Browse publications by year: 2025

  1. Yu L, Sha H, Ji P, See KF
    J Environ Manage, 2025 Apr;379:124783.
    PMID: 40049012 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.124783
    Unlike command-based, market-based, and voluntary-based environmental regulations, credit-based environmental regulation leverages social credit to foster sustainable development. Drawing on panel data from Chinese A-share listed companies spanning 2010 to 2022, this study employs a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) approach to examine how credit-based environmental regulation influences enterprise total factor productivity (TFP), leveraging the implementation of China's Environmental Credit Evaluation Policy (ECEP) as a quasi-natural experiment. The findings indicate that the ECEP significantly enhances enterprise TFP. Mechanism analysis reveals that the ECEP enhances enterprise TFP by optimizing capital allocation efficiency and stimulating green technology innovation. Cross-sectional analysis demonstrates that the ECEP's TFP enhancement effect is more pronounced in regions with rigorous environmental enforcement and superior green credit, in industries with intense market competition, and among firms with weak internal controls. Overall, this study underscores the significance of credit-based environmental regulation in advancing green development.
    MeSH terms: China; Conservation of Natural Resources; Environmental Policy*
  2. GBD 2021 Adolescent BMI Collaborators
    Lancet, 2025 Mar 08;405(10481):785-812.
    PMID: 40049185 DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00397-6
    BACKGROUND: Despite the well documented consequences of obesity during childhood and adolescence and future risks of excess body mass on non-communicable diseases in adulthood, coordinated global action on excess body mass in early life is still insufficient. Inconsistent measurement and reporting are a barrier to specific targets, resource allocation, and interventions. In this Article we report current estimates of overweight and obesity across childhood and adolescence, progress over time, and forecasts to inform specific actions.

    METHODS: Using established methodology from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2021, we modelled overweight and obesity across childhood and adolescence from 1990 to 2021, and then forecasted to 2050. Primary data for our models included 1321 unique measured and self-reported anthropometric data sources from 180 countries and territories from survey microdata, reports, and published literature. These data were used to estimate age-standardised global, regional, and national overweight prevalence and obesity prevalence (separately) for children and young adolescents (aged 5-14 years, typically in school and cared for by child health services) and older adolescents (aged 15-24 years, increasingly out of school and cared for by adult services) by sex for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021. Prevalence estimates from 1990 to 2021 were generated using spatiotemporal Gaussian process regression models, which leveraged temporal and spatial correlation in epidemiological trends to ensure comparability of results across time and geography. Prevalence forecasts from 2022 to 2050 were generated using a generalised ensemble modelling approach assuming continuation of current trends. For every age-sex-location population across time (1990-2050), we estimated obesity (vs overweight) predominance using the log ratio of obesity percentage to overweight percentage.

    FINDINGS: Between 1990 and 2021, the combined prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents doubled, and that of obesity alone tripled. By 2021, 93·1 million (95% uncertainty interval 89·6-96·6) individuals aged 5-14 years and 80·6 million (78·2-83·3) aged 15-24 years had obesity. At the super-region level in 2021, the prevalence of overweight and of obesity was highest in north Africa and the Middle East (eg, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait), and the greatest increase from 1990 to 2021 was seen in southeast Asia, east Asia, and Oceania (eg, Taiwan [province of China], Maldives, and China). By 2021, for females in both age groups, many countries in Australasia (eg, Australia) and in high-income North America (eg, Canada) had already transitioned to obesity predominance, as had males and females in a number of countries in north Africa and the Middle East (eg, United Arab Emirates and Qatar) and Oceania (eg, Cook Islands and American Samoa). From 2022 to 2050, global increases in overweight (not obesity) prevalence are forecasted to stabilise, yet the increase in the absolute proportion of the global population with obesity is forecasted to be greater than between 1990 and 2021, with substantial increases forecast between 2022 and 2030, which continue between 2031 and 2050. By 2050, super-region obesity prevalence is forecasted to remain highest in north Africa and the Middle East (eg, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait), and forecasted increases in obesity are still expected to be largest across southeast Asia, east Asia, and Oceania (eg, Timor-Leste and North Korea), but also in south Asia (eg, Nepal and Bangladesh). Compared with those aged 15-24 years, in most super-regions (except Latin America and the Caribbean and the high-income super-region) a greater proportion of those aged 5-14 years are forecasted to have obesity than overweight by 2050. Globally, 15·6% (12·7-17·2) of those aged 5-14 years are forecasted to have obesity by 2050 (186 million [141-221]), compared with 14·2% (11·4-15·7) of those aged 15-24 years (175 million [136-203]). We forecasted that by 2050, there will be more young males (aged 5-14 years) living with obesity (16·5% [13·3-18·3]) than overweight (12·9% [12·2-13·6]); while for females (aged 5-24 years) and older males (aged 15-24 years), overweight will remain more prevalent than obesity. At a regional level, the following populations are forecast to have transitioned to obesity (vs overweight) predominance before 2041-50: children and adolescents (males and females aged 5-24 years) in north Africa and the Middle East and Tropical Latin America; males aged 5-14 years in east Asia, central and southern sub-Saharan Africa, and central Latin America; females aged 5-14 years in Australasia; females aged 15-24 years in Australasia, high-income North America, and southern sub-Saharan Africa; and males aged 15-24 years in high-income North America.

    INTERPRETATION: Both overweight and obesity increased substantially in every world region between 1990 and 2021, suggesting that current approaches to curbing increases in overweight and obesity have failed a generation of children and adolescents. Beyond 2021, overweight during childhood and adolescence is forecast to stabilise due to further increases in the population who have obesity. Increases in obesity are expected to continue for all populations in all world regions. Because substantial change is forecasted to occur between 2022 and 2030, immediate actions are needed to address this public health crisis.

    FUNDING: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.

    MeSH terms: Adolescent; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Forecasting*; Humans; Male; Risk Factors; Body Mass Index; Prevalence; Young Adult
  3. GBD 2021 Adult BMI Collaborators
    Lancet, 2025 Mar 08;405(10481):813-838.
    PMID: 40049186 DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00355-1
    BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity is a global epidemic. Forecasting future trajectories of the epidemic is crucial for providing an evidence base for policy change. In this study, we examine the historical trends of the global, regional, and national prevalence of adult overweight and obesity from 1990 to 2021 and forecast the future trajectories to 2050.

    METHODS: Leveraging established methodology from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study, we estimated the prevalence of overweight and obesity among individuals aged 25 years and older by age and sex for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2050. Retrospective and current prevalence trends were derived based on both self-reported and measured anthropometric data extracted from 1350 unique sources, which include survey microdata and reports, as well as published literature. Specific adjustment was applied to correct for self-report bias. Spatiotemporal Gaussian process regression models were used to synthesise data, leveraging both spatial and temporal correlation in epidemiological trends, to optimise the comparability of results across time and geographies. To generate forecast estimates, we used forecasts of the Socio-demographic Index and temporal correlation patterns presented as annualised rate of change to inform future trajectories. We considered a reference scenario assuming the continuation of historical trends.

    FINDINGS: Rates of overweight and obesity increased at the global and regional levels, and in all nations, between 1990 and 2021. In 2021, an estimated 1·00 billion (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 0·989-1·01) adult males and 1·11 billion (1·10-1·12) adult females had overweight and obesity. China had the largest population of adults with overweight and obesity (402 million [397-407] individuals), followed by India (180 million [167-194]) and the USA (172 million [169-174]). The highest age-standardised prevalence of overweight and obesity was observed in countries in Oceania and north Africa and the Middle East, with many of these countries reporting prevalence of more than 80% in adults. Compared with 1990, the global prevalence of obesity had increased by 155·1% (149·8-160·3) in males and 104·9% (95% UI 100·9-108·8) in females. The most rapid rise in obesity prevalence was observed in the north Africa and the Middle East super-region, where age-standardised prevalence rates in males more than tripled and in females more than doubled. Assuming the continuation of historical trends, by 2050, we forecast that the total number of adults living with overweight and obesity will reach 3·80 billion (95% UI 3·39-4·04), over half of the likely global adult population at that time. While China, India, and the USA will continue to constitute a large proportion of the global population with overweight and obesity, the number in the sub-Saharan Africa super-region is forecasted to increase by 254·8% (234·4-269·5). In Nigeria specifically, the number of adults with overweight and obesity is forecasted to rise to 141 million (121-162) by 2050, making it the country with the fourth-largest population with overweight and obesity.

    INTERPRETATION: No country to date has successfully curbed the rising rates of adult overweight and obesity. Without immediate and effective intervention, overweight and obesity will continue to increase globally. Particularly in Asia and Africa, driven by growing populations, the number of individuals with overweight and obesity is forecast to rise substantially. These regions will face a considerable increase in obesity-related disease burden. Merely acknowledging obesity as a global health issue would be negligent on the part of global health and public health practitioners; more aggressive and targeted measures are required to address this crisis, as obesity is one of the foremost avertible risks to health now and in the future and poses an unparalleled threat of premature disease and death at local, national, and global levels.

    FUNDING: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

    MeSH terms: Adult; Aged; Female; Forecasting*; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Global Health*; Prevalence; Age Distribution; Sex Distribution
  4. Rosa WE, Pandey S, Wisniewski R, Blinderman C, Cheong MWL, Correa-Morales JE, et al.
    Lancet Infect Dis, 2025 Mar 03.
    PMID: 40049189 DOI: 10.1016/S1473-3099(24)00832-6
    Global rates of antimicrobial consumption increased by 65% between 2000 and 2015, by 16% between 2016 and 2023, and are estimated to increase by an additional 52% by 2030. Antimicrobial use and misuse remains high among people with serious illness and at end of life, despite scarce evidence of benefit. In addition, the overuse and misuse of antimicrobials at end of life further exacerbate antimicrobial resistance, which is a substantial public and global health concern. This Personal View synthesises global interprofessional and multidisciplinary perspectives on antimicrobial use, stewardship, and resistance at end of life and implications at patient and population levels. Guidelines have been summarised from multiple countries, some of which offer guidance for antimicrobial use at end of life. Countries at different income levels are included (ie, Chile, Colombia, Germany, India, Malaysia, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Sudan) to show how practice norms and standards vary internationally. These examples are combined with a case of non-beneficial end-of-life antimicrobial use and clinical guidance for patient and family communication regarding antimicrobial treatment. This Personal View also provides recommendations to improve antimicrobial stewardship with the goal of engaging multidisciplinary stakeholders and decreasing inappropriate antimicrobial use at end of life.
  5. Loh HH, Sukor N
    Horm Metab Res, 2025 Mar;57(3):149-155.
    PMID: 40049223 DOI: 10.1055/a-2530-1792
    Heightened aldosterone levels are associated with increased risk of renal sequelae, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Historically, primary aldosteronism is linked to hypertension. However, growing evidence reveals its presence even in normotensive individuals. This review consolidates data from diverse sources, delves into clinical studies of this underexplored condition, discusses the potential mechanisms, and provides a comprehensive and an up-to-date overview of the current state of knowledge. It highlights the evidence and understanding of normotensive primary aldosteronism, summarizes findings, and identifies opportunities for future research in this area. By addressing the clinical evidence, risk of hypertension development and possible mechanisms involved, this review aims to advance the understanding of this distinct form of primary aldosteronism and inspire further research in this emerging field.
    MeSH terms: Aldosterone/blood; Aldosterone/metabolism; Blood Pressure; Humans
  6. Rai RP, Syed A, Elgorban AM, Abid I, Wong LS, Khan MS, et al.
    Microb Pathog, 2025 May;202:107442.
    PMID: 40049249 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107442
    BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori infection and the resulting inflammation of the stomach are widely recognized as the primary risk factors for the development of gastric cancer (human health). Despite numerous attempts, the correlation between various virulence factors of H. pylori and stomach cancer remains mainly unexplained. The cag pathogenicity island (cagPAI) is a widely recognized indicator of virulence in H. pylori. MicroRNAs play crucial roles in a wide range of biological and pathological processes and dysregulated expressions of miRNAs have been detected in numerous cancer types. However, research on the correlation between H. pylori infection and its cagPAI, as well as the differential expression of microRNAs in gastric cancer, is lacking.

    AIM: The aim of this study was to examine the differential expression of miRNAs in 80 patients with gastric cancer, specifically in connection to the presence of H. pylori and its cag pathogenicity island (cagPAI).

    METHODS: Biopsies of 80 gastric cancer patients were collected and used for H. pylori DNA isolation and tissue miRNA isolation, and further analyzed for cagPAI and miRNA expression and their association.

    RESULTS: Elevated levels of miR-21, miR-155, and miR-223 were detected in malignant tissues. The expression of miR-21 and miR-223 was considerably elevated in biopsies that tested positive for H. pylori, whereas the expression of miR-34a was reduced. H. pylori cagPAI samples that are functionally intact exhibit greater expression of miR-21 and miR-223 compared to cagPAI samples that are partially deleted, in both normal and malignant tissues.

    CONCLUSION: Thus, the novelty of our study lies in its focus on the differential expression of specific miRNAs in relation to the functional integrity of the cagPAI in H. pylori-infected gastric cancer patients, offering a more detailed understanding of the interplay between H. pylori virulence factors and miRNA regulation than previous studies.

    MeSH terms: Adult; Aged; Antigens, Bacterial; Bacterial Proteins/genetics; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism; Biopsy; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Virulence/genetics; Virulence Factors/genetics
  7. Parmal S, Subbappa P, Nikam V, Tarwate Y, Barhate K, Wagh S, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2025 Mar 04.
    PMID: 40049471 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.141625
    Wound healing is a natural, however complex, tissue repair and regeneration mechanism. Understanding the cascade of biological events associated with wound healing facilitates scientists in designing topical skin formulations with enhanced therapeutic outcomes. In recent years, several innovative approaches have been utilized to treat wounds. Hyaluronic acid (HA)-based formulations have shown promising results. The current manuscript provides a systematic review of various aspects of HA, including its structure, synthesis, mechanism involved in wound healing, and various formulations developed using HA to treat wounds. Covered are innovative treatment strategies explicitly emphasizing nanocarrier-based approaches. Various patents wherein HA has been used to treat wounds are also summarized with the help of a Google patent search. Diving deep, clinical perspectives, toxicity aspects, and application of computational chemistry in HA research are also discussed.
  8. Di Martino A, Ozaltin K, Hua LS, Prianto AH, Syahidah, Rochima E, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2025 Mar 04.
    PMID: 40049478 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.141744
    Agriculture is an important sector for maintaining environmental sustainability and ensuring global food security. However, the sector faces significant challenges caused by soil degradation, water scarcity, and resource limitations. To overcome the challenges, several studies have shown that innovative materials, including hydrogels, have the ability to improve agricultural practices. Lignin, the sole polyaromatic biopolymer, and the second most abundant biopolymer, has been extensively explored for a wide range of applications. For example, lignin valorization represents a significant issue for lignocellulosic biorefineries as well as the pulp and paper industry. This has led to an increase in interest over the past decade in its utilization to create innovative, advanced smart materials. Therefore, this study aims to discuss the applications, advantages, and possibilities of lignin-based hydrogels in addressing the primary difficulties of contemporary agriculture to increase sustainability. The initial section of the study discussed the introduction of lignin and its isolation methods, followed by an in-depth examination of polymeric hydrogels, encompassing their composition and applications in agriculture. The third section focused on lignin-based hydrogels, detailing preparation procedures for their primary application in agriculture. This study also analyzed the progress in lignin-based hydrogels over the past decade and provided a relevant assessment of the promising material.
  9. Sohni S, Abdullah, Bakhsh EM, Mazhar F, Ahmad W, Lamaming J, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2025 Mar 04.
    PMID: 40049499 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.141749
    The present study suggests a scalable approach to fabricate a composite hydrogel based on cerium dioxide (CeO2) nanoparticles anchored onto microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) in a three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hydrogel with bifunctional performances in water reclamation. Herein, CeO2 nanoparticles were biosynthesized using Banana pseudo-stem extract as a stabilizer and reducing agent. Afterwards, a series of hierarchical scaffolds of 3D hydrogels were fabricated employing different contents of CeO2, MCC and rGO via. self-assembly process. Analytical techniques provided useful insights regarding chemical structure and morphology of the fabricated hydrogel. Results showed that the proportion of CeO2, MCC and rGO controlled performance characteristics of the resulting composite hydrogels. Under optimal condition, 95 % of the catalytic reduction of methylene blue dye solution (50 ppm) was achieved rapidly in the presence of catalyst (20 mg) using NaBH4 solution (0.25 M) at ambient temperature. Recyclability tests demonstrated long term stability of composite hydrogel all through four successive cycles without any significant loss of its effectiveness. Moreover, as-prepared hydrogels demonstrated appreciable antibacterial potential against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is evident that using MCC and rGO as supporting substrates with CeO2 NPs accorded more functions to the resulting composite hydrogel due to synergistic effects that resulted in a high performance, easily retrieving and steady material for wastewater purification.
  10. Lo TS, Alzabedi A, Rom E, Jhang LS, Hsieh WC, Harun F
    Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol, 2025 Mar;64(2):279-286.
    PMID: 40049812 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2024.10.016
    OBJECTIVE: To determine the objective and subjective outcomes of a Combined anterior trans-obturator mesh (Surelift-A) and sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSF) for advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP), along with the evaluation of surgical complications, postoperative impact on quality of life (QoL), and lower urinary tract symptoms.

    METHODS: Retrospective cohort study in a tertiary center from May 2021-December 2022 included 150 patients with symptomatic anterior or apical POP stage III and IV, who underwent pelvic reconstructive surgery with Surelift-A mesh combined with SSF. All completed a 72-h voiding diary, urodynamic study (UDS), and multiple validated QoL questionnaires at baseline, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Primary outcomes were the development of post operative de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI), objectively via cough stress test and UDS, and subjectively by evaluation of UDI-6, question 3 score >1 and IIQ-7, QoL and surgical complications. Secondary outcomes were the objective cure of POP, defined as anterior and apical prolapse Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System ≤ stage I, and subjective cure based on negative answers to Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory 6, quality of life, sexual function, major and minor complications.

    RESULT: At one-year follow-up, the objective cure rate was 96.7 %, whereas the subjective cure rate was 93.3 %, with favorable anatomical outcomes. Significant QoL improvements were observed. Among those without mid-urethral sling (MUS), a (60.0 %) improvement in SUI occurred. De novo SUI emerged in 10.5 % objectively and 12 % subjectively. Mesh exposure rate was 1.3 %.

    CONCLUSION: The Combined Surelift-A and SSF approach shows effective cure rates with minimal complications, and a slight risk of de novo SUI.

    MeSH terms: Aged; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Postoperative Complications/etiology; Quality of Life*; Surveys and Questionnaires; Retrospective Studies; Surgical Mesh*; Treatment Outcome; Suburethral Slings/adverse effects; Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/etiology; Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/surgery
  11. Yu Q, Hu X, Qian Y, Wang Y, Shi C, Qi R, et al.
    J Environ Sci (China), 2025 Aug;154:550-562.
    PMID: 40049896 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2024.08.026
    The degradation of animal carcasses can lead to rapid waste release (e.g., pathogenic bacteria, viruses, prions, or parasites) and also result in nutrient accumulation in the surrounding environment. However, how viral profile responds and influences nutrient pool (carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S)) in polluted water caused by animal carcass decomposition had not been explored. Here, we combined metagenomic analysis, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and water physicochemical assessment to explore the response of viral communities under different temperatures (23 °C, 26 °C, 29 °C, 32 °C, and 35 °C) in water polluted by cadaver, as well as compare the contribution of viral/bacterial communities on water nutrient pool. We found that a total of 15,240 viral species were classified and mainly consisted of Siphoviridae. Both temperature and carrion reduced the viral diversity and abundance. Only a small portion of the viruses (∼8.8 %) had significant negative correlations with temperature, while most were not sensitive. Our results revealed that the viruses had lager contribution on nutrient pool than bacteria. Besides, viral-related functional genes involved in C, N, P and S cycling. These functional genes declined during carcass decomposition and covered part of the central nutrient cycle metabolism (including carbon sugar transformation, denitrification, P mineralization and extracelluar sulfate transfer, etc.). Our result implies that human regulation of virus communities may be more important than bacterial communities in regulating and managing polluted water quality and nutrition.
    MeSH terms: Carbon/metabolism; Nitrogen/analysis; Phosphorus/analysis; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics; Viruses*; Water Microbiology; Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis
  12. Mamat R, Ibrahim B, Rashid RA, Sim Maw Shin G, Wahab S, Ahmad A, et al.
    J Addict Dis, 2025 Mar 06.
    PMID: 40050248 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2025.2473188
    Amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), such as methamphetamine, amphetamine, and MDMA, are highly risky substances linked to neurochemical disruptions, metabolic disturbances, and systemic toxicity. Despite substantial research on their neurotoxic effects, the metabolic pathways involved in ATS dependence remain poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the metabolic signatures associated with ATS dependence using NMR-based metabolomics to identify systemic metabolic disruptions related to chronic ATS use. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 583 participants, comprising ATS-dependent individuals from Malaysian drug detention centers and healthy controls. Plasma samples were analyzed using 1H-NMR, CPMG, and HSQC spectroscopy to obtain comprehensive metabolomic profiles. Multivariate analyses, including PCA-X, OPLS-DA, and logistic regression, were employed to identify metabolites that differentiated ATS patients from controls. Metabolites were cross-referenced with BMRB and HMDB databases for validation. ATS-dependent individuals showed significant alterations in metabolic pathways, with reductions in cholic acid, L-valine, L-alanine, lactic acid, creatinine, histidine, taurine, and homovanillic acid (all p 
  13. Wong LP, Lee HY, Alias H, Seheli FN, Lachyan A, Nguyen DK, et al.
    Hum Vaccin Immunother, 2025 Dec;21(1):2471702.
    PMID: 40050267 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2025.2471702
    This study aims to explore the willingness of individuals to be vaccinated against NTDs in Asian countries and China. Between June and December 2023, an anonymous cross-sectional survey was carried out in five Asian countries alongside China. Overall, 48.4% indicated being somewhat willing and 29.2% expressing extreme willingness to receive NTDs vaccination. High attitude scores (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 11.35-1.75) was associated with higher willingness to be vaccinated against NTDs. The odds of accepting the NTDs vaccine increased among individuals without occupational exposure to NTDs (aOR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.27-1.68). Those residing in very clean environments exhibited heightened odds of willingness (aOR = 2.94, 95% CI: 2.10-4.11), whereas individuals in somewhat dirty environments demonstrated reduced odds of willingness (aOR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.56-0.98) compared to the baseline group (very dirty local environment). Moreover, a higher score in sanitation facilities also correlated with increased odds of willingness to receive the NTDs vaccine (aOR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.21-1.64). The study highlighted key strategies for improving NTDs vaccine uptake in Asian countries, including China, such as fostering positive attitudes toward the vaccine and enhancing perception of infection risks.
    MeSH terms: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Asia; China; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Male; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vaccines/administration & dosage; Young Adult
  14. Chen Y, Li D, He D, Liu Y, Taib N, Heng Yii Sern C
    Sci Rep, 2025 Mar 06;15(1):7890.
    PMID: 40050388 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-92600-w
    Despite significant advancements in building technologies, a critical gap exists in understanding how Solar Heat Gain and the Cooling Effect of Ventilation (CEV) interact in high-rise residential buildings. These two factors, which are crucial for achieving thermal comfort, operate in opposing directions: Solar Heat Gain leads to heat retention and an increase in indoor temperature, while CEV promotes cooling and reduces indoor temperature. This contradiction creates a complex thermal dynamic that is not well-understood, particularly in the context of high-rise bedrooms with varying window configurations. This study addresses this gap by investigating the seasonal interplay between Window Opening Area (WOA), Solar Heat Gain, and CEV, explicitly focusing on their seasonal variability and the impact of different glazing configurations (double- and triple-glazed windows). This research is conducted in Dongguan, China, and employs field measurements from seven high-rise bedrooms in winter and summer. The study uses advanced instruments such as pyranometers and anemometers to capture precise data on solar radiation, indoor temperature, and airflow, enabling a detailed analysis of the thermal effects of WOA and glazing configurations. The results reveal distinct seasonal behaviours of Solar Heat Gain and CEV. Solar Heat Gain dominates in winter, with heat retention critical for indoor comfort. Smaller WOAs enhance net heat gain, especially in triple-glazed configurations, where Solar Heat Gain values for a 0.32 m2 WOA reached 281-387 W, yielding a positive Net Thermal Effect of up to + 204 W. Conversely, larger WOAs during winter facilitated minimal cooling through ventilation, reducing Net thermal effect and compromising warmth. In summer, the emphasis shifts to ventilation cooling, with CEV becoming the primary driver of thermal comfort. For a fully open WOA (1.3 m2), double-glazed rooms demonstrated significant cooling, with CEV values reaching 1327 W, resulting in negative Net thermal effect values of - 41 to - 60 W. Triple glazing, while reducing Solar Heat Gain to 1001 W offered less effective natural cooling, with CEV peaking at 1179 W. Regression analysis underscores the strong positive correlation between WOA, Solar Heat Gain, and CEV, with double-glazed systems exhibiting higher sensitivity to WOA changes. The Net thermal effect analysis highlights the necessity of adjusting WOAs seasonally-smaller openings in winter maximise heat retention, while larger openings in summer optimise ventilation cooling. This study bridges critical knowledge gaps in thermal comfort optimisation for high-rise residential buildings, emphasising the dynamic balance required between glazing types and seasonal WOA adjustments. The findings provide actionable insights for architects and engineers, supporting adaptive design strategies that balance solar heat gain and ventilation cooling, aligning with sustainability goals and energy-efficient urban living.
  15. Haridevamuthu B, Sudhakaran G, Rajagopal R, Alfarhan A, Arshad A, Arockiaraj J
    Acta Parasitol, 2025 Mar 06;70(2):67.
    PMID: 40050501 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01007-0
    BACKGROUND: Ecytonucleospora hepatopenaei (EHP) is a major parasitic pathogen in shrimp causing hepatopancreatic microsporidiosis, which leads to significant growth retardation and global economic losses. This pathogen employs various immune evasion strategies that complicate treatment and management.

    PURPOSE: This review examines the complex host-parasite interactions, focusing on the immune evasion mechanisms used by EHP. The study explores how EHP manipulates host immune pathways, including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, Toll, and IMD, to suppress immune responses, inhibit antimicrobial peptide production, and avoid detection, thus ensuring its persistence in the host.

    METHODS: The authors reviewed recent research from databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, including studies up to 2024. The keywords Ecytonucleospora hepatopenaei, immune evasion, EHP treatment, and associated words with topics were used in this search.

    RESULTS: EHP induces oxidative stress, which weakens the host immune system while simultaneously upregulating antioxidant responses to favor its survival. The parasite also alters the gut microbiota and disrupts key cellular processes, such as cell cycle regulation, further enhancing its ability to sustain infection.

    CONCLUSION: This review highlights the need for integrated management strategies, including disease-resistant breeding, microbiota modulation, and advanced diagnostics, to combat EHP. By providing an overview of EHP's immune evasion tactics, this study aims to advance knowledge in the field and support efforts to improve shrimp health and aquaculture sustainability.

    MeSH terms: Animals; Host-Parasite Interactions*; Microsporidiosis; Enterocytozoon/genetics; Enterocytozoon/physiology; Immune Evasion
  16. Fekih-Romdhane F, Sarra Chaibi L, Alhuwailah A, Sakr F, Helmy M, Ahmed H, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2025 Mar 06;15(1):7836.
    PMID: 40050632 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-90597-w
    Understanding of the mechanisms involved in the occurrence of psychotic experiences (PEs) in highly autistic individuals is crucial for identifying appropriate prevention and intervention strategies. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of susceptibility to social pain and loneliness in the relationship between autistic traits (ATs) and PEs in adults from the general population of 12 Arab countries. This cross-sectional study is part of a large-scale multi-country research project. A total of 7646 young adults (age range 18-35 years, mean age of 22.55 ± 4.00 years and 75.5% females) from twelve Arab countries (i.e., Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, and Tunisia) were included. Mediation analyses showed that, after adjusting over confounding variables, both loneliness (indirect effect: Beta = 0.18; Boot SE = 0.02; Boot CI 0.14; 0.21) and social pain (indirect effect: Beta = 0.03; Boot SE = 0.01; Boot CI 0.001; 0.05) partially mediated the association between ATs and PEs. Higher ATs were significantly associated with more loneliness and susceptibility to social pain, and directly associated with more severe PEs. Finally, higher loneliness and susceptibility to social pain were significantly associated with greater PEs scores. Findings indicated that individuals with higher ATs tend to experience greater loneliness and feel more pain from rejection, which can in turn be associated with higher levels of PEs. Interventions targeting susceptibility to social pain and loneliness as a means of mitigating PEs among highly autistic adults should be considered.
    MeSH terms: Adolescent; Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Disease Susceptibility; Female; Humans; Male; Middle East/epidemiology; Psychotic Disorders/epidemiology; Psychotic Disorders/psychology; Young Adult
  17. Ong SC, Tay LX, Ong HM, Tiong IK, Ch'ng ASH, Parumasivam T
    BMC Geriatr, 2025 Mar 06;25(1):154.
    PMID: 40050715 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-025-05717-y
    BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is expected to have a significant impact on resource use and economic consequences along with population aging. This study aims to investigate the annual economic burden of Alzheimer's disease along with underlying cost drivers.

    METHODOLOGY: Patients with AD aged 65 and above accompanied with primary caregivers were recruited in 6 tertiary care hospitals. A structured interview was conducted to collect sociodemographic, clinical and resource use information using an adapted questionnaire. Direct medical cost, direct non-medical cost and indirect cost were annualised and categorised by severity level. Generalised linear models were applied to investigate predictors of costs.

    RESULTS: Among 135 patient-caregiver dyads, the annual economic burden of AD from a societal perspective was USD 8618.83 ± USD 6740.79 per capita. The societal cost of severe AD patients (USD11943.19 ± USD6954.17) almost doubled those in mild AD (USD6281.10 ± USD6879.83). IDC was the primary cost driver (77.7%) which represented the impact of productivity loss due to informal care. Besides disease severity, time spent in informal care, caregivers' employment and use of special accommodation were predictors of AD cost. This neurodegenerative disorder is estimated to impose a burden of USD1.9 billion in 2022, which represents 0.47% of Malaysia's GDP.

    CONCLUSION: This study provided real-world empirical cost estimates of AD burden in Malaysia. Informal care is a significant contributor to the societal cost of AD. Optimal healthcare resource allocation is essential in the decision making of healthcare stakeholders to address rising demands.

    MeSH terms: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Female; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Male; Health Care Costs; Cost of Illness*
  18. Mir IA, Mohd Jamali MNZ, Humayra S, Chong KW, Amalnerkar T, Sirajudeen MS
    BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil, 2025 Mar 06;17(1):41.
    PMID: 40051008 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-025-01060-2
    BACKGROUND: The benefits of strength training on shooting accuracy in football players and other athletes are well known, but its effectiveness in improving shooting accuracy among basketball players remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of partial range of motion (PROM) and full range of motion (FROM) triceps strength training on stationary three-point shooting test (S3P) among recreational basketball players.

    METHODS: This was a single-blinded randomized controlled trial. 30 participants were randomly assigned into 3 equal groups; FROM, PROM, and control (CON). Triceps strength training was carried out using an adjustable overhead cable crossover machine. With shoulders over-head flexed to 160-180° for both experimental groups, the FROM group performed strength training from full elbow flexion to full extension. In contrast, the PROM group worked at a restricted range, between 60°-110° elbow flexion/extension. Both groups engaged in 4 sets of 10 repetitions, 2 sessions/week for 4-weeks at 67% of 1 repetition maximum, while the CON group did not participate in any exercise program. S3P was assessed at baseline and at the end of 4-weeks intervention.

    RESULTS: Participants mean age (20.20 ± 1.54 years), height (1.74 ± 0.61 m), and body mass index (22.55 ± 3.31) were descriptively analysed. Within group analysis showed a significant improvement of S3P in both FROM (p = 0.0345, 95% CI = -1.50 to -0.07, ES = 0.81) and PROM (p = 0.005, 95% CI = -2.44 to -0.97, ES = 2.40) compared to CON group (p = 0.8995, 95% CI = -0.61 to 0.68, ES = 0.05). Group-by-time interaction demonstrated PROM to be more promising (p = 0.0102, 95% CI = -1.70 to 0.21) than the FROM and CON groups.

    CONCLUSIONS: PROM triceps strength training improves shooting accuracy and is a time-efficient technique highly recommended for basketball players.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04128826, registered on 14/10/2019 - retrospectively, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04128826 .

  19. Sharma R, Basu S, Tyagi R, Siniah S, Barman P, Sil A, et al.
    Asia Pac Allergy, 2025 Mar;15(1):1-6.
    PMID: 40051425 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.0000000000000172
    BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is characterized by unpredictable acute attacks that impair the patient's quality of life (QoL) not only due to the impact on functional abilities caused by edema but also due to pain and other symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.

    OBJECTIVES: QoL studies in patients with HAE have not been carried out in the Indian subcontinent. Hence, we carried out this study to assess the QoL and to identify factors associated with impaired QoL in patients with HAE.

    METHODS: This was a cross-sectional observational study carried out in confirmed cases of HAE, aged >18 years, using angioedema QoL score and angioedema control test.

    RESULTS: We enrolled 135 patients with HAE (aged 18-80 years) with a mean age of 40.93 years. We observed that the QoL directly correlates with angioedema control and is also affected by other factors such as gender, duration of follow-up, and the frequency of episodes. Genitalia swelling, positive family history, and presence of mortality due to HAE in the family also significantly impact the QoL of patients with HAE. In addition, patients with type 1 HAE reported a poorer QoL as compared to patients with type 2 HAE.

    CONCLUSION: We report the QoL of patients with HAE from settings where none of the first-line medications are available. Results of the study suggest that disease control is the most important factor that influences the QoL.

  20. Ravindiran G, Karthick K, Rajamanickam S, Datta D, Das B, Shyamala G, et al.
    iScience, 2025 Feb 21;28(2):111894.
    PMID: 40051831 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.111894
    Hyderabad, one of the rapidly developing cities in India, is facing with severe air pollution due to rapid urbanization, industrial operations, and climatic factors. To alleviate the negative impact on human health and the environment, accurate monitoring and forecasting of air quality are essential. This research utilized various machine learning models, such as XGBoost, LarsCV, Bayesian Ridge, AdaBoost, and ensemble stacking methods, to forecast the air quality index (AQI) using data from August 2016 to October 2023, which included 18 different air pollutants, including meteorological parameters. The ensemble stacking method showed excellent performance, attaining high training (R2 = 0.994) and validation (R2 = 0.999) accuracy with low error metrics (mean absolute error [MAE] = 0.496, mean square error [MSE] = 0.429, root-mean-square error [RMSE] = 0.655). These results highlight the efficacy of ensemble stacking for AQI prediction, providing crucial information for policymakers to formulate strategies to reduce air pollution's effects on public health and environmental sustainability.
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