bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel fluorescein sodium-based screening platform for the identification of sphingoid base-producing Wickerhamomyces ciferrii mutants
Authors: Kang Jun Su , Lee Seong-Rae , Lee Minju , Kim Eunha , Lee Pyung Cheon
Published: February 2025

The efficient identification of microbial strains capable of producing rare sphingoid bases, such as sphingosine and sphinganine, is critical for advancing microbial fermentation processes and addressing increasing industrial demands. Wickerhamomyces ciferrii, a non-conventional yeast, naturally overproduces tetraacetyl phytosphingosine (TAPS); however, the production of other valuable sphingoid bases, including sphingosine, sphinganine, and triacetyl sphingosine, remains a key target. In this study, we developed a novel screening method utilizing fluorescein sodium, a selective fluorescent dye that specifically reacts with non-acetylated sphingoid bases—sphinganine, sphingosine, and phytosphingosine—while exhibiting no reactivity with TAPS. A mutant library of W. ciferrii was generated via gamma-ray mutagenesis and screened using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Mutants exhibiting high fluorescence intensity, indicative of non-acetylated or partially acetylated sphingoid base production, were isolated through three rounds of sorting and further validated via HPLC analysis. This approach successfully identified three mutant strains: P41C3 (sphingosine-producing), M01_5 (sphinganine-producing), and P41E7 (triacetyl sphingosine-producing). Among them, the P41C3 mutant achieved a sphingosine titer of 36.7 mg/L during shake-flask cultivation, accompanied by a significant reduction in TAPS production, indicating a redirection of metabolic flux. This study demonstrates the utility of fluorescein sodium as a selective screening dye for sphingoid base-producing strains and establishes an effective platform for the metabolic engineering of W. ciferrii to enhance the production of industrially significant sphingolipids.
Analysis of the influence of exogenous factors on indoor air quality in residential buildings
Authors: Nibagwire Deborah , Ana Godson R. E. E. , Kalisa Egide , Twagirayezu Gratien , Safari Kagabo Abdou , Nsengiyumva Jacques
Published: February 2025

Indoor air pollution presents a significant global health risk, yet the influence of outdoor air pollution and meteorological factors on indoor air quality is not well understood. This study investigates these impacts in 88 naturally ventilated households across urban, suburban, and industrial areas, with no indoor smoking or cooking. Air quality measurements were continuously recorded for 24 h a day over six consecutive days during the wet season. The findings reveal that the outdoor PM2.5 levels consistently exceeded indoor levels, with weekday concentrations higher than on weekends. Specifically, urban PM2.5 levels averaged 34.8 μg/m³ outdoors and 31 μg/m³ indoors on weekdays, compared to 33.1 μg/m³ outdoors and 31.5 μg/m³ indoors on weekends. Indoor CO2 levels were notably higher, peaking at 525.7 ppm in urban areas on weekdays and 576.9 ppm on weekends, driven by increased occupancy and poor ventilation, particularly in suburban areas (880.4 ppm on weekdays and 807.5 ppm on weekends). The average indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratio for PM2.5 was 0.94, indicating that indoor concentrations are about 94% of outdoor levels, signifying significant infiltration of outdoor pollution. In contrast, the I/O ratio for CO2 was 1.47, suggesting indoor levels were 47% higher due to limited ventilation and indoor sources. This study concludes that outdoor air pollution and meteorological factors significantly affect indoor air quality in Kigali, Rwanda, highlighting the need for effective management of both outdoor pollution sources and indoor conditions.
Targeting metabolic reprogramming in glioblastoma as a new strategy to overcome therapy resistance
Authors: D’Aprile Simona , Denaro Simona , Gervasi Anna , Vicario Nunzio , Parenti Rosalba
Published: February 2025

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the deadliest tumors due to its high aggressiveness and resistance to standard therapies, resulting in a dismal prognosis. This lethal tumor carries out metabolic reprogramming in order to modulate specific pathways, providing metabolites that promote GBM cells proliferation and limit the efficacy of standard treatments. Indeed, GBM remodels glucose metabolism and undergoes Warburg effect, fuelling glycolysis even when oxygen is available. Moreover, recent evidence revealed a rewiring in nucleotide, lipid and iron metabolism, resulting not only in an increased tumor growth, but also in radio- and chemo-resistance. Thus, while on the one hand metabolic reprogramming is an advantage for GBM, on the other hand it may represent an exploitable target to hamper GBM progression. Lately, a number of studies focused on drugs targeting metabolism to uncover their effects on tumor proliferation and therapy resistance, demonstrating that some of these are effective, in combination with conventional treatments, sensitizing GBM to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, GBM heterogeneity could lead to a plethora of metabolic alterations among subtypes, hence a metabolic treatment might be effective for proneural tumors but not for mesenchymal ones, which are more aggressive and resistant to conventional approaches. This review explores key mechanisms of GBM metabolic reprogramming and their involvement in therapy resistance, highlighting how metabolism acts as a double-edged sword for GBM, taking into account metabolic pathways that seem to offer promising treatment options for GBM.
Automated requirements engineering framework for agile model-driven development
Authors: Umar Muhammad Aminu , Lano Kevin , Abubakar Abdullahi Kutiriko
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Advances in requirements engineering, driven by various paradigms and methodologies, have significantly influenced software development practices. The integration of agile methodologies and model-driven development (MDE) has become increasingly critical in modern software engineering. MDE emphasizes the use of models throughout the development process, necessitating structured approaches for handling requirements written in natural language.

Methods

This paper proposes an automated requirements engineering framework for agile model-driven development to enhance the formalization and analysis of textual requirements. The framework employs machine learning models to extract essential components from requirements specifications, focusing specifically on class diagrams. A comprehensive dataset of requirements specification problems was developed to train and validate the framework's effectiveness.

Results

The framework was evaluated using comparative evaluation and two real-world experimental studies in the medical and information systems domains. The results demonstrated its applicability in diverse and complex software development environments, highlighting its ability to enhance requirements formalization.

Discussion

The findings contribute to the advancement of automated requirements engineering and agile model-driven development, reinforcing the role of machine learning in improving software requirements analysis. The framework's success underscores its potential for widespread adoption in software development practices.
Interventional closure of artificial vascular anastomotic fistula after aortic replacement: a case report
Authors: Hou Qingwang , Chen Tongfeng , Wang Xiaohu , Zhao Yipin , Chen Chong , Liu Yuhao
Published: February 2025

Two years ago, the patient suffered from type A aortic dissection. As a result, partial aortic dissection artificial vascular replacement and partial aortic arch artificial vascular replacement were performed. Six months after the operation, an anastomotic fistula in the ascending aorta was detected, which subsequently progressed to chronic heart failure of New York Heart Association (NYHA grade) class III. After eliminating the operation - related contraindications, the patient successfully had the fistula occluded through transcatheter ascending aorta - right atrial fistula in our hospital. After the operation, no abnormal shunt was found, and the short - term treatment effect was satisfactory.
cMyBP-C in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: gene therapy and small-molecule innovations
Authors: Wood Patrick T. , Seffrood Morgan A. , Colson Brett A. , Stelzer Julian E.
Published: February 2025

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disorder in the heart caused by variants in sarcomeric proteins that disrupt myocardial function, leading to hypercontractility, hypertrophy, and fibrosis. Optimal cardiac function relies on the precise coordination of thin and thick filament proteins that control the timing, magnitude of cellular force generation and relaxation, and in vivo systolic and diastolic function. Sarcomeric proteins, such as cardiac myosin binding protein C (cMyBP-C) play a crucial role in myocardial contractile function by modulating actomyosin interactions. Genetic variants in cMyBP-C are a frequent cause of HCM, highlighting its importance in cardiac health. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underpinning HCM and the rapidly advancing field of HCM translational research, including gene therapy and small-molecule interventions targeting sarcomere function. We will highlight novel approaches, including gene therapy using recombinant AAV vectors and small-molecule drugs targeting sarcomere function.
The sand-controlling and reservoir-controlling characteristics and exploration potential of the steep slope zone in the Huanghua Depression, Bohai Bay Basin, eastern China
Authors: Liu Haitao , Chen Yan , Wang Jufeng , Sun Deqiang , Tang Zijun , Zhang Chunming , Wu Fengcheng , Jiang Zhenglong
Published: February 2025

As an important oil and gas exploration target area in continental rift basins, the sedimentary bodies in the steep slope zone are mainly composed of glutenite, featuring proximal and rapid accumulation, forming glutenite reservoirs with high porosity and permeability, which are conducive to the storage of oil and gas. The activities of boundary faults not only control the spatial structure of the basin but also affect the material source supply, paleogeomorphic morphology and the changes in the accommodation space within the basin. Through the study of the Nanpu and Banqiao trough areas and the Cangdong - Xi’nanzhuang - Baigezhuang steep slope zone in the Huanghua Depression, the influence of the supply capacity, groove transport flux and the structural form of the catchment area on the development scale of the glutenite fan bodies is discussed in detail. The research shows that the glutenite bodies in the steep slope zone are adjacent to the hydrocarbon-generating depression, forming a good source-reservoir contact hydrocarbon supply mode, presenting a deep adjacent-source reservoir-forming structure, with superior reservoir-forming conditions and the characteristics of being prone to forming lithologic oil and gas reservoirs; the Xi’nanzhuang steep slope zone is a multi-layer adjacent-source reservoir-forming structure, with equally superior reservoir-forming conditions, which can form both lithologic and structural oil and gas reservoirs; while the Baigezhuang steep slope zone, due to its relatively far distance from the hydrocarbon-generating depression, shows the characteristics of multi-layer far-source reservoir formation, with relatively poor reservoir-forming conditions, and is more inclined to form structural oil and gas reservoirs. Through the division of different structural styles such as shovel-shaped, slope-flat type and fault-step type steep slope zones and the in-depth analysis of their sand control and reservoir control mechanisms, the decisive role of factors such as fault activities, paleogeomorphology and material source supply on the development of glutenite fan bodies and the reservoir-forming rules of oil and gas in the steep slope zone has been clarified, which provides strong geological theoretical support for further improving the exploration efficiency and reserve prediction of glutenite oil and gas reservoirs in the steep slope zone of the Bohai Bay Basin.
Enhancing design skills in art and design education
Authors: Oo Tun Zaw , Kadyirov Timur , Kadyjrova Lyajsan , Józsa Krisztián
Published: February 2025

Introduction

In art and design education, design-based learning (DBL) is crucial for students’ design skills enhancement. Moreover, students’ motivation plays a significant role in their creative performance in design education. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the impact of students’ DBL and motivation on their design skills development in art and design education.

Methods

Notably, 207 University students participated in the current experimental research. With the help of nonrandom sampling, the experimental group (102) and the control group (105) were divided. The experimental group was given the treatment with DBL and the control group with the traditional instructions.

Results and discussion

The findings showed that experimental students who were treated by the DBL performed better in design skills assessment than those who were given traditional instructions. However, no gender difference was found in the analysis of covariance in the design skills assessment. Students’ motivation, such as intrinsic motivation, achievement motivation, and failure-avoidance motivation also have significant impacts on their design skills development. These research findings encouraged educators to be able to use the DBL technique in their design skills instructions.
Using by-products for rehabilitating mine sites or degraded lands: systematic review and meta-analysis on phosphogypsum, phosphate sludge and sewage sludge
Authors: Guéablé Yao Kohou Donatien , Bohoussou N’Dri Yves , El Gharous Mohamed , El Mejahed Khalil , Hafidi Mohamed
Published: February 2025

Phosphogypsum (PG), phosphate sludge (PS), and sewage sludge (SS) are regarded by-products produced in huge amounts. However, PG, PS and SS are no longer considered as waste, but as valued resources in accordance with the circular economy's rules. Their management provides a serious environmental problem. In order to assess the impacts of SS, PS, and PG on soil physico-chemical parameters (pH, EC, OM, nutrients, and heavy metals) in response to diverse experimental settings, the purpose of the current study was to conduct a meta-analysis on previously published results. The VOSviewer program was used to construct bibliometric maps using the VOS mapping and grouping techniques. The findings indicated that there were statistically significant changes (P < 0.05) in electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), and pH in connection to the different by-products employed. The application of SS considerably elevated pH by 46.15% compared to the control. Furthermore, a beneficial effect on P and K was detected, regardless of the by-product used. Moreover, Cd, Pb, and Ni concentrations in SS treatments had a substantial reduction of 30.46%, 30.70%, and 18.07%, respectively. Cd, Pb, and Cu concentrations in PG treatments revealed a substantial decrease of 47.71%, 36.14%, and 46.01%, respectively. Based on the acquired data, PG, PS, and SS need to be regularly monitored and regulated. This study serves as an early investigation for the construction of a new approach to restore damaged land on mine sites by employing phosphate industry by-products and sludge for revegetation objectives.
Peto’s paradox: 2 problems 2 answers
Authors: Uzoigwe Chika Edward
Published: February 2025

Peto’s paradox throws down the gauntlet to researchers to explain why larger animals have the same cancer risk as more diminutive species, notwithstanding the much higher cellularity of the former. Any explanation of the paradox must also contend with the fact that larger animals have a greater longevity and thus longer for their greater number of cells to undergo mutagenesis. The Paradox comprises two questions. The first is why larger animals exhibit the same tumor risk as smaller animals. The second is why those with greater longevity do not have a higher cancer risk than more ephemeral species. The Paradox has appeared so elusive as it has been often assumed that any single explanation must account for both phenomena simultaneously. In reality Peto’s paradox comprises two problems with two distinct solutions.
The sentinels of coronary artery disease: heterogeneous monocytes
Authors: Chen Yanyu , Luo Daya , Gao Renzhuo , Wu Jinjing , Qiu Xingpeng , Zou Yang , Jian Yingchao , Zhang Shuhua
Published: February 2025

Monocytes are heterogeneous immune cells that play a crucial role in the inflammatory response during atherosclerosis, influencing the progression and outcome of the disease. In the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic diseases, such as coronary artery disease (CAD), monocytes not only serve as the initial sensors of endogenous and exogenous pathogenic factors, but also function as intermediators that bridge the circulatory system and localized lesions. In the bloodstream, heterogeneous monocytes, acting as sentinels, are rapidly recruited to atherosclerotic lesions, where they exhibit a heightened capacity to respond to various pathological stimuli upon detecting signals from damaged vascular endothelial cells. Clinical studies have demonstrated that the heterogeneity of monocytes in CAD patients presents both diversity and complexity, varying across different disease subtypes and pathological stages. This review explores the heterogeneity of monocytes in CAD, focusing on alterations in monocyte subset numbers, proportions, and the expression of functional receptors, as well as their correlations with clinical features. Additionally, we propose strategies to enhance the clinical utility value of monocyte heterogeneity and outline future research directions in the field of CAD. With the widespread application of high-parameter flow cytometry and single-cell sequencing technologies, it is anticipated that a comprehensive understanding of monocyte heterogeneity in CAD will be achieved, enabling the identification of disease-specific monocyte subtypes. This could offer new opportunities for improving the diagnosis and treatment of CAD.
Single-cell RNA-sequencing reveals cellular heterogeneity and immune microenvironment characteristics between ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid lymphoma and IgG4−related ophthalmic disease
Authors: Yang Yu , Wang Yujiao , Jin Xuelian , He Weimin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The molecular pathogenesis of ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma and IgG4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD) remains incompletely understood. Differentiating between the two diseases is vital given that the diagnostic evaluation and treatment approaches can vary significantly; this difficulty in distinction is exacerbated by the absence of specific biomarkers. This study aimed to investigate the differences between these two diseases based on their cellular composition, transcriptional heterogeneity, and the immune microenvironment using single-cell RNA transcriptional sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology.

Methods

We collected orbital lacrimal gland region tissue samples from three patients with MALT lymphoma and another three with IgG4-ROD and performed single-cell sequencing experiments. Subsequently, we conducted bioinformatics analyses, including cell subpopulation segmentation and inter-group comparison, tumor cell identification, functional enrichment analysis, and pseudotime trajectory analysis. Furthermore, we analyzed the cellular communication between tumor B-cell and T-cell subsets within the immune microenvironment of MALT lymphoma tissues. We performed immunofluorescence assays to verify the co-expression of receptor-ligand pairs.

Results

A total of six major cell subpopulations were identified, with B-cells and T-cells being the predominant cell types. All B-cell subpopulations in MALT lymphomas are malignant, exhibiting significant intratumoral and intertumoral heterogeneity. Reclustering of the T-cell subpopulation identified five major T-cell subpopulations. Pseudotime analysis revealed that CD4+ naive T-cells in MALT lymphoma patients were highly likely to differentiate into follicular helper T-cells, whereas, in IgG4-ROD patients, CD4+ naive T-cells were highly likely to differentiate into regulatory T-cells. Intercellular communication analysis revealed that the CD27-CD70 immune checkpoint receptor−ligand pair and CXCL13-CXCR5 chemokine receptor−ligand pair were significantly upregulated between malignant B-cells and T-cells subpopulations.

Conclusion

This study is the first to conduct a comparative single-cell transcriptome sequencing analysis of ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma and IgG4-ROD. Our results reveal the cellular composition, key pathways, and critical immune microenvironment implicated in the development of these two diseases. These findings provide important insights into the pathogenesis of these two diseases and highlight the differences between them.
Antibody responses in Burkinabe children against P. falciparum proteins associated with reduced risk of clinical malaria
Authors: Yuguchi Takaaki , Dankyi Benedicta O. , Rojrung Rattanaporn , Nagaoka Hikaru , Kanoi Bernard N. , Tiono Alfred B. , Nebie Issa , Ouedraogo Alphonse , Miura Kazutoyo , Sattabongkot Jetsumon , Sirima Sodiomon B. , Tsuboi Takafumi , Takashima Eizo
Published: February 2025

Individuals residing in malaria-endemic regions with high disease transmission can develop semi-immunity within five years of age. Although understanding the target of the IgGs in this age group helps discover novel blood-stage vaccine candidates and serological markers, it has not been well elucidated due to limited accessibility to plasmodial antigens and samples. This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of antibody levels in plasma obtained from Burkinabe children (n=80, aged 0 to 5 years) to 1307 Plasmodium falciparum proteins expressed by the eukaryotic wheat germ cell-free system. Antibody levels were measured by AlphaScreen. We found that 98% of antigens were immunoreactive. The number of reactive antigens by the individual was correlated with increasing age. The most significant increases in seroprevalence occur during the first 2 years of life. By correlating antibody levels and the number of clinical malaria during a 1-year follow-up period, we identified 173 potential protein targets which might be associated with clinical immunity. These results provide valuable insights into how children acquired semi-immunity to malaria in their early lives.
Natural products for the treatment of ulcerative colitis: focus on the JAK/STAT pathway
Authors: Long Dan , Mao Chenhan , Zhang Wei , Zhu Ying , Xu Yin
Published: February 2025

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an autoimmune disease with an incompletely understood pathogenesis. The Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway plays a key role in immune response and inflammation. More and more studies demonstrated that JAK/STAT signaling pathway is associated with the pathogenesis of UC. The JAK/STAT pathway affects UC in multiple ways by regulating intestinal inflammatory response, affecting intestinal mucosal barrier, modulating T cell homeostasis, and regulating macrophages. Encouragingly, natural products are promising candidates for the treatment of UC. Natural products have the advantage of being multi-targeted and rich in therapeutic modalities. This review summarized the research progress of JAK/STAT pathway-mediated UC. Furthermore, the latest studies on natural products targeting the JAK/STAT pathway for the treatment of UC were systematically summarized, including active ingredients such as arbutin, aloe polysaccharide, berberine, matrine, curcumin, Ginsenoside Rh2, and so on. The aim of this paper is to provide new ideas for drug development to regulate JAK/STAT signaling for treating UC.
Case Report: HLA-DRB1 04:01 found in a child with adenovirus type 2 -linked hepatitis
Authors: Katsumi Yoshiki , Nishimura Yui , Goto Sachiko , Ozawa Seiichiro , Nishiura Tomoko , Kotera Akira , Kawahara Yoshiyuki , Higashikawa Shiori , Iwasaki Rina , Toriiminami Yutaka , Asai Norio , Fujita Naohisa
Published: February 2025

Since 2022, cases of hepatitis of unknown origin have been reported in children worldwide. Adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2) was identified as a cause, with most affected children having the HLA-DRB1 04:01 genotype. In this study, we hypothesized that HLA-DRB1 04:01 in the host may also be a potential predisposing factor of acute hepatitis caused by other viruses. We report a case that met the definition of severe hepatitis of unknown cause in a child; adenovirus type 2 (AV2) was detected in her specimens. The patient was a 1-year-old girl who visited a doctor because of fever occurring 1–2 days per week, respiratory symptoms, and diarrhea. One month later, the patient was referred to our hospital because of prolonged elevated liver enzyme concentrations. Two weeks after the initial visit, her aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) concentrations increased to 1558 and 1843 IU/L, respectively. The patient’s liver enzyme concentrations decreased markedly with only observation and intravenous hydration during hospitalization within a few days. Thereafter, hepatic enzymes were transiently elevated with each common cold, but all recovered spontaneously. The adenovirus (AV) antibody levels increased substantially 2 weeks after admission. The patient’s human leukocyte antigen (HLA) was determined to be of the DRB1 04:01 genotype. The presence of HLA-DRB1 04:01 is consistent with that reported in pediatric patients with AAV2 hepatitis in the United Kingdom, indicating that it may have been involved in the host immune response and acute hepatitis in this child. HLA-DRB1 04:01 may predispose children to acute hepatitis from various viruses, including AV2, AAV2, and possibly respiratory viruses, which requires clinical attention.
Effect of dietary Clostridium butyricum supplementation on growth performance, immune function, and intestinal health of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂)
Authors: Chen Weijun , Song Tao , Li Dong , Chen Mingfan , Wang Pan , Ye Jidan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of supplementing Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum) on hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂), with a particular focus on its impact on growth performance, blood composition, intestinal antioxidant capacity, gut microbiota, tight junction protein (ZO-1) expression, and inflammatory gene expression. The study seeks to uncover the potential health benefits of C. butyricum supplementation for hybrid grouper.

Methods

The experiment included four groups: a control group (CON) and three experimental groups, each supplemented with different strains of C. butyricum (KM, DZN, and CLH), with a concentration of 1 × 10⁷ colony-forming units per gram. These groups were designated as CB1 (KM), CB2 (DZN), and CB3 (CLH). The study evaluated growth performance, blood composition, intestinal antioxidant capacity, gut microbiota, ZO-1 protein expression, and inflammatory gene expression (IL-1β and Ikk-β).

Result

The results indicated that supplementation with C. butyricum had no significant effect on body weight gain (WG), feed efficiency (FE), or body composition. However, the CB3 group significantly increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the intestine, as well as the expression of ZO-1. In addition, the CB3 group significantly increased serum lysozyme (LZM) activity, complement 4 (C4) levels, and immunoglobulin M (IgM) concentration, while significantly reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory genes (IL-1β and Ikk-β). After supplementation with C. butyricum, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the intestine was significantly lower than that in the control group, indicating a reduction in intestinal oxidative stress. Supplementation with C. butyricum also altered the composition of the gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting pathogenic bacteria, thereby further enhancing ZO-1 expression and intestinal barrier function.

Discussion

This study suggests that supplementing C. butyricum has a significant immunomodulatory effect on hybrid grouper, enhancing serum immune parameters, alleviating intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress, and promoting intestinal health. Although no significant impact was observed on growth performance, the role of C. butyricum in improving intestinal barrier function and modulating the gut microbiota highlights its potential for enhancing fish health.
Design and validation of a cross-cultural virtual exchange experience among bilingual medical students
Authors: Vaile John R. , Doran Cierrah , Maheu Arlene R. , Jaramillo Valentina , Perez-Chadid Daniela A. , Fernandez Tomas , Walkosak Carissa C. , Velez Dinah Roll , Osorio Sara Carolina Bedoya , Seebadri-White Courtney , Truong Susan , Papanagnou Dimitrios , Fernandez Andres , Frasso Rosemary
Published: February 2025

Exposure to cross-cultural medical education is essential for professionals aiming to work in global health or serve diverse communities. However, traditional in-person exchange programs can be complex, costly, and restricted, particularly during times when travel is limited, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges prompted us to explore novel approaches to support cross-cultural exchange programs. We designed, piloted, and evaluated a cross-cultural virtual exchange experience using case-based learning (CBL). Our study involved 14 bilingual medical students from the United States and Colombia who participated in four virtual CBL sessions. Following each session, participants engaged in guided discussions to reflect on their attitudes toward the experience, and content analysis was framed by sociocultural learning theory (SCLT). This study provides justification and operational guidance for implementing and improving upon cross-cultural virtual exchange experiences among medical trainees, with potential applicability to other contexts.
The impact of chronic diseases and lifestyle on sarcopenia risk in older adults: a population-based longitudinal study
Authors: Wei Wu-xiao , Mao Zhen-fang , Chen Meng-li , Meng Lian
Published: February 2025

Background

Sarcopenia, characterized by the gradual decline of muscle mass and strength, seriously affects the health and mobility of older adults. The purpose of this study is to investigate the risk factors for sarcopenia, particularly the relationship between chronic diseases and lifestyle factors in individuals aged 60 and over.

Methods

This study used data from the Longitudinal Study on Health and Retirement in China (CHARLS) collected in 2011 and 2015. All eligible participants were classified according to the standards established by the Asian Sarcopenia Working Group in 2019. The evaluation of sarcopenia was based on a comprehensive score across five dimensions: strength, assistance in walking, rise from a chair, climb stairs, and falls. A multivariate logistic regression model was employed to explore the risk factors for sarcopenia.

Results

The risk of sarcopenia is significantly influenced by multiple factors. Key findings include the association between past drinking and an increased risk of sarcopenia (HR = 2.198, 95% CI: 1.072–4.560, p < 0.05), indicating that individuals with a history of drinking have more than twice the risk of sarcopenia compared to non-drinkers. Chronic diseases such as stroke were also associated with a significantly elevated risk (HR = 3.137, 95% CI: 1.128–8.721, p < 0.05). Conversely, participation in social activities significantly reduced the risk of sarcopenia (HR = 0.482, 95% CI: 0.265–0.876, p < 0.05). A three-piece spline regression model revealed a nonlinear relationship between physical activity and the risk of sarcopenia, characterized by an initial decline in risk followed by an increase as physical activity levels rose. Moderate-intensity physical activity reduced the risk of sarcopenia by approximately 35% (HR ≈ 0.65). However, high-intensity physical activity led to a rebound in risk, increasing the likelihood of sarcopenia relative to moderate activity. Similarly, adequate sleep duration was associated with a reduced risk of sarcopenia, whereas excessive sleep counteracted this benefit.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the critical role of lifestyle modifications and balanced physical activity in mitigating the risk of sarcopenia among older adults. Implementing targeted interventions for high-risk groups is essential to reduce the incidence of sarcopenia.
Citrate as a safe and effective alternative to heparin for catheter locking: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lai Binbin , Huang Weixing , Yu Hui , Chen Tingting , Gao Yimen , Wang Wei , Luo Hua
Published: February 2025

Background

Consensus on the use of citrate vs.heparin for catheter locking remains elusive, with ongoing controversy. This meta-analysis investigates the efficacy and safety of citrate lock solutions compared to heparin lock solutions in preventing catheter-related complications.

Methods

The review process was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Two independent reviewers conducted literature searches based on preferred reporting items from systematic reviews and meta-analyses. PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies comparing citrate and heparin in patients with catheter. Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), catheter-related infection (CRI), exit-site infection (ESI), and adverse events were analyzed.

Results

The meta-analysis included 17 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), encompassing 247,431 catheter-days, with 128,904 in the citrate group, and 118,527 in the heparin group. Citrate lock solutions significantly reduced the incidence of CRBSI compared to heparin (RR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.31–0.73), particularly when combined with antibiotics or used at low concentrations. No significant differences were observed between the groups for CRI, ESI, catheter dysfunction, or local bleeding. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses addressed heterogeneity, confirming the robustness of the primary findings.

Conclusions

Citrate lock solutions effectively prevent CRBSI without increasing systemic coagulation dysfunction or bleeding risk. Citrate lock solutions are a safe and effective alternative to heparin, especially when combined with antibiotics.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024562511.
Person-centered workplace culture: insights from an inpatient department for older adults with chronic illnesses
Authors: Vareta Diana , Oliveira Célia , Ventura Filipa
Published: February 2025

Introduction

An aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions challenge healthcare systems in developed countries. In response, there is a growing emphasis on person-centered care, as advocated by the World Health Organization and integrated into national health strategies in countries such as the UK and Sweden. However, transitioning to person-centered care is a complex, long-term process shaped by organizational culture and care environments. These contextual factors play crucial roles in the development and sustainability of person-centered practice, significantly transforming the experiences of both older adults and staff.

Objective

To describe how workplace culture within an inpatient hospital department shapes person-centered care practices for older adults with chronic illnesses.

Methods

A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory-observational study was performed. Data were collected through participant observation guided by the Workplace Culture Critical Analysis Tool®. In a deductive thematic content analysis, data patterns of meaning were identified. The themes were generated underpinned by the Person-Centered Practice Framework dimensions of prerequisites, the practice environment, and person-centered processes and their respective constructs.

Results

Themes related to all person-centered practice dimensions were identified. Task demands during shifts create tension between routine-oriented work and the holistic, individualized approach required for person-centeredness. The absence of systematic multiprofessional team meetings further exacerbates this issue, limiting collaborative decision-making and personalized care planning. The contrasts in some subthemes may be related to discrepancies in the care provided by different professionals.

Conclusion

This study highlights the tension between routine-driven care and individualized approaches. Addressing identified challenges, such as formalizing multiprofessional meetings and enhancing reflective practices, is crucial for advancing person-centered care in this setting.
Frailty, malnutrition, healthcare utilization, and mortality in patients with dementia and cognitive impairment obtained from hospital administrative data
Authors: Merchant Reshma Aziz , Dong Ying Qiu , Kumari Shikha , Murphy Diarmuid
Published: February 2025

Introduction

With aging populations, the prevalence of dementia, frailty and malnutrition will increase. The aim of this study is twofold (a) to determine the demographic data, including frailty and malnutrition prevalence in older patients with diagnosis of dementia and/or cognitive impairment and (b) to determine its impact on outcomes such as length of stay (LOS), readmission and mortality stratified by frailty status.

Methods

Retrospective single-center cohort study conducted using hospital database on older patients ≥65 yrs. admitted to a tertiary hospital between March 2022 and Dec 2023 and discharged with either primary or secondary diagnosis of dementia or cognitive impairment. Data on age, gender, ethnicity, comorbidities, discharge diagnoses, Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS), Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), activity of daily living (ADL), 3-Minute Nutrition Screening and outcomes such as LOS, readmission, mortality and cost of hospitalization were extracted. Those aged between 65 to 74 years old were categorized as “young-old,” and ≥75 years old as “old-old.”

Results

Dementia or cognitive impairment diagnosis was prevalent in 8.6% (3090) older patients, and 33.7% were malnourished. 54.5% were female with a mean age of 82.0 years. Almost one fourth were dependent on ADL. Based on frailty defined by (i) HFRS—26.0% had intermediate and 18.2% high frailty (ii) CFS—41.0% were mild/moderately frail, and 32.2% severely frail. Median LOS was 8 days. 30 and 90-days readmission rates were 23.2 and 35.4%, respectively. In-hospital mortality was 7.8% and 30-day mortality 14.0%. High HFRS (aOR 1.511, 95% CI: 1.089–2.097; p = 0.013), severe frailty (aOR 4.325, 95% CI: 0.960–2.684; p < 0.001) and terminal frailty (aOR 39.762, 95% CI: 18.311–86.344; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with inpatient mortality. Intermediate HFRS (aOR 1.682, 95% CI: 1.380–2.050; p < 0.001), mild/moderate frailty (1.609, 95% CI: 1.254–2.065; p < 0.01), high HFRS (aOR 2.178, 95% CI: 1.756–2.702; p < 0.001) and severe frailty (2.333, 95% CI: 1.804–3.017; p < 0.01) were significantly associated with 30-days readmission. The impact of malnutrition on healthcare utilization was highest in the old-old with high HFRS and severe frailty.

Conclusion

Frailty and malnutrition have significant impact on healthcare utilization, readmission rates, and mortality among older adults with dementia and/or cognitive impairment.
A review of sarcoidosis etiology, diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Waly Yahya Mostafa , Sharafeldin Abu-Baker Khalid , Akhtar Muhammad Umair , Chilmeran Zaid , Fredericks Salim
Published: February 2025

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs, leading to inflammation and potential organ dysfunction. Symptoms often start with general signs like fatigue, fever, and weight loss, but vary depending on the affected organ. Diagnosis is challenging due to its diverse clinical presentation and lack of a definitive test, while treatment is complicated by the disease’s variable course, requiring a personalized approach. This review explores the role of genetic and environmental factors in sarcoidosis etiology, examines current challenges in diagnosis and treatment, and discusses how understanding etiology informs patient management and future treatment strategies.
Fractionating proteins with nitrite-reducing activity in “Candidatus Kuenenia stuttgartiensis” strain CSTR1
Authors: Ude Emea Okorafor , Sure Pranathi , Rimjhim Rimjhim , Adrian Lorenz , Ding Chang
Published: February 2025

The anammox bacteria “Candidatus Kuenenia stuttgartiensis” (Ca. Kuenenia) are able to gain energy by combining ammonium and nitrite to produce nitrogen gas, which is an ecologically and technically significant activity process. In this reaction, nitric oxide serves as a recognized intermediate in the reduction of nitrite, which is subsequently combined with ammonium to produce hydrazine. However, the enzyme that converts nitrite to nitric oxide remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the nitrite-reducing activity in “Ca. Kuenenia stuttgartiensis” strain CSTR1 to identify candidates for such an enzyme. An optimized in vitro assay was established to measure nitrite-reducing activities, with which we followed the activity in protein fractions obtained from various fractionation methods. Separation of the cell extract of strain CSTR1 with size exclusion chromatography yielded active fractions corresponding to a molecular size range of 150–200 kDa. Several proteins coeluted with the nitrite-reducing activity, including the hydroxylamine dehydrogenase HOX, an NADP-dependent isopropanol dehydrogenase (Adh), an electron-transfer 4Fe-4S subunit protein (Fcp), and a nitric oxide detoxifying flavorubredoxin (NorVW). However, further separation of the cell extract with anion exchange chromatography, resulted in much lower activity yields, and activities were distributed among several fractions. In addition, fractionation of cell extracts using ultracentrifugation and ultrafiltration linked the activity to HOX, but could not exclude the involvement of other proteins in the activity. Overall, our results suggest that the molecular mechanism for nitrite reduction in “Ca. Kuenenia” strains is more complex than that currently described in the literature. Nitrite reduction appears to be strongly associated with HOX but may additionally require the participation of other proteins.
Remediation of antimony-contaminated soil using food waste organic fertilizer and rhizosphere microbial response mechanism
Authors: Luo Shenglian , Ouyang Yingxuan , Zeng Weimin , Wu Xiaoyan
Published: February 2025

Antimony pollution poses a significant threat to both the ecological environment and the health of people living in mining regions. Using organic fertilizers is an efficient approach for the remediation of heavy metal contamination in soil. This study aimed to explore how food waste organic fertilizer (FF) can remediate antimony-contaminated soil and the associated rhizosphere microbial response mechanism. The analysis of soil physicochemical properties revealed that the application of FF notably reduced bulk density (from 1.57 to 1.08 g cm−3), enhanced salinization levels, and increased the content of organic matter, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (p < 0.05). In the FF group, the plant height of Pteris vittate increased by 82.12% compared to the control group. The antimony valence state analysis revealed that after applying FF, the Sb(III) content in the rhizosphere and endosphere of P. vittate was significantly lower than that in other groups (p < 0.05), while the Sb(V) content in the endosphere was the highest. This indicated that FF can enhance the oxidation and detoxification of Sb(III) in the soil to produce Sb(V), which is then accumulated in the root of P. vittate. Microbial community analysis showed that the application of FF promoted the continuous enrichment of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes in the roots of P. vittate; this is particularly evident in the specific microbial groups with Sb(III) oxidation, nitrogen fixation, and phosphorus and potassium solubilization functions, including Acinetobacter, Sphingomonas, Comamonas, Bradyrhizobium, Alphaproteobacteria, Acidovorax, and Paenibacillaceae. These microbes help mitigate the adverse effects of poor soil conditions and heavy metals on the growth of P. vittate in mines. This study provides a new approach to resource utilization of food waste and the remediation of antimony-contaminated sites.
Spatial and temporal groundwater biogeochemical variability help inform subsurface connectivity within a high-altitude Alpine catchment (Riale di Ronco, Switzerland)
Authors: Acciardo Andrew S. , Arnet Moira , Gholizadeh Doonechaly Nima , Ceccato Alberto , Rodriguez Paula , Tran Hoang N.H. , Wenning Quinn , Zimmerman Eric , Hertrich Marian , Brixel Bernard , Magnabosco Cara
Published: February 2025

Accessing the deep terrestrial subsurface (greater than 1 km below the surface) presents significant practical challenges, leaving these ecosystems largely uncharacterized despite their extensive presence beneath Earth's landmasses. In this study, we introduce the BedrettoLab Deep Life Observatory (DELOS), a new underground laboratory to study the biogeochemical diversity of groundwater in a high-altitude Alpine catchment tens of meters to 1.6 km underground. Biogeochemical monitoring of DELOS over spatial and temporal scales highlight three dominant ecotypes throughout DELOS: (1) Shallow groundwater with low electrical conductivity enriched in Leptospirillia; (2) High-inflow fault zones enriched in ultra-small bacteria and archaea; (3) Bicarbonate-enriched waters that are enriched in Candidatus Kryptonia and Spirochaetota. Despite a consistent lithology throughout DELOS, groundwater from fractures that are spatially near each other are not always represented by the same ecotype and can be more similar to groundwater emitted from fractures thousands of meters away. Despite this heterogeneity, the biological and hydrochemical compositions of the groundwater of individual fractures remained relatively stable throughout the course of a 1-year monitoring period. An exception to this trend occurred after a series of seismic events near one groundwater-bearing fracture. Here, the microbial community and hydrochemical composition of the groundwater changed after the seismic events but returned to the site's “baseline” composition within 3 weeks. Taken together, these findings provide new insights into the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of deep subsurface ecosystems and the subsurface connectivity of an Alpine subsurface environment.
Discovery of novel mycoviruses from fungi associated with mango leaf spots
Authors: Wang Qihua , Chen Mengyi , Xie Yanling
Published: February 2025

Mango (Mangifera indica) is a commercially significant fruit crop cultivated globally. However, leaf spot diseases are common in mango orchards, which severely impact the yield. Mycoviruses hold promise as potential biocontrol agents. To investigate this possibility, fungi were isolated from mango leaf spot lesions, resulting in the identification of six strains that contained double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Through BLASTx analysis of the NCBI non-redundant database, 27 mycovirus-related contigs were identified, which corresponded to 10 distinct viruses grouped into 8 lineages: Alternaviridae, Chrysoviridae, Partitiviridae, Polymycoviridae, Orthototiviridae, Deltaflexiviridae, Narnaviridae, and Bunyaviricetes. Full genomic sequences of these viruses were characterized and confirmed to be associated with their host fungi. The findings included six novel mycoviruses, three previously unreported viruses discovered in new hosts, and one virus strain. These results highlight the diversity and taxonomy of mycoviruses found in fungi associated with mango leaf spots.