bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Effectiveness of the CEKAS Program as a Promotive Preventive Service System for Non-Communicable Disease Control in Accordance with Minimum Service Standard
Authors: Nauli Humaira Anggie , Yahya Frida Laila , Syari Wirda , Anggraini Sevrima , Alfariyadi Adwina Salsabila
Published: February 2025

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become a serious threat to public health worldwide, including in Indonesia. Puskesmas is a primary health care facility that plays an important role in the prevention and control of NCDs. The CEKAS (Cek Kesehatan Masyarakat - Community Health Check) Program is a NCD prevention initiative at the Puskesmas of Cianjur District. This article aims to analyze the effectiveness of the CEKAS Program in providing promotive preventive services for NCD control in Cianjur District based on program evaluation and its impact on the local community. This study used observational methods and secondary data analysis from Puskesmas reports related to the CEKAS Program. The results showed that the CEKAS Program played an effective role in reducing the incidence of NCDs in Cianjur Regency through prevention efforts and community education. With early detection and health education provided by the program, the community can take preventive measures to prevent non-communicable diseases and adopt a healthy lifestyle. However, there are still some challenges in the implementation of CEKAS, namely low public awareness, limited resources, lack of interdisciplinary cooperation, and non-comprehensive handling of examination results.
Monogenea on exotic Indian freshwater fish. 8. Co-translocation of Cichlidogyrus tilapiae (Monogenea, Dactylogyridae) with pindani Chindongo socolofi (Cichliformes, Cichlidae), the first report of this parasite genus in India
Authors: Tripathi Amit , Matey Chawan , Pariselle Antoine , Vanhove Maarten
Published: February 2025

Chindongo socolofi (Cichliformes, Cichlidae) is a popular freshwater ornamental fish from Lake Malawi in Africa. Although identifying parasites associated with the global ornamental trade is critical for developing biosecurity practices, little is known about the parasite fauna of C. socolofi. Therefore, this study sought to determine what monogenean parasites C. socolofi harbours in India. Adult specimens of this host species were collected from various aquarium shops across the country between 2020 and 2022, and their gills were subjected to parasitological examination. Monogeneans were detected in five host specimens (22.7%) with low mean intensities (6.2± 3.8). They were identified as Cichlidogyrus tilapiae (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) based on the presence of the following morphometric characteristics: two pairs of anchors, two auricles on the dorsal bar, a V-shaped ventral bar, and an accessory piece with a folded rim and a bent bifurcated tip. The morphological identification was confirmed by the sequence analysis of the specimen’s 18S-ITS1 gene regions and 28S rRNA genes to C. tilapiae from Paratilapia polleni (Cichliformes, Cichlidae) in Madagascar (GenBank accession numbers MH767400 (18S–ITS1) and MH767412 (28S), respectively). This article is the first report on a species of Cichlidogyrus in India, contributing to the growing list of known freshwater monogeneans that are being distributed globally via the ornamental fish trade. Additionally, it adds a new host species (C. socolofi) and geographic location (India) to the existing knowledge of C. tilapiae, a widespread and often co-introduced tropical fish parasite.
PREVALENCE OF FASCIOLOSIS AND DICROCOELIOSIS IN SLAUGHTERED SHEEP AND GOATS IN BAUCHI ABATTOIR, BAUCHI STATE, NORTHEAST NIGERIA
Authors: Chongmobmi Markus , Gamawa A. A. , Usman Y. , Nuhu Y.
Published: February 2025

Sheep and goats are a major contributor of protein in the Nigerian livestock industry. Their productivity is greatly hampered by helminths which account for enormous economic losses. In view of this, 420 bile samples were randomly collected from slaughtered sheep (134) and goats (286) in the Bauchi abattoir between the months of January to May 2024. The bile samples were analysed in the laboratory for the presence of fasciola and dicrocoelium parasites. The age, sex and species of the animals were determined using standard procedures. Out of the 420 sheep and goats sampled 90 (21.4%) were positive for fasciolosis and dicrocoeliosis. The infection was highest with Dicrocoelium dendriticum (84.5%) and was least with Fasciola spp (2.2%). There was significant association between infection and species of animals examined (P = 0.047) with higher infection rate seen in sheep than goats. However, age and sex of the sheep and goats sampled did not significantly influence disposition to infection with the parasites (P = 0.682 and 0.551 respectively). Based on overall prevalence (21.4%) obtained in this study it can be concluded that, fasciolosis and dicrocoeliosis are moderately endemic with dicrocoeliosis beng more prevalent than fasciolosis in the study area among slaughtered sheep and goats examined. The infection is more common in sheep than goats in the study area. Therefore, it is recommended that routine and strategic deworming should be intensified particularly for sheep and goats in the Bauchi area.
HARNESSING INDIGENOUS FARMING KNOWLEDGE TO ENHANCE FOOD SECURITY AND LAND CONSERVATION IN MUBI NORTH LGA, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Garandi Danjuma Ijudigal , Bashir Abbas , Dasin Mohammed Saadu
Published: February 2025

The study investigates the role of indigenous farming knowledge in conservation practices and sustainable food security in Mubi North LGA, Adamawa State. The research seeks to achieve through the following objectives, to assessed the extent to which indigenous farming practices contribute to conservation farming and examining their impact on food security. and to investigate the contributions of indigenous farming knowledge toward achieving sustainable food security in Mubi North LGA, Adamawa State.  Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, both primary and secondary data sourced were used, data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews of randomly selected 349 farmers and 15 agricultural officials in Mubi North LGA of Adamawa State sample size were determined using Cochran’s formula, Liker scale was employed for measuring respondents’ perception and Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data, while hypothesis was tested using t-test analysis.  Findings reveal a high awareness of indigenous techniques, particularly in soil preservation and crop diversity. A mean score of 4.47 highlights the effectiveness of traditional methods in restoring soil fertility, while a grand mean of 3.32 indicates farmers recognize the benefits of these practices for food safety and affordability. Notably, a t-test analysis indicates significant differences in perceptions between adopters and non-adopters of indigenous practices, emphasizing the positive effects on land conservation among those who adopt. The study concludes that indigenous farming knowledge plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural sustainability and food security in the region. Recommendations include enhancing education and training for farmers, innovating traditional storage methods, and strengthening support networks...
Features of the System Approach to the Analysis of Electric Networks
Energy Efficiency
Authors: Okhrimenko Viacheslav , Malyarenko Vitaliy , Loktionov Gennadii , Borovoi Kostiantyn
Published: February 2025

The paper presents the features of the application of a systems approach to solving problematic issues in the electric power industry (design, analysis and modernization of existing systems, teaching complex subjects and their topics in educational institutions). An algorithm for solving the problem is proposed, the peculiarity of which is to consider the object and subject of the study as separate systems, modeling these systems in accordance with the principles of systems analysis in the following sequence: formation of a generalized model of the “black box” type and subsequent transformation (detailing, clarifying the structure and parameters) of the “black box” model into a structural (or functional) model of the system of the required level of detail. The proposed algorithm is explained using the example of explaining the basic concepts of “electrical network” and “energy efficiency of the electric network” in the process of teaching professional academic disciplines to students of the specialty “Electric Power Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Electromechanics”. Practical use of the proposed algorithm promotes students’ under-standing of the structure of complex topics of academic disciplines, the relationships be-tween topics and between individual disciplines, which helps to increase the efficiency of students' mastering the specialty program. This approach can also be applied by specialists in the process of solving problems of design, operation and modernization of real electric power facilities.
Determinantes de la migración en la subregión Sierra de los Agustinos, Guanajuato, México, a través de un modelo econométrico
Authors: Chamú Nicanor Félix , Hernández Muñoz Sandra , Hernández Barriga Plinio
Published: February 2025

El objetivo de este estudio es determinar si la adopción del e-commerce por parte de pequeñas empresas locales enla subregión Sierra de los Agustinos, Guanajuato, México, puede contribuir a la disminución del desempleo y, porconsecuencia, disminuir la intensidad migratoria. La subregión se ha caracterizado, hasta el día de hoy, por su altaintensidad migratoria e importante presencia de actividades terciarias. El análisis se realizó mediante un estudiode campo, con una muestra de 258 unidades de observación, y la especicación de un modelo econométrico, apartir de la información generada en la muestra. Los resultados indican que el desempleo, el ingreso, lainseguridad, las condiciones migratorias preexistentes, el número de integrantes de las familias y el e-commercedeterminan la migración de la región de estudio
Впровадження bim-технологій для моніторингу та обслуговування СШНУ. Основні вигоди та виклики
Authors: Чеверда А.М. , Артим В.І.
Published: February 2025

У статті детально розглядаються основні аспекти впровадження BIM-технологій у процеси моніто- рингу та обслуговування свердловинних штангових насосних установок (СШНУ). Підкреслюється зна- чення BIM як універсального інструменту для інте- грації різних етапів управління інфраструктурними об'єктами. Використання BIM дозволяє ефективно оптимізувати життєвий цикл таких складних си- стем, як СШНУ, що забезпечує не лише надійність їхньої роботи, але й підвищення продуктивності та зменшення експлуатаційних витрат.
У статті акцентується увага на перевагах, які надає використання BIM у сфері моніторингу та об- слуговування СШНУ. Зокрема, підкреслюється важ- ливість підвищення точності інформації, що забез- печує своєчасне виявлення можливих відхилень у ро- боті системи, дозволяючи оперативно реагувати на проблеми. Це, в свою чергу, сприяє підтримці безпе- рервності виробничих процесів та знижує ризик ви- никнення аварійних ситуацій.
Крім того, у статті аналізуються технічні та ор- ганізаційні виклики, які можуть виникнути під час впровадження BIM. Особлива увага приділяється пи- танням інтеграції BIM з існуючими інформаційними системами, що є важливим аспектом для забезпе- чення повноти та точності даних. Важливо також зазначити необхідність проведення навчання персо- налу для опанування новими технологіями та підхо- дами, що дозволить максимально ефективно викори- стовувати потенціал BIM.
Розроблено низку рекомендацій для успішного впро- вадження BIM-технологій, серед яких особливу увагу приділено детальному аналізу потреб конкретного проекту, забезпеченню ефективної інтеграції BIM з іншими системами управління, а також постійному оновленню моделей відповідно до змін на об'єкті. Ви- конання цих рекомендацій забезпечить не лише підвищення ефективності роботи СШНУ, але й три- валу стабільність та надійність їх функціонування. Таким чином, впровадження BIM-технологій стає ключовим фактором підвищення ефективності та надійності управління свердловинними штанговими насосними установками, що дозволяє оптимізувати процеси, знизити витрати та забезпечити більш ви- сокий рівень безпеки під час експлуатації. Успішне впровадження BIM вимагає комплексного підходу, що враховує всі можливі технічні та організаційні виклики, а також постійної адаптації до змінних умов та нових технологій.
DEVELOPMENT OF THIN CONSERVATION-GRADE PAPER FROM INDONESIAN PAPER MULBERRY
Authors: Suranto Christopher Alma , Sudiono Sri , Ekarini Fransiska Dian
Published: February 2025

This research explores the development of conservation-grade paper from Indonesian paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), commonly known as daluang, as a sustainable material for historical artifact preservation. Given the scarcity of locally produced conservation-grade paper in Indonesia, this study investigates the technical feasibility of utilizing daluang fibers in papermaking. The research details the steps of bark extraction, fiber purification, delignification, bleaching, and sheet formation, following traditional papermaking techniques.. Three alkaline solutions (NaOH, Na₂CO₃, and Ca(OH)₂) were employed for delignification, followed by mechanical and chemical characterizations including tensile testing, colorimetry, pH analysis, SEM, and ATR-FTIR. The results demonstrate that NaOH-delignified fibers produce the thinnest paper with improved fiber dispersion, while Ca(OH)₂-treated samples exhibit higher tensile strength and pH stability. The findings show Indonesian paper mulberry's potential as a resource for conservation-grade paper, though further optimizations are needed to enhance fiber distribution and lignin removal for practical conservation applications.
PEMULIHAN WARISAN PASCABENCANA:
Authors: Dewi Maulidha Sinta , Ardianto Dian , Ajiz Lukman
Published: February 2025

Kebakaran yang melanda Museum Nasional Indonesia menyebabkan kerusakan pada sejumlah koleksi, salah satunya adalah Arca Siwa Mahadewa (No. Inv. 18542), sebuah masterpiece yang sangat penting dan berharga. Sebagai bagian dari upaya pemulihan pascabencana, konservasi arca ini dilakukan dengan mengutamakan prinsip-prinsip etika konservasi, termasuk penggunaan metode reversible, pemeriksaan ilmiah, penggunaan bahan asli, serta pelestarian bentuk dan karakteristik arca agar tetap autentik.
Proses konservasi mencakup beberapa langkah utama, yaitu identifikasi kondisi arca secara visual dan menggunakan X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) portable, pembersihan debu dan kotoran, penghilangan korosi, restorasi pada bagian lengan yang patah, konsolidasi untuk memperkuat struktur arca, serta pelapisan (coating) untuk meningkatkan ketahanan terhadap korosi. Hasil analisis XRF menunjukkan bahwa arca mengandung perunggu, perak, dan sedikit emas, yang mengindikasikan bahwa arca pernah dilapisi emas, meskipun lapisan tersebut telah terkikis seiring waktu.
Dalam pemulihan ini, bahan-bahan tradisional seperti jeruk nipis, asam jawa, abu bambu, dan gale (campuran getah damar, serbuk batu bata dan minyak kelapa) digunakan, yang terbukti efektif secara ilmiah dalam menstabilkan kondisi arca tanpa merusak keasliannya. Selama restorasi, perbedaan pendapat mengenai arah lengan arca diselesaikan melalui diskusi antara konservator dan kurator dengan mempertimbangkan bukti dokumentasi yang ada. Pemulihan ini berhasil mengembalikan kondisi arca dengan tetap mempertahankan nilai historis dan integritasnya, sekaligus menunjukkan pentingnya pendekatan konservasi yang sesuai etika dalam pemulihan warisan budaya pascabencana.
Optimization of the Fc-fusion protein refolding method produced from the bacterial expression system
Authors: Astrelina P. S. , Ishchuk S. A. , Kabanova A. V. , Drai R. V.
Published: February 2025

Introduction. The production of Fc-fused proteins in prokaryotic systems often results in the formation of insoluble aggregates due to improper folding of polypeptide chains. To obtain functional proteins, a refolding step is required. However, developing refolding parameters can be time-consuming. The optimization of renaturation conditions using the Design of Experiments (DoE) approach allows for the calculation of optimal process parameters and the evaluation of contributing factors and their interactions.

Aim. This study aims to evaluate the effects of denaturation buffer pH, as well as oxidative and reducing agent concentrations, on the efficiency of Fc-fusion protein refolding in vitro and to determine optimal refolding parameters.

Materials and methods. Fc-fusion protein inclusion bodies were obtained from an Escherichia coli BL21 bacterial expression system. The experiment was designed using an orthogonal composite design (Orthogonal Central Composite Design, CCO). Experimental design, statistical data processing, and parameter optimization were conducted using MODDE (v. 12.1, Sartorius Stedim Data Analytics AB, Germany). Chromatographic purity and yield of the target protein, as determined by high-performance size-exclusion chromatography, were used as response variables.

Results and discussion. The DoE approach successfully optimized the Fc-fusion protein refolding process. Response surface plots were constructed, and the optimal factor values were determined. The statistical models demonstrated high predictive accuracy and data reproducibility. The refolding process was successfully validated under optimized conditions, resulting in a decrease in high-molecular-weight impurities and improperly folded protein forms. The chromatographic purity of the target protein increased by more than 10 %, as confirmed by high-performance size-exclusion chromatography.

Conclusion. The study established significant effects of buffer pH, redox pair concentrations, and their interactions on the yield and chromatographic purity of the Fc-fused protein. The interplay between oxidative and reducing components and buffer pH was demonstrated. Increasing the buffer pH led to improved refolding efficiency.
ANALISIS USER EXPERIENCE DAN INNOVATION RESISTANCE PENGGUNAAN APLIKASI MYPERTAMINA MENGGUNAKAN PENDEKATAN UTAUT2 DAN UCD
Authors: Hairadifa Rifka Putri , Asra Taufik , Sinnun Ahmad
Published: February 2025

Pertamina Company launched the MyPertamian Application as a solution to the problem of uneven distribution of subsidized fuel and the implementation of non-cash payment innovations during the pandemic.  However, the mismatch between the implementation of the innovation and the habits of the community has led to a rejection of the use of the application.  Therefore, with this research, it is expected to identify the factors influencing the rejection of innovation usage using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) approach, with SmartPLS measurement and System Usability Scale (SUS) measurement as the readiness for application usage among 48 respondents through questionnaire completion.  The research results show that aspects such as ease of use, usefulness, and perceived value of the MyPertamina application significantly influence user acceptance and the decision to adopt the application.  On the other hand, innovation resistance appears in the form of user concerns about change, complexity, and data security.  Therefore, design implications and development strategies can be identified to enhance user experience and reduce innovation barriers.
EVALUASI PENERIMAAN PENGGUNA APLIKASI ADONAI DENGAN PENDEKATAN TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE MODEL (TAM)
Authors: Cahya Fani Nurona , Hikmatulloh Hikmatulloh , Pebrianto Rangga , Novianti Deny
Published: February 2025

The Adonai application is designed to make it easier to submit insurance and claims for customers by Kosppi employees, but the level of acceptance still needs to be researched. This research uses the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to evaluate the influence of perceived usefulness (9.92%) and perceived ease of use (35.04) on application acceptance. Analysis of data from 53 respondents shows that the two variables simultaneously contribute 66.8% to application acceptance. The results of this research support the validation of TAM as a technology evaluation model in the financial services sector and provide practical recommendations to increase the ease of use and benefits of the adonai application.
Index Seminum 2025
Authors:   Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Mártonfiová Lenka
Published: February 2025

Index The Index Seminum 2025 of the Botanical Garden of the Pavol Jozef Šafárik University contains a list of 243 seed samples offered for the international exchange among botanical gardens on the world. It includes seeds collected from the wild plants in natural localities of Slovakia with a detailed description of the localities with coordinates and date of collection (66 samples) and seeds of plants grown in the Botanical Garden (46 samples) and seeds from Exposition of the Tatra Mountain Nature of the State Forests of Tatra National Park, Tatranská Lomnica (73 samples) as well as 58 seed samples from Hrádocké Arboretum of the Secondary Forestry School of Jozef Dekret Matejovie in Liptovský Hrádok. The index includes a desiderata table that can be used when ordering seeds.
Enhancing Pipeline Reliability Analysis through Machine Learning: A Focus on Corrosion and Fluid Hammer Effects
Authors: Zalkikar Ajinkya , Nepal Bimal , Mutyala Mani Venkata Rakesh , Varshney Anika , Dsouza Lianne , Husin Hazlina , Yadav Om Prakash
Published: February 2025

Natural gas, known for its cleanliness and cost-effectiveness, is transported across vast distances through pipelines. However, the safety concerns that arise from potential ruptures or leaks in these pipelines pose serious threats to the environment and human safety. This paper assesses the reliability of pipelines that have undergone corrosion, compounded by the fluid hammer effect observed in the liquefied gas flow. Machine learning models including support vector machines, linear discriminant analysis, random forest bagging, and Artificial Neural Networks have been meticulously crafted to forecast the safety status of pipelines, considering variables such as the pipe dimensions, material characteristics, fluid velocity, and flow rate. The design of the experiment methodology plays a pivotal role in calculating the pressure surge in pipelines corroded over time due to ongoing corrosion effects. The proposed machine learning models based on simulated data aim to predict the safety status of corroded pipelines with an accuracy rate of up to 97% in controlled environments. Integrating the proposed machine learning models for reliability analysis and pressure surge detection in corroded pipelines, in conjunction with the fluid hammer effect, offers an innovative approach to identifying risks and hazards.
Ruin Probability Analysis in Automobile Insurance Using Gamma-Cubic Transmuted Exponential Distribution for Claim Severity
Authors: Hengcharoensuk Jiramet , Moumeesri Adisak
Published: February 2025

Insurance companies must confront and manage financial risks to ensure their survival. This article analyzes and manages risks by estimating ruin probability using the newly developed Gamma-Cubic Transmuted Exponential (GCTE) claim severity distribution. The GCTE distribution is obtained by mixing distribution and Cubic Rank Transmuted map techniques. Its parameters are estimated using the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) method. The performance of GCTE distribution is compared with well-known loss distributions such as Gamma, Weibull, Lognormal, Inverse Gaussian, mixture Lognormal, and the Cubic Transmuted Exponential (CTE) distribution to identify the best-fitting distribution for claim severity data. To estimate ruin probability, a sample data simulation technique known as acceptance-rejection is employed in the surplus process. Additionally, the exponential function is used to predict the minimum capital reserve necessary to safeguard the company under acceptable risk levels. These methodologies aid decision-making and promote financial stability within non-life insurance companies.
College algebra students’ perceptions of exam errors and the problem-solving process
Authors: Pilgrim Mary E. , Burks Linda C. , Ryals Megan , Hill-Lindsay Sloan
Published: February 2025

The first 2 years of college mathematics play a key role in retaining STEM majors. This becomes considerably difficult when students lack the background knowledge needed to begin in Calculus and instead take College Algebra or Precalculus as a first mathematics course. Given the poor success rates often attributed to these courses, researchers have been looking for ways in which to better support student learning, such as examining the impact of enhancing study habits and skills and metacognitive knowledge. One way that students can enhance their metacognitive knowledge in order to modify their study habits and practices is through reflection on mistakes. For this paper in particular, we focus on mistakes students make on exams. We interviewed students after they took an exam and completed an exam analysis worksheet. As part of a study on the impact of metacognitive instruction for College Algebra students we found that students often attributed their exam errors to “simple mistakes.” However, we identified many of these errors as “not simple.” To understand students’ perceptions of their mistakes within the context of problem-solving, we adapted an established problem-solving framework as an analytical tool. We found that students’ and researchers’ classifications of errors were not aligned across the problem-solving phases. In this paper we present findings from this work, sharing the adapted problem-solving framework, students’ perceptions of their exam mistakes, and the relationship between students’ categorizations of their errors and the problem-solving phase in which the errors occurred. Understanding students’ perceptions of their mistakes helps us better understand how we might support them as learners and better situate them for success in the future.
Utilizing bioinformatics and machine learning to identify CXCR4 gene-related therapeutic targets in diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Zhang Hengyan , Zhou Ye , Yan Heguo , Huang Changxing , Yang Licong , Liu Yangwen
Published: February 2025

Background

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus that manifests as chronic, non-healing wounds that have a significant impact on patients quality of life. Identifying key molecular targets associated with DFUs could help develop targeted therapies to promote wound healing and prevent further complications. The CXCR4 gene is known to play a key role in cell migration, immunology response, and tissue repair, and thus may be an important target for DFU treatment.

Methods

We used the GEO database (Gene Expression Omnibus database) to obtain DFU-related gene expression data, identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and performed enrichment analysis to reveal the related biological pathways. Meanwhile, protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using STRING to identify core genes. Feature selection methods such as LASSO, SVM-RFE and random forest algorithm were applied to localize possible therapeutic target genes. Finally, We analyzed the molecular pathways of CXCR4 in DFUs by Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA).

Results

We identified a total of 751 differential genes, of which 409 genes were significantly upregulated and 342 genes were downregulated in diabetic foot ulcer tissues. Functional enrichment analysis showed that these genes were mainly involved in pathways such as oxidative phosphorylation, phagosome, synaptic vesicle cycle, and pathways of neurodegeneration. We integrated the genes screened by three machine learning models (LASSO, SVM, and Random Forest), and CXCR4 was identified as a key gene with potential therapeutic value in DFUs. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that CXCR4 was closely associated with pathways related to immunology regulation and tissue repair.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that CXCR4 and its related pathways play an important role in the pathogenesis of DFUs, providing a new perspective on targeted therapy for wound healing in diabetic patients. Further validation of the role of CXCR4 is expected to establish it as an important target in DFU management.
Predictive biomarkers for cardiometabolic risk in postmenopausal women: insights into visfatin, adropin, and adiponectin
Authors: Cybulska Anna Maria , Schneider-Matyka Daria , Walaszek Ireneusz , Panczyk Mariusz , Ćwiek Dorota , Lubkowska Anna , Grochans Elżbieta , Rachubińska Kamila , Malewicz Katarzyna , Chabowski Mariusz
Published: February 2025

Background

Visfatin, adropin, and adiponectin are involved in many changes associated with obesity and metabolic disorders, and may be related to metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. The selection of visfatin, adropin, and adiponectin as biomarkers is based on their significant roles in metabolic regulation and inflammation, which are critical factors in cardiometabolic risk. Visfatin is known for its pro-inflammatory properties and its ability to modulate insulin resistance. Adropin is involved in energy homeostasis and metabolic health, while adiponectin has anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing effects. During the perimenopausal period, the risk of obesity, and consequently cardiometabolic diseases increases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the relationship between cardiometabolic parameters and circulating levels of visfatin, adropin, and adiponectin in perimenopausal women with regard to their obesity status.

Materials and methods

This study of 168 perimenopausal women utilized a cross-sectional design with non-random sampling. It involved the use of questionnaires, as well as anthropometric and blood pressure measurements. Blood samples were collected to determine the levels of visfatin, adropin, and adiponectin. Statistical analyses, including correlation coefficients, were performed to evaluate the relationship between these biomarkers and cardiometabolic risk factors, such as insulin resistance, lipid profiles, and inflammatory markers.

Results

In our study, visceral adiposity index and lipid accumulation product negatively correlated with adiponectin levels. Preliminary multivariate linear regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between circulating visfatin and IL-6 levels. Circulating adropin negatively correlated with HbA1C, fasting blood glucose, and insulin. Adiponectin negatively correlated with HbA1C, fasting blood glucose, insulin, and triglycerides. Furthermore, circulating adiponectin positively correlated with HDL, and negatively with HOMA-IR.

Conclusions

Adiponectin is a promising biomarker for predicting cardiometabolic risk in postmenopausal women.
Endogenous 17β-estradiol regulates sexually dimorphic anxiety responses in zebrafish via the HPI axis and 5-HT/DA pathways
Authors: Tao Hong , Zhang Ying–Ying , Shen Yan–Jun , Chen Qi–Liang , Liu Zhi–Hao
Published: February 2025

Anxiety is a multifaceted emotional response exhibited by animals when confronted with potential threats. Among most vertebrates, including mammals and fish, there is a pronounced sexual dimorphism in anxiety responses, with females typically demonstrating higher anxiety levels than males. Concurrently, endogenous estrogen levels, specifically 17β-estradiol (E2), are significantly higher in females compared to males. This suggests a potential positive regulatory role of E2 on anxiety, contributing to sexually dimorphic anxiety in fish. To elucidate the role of E2 in mediating sexually dimorphic anxiety responses, male zebrafish (Danio rerio) were administered E2 (E2-M), while females were treated with letrozole (LET, an aromatase inhibitor that reduces E2 synthesis, LET-F) for 60 days, and plasma and brain levels of E2 were detected and anxiety response was evaluated by a novel tank diving test. Females (C-F) showed significantly higher anxiety responses, along with elevated E2 and cortisol levels in plasma and brain, and reduced brain serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) levels compared to males (C-M). Treatment with LET significantly decreased E2 levels in the plasma and brain of female zebrafish, which corresponded with reduced anxiety responses, lower plasma cortisol levels, and increased brain 5-HT and DA content. Additionally, the expression of genes associated with E2, cortisol, 5- HT, and DA pathways was relevantly altered. Conversely, E2 treatment in males (E2-M) increased E2 levels and anxiety responses, elevated plasma cortisol levels, and decreased brain 5-HT and DA content, with corresponding changes in gene expression. These findings strongly suggest that E2 positively regulates sexually dimorphic anxiety responses possibly by modulating plasma cortisol levels and the synthesis and action of 5-HT/DA in the brain.
HIV and the gut microbiome: future research hotspots and trends
Authors: Wu Zhen , Xie Zhan-Peng , Cui Xin-Xin , Sun Xiang-Bin , Zhao Fang-Yi , Wang Nuo , Li Yu , Wang Haixia , Zhang Li , Shen Jing , Chen Fulei , Sun Haogang , He Jia
Published: February 2025

Background

The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy has transformed AIDS into a chronic infectious disease, but issues of chronic inflammation and immune system activation persist. Modulating the gut microbiome of patients may improve this situation, yet the specific association mechanisms between HIV and the gut microbiome remain unclear. This study aims to explore the research hotspots and trends of the HIV and the gut microbiome, providing direction for future research.

Methods

We conducted a search of the Web of Science Core Collection database up to April 30, 2024 to retrieve articles related to the relationship between the HIV and the gut microbiome. The scientific achievements and research frontiers in this field were analyzed using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrix statistical software.

Results

As of April 30, 2024, a total of 379 articles met the inclusion criteria. The number of publications in this field peaked in 2023, and the number of articles published after 2020 declined. The country with the highest number of publications was the United States (184 articles), and the institution with the most publications was the University of Colorado (USA) (21 articles). The author with the most publications was Routy Jean-Pierre (Canada) (14 articles). High-frequency keywords, aside from the key terms, included “HIV,” “inflammation,” “immune activation,” “gut microbiota,” and “translocation.” Keyword burst results indicated that short-chain fatty acids, T cells and obesity might become the focus of future research.

Conclusion

The research hotspots in this field should prioritize examining the role of the primary gut microbiome metabolite, short-chain fatty acids, in reducing immune system activation and inflammation. Another emerging area of interest could be the investigation into the annual increase in obesity rates within this field. Furthermore, understanding the metabolic mechanisms of short-chain fatty acids in T cells is essential. Additionally, multi-omics analysis holds potential.
Potential pathogenic and protective genotypes and phenotypes of vitamin D binding protein in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Al-Shammri Suhail , Chattopadhyay Arpita , Mustafa Abu Salim
Published: February 2025

Background

The main carrier protein of vitamin D and its metabolites in plasma is vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) or group-specific component (Gc). Two single nucleotide polymorphisms, rs7041, and rs4588 in the GC gene result in three major VDBP/Gc genotypes, GC1F (c.1296T, c.1307C), GC1S (c.1296G, c.1307C), GC2 (c.1296T, c.1307A), and phenotypes, Gc1F (p.432Asp, p.436Thr), Gc1S (p.432Glu, p.436Thr), and Gc2 (p.432Asp, p.436Lys). This study investigated frequencies of GC genotypes and phenotypes in Kuwaiti multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and healthy controls, and their associations with serum levels of 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)vitamin D] and VDBP.

Methods

The genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples of drug-naïve MS patients (N = 151) and controls (N = 127). DNA regions covering the targeted mutations were amplified by PCR, sequenced by the Sanger method, and analyzed to determine GC genotypes and phenotypes. Serum 25(OH)vitamin D and VDBP levels were measured by enzyme immunoassay. SPSS used for statistical analyses. Differences between independent and related groups tested by Mann–Whitney U and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests respectively, Genotype and phenotype frequencies were calculated; p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

The study detected four Gc genotypes/phenotypes, namely GC1F/Gc1F (c.1296T, c.1307C/p.432Asp, p.436Thr), GC1S/Gc1S (c.1296G, c.1307C/p.432Glu, p.436Thr), GC2/Gc2 (c.1296T, c.1307A/p.432Asp, p.436Lys), and GC3/Gc3 (c.1296G; c.1307A/p.432Glu, p.436Lys) in both subjects. The frequencies of GC3 genotype (control: 5.51%; patient: 28.48%) and Gc3-containing phenotypic groups (Gc1S/Gc3 + Gc2/Gc3 + Gc3/Gc3) were significantly higher in patients. Moreover, frequencies of GC1F genotype (control: 27.17%; patients: 5.30%) and Gc1F-containing phenotypic groups (Gc1F/Gc1F + Gc1S/Gc1F + Gc2/Gc1F) were higher in controls. Vitamin D levels were deficient in both groups. However, VDBP concentrations were significantly low in MS patients only.

Conclusion

The VDBP/GC genotypes and phenotypes are associated with MS. Common genotype GC1F might be protective, and GC3, the novel variant found in MS patients appeared to be pathogenetic. Hypovitaminosis-D is prevalent in MS patients and controls.
Blood biomarkers for vascular cognitive impairment based on neuronal function: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Weiquan , Liao Libin , Liu Qian , Ma Rongchao , He Xuan , Du Xiaoqiong , Sha Dujuan
Published: February 2025

Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) is increasingly recognized as the second most prevalent cause of dementia, primarily attributed to vascular risk factors and cerebrovascular disease. Numerous studies suggest that blood biomarkers may play a crucial role in the detection and prognosis of VCI. This study conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the potential of various blood biomarkers associated with neuronal function as indicators of VCI. We searched four major databases—PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library—up to December 31, 2023, for research on blood biomarkers for VCI. Of the 4,043 studies identified, 30 met the inclusion criteria for this review. The nine peripheral biomarkers analyzed for their association with neuronal function include amyloid beta 42 (Aβ42), amyloid beta 40 (Aβ40), Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, total Tau (t-Tau), phosphorylated tau 181 (p-tau 181), neurofilament light (NfL), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), S100B, and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE). Our findings reveal that peripheral Aβ42, Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, NfL, and S100B significantly differ between VCI and non-VCI groups, indicating their potential as blood biomarkers for VCI.
High-dose thiamine supplementation ameliorates obesity induced by a high-fat and high-fructose diet in mice by reshaping gut microbiota
Authors: Xia Yu , Wang Lulu , Qiu Yanyan , Ge Weihong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Thiamine (vitamin B1) in the gut is crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and host health. Our previous study identified significantly lower levels of fecal thiamine in individuals with obesity; however, its potential and mechanisms for alleviating obesity induced by a high-fat and high-fructose diet (HFFD) remain unclear. Therefore, in the present study, the effects of high-dose thiamine supplementation on HFFD-induced obesity and gut microbiota dysbiosis were investigated.

Methods

HFFD-fed mice were supplemented with high-dose thiamine for eight weeks. Biochemical analysis and histological analysis were conducted to assess phenotypic changes. Fecal 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed to analyze alterations in the gut microbiota.

Results

The results showed that high-dose thiamine supplementation for eight weeks could significantly alleviate symptoms of HFFD-induced obesity and improve HFFD-induced intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction by enhancing the tight junction function. Furthermore, oral administration of high-dose thiamine also regulated HFFD-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis by reshaping its structure and composition of gut microbiota, such as increasing the relative abundance of Actinobacteria and Bifidobacterium pseudolongum, and reducing the relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Ruminococcus gnavus, accompanied by decreased level of gut-derived endotoxin. Finally, significant correlations were found between obesity-related phenotypes and gut microbiota through correlation analysis.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the potential mechanism by which high-dose thiamine supplementation alleviated HFFD-induced obesity might involve reshaping gut microbiota and restoring the intestinal barrier, thereby ameliorating gut microbiota-related endotoxemia.
A comprehensive analysis and comparative study of the trends in thyroid cancer burden in China and globally from 1990 to 2021, with projections for the next 15 Years
Authors: Yin Yulai , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to analyze the trends in incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of thyroid cancer across gender and age groups in China and globally from 1990 to 2021, using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. Additionally, it projects the trends in thyroid cancer burden for the next 15 years for both China and the global population.

Materials and methods

Thyroid cancer-related data were extracted from the 2021 GBD dataset. The average annual percentage change (AAPC) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated using Joinpoint regression to reflect trends in the thyroid cancer burden. R software was used to perform a gender- and age-specific analysis and visualize the trends in thyroid cancer burden for both China and the global population. Furthermore, the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was employed to project the trends in thyroid cancer burden over the next 15 years.

Results

The results indicate a rising trend in the incidence and prevalence of thyroid cancer both in China and globally. Conversely, the mortality rate and DALYs show a declining trend over the same period. Age-specific analysis revealed that thyroid cancer is most prevalent among individuals aged 50–64. Gender-specific analysis indicated that the incidence rate is higher in females than in males. Projections for the next 15 years show that the age-standardized incidence rates for both males and females are expected to continue rising in China and globally. While the age-standardized mortality rate for females is projected to decline significantly, the mortality rate for males is predicted to stabilize.

Conclusion

Between 1990 and 2021, the number of thyroid cancer cases has increased both in China and globally, while the mortality rate has shown a marked decline. This trend is expected to persist over the next 15 years. The growing population affected by thyroid cancer reflects a substantial disease burden, making thyroid cancer a significant global public health concern. The formulation of proactive and effective health policies is urgently needed.
Dramatic response of advanced pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma to tislelizumab combined with anlotinib: a case report
Authors: Li Ranran , Di Xiliang , Li Yuan , Li Hao , Liu Chonghua
Published: February 2025

Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC) is a scarce pathologic type of lung cancer of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that exhibits resistance to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy, resulting in a poor prognosis. Herein, a 67-year-old man was admitted to the hospital in January 2022 with a diagnosis of PSC for over 6 months and a newly discovered brain metastasis for 4 days. He had previously undergone two unsuccessful chemotherapy regimens: bevacizumab combined with pemetrexed and loplatin, and albumin-bound paclitaxel combined with loplatin. Radiotherapy was performed for the brain and skull metastases, followed by treatment with tislelizumab combined with anlotinib, a programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitor with anti angiogenic drug, respectfully. The patient initially received nine cycles of treatment with tislelizumab and anlotinib, resulting in a significant shrinkage of the lung tumor. Subsequently, anlotinib was discontinued due to bleeding in the brain metastasis, and the patient received two additional cycles of tislelizumab. Following improvement in the hemorrhage from brain metastasis, the patient received two cycles of treatment with tislelizumab and anlotinib. Treatment was subsequently interrupted for 1 month due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which then resumed with two additional cycles of tislelizumab and anlotinib. Finally, the patient refused to continue treatment due to the progression of the brain metastasis and economic conditions, despite the stable condition. At this point, the patient has achieved over a year of progression-free survival, with overall survival exceeding 39 months. This case illustrates the efficacy and safety of combining antitumor immunotherapy with anlotinib, a targeted anti-angiogenic therapy.
From detection to elimination: iron-based nanomaterials driving tumor imaging and advanced therapies
Authors: Xie Dong , Sun Linglin , Wu Manxiang , Li Qiang
Published: February 2025

Iron-based nanomaterials (INMs), due to their particular magnetic property, excellent biocompatibility, and functionality, have been developed into powerful tools in both tumor diagnosis and therapy. We give an overview here on how INMs such as iron oxide nanoparticles, element-doped nanocomposites, and iron-based organic frameworks (MOFs) display versatility for tumor imaging and therapy improvement. In terms of imaging, INMs improve the sensitivity and accuracy of techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and photoacoustic imaging (PAI) and support the development of multimodal imaging platforms. Regarding treatment, INMs play a key role in advanced strategies such as immunotherapy, magnetic hyperthermia, and synergistic combination therapy, which effectively overcome tumor-induced drug resistance and reduce systemic toxicity. The integration of INMs with artificial intelligence (AI) and radiomics further expands its capabilities for precise tumor identification, and treatment optimization, and amplifies treatment monitoring. INMs now link materials science with advanced computing and clinical innovations to enable next-generation cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
Meta-analytic prospective associations between self-esteem and eating disorders appear to be spurious: a reanalysis and comment on Krauss et al. (2023)
Authors: Sorjonen Kimmo , Ghaderi Ata , Melin Bo
Published: February 2025

In a recent meta-analysis, Krauss et al. found support for a reciprocal model of low self-esteem and eating disorders where, in a vicious circle, low self-esteem makes people more vulnerable to developing eating disorders and eating disorders, in turn, scars individuals’ self-esteem. However, in the present reanalyses of the same meta-analytic data, we found that the prospective effects between self-esteem and eating disorders are likely spurious, meaning they do not reflect a true causal effect, but rather correlations with residuals and regression to the mean. Consequently, the claims by Krauss et al. can be challenged. To avoid statistical artifacts, we recommend researchers to fit, as we did in the present study, complementary models to their data in order to evaluate if prospective effects may be genuinely increasing or decreasing or if they appear to be spurious.