible patients, 1096 reported 1802 irAEs, with an incidence incidence of 43.4%. Among 1096 individuals, 92.1% were classified as grade 1–2, while 7.9% were grade 3 or higher. IrAEs affected various organ systems, with endocrine toxicity (17.7%), hepatic toxicity (17.2%), and hematologic toxicity (11.4%) being the most common. 20.5% patients experienced multi-system irAEs. The average time for patients to develop irAEs was within four treatment cycles. Significant differences in patient gender, age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status (PS), comorbidities, PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitors, and treatment modalities were observed between the irAEs and non-irAEs groups, but not between the multiple irAEs and single irAE groups. Compared to the non-irAEs group, the irAEs group exhibited a higher objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR), and the multiple irAEs group also showed a higher ORR than the single irAE group.

Conclusion

This real-world study indicated that the occurrence of irAEs is related to patient gender, age, ECOG PS, comorbidities, PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, and treatment modalities. The occurrence of irAEs may be associated with better treatment benefits.
Rat perivascular adipose tissue microvasculature revealed by tissue clearing
Authors: Watts Stephanie W. , Flood Emma , Gulbransen Brian D. , Jackson William F.
Published: January 2025

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) surrounds the majority of blood vessels and plays diverse roles in vascular and metabolic functions. The hormonal and lipid exchange functions of PVAT require access to blood vessels. However, the microvascular supply of PVAT, especially in rats, remains enigmatic due to technical restraints involved in imaging fat depots. Therefore, we developed and validated an approach to visualize the microvasculature of PVAT in rats. In this study, we report a stepwise protocol as a method to clear and visualize the microvasculature of the thoracic aortic PVAT in the Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rat. Blood vessels are first traced in anesthetized rats using Lycopersicon esculentum (tomato) lectin DyLight 649 (Lectin 649). The dissected aorta with intact PVAT is then subjected to a stepwise clearing protocol over 12 days, followed by imaging on a Nikon confocal microscope. Images were stitched together to visualize cross sections of the whole vessels. The microvasculature of aortic PVAT is present and profoundly dense, and it is similar in the ventral and lateral lobes of aortic PVAT. This developed method is adoptable and adaptable to other PVATs in rats.
Effects of Eleclazine (GS6615) on the proarrhythmic electrophysiological changes induced by myocardial stretch
Authors: Chorro Francisco J. , Such-Miquel Luis , Cuñat Samuel , Arias-Mutis Oscar , Genovés Patricia , Zarzoso Manuel , Alberola Antonio , Such-Belenguer Luis , Del Canto Irene
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Myocardial stretch is a proarrhythmic factor. Eleclazine (GS6615) is a late sodium current (INaL) inhibitor that has shown protective effects against arrhythmias in various experimental models. Data on its effects during myocardial stretch are lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate the electrophysiological modifications induced by eleclazine basally and during acute ventricular stretch.

Methods

Left ventricular stretch was induced at baseline and during perfusion with eleclazine in 26 Langendorff rabbit heart preparations. Programmed stimulation and high-resolution mapping techniques were applied using multiple epicardial electrodes.

Results

At baseline, both the ventricular refractory period measured at a fixed cycle length (250 m) and its surrogate obtained during ventricular fibrillation (VF) decreased significantly during stretch (baseline 128 ± 15 vs. stretch 110 ± 14 m; n = 15; p < 0.001, and baseline 52 ± 13 vs. stretch 44 ± 9 m; n = 11; p < 0.05), while the VF dominant frequency (DF) increased significantly (DF baseline 13 ± 3 vs. stretch 17 ± 5Hz; n = 11; p < 0.01). Eleclazine 1.4 μM prolonged refractoriness, diminished both DF and conduction velocity during the arrhythmia, and avoided the stretch induced variations in refractoriness (baseline 148 ± 19 vs. stretch 150 ± 23 m; n = 15; ns, and baseline 73 ± 15 vs. stretch 77 ± 15 m; n = 11; ns) and in DF (baseline 12 ± 5 vs. stretch 12 ± 3 Hz; ns). The VF complexity index was inversely related to refractoriness (r = −0.64; p < 0.001). Under eleclazine perfusion, the VF activation patterns were less complex, and the arrhythmia stopped in 6 out of 11 experiments (55%; p < 0.05 vs. baseline).

Conclusion

Eleclazine (GS6615) reduced the proarrhythmic electrophysiological changes induced by myocardial stretch and slowed and simplified activation patterns during VF in the experimental model used.
Autologous precision-cut lung slice co-culture models for studying macrophage-driven fibrosis
Authors: Chang So-Yi , Chang Wen-Hsin , Yang David C. , Hong Qi-Sheng , Hsu Ssu-Wei , Wu Reen , Chen Ching-Hsien
Published: January 2025

Precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) are commonly used as an ex vivo model to study lung fibrosis; however, traditional models lack immune cell infiltration, including the recruitment of monocytes and macrophages, which are critical for inflammation and fibrosis. To address this limitation, we developed novel autologous PCLS-immune co-culture models that better replicate the processes of inflammation, repair, and immune cell recruitment associated with fibrosis. Fibrotic responses to nicotine, cigarette smoke extract (CSE), and a fibrosis-inducing cocktail (FC) were first evaluated in PCLS containing only tissue-resident macrophages, with upregulation of α-SMA-expressing fibroblasts confirmed by immunofluorescence and Western blotting, and collagen deposition quantified using Sirius Red staining. To study macrophage recruitment, we employed an indirect co-culture model using transwells to approximate blood vessel function. Chemotactic studies revealed increased migration of autologous bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) toward and infiltration into CSE-injured PCLS. In a direct co-culture model simulating the repair phase of fibrosis, PCLS exposed to CSE and FC showed further increased collagen deposition in the presence of autologous BMDMs, but not heterologous ones. These findings suggest that our novel PCLS-immune co-culture models provide a platform for studying macrophage involvement in fibrosis and offer potential for developing macrophage-targeted therapeutic strategies in pulmonary fibrosis.
Reducing vasospasm of vein and arterial conduits used in coronary artery bypass surgery: are solutions the solution or is preserved perivascular fat the answer?
Authors: Dashwood Michael R. , Celik Zeynep , Topal Gokce
Published: January 2025

The three main conduits used for myocardial revascularization in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) are the internal thoracic artery (ITA), radial artery (RA) and saphenous vein (SV). In coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) conduits may be harvested with perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) intact (pedicled) or removed (skeletonized). Various studies have shown that the patency rate of these bypass grafts may be affected by the preservation or removal of PVAT. Vasospasm is often encountered at harvesting, a condition that has both immediate and long term effects on graft performance. During surgery a variety of antispastic solutions are routinely used on conduits that have anti-contractile and/or vasorelaxant actions. Spasm may be abolished or reduced when PVAT is left intact at harvesting and this is particularly the case for the SV. The protective properties of PVAT are multifactorial, ranging from its mechanical properties in supporting the graft after implantation to the beneficial effect of adipocyte-derived factors. This review aims to outline the possible mechanisms through which preserved PVAT could alleviate vasospasm and improve conduit performance in CABG. Moreover, since preservation of PVAT reduces spasm at and after surgery this review also considers whether antispastic solutions are needed if conduits are harvested with PVAT intact.
TomatoGuard-YOLO: a novel efficient tomato disease detection method
Authors: Wang Xuewei , Liu Jun
Published: January 2025

Tomatoes are highly susceptible to numerous diseases that significantly reduce their yield and quality, posing critical challenges to global food security and sustainable agricultural practices. To address the shortcomings of existing detection methods in accuracy, computational efficiency, and scalability, this study propose TomatoGuard-YOLO, an advanced, lightweight, and highly efficient detection framework based on an improved YOLOv10 architecture. The framework introduces two key innovations: the Multi-Path Inverted Residual Unit (MPIRU), which enhances multi-scale feature extraction and fusion, and the Dynamic Focusing Attention Framework (DFAF), which adaptively focuses on disease-relevant regions, substantially improving detection robustness. Additionally, the incorporation of the Focal-EIoU loss function refines bounding box matching accuracy and mitigates class imbalance. Experimental evaluations on a dedicated tomato disease detection dataset demonstrate that TomatoGuard-YOLO achieves an outstanding mAP50 of 94.23%, an inference speed of 129.64 FPS, and an ultra-compact model size of just 2.65 MB. These results establish TomatoGuard-YOLO as a transformative solution for intelligent plant disease management systems, offering unprecedented advancements in detection accuracy, speed, and model efficiency.
Inducing salt stress tolerance in bitter gourd (Momordica chanrantia) through seed treatment with chitosan
Authors: Ali Ahsan , Ferdosi Fiaz Hussain , Sarwar Mubeen , Anjum Sumreen , Mushtaq Zain , Liaquat Mehwish , Abbas Muhammad Taqqi , Anees Moazzam , Tariq Muhammad Rizwan , Ashraf M. Irfan , Alasmari Abdulrahman , Mondol Md Sabir Ahmed , Abdi Gholamreza
Published: January 2025

Background

Bitter gourd requires well-drained sandy to sandy loam soils for optimum growth, development, and germination, while its growth is retarded in extreme saline conditions. It is very sensitive to salinity stress, which imposes devastating limits on its productivity. Thus, the impact of soil salinization on the economics of bitter gourd yield deserves scientific inquiry.

Methods

The present study was designed to evaluate the various morphological attributes (mean germination time, germination index, final emergence percentage, measurements of root length, measurement of shoot length, measurement of plant dry biomass, and measurement of plant fresh biomass), physiological attributes (leaf chlorophyll content and electrolyte leakage), biochemical attributes (proline contents, antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase Q9 , and peroxidase), leaf water relations (leaf osmotic potential, leaf water potential, leaf turgor potential, and leaf relative water content), and ion concentrations (Na+, K+, Ca +, and Cl-) that can be used for the evaluation of salt stress tolerance potential in bitter gourd. The research was conducted in the field area of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore.

Results

In this experiment, bitter gourd seeds were sowed either without treatment or with hydropriming, 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.03%, 0.04%, and 0.05% chitosan, respectively, under 50mM soil salinity under the climatic conditions of Lahore. This research was designed to find the role of chitosan in inducing salt stress tolerance in bitter gourd plants and also find the best chitosan dose that is useful for higher salinity conditions. Different attributes of bitter gourd were recorded. Results revealed that chitosan application at 0.04% is best for enhancing the salt stress tolerance potential of bitter gourd. Different morphological attributes, physiological attributes, water relation attributes, and biochemical parameters were also recorded. It was observed that pre-sowing treatments with an optimized dose of 0.04% chitosan exhibited significant effects on all the bitter gourd plants and improved the germination rate by improving the salt stress tolerance potential of plants under high salinity.

Conclusion

It can be concluded from the present research that the optimized dose of 0.04% chitosan has also proved effective in the enzymatic activity of bitter gourd by enhancing the salt stress potential under increasing salt stress.
Genome-wide investigation of ABCB, PIN, and AUX/LAX gene families and their involvement in the formation of leaf protrusions in Sesamum indicum
Authors: Li Yanli , Ma Yujia , Gong Huihui , Cui Xinxiao , Wang Xin , Dong Yuling , Chen Ying , Zhao Junsheng
Published: January 2025

Sesamum indicum, a highly esteemed oil crop, has exhibited remarkable value and potential in diverse areas encompassing the economy, food industry, and health. We have observed that there are small protrusions on the leaves of the indehiscent capsule material G1358. No obvious difference was detected on overall auxin content between the leaves of G1358 and LZ1 from metabolomic analysis. However, auxin levels at the base of G1358 leaves were notably higher than in LZ1, suggesting a correlation between the small protrusions at the base and polar auxin transport (PAT). PAT is essential for regulating growth and development across different plant tissues. PAT primarily relies on three families of transporter proteins: ABCB, PIN, and AUX/LAX. However, the ABCB, PIN, and AUX/LAX protein families in Sesamum indicum have not been systematically characterized. Herein, we identified 21 SiABCBs, 11 SiPINs, and 5 SiLAXs in S. indicum. Our analysis indicated that tandem duplications have facilitated the expansion of SiLAX, SiPIN, and SiABCB gene families, which have undergone purifying selection throughout their evolutionary history. Transcriptome screening and RT-qPCR analysis revealed that SiABCB3, SiABCB6, and SiPIN10 positively regulate PAT, whereas SiABCB7 and SiABCB9 negatively regulate PAT in G1358. These regulatory interactions contribute to the formation of small protrusions in G1358 leaves and enhance the rate of photosynthesis. Our findings provide a theoretical foundation for understanding PAT genes and their roles in the environmental adaptation of sesame.
Integrated physiological and transcriptomic analysis uncovers the mechanism of moderate nitrogen application on promoting the growth and (-)-borneol accumulation of Blumea balsamifera
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Tang Wei-Jie , Cao Jia-Yuan , Zhong Ke , Mo Ze-Jun , Zhou Ying , Pang Yu-Xin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Blumea balsamifera, a half-woody plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, is valued as both a medicinal and industrial crop primarily for its phytochemical component, (-)-borneol. Nitrogen (N) is essential for regulating the growth of B. balsamifera and the biosynthesis of (-)-borneol; however, the molecular mechanisms by which N influences these processes remain inadequately understood. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of N on growth and (-)-borneol synthesis at the molecular level.

Methods

A field experiment was conducted in which B. balsamifera plants were fertilized with three different nitrogen regimes: 0 kg N ha-1 (control, CK), 150 kg N ha-1 (N1 treatment), and 300 kg N ha-1 (N2 treatment). Physiological and biochemical assessments were performed to evaluate the growth and metabolic responses of the plants under these varying N conditions. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing of leaves of B. balsamifera was conducted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms involved.

Results and discussion

The results indicated that both the N1 and N2 treatments significantly promoted the growth of B. balsamifera, with the 150 kg N ha-1 treatment (N1) resulting in the most favorable effects. Under the N1 treatment, the leaves harvested in October, November, and December exhibited the highest accumulation of (-)-borneol, with yields of 782 mg plant-1, 1102 mg plant-1, and 1774 mg plant-1, respectively, which were significantly different from those observed in the CK and N2 treatments. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed a total of 6,714 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Notably, several DEGs associated with auxin signaling and N metabolism were upregulated in the N1 and N2 treatments. In contrast, many DEGs related to carbohydrate metabolism, terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, monoterpenoid biosynthesis, and flavonoid biosynthesis were significantly upregulated in the CK treatment. Moreover, potential transcription factors (TFs) that may link N nutrition with the synthesis of medicinal components were identified. Our study demonstrates that N can enhance the accumulation of (-)-borneol in B. balsamifera when applied in appropriate quantities. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between N nutrition and (-)-borneol yield in B. balsamifera, offering valuable insights for future cultivation practices.
Evaluation of carrot (Daucus carota L.) varieties for growth and yield as affected by NPSB fertilizer rates in Gondar district, Ethiopia
Authors: Mulugeta Abebaw , Asrat Fentahun , Asres Derajew , Mebrat Shiferaw
Published: January 2025

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is one of the most important root crops grown worldwide and in Ethiopia. However, its production and productivity are low due to a lack of improved varieties and unbalanced fertilizer rates, among other factors. The field experiment was, therefore, conducted to determine the performance of carrot varieties through blended fertilizer rates at Gondar district for a consecutive period of two years. The treatment consisted of six rates of blended NPSB (Nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and Boron) fertilizer (0, 40.6, 81.3, 122, 162.3, and 203.4 kg ha-1) and two carrot varieties (Haramay-I and Nantes), which were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The main effect of blended NPSB received in 162.3 kg ha-1 obtained the highest root diameter (3.38 cm), root length (20.93 cm), and root volume (110.60 mm). The main effect of the year was also the maximum number of leaves (10.3), root diameter (2.96 cm), root length (20.09 cm), and root volume (89.20 mm) recorded from the 2021 planting year. On the other hand, in the interaction of variety and NPSB, the highest root fresh weight (134.48 g plant-1) was obtained from the Haramaya-I variety and the application of 162.3 NPSB kg ha-1, while the lowest (57.13 g plant-1) was recorded by the Nantes variety with control. The highest dry matter (13.67%), marketable (50.77 t ha-1) and total (55.32 t ha-1) root yields were recorded from the interaction of 162.3 kg NPSB ha-1 and Haramaya-I variety. Therefore, the planting season and varietal selection should be considered in the carrot production area.
Physiological and molecular mechanisms of exogenous salicylic acid in enhancing salt tolerance in tobacco seedlings by regulating antioxidant defence system and gene expression
Authors: Song Xiliang , Chen Jian , Xu Can , Cai Xianjie , Song Wenjing , Chang Aixia , Zhang Yu , Luo Chenggang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Salt stress has emerged as a predominant abiotic factor that jeopardizes global crop growth and yield. The plant hormone salicylic acid (SA) has notable potential in mitigating salt toxicity, yet its mechanism in enhancing the salinity tolerance of tobacco plants is not well explored.

Methods

This study aimed to assess the potential benefits of exogenous SA application (1.0 mM) on tobacco seedlings subjected to saline soil conditions.

Results

The foliar spray of SA partially mitigated these salt-induced effects, as evidenced by a reduction of malondialdehyde content, and improvements of leaf K+/Na+ ratios, pigment biosynthesis, and electron transport efficiency under NaCl stress. Additionally, SA increased the contents of total phenolic compound and soluble protein by 16.2% and 28.7% to alleviate NaCl-induced oxidative damage. Under salt stressed conditions, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, and peroxidase increased by 4.2%~14.4% in SA sprayed tobacco seedlings. Exogenous SA also increased ascorbate and glutathione levels and reduced their reduced forms by increasing the activities of glutathione reductase, ascorbate peroxidase, monodehydroascorbate reductase and dehydroascorbate reductase. qRT−PCR analysis revealed that the key genes regulating SA biosynthesis, carbon assimilation, the antioxidant system and the ascorbate−glutathione cycle were activated by SA under conditions of salt stress.

Discussion

Our study elucidates the physiological and molecular mechanisms of exogenous SA in enhancing plant salt tolerance and provides a practical basis for crop improvement in saline environments.
Relationship between accelerometer-measured physical activity and depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients with comorbid diabetes mellitus: a multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Liang Ruiting , Chen Xiaoyu , Siqin Gaowa , Zhang Zhixin , Zhang Shumei , Li Lihua , Talin SarNa , Guo Qi
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the association between accelerometer-derived moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

This cross-sectional study finally included 450 maintenance hemodialysis patients (male 281, average age 62 years) from seven dialysis centers in Shanghai, China. Physical activity (PA) was measured using the triaxial accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+, Pensacola, FL, United States). We measured depressive symptoms using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) (PHQ-9 ⩾ 10). We categorized physical activity into quartile groups (Q1 through Q4), with the first quartile defined as low engagement and the remaining quartiles defined as moderate to high engagement. We used logistic regression and trend test to analyze the relationship between quartile groups and depressive symptoms. The analyses in this study adjusted for a range of confounders.

Results

The prevalence of depression was higher in patients with hemodialysis combined with T2DM (17.2%). In diabetic patients, MVPAQ4 was negatively associated with depression after adjusting for covariates [OR = 0.076; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.006–0.955, p = 0.046]. However, in non-diabetic hemodialysis patients, no significant association was found between MVPAQ1-Q4 and depression after adjusting for covariates (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was associated with depression in the diabetic hemodialysis group, but not in the non-diabetic group. Further studies are needed to investigate more causal relationships between MVPA and depressive symptoms in patients with T2DM.
Goal and shot prediction in ball possessions in FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023: a machine learning approach
Authors: Iván-Baragaño Iyán , Ardá Antonio , Losada José L. , Maneiro Rubén
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Research in women’s football and the use of new game analysis tools have developed significantly in recent years. The objectives of this study were to create two predictive classification models to forecast the occurrence of a shot or a goal in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and to identify the associated technical-tactical indicators to these outcomes.

Methods

A total of 2,346 ball possessions were analyzed using an observational design, mapping two different target variables (Success = Goal and Success2 = Goal or Shot) with a relative frequency of 1.28 and 8.35%, respectively. The predictive capacity was tested using Random Forest and XGBoost and finally and SHAP values were calculated and visualized to understand the influence of the predictors.

Results

Random Forest technique showed greater efficacy, with recall and sensitivity above 93% in the resampled dataset. However, recall on the original test sample was 13% (Success = Shot or Goal) and 0% (Success = Goal), demonstrating the models’ inability to predict rare events in football, such as goals. The indicators with the greatest influence on the outcome of these possessions were related to the possession zone, attack duration, number of passes, and starting zone, among others.

Conclusion

The results highlight the need to incorporate a greater number of predictive variables in the models and underline the difficulty of predicting events such as goals and shots in women’s football.
Where you live, what you do: depression differences among diverse Chinese nongmin through cognitive openness
Authors: He Li , Wang Jiangyin , Yang Yang , Tian Zhilu , Jiang Liu
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to investigate the depression levels among Workers with Agricultural Hukou (WAH) in China, considering their varied living environments, types of work, and social discrimination experiences. It specifically addresses the research question: Is there a significant discrepancy in depression levels among different subgroups within WAH?

Methods

The study utilizes data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) for the years 2018 and 2020. To estimate the depression levels and their variances across different WAH subgroups, we employed three analytical methods: Ordinary Least Squares, Propensity Score Matching, and Two-Stage Least Squares.

Results

Our findings indicate that all WAH subgroups experience higher levels of depression compared to Workers with Non-Agricultural Hukou (WNAH). Among the WAH subgroups, the depression levels, in ascending order, are observed in Rural-to-Urban Migrant Workers (RUMW), Rural Non-Agricultural Workers (RNAW), Subsistence Farmers, and Agricultural Laborers. Notably, these differences in depression levels may be influenced by the mechanism of cognitive openness.

Conclusion

The study concludes that there are significant disparities in depression levels among WAH subgroups. Understanding these differences is crucial for targeted mental health interventions and for addressing the broader implications of social discrimination and work-related stress among agricultural workers in China.