Browse Articles

Statin therapy and mortality in critically ill heart failure patients: Insights from a triangulated real-world design study

This study is aimed to evaluate the association between statin therapy and intermediate-term survival in critically ill patients with heart failure (HF). Using a real-world retrospective cohort from the MIMIC-IV database, we assessed all-cause mortality at 90 and 180 days following ICU admission. To reduce confounding factors, we applied a triangulated analytic framework incorporating propensity score matching, inverse probability of treatment weighting and standardized mortality ratio weighting. Survival outcomes were additionally examined across different statin types, including atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin and pitavastatin, using stratified Kaplan–Meier analysis. Among over 8,000 eligible patients, statin use during hospitalization was consistently associated with reduced mortality at both time points across all models. Stratified survival curves showed comparable trends among the different statin types. These findings suggest a potential class-wide survival benefit of statin therapy in the ICU setting for HF patients and highlight the need for further studies to determine whether specific statin selection offers additional clinical advantages.

Combined stomach content and stable isotope analyses revealed variations in trophic ecology of pacific cod in the east sea

Abstract This study investigated changes in the dietary composition and trophic levels of Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) using stomach content and stable isotope analyses. Pacific cod samples were collected seasonally from May 2018 to February 2022 using bottom gill nets at the northern (Ayajin) and southern (Hupo) sites of the East Sea along the Korean coast. The primary dietary components included teleosts, amphipods, carid shrimps, and cephalopods. Gravimetric dietary analysis revealed distinct latitudinal, seasonal, and size-related variations, with teleosts, cephalopods, carid shrimps, and euphausiids serving as the key prey items. During the cold season, teleosts constituted the major dietary components of the large-sized Pacific cod, whereas smaller individuals consumed more carid shrimps, amphipods, and euphausiids. In the warm season, large-sized individuals predominantly consumed cephalopods irrespective of location, whereas smaller individuals favored amphipods and euphausiids at Ayajin and carid shrimps at Hupo. Differences in stable isotope values (δ13C and δ15N) between Ayajin and Hupo, between size classes, indicated higher values in the Hupo and in large-sized individuals. Increased consumption of teleosts and cephalopods by larger Pacific cod led to enriched isotope values, whereas the contribution of carid shrimps elevated the trophic level at Hupo. This study provides comprehensive insights into the dietary variations and trophic levels of Pacific cod in response to changes in prey availability.

Genome sequencing and analysis of isolates of Cytospora sorbicola and Cytospora plurivora associated with almond and peach canker

Cytospora sorbicola and C. plurivora are significant canker pathogens that affect stone fruits and several other woody plants, severely limiting orchard productivity and longevity. These pathogens are challenging to control, and once established, there is no cure. Therefore, breeding for resistance is the most promising strategy to mitigate their impact. The first step in this process is understanding the interactions between the plants and the pathogens. To facilitate this understanding, we present genome sequencing and analysis of two isolates of C. sorbicola and two isolates of C. plurivora . The genomes of the C. plurivora isolates were assembled to a mean size of 38.4 ± 0.275 Mbp, with a mean guanine-cytosine (GC) content of 51.02 ± 0.25%. In contrast, the genomes of C. sorbicola were assembled to a mean size of 40.48 ± 0.11 Mbp, with a GC content of 50.28 ± 0.1%. The predicted number of protein coding genes for C. plurivora and C. sorbicola isolates was 9,878 ± 17.5 and 10,161 ± 34.5, respectively. Our genome mining efforts focused on identifying putative virulence determinants. We describe the distribution of identified secreted carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), transporters, cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, proteases, and genes encoding proteins involved in secondary metabolite synthesis. Additionally, we predicted potential effector proteins associated with these isolates. Gene Ontology analysis revealed a higher prevalence of transporter and peptidase activities, indicating an evolutionary adaptation to low pH and nutrient-limited environments. Although the primary aim of this study was to present the genome sequences, a phylogenomic analysis based on conserved single-copy gene sequences strongly suggests that C. paraplurivora is a species of C. plurivora . Therefore, we recommend amending the classification of C. paraplurivora sp. nov. (Ilyukhin et al. 2023) to C. plurivora . Most importantly, we present high-quality genome assemblies for C. sorbicola and C. plurivora isolates, which are critical resources for future studies on plant-pathogen interactions.

Hierarchical sparse Bayesian learning with adaptive Laplacian prior for single image super-resolution

Correction: Colorectal cancers with a residual adenoma component: Clinicopathologic features and KRAS mutation

Effects of age and cognitive features on comprehension of healthcare symbols in hospitals in Guangzhou

Microplastic exposure and allergic rhinitis: Network toxicology, and molecular docking insights

Background Microplastics (MPs), ubiquitous environmental pollutants, are increasingly associated with global health risks, yet their role in allergic rhinitis (AR) pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Methods Toxicity profiles of four typical MPs (polyethylene [PE], polypropylene [PP], polyvinyl chloride [PVC], polystyrene [PS]) were evaluated using ADMETlab 3.0. MP-related targets and AR-associated genes were integrated from the CTD database and GSE43523 dataset. Functional enrichment (GO/KEGG) and PPI network analysis (STRING/GeneMANIA) were performed on overlapping genes. LASSO regression and expression validation identified key targets, and molecular docking (Autodock Vina) assessed interactions with potential therapeutics predicted by CTD. Results ADMET analysis revealed MPs exhibit significant respiratory toxicity and ocular toxicity. We identified 301 MP toxicity targets, 1,026 AR differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and 15 overlapping pathogenic targets. Functional enrichment (GO/KEGG) demonstrated MPs disrupt respiratory mucosal homeostasis via apoptosis, mitochondrial autophagy, and inflammatory pathways. PPI network analysis and LASSO regression pinpointed DNAJB9, SQSTM1, and MAPK9 as core mediators: these genes were significantly downregulated in AR patients (P < 0.05) and displayed robust diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.82–0.93). Molecular docking revealed resveratrol binds these targets with high affinity, surpassing SQSTM1 (−5.8 kcal/mol) and MAPK9 (−6.8 kcal/mol), suggesting its potential to block MP-induced dysregulation. Conclusions MPs drive AR pathogenesis through respiratory toxicity pathways, with DNAJB9, SQSTM1, and MAPK9 serving as critical molecular mediators. Resveratrol, by modulating target-mediated programmed cell death, emerges as a promising therapeutic candidate for mitigating MP-induced AR.

Continuous-wave and mode-locked Bi-doped fiber laser at 1.7 μm

Abstract We investigate continuous-wave (CW) and mode-locked (ML) operation of bismuth-doped fiber (BDF) lasers at 1.7 μm. We compare the slope efficiency (SE) of the Figure-of-9 (Fo9) and linear cavity configurations for CW operation and find that the linear cavity exhibits a slightly higher SE. We demonstrate that the Fo9 configuration can also support mode-locked operation. We observe multi-pulse operation and can control the number of output pulses by adjusting the pump power.

Morphology, ultrastructure and function of the sternal gland in two mason bee species (Osmia bicornis and O. cornuta)

Pheromonal communication is often facilitated by the evolution of specialized gland structures. Males of two species of mason bees release specific carboxylic esters from a hidden sternal gland. This gland tissue consists of a single layer of class 1 secretory cells located on two sternites. The unmodified cuticle above the gland tissues is dented and covered with setae. Together with the elongated covering sternite, these depressions form a storage vessel for volatiles. This gland morphology facilitates the slow, continuous release of volatiles through leakage from the cavity, as well as the enhanced, voluntary release of higher concentrated pheromone puffs through abdominal movements. The carboxylic esters released from the gland have a deterrent effect and indicate the sex of the male from a distance. Pheromone puffs emitted by abdominal movements enable mating to occur without interference from competitors. In this context, the carboxylic esters act as antiaphrodisiacs.

Correction: Identification of marker genes associated with oxidative stress in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy using bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation

Assessment of drug-related problems among breast cancer patients in a cancer specialty center in Nepal

Introduction Breast cancer is the leading cancer among women globally, and its management typically involves surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. This combination of complex treatment increases the risk of drug-related problems (DRPs), which can negatively impact the quality of life as it prolongs the hospital stays, increases healthcare costs, and leads to morbidity and mortality. Research on DRPs in the context of breast cancer patients in Nepal is limited; therefore, this study aimed to identify DRPs, assess their prevalence, and examine their associated factors, while emphasizing the importance of pharmaceutical care. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, Nepal, from February to May 2024. The medical records of 92 patients were reviewed to identify DRPs using the Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe V9.1 tool, along with related scientific literatures and evidence-based guidelines, and verified by two independent medical oncologists. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the patient characteristics, while the chi-square test was used to evaluate the associations between socio-demographic and clinical characteristics with the presence of DRPs, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results DRPs were identified in 91 of 92 patients (98.9%), totaling 104 events. Most DRPs (87.5%) concerned treatment safety, while 12.5% involved treatment effectiveness. Patient-related factors (43.4%) and drug selection (33.3%) were primary causes. Common adverse effects included alopecia (88.0%) and anorexia (84.8%). A significant association was observed between adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and DRPs (Fisher’s exact p-value = 0.011). Conclusion DRPs were highly prevalent among breast cancer patients, mainly due to safety issues, with ADRs significantly contributing to it. Findings highlight the need for larger multicentric and cohort studies, and integration of oncology pharmacy services to optimize pharmaceutical care and minimize DRPs.

An electric spring with an extended range of operation and current filtering capability for SEIG-based isolated system

Shared bikes distribution vehicle routing problem with split delivery considering carbon emission

The distribution of shared bikes is different from that of other goods. There are some demand stations which need a large number of shared bikes, such as bus stations, subway exits and business districts. The demand of these stations cannot be met in a single delivery, so the demand can be split into batches for distribution. Therefore, shared bikes need to be delivered from distribution centers to demand stations. However, these delivery vehicles generate carbon emissions during the process, which has an impact on environment. Thus, shared bikes distribution vehicle route selection with considering carbon emission under demand splitting is an important problem. The paper established a model for distribution vehicle route selection of shared bikes considering carbon emission which aims at minimization the sum of carbon emission cost and delivery cost, under demand splitting of the stations and delivery vehicles with load limit. Then an approximation algorithm GA is designed to solve it. The time complexity of GA was proved, and the upper and lower bounds of the approximate ratio of GA are discussed. Finally, an empirical example was facilitated by examining real shared bikes stations in the Yanta district of Xi’an, China, to verify the effectiveness of the model and algorithm. The approximation ratio of GA is 3.52 which shows that the approximate performance of the algorithm in the example is good. The results and conclusions yield a theoretical basis for decision-makers to optimize the delivery of shared bikes.

A nap before retrieval reduces false identifications in target absent lineups

Abstract Eyewitness misidentifications are a major cause of wrongful convictions. While most research has focused on the role of sleep in memory encoding and consolidation, recent findings suggest that non-REM sleep may also enhance retrieval processes by restoring executive and monitoring functions. Here, we investigated whether a short nap before retrieval could improve performance in forensic memory tasks. Participants watched an aversive video of a robbery and, after 24 h, either took a 60-minute nap (Sleep group) or stayed awake (Wake group) before completing a series of memory tasks, including face recognition (target-present and target-absent lineups), free recall, context recognition, and temporal order. A nap prior to retrieval selectively reduced false identifications in target-absent lineups, increasing correct rejections without affecting performance in target-present trials. Temporal order memory also improved in the Sleep group, whereas no significant differences were observed in free recall or context recognition. Confidence-accuracy calibration was stronger in the Sleep group, particularly when the perpetrator was absent. These findings suggest that a brief nap prior to memory retrieval may improve the accuracy of eyewitness decisions by enhancing metacognitive monitoring and temporal discrimination, offering a simple, non-invasive intervention to reduce errors in forensic settings.

From protection to pollution: Evaluating environmental and human health risks of acaricide use in dairy farming in Kenya

Sustainable intensification of livestock production relies critically on effective disease management, yet the environmental implications of current practices remain poorly understood. The study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of acaricide use in tick control in Kenya’s dairy sector affects environmental and human health risks. Using original survey data from dairy farmers and a two-stage least square (2SLS) approach, the results found that farmers’ adaptation to perceived ineffective tick treatment leads to potentially harmful practices. Twenty percent of farmers improperly rotate acaricides, while 66% under-apply recommended doses. Despite 65% using protective gear, 29% report adverse health effects. Our estimates show that improper acaricide group rotation increases the environmental and human health risks by 35%. The study highlights important trade-offs between animal health management and environmental and human health objectives, suggesting a need to reform current disease prevention approaches to balance productivity gains with environmental sustainability in developing countries.

Daily briefing: Gene that causes obesity also shields against heart disease

Unveiling population structure in South Pacific albacore: insights from genetics and growth

Abstract Albacore (Thunnus alalunga) is a high-value, highly migratory tuna in the South Pacific that is currently assessed and managed as a single stock. Uncertainty it remains over whether southwestern and southeastern individuals constitute the same biological population, with implications for stock assessment and management. Here, we tested for population structure by combining genome-wide resequencing (from which a panel of putatively adaptive SNPs was derived) with analyses of growth (length-weight relationships and growth parameter estimates). Genetic analyses using adaptive markers revealed differentiation between western (WCPO) and eastern Pacific samples. Growth analyses indicated regional differences: western individuals attain larger asymptotic sizes (L∞), whereas eastern individuals exhibit faster growth (higher k) and different length-weight scaling (b). Together, the results provide moderate genomic evidence and strong phenotypic evidence for spatially structured variation in South Pacific albacore, consistent with a mixture of partially differentiated subpopulations. Further broad-scale sampling and integrative studies (e.g., neutral and adaptive genomics, otolith chemistry, tagging, and age-structured growth models) are needed to disentangle environmental and genetic drivers and to evaluate alternative stock-structure hypotheses for management.

Factors associated with hospitalization of people with influenza in a Malaysian tertiary hospital from 2015 to 2019

Influenza contributes substantially to global morbidity and mortality. While most individuals recover from influenza without complications, certain groups are at higher risk of developing severe illness requiring hospitalization. This retrospective cohort study investigated the plausible determinants of hospitalization and its duration among participants who tested positive for influenza A or B. A hospital-based study was conducted in Selangor, Malaysia from 1 January 2015 until 31 December 2019. Sociodemographic characteristics, laboratory investigations, clinical signs and symptoms, and comorbidities were extracted from the hospital’s electronic medical records. Binary logistic and multiple linear regression were used to model the odds of hospitalization and duration of stay, respectively, stratified by age (<18 and ≥ 18 years). A total of 2,593 participants comprising 1,420 < 18 and 1,173 ≥ 18 years were included. Among <18, the odds of hospitalization were higher among those aged under 5 compared to 5–17 years, Malays compared to Chinese, and those with fever, cough, and chest x-ray. Hospitalization duration was higher among Malays and Indians compared to Chinese children, and those with fever, cough and chest x-ray. Among adults, those aged 18–39 years compared to 40–59 years, Malays and Indians compared to Chinese, those with a history of fever, cough, sore throat and chest x-ray were more likely to be hospitalized. The duration among ≥ 18 years was higher among those ≥60 years, chest x-ray, and females. Participants under 5 years are more likely to be hospitalized and those aged 60 and above were more likely to have longer hospital duration compared to all other ages and may benefit more from primary prevention activities such as vaccination. The heterogeneous associations between the risk factors for hospitalization and hospital duration highlight the need for further research. Better risk stratification of influenza patients may better mitigate the impact of influenza A and B.

Atypical tool and object use in wild immature chimpanzees reveals developmental pathways to innovation

Abstract Innovation drives cultural evolution, yet little is known about its developmental origins or the role of immature individuals in generating novel behaviors. We examined 67 object uses by 36 infant and juvenile chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii), over 15 months at Ngogo, Uganda. Nearly half of object uses were atypical, deviating from adult norms. 94% of atypical bouts were novel additions or modifications of adult forms or uses in new contexts, including three efficacious innovations: doll play, moss-sponging, and leaf-clipping to request carrying. To assess individual differences, we developed an Exploration Index integrating frequency, diversity, and atypicality of object use. Nine individuals had notably higher scores. Females and offspring of multiparous mothers scored higher, indicating effects of sex and possible social scaffolding from experienced mothers and siblings on object use. These findings suggest that immatures generate novelty at the margins of species-typical behavior yet vary in their propensity to innovate. A permissive social environment for object play may be key to the developmental pathways of innovation, providing a generative context for behavioral variation on which social learning and selection can act. If retained and transmitted, even rare innovations by immatures could contribute to the accumulation of cultural complexity.

RETRACTED: Enhanced heart disease diagnosis and management: A multi-phase framework leveraging deep learning and personalized nutrition

In health care, an accurate diagnosis with the help of a data-driven forecasting framework takes the risk factors associated with heart disease. However, building such an effective model using deep learning (DL) methods requires high-quality data, i.e., data free of outliers or anomalies. The current paper proposes a new approach to diagnosing and controlling heart diseases by utilizing a multi-tiered data acquisition model, data pre-processing, feature extraction, and DL. The framework encompasses four types of datasets. The first phase of the proposed methodology consists of data acquisition, while the second phase includes advanced data preprocessing for each data type. In phase three, multi-feature extraction methods are used to extract the features from the dataset. In phase four, a combined feature selection technique of ReliefF and Pearson correlation is used to select the best features. Phase five of the study is the formulation of the CILAD-Net DL model that integrates CNN, Inception Net, LSTM, and Angle DetectNet to accurately detect heart disease. The sixth phase implements Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) for nutrition recommendations based on the detected disease, thus improving the treatment individualization. The developed model’s experimental outcomes are validated with other prevailing models in terms of accuracy, recall, hamming loss, and so on. Finally, the outcomes of the proposed model attain the higher accuracy of 0. 998 for the CILAD-Net model, which is significantly better than DenseNet-201 with 0. 988, ANN with 0. 987, KNN with 0. 977, and CL-Net with 0. 984.