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Punica granatum extract demonstrates antiparasitic effects against Caligus clemensi through in silico and in vitro studies

Abstract The increasing resistance of aquatic ectoparasites, particularly Caligus clemensi, to synthetic antiparasitic agents highlights the need for exploration of alternative competing strategies in aquaculture. This study assessed the antiparasitic potential of Punica granatum (pomegranate) methanolic extract, focusing on its bioactive phytochemicals and their synergistic effects. Using gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry (GC‒MS) analysis conducted in this study, we identified a diverse range of compounds, including monoterpenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, and fatty acid derivatives, many of which are known for their neurotoxic, membrane-disrupting, and antimicrobial activities. Notable compounds, such as α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, δ-3-carene, and terpineol, were found to be major constituents of the extract. The presence of p-cymene and m-cymene in the extract may contribute synergistically to its antiparasitic activity by enhancing parasite cell membrane permeability and facilitating the uptake of other bioactive constituents. In addition, in silico molecular docking analysis of a representative pomegranate-derived compound (1-methyl-4-(1-methylethylidene)cyclohexene) revealed strong binding affinity to key detoxification enzymes such as glutathione S-transferase theta 1–1 (GSTT1) and cytochrome P450 3A24. These interactions suggest potential inhibitory effects, which may impair the parasite’s detoxification pathways and metabolic resistance mechanisms. The observed antiparasitic activity is likely due to a novel multimodal mechanism involving neurotoxic, membrane-disruptive, and enzyme-inhibitory actions. P. granatum extract offers a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic agents, with reduced resistance risk. This is the first report combining phytochemical profiling, molecular docking, and bioassays to demonstrate its efficacy against C. clemensi. These findings support its potential as a natural, broad-spectrum parasiticide for sustainable aquaculture and justify further in vivo and toxicological studies.

Study protocol for measuring energy needs and nutritional status of adolescent girls in Abia state, Nigeria: The nutrition and adolescence in rural Nigeria (NARN’ia) Study

Background Adolescents in low- and middle-income countries face significant nutritional challenges, including undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, poor dietary habits, and food insecurity. These issues adversely affect their growth, development, and long-term health. Despite their vulnerability, adolescents are frequently excluded from nutritional program planning due to limited data, weak intervention delivery platforms, and underdeveloped policies. Methods/design The Nutrition and Adolescence in Rural Nigeria (NARN’ia) study aims to address this gap through a comprehensive assessment of energy requirements in adolescent girls (N = 70; ages 10–19 years) in Nigeria. NARN’ia will combine multiple methods: 24-hour dietary recall using the (INDDEX24 app); physical activity monitoring via accelerometry; anthropometric assessments of body composition, and the doubly labeled water method to measure total daily energy expenditure and body composition. Discussion Findings from this study will inform evidence-based nutritional guidelines tailored to adolescent girls in Nigeria. By integrating robust methodologies, NARN’ia will contribute foundational data on adolescent energy needs, supporting future research and policy development in Nigeria and other low- and middle-income countries. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06601959

Leaking of 316L stainless steel heat exchanger tubes in carbon dioxide process

Abstract This study covered a premature leaking of stainless steel 316L heat exchanger tubes. Leaking occurred in a cooling process of carbon dioxide gas mixture from 140 to 55°C. Several leaks were observed after short service life of 70 days. A systematic investigation of the rapid degradation was achieved through a multi-angle approach backed by comprehensive analytical techniques: including visual inspection, optical microscopy, SEM/EDS, and chemical analysis. In addition, valuable insights were obtained from the dew point modeling of condensed acids. The key finding and novelty of this study is the identification of the synergistic dew point corrosion by HCl and HF, and its role in tube damage. Recommendations for higher performance alloys were addressed as well. The insights and understanding presented in this work are believed to be of significant value for both academic and industrial readers.

Exploring health literacy pertaining to general wellbeing and chronic disease management among population registered within Primary Healthcare System: A Study protocol

Background Evidence suggests that high level of health literacy among patients is associated with high levels of accessibility to healthcare, better understanding consent-to-treat forms, increased compliance to treatment (particularly in taking medication for longstanding chronic diseases), comprehending general healthcare and improved preventive care and early disease detection, proper use of home medical devices from patients and increased capability of accessing the various channels of health information when required. The proposed study aims to assess and capture preferences and perceptions regarding health literacy of population (registered within primary care clinics in state of Qatar) in context to their general wellbeing (physical and mental health) and management of chronic disease conditions. Methods The study design will be mixed methods (include both quantitative and qualitative elements). The HLQ survey will be sent online (text messages) to the population registered with PHCC and to capture service users’ perceptions and preferences pertaining to health literacy channels. The qualitative method will be utilized to gain an in-depth understanding of the various health literacy channels, challenges and barriers pertaining to the implementation of the health literacy strategies from both the healthcare provider and service users’ perspective. The qualitative analysis will be interpreted utilizing the Socioecological Model (SEM). The REPORT statement will be followed during analysis and writing of the study. For the qualitative component we aim to report the results in accordance with ‘Consolidation criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) and ‘Standards for reporting qualitative research ‘(SRQR) guidelines. Results The findings (quantitative and qualitative) will be triangulated to design an evidence-based health literacy framework which can be utilized for service design and re-design to deliver optimal patient centered primary health care services within the country & modelled in similar health care settings geographically. Discussion Evidence generated from the study can increase health literacy levels among service users by modification of health behavior through effective health education. Moreover, increased health literacy levels and improved self-care can lead to improved compliance with treatment leading to effective management of diseases, particularly long-term chronic diseases which are associated with multi-morbidity, polypharmacy and challenges associated side effects of prescribed medications.

Heavy mental task has no effect on sex differences in muscle fatigability during moderate-intensity isometric contraction

Home range and activity budget in the Falkland Steamer Duck (Tachyeres brachypterus)

The Falkland Islands support globally important populations of seabirds and coastal birds, underscoring their value for international conservation efforts. However, substantial knowledge gaps impede the development of coherent species management plans. This study focused on the endemic Falkland Steamer Duck, a territorial waterfowl only found around the archipelago, which has remained largely understudied and lacks fundamental ecological information critical to its conservation. To estimate home range sizes, habitat use, and activity budgets, we deployed GPS devices on 29 ducks from two locations (Bleaker Island and Stanley Harbour). Daily travel distances increased with proximity to ponds, kelp beds, and human infrastructures, within each duck’s home range. Absolute area, but not proportion of, kelp significantly influenced home and core range. Patrolling males and incubating females spent less time travelling (respectively 31.4 ± 2.5% and10.3 ± 0.9%), with females spending the most time on land (70.0 ± 2.4%) in line with their breeding role. Foraging time increased closer to kelp, and within larger areas of kelp, as well as closer to human infrastructure. Kelp beds are present in coastal waters all over the archipelago and, consequently, likely influence the distribution and density of Falkland Steamer Ducks. Therefore, any changes in their absolute area are expected to negatively impact the species. Preserving the kelp beds would therefore ensure a stronger resilience of the Falkland Steamer Duck in the context of ongoing climate change.

Correlation between circulating tumor DNA quantity assessed by methylated markers and tumor volume in patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Global burden of polycystic ovary syndrome in women of reproductive age, 1990–2021: Analysis of the global burden of disease study 2021 with projections to 2050

Objective To evaluate the global burden of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among women of reproductive age from 1990 to 2021. Methods This study analyzed population-based data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database on the incidence, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of PCOS in reproductive-aged women. Age-standardized rates for incidence (ASIR), prevalence (ASPR), and DALYs (ASDR) were calculated per 100,000 population, with 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). Data from 204 countries and territories were stratified by age, location, and socio-demographic index (SDI). Results Globally, the burden of PCOS among reproductive-aged women in 2021 was characterized by ASIR of 64.44 (95% UI: 39.07, 103.40) per 100,000 population, ASPR of 3364.53 (95% UI: 2395.08, 4681.81) per 100,000 population, and ASDR of 29.51 (95% UI: 13.09, 61.49) per 100,000 population. Moreover, the pace of increase in ASIR, ASPR, and ASDR accelerated during 1990–2021, with estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) of 0.65 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.69), 0.74 (95% CI: 0.70, 0.77), and 0.72 (95% CI: 0.68, 0.76), respectively. Among the five SDI regions, the middle SDI region exhibited the highest EAPCs for incidence (1.39; 95% CI: 1.34, 1.43), prevalence (1.39; 95% CI: 1.34, 1.43), and DALYs (1.73; 95% CI: 1.69, 1.78). Regionally, the High-income Asia Pacific region demonstrated the highest ASIR of 308.16 (95% UI: 485.83, 171.53) per 100,000 population. At the national level, Japan exhibited the highest ASIR of 360.92 (95% UI: 199.08, 573.59) per 100,000 population. Conclusion The global burden of PCOS among women of reproductive age has shown a consistent upward trend in incidence, prevalence, and DALYs. A comprehensive understanding of the epidemiology of PCOS among women of reproductive age is essential for informing targeted prevention strategies and optimizing disease control measures.

Transcriptomic analysis of long non coding RNAs and their association with TET family genes in Sus scrofa embryo

Can lipid indices aid in predicting diabetic kidney disease? Findings from a cross-sectional, matched case-control study

Background This study explored the association between lipid indices, including AC, TG/HDL-C ratio, AIP, and LCI, and diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Methods A cross-sectional, matched case-control study was conducted involving patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), divided into two groups based on the presence of DKD. The groups were matched for age and duration of diabetes. The association between lipid indices and DKD was assessed using RCS, multivariable logistic regression, and ROC curve analysis. Results The study included 2940 individuals with T2D, with 1470 in each group. A nonlinear association was observed between all lipid indices and the presence of DKD. These lipid indices demonstrated relatively high predictive ability for DKD, with all AUC values higher than 0.707. The AIP and TG/HDL-C ratio had the highest AUCs of 0.717 and 0.713, respectively. Both indices also exhibited the highest sensitivity at 68%, while LCI showed the highest specificity at 79%. After adjusting for potential confounders, all lipid indices were significantly associated with DKD in the multivariable logistic regression analysis. Non-linear associations were found between lipid indices and components of DKD. All lipid indices demonstrated significant relationships with uACR ≥ 30 mg/g, whereas only AIP showed a significant association with eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73m2. According to the ROC curve analysis, AIP was the most effective at identifying reduced eGFR (AUC = 0.676 [0.637–0.712]), and LCI was the best performer for detecting elevated uACR (AUC = 0.741 [0.701–0.783]). Conclusions Lipid indices may serve as valuable, non-invasive tools for the early detection of DKD, potentially leading to effective diabetes management and reducing the burden of DKD.

Pixel intensity of wing photos used to infer efficacy of mosquito control interventions against Anopheles gambiae caught during the RIMDAMAL II clinical trial

Exploring regional air pollution transition dynamics: A multi-state markov model approach

Background Air pollution, commonly measured by the Air Quality Index (AQI), is a significant global health risk, yet its transition dynamics remain poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the regional air pollution transition dynamics across different air quality states. Materials and methods We analyzed weekly average Air Quality Index (AQI) data from January to September 2024 for 19 countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe, collected from an open-access air quality monitoring platform. According to international standards, AQI was categorized into three states (Good, Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy). We applied a multi-state Markov model to assess weekly transitions between these states and estimate the average time spent in one state before transition. Results Findings indicate that in Asia and Africa, air quality tends to deteriorate more frequently than it improves, with low transition rates from “Very Unhealthy” to better states. Transitions from Unhealthy to Good were less frequent in Asia (HR: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.19) and Africa (HR:0.25, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.55) compared to Europe, where air quality showed more stability and improvement. The Good and Unhealthy states in Asia had similar sojourn times of 6.80 (±1.77) and 6.64 (±1.38) weeks, while the Very Unhealthy state lasted 3.36 (±0.98) weeks. The Very Unhealthy state persisted for 0.95 (±0.48) weeks in Africa. Europe maintained the “Good” state longest at 7.68 (±1.98) weeks, with shorter durations for Unhealthy and Very Unhealthy states. Conclusion The study highlights lengthy pollution incidents in Asia and Africa, while Europe demonstrates effective pollution control. These insights can guide policymakers in formulating strategies to mitigate pollution based on regional AQI transition trends.

Correction: Removal of E. coli O157:H7 coliform bacteria from sewage wastewater using silver doped borate bioglass

Sleep apnea is associated with reduced in-hospital mortality in patients admitted for acute heart disease

Background: Sleep apnea (SA) is an independent risk factor for many cardiovascular diseases. The impact of SA on the outcome of patients hospitalized due to cardiovascular diseases is controversial. Recent studies indicated fewer fatal cardiac events associated with SA in a setting where co-factors may play an important role. The aim of the current study was to investigate in-hospital mortality of patients hospitalized with acute heart diseases with or without SA. Methods and findings: In this retrospective, nested case-control study, data were extracted from a Swiss-wide hospitalization database. All patients with a primary diagnosis of acute heart disease were identified. Among those patients, all patients with a co-diagnosis of SA were extracted together with a control population matching the cases 1:1 for age, gender, month of hospitalization and Charlson’s comorbidity index. The impact of SA and other comorbidities was investigated using competing risks survival analysis. Between 2010 and 2020, 744,455 hospitalizations occurred with a primary diagnosis of acute heart disease in Switzerland among which 21,904 had a SA co-diagnosis. Patients with SA had a longer length of stay, were more often rehospitalized and had a higher number of comorbidities. On the other hand, they had a lower in-hospital mortality compared to controls (1.9 [1.8 to 2.1]% vs. 3.9 [3.7 to 4.2]%; subdistribution hazard ratio: 0.40 [95% confidence interval: 0.35 to 0.45], p < 0.001). Several comorbidities significantly interacted with SA. Obesity and hypertension were associated with a lower in-hospital mortality in both SA and non-SA. Shock was more frequent and significantly more harmful in non-SA patients. Conclusions: A SA co-diagnosis in patients hospitalized due to acute heart disease was associated with a lower in-hospital mortality. Explanations for this survival paradox include the interplay of interacting comorbidities and hypoxic preconditioning contributing to the protective effect of SA.

Fractional heat conduction with variable thermal conductivity in rotating hydro-semiconductors

Peer-assisted HIV partner notification services to strengthen index partner testing for newly diagnosed men who have sex with men in coastal Kenya

Background HIV partner notification services (PNS) have been proven safe and effective in finding undiagnosed HIV infections among general populations in settings with high HIV incidence, but have not been regularly implemented among men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to describe experiences with PNS in a cohort of newly diagnosed MSM in coastal Kenya, assess facilitators and barriers to participating in PNS, and explore which PNS strategies were preferred for different types of sexual partners. Methods The mixed-method study was conducted between January and July 2019 involving 27 MSM participants newly diagnosed with HIV who participated in PNS, of which 18 accepted to participate in a semi-structured in-depth interview which captured their perceptions, experiences, and views on PNS. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Results The median age of participants was 28 (interquartile range [IQR] 25–36) years old, and 44.4% completed primary school. The median number of named sexual partners in the previous 12 months was 3 (IQR 2–6; total partners 109). Facilitators to participation in PNS included reassurance of personal safety, support from peer-mobilizers, and a sense of responsibility to others’ well-being to prevent HIV transmission. Barriers to PNS participation included fear of stigma and discrimination as well as missing or incorrect partner contact information. Provider-assisted partner notification was the preferred strategy selected by participants across all types of sexual partners. No participant reported experiencing any IPV or other social harms. Conclusions These findings suggest that PNS, particularly provider-assisted PNS, is a safe and promising HIV testing and linkage strategy for use with MSM in coastal Kenya.

These immune cells won Nobel fame — can they solve autoimmune disease?

Aluminum-derived nanotubes for lung cancer detection: a DFT inquisition

Exploring the impact of classroom climate on music aesthetic literacy in nonmusic majors

This study explores the impact of the classroom climate, encompassing both the physical environment (PE) and teacher–student interactions (TSI), on music aesthetic literacy (MAL) among nonmusic-major college students. Utilizing a cross-sectional design and convenience sampling, data were collected from 305 valid respondents enrolled in music aesthetics courses. Pearson correlation and linear regression analyses were conducted to investigate the relationships between PE, TSI, and four MAL dimensions: Habit, Attitude, Knowledge, and Performance and Appreciation Skill (PAS). Results indicate that both PE and TSI influence MAL significantly and positively, with TSI having a stronger impact. Specifically, TSI demonstrated greater effects on Attitude, Habit, Knowledge, and PAS, while PE had a notable impact on Knowledge and Habit but less influence on PAS. Linear regression results revealed that PE and TSI collectively explained 43.6% of the variance in MAL (F(2,302) = 116.635, p < 0.05), underscoring the importance of the classroom climate in shaping students’ music aesthetic literacy. These findings suggest that enhancing TSI and creating favorable PEs can effectively support music education in higher education.

COVID-19 and chronic liver disease: results from the 1219 patients French registry

Abstract The deleterious impact of Coronavirus SARS CoV-2 related Disease (COVID-19) in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) has been previously described. We report here data from the largest French “real-life” cohort. Patients with CLD regardless of etiology and liver transplant recipients who developed COVID-19 confirmed by a positive PCR and/or an evocative chest CT scan were included. The primary outcome was 30-days mortality. Prognostic factors were analyzed using both uni- and multivariate models in subgroups of transplanted and non-transplanted patients. Between August, 2020, and December, 2021, 1219 patients were included, mostly men (n = 754), median age 61 years, 477 patients with advanced CLD (decompensated (Child–Pugh B or C) in 164 patients); 366 patients were immunocompromised, including 271 organ transplant recipients. Hospitalization in intensive care unit was required in 11% of cases. The median follow-up was 68 days. The overall 30-days mortality was 13% (159 deaths, 62% related to extra-hepatic causes). Among transplant recipients, age was the only independent prognostic factor. In the non-transplanted population, the independent prognostic factors were advanced liver fibrosis (F3 or F4, HR 2.5), obesity (HR 1.56) and age (HR 1.03), whereas immunosuppression was not. Within the subgroup of patients with advanced CLD, decompensation (Child–Pugh B or C) was an independent predictor of mortality (HR 3.8). In conclusion, our results highlight the increased vulnerability of patients with advanced CLD to COVID-19, particularly those with decompensated disease. Conversely, they confirm the absence of excess mortality related to immunosuppression, particularly in organ transplant recipients. Clinical trial registration: Clinical trial (NCT 04,375,670).