Browse publications by year: 2025

  1. Gu Q, Takayama Y, Natori N, Hirahara M, Chowdhary AK, Toda T
    Bioprocess Biosyst Eng, 2025 Jan;48(1):43-52.
    PMID: 39322781 DOI: 10.1007/s00449-024-03092-3
    Freshwater microalga Haematococcus lacustris rich in astaxanthin, as a supplemental live diet can directly supply natural astaxanthin to the aquaculture organisms, except marine aquaculture organisms, since H. lacustris cannot tolerate seawater salinity. The objective of the present study is to provide a salinity acclimation method that allows H. lacustris to survive and accumulate astaxanthin with the aim of developing a novel supplemental live diet for marine aquaculture organisms. H. lacustris cultured in freshwater was subjected to different stepwise salinity acclimation processes (two-, three-, and four-shift). As the controls, H. lacustris was exposed to five constant salinities conditions (0, 0.05, 0.075, 0.3, and 0.6 M NaCl, respectively). Among the controls, almost all cells in the 0.3 M and 0.6 M NaCl conditions died immediately. In contrast, H. lacustris in the stepwise salinity acclimation processes survived in 0.6 M NaCl (equivalent to seawater salinity of 35 psu), showing the highest living-cell proportion (50.0%) and astaxanthin yield (0.72 mg·L-1) in the four-shift. The present study first demonstrated that H. lacustris tolerated seawater salinity through a stepwise acclimation process, proving a new strategy to supply live microalgal diets rich in natural astaxanthin for marine aquaculture.
    MeSH terms: Acclimatization; Fresh Water*; Seawater*; Xanthophylls/metabolism; Salinity*
  2. Navien TN, Thevendran R, Citartan M
    Anal Biochem, 2025 Apr;699:115752.
    PMID: 39719189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2024.115752
    Progesterone receptor is one of the markers used in antibody-based immunohistochemistry for the diagnostics of breast cancer. The shortcomings of antibodies raise the need to focus on alternative molecular recognition. Aptamers are chosen due to their many advantages as compared to antibodies. However, the rigor of conventional SELEX intensifies the efforts to select DNA aptamers using in silico-docking approach. In this study, we performed in silico selection and experimental validation of DNA aptamers against the progesterone receptor DNA binding domain (PR DBD) using the ssDNA sequences derived from human progesterone response elements (PREs). Firstly, a library of sixty-four different ssDNA was subjected to secondary and tertiary structural determination prior to docking using PatchDock. PRDBDapt17 appeared to be the best candidate, with the highest docking scores of 11334. Molecular dynamic simulation also substantiates PRDBDapt17 as the most potent aptamer. This aptamer, PRDBDapt17 was validated by using direct ELASA. Direct ELASA demonstrated a limit of detection of 3.91 nM while the equilibrium dissociation constant was estimated at 366.6 nM. As PRDBDapt17 also interacts with estrogen receptor and androgen receptor, it can also be a potential universal binder of steroid hormone receptors. PRDBDapt17 can be used in the diagnostics of breast cancer.
    MeSH terms: Computer Simulation; DNA, Single-Stranded/metabolism; DNA, Single-Stranded/chemistry; Female; Humans; SELEX Aptamer Technique; Molecular Dynamics Simulation; Molecular Docking Simulation; Protein Domains
  3. Robba C, Picetti E, Vásquez-García S, Abulhasan YB, Ain A, Adeleye AO, et al.
    Intensive Care Med, 2025 Jan;51(1):4-20.
    PMID: 39847066 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-024-07756-2
    BACKGROUND: Invasive systems are commonly used for monitoring intracranial pressure (ICP) in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and are considered the gold standard. The availability of invasive ICP monitoring is heterogeneous, and in low- and middle-income settings, these systems are not routinely employed due to high cost or limited accessibility. The aim of this consensus was to develop recommendations to guide monitoring and ICP-driven therapies in TBI using non-invasive ICP (nICP) systems.

    METHODS: A panel of 41 experts, that regularly use nICP systems for guiding TBI care, was established. Three scoping and four systematic reviews with meta-analysis were performed summarizing the current global-literature evidence. A modified Delphi method was applied for the development of recommendations. An in-person meeting with group discussions and voting was conducted. Strong recommendations were defined for an agreement of at least 85%. Weak recommendations were defined for an agreement of 75-85%.

    RESULTS: A total of 34 recommendations were provided (32 Strong, 2 Weak) divided into three domains: general consideration for nICP use, management of ICP using nICP methods and thresholds of nICP tools for escalating/de-escalating treatment. We developed four clinical algorithms for escalating treatment and heatmaps for de-escalating treatment.

    CONCLUSIONS: Using a mixed-method approach involving literature review and an in-person consensus by experts, a set of recommendations designed to assist clinicians managing TBI patients using nICP systems plus clinical assessment, in the presence or absence of brain imaging, were built. Further clinical studies are required to validate the potential use of these recommendations in the daily clinical practice.

    MeSH terms: Algorithms*; Delphi Technique; Humans; Monitoring, Physiologic/instrumentation; Monitoring, Physiologic/methods; Monitoring, Physiologic/standards; Consensus*
  4. Martínez-Sánchez A, Ivorra T, Velásquez Y, Cerdá-Ortega L, Ibáñez C, Rojo S
    Int J Legal Med, 2025 Jan 23.
    PMID: 39847076 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-025-03425-1
    The range of the oriental latrine fly (Chrysomya megacephala) is currently expanding. It coexists with another blowfly with a similar ecology, the green bottle fly (Lucilia sericata), one of the most abundant species in carrion during warm months. It is essential to understand the influence of temperature, larval substrate type, and larval competition on the development rates of these necrophagous calliphorids to evaluate the role and the adaptation of C. megacephala in the ecosystems, and on the necrophagous Diptera community. Moreover, due to the forensic importance of both species, biological data are need for forensic purposes in south-west Europe. This study represents the first on the biology of C. megacephala in Europe, and of L. sericata in Spain. We performed a field experiment in Alicante province (south-east Spain) to analyse the monthly abundance of both species in natural conditions, and three lab rearing experiments involving both species to evaluate (i) development at constant temperatures, (ii) the growth of larvae and pupae on different substrates, and (iii) coexistence in pure and mixed cultures under controlled abiotic conditions. The results allowed us to analyse the biological differences between both species, and their effects on the forensic entomology application.
  5. Kok HC, Chang AB, Fong SM, McCallum GB, Yerkovich ST, Grimwood K
    Paediatr Drugs, 2025 Jan 23.
    PMID: 39847251 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-024-00680-4
    Despite significant global reductions in cases of pneumonia during the last 3 decades, pneumonia remains the leading cause of post-neonatal mortality in children aged <5 years. Beyond the immediate disease burden it imposes, pneumonia contributes to long-term morbidity, including lung function deficits and bronchiectasis. Viruses are the most common cause of childhood pneumonia, but bacteria also play a crucial role. However, the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for bacterial pneumonia remains uncertain in both low- and middle-income countries and in high-income countries. Knowing the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for pneumonia is crucial for effective antimicrobial stewardship. This is especially important as concerns mount over rising antibiotic resistance in respiratory bacterial pathogens, which increases the risk of treatment failure. Numerous studies have focused on the duration of oral antibiotics and short-term outcomes, such as clinical cure and mortality. In contrast, only one study has examined both intravenous and oral antibiotics and their impact on long-term respiratory outcomes following pneumonia hospitalisation. However, study findings may be influenced by their inclusion criteria when children unlikely to have bacterial pneumonia are included. Efforts to differentiate between bacterial and non-bacterial pneumonia continue, but a validated, accurate, and simple point-of-care diagnostic test remains elusive. Without certainty that a child has bacterial pneumonia, determining the optimal duration of antibiotic treatment is challenging. This review examines the evidence for the recommended duration of antibiotics for treating uncomplicated pneumonia in otherwise healthy children and concludes that the question of duration is unresolved.
  6. Lee JK
    Arch Osteoporos, 2025 Jan 23;20(1):11.
    PMID: 39847260 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-024-01482-4
    Osteoporosis, fragility fractures, and bone health optimization share the same pathophysiology, diagnostic tools, risk assessment, and treatments. Grouping them into "Lee's TRIAD" allows surgeons and physicians to collaborate more efficiently, using unified principles and strategies for managing these conditions.

    PURPOSE: The primary goal of osteoporosis management is to prevent fragility fractures, which occur from falls from standing height or less in individuals over fifty. However, the management of bone health optimization is often neglected in patients undergoing elective surgeries, such as arthroplasty and spinal surgeries. The objective of this article is to link all these three conditions into a TRIAD so that surgeons and physicians can collaborate more effectively, utilizing similar principles and strategies for better management.

    METHODOLOGY: Clinical approaches based on country-specific guidelines are commonly used to manage osteoporosis. However, skeletal assessments are rarely conducted before or after elective procedures, leading to overlooked conditions such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, and fragility fracture risk factors. These three conditions are illustrated from the patient case study shown, to highlight the importance of not neglecting bone health optimization in high risk individuals undergoing elective surgery, with underlying osteopenia and multiple risk factors who sustained fragility fracture intraoperatively.

    RESULT: Patients undergoing elective surgeries often have their bone health neglected, leading to a higher incidence of complications such as aseptic loosening and peri-prosthetic fractures due to poor bone quality and density. Bone health assessment and optimization therefore is essential in patients with osteoporosis, osteopenia with clinical risk factors, and patients with history of fragility fracture, to ensure implants sit on bone with good density and quality to minimize the complications.

    CONCLUSION: By combining osteoporosis, fragility fractures, and bone health optimization into a TRIAD, "Lee's TRIAD," surgeons and physicians can collaborate more effectively, utilizing similar principles and strategies for better management.

    MeSH terms: Aged; Bone Diseases, Metabolic; Female; Humans; Risk Factors; Bone Density; Elective Surgical Procedures; Risk Assessment
  7. Qi Y, Mohamad E, Azlan AA, Zhang C, Ma Y, Wu A
    J Med Internet Res, 2025 Jan 23;27:e64981.
    PMID: 39847411 DOI: 10.2196/64981
    BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major global health issue, with approximately 70% of cases linked to modifiable risk factors. Digital health solutions offer potential for CVD prevention; yet, their effectiveness in covering the full range of prevention strategies is uncertain.

    OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to synthesize current literature on digital solutions for CVD prevention, identify the key components of effective digital interventions, and highlight critical research gaps to inform the development of sustainable strategies for CVD prevention.

    METHODS: Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed to identify original English-language studies published between January 2000 and May 2024 that examined primary or secondary CVD prevention through digital solutions. The exclusion criteria included: telephone-only interventions, abstract-only publications, methodology-focused studies without primary data, studies without participants or specific groups, and studies with no follow-up period. The literature search used the string with terms like "digital health," "mHealth," "mobile health," "text message," "short message service," "SMS," "prevention," "prevent," "cardiovascular disease," "CVD," etc. Study bias was assessed using the RoB 2 (Cochrane Collaboration) and the ROBINS-I tool (Cochrane Collaboration). Data on prevention components, prevention types, study design, population, intervention, follow-up duration, personnel, and delivery settings were extracted.

    RESULTS: A total of 2871 studies were identified through the search. After excluding ineligible studies, 30 studies remained, including 24 randomized controlled trials. The reviewed digital solutions for CVD prevention focused on baseline assessment (29/30, 97%), physical activity counseling (18/30, 60%), tobacco cessation (14/30, 47%), blood pressure management (13/30, 43%), and medication adherence (10/30, 33%). The technologies used were categorized into 3 types, smartphones and wearables (16/30, 53%), email and SMS communications (12/30, 40%), and websites or web portals (3/30, 10%). The majority of the study outcomes addressed blood pressure (14/30, 47%), exercise capacity (12/30, 40%), weight (12/30, 40%), and lipid profile (11/30, 37%), while fewer focused on nicotine dependence (9/30, 30%), medication use (8/30, 27%), quality of life (7/30, 23%), dietary habits (5/30, 17%), intervention adherence (4/30, 13%), waist circumference (4/30, 13%), and blood glucose levels (2/30, 7%).

    CONCLUSIONS: Digital solutions can address challenges in traditional CVD prevention by improving preventive behaviors and monitoring health indicators. However, most evaluated interventions have focused on medication use, quality of life, dietary habits, adherence, and waist circumference. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term impact of more comprehensive interventions on key cardiovascular outcomes.

    MeSH terms: Humans; Telemedicine*; Text Messaging
  8. Afzal M, Abusalah MAHA, Shehzadi N, Absar M, Ahmed N, Khan S, et al.
    PLoS One, 2025;20(1):e0310103.
    PMID: 39847593 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0310103
    Mushrooms are considered one of the safe and effective medications because they have great economic importance due to countless biological properties. Cordyceps militaris contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-cancerous properties. This study was projected to analyze the potentials of biometabolites and to extract antimicrobial peptides and protein from the C. militaris. An in-vitro analysis of biometabolites and antimicrobial peptides was performed to investigate their pharmacological potentials followed by quantification and characterization of extracted protein. Computational analysis on non-small cell lung cancer genes (NSCLC) was performed on quantified compounds to interpret the biometabolites from C. militaris that could be potential drug candidate molecules with high specificity and potency. A total of 34 compounds representing 100% of total detected constituents identified were identified using GCMS analysis and 20 compounds using LC-MS which showed strong biological activities. FT-IR spectroscopy manifest powerful instant peaks to have different bioactive components including carboxylic acid, phenols, amines and alkanes present in methanolic extract of C. militaris. In C. militaris, higher protein concentration was observed in 70% concentration of protein extract (500 μg/ml ± 0.025). The best antioxidant activity (% Radical scavenging activity) of methanolic extracts was 80a ± 0.03, antidiabetic activity was 37 ± 0.057 and anti-inflammatory activity was 40 ± 0.021 at 12 mg/ml. Antibacterial activity for different concentrations of Cordyceps protein and methanolic extracts was significantly (p < 0.05). Indolizine, 2-(4-methylphenyl) has most binding affinity (micromolar) and optimized properties to be selected as the lead inhibitor. It interacts favorably with the active site of RET gene of NSCLC and is neuroprotective and hepatoprotective.
    MeSH terms: Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology; Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry; Antioxidants/pharmacology; Antioxidants/chemistry; Humans; Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared
  9. Zhang T, Wang Y, Zhu J, Chen C, Jiang T, Fang S, et al.
    Food Chem, 2025 Apr 30;472:142991.
    PMID: 39848055 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2025.142991
    To investigate the mechanism of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa on structural protein degradation and taste development of Jinhua ham, the effects of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and Pichia kudriavzevii on proteolytic enzyme activities, surface hydrophobicity, myofibril microstructure, protein degradation, free amino acids and sensory attributes were investigated during the dry-ripening of Jinhua ham. The inoculation of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa EIODSF019 (RE) and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa XZY63-3 (RX) consistently exhibited higher proteolytic enzyme activities compared with Pichia kudriavzevii XS-5 (PK). The decrease of α-helix exposing more internal hydrophobic groups of myofibrillar proteins, contributed to higher surface hydrophobicity of RE compared with PK and RX. RE showed the highest proteolysis index among all groups, which could be attributed to more degradation of myosin, actin and troponin; the changes were confirmed by the intense breakdown of myofibrils observed by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. 36 down-regulated proteins mainly derived from myofibrils and catalysis-related enzymes were identified in RE by TMT-labeled quantitative proteomics analysis. The degradation of myosin, actin and troponin showed the most intense response to the accumulation of glutamic acid, lysine and alanine. Partial least square regression analysis and correlation analysis revealed that the breakdown of MYH14, MYH3, TNNI1 and TNNTI was highly correlated with improvement of umami, richness and aftertaste.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Humans; Swine; Taste*; Proteomics*; Proteolysis*
  10. Loo YS, Yusoh NA, Lim WF, Ng CS, Zahid NI, Azmi IDM, et al.
    Nanomedicine (Lond), 2025 Feb;20(4):401-416.
    PMID: 39848784 DOI: 10.1080/17435889.2025.2452151
    Phytochemicals are typically natural bioactive compounds or metabolites produced by plants. Phytochemical-loaded nanocarrier systems, designed to overcome bioavailability limitations and enhance therapeutic effects, have garnered significant attention in recent years. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has intensified interest in the therapeutic application of phytochemicals to combat viral infections. This review explores nanoparticle-based treatment strategies incorporating phytochemicals for antiviral application, highlighting their demonstrated antiviral mechanisms. It specifically examines the antiviral activities of phytochemical-loaded nanosystems against (i) influenza virus (IAV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); (ii) mosquito-borne viruses [dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), and Chikungunya (CHIKV)]; and (iii) sexually transmitted/blood borne viruses [e.g. herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)]. Furthermore, this review highlights the emerging role of these nanosystems in photodynamic therapy (PDT)-mediated attenuation of viral proliferation, and offers a perspective on the future directions of research in this promising area of multimodal therapeutic approach.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Humans; Virus Diseases/drug therapy
  11. Permal N, Nagi F, Marsadek M, Ramasamy AK, Boopalan N, Balakrishna GKAL
    ISA Trans, 2025 Jan 09.
    PMID: 39848905 DOI: 10.1016/j.isatra.2025.01.004
    As global interest grows in renewable energy sources, the impact of combined Electric Vehicle (EV) and PhotoVoltaic (PV) penetration on the power grid stability requires renewed attention, to incorporate new technologies to maintain the power quality under operational constraints. Energy-saving techniques such as Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) allow the power utilities to transmit voltage at a lower operation limit, increasing the generation margin to absorb the peak load demands. Increased reverse PV penetration results in grid overvoltage while EV charging absorbs the reactive power causing grid instability. Both overvoltage and loss of reactive power in the grid can be reduced by using CVR and reactive power injection techniques. A power electronic secondary var controller (SVC) can dynamically inject reactive power into selected grid buses. This work compares the voltage stability of an IEEE 33 bus system operating with and without CVR. The simulation studies analyzed the effects of EV penetration level, and PV hosting capacity with SVC compensation paired with and without conservation voltage reduction technique. The analysis results demonstrate that tandem usage of CVR and SVC maintains the grid voltage under operational limits, meets load and EV demand, and increases power efficiency and PV penetration.
  12. Chang L, Nordin N, Zhao S, Gu X, Zhao Y
    Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 23;15(1):2913.
    PMID: 39848985 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-85729-1
    Prefabricated buildings have a series of advantages such as high efficiency, energy savings, and environmental protection, and are being strongly promoted by the Chinese government. However, due to the late start of prefabricated buildings in China, the installation process of prefabricated components is relatively complex, leading to difficulties in quality and safety control. A novel evaluation methodology integrating the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) with prospect theory and interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy numbers (IVPFNs) is proposed. Fully considering the subjective value perceptions of decision-makers when faced with losses and gains, a risk evaluation model is established based on different types of decision-makers. This model is then compared with the weight correction coefficient model from a balanced perspective to prevent bias caused by over-reliance on decision-makers' subjective preferences. This study establishes an assessment index system for assembly construction risk, considering personnel, materials, machinery, management, and technology factors. By merging prospect theory with the TOPSIS method, the application of Pythagorean fuzzy numbers is refined, enhancing the group decision-making process for evaluating risks in prefabricated construction projects. On the other hand, the prospect theory approach can focus on the actual psychological state of managers during decision-making, addressing the research gap concerning the impact of managers' psychological states on the evaluation process. The study identifies critical risk factors and suggests specific risk management strategies to improve the risk mitigation capabilities of construction entities, offering a structured approach to enhancing the efficiency and safety of prefabricated construction projects.
  13. Shaberi HSA, Kappassov A, Matas-Gil A, Endres RG
    Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 23;15(1):2948.
    PMID: 39849094 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-86854-7
    Many cellular patterns exhibit a reaction-diffusion component, suggesting that Turing instability may contribute to pattern formation. However, biological gene-regulatory pathways are more complex than simple Turing activator-inhibitor models and generally do not require fine-tuning of parameters as dictated by the Turing conditions. To address these issues, we employ random matrix theory to analyze the Jacobian matrices of larger networks with robust statistical properties. Our analysis reveals that Turing patterns are more likely to occur by chance than previously thought and that the most robust Turing networks have an optimal size, consisting of only a handful of molecular species, thus significantly increasing their identifiability in biological systems. Broadly speaking, this optimal size emerges from a trade-off between the highest stability in small networks and the greatest instability with diffusion in large networks. Furthermore, we find that with multiple immobile nodes, differential diffusion ceases to be important for Turing patterns. Our findings may inform future synthetic biology approaches and provide insights into bridging the gap to complex developmental pathways.
    MeSH terms: Algorithms; Models, Biological; Gene Regulatory Networks*
  14. Askarizadeh MM, Gholamhosseini L, Khajouei R, Homayee S, Askarizadeh F, Ahmadian L
    BMC Med Inform Decis Mak, 2025 Jan 23;25(1):37.
    PMID: 39849432 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-024-02817-4
    BACKGROUND: Healthcare providers (HCP) face various stressful conditions in hospitals that result in the development of anxiety disorders. However, due to heavy workloads, they often miss the opportunity for self-care. Any effort to diminish this problem improves the quality of Healthcare providers and enhances patient safety. various applications have been developed to empower Healthcare providers and reduce their anxiety, but these applications do not meet all their individual and professional needs. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of mobile-based self-care applications on reducing anxiety in healthcare providers.

    METHODS: In this study, keywords such as anxiety, self-care, healthcare providers, and mobile health were used to search PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for papers published in the recent ten years (2014-2024). We used the PRISMA diagram to report the results. Ten out of 2515 retrieved articles that addressed the effect of mobile-based self-care applications on Healthcare providers' anxiety were included for analysis. Data were extracted using a data collection form designed based on the research objective. We used this form to collect data including the author's name, publication year, country, study type, intervention duration, study objectives, platform used, Modules presented in technologies, Methods of reducing anxiety, questionnaire details, and Effectiveness assessment. Data collected from the studies were analyzed by SPSS-21 using frequency and percentage.

    RESULTS: Based on the results, studies were conducted in nine different countries, and the intervention duration and strategies for reducing anxiety using self-care applications ranged from two weeks to four months. The impact of mobile health applications, their content, and intervention strategies on reducing anxiety were positive. The anxiety-reduction strategies were varied among applications. Anxiety reduction strategies in this study included mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, physical activities, breathing exercises, dietary regimes, and nature exploration through virtual reality. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness constituted the most frequently applied reduction techniques across the studies to reduce anxiety in Healthcare providers.Furthermore, the findings revealed the effectiveness of interventions in reducing other mental disorders such as anxiety, stress, depression, drug abuse, and psychotropic drug use of Healthcare providers.

    CONCLUSION: The use of mobile health applications with practical strategies is effective in reducing anxiety and can also reduce other anxiety disorders in Healthcare professional.

    MeSH terms: Health Personnel*; Humans; Self Care*; Telemedicine; Mobile Applications*
  15. Yuan Q, Deng N, Soh KG
    BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil, 2025 Jan 23;17(1):12.
    PMID: 39849510 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-025-01059-9
    BACKGROUND: Plyometric training (PT) was explored as an effective intervention for enhancing muscle strength and power. However, its specific impact on these attributes in martial arts athletes had not been systematically evaluated. Therefore, the objective of this meta-analysis was to provide a quantitative assessment of the impact of PT on muscle strength and power in martial arts athletes. Additionally, it aimed to investigate potential moderators that could influence this relationship.

    METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted across several databases, including SPORTDiscus, PubMed, CNKI, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection. Studies were included if they were controlled trials that examined the effects of PT on measures of muscle strength and/or muscle power in martial arts athletes. Effect sizes (ESs) were calculated using a random-effects model based on weighted and averaged standardized mean differences. Moderator analyses were performed for variables related to age and training. The ROB2 and ROBINS-I tools were used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and the extended Egger's test.

    RESULTS: The analysis included fifteen studies with a total of 499 participants aged 12 to 24 years. The findings indicated that PT had a small-to-moderate effect on muscle strength (ES = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.38 to 0.87, p 

  16. Hornok S, Kontschán J, Keve G, Takács N, Van Nguyen D, Ho KNP, et al.
    Parasit Vectors, 2025 Jan 23;18(1):21.
    PMID: 39849649 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06641-7
    BACKGROUND: Vietnam and its region are regarded as an ixodid tick biodiversity hotspot for at least two genera: Haemaphysalis and Dermacentor. To contribute to our knowledge on the tick fauna of this country, ticks from these two genera as well as an Ixodes species were analyzed morphologically and their molecular-phylogenetic relationships were examined in taxonomic and geographical contexts.

    METHODS: For this study, seven Haemaphysalis sp. ticks were removed from dogs and collected from the vegetation. These showed morphological differences from congeneric species known to occur in Vietnam. In addition, three Ixodes sp. ticks were collected from pygmy slow lorises (Xanthonycticebus pygmaeus), and a Dermacentor female had been previously collected from the vegetation. After DNA extraction, these were molecularly or phylogenetically analyzed based on the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) and 16S rRNA genes.

    RESULTS: The three species were morphologically identified as (i) Ixodes granulatus, which had nearly or exactly 100% sequence identities to conspecific ticks reported from large (approximately 2000 km) geographical distances but was more different (having lower, only 94.2% cox1 and 96.7% 16S rRNA sequence identity) from samples collected within 1000 km of Vietnam in Southern China and Malaysia, respectively; (ii) Haemaphysalis bispinosa, which showed 100% sequence identity to samples reported within both narrow and broad geographical ranges; and (iii) a new species, Dermacentor pseudotamokensis Hornok sp. nov., described here morphologically and shown to be phylogenetically a sister species to Dermacentor tamokensis.

    CONCLUSIONS: Haemaphysalis bispinosa shows genetic homogeneity in the whole of South and Southeast Asia, probably owing to its frequent association with domestic ruminants and dogs (i.e. frequently transported hosts). However, I. granulatus, the Asian rodent tick, has a mixed geographical pattern of haplotypes, probably because it may associate with either synanthropic or wild-living rodents as primary hosts. This tick species is recorded here, for the first time to our knowledge, as parasitizing lorises in Vietnam and its region. Based on phylogenetic analyses, D. pseudotamokensis Hornok sp. nov., recognized and described here for the first time, was almost certainly misidentified previously as Dermacentor steini, drawing attention to the need to barcode all Dermacentor spp. in Southern Asia.

    MeSH terms: Animals; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics; Dog Diseases/parasitology; Dogs; Female; Lorisidae/anatomy & histology; Lorisidae/classification; Lorisidae/genetics; Lorisidae/parasitology; Male; Phylogeny*; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics; Tick Infestations/parasitology; Tick Infestations/veterinary; Vietnam; Sequence Analysis, DNA; Ixodes/anatomy & histology; Ixodes/classification; Ixodes/genetics
  17. Siddiquy M, Al-Maqtari QA, Ghamry M, Golshany H, Othman N, Mahdi AA, et al.
    Food Res Int, 2025 Feb;201:115564.
    PMID: 39849713 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115564
    This research is designed to enhance the physio-chemical properties, constancy, and antioxidant activities of water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions containing chia seed oil (CSO) by utilizing mung bean protein isolate (MBPI)-peach gum (PG) conjugates, which were created through the Maillard reaction (MR), as the emulsifying agents. The emulsions were prepared using MBPI-PG produced through the Maillard reaction (EMRP) at concentrations of 0.5 %, 1 %, and 1.5 %. Another set of emulsions, serving as control samples, was prepared using MBPI-PG without the MR (EC) at the same concentrations. The EMRP samples demonstrated optimum characteristics during storage over 30 days at 25 °C, particularly at 1 % concentration, including the droplet size (176.37 nm), PDI (0.3), zeta potential (-47.52 Mv), quantity of absorbed protein (63.48 %), creaming index (22.99 %), and viscosity compared to EC. The emulsions prepared with MRP exhibited significantly lower POV (1.45 mM/kg oil) and TBARS (59.17 mM/kg oil) formation rates than EC. The EMRP1% formulation displayed the lowest release of antioxidant compounds among all formulations, suggesting low release control during storage. Molecular docking results confirmed that adding EMRP1% to the CSO emulsion significantly improved its quality and stability. This emulsifier could hold significant promise for future advancements in the food industry.
    MeSH terms: Particle Size; Viscosity; Maillard Reaction*; Plant Gums/chemistry; Vigna/chemistry
  18. Liu M, Mo Y, Dong Z, Yang H, Lin B, Li Y, et al.
    Food Res Int, 2025 Feb;201:115642.
    PMID: 39849782 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.115642
    Specific spoilage organisms (SSOs) are the key factors affecting the deterioration of large yellow croaker. This study investigated the antibacterial activity and mechanism of Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) against Shewanella putrefaciens. The effects of different concentrations of ZnO-NPs (0.5, 1, 2 mg/mL) combined with seawater slurry ice preservation on storage quality and microbial community of large yellow croaker were further investigated. The results showed that ZnO-NPs had a strong antibacterial effect on Shewanella putrefaciens, which destroyed the integrity of the cell membrane, resulting in nucleic acid leakage and increased electrical conductivity. In addition, ZnO-NPs could effectively inhibit the proliferation of microorganisms, slow down the rate of lipid oxidation, delay the rise of pH value and total volatile basic nitrogen, and maintain the color of fish. Among them, 2 mg/mL ZnO-NPs treatment showed the best preservation effect on large yellow croaker. High-throughput sequencing results showed that Pseudoalteromonas and Shewanella became the dominant spoilage bacteria with the extension of storage time. ZnO-NPs significantly reduced the relative abundance of dominant spoilage bacteria and changed the microbial composition of fish. Inhibition of the growth of SSOs was important for delaying spoilage and prolonging the shelf-life of large yellow croaker. Therefore, ZnO-NPs combined with seawater slurry ice preservation could be used as a new storage method, which provides a new idea for food quality and safety control.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Food Microbiology; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Nanoparticles; Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry; Food Storage
  19. Goh LH, Manoharan M, Goh KL
    JGH Open, 2025 Jan;9(1):e70102.
    PMID: 39850090 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.70102
    Primary intestinal lymphangiectasia (PIL) is a rare protein-losing gastroenteropathy characterized by diffuse or localized ectasia of the enteric lymphatics, which can be accompanied by lymphatic abnormalities in other parts of the body. This condition results in hypoalbuminemia, hypogammaglobulinemia, and lymphopenia due to the abnormal leakage of lymphatic fluid into the gastrointestinal tract. As there are no specific serological or radiological tests available, the gold standard for diagnosing intestinal lymphangiectasia is endoscopic examination with histopathological examination of intestinal biopsy specimens. We present a rare case of primary intestinal lymphangiectasia in a 62-year-old Chinese woman who presented with a six-month history of lethargy, persistent diarrhea, and progressive weight loss. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy were performed, and biopsies revealed dilated intestinal lymphatics with broadened villi in the small intestine. Secondary causes of intestinal lymphangiectasia were ruled out, confirming the diagnosis of PIL. The patient was treated with a high-protein, low-fat diet supplemented with medium-chain triglycerides, resulting in significant clinical improvement.
  20. Fauzi NA, Munian K, Mahyudin NAA, Norazlimi NA
    Biodivers Data J, 2025;13:e141250.
    PMID: 39850267 DOI: 10.3897/BDJ.13.e141250
    Mangroves and mudflats are essential intertidal habitats that support benthic communities, providing critical feeding grounds for waterbirds. However, the degradation of these habitats due to coastal reclamation poses significant threats to prey availability and waterbird populations along the South est Johor Coast. While most avian research in Johor focuses on forest birds, studies on coastal waterbirds, particularly their feeding ecology, remain scarce. Understanding the feeding ecology of waterbirds is crucial for strengthening conservation efforts in vulnerable intertidal habitats. This study investigated the feeding behaviour and diet composition of waterbirds along the South West Johor Coast, Malaysia. Fieldwork was conducted in three coastal mudflats from November 2020 to May 2021, employing the direct observation technique. A total of 576 hours of observation were recorded, averaging 2 hours and 19 minutes per focal observation. Of 17 waterbird species recorded, only 11 species were included in the analysis based on sufficient data. The results revealed that waterbirds primarily consumed fish, molluscs, worms, crabs and unidentified prey, with fish comprising 25% of their overall diet. Feeding behaviour varied significantly by morphology traits, with larger waterbirds demonstrating higher feeding efficiency. Despite lower feeding rates and shorter feeding durations, larger species had a greater percentage of successful feeding attempts, indicating their superior ability to meet energy requirements. These findings provide crucial baseline data for understanding waterbird feeding ecology and highlight the importance of conserving the intertidal habitats. This research contributes to the development of targeted conservation strategies for waterbirds in the Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) of the South West Johor Coast, Malaysia, an area increasingly at risk from habitat degradation.
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