bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChPDIA3 targeted by miR-126-x and miR-21-y responds to Vibrio harveyi infection in Crassostrea hongkongensis
Authors: Hou Yongkang , Zhang Fangqi , Liu Xiaokun , Huang Dongming , Li Zhimin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The Hong Kong oyster (Crassostrea hongkongensis), as the main marine aquaculture shellfish in the South China Sea, not only has high economic and ecological value, but also is an ideal model for conducting research on pathogen-host interactions. In the cultivation process of C. hongkongensis, there is a challenge posed by vibrios. To improve the antibacterial strains of C. hongkongensis, we have studied the gene associated with immunity, PDIA3.

Methods and findings

In this study, we cloned the PDIA3 sequence of the C. hongkongensis, using the RACE technique. It has a total of 2081 bp and contains a 5'-UTR of 55 bp and a 3'-UTR of 547 bp. The ChPDIA3 gene sequence has an ORF frame that is 1479 bp in length and encodes 492 amino acids. Analysis of the phylogenetic tree constructed by Neighbor Joining method showed that ChPDIA3 clustered with other shellfishes into a single unit, which was consistent with the law of species evolution.

Discussion

The highest expression of ChPDIA3 was detected in gill tissues of the C. hongkongensis using RT-qPCR, and significantly higher expression in V. harveyi and LPS infection than Poly(I:C) (P<0.05). This may indicate that ChPDIA3 is primarily involved in the immune response against bacterial infections in the C. hongkongensis. The binding sites of miR-126-x, miR-21-y and ChPDIA3 were detected using dual luciferase experiments, respectively. The results showed that both miR-126-x and miR-21-y inhibited the 3'-UTR region of ChPDIA3. This suggested that both miR-126-x and miR-21-y inhibited ChPDIA3 expression. This study will help to further understand the function of ChPDIA3 in response to pathogen infection, thus providing new ideas for understanding the resistance and adaptation of the C. hongkongensis to Vibrio infection.
A critical environmental justice framework for the illegal wildlife trade
Authors: Green Aalayna R.
Published: February 2025

Rapidly, scholars and practitioners are recognizing the need for the radical incorporation of justice into conservation interventions. Critical environmental justice is an attractive avenue for integrating justice and wildlife crime prevention within the illegal wildlife trade. As coined by David Pellow, critical environmental justice delineates dynamics of inequality related to intersecting social categories, multi-scalarity, racial expendability, and state power. Within IWT, these pillars of critical environmental justice offer opportunities to contend with futures otherwise and to pursue IWT intervention with a grounded understanding of communities, wildlife, and each other. This article demystifies the critical EJ literature and analyzes IWT through a critical EJ lens. Grounding IWT prevention and study in a critical EJ approach can facilitate a more seamless, radical, and transformative integration of justice principles into IWT intervention.
Strengthening the STEM pipeline: impact of project-based synthetic biology program on high school students’ science identity and competency
Authors: Mims Pamela J. , Lee Lindsay E. , Kuldell Natalie , Franklin Chloe
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of a project-based science education intervention, BioBuilderClub, on high school students’ science identity, self-beliefs, and content knowledge in synthetic biology. Addressing the critical “leaky pipeline” issue in biotechnology education, this intervention focused on fostering scientific engagement and competency through hands-on, interdisciplinary projects. Using descriptive and correlational statistics (i.e., paired t-tests, residual change regression), we found that the project-based intervention resulted in significant improvements in students’ self-perceived scientific engagement, competency, and content knowledge regardless of gender, locale, and first generation status. Across expert raters, we also found an improvement in the understanding of synthetic biology and students reported an increased interest in biotechnology and related fields. These findings underscore the potential of project-based learning to enhance STEM retention by building strong science identities, particularly among underrepresented groups. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of such interventions and their integration into standard curricula to further bolster the biotechnology pipeline.
The correlation between primary ovarian insufficiency, sex hormones and immune cells: a two-step Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Hong Tongtong , Pu Danhua , Wu Jie
Published: February 2025

Background

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), a cause of female infertility, is characterized by elevated gonadotropin levels and fluctuating estrogen reductions, accompanied by irregular menstruation, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Previous studies have shown an association between POI and immune cells, but the causal relationship remains unclear. Sex hormones play a crucial role in immune regulation by influencing the function and levels of immune cells, suggesting they may be key mediators between POI and immune cells.

Methods

Utilizing genome-wide association studies (GWAS), we conducted a comprehensive bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal relationship between 731 immune cell traits and POI. Furthermore, a two-step MR analysis was employed to examine the potential mediating effects of sex hormones between these two systems. To ensure the robustness of our findings, we performed extensive sensitivity analyses, evaluating heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy.

Results

After FDR adjustment (PFDR < 0.05), ten immune cell phenotypes were significantly correlated with the risk of POI. Among these, one immune cell phenotype was identified as a risk factor for POI (OR > 1), while the other nine immune cell phenotypes were protective factors (OR < 1). In the reverse MR analysis, POI was positively correlated with seven immunocyte phenotypes (OR > 1) and negatively correlated with eleven immunocyte phenotypes (OR < 1). No potential mediating effects of ten sex hormones were found between POI and immune cell traits.

Conclusions

Our study comprehensively assessed the correlation between immune cell phenotypes and POI in the European population, excluding the mediating role of sex hormones, thus providing valuable insights into the biological mechanisms of POI and informing early prevention and treatment strategies.
Patchoulene epoxide mitigates colitis and hepatic damage induced by dextran sulfate sodium by regulating the colonic microbiota and purine metabolism
Authors: Chen Liping , Xie Lili , Wang Lifen , Zhan Xueli , Zhuo Zhenjian , Jiang Susu , Miao Lei , Zhang Xinxin , Zheng Weiming , Liu Tzu-Ming , He Jing , Liu Yuhong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is often characterized by dysbiosis of the colonic microbiota and metabolic disturbances, which can lead to liver damage. Patchoulene epoxide (PAO), a tricyclic sesquiterpene derived from the aged essential oil of Pogostemonis Herba, is known for its anti-inflammatory and ulcer-healing properties. However, its dual protective role against UC and liver injury remains largely unexplored. This study aims to elucidate the protective effect and underlying mechanism of PAO against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC and liver injury in mice.

Methods

Colitis and liver injury in mice were induced by adding 3% DSS to their drinking water continuously for 7 days, and PAO at the doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg was administered orally to mice daily from the first day until the experimental endpoint. Stool consistency scores, blood stool scores, and body weights were recorded weekly. Disease activity index (DAI) was determined before necropsy, where colon and liver tissues were collected for biochemical analyses. Additionally, the fecal microbiome and its metabolites of treated mice were characterized using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and metabolomics.

Results

PAO significantly reduced the disease activity index and mitigated colonic atrophy in UC mice. It also improved colonic and hepatic pathological changes by safeguarding tight and adherens junctions, and suppressing the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lipopolysaccharide. These beneficial effects were attributed to PAO’s capability to regulate the colonic microbiota and metabolic processes. PAO was found to enhance the diversity of the colonic microbiota and to shift the microbial balance in UC mice. Specifically, it restored the microbiota from an Akkermansia-dominated state, characteristic of UC, to a healthier Muribaculaceae-dominated composition. Furthermore, PAO corrected the colon metabolic disturbance in UC mice by modulating the purine metabolism, notably increasing the abundance of deoxyadenosine, adenosine and guanine in UC mice.

Conclusions

The therapeutic effect of PAO on UC and liver injury was mainly attributed to its regulation of colonic microbiota and purine metabolism. These insights emphasize the overall therapeutic benefits of PAO in treating UC and liver injury.
Exploring family caregiver burdens and coping mechanisms for patients with comorbid neglected tropical diseases and mental illness in Southern Ethiopia: insights from qualitative findings
Authors: Sidamo Negussie Boti , Hebo Sultan Hussen , Kassahun Alemayehu Bekele , Endris Bilcha Oumer
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Millions globally suffer from neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and mental health conditions concurrently. Those with NTDs face heightened risks of mental health issues, and those with mental health conditions are more vulnerable to NTDs. Family caregivers of patients with both conditions often face significant burdens but are frequently overlooked as "hidden patients." Research on this issue is limited in Ethiopia.

Objective

This study explores the burdens and coping mechanisms of family caregivers for patients with comorbid NTDs and mental illness in Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

This qualitative phenomenological study engaged seventeen family caregivers of individuals with comorbid NTDs and mental illness. Participants were purposively selected to ensure the inclusion of individuals with rich, relevant experiences capable of providing profound insights into the phenomenon under study. To capture the in-depth experiences and perspectives of caregivers, semi-structured interviews were conducted in participants' homes or compound rooms, ensuring privacy and the prior acquisition of informed consent for audio-recording. The interviews were designed to provide a comfortable, natural setting conducive to open discussion. Transcripts were initially transcribed in Amharic and then translated into English, with each translation cross-verified against the original audio recordings to ensure accuracy. Data analysis followed an inductive thematic approach, allowing for themes and sub-themes to emerge organically from the data through multiple coding and validation cycles.

Results

Caregivers faced significant burdens in four main areas: physical, social, psychological, and economic. Physically, they undertook demanding tasks like bathing and feeding, leading to strain and health issues. Socially, they experienced isolation and stigma, impacting family contact and community participation. Psychologically, caregivers reported high stress, anxiety, and depression, compounded by managing both chronic conditions and societal stigma. Economically, they endured financial strain, including job loss or reduced working hours. Coping mechanisms included strong social support from family, friends, and community organizations, problem-solving techniques, self-care practices, and seeking emotional support.

Conclusion

Caregivers of patients with comorbid NTDs and mental illness in Southern Ethiopia experience substantial burdens across multiple dimensions. Effective coping mechanisms and robust social support are vital for alleviating these challenges and improving caregivers' well-being.
Clinical implications of real-time optic nerve sheath diameter assessment via critical care ultrasound in intracranial hypertension
Authors: Zhang Nan , Liang Meng , Shao Tenghao , Li Ning , Wang Kuo , Sun Shuo , Sun Tao
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study aims to assess the clinical value of dynamic monitoring of optic nerve sheath diameter using critical care ultrasound in the management of patients with intracranial hypertension.

Methods

A total of 130 patients with craniocerebral injuries, treated at the Department of Critical Care Medicine of the Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University from January 2021 to November 2022, were selected and randomly assigned to either the control group (65 patients) or the observation group (65 patients). Patients in both groups were monitored based on clinical symptoms, cranial CT findings, and optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). The control group received standard osmotic therapy to manage intracranial pressure (ICP), while the observation group was guided accordingly. Comparative analyses were conducted on Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores, duration of ICU stay, and mechanical ventilation time between the two groups.

Results

On the 28th day, the APACHE II scores of patients with craniocerebral injuries in both groups were significantly lower compared to admission scores, while GCS scores were higher (P < 0.05). Compared to conventional management, the observation group showed a 15% reduction in APACHE II scores, a 20% decrease in ICU stay duration, and a 25% reduction in mechanical ventilation time by day 28 post-admission. The observation group also showed a higher proportion of patients with favorable prognoses and a significant reduction in severe disability and vegetative survival rates (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Dynamic monitoring of ONSD using bedside critical care ultrasound has proven effective in guiding osmotic therapy for patients with intracranial hypertension. This approach significantly reduces ICP, offers a reliable basis to opt for subsequent treatments, and effectively lowers the rate of disability while improving patient prognosis.
Analysis of the burden of intracerebral hemorrhage in the Asian population aged 45 and older and ARIMA model prediction trends: a systematic study based on the GBD 2021
Authors: Xu Minghong , Tang Chao , Shen Yongkai , Zhang Yinan , Bao Long
Published: February 2025

Background

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), a severe subtype of hemorrhagic stroke, is associated with significant disability and high mortality rates. Due to population aging and the prevalence of hypertension in the Asian region, intracerebral hemorrhage has become one of the major causes of high disability and mortality. This study analyzes the epidemiological patterns of ICH across Asia from 1990 to 2021 and projects potential trends for the period 2022 to 2041.

Methods

This study extracted four key indicators related to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) from The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 database for the years 1990 to 2021: prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The age-period-cohort model was employed to assess the impact of age, time periods, and birth cohorts on ICH trends. Additionally, the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was utilized to conduct long-term trend analysis and forecast the changing trends of various indicators from 2022 to 2041.

Results

From 1990 to 2021, age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age-standardized disability-adjusted life-year rate (ASDR) of ICH in Asia exhibited an overall declining trend, the ASIR declined from 82.35 per 100,000 (95% UI: 70.73–93.35) to 52.35 per 100,000 (95% UI: 45.98–58.46). Similarly, the ASMR dropped from 92.02 per 100,000 (95% UI: 83.06–101.24) to 53.26 per 100,000 (95% UI: 47.61–58.96), while the ASDR fell from 2,094.51 per 100,000 (95% UI: 1,916.68–2,293.61) to 1,194.11 per 100,000 (95% UI: 1,072.05–1,306.04). The age effect demonstrated that the relative risk (RR) of ICH increases with age, peaking in the 90–94 age group. The period effect indicated that the risk did not increase over time, while the cohort effect suggested a declining trend in later-born cohorts. The ARIMA model’s predictions indicate that over the next 20 years, the age-standardized rates in Asia, except for prevalence, will generally show a declining trend.

Conclusion

The disease burden of ICH in Asia varies by gender and age group. According to ARIMA model predictions, while the overall burden of ICH is expected to decline over the next 20 years, the age-standardized prevalence rate is projected to increase due to population aging. Given the high mortality and disability rates associated with ICH, its disease burden remains significant and requires focused attention. Strengthening screening and hypertension management in high-risk elderly populations, along with community health education and early intervention, is recommended to reduce the risk of ICH.
Application of artificial intelligence in Alzheimer’s disease: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Song Sijia , Li Tong , Lin Wei , Liu Ran , Zhang Yujie
Published: February 2025

Background

Understanding how artificial intelligence (AI) is employed to predict, diagnose, and perform relevant analyses in Alzheimer’s disease research is a rapidly evolving field. This study integrated and analyzed the relevant literature from the Science Citation Index (SCI) and Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) on the application of AI in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), covering publications from 2004 to 2023.

Objective

This study aims to identify the key research hotspots and trends of the application of AI in AD over the past 20 years through a bibliometric analysis.

Methods

Using the Web of Science Core Collection database, we conducted a comprehensive visual analysis of literature on AI and AD published between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2023. The study utilized Excel, Scimago Graphica, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace software to visualize trends in annual publications and the distribution of research by countries, institutions, journals, references, authors, and keywords related to this topic.

Results

A total of 2,316 papers were obtained through the research process, with a significant increase in publications observed since 2018, signaling notable growth in this field. The United States, China, and the United Kingdom made notable contributions to this research area. The University of London led in institutional productivity with 80 publications, followed by the University of California System with 74 publications. Regarding total publications, the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease was the most prolific while Neuroimage ranked as the most cited journal. Shen Dinggang was the top author in both total publications and average citations. Analysis of reference and keyword highlighted research hotspots, including the identification of various stages of AD, early diagnostic screening, risk prediction, and prediction of disease progression. The “task analysis” keyword emerged as a research frontier from 2021 to 2023.

Conclusion

Research on AI applications in AD holds significant potential for practical advancements, attracting increasing attention from scholars. Deep learning (DL) techniques have emerged as a key research focus for AD diagnosis. Future research will explore AI methods, particularly task analysis, emphasizing integrating multimodal data and utilizing deep neural networks. These approaches aim to identify emerging risk factors, such as environmental influences on AD onset, predict disease progression with high accuracy, and support the development of prevention strategies. Ultimately, AI-driven innovations will transform AD management from a progressive, incurable state to a more manageable and potentially reversible condition, thereby improving healthcare, rehabilitation, and long-term care solutions.
The brain-gut axis and chronic pain: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities
Authors: Ho Tim , Elma Ömer , Kocanda Lucy , Brain Katherine , Lam Thao , Kanhere Tejas , Dong Huan-Ji
Published: February 2025

The brain-gut axis (BGA) is emerging as a critical mediator in chronic pain, involving bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal system. The “Pain Matrix” is associated with microbial dysbiosis, vagus nerve dysfunction, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation, driving neuroinflammation and central sensitization. Key mechanisms include microbial diversity loss, leaky gut, and altered neuroactive signaling via short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and vagal pathways. This narrative review explores the intricate interplay between BGA mechanisms and chronic pain, highlighting therapeutic opportunities such as restoring dysbiosis, modulating vagus nerve activity, and regulating endocrine pathways. These interventions target inflammation, autonomic balance, and stress/reward pathway modulation, offering a promising path toward integrative pain management. Further research is required to validate these strategies and improve patient outcomes.
Evaluation of long-term outcomes with intrathecal opioid treatment: a comparison utilizing data derived from pain clinic populations in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Comber Elouise Rose , Strong Jenny , Moore Orla , Khan Asaduzzaman , O’Callaghan James , Manion Benjamin , Moore Brendan Joseph , Smith Maree Therese
Published: February 2025

Introduction

An obstacle to analysis of the long-term effectiveness of intrathecal (IT) opioids is absence of historical patient baseline data. The electronic Persistent Pain Outcomes Collaboration (ePPOC) is an initiative of the Faculty of Pain Medicine of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists. Recently published ePPOC data has provided justifiable surrogate baseline data allowing opportunities for pain outcomes research into select patient treatment groups. Our aim was to compare long-term outcomes of IT opioid therapy with a surrogate baseline utilizing a large ePPOC data set for patients at the time of initial presentation to 36 pain clinics in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

Study participants were 49 consenting patients receiving IT opioids as part of a long-term pain management regime for treating chronic non-cancer pain. Their data were compared with the large ePPOC data set (n = 13,343). The questionnaires comprised a demographic questionnaire, the Brief Pain Inventory, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, the Pain Catastrophizing Questionnaire, and the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire.

Results

Compared with the ePOCC group, participants who received IT opioids long-term for the relief of chronic non-cancer pain reported significantly lower (p ≤ 0.001) pain severity (4.3 vs. 6.4), and pain interference scores (5.5 vs. 7), significantly lower depression (20.2 vs. 13.7), anxiety (9.6 vs. 14.1), stress (15.5 vs. 21), rumination (6.9 vs. 10), magnification (3.8 vs. 5.9), helplessness (9.7 vs. 14.1), general catastrophizing (20.4 vs. 29.8), and higher self-efficacy (29.5 vs. 20.7).

Discussion

The observed improvements in all measured pain variables have occurred in the context of comprehensive pain management, and therefore, may be attributable to pain reduction and not directly to IT opioid use or the device itself. Favourable pain management outcomes, in a select patient treatment group utilizing long-term IT opioid therapy, were demonstrated using the large-data ePPOC initiative, highlighting the research opportunities it provides.
Association of preoperative cerebral oxygenation with concurrent neurobehavioral scores in term neonates with congenital heart disease compared to healthy controls
Authors: Tran Nhu N. , Miner Anna , Adeleke Eniola , Phan Rene , Brady Ken M. , Brecht Mary-Lynn , Friedlich Philippe , Zhou Geena , Rajagopalan Vidya , Peterson Bradley S. , Votava-Smith Jodie K.
Published: February 2025

Objective

1st: To determine the association of cerebral oxygenation (rcSO2) and concurrent neurodevelopmental outcomes between neonates with congenital heart disease (CHD) and healthy controls. 2nd: To examine the association of cerebral fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE) with concurrent neurodevelopmental outcomes in the two groups. 3rd: To evaluate how type and severity of CHD influenced the associations in our primary and secondary objectives.

Study design

Our secondary analysis included 137 neonates (74 with CHD and 63 healthy controls). We used linear regression models to examine the association of the predictors (i.e., cerebral oxygenation, FTOE, type and severity of CHD) with the percentage of abnormal neurobehavioral scores (outcome). The models included the main effects of group, rcSO2, and a rcSO2-by-group interaction (examined differences between groups) with covariates of postconceptional age at exam, sex, ethnicity, and preductal peripheral oxygen saturation on the percentage of abnormal neurobehavioral scores. We also performed separate regression models separately in each group. We used these models for the 2nd and 3rd objectives, replacing rcSO2 with FTOE and type and severity of CHD as predictors.

Results

Neonates with CHD had lower rcSO2 values (67% vs. 79%; p < 0.001) and higher FTOE values (0.27 vs. 0.19; p < 0.001) compared to healthy controls. The association of rcSO2 with the neurobehavioral scores significantly differed between groups (p = 0.004). In the CHD group, increased rcSO2 showed a trend toward better neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, increased rcSO2 associated significantly with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes in the healthy group. Additionally, FTOE significantly differed between groups (p = 0.012). The CHD group showed a trend towards increased FTOE and poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes. Conversely, increased FTOE associated significantly with better neurodevelopmental outcomes in the healthy group.

Conclusions

The CHD and healthy neonates had significantly different associations of both rcSO2 and FTOE with the neurobehavioral scores. Our findings suggest that both increased and decreased rcSO2 and FTOE may negatively affect concurrent neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonates. Our findings also imply a critical range of rcSO2 values, where extreme oxygenation on either side may be harmful. Neonates with CHD and healthy controls may exhibit different neurodevelopmental responses to increased rcSO2 and FTOE due to differing metabolic demands.
Current usage of inclisiran for cardiovascular diseases: overview of current clinical trials
Authors: Harbi Maan H.
Published: February 2025

Background

Cardiovascular diseases are predominant health conditions across the world due to their rising prevalence and association with several disorders. Inclisiran, a small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy, lowers low density lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-C) by targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). Its exact role in cardiovascular diseases is not fully understood.

Aim

This review examines current usage of Inclisran for cardiovascular diseases.

Method

A detailed search of Clinicaltrials.gov was conducted to identify relevant studies that investigated heart diseases using Inclisran. Data on study design, sample size, intervention details, and outcomes related to Inclisran were extracted and analyzed.

Results

As of 30 December 2024, there were 92 clinical trials on involving inclisiran found at clinicaltrials.gov. The investigation focused on studies that used inclisiran for cardiovascular diseases and found that limited clinical trials were identified with limited interventional measures. The final number of analyzed trials was 11. The follow-up duration ranged from 270 to 1,695 days with a total of 214,176 participants with a favorable safety profile and twice-yearly dosing after initial loading dose. The collective findings from these trials demonstrated effective LDL-C and PCSK9 lowering compared to baseline measurements. Most studies focused on LDL-C lowering rather than measuring cardiovascular outcomes.

Conclusion

Although the studies showed inclisiran to lower LDL-C effectively, the evidence is still limited with regards to cardiovascular outcomes data. There is a need for real world studies addressing long-term safety, adherence and cost-effectiveness and therapeutic outcomes of combination therapy.
Model-guided development of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic cut-offs and evaluation of sitafloxacin dosing regimens against target pathogens
Authors: Wu Hailan , Li Yi , Li Xin , Fan Yaxin , Guo Beining , Liu Xiaofen , Li Wanzhen , Chen Mengting , Chen Yan , Zhang Jing
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The establishment of clinical breakpoints for antimicrobial drug is crucial for guiding appropriate therapeutic interventions. This study aims to identify the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) cut-offs for using sitafloxacin against target pathogens to support clinical breakpoint establishment for antimicrobial drug sensitivity testing.

Methods

A population PK (PopPK) model was built (342 subjects) to calculate the dosing-regimen-dependent (50 mg q12 h, 100 mg q24 h and 100 mg q12 h) PK parameters of sitafloxacin-infected patients, which were combined with in vitro PD data and PK/PD target data. The probabilities of attainment (PTAs) and cumulative fraction of response (CFR) values for different sitafloxacin dosing regimens against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were calculated via Monte Carlo simulation.

Results

PopPK modelling revealed that the PK profile of sitafloxacin was consistent with a two-compartment model with first-order elimination. Creatinine clearance affected total clearance, bodyweight and age affected the central ventricular apparent volume of distribution, and food affected the sitafloxacin absorption rate. On the basis of the animal infection model target (fAUC24h/MIC = 11.56), the anti-Streptococcus pneumoniae sitafloxacin dosing regimen PTAs were >95% (MIC ≤ 0.06, ≤0.06, ≤0.125 mg/L; CFRs = 98.2∼99.3%). With a clinical study target of fAUC24h/MIC ≥ 30, the anti-Streptococcus pneumoniae dosing regimen PTAs were >95% (MIC ≤ 0.03, ≤0.03, ≤0.06 mg/L; CFRs = 89.2∼97.3%). For the other four strains, the dosing-regimen-dependent sitafloxacin PK/PD cut-offs were 0.06, 0.06 and 0.125 mg/L, respectively (CFRs = 56.3∼76.9%).

Discussion

Our findings suggest that sitafloxacin PK/PD cut-offs of S ≤ 0.06 mg/L and R > 0.125 mg/L should be used against these five strains and that the sitafloxacin dosing regimens (50 mg q12 h, 100 mg q24 h and 100 mg q12 h) have the expected efficacy against Streptococcus pneumoniae-related infections, but the efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa-associated infections needs to be verified in clinical practice.
Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses reveal the molecular mechanism of flower color differentiation in Orychophragmus violaceus
Authors: Shi Yubin , Wang Zixuan , Yan Zhuangzhuang , Liu Jianfeng , Zhang Jun , Liu Guixia
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Orychophragmus violaceus is a popular horticultural plant because of its bright purple flowers that are commonly found in parks and green belts. However, three flower colors (purple, light purple, and white) were observed in the wild-type O. violaceus. The molecular mechanism underlying the formation of these intriguing flower colors remains unknown.

Methods

Here, we combined metabolomics and transcriptomics to identify a pathway cascade leading to anthocyanin biosynthesis associated with flower color formation in O. violaceus.

Results and discussion

A total of 152 flavonoid metabolites were identified based on metabolomic data, most of which were quercetin and kaempferol. Comparative analysis of the metabolites among the three flower samples revealed that two anthocyanins, peonidin-3-glucoside and delphinidin 3-(6’’-malonyl-glucoside), are the pigments most likely responsible for the coloration of the petals of O. violaceus. Subsequent transcriptomic analysis revealed 5,918 differentially expressed genes among the three groups of flowers, 87 of which encoded 13 key enzymes in the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway. Moreover, the high expression of two transcription factors, OvMYB and OvbHLH, in purple flowers suggests their role in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis. By integrating metabolomic and transcriptomic data, OvANS, which encodes anthocyanidin synthase, was significantly upregulated in purple flowers. OvANS is the enzyme responsible for the transformation of colorless leucoanthocyanidins to colored anthocyanidins. This study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanism of flower color development in O. violaceus, laying the foundation for flower color breeding.
Validation of suitable reference microRNAs for qRT-PCR in Osmanthus fragrans under abiotic stress, hormone and metal ion treatments
Authors: Zhang Yingting , Yan Qingyu , Xia Hui , Yang Jie , Zeng Xiangling , Li Zeqing , Cai Xuan , Zou Jingjing , Chen Hongguo
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Sweet osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) is a prominent woody ornamental plant extensively utilized in horticulture, the food industry, cosmetics, and traditional Chinese medicine. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of gene regulation, playing a vital role in enabling plants to adapt to environmental fluctuations. Despite their significance, research on miRNA expression in O. fragrans under adverse stress conditions remains limited. Therefore, the selection of appropriate reference miRNAs is essential to ensure accurate miRNA expression analysis.

Methods

In this study, qRT-PCR technology was combined with four algorithms (i.e., delta-Ct, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper) to systematically evaluate the expression stability of 14 candidate miRNAs across eleven environmental conditions, including under abiotic stress, under hormone and metal ion treatments, during flower opening and senescence, and across various tissues.

Results

The results revealed that under hormone treatments, ofr-miR159b-3p, novel8, and novel3 exhibited high expression stability; under abiotic stress, ofr-miR159b-3p, novel8, ofr-miR403-3p, and novel2 demonstrated considerable stability; during metal ion treatments, novel3, ofr-miR159b-3p, novel33, novel2, and ofr-miR395e were identified as stable miRNAs; in different tissues, novel2 and ofr-miR395e were relatively stable; and during flower opening and senescence, novel33 and ofr-miR395e maintained stable expression.

Discussion

This study represents the first comprehensive assessment of reference miRNA stability in O. fragrans, providing a reliable framework for miRNA expression analysis under diverse conditions, including flower development and senescence, abiotic stress, hormone treatments, and metal ion treatments. These findings carry significant implications for future research into the function of miRNAs.
The impact of social media use on tolerance, community peace, online ethical awareness among adolescents in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Al Ketbi Najia , Habes Mohammed , Shaheen Lubna , Attar Razaz Waheeb , Tahat Dina , Alhazmi Amal Hassan
Published: February 2025

Social media use has increased after the COVID-19, indicating several effects on users. Talking specifically about its effects on adolescents, several studies have witnessed its positive and negative consequences on young users. This research also aims to examine the positive effects of social media use on adolescents from a Media Mindfulness Perspective, including tolerance, community peace, and online ethical awareness. Theoretically supported by Social Learning Theory, the data were gathered using 379 structured questionnaires. Results indicated an overall positive influence of social media use on adolescents in UAE. It is found that social media use positively affects tolerance among adolescents, suggesting an improved tolerance among the relevant users. Also, the effect of social media uses on community peace remained positive, implying that digital platforms are constructive means of teaching peace and harmony. Finally, results also indicated the positive effects of social media use on online ethical awareness among adolescents in UAE. Overall, these results suggest a positive, constructive role of social media use in changing the behaviors of the young generation. Under the social learning theory, this study also suggested social media as a powerful tool for learning positive behaviors, further influencing and improving societal peace and harmony. Finally, the study’s significance and limitations are discussed.
Cross-cultural adaptation and content validation of the Nurses’ Professionalism Inventory to the Portuguese context: a methodological study
Authors: Ribeiro Marlene Patrícia , Gasparino Renata Cristina , Ribeiro Olga Maria Pimenta Lopes
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Nurses’ professionalism is linked to the profession’s principles and plays a crucial role in the quality and safety of care in the current context of complexity in healthcare systems. In the Portuguese context, no instrument allows evaluation of the nurses’ professionalism, which led to the objective of cross-culturally adapting and validating the content of the Nurses’ Professionalism Inventory for the Portuguese context.

Methods

A methodological study was carried out and comprised six stages: translation, synthesis, back-translation, committee of experts, pre-test, and approval of the process by the original author developer of the instrument.

Results

The first three stages were completed without difficulty. Nine experts were part of the committee to validate the instrument content. They evaluated items’ semantic, idiomatic, cultural, and conceptual equivalences, clarity, and relevance. Modified Kappa and Content Validity Index were calculated for all assessments. Seven items were submitted in two rounds to achieve consensus in the assessments. The usability of the instrument was tested in the fifth stage. Forty nurses performed the pre-test and agreed that the instructions, items, and response options of the Portuguese version of the Nurses’ Professionalism Inventory were easy to understand at 95.00, 97.50, and 92.50%, respectively. The author who developed the original instrument analyzed and approved the entire process carried out.

Discussion

The cross-cultural adaptation of the Nurses’ Professionalism Inventory to the Portuguese context was carried out according to international recommendations, and the conclusion of this study will provide an instrument to assess the nurses’ professionalism in Portugal.
A topic modeling-based analysis of emerging mobility services for carbon emission reduction
Authors: Li Yang , Lei Yutian , Wu Zezhou , Wang Jiahao , Pei Tianjia , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour
Published: February 2025

Introduction

With rising urbanization and global climate change, sustainable city development has become an urgent challenge. Emerging mobility services provide innovative solutions for sustainable city governance, bridging the gap between transportation demand and supply, alleviating city travel and reducing carbon emissions. However, further investigation is needed to ascertain the specific roles and potential enhancements that emerging mobility services could contribute to reducing carbon emissions.

Methods

In this study, a systematic search of the Web of Science Core Collection using relevant keywords yielded 431 articles. After screening, 225 articles were deemed relevant, meeting the following criteria: (1) the articles focused on emerging mobility services, and (2) they explored the relationship between these services, carbon emissions, and environmental impacts. These articles were then synthesized using the Potential Dirichlet Allocation Model.

Results

This study identifies four key research questions using the Potential Dirichlet Allocation Model: “Emerging Mobility’s Environmental Impacts,” “Policy-Led Sustainable Mobility Services,” “User-Centric Mobility Services,” and “Cost-Benefit Analysis of Electrification.” Assessments of the theme strengths track their evolution over time, highlighting the increasing importance of policy-led development and user-centered optimization.

Discussion

The study has shown that emerging mobility services have the potential to reduce carbon emissions; however, the extent of this impact varies by region, service type, and other factors. Policy strategies play a crucial role in promoting the development of new and emerging transport services. These findings contribute to the sustainable development of these services, the reduction of carbon emissions, and the improvement of urban living conditions.
Spherical model for Minimalist Machine Learning paradigm in handling complex databases
Authors: Jimenez-Cruz Raúl , Yáñez-Márquez Cornelio , Gonzalez-Mendoza Miguel , Villuendas-Rey Yenni , Monroy Raúl
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the development of the N-Spherical Minimalist Machine Learning (MML) classifier, an innovative model within the Minimalist Machine Learning paradigm. Using N-spherical coordinates and concepts from metaheuristics and associative models, this classifier effectively addresses challenges such as data dimensionality and class imbalance in complex datasets. Performance evaluations using the F1 measure and balanced accuracy demonstrate its superior efficiency and robustness compared to state-of-the-art classifiers. Statistical validation is conducted using the Friedman and Holm tests. Although currently limited to binary classification, this work highlights the potential of minimalist approaches in machine learning for classification of highly dimensional and imbalanced data. Future extensions aim to include multi-class problems and mechanisms for handling categorical data.
Vulnerability and threat: describing gay male victimologies in South Africa by analysing online community reports
Authors: Van Der Schyff Marchant
Published: February 2025

This study examines the phenomenon of violence towards gay men in South Africa, focusing on its portrayal and understanding within online media. Using a qualitative approach, it explores how online reports construct, interpret, and contest narratives surrounding these attacks. The investigation aims to highlight the portrayal of the victimology of gay men and the societal dynamics, including gender-based violence, abduction, victimisation, and queercide, in the South African context. The research analysed online reports, between 2022 and 2024, by a community organisation on cases of violence perpetrated against gay men. The research found that media frames about the circumstances of violence, the role of social media or hookup apps, and demographic details of gay men can provide insights into their victimhood. This contributes to the understanding of the challenges gay men face in navigating their identities and safety in South Africa. The findings show that Gauteng, Cape Town, and Durban remain the most affected by attacks against gay men and provide more insight into the strata of the age of victims, their movement, and the nature of attacks. By identifying how online community media frames these cases, the study offers insights into the emergence of gangsterism and the use of mobile technologies to target these men. It can inform strategies for social change and foster inclusive environments for marginalised communities. The findings have implications for advocacy, policy making, and community empowerment efforts addressing queercide and promoting LGBTIQ+ rights and safety.
Mixed supplementation of dietary inorganic and organic selenium modulated systemic health parameters and fecal microbiota in weaned pigs
Authors: Kyoung Hyunjin , Shin Ikcheol , Kim Younghoon , Cho Jin Ho , Park Kyeong Il , Kim Yonghee , Ahn Jinmu , Nam Jinuk , Kim Kimoon , Kang Yonggu , Kim Hyeun Bum , Song Minho
Published: February 2025

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary mixed selenium [MSe: inorganic selenium (ISe) + organic selenium (OSe)] levels on the growth performance, blood parameters, and fecal microbiota of weaned pigs. In a randomized complete block design (block = initial body weight), 156 weaned pigs were allotted to three dietary treatments (4 pigs per pen; 13 replicates per treatment) for 42 days. Dietary treatments included (1) a non-Se-fortified diet based on corn and soybean meal (CON), (2) CON + 0.15 ppm ISe and 0.15 ppm OSe (MSe3), and (3) CON + 0.25 ppm ISe and 0.25 ppm OSe (MSe5). Pigs fed both MSe diets showed no effects on growth performance or diarrhea frequency compared with those fed the CON diet. However, pigs fed MSe3 and MSe5 had higher serum interleukin-6 (p = 0.021, linear p = 0.011) on day 7 and higher Se concentrations (p = 0.002, linear p = 0.001) on day 42 than those fed the CON. In addition, pigs fed different levels of MSe exhibited quadratic (p = 0.054) and linear (p = 0.069) effects on the number of white blood cells and hematocrit on day 42 compared with those fed CON, respectively. Moreover, the MSe3 group had higher total protein concentration (p = 0.049, quadratic p = 0.026) on day 42 than the CON group, and the MSe5 group had lower blood urea nitrogen concentration (p = 0.094, linear p = 0.033). There were no differences in alpha diversity indices of fecal microbiota among dietary treatments. However, beta diversity indices based on the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity were clustered differently (r2 = 0.56, p = 0.001) among dietary treatments. Pigs fed the MSe5 diet showed an increase in the relative abundance of phylum Bacteroidetes [false discovery rate (FDR) adjusted p = 0.004], families Barnesiellaceae (FDR adjusted p = 0.006) and Veillonellaceae (FDR adjusted p = 0.006), genera Barnesiella (FDR adjusted p = 0.023) and Megasphaera (FDR adjusted p = 0.023), and species Barnesiella intestinihominis (FDR adjusted p = 0.016) and Megasphaera elsdenii (FDR adjusted p = 0.019) compared with those fed the CON diet. In conclusion, dietary MSe modulated the systemic health parameters and fecal microbial community in weaned pigs.
The Impact of Place-Based Approaches Addressing Mental Health and Substance Use Among Adolescents: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Rehill Nirandeep , Halvorsrud Kristoffer , Shand Jenny , Fonagy Peter , Raine Rosalind
Published: February 2025

Objectives

We systematically appraised peer reviewed evidence assessing the impact of “place-based approaches” (PBAs) – those requiring multi-sectoral action within localities to address complex health challenges – on mental health outcomes among adolescents.

Methods

We searched six databases from inception to May 2023. We defined PBAs as at least two sectors (e.g., local government, health) working collaboratively within a locality. Studies reporting mental health and substance-use among young people (aged 10–24) were included. Two authors independently assessed study quality using MMAT. Heterogeneity in PBAs, study design and outcomes prevented meta-analysis; results were narratively synthesised.

Results

Thirty-three publications presented data from 22 PBA evaluations; 6 evaluations assessed mental health or wellbeing, 16 appraised substance use. Higher quality evaluations found no impact on mental health outcomes (n = 4), and some evidence for delayed initiation (n = 4) and reduced point-in-time use (n = 10) of alcohol. Evidence for impact on binge-drinking and drug use was mixed.

Conclusion

Based on very few published studies of mixed quality, PBAs have not improved mental health or wellbeing among adolescents. More evidence exists to suggest PBAs can improve certain alcohol use outcomes in young people.