bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Treatment Outcomes Among Individuals on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Muzumbukilwa Tambwe Willy , Manimani Riziki Ghislain , Mushebenge Aganze Gloire-Aime , Vagiri Rajesh Vikram , Nlooto Manimbulu
Published: December 2024

Despite access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), South Africa has a high human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) burden. Treatment outcomes among individuals on highly active ART (HAART) in KwaZulu‐Natal, with a higher incidence of HIV, are not fully known. This study evaluated the impact of HAART outcomes and identified and analyzed the factors associated with the outcomes in people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in the high‐incidence region of KwaZulu‐Natal Province, South Africa. This retrospective medical record review was conducted at King Edward VIII Hospital in South Africa. Data analysis was performed using STATA software Version 18.0 and Microsoft Excel 2021. The estimates used were 95% confidence intervals, and a p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 707 clinical records of PLWHA were examined and analyzed; less than half of them (44.98%, n = 318) achieved the benchmark of two consecutive instances of suppressed viral loads. The CD4 greater than or equal to 500 cells/mm3 at baseline average of 22.91% (n = 162) registered an increase to 48.94% (n = 346) in the 6th month and further escalated to 79.49% (n = 562) by the 12th month following ART initiation. A total of 160 deaths (mortality rate of 22.63%) were recorded within the study period. The percentage of HIV‐infected patients attaining viral suppression at 6 and 12 months after initiating the treatment was respectively 44.98% and 67.04%, below the 90% target established by the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). The proportion of favorable immunological responses for individuals on ART increased over time.
Structural Rearrangement of Expanded Graphite Through Ball Milling Method for Ultrafast Energy Storage Electrodes
Authors: Jo Myeong-Hun , Kim Hyeong-Rae , Ahn Hyo-Jin
Published: December 2024

Graphite has been employed as an energy storage material due to its ion intercalation capability. Nevertheless, the application of graphite in supercapacitors has been limited due to its strong bonding nature formed by sp2‐hydridized C─C. Herein, structural rearrangement of expanded graphite (EG) was achieved through planetary ball milling method. High‐levels of compressive and shear forces during milling not only rearranged the graphene stacks in the direction parallel to (002) plane but also developed a three‐dimensional (3D) graphite structure with (101) crystallinity. This crystallographic rearrangement of milled EG (MEG) restores electrically conductive sp2‐domains and regenerates intra‐ and interparticle electron transfer pathways. Furthermore, MEG revealed a highly porous structure with enhanced microporosity, balancing the macro‐, meso‐, and micropore ratio. The synergy of morphological and crystallographic rearrangements in MEG enhances the simultaneous ion and electron transport kinetics for electric double layer formation, making it suitable for ultrafast electric double layer capacitor electrodes (80 F/g at 50 A/g).
Biological Age Acceleration and Colonic Polyps in Persons under Age 50
Authors: Brown Chloe M. , Yow Maria V. , Kumar Shria
Published: December 2024

Epigenetic clocks can quantify DNA methylation by measuring the methylation levels at specific sites in the genome, which correlate with biological age (BA). Accelerated aging, where BA exceeds chronologic age, has been studied in relation to cancer development, but its utility in cancer prevention remains unclear. Accelerated aging holds promise as a tool to explain the increase in early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC). We investigate the association of accelerated aging and the presence of preneoplastic polyps (PNP) in the colon, defined as tubular adenomas and sessile serrated adenomas. In this study of persons under age 50 undergoing colonoscopy, we used peripheral blood samples to determine BA and age acceleration metrics. Age acceleration was determined by interrogating DNA methylation at specific CpG sites across the genome, which has been shown to correlate with age. We then conducted logistic regression analyses to evaluate the association between age acceleration and PNPs. In total, 51 patient samples were evaluated. We found that that the odds of harboring a PNP are 16% higher with 1 year of accelerated aging, as measured by GrimAge. However, the strongest risk factor for PNPs remained male sex. This represents one of the first studies to explore accelerated aging and PNP in patients under the age of 50. A risk-stratified approach to EOCRC screening would minimize unnecessary colonoscopies and minimize healthcare burden while addressing the increase in EOCRC. Our findings suggest that BA calculations with peripheral blood collections could be an important component of such a risk model.

Prevention Relevance: Understanding the association of accelerated aging and colorectal PNPs presents an opportunity to develop a risk-stratified approach to colorectal cancer screening in young persons.
NEW RECORD OF THE CREEPING CUCUMBER, Melothria pendula L. (Cucurbitaceae) FROM HALMAHERA, NORTH MALUKU, INDONESIA
Authors: Arifiani Deby , Sulistyaningsih Lulut Dwi , Rugayah  , Sahroni Deni
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Botanical inventory in Halmahera island, North Maluku has found the species Melothria pendula for the first time.- In Indonesia, the species Melothria pendula is previously known only from Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Lesser Sunda Island.- DNA barcodes for the species Melothria pendula from Indonesia firstly deposited in NCBI GenBank.
AbstractThis study was conducted to explore Melothria pendula on Halmahera Island. Previously, the species is known to occur in Bali, Sulawesi, Sumatra, Java (Indonesia), Malay Peninsula, Sabah (Malaysia), as well as the Philippines. Results of this study improved insights into the current knowledge about geographic distribution of Melothria. Moreover, the description of the species, habitat, critical taxonomic notes, color plates, distribution map, and DNA barcode were also presented in this study.
GROWTH AND SURVIVAL OF SPINY LOBSTER, Panulirus homarus JUVENILES FED WITH DIFFERENT FORMULATED FEEDS
Authors: Sudewi  , Slamet Bejo , Adiasmara Giri Nyoman , Haryanti  , Rusdi Ibnu , Jones Clive , Irvin Simon
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Indonesia has remarkable natural resources of spiny lobster Panulirus homarus and an exceptional opportunity to establish the largest lobster aquaculture industry in the world.- However, culturing lobsters still relies on natural feeds (trash fish of fresh fishery by-catch) which are inefficient and environmentally unsustainable.- Developing formulated feed based on locally available ingredients is invaluable for replacing natural feeds to support sustainable lobster culture.- Formulated feed made of local fish meal provided the best growth of juvenile spiny lobster Panulirus homarus compared to imported fish meal.
AbstractSeveral studies suggested that good growth performance and survival of lobster juveniles can be achieved by feeding the lobsters with formulated feeds. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the growth and survival of spiny lobster Panulirus homarus juveniles fed with different diets having profiles based on a basal diet formulation and (2) to compare the growth of lobsters fed with an identical formulated feed with variations only in sources of fish meal and dry matter content. The feeding experiment was designed following a completely randomized design (CRD) with five diet treatments and five replicates for each treatment. Five experimental diets were prepared in this experiment, i.e., Diet A (basal diet prepared as moist pellets); Diet B (moist pellets with the same formulation as Diet A, using local fish meal); Diet C (moist pellets with the same formulation as Diet A, using imported fish meal); Diet D (dry pellets with the same formulation as Diet A, using imported fish meal); and Diet E (fresh fish). Juveniles of spiny lobster with an average weight of 3.00±0.07 g were allocated in 25 net cages (60 x 60 x 60 cm) placed in a circular HDPE canvas tank (7.5 m in diameter) at a density of 15 lobsters/cage in a flow-through seawater system. The juveniles were fed with the experimental diets twice/day for 12 weeks. The experiment showed that the best growth was observed in juveniles fed with moist feed containing local fish meal (Diet B) with the final weight reaching 18.74±2.30 g. Moist feed containing imported fish meal (Diet C) resulted in a higher survival rate (46.66%), and the lowest survival rate (13.33%) was obtained from juveniles fed with fresh fish (Diet E).
PLANT REGENERATION THROUGH PROTOCORM-LIKE BODIES DERIVED FROM STEM THIN LAYER OF Anubias barteri var. Nana Petite
Authors: Le Giang K. T. , Nguyen Tinh V. , Tran Ngan K. T , Dang Vy T. H. , Nguyen Phong V.
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Effective induction of PLBs from stem thin layer and shoot regeneration using specific BAP and auxin combinations.- Significant role of potato extract in enhancing shoot regeneration.- Highest shoot regeneration rate achieved with 3 mg/L BAP concentration.
AbstractAnubias barteri var. nana Petite, a highly valued ornamental aquatic plant in the Araceae family, faces challenges in vegetative propagation due to its slow multiplication rate. This study established a robust micropropagation protocol for rapid and efficient multiplication of A. barteri var. nana Petite. Explants were subjected to thorough sterilization, and shoot induction and multiplication were optimized using varying concentrations of Benzyl adenine (BA) on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. Protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) were induced from transverse thin-layer explants using combinations of BAP and Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). PLB multiplication and shoot regeneration were achieved through a sequential culture protocol. In addition, the influence of potato extract on shoot regeneration and the role of Indole-3-butyric Acid (IBA) in root development were explored. This study demonstrated a 100% survival rate of regenerated shoots in aquariums. Ongoing research is focused on further enhancing PLB multiplication. This optimized micropropagation protocol holds promise for the large-scale production of A. barteri var. nana Petite, addressing the limitations of natural propagation.
ECOLOGICAL INDICES OF MANGROVE GASTROPODS COMMUNITY IN NICKEL MINING IMPACTED AREA OF POMALAA, SOUTHEAST SULAWESI
Authors: Purnama Muhammad , Budi Prayitno Slamet , Rudolf Muskananfola Max , Suryanti Suryanti
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Gastropods (Invertebrates: Mollusca) have the potential to be developed as biological indicators of the health of coastal aquatic environments- The development of gastropod communities has been proven to provide a significant ecological response in assessing environmental quality in the mangrove in relation to overburden waste input from nickel mining activities.- Overburden waste systemically degrades the ground floor (substrate) of the mangrove ecosystem as an area where the entire life cycle of the gastropod community is carried out.AbstractThis research aimed to determine the structure of gastropod community in the nickel mining impact area in the mangrove ecosystem of Tambea Village, Pomalaa District, Southeast Sulawesi Province. The scope of this research was gastropod community influenced by nickel mining activities, especially the impact of overburden waste input (reddish-orange colored sediment) toward the health status of the aquatic environment based on the ecological indices of the gastropod community in the mangrove ecosystem of Tambea Village. Two sampling methods were adopted in this research: (1) purposive sampling method to determine stations (locus) and (2) simple random sampling method to determine the distribution of substations or sampling points. Gastropod samples were taken using handpicking techniques. The structure of gastropod community in mangrove area affected by overburden waste showed low diversity index values (H’ = 0.81), low species richness (R = 1.75), moderate evenness (E = 0.50), and dominance of certain species (C = 0.54). The results of this research showed the massive impact of overburdened waste, which can systemically degrade the life of the typical fauna that make up the mangrove ecosystem. Three gastropods species were observed to live in the research location, namely Telescopium telescopium, Terebralia sulcata, and Terebralia palustris having low abundance (1-9 ind./m2) which can survive in environment exposed to overburden waste. Many of gastropod species were found dead, indicated by the finding of 2 shells of Ellobium aurisjudae. The input of overburdened waste may imply degradation system of the aquatic environment, especially in the mangrove ecosystem. This research offers outlooks of overburden waste on aquatic biota in mangrove ecosystems and other complimentary ecosystems. In the end, the condition of the gastropod community in a watered area becomes a basis of the health status of the water environment.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PROBING AND CONTRAST RADIOGRAPHY FOR GENDER DETERMINATION IN RETICULATED PYTHONS (Malayopython reticulatus)
Authors: Tan Zhi Yien , Poetri Okti Nadia , Ulum Mokhamad Fakhrul
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Accurate gender identification supports effective breeding programs and ensures snakes' welfare.- This study emphasizes that probing is more reliable and efficient than contrast radiography for gender determination in reticulated pythons.- The probing method proved to have 100% accuracy in determining the gender of reticulated pythons, outperforming contrast radiography, which only achieved 75% accuracy.
AbstractReticulated pythons, like most snakes, do not exhibit noticeable sexual differences, which makes gender determination necessary. Probing and contrast radiography were chosen as methods to determine sex and to compare their accuracy. Six reticulated pythons with body lengths of 128-167 cm, tail lengths of 5.4-9.6 cm, and body diameters of 1.4-3.4 cm were examined twice by probing and contrast radiography. The results showed that probing had 100% accuracy, with probe lengths ranging from 1.37-3.60 cm for male snakes and 0.3-0.76 cm for female snakes. Contrast radiography had 75% accuracy, with the hemipenis appearing as a white silhouette and female snakes appearing colorless. The accuracy rates highlight the effectiveness of probing over contrast radiography for reliable gender determination in reticulated pythons
TREE SPECIES DIVERSITY AND MANAGEMENT IN AGROFORESTRY POHPOHAN (Pilea melastomoides)
Authors: Permatasari Adisti , Ananda Mosa Sheikha , Winata Bayu , Rusniarsyah Lufthi , Peniwidiyanti Peniwidiyanti , Izzbilhaq Izzbilhaq
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Pohpohan (Pilea melastomoides) is the main commodity cultivated by using traditional agroforestry in the traditional zone of Gunung Halimun Salak National Park as a fresh vegetable.- There is a limited database of plant species diversity in the traditional zones, which is dynamic and needs further research.- This study found 54 tree species from 37 families with the dominant family being Rubiaceae.- Most farmers cultivated Pohpohan by conducting plant spacing, maintenance, and harvesting. Their income is USD 154 – 256/month.
AbstractGunung Halimun Salak National Park (GHSNP) is Java's largest tropical mountain forest. GHSNP is still facilitating community grounds around GHSNP with the existence of a traditional zone. Pohpohan (Pilea melastomoides) is the primary commodity in the traditional zone cultivated by the local people around GHSNP. Pohpohan is planted using traditional agroforestry planting patterns. The traditional zone has a limited plant species diversity and management database, so further study is necessary. This study was conducted in the traditional zone of GHSNP, specifically at the agroforestry system in Tamansari Village, Bogor Regency. Data collection of tree diversity was conducted by establishing 25 plots. This study also interviewed 30 local farmers belonging to the Mandiri farmer group. There are 54 species from 37 families. Rubiaceae, Malvaceae, Fabaceae, and Phyllanthaceae families are the most common families. Pinus merkusii, Agathis dammara, and Maesopsis eminii have the highest important value index (IVI) values. Understorey and seedlings have a low category on H' due to the dominant planting of Pohpohan. Most respondents are people aged 35-55 (70%) with a farming area of 1000 m2. They cultivate Pohpohan by conducting plant spacing, plant maintenance (e.g., soil cultivation, weeding, fertilization), and harvesting. Most farmers conduct fertilization 9 times/year. Farmers produce 30.000-50.000 bunches/harvest. The price of a bunch of Pohpohan is 0,00054 USD. Their income is about 154 USD – 256 USD/month.
CONSERVATION STATUS AND PROPAGATION OF Camellia dalatensis AND Camellia capitata BY CUTTINGS
Authors: Le Hong En , Do Van Duong , Nguyen Pham Doan , Nguyen Van Phuc , Ngo Van Cam , Le Thi Thuy Hoa , Nguyen Ba Trung , Ho Si Hung , Ngo Giang Phi , Nguyen Thanh Nguyen , Hoang Thanh Truong , Truong Quang Cuong
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Camellia dalatensis and Camellia capitata are critically endangered species.- Habitat loss and deforestation threaten the survival of these Camellia species.- Vegetative propagation aids conservation of critically endangered Camellia species.- Rooting success depends on cutting types, growth regulators, and substrate mix.- Research aids conservation efforts for Vietnam’s rare and vulnerable flora.
AbstractCamellia dalatensis (V. D. Luong, Ninh & Hakoda) and Camellia capitata (Orel, Curry & Luu) are classified as critically endangered (CR) by the IUCN. Conservation solutions for these two species have not yet been fully implemented, while wild populations are declining. This research on vegetative propagation examined the efficacy of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA in solution or in powdered activated charcoal), cutting types (terminal shoot or stem cuttings), and substrates for the growth of cuttings (sand-coir dust mixes) on rooting efficiency. The highest rooting of C. dalatensis was observed in terminal shoot cuttings at 1,000 ppm IBA, and 25% sand and 75% coir dust substrate. Maximum values obtained were survival 95.6%, rooting percentage 88.9%, number of roots per cutting 6.9, root length 6.2 cm, and rooting index 42.9. For C. capitata, superior rooting was obtained with semi-hardwood cuttings, at 1,500 ppm IBA, and equal parts of sand and coir dust as substrate. Camellia capitata was more difficult to root, with maximum values of 65.6% survival, 52.2% rooting, 2.8 roots per cutting, 2.9 cm root length, and rooting index of 8.1. The results of this study can be used to support further propagation and conservation of these two endangered species.
ANTIMALARIAL MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY TRADITIONAL HEALERS IN BENGKULU PROVINCE OF INDONESIA
Authors: Susanti Dian , Putra Aditya Dwi Permana , Safrina Devi , Wijaya Nur Rahmawati , Adi M Bakti Samsu , Mujahid Rohmat , Rukmana Rizal Maarif , Subositi Dyah , Haryanti Sari , Siswanto Usman , Widiyastuti Yuli
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- This research provides information on the use of medicinal plants for treating malaria among ethnic groups in Bengkulu Province.- This research was part of RISTOJA (Research on Medicinal Plants), national research conducted by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia.- Several compounds found in medicinal plants used by traditional healers in the Bengkulu Province have been scientifically proven to be effective as antimalarial medication.AbstractMalaria is a disease with a high mortality rate and is still a significant problem in Indonesia and globally. One of the provinces in Indonesia that uses a diversity of medicinal plants to treat malaria is Bengkulu Province. This research aims to inventory and evaluate the use of medicinal plants as malaria drugs in Bengkulu Province. The research methods used were observation, interviews, and the collection of samples. Respondents were traditional healers from seven ethnic groups in Bengkulu. Plant species, use value (UV) parameters, fidelity level (FL), family use value (FUV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), and plant parts value (PPV) were analyzed. This study found 32 specific herbal concoctions and identified the use of 47 plant species in 28 families used by 20 healers in 6 ethnic groups of Bengkulu. The species Carica papaya, Peronema canescens, and Tinospora crispa have the highest use value, fidelity level, and relative frequency of citation. The Lamiaceae and Caricaceae families have the highest family use value (0.15). The leaves (43.9%) and barks (13.6%) were the most frequently utilized parts of medicinal plants to overcome malaria. Decoction was the method most widely used by traditional healers in Bengkulu to prepare conventional medicine formula.
TAXONOMIC DESCRIPTION AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF DILLENIA sp. AGAINST ESCHERICHIA coli
Authors: Martina Shiena Mae , Cabalquinto Gene Patrish , Lumogdang Leonel
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- The study first reported taxonomic study of Dillenia sp. in Malita, Davao, Occidental Philippines. - This is the first reported findings of the bacterial activity of the bark extract of Dillenia sp. against Escherichia coli. AbstractThe study aimed to provide a taxonomic description of Dillenia sp. and evaluate its antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli). The taxonomic description was characterized using the taxonomic keys and field guides. The antibacterial activity of Dillenia sp. was screened using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion assay. Taxonomic description confirms Dillenia sp. to be an angiosperm flowering seed plant native to the Philippines, characterized by its round-shaped growth and evergreen foliage. The antibacterial activity of Dillenia sp. bark extracts against E. coli were assessed using different concentrations (100 ppm, 500 ppm, and 1000 ppm) and extraction solvents (ethanolic, aqueous, and decoction). There are significant differences in the antibacterial activity observed among treatments within the decoction extracts, indicating varying effects on antibacterial activity. Post-hoc analysis revealed that concentrations of 100 ppm and 500 ppm were significantly more effective in inhibiting bacterial growth compared to 1000 ppm within the Decoction treatment. Each treatment showed distinct patterns of antibacterial activity, with ethanolic and aqueous extracts displaying relatively consistent activity across different concentrations, while the decoction extract exhibited concentration-dependent antibacterial activity. The study provides evidence of the antibacterial potential of Dillenia sp. bark extracts against Escherichia coli, with implications for further research and potential practical applications in combating bacterial infections. Recommendations include exploring different lower concentration ranges, considering different treatment formulations, investigating combination treatments, and assessing antimicrobial mechanisms to enhance efficacy and guide the development of novel antibacterial strategies.
Casas, fazenda e fábrica: espaços de circulação e o conhecimento geográfico sobre o Brasil nas primeiras décadas do Oitocentos
Authors: Beier José Rogério
Published: December 2024

Este artigo propõe uma reflexão acerca do problema da circulação do conhecimento geográfico nas três primeiras décadas do século XIX. Partindo do exemplo de quatro espaços de circulação, procurados amiúde por cientistas e homens de letras estrangeiros que visitaram o Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo e Minas Gerais, buscamos compreender o papel desses locais na produção e circulação do conhecimento geográfico antes mesmo da fundação do Instituto Histórico e Geográfico Brasileiro (1838). Para tanto, centramos o foco de nossa análise nos registros das visitas de cientistas como os barões de Eschwege e de Langsdorff, por exemplo, bem como no papel desempenhado pelo engenheiro-militar luso-brasileiro, Daniel Pedro Müller, como anfitrião de alguns desses viajantes na então capitania de São Paulo. Recorremos a fontes diversas, como os relatos de viagens, a correspondência oficial da administração colonial, ensaios histórico-estatísticos e plantas e mapas geográficos que foram estudados pelos viajantes ou produzidos por eles a partir das informações levantadas no âmbito de suas visitas. É nosso objetivo, portanto, apontar para a emergência desses espaços de circulação em diferentes partes do país, onde os cientistas estrangeiros se deparavam com conhecimentos geográficos produzidos por um grupo lato de pessoas, cuja abrangência incluía engenheiros-militares, matemáticos e astrônomos, mas também sertanistas e as populações indígenas. A melhor compreensão desses espaços, assim como do modo como o conhecimento ali acessado pelos estrangeiros se reconfigurou para ser empregado em seus trabalhos, contribui para reforçar não só a natureza compartilhada do processo de produção de conhecimento, mas, principalmente, como este último se constitui a partir de incessantes movimentos de idas e vindas, aspectos significativos para uma percepção mais aprofundada da noção de autoria em trabalhos de natureza científica ou, mais especificamente, geográfica.
Ipiranga: propriedade e construção de uma paisagem urbana
Authors: Tourinho Andréa de Oliveira , Pires Walter
Published: December 2024

The hill in the Ipiranga neighborhood, where the Museu Paulista and the Parque da Independência are located, maintains, since the end of the 19th century, an urban landscape of significant permanencies, even in the face of the intense transformations of the city of São Paulo in the last decades. This paper addresses the constitution process of this landscape, mainly from the perspective of land ownership, questioning the relationship between the material culture produced and the urban development. Therefore, we aim to understand the configuration and the characteristics of this territory, by investigating the interests of its owners and investors, who influenced its construction. Associated with the Independence site, this landscape nurtures for over a century the social imaginary of the Brazilian nation. However, the study presented herein seeks to analyze other processes of material and symbolic production that also provided Ipiranga with its current identity.
Indirect Verification and Historical Inquiry as a Parasitic Epistemic Practice
Authors: Yoon Jong–pil
Published: December 2024

This paper explores indirect verification in pragmatism and its impact on historical inquiry. Indirect verification, as articulated by William James and John Dewey, addresses the challenge of historical knowledge within pragmatism by confirming ideas about past events based on the consistency among their present effects, the ideas themselves, and anticipated future consequences. The paper identifies and discusses key challenges related to indirect verification, such as the ‘coherence verification fallacy,’ the ‘dilemma of interpreting historical consequences,’ and the issue of ‘methodological indirect verification.’ It argues that indirect verification does not substantiate historical interpretations but instead illuminates the nature of historical inquiry. Historical inquiry, it contends, operates as a parasitic epistemic practice, relying on the relationship between the present effects of the past, anticipated future developments, and everyday problem-solving practices.
Vaucheria macounii comb. et stat. nov. (Vaucheriaceae, Xanthophyceae): first occurrence in Europe and notes on the species
Authors: VISHNYAKOV VASILY S. , MOSEEV DMITRY S.
Published: December 2024

The article provides data on the first occurrence of Vaucheria longicaulis var. macounii Blum (Vaucheriaceae, Xanthophyceae) from the White Sea, an internal sea in northern European Russia. Originally described from the Pacific coast of the USA (Washington), the variety was subsequently found only in British Columbia, Canada. In 2021, the alga was first found in three localities on the northern coast of the Onega Peninsula. In 2022, it was found throughout collections from the eastern coast of the Onega Bay, indicating its much wider distribution. These records are considered the first in Russia, Europe, and the Arctic Ocean. The observations allowed the expansion of the morphological range of the variety in terms of shape and dimensions of gametangia. Due to significant differences in the shape and length of antheridia from the nominate variety of V. longicaulis, the raising of the variety to species level, as V. macounii, is proposed here.
Three new species of Luciogobius Gill (Teleostei: Gobiidae) from Taiwan
Authors: CHEN I-SHIUNG , REN YU-TING , JIANG GUO-CHEN , WANG SHEN-CHIH , CHANG CHIH-WEI
Published: December 2024

Three new species of gobiid fish of Luciogobius Gill, 1859 have been recently discovered in Taiwan. Luciogobius chiaojinensis sp. nov. is found and collected mainly from Keelung, northern Taiwan. It can be distinguished from other congeneric species by the following combination of features: (1) second dorsal fin rays: I/10 and anal fin rays I/11; (2) pectoral fin rays modally 13 and with one upper, short free soft ray; (3) vertebral count: 20 + 21 = 41; and (4) specific coloration: head and body with small tiny blackish brown spots. Head with densely-set small blackish brown spots in male; second dorsal fin brown and darker on lower half; pectoral fin base on upper 1/2 region with round melanophores; and pectoral fin membrane mostly spotless. Luciogobius huatungensis sp. nov. is found and collected mainly from Hualien and Taitung Counties in eastern Taiwan. It can be well distinguished from other congeneric species by the following combination of features: (1) second dorsal fin modally I/15 and anal fin I/15; (2) pectoral fin rays 14 and with 4 upper, free soft rays and 1 lower free rays; (3) vertebral count: 17 + 22 = 39; and (4) specific coloration: body brown with minute creamy yellow round spots; head and body with small brown spots; belly creamy yellow with fewer brown spots; second dorsal fin with tiny white marks; and pectoral fin with several round melanophores, most membrane with brown marks. Luciogobius newtaipeiensis sp. nov. is found and collected mainly from New Taipei City in northern Taiwan. It can be well distinguished from other congeneric species by the following combination of features: (1) second dorsal fin rays: I/11 and anal fin rays I/12; (2) pectoral fin rays modally 18 and with 1 upper free soft ray; (3) vertebral count: 16 + 20 = 36; (4) a dermal projection on posterior part of eye; and (5) specific coloration: head and body with small tiny brownish black spots; second dorsal rays light brown; and pectoral fin base with many small melanophores, fin membrane with melanophores on basal region. A diagnostic key for all six nominal species of Taiwan and the Matsu Islands will be provided in this paper.
A new freshwater gobiid species of Rhinogobius Gill, 1859 (Teleostei: Gobiidae) from Minjiang river basin, Fujian Province, southeastern China
Authors: CHEN I-SHIUNG , WEI YU-CHUN
Published: December 2024

A new freshwater gobies of Rhinogobius Gill, 1859 were discovered from the Minjiang Basin, Fujian Province, southeastern China. It belongs to fluvial species. The new species, Rhinogobius dongfongensis n. sp. which collected from Fujian Province of China can be well distinguished from all other congeners by the unique combination of the following features: (1) fins: second dorsal fin rays modally I/8–9; anal fin rays I/7; pectoral fin rays modally 15; (2) squamation: longitudinal scale series 32–33 (modally 33); perdorsal scales usually 5–6; (3) normal vertebral count 26; (4) rear edge of mouth merely extending beyond vertical of anterior margin of pupil in male and (5) its own specific colouration. The brief comparison and discussion of morphological differentiation from congeners of mainland China would be addressed.
A new species of the gobiid genus Priolepis (Teleostei:Gobiidae) from Taiwan
Authors: CHEN I-SHIUNG , CHEN JIE-TING , HAREFA TONISMAN
Published: December 2024

A gobiid genus Priolepis is described from coastal waters off Taiwan. The new species is belonging to Group III of Priolepis group that characterized by reduced pattern of transverse cheek papillae and the presence of predorsal scales. The new species Priolepis formosa sp. nov, is readily distinguished from congeners by the following unique combinations of characters: (1) fin counts D2 I/9, A I/7–8 (modally 8), P 17–19 (modally 18). (2) Squamation 25–27 (modally 26), TR 7–8 (modally 8), PreD 6–8 (modally 8); having no scales on cheek, opercle. (3) Head with reduced transverse papillae. (4) distinctive coloration: body light brown with scale pockets strongly outlined with melanophores, middle opercle with a vague reddish-pink pupil-sized blotch.
Sex-stratified Genomic Structural Equation Models of Posttraumatic Stress Inform PTSD Etiology: L'utilisation de la modélisation génomique par équations structurelles stratifiée par sexe du stress post-traumatique pour expliquer l'étiologie du TSPT
Authors: Moo-Choy Ashley , Stein Murray B. , Gelernter Joel , Wendt Frank R.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects 3.9%–5.6% of the worldwide population, with well-documented sex-related differences. While psychosocial and hormonal factors affecting sex differences in PTSD and posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptom etiology have been explored, there has been limited focus on the genetic bases of these differences. Many symptom combinations may confer a PTSD diagnosis. We hypothesized that these symptom combinations have sex-specific patterns, the examination of which could inform etiological differences in PTSD genetics between males and females.

Methods

To investigate this, we performed a sex-stratified multivariate genome-wide association study (GWAS) in unrelated UK Biobank (UKB) individuals of European ancestry. Using GWAS summary association data, genomic structural equation modelling was performed to generate sex-specific factor models using 6 indicator variables: trouble concentrating, feeling distant from others, irritability, disturbing thoughts, upset feelings, and avoidance of places/activities which remind the individual of a traumatic event.

Results

Models of male and female PTSD symptoms differed substantially (local standardized root mean square difference = 3.12) and significantly (χ2(5) = 28.03, P = 3.6 × 10−5). Independent 2-factor models best fit the data in both males and females; these factors were subjected to GWAS in each sex, revealing 3 genome-wide significant loci in females, mapping to SCAND3, WDPCP, and FAM120A. No genome-wide significant loci were identified in males. All 4 PTS factors (2 in males and 2 in females) were heritable.

Conclusions

By assessing the relationship between sex and PTSD symptoms, this study informs correlative and putatively causal etiological differences between males and females which support further investigation of sex differences in PTSD genetics.
A systematic review of using clinical decision support systems in corneal diseases
Authors: Ebrahimi Farzad , Ayatollahi Haleh , Zeraatkar Kimia
Published: December 2024

Background

Corneal diseases encompass a wide spectrum of eye diseases, and are among the leading causes of blindness. The use of clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) can assist physicians in timely diagnosis of these diseases and prevent their progression.

Objective

The present study aimed to conduct a systematic review of using CDSSs in corneal diseases to identify gaps in the current knowledge and propose for future research in designing, implementation, and effective use of health information technology in ophthalmology, with a specific focus on corneal diseases.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted in 2024. To retrieve relevant articles, PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, IEEE Xplore, and ProQuest databases as well as Google Scholar were searched until end of September 2024. After assessing the quality of the articles and risk of bias, the results were reported descriptively.

Results

Out of 279 articles, only eight articles met the research criteria. The results showed that clinical decision support systems were mainly developed for diagnosing corneal diseases, referring patients with low vision for rehabilitation, and identifying extraocular muscle pathology in strabismus. The systems were developed using different programming languages, their input data were patient data and images, and the output was diagnosis and more information about diseases. Most of the systems were active and used a knowledge base. The performance of the systems was evaluated by comparing physicians’ diagnosis and the system outputs, investigating users’ perspectives, and calculating accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity values.

Conclusion

The use of clinical decision support systems in corneal diseases leads to improve timely diagnosis, error reduction, and user satisfaction. However, further research is recommended to expand the use of new technologies such as artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of corneal diseases.
Loss of protein C vs protein S results in discrepant thrombotic phenotypes
Authors: Ku Chia-Jui , Yu Xinge , Zhao Queena Y. , Grzegorski Steven J. , Daniel Jeffrey G. , Ferguson Allison C. , Shavit Jordan A.
Published: December 2024

Venous thrombosis is a leading cause of morbidity/mortality and associated with deficiencies of the anticoagulant protein C (PC; PROC) and its cofactor, protein S (PS; PROS1). Heterozygous mutations increase the risk of adult-onset thrombosis, whereas homozygous mutations result in pre/neonatal lethal thrombosis. Phenotypes of patients with PC and PS deficiency are generally considered clinically indistinguishable. Here, we generate proc (zebrafish PROC ortholog) and pros1 knockouts through genome editing in zebrafish and uncover partially discordant phenotypes. proc−/− mutants exhibited ∼70% lethality at 1 year of age, whereas pros1−/− survival was unaffected. Induced venous endothelial injury in both mutants revealed reduced occlusive thrombus formation. This is consistent with the consumptive coagulopathy of zebrafish antithrombin 3 knockouts, which also results in spontaneous venous thrombosis. However, proc and pros1 mutants revealed a discrepancy. Although both mutants demonstrated spontaneous thrombosis, proc−/− was localized to the cardiac and venous systems, whereas pros1−/− was intracardiac. Aside from coagulation, PC has been shown to have PS-independent roles in inflammation. proc mutants displayed altered inflammatory markers and defects in neutrophil migration independent of pros1. Transcriptomic analysis and gene knockdown identified novel proc genetic interactions with adgrf7, a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) not previously known to be involved in coagulation. In summary, our data reveal differences between PC- and PS-deficient thrombosis, with cardiovascular tissue–specific phenotypes and survival differences, suggesting the possibility of underlying clinical differences in affected patients. This model of complete proc−/− deficiency in an accessible organism will facilitate further in vivo study of these distinctions, as well as PS-dependent and -independent functions of PC.
Lisocabtagene Maraleucel for Relapsed/Refractory Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Cell Therapy Consortium Real-World Analysis
Authors: Riedell Peter A. , Grady Connor B. , Nastoupil Loretta J. , Luna De Abia Alejandro , Ahmed Nausheen , Maziarz Richard T. , Hu Marie , Brower Jamie , Hwang Wei-Ting , Schuster Stephen J. , Chen Andy I. , Oluwole Olalekan O. , Bachanova Veronika , McGuirk Joseph P. , Perales Miguel-Angel , Bishop Michael R. , Porter David L.
Published: December 2024

Lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso-cel) is an autologous CD19-directed CAR T cell therapy approved for the treatment of relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL). We present a multicenter retrospective study evaluating safety, efficacy, and resource utilization of liso-cel in the standard-of-care setting. Patients received commercial liso-cel at 7 US medical centers and patient selection, toxicity management, and disease assessment followed institutional practices. Among 101 infused patients, the median age was 71 years (35% ≥75 years), 68% had a Charlson Comorbidity score ≥3, and 10% had secondary CNS involvement. Median number of prior therapies was 3, and due to comorbidities, 33% would have been ineligible for the TRANSCEND study. Bridging therapy was used in 60% (43% received polatuzumab-based treatment). Any Grade CRS occurred in 49% (3% Grade ≥3) with any Grade ICANS in 26% (10% Grade ≥3). The overall response rate (ORR) to bridging therapy was 45% with 18% achieving a complete response (CR). Following liso-cel infusion, the day 90 ORR was 66% (60% CR), and with a median follow-up of 15.5 months, 12-month progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival were 55% and 68%, respectively. A normal lactate dehydrogenase pre-lymphodepletion was associated with improved PFS and OS. These analyses confirm similar efficacy and safety of commercial liso-cel compared to pivotal trial results. Notably, these outcomes were achieved in patients predominantly of advanced age and with significant comorbidities. Results also likely reflect advancements in patient selection, toxicity management, and the use of novel bridging strategies.
Advances in tuberculosis biomarkers: unravelling risk factors, active disease and treatment success
Authors: Schildkraut Jodie A. , Köhler Niklas , Lange Christoph , Duarte Raquel , Gillespie Stephen H.
Published: December 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health threat and demands improved diagnostic and treatment monitoring methods. Conventional diagnostics, such as sputum smear microscopy and culture, are limited by slow results and low sensitivity, particularly in certain patient groups. Recent advances in biomarker research offer promising solutions in three key areas: risk of disease, diagnosis of active disease and monitoring of treatment response. For risk assessment, novel genetic signatures and metabolites show potential in predicting the progression from TB infection to active TB. A 16-gene signature, for example, predicts this progression with significant accuracy. In diagnosing active TB, RNA-based transcriptomic signatures provide higher diagnostic accuracy than traditional methods. These signatures, such as a three-gene RNA sequence, effectively differentiate active TB from other diseases and infections, addressing issues of specificity and sensitivity. Monitoring treatment response is crucial, given the varying response rates in treating TB. Emerging biomarkers focus on bacterial burden and host response. They offer more precise and timely assessments of treatment efficacy, enhance personalised treatment approaches and potentially improve patient outcomes. These advancements in biomarkers for TB risk, diagnosis and treatment response represent significant steps towards more effective TB management and control, aligning with global efforts to decrease the burden of TB. Here we aim to highlight several promising biomarkers used to predict risk of disease progression, active TB disease and treatment success.
Tailored internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy for depression in older adults: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nordgren Lise Bergman , Ludvigsson Mikael , Silfvernagel Kristin , Törnhage Linnéa , Sävås Lisa , Söderqvist Sophie , Dinnetz Sofia , Henrichsén Paulina , Larsson Johanna , Ström Hanna , Lindh Malin , Berger Thomas , Andersson Gerhard
Published: December 2024

Background

Depression is a common and serious problem in older adults, but few have access to psychological treatments. Internet-delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (ICBT) has the potential to improve access and has been found to be effective in adults with depression. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of tailored ICBT for depression in older adults aged 65 years or older. We also investigated if cognitive flexibility could predict outcome.

Methods

Following online recruitment from the community, included participants were randomly allocated to either ten weeks of clinician guided ICBT (n = 50) or to an active control group in the form of non-directive support (n = 51). Primary depression outcome was the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Several secondary outcomes were used, such as the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).

Results

Both treatment and active control groups significantly reduced their levels of depression, and the treatment group showed significantly greater improvement on the GDS-15 and BDI-II, but not on the PHQ-9. Between-group effect sizes as Cohen’s d were 0.78 (CI95% 0.36–1.20) on the GDS-15 and 0.53 (CI95% 0.11–0.94) on the BDI-II.

Conclusions

Tailored ICBT is superior to an active control for older adults with depression. Between-group effects were smaller than in previous RCTs, most likely because of the use of an active control condition. Cognitive flexibility did not predict outcome. We conclude that ICBT can be used for older adults with depression, and thus increase access to psychotherapy for this group.

Trial registration

This trial was retrospectively registered in clinicaltrials.gov (no. NCT05269524) the 8th of March 2022.
Antimicrobial effect of bioceramic sealer in necrotic primary molars
Authors: Aly Esraa Hamed
Published: December 2024

Background

Pulpally infected primary teeth should be retained until exfoliation whenever possible, as deciduous teeth are ideal space maintainers. Removing bacteria from the root canal is essential for a successful root canal treatment. Therefore, the present study compared the antimicrobial effects of resorbable bioceramic sealer with pastes of calcium hydroxide and iodoform mixed with zinc oxide and zinc oxide eugenol when used as intracanal medication on microorganisms of necrotic primary molars. The materials used in the study were: Paste A: Non-setting calcium hydroxide paste mixed with iodoform, Paste B: Zinc oxide eugenol, Paste C: Metapex with zinc oxide, Paste D: Metapex with zinc oxide eugenol, Paste E: Bio-C Pulpecto. Polymicrobial growth inhibition zone diameters around each of the five pastes were measured in mm to determine antimicrobial activity. The collected data were presented, tabulated, and statistically analyzed.

Results

Comparison among all groups demonstrated a significant difference between them (P < 0.0001) using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Furthermore, Dunn's multiple comparisons test revealed that: Paste C (0.93 ± 3.55) and Paste A (2.13 ± 2.67) exhibited significantly the lowest antibacterial activity with no significant difference between them. Subsequently, Paste D (5.2 ± 5.89) and Paste E (8.73 ± 1.36) displayed no significant difference between them. In contrast, Paste B (11.8 ± 1.58) demonstrated significantly the highest antibacterial activity.

Conclusions

Bioceramic sealers could be utilized as filling material for root canal in primary molars because of their antimicrobial and biological properties.