Search Results (2,277)

Background: Stunting remains a major public health problem among ethnic minority children in mountainous areas of Vietnam. Picky eating has been suggested as a potential behavioral risk factor for poor child growth, but evidence from vulnerable rural populations remains limited. This study examined the association between picky eating and stunting among ethnic minority children aged 12–35 months in Vietnam. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to November 2025 in two communes of Phu Tho province, formerly part of Lac Son District, Hoa Binh Province, Vietnam. A total of 341 children aged 12–35 months and their caregivers were included. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires on feeding practices and child characteristics. Picky eating was assessed based on caregiver-reported behaviors. Anthropometric measurements were performed according to standard procedures, and height-for-age Z-scores were calculated using the WHO Child Growth Standards. Zinc status was assessed in a subsample of children. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with stunting. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were reported. Results: The prevalence of picky eating was 39.6%, while 24.9% of children were stunted. Zinc deficiency was identified in 41.9% of children with available blood samples. In multivariable analysis, picky eating was significantly associated with increased odds of stunting (AOR = 3.63; 95% CI: 1.71–7.70). Snacking before main meals was also independently associated with stunting (AOR = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.01–3.24). In contrast, zinc deficiency was associated with stunting in crude analysis but was not statistically significant after adjustment. Other factors, including child age, sex, caregiver identity, and timing of complementary feeding, were not independently associated with stunting. Conclusions: Picky eating was common and was independently associated with stunting among ethnic minority children in this mountainous setting. These findings suggest that behavioral feeding practices, particularly picky eating and pre-meal snacking, warrant attention in nutritional programs targeting this population; however, longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the direction of this relationship. Full article

Background: Lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG3) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4) are immune checkpoint receptors and inhibitory regulators of T-cells. Methods: Here, we analyzed the prevalence and potential impact of the LAG3 gene variant rs870849 and the CTLA4 gene variant rs231775 in AML patients eligible for autologous stem cell transplantation. Results: While CTLA4 rs231775 was prevalent at reduced minor allele frequencies (MAF 0.33), LAG3 rs870849 was prevalent at elevated minor allele frequencies (MAF 0.58) in AML patients, compared to the allele frequencies in the European population (MAF 0.37 and MAF 0.39). The gene risk analysis indicated a dose-dependent risk of AML disease associated with LAG3 rs870849, but no risk associated with CTLA4 rs231775. Baseline blood count profiles differed across LAG3 genotypes, suggesting a link between LAG3 rs870849 and disease-associated levels of anemia, thrombocytopenia and peripheral blast percentage. Conslusions: The germline LAG3 variant rs870849 may be associated with AML disease risk and specific hematological disease features. Full article

Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous silicic volcanism is widespread along the Southeast China continental margin, yet the timing, magma plumbing, and geodynamic drivers of individual volcanic centers remain debated. Here, we integrate whole-rock geochemistry with zircon U–Pb geochronology, zircon trace elements, and in situ zircon Lu–Hf isotopes for high-silica rhyolites from the Bijiashan volcanic complex, eastern Guangdong, to constrain magmatic evolution and its link to Paleo-Pacific subduction dynamics. LA–ICP–MS zircon U–Pb analyses were used to define two dominant crystallization populations: 145.4 ± 1.2 Ma (n = 14; MSWD = 1.7) for sample BJS-18 and 141.4 ± 1.3 Ma (n = 14; MSWD = 1.6) for sample BJS-27, yielding dominant zircon U–Pb age populations of 141.1–145.4 Ma, thereby constraining the timing of the main silicic volcanism (magma crystallization immediately preceding eruption) to the Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary. Minor older peaks at 157.0 ± 1.6 Ma (BJS-18) and 153.1 ± 1.5 Ma (BJS-27) suggest antecrystic or inherited components from a long-lived trans-crustal magmatic system. Whole-rock data indicate subalkaline, high-K calc-alkaline rhyolitic affinities, with apparent peraluminous signatures affected by post-magmatic alkali mobility. The rhyolites are characterized by pronounced negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.085–0.395), low Sr contents (5.9–29.0 ppm), and arc-like trace-element signatures with Nb–Ta–Ti depletions. Zircon trace elements indicate crystallization temperatures of 608–842 °C and redox states from ΔFMQ = −3.90 to +1.71, with syneruptive grains clustering near FMQ ± 1 and xenocrystic grains systematically more reduced and hotter, implying vertically and temporally zoned magma storage. Zircon εHf(t) values (−7.4 to −0.9) and Mesoproterozoic TDM2 ages (1.18–1.66 Ga) indicate substantial reworking of ancient Cathaysian crust. In contrast, the relatively radiogenic upper εHf(t) values and the occurrence of mafic lithic fragments suggest limited juvenile or mantle-derived input into the crust-dominated magmatic system. Together with tectonic discrimination diagrams indicating a continental arc affinity, these results support Early Cretaceous arc-related silicic magmatism during a regional transition from compression to extension, plausibly linked to Paleo-Pacific slab rollback beneath Southeast China. Full article

To assess the current genetic status of cultured populations of the speckled blue grouper (Epinephelus cyanopodus) in China and to provide a scientific basis for the selective breeding of superior strains, this study utilized single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci screened via whole-genome resequencing technology to analyze the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of 90 E. cyanopodus samples collected from six cultured populations in southeastern China. Comprehensive evaluation of various genetic diversity parameters indicated that all populations exhibited moderate genetic diversity with minor differences among them. Population structure analysis revealed weak genetic differentiation among populations, suggesting that anthropogenic introduction and translocation practices may be the primary factors contributing to the unclear population genetic structure. Additionally, this study identified a number of key genes associated with energy metabolism, muscle development, and environmental adaptation. The findings provide important theoretical foundations for the broodstock selection and scientific aquaculture of E. cyanopodus. Full article

Background: During the COVID pandemic increased rates of intensive care unit (ICU) admission, mechanical ventilation, caesarean delivery, and preterm birth among women with SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy were recorded. Purpose: This study describes the clinical course and perinatal outcomes of pregnant women with COVID-19 across pre- and post-vaccination periods. Methods: This study included all pregnant women with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection who subsequently delivered at the University General Hospital of Larissa between March 2020 and May 2023. Demographics, comorbidities, gestational age at infection and at delivery, COVID-19 symptoms, need for hospitalization, obstetric complications, mode of delivery, and neonatal outcomes were documented. An assessment of ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) was performed in a subset of women. Results: A total of 327 women (including 14 twin gestations) were recorded. Most women experienced mild disease while a minority required hospital admission, or intensive care (1.8 and 0.3% for the studied population, respectively). Fever and upper respiratory symptoms predominated, while radiologic evidence of pneumonia was rare. Overall preterm birth (<37 weeks) occurred in 13% of pregnancies and caesarean section in about two thirds of deliveries. Neonatal outcomes were favorable, with low rates of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and no early neonatal deaths. IMA values were higher during acute infection and declined towards recovery. Conclusion: Pregnant women with COVID-19 in Central Greece had predominantly mild clinical courses and excellent perinatal outcomes. IMA may represent a biologically plausible marker of disease activity, but further studies are needed. Full article

Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) is an important multifunctional crop with great value in food supply, industrial processing and bioenergy utilization. Crude protein content (CPC) is a core target trait for sweetpotato quality breeding. To dissect the genetic basis of CPC and identify key candidate genes, we used an F₁ population of 212 individuals. CPC was measured by near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) in 2020 and 2021, and QTL mapping was performed using a high-density SNP genetic linkage map. Candidate genes were explored via a genome-wide association study (GWAS), multiple-database functional annotation, and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) validation. The results showed that: (1) CPC in the population exhibited a continuous normal distribution with high inter-year stability, and phenotypic variation was mainly controlled by genetic factors; (2) one stable minor-effect QTL for CPC, qCPC09-1, was mapped to Chr09: 7906895–8614924 bp, explaining 5.7% of phenotypic variation; (3) GWAS detected no significant SNP loci, suggesting that CPC is regulated by multiple minor-effect genes; (4) genes within the qCPC09-1 interval were significantly enriched in three protein synthesis-related KEGG pathways: ribosome, nitrogen metabolism and ubiquinone and other terpenoid–quinone biosynthesis; (5) qPCR verified that itf09g13420 and itf09g13230 were upregulated in the low-CPC parent Yushu 10 and negatively correlated with CPC, while itf09g13550 was upregulated in the high-CPC parent Xin 24 and positively correlated with CPC. These three genes exhibited expression patterns highly consistent with phenotypic differences. This study provides a theoretical basis and technical support for molecular marker-assisted breeding and elite germplasm innovation in sweetpotato. Full article

Lipizzan horses, bred for over four centuries, represent a unique genetic, cultural and historic resource. This study assessed genetic diversity and population structure across seven European Lipizzan populations, with emphasis on the Bosnia and Herzegovina population. A total of 547 Lipizzan horses were genotyped using 12 microsatellite markers. The parameters of genetic variability, admixture level and migration rate were calculated. The mean number of alleles, effective number of alleles and Shannon’s information index were 5.78, 3.24 and 1.31, respectively. The average fixation indices were estimated to be F_IT = 0.05 (SE = 0.02), F_IS = −0.02 (SE = 0.01), and F_ST = 0.07 (SE = 0.01). The level of genetic diversity observed within each Lipizzan horse subpopulation shows similar fluctuations, with the lowest values observed in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the highest in the Slovak Lipizzan population. The observed heterozygosity was lower than the expected heterozygosity. The Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was maintained in Serbia, while minor deviations occurred in other populations, most notably in Slovakia. Nei’s genetic distances were highest between Slovakia and other populations, particularly Bosnia and Herzegovina. The population structure analysis confirmed admixture involving Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the migration pattern corresponded to geographic proximity and breeding practices. These findings provide a valuable basis for developing breeding strategies to reduce inbreeding and preserve genetic diversity. Full article

Suicidal behavior includes completed suicides and suicide attempts, which reflect different risk profiles and require joint analysis. In the Republic of Kazakhstan, recent data that simultaneously assess temporal trends, regional heterogeneity, and the probability of a fatal outcome remain limited. This study aimed to comprehensively assess the dynamics of completed suicides and suicide attempts in the Republic of Kazakhstan in 2023–2024, describe regional and age differences, and identify factors associated with a higher likelihood of completed suicide versus an attempt. A nationwide retrospective population-based observational study was conducted using anonymized officially registered data on suicidal behavior in Kazakhstan for 2023–2024. All registered episodes were included (n = 15,478), including completed suicides (n = 7102) and attempts (n = 8376). Age strata were 5–14, 15–24, 25–34, 35–44, 45–54, 55–64, 65–74, and 75+. Rates per 100,000 population, the attempt-to-completed ratio, and the proportion of completed suicides among all episodes were calculated. Associations were assessed using odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (reference group: 15–24 years) and the Cochran–Armitage χ² test for trend (p < 0.05). In 2024 versus 2023, the number of completed suicides decreased from 3694 to 3408 (−7.7%), and attempts from 4340 to 4036 (−7.0%). Among minors, completed cases decreased (−14.2%), while attempts increased (+20.5%). The completed suicide rate declined from 18.6 to 17.2 per 100,000, and the attempt rate from 21.9 to 20.4 per 100,000. Across regions in 2024, completed suicide rates ranged from 11.7 to 28.8 per 100,000, attempt rates from 5.0 to 46.5 per 100,000, and the attempt-to-completed ratio from 0.3 to 3.6. Age showed a stable lethality gradient, with the proportion of completed suicides among all episodes increasing from 26.4% (15–24) to 67.7% (75+). The risk of completed suicide versus an attempt was highest in the 75+ group (OR = 5.86; 95% CI 5.15–6.67; p < 0.001) and increased sharply after age 45. In 2024, the likelihood of a fatal outcome was significantly higher for episodes with unestablished circumstances (OR = 2.29; 95% CI 2.08–2.52; p < 0.001) and severe somatic diseases (OR = 2.64; 95% CI 1.91–3.65; p < 0.001), whereas family/relationship conflicts were more common among attempts (e.g., conflict with parents OR = 0.12; 95% CI 0.06–0.21; p < 0.001). Similar patterns were observed in 2023 (unestablished circumstances OR = 1.92; severe somatic diseases OR = 2.22; conflict with parents OR = 0.17; all p < 0.001). In 2023–2024, Kazakhstan showed a decline in registered completed suicides and attempts; however, the structure of suicidal behavior is becoming more complex. Attempts among minors are increasing, high regional heterogeneity persists, and there is a pronounced age-related increase in the probability of a fatal outcome, especially after age 45. Prevention priorities should include targeted measures for older age groups and patients with severe somatic pathology, strengthening programs for early identification and support of minors, and improving the quality of registration and interagency analysis of the circumstances of fatal outcomes. Full article

This manuscript examines the total toxic releases from electric utilities and mining facilities in the United States in 2020, focusing on their relationships with human health outcomes. The research highlights the adverse effects of air and water pollution, linking exposure to toxic emissions to several health issues, such as low birth weight, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. It underscores the disproportionate impact of these pollutants on low-income and minority populations. This research project utilizes two sets of data: (1) environmental data, the EPA’s Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) data that records total emissions of all-electric and mining facilities, and (2) health data, the PLACES health data. The results of this study show that census tracts exposed to higher toxic releases are expected to have worse health outcomes. The coefficients for total toxic release indicate that higher toxic release corresponds to a higher rate of cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, kidney diseases, arthritis, cardiac heart disorders (CHD), and stroke. Except for diabetes and kidney diseases, the associations are statistically significant. The analysis indicates the need for comprehensive public health strategies to mitigate the risks posed by toxic releases, particularly for vulnerable communities. Full article

Background/Objectives: Current prophylactic human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines rely on major capsid proteins (L1). Although highly immunogenic, L1-based immunity is clade-restricted owing to the hypervariability of HPV strains across different geographic regions. This restricts cross-protection against diverse, localized, and non-vaccine viral strains circulating in specific areas, leaving these populations vulnerable to regional genotypes. Methods: We aimed to design a cross-protective vaccine tailored to local viral diversity through evolutionary and immunoinformatic analyses of circulating HPV strains in Thailand. Both major (L1) and minor (L2) capsid proteins were analyzed to evaluate selective evolutionary pressures, structural sequence conservation, and cross-strain promiscuity of predicted B- and T-cell epitopes using the IEDB database. The predicted immunogenic profile of the combined L1/L2 proteins was further assessed using in silico immune response simulations. Results: Evolutionary analysis confirmed that although the L1 protein is under strict purifying selection, it exhibits high regional interclade variability. L1-only epitopes demonstrated restricted cross-strain conservation, creating structural blind spots against divergent regional variants. The minor capsid protein (L2) harbored highly conserved dual-action core peptides that are evolutionarily conserved across multiple HPV type. Incorporation of conserved L2 regions alongside L1 sequences may broaden the predicted epitope coverage and help address limitations associated with L1 variability. The proposed multi-targeted L1/L2 construct therefore represents a computational framework for the development of candidate cross-reactive HPV vaccines relevant to circulating Thai genotypes. However, experimental validation remains necessary to determine immunogenicity, cross-neutralization potential, and protective efficacy. Conclusion: Our findings highlight these conserved HPV epitopes as potential targets for future development of next-generation cross-subtype prophylactic vaccines with broader population coverage. Full article

This paper revisits assimilation theory—developed to explain immigrant incorporation into U.S. society—and advances a reformulation centered on reciprocal assimilation. Classical models describe a linear convergence toward dominant Anglo-American norms, while segmented assimilation highlights multiple pathways shaped by context, race, and class. Both, however, tend to frame incorporation as a directional process in which minority groups adapt to dominant institutions. Drawing on contemporary autism scholarship, this paper brings assimilation theory into dialogue with neurodiversity to examine how its core assumptions extend beyond immigrant contexts. Using autism as a critical case, we show that social adaptation often occurs through camouflaging (masking, compensation, and behavioral adjustment), producing outward conformity without changing underlying neurological differences and often carrying psychological costs. These dynamics suggest that inclusion is frequently conditional on sustained performance of normative behavior rather than true structural incorporation. We identify an underlying assumption of universal assimilability within assimilation research and show how engaging with disability calls for a broader conception of incorporation. In response, we propose reciprocal assimilation as a framework in which adaptation emerges through dynamic interaction among individuals, institutions, and social structures. Integrating life-course concepts—turning points, cumulative (dis)advantage, agency, and social bonds—we illustrate how participation trajectories are shaped by accessibility, accommodations, stigma, and support over time. We conclude that a reciprocal model shifts emphasis from cultural convergence to meaningful participation, offering a more flexible framework for understanding incorporation across diverse populations, with implications for research, measurement, and policy. Full article

Buxus obtusifolia (Mildbr.) Hutch is an evergreen shrub endemic to East Africa and is traditionally used to treat chest ailments. Our recent investigation on the dichloromethane leaf extract of this species yielded several aminosteroid alkaloids, some of which demonstrated promising in vitro antiprotozoal activity warranting more detailed studies on this interesting plant and its bioactive constituents. Given that abiotic factors are known to influence the biosynthesis and accumulation of plant secondary metabolites, this study aimed to investigate seasonal and organ-specific variability in the alkaloid profile of B. obtusifolia to gain insights into the dynamics of their formation and, potentially, obtain hints at the best times to harvest individual alkaloids. Consequently, leaf and twig samples were collected each month from the same population over a period of one year and analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with positive-mode electrospray ionization double quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–ESI⁺–QqTOF–MS/MS). The resulting data, after conversion to <retention time: mass/charge ratio> (<t_R:m/z>) variables, were analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA) to characterize variations in the metabolite profile. Evaluation of the first three principal components revealed clear differences between leaves and twigs, as well as subtle overall seasonal changes with some distinct dry-season clustering. A volcano plot was used to further analyze the differences between the minor constituents of the two organs. In total, 15 aminosteroid alkaloids were identified as key contributors to these differences. This represents the first seasonal and organ-specific phytochemical variability investigation in B. obtusifolia. Thus, this study offered the first valuable insights into the possible association of some abiotic factors and the phytochemical profile of this plant. Studies including further populations of this species from different locations will have to show whether the present findings allow general conclusions with respect to the investigated compounds’ accumulation in response to external factors. Furthermore, the present results represent a basis to delineate the optimal harvest period for targeted isolation of larger quantities of bioactive aminosteroids for further development. Full article

Background: Sleep apnea is identified and treated less frequently among racial and ethnic minorities. Objective: The purpose of this systematic review was to examine disparities among racial and ethnic minorities and to understand the reasons for poor sleep health. Methods: The authors conducted a literature search using PubMed and Cochrane Library databases, last accessed in September 2025, using regular and MeSH keywords. A total of 123 articles were identified. PRISMA guidelines were followed, the PICO framework was applied, and the inclusion criteria were based on studies conducted in the past 10 years. After quality assessment, 18 studies were included for in-depth analysis. Results: The 18 studies included meta-analyses and observational cohort studies. In total, 51,489 patients were represented. Studies revealed that sleep apnea is underdiagnosed and undertreated in ethnic minority populations. Resident location, gender, economic status, and marital status also play an important role. One study noted clinically insignificant differences in positive airway pressure requirements between black and white populations. Nocturnal hypertension and increased left ventricle size are also observed in untreated sleep apnea. Given the heterogenous nature of the studies, quality risk assessment was not possible, which is a limitation of this study. Conclusions: Sleep apnea is underdiagnosed and undertreated among ethnic minorities. Factors such as ancestry, comorbidities, social determinants, geography, and healthcare access drive global inequities. Further sleep apnea phenotyping may be of value in planning treatment strategies. Full article

Shoulder dysfunction characterized by scapular internal rotation is associated with muscle weakness, pectoralis minor shortening, and altered postural alignment. Although breathing-integrated scapular stabilization or thoracic–scapular stabilization exercises may improve these impairments, no prior study has directly compared their effects in this population. Methods: Thirty-two adults with shoulder dysfunction characterized by scapular internal rotation were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 16), which performed breathing-integrated scapular stabilization exercises, or a control group (n = 16), which performed thoracic–scapular stabilization exercises. Both groups participated in a 4-week intervention program conducted three times per week, with each session lasting 40 min. Muscle strength, pectoralis minor length (PML), and shoulder sagittal angle (SSA) were assessed at baseline and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA to examine group × time interactions, followed by Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc tests (α = 0.025). Results: No significant group × time interaction effects were observed for any outcome (p > 0.025), indicating that neither intervention demonstrated clear superiority over the other during the study period; however, both groups showed significant improvements over time in muscle strength, PML, and SSA following intervention (p < 0.025), except for upper trapezius strength, which did not change significantly. Conclusions: Both breathing-integrated scapular stabilization and thoracic–scapular stabilization exercises were associated with improvements in muscle strength, pectoralis minor length, and shoulder sagittal angle over time in individuals with shoulder dysfunction characterized by scapular internal rotation. However, no clear superiority of one intervention over the other was demonstrated during the 4-week study period. Full article

Background: Recent studies have shown that catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation leads to an improvement in mortality and a reduction in hospitalization in patients with end-stage heart failure. It is therefore hypothesized that in an end-stage heart failure population, atrial fibrillation is of great relevance and that interventional therapy is crucial to preventing further progression, especially with the aim of avoiding a heart transplant. In this paper, we describe the clinical presentation of atrial fibrillation and its management in a real end-stage heart failure cohort of patients actively waiting on a heart transplant through EUROTRANSPLANT. Methods: A total of 577 patients have been actively listed for heart transplant in our clinic. Of these, we examined all patients who were actively listed by the key date of 31 December 2024. Patients already treated by assist devices such as the left-ventricular assist device and high-urgency listed patients were excluded, as were minors and patients in need of simultaneous transplantation of other organs in addition to the heart. Results: Thirty-one patients were included in our analysis. In this cohort, 18 patients (58%) had no diagnosis of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. A total of 13 patients (42%) presented with atrial fibrillation or flutter: 3/13 (23%) paroxysmal, 8/13 (62%) persistent, 1/13 (8%) permanent atrial fibrillation, and 1/13 (8%) atrial flutter. Moreover, 9/13 (69%) patients with atrial fibrillation had been diagnosed during evaluation and before the active listing period for heart transplant. Only three patients developed atrial fibrillation during the active listing period (two with atypical atrial flutter, one with atrial fibrillation). In those three patients, rhythm control could be achieved: the patient with new-onset atrial fibrillation was treated by pulmonary vein ablation, and in the two patients with newly diagnosed atypical atrial flutter, electrical cardioversion was performed. Conclusions: In our real end-stage heart failure cohort, more than half of the patients do not have atrial fibrillation. Patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation often receive their diagnosis before they are listed for heart transplant. However, atrial fibrillation is not a common cause of clinical worsening while actively waiting on a heart transplant. Full article