Search Results (3,147)

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is essential for global food security, especially in tropical regions. As an important genetic resource, its genetics plays a key role in crop breeding, enabling the development of more productive and pest- and disease-resistant varieties. Scientometrics, which quantitatively analyzes the production and impact of scientific research, is crucial for understanding trends in cassava genetics. This study aimed to apply bibliometric methods to conduct a scientific mapping analysis based on yearly publication trends, paper classification, author productivity, journal impact factor, keywords occurrences, and omic approaches to investigate the application of genetics to the species from 1960 to 2022. From the quantitative data analyzed, 3246 articles were retrieved from the Web of Science platform, of which 654 met the inclusion criteria. A significant increase in scientific production was observed from 1993, peaking in 2018. The first article focused on genetics was published in 1969. Among the most relevant journals, Euphytica stood out with 36 articles, followed by Genetics and Molecular Research (n = 30) and Frontiers in Plant Science (n = 25). Brazil leads in the number of papers on cassava genetics (n = 143), followed by China (n = 110) and the United States (n = 75). The analysis of major methodologies (n = 185) reveals a diversified panorama during the study period. Morpho-agronomic descriptors persisted from 1978 to 2022; however, microsatellite markers were the most widely used, with 102 records. Genomics was addressed in 87 articles, and transcriptomics in 65. By clarifying the current landscape, this study supports cassava conservation and breeding, assists in public policy formulation, and guides future research in the field. Full article

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a significant global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly sexually active adolescents and young adults. These infections, caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, can have profound implications for women’s reproductive health and fertility. This review explores the role of vaginal and uterine infections in women’s infertility, focusing on the most common pathogens and their impact on reproductive outcomes. Bacterial infections, such as those caused by intracellular bacteria (Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, and Chlamydia), Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and bacterial vaginosis, are among the most prevalent causes of infertility in women. Studies have shown that these infections can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal occlusion, and endometrial damage, all of which can impair fertility. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, in particular, is a significant cause of genital tuberculosis and infertility in high-incidence countries. Viral infections, such as Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Herpes simplex virus (HSV), can also affect women’s fertility. While the exact role of HPV in female infertility remains unclear, studies suggest that it may increase the risk of endometrial implantation issues and miscarriage. HSV may be associated with unexplained infertility. Parasitic infections, such as trichomoniasis and schistosomiasis, can directly impact the female reproductive system, leading to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and other complications. Fungal infections, such as candidiasis, are common but rarely have serious outcomes related to fertility. The vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining reproductive health, and alterations in the microbial balance can increase susceptibility to STIs and infertility. Probiotics have been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy to restore the vaginal ecosystem and improve fertility outcomes, although further research is needed to establish their efficacy. In conclusion, vaginal and uterine infections contribute significantly to women’s infertility, with various pathogens affecting the reproductive system through different mechanisms. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures are essential to mitigate the impact of these infections on women’s reproductive health and fertility. Full article

Trace metal pollution in tropical freshwater ecosystems poses growing public health concerns, particularly in regions where fisheries are central to food security; however, little is known about metal exposure risks in the Western Amazon. This study presents the first assessment of trace metal concentrations in fish sold at the main market in El Coca, a rapidly growing city in the Ecuadorian Amazon. We analyzed 11 trace metals in 17 commercially important species and estimated seven health risk indices based on two fish consumption scenarios and international reference dose standards. Our results show that all species exceeded recommended thresholds for arsenic, mercury, and lead, while one species surpassed guidelines for aluminum. Metal concentrations varied by species and river of origin: small catfish from the Payamino River had elevated cadmium, chromium, copper, and manganese levels, potentially linked to upstream gold mining, whereas larger catfish showed higher mercury and arsenic accumulation. Monte Carlo simulations of risk indices suggested overall low disease risk, but the lack of local demographic data limits accurate assessments for vulnerable groups. Despite sampling limitations, our findings offer the first baseline for monitoring trace metal exposure in the northern Ecuadorian Amazon and underscore the need for targeted public health strategies in this understudied region. Full article

Objective: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a Neglected Tropical Disease caused by Leishmania donovani, remains insufficiently addressed by current therapies due to high toxicity, poor efficacy, and immunosuppressive complications. This study aimed to identify and characterize repurposed drugs that simultaneously target parasite-encoded and host-associated mechanisms essential for VL pathogenesis. Methods: Two complementary in silico drug repurposing strategies were employed. The first method utilized electron–ion interaction potential (EIIP) screening followed by molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations targeting two L. donovani proteins: Rab5a and pteridine reductase 1 (PTR1). The second approach employed network-based drug repurposing using the Drugst.One platform, prioritizing candidates via STAT3-associated gene networks. Predicted drug–target complexes were validated by 100 ns MD simulations, and pharmacokinetic parameters were assessed via ADMET profiling using QikProp v7.0 and SwissADME web server. Results: Entecavir and valganciclovir showed strong binding to Rab5a and PTR1, respectively, with Glide Scores of −9.36 and −9.10 kcal/mol, and corresponding MM-GBSA ΔG_bind values of −14.00 and −13.25 kcal/mol, confirming their stable interactions and repurposing potential. Network-based analysis identified nifuroxazide as the top candidate targeting the host JAK2/TYK2–STAT3 axis, with high stability confirmed in MD simulations. Nifuroxazide also displayed the most favorable ADMET profile, including oral bioavailability, membrane permeability, and absence of PAINS alerts. Conclusions: This study highlights the potential of guanine analogs such as entecavir and valganciclovir, and the nitrofuran derivative nifuroxazide, as promising multi-target drug repurposing candidates for VL. Their mechanisms support a dual strategy targeting both parasite biology and host immunoregulation, warranting further preclinical investigation. Full article

Legumes are among the most important crops globally, serving as a major food source for protein and oil. In tropical regions, the cultivation of legumes has expanded significantly due to the increasing demand for food, plant-based products, and sustainable agriculture practices. However, tropical environments pose unique challenges, including high temperatures, erratic rainfall, soil infertility, and a high incidence of pests and diseases. Indeed, legumes are vulnerable to infections caused by bacteria, fungi, oomycetes, viruses, and nematodes. This review highlights the importance of legumes in tropical farming and discusses major diseases affecting productivity and their impact on the economy, environment, and lives of smallholder legume farmers. We emphasize the use of legume genetic resources and breeding, and biotechnology innovations to foster resistance and address the challenges posed by pathogens in legumes. However, an integrated approach that includes other cultivation techniques (e.g., crop rotation, rational fertilization, deep plowing) remains important for the prevention and control of diseases in legume crops. Finally, we highlight the contributions of plant genetic resources to smallholder resilience and food security. Full article

Leishmaniasis, a vector-borne neglected tropical disease, affects over 6.2 million people globally. Case acquisition is increasingly recognized in the United States, and in Texas, most reported cases are locally acquired and speciated to Leishmania mexicana. We conducted a scoping literature review to systematically assess contemporary research on Leishmania in humans, animals, reservoir hosts, or vectors in Texas after 2000. Out of 22 eligible studies, the most prevalent themes were case reports, followed by studies on domestic animals, reservoirs, and vectors, with several studies bridging multiple disciplines. Climate change, urbanization, and habitat encroachment appear to be driving the northward expansion of L. mexicana, which is primarily attributed to shifts in the habitats of key vectors (Lutzomyia anthophora) and reservoirs (Neotoma spp.). Leishmania appears to be expanding into new areas, with potential for further spread. As ecological conditions evolve, strengthening surveillance and clinician awareness is crucial to understanding disease risk and improving early detection and treatment in affected communities. Full article

TasA gene, encoding a functional amyloid protein critical for biofilm formation and antimicrobial activity, was cloned from the endophytic strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens BS-3, isolated from rubber tree roots. This study identified the shortest functional TasA variant (483 bp, 160 aa) reported to date, featuring unique amino acid substitutions in conserved domains. Bioinformatics analysis predicted a signal peptide (1–27 aa) and transmembrane domain (7–29 aa), which were truncated to optimize heterologous expression. Two prokaryotic vectors (pET28a and pCZN1) were constructed, with pCZN1-TasA expressed solubly in Escherichia coli Arctic Express at 15 °C, while pET28a-TasA formed inclusion bodies at 37 °C. Purified recombinant TasA exhibited potent antifungal activity, achieving 98.6% ± 1.09 inhibition against Colletotrichum acutatum, 64.77% ± 1.34 against Alternaria heveae. Notably, TasA completely suppressed spore germination in C. acutatum and Oidium heveae Steinmannat 60 μg/mL. Structural analysis via AlphaFold3 revealed that truncation enhanced protein stability. These findings highlight BS-3-derived TasA as a promising biocontrol agent, providing molecular insights for developing protein-based biopesticides against rubber tree pathogens. Full article

Given the overlap of epidemiological and clinical presentations of both rickettsioses and malaria infections, diagnostic testing where malaria is confirmed or excluded, without subsequent rickettsial testing, specifically in the case of Plasmodium vivax or P. ovale infection, may mask the possibility of relapse. A lack of clinical suspicion of co-infections, absence of knowledge on the geographic distribution of diseases, and lack of availability of point-of-care diagnostic testing for other tropical diseases can often lead to missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis of common tropical infections, including rickettsioses. We herein describe a case of confirmed intercurrent rickettsial and P. vivax infection, with the former potentially triggering a relapse of the latter in a febrile traveler returning to Canada from South America, and review the literature on tropical coinfections in returning travelers. Full article

Background/Objectives: While ART effectively suppresses HIV viremia, many PLWH exhibit persistent immune dysfunction. This study aimed to assess immune recovery and immune exhaustion (PD-1/PD-L1 expression) in newly diagnosed versus long-term ART-treated individuals. Methods: We analyzed 79 PLWH: 52 newly diagnosed individuals (12-month follow-up) and 27 long-term-treated patients (Ukrainian refugees). Flow cytometry was used to evaluate CD4+ and CD8+ counts, the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and PD-1/PD-L1 expression on CD3+, CD4+, and CD19+ lymphocytes. ART regimen and HIV subtype were included as covariates in linear regression models. Results: At 12 months, CD4+ counts were similar between groups (median 596.5 vs. 621 cells/μL, p = 0.22), but newly diagnosed patients had higher CD8+ counts (872 vs. 620 cells/μL, p = 0.028) and a lower CD4+/CD8+ ratio (0.57 vs. 1.05, p = 0.0027). Immune exhaustion markers were significantly elevated in newly diagnosed individuals: CD4+ PD-1+ T cells (24.4% vs. 3.85%, p = 0.0002) and CD3+ PD-1+ T cells (27.3% vs. 12.35%, p < 0.0001). Linear regression confirmed group membership independently predicted higher CD3+ (β = +21.92, p < 0.001), CD4+ (β = +28.87, p < 0.0001), and CD19+ (β = +8.73, p = 0.002) percentages. Lipid parameters and SCORE2 did not differ significantly. Conclusions: Despite virologic suppression and CD4+ recovery, immune exhaustion markers remain elevated in newly diagnosed PLWH, suggesting incomplete immune normalization. Traditional parameters (CD4+ count and CD4+/CD8+ ratio) may not fully capture immune status, warranting broader immunologic profiling in HIV care. Full article

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease common in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. This study aimed to develop a topical meglumine antimoniate gel (MA-gel) for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The MA-gel was characterized in terms of morphology, pH, swelling, porosity, rheology, and thermal properties by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Biopharmaceutical evaluation included in vitro drug release and ex vivo skin permeation. Safety was evaluated through biomechanical skin property measurements and cytotoxicity in HaCaT and RAW 267 cells. Leishmanicidal activity was tested against promastigotes and amastigotes of Leishmania infantum, and in silico studies were conducted to explore possible mechanisms of action. The composition of the MA-gel included 30% MA, 20% Pluronic^® F127 (P407), and 50% water. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a sponge-like and porous internal structure of the MA-gel. This formula exhibited a pH of 5.45, swelling at approximately 12 min, and a porosity of 85.07%. The DSC showed that there was no incompatibility between MA and P407. Drug release followed a first-order kinetic profile, with 22.11 µg/g/cm² of the drug retained in the skin and no permeation into the receptor compartment. The MA-gel showed no microbial growth, no cytotoxicity in keratinocytes, and no skin damage. The IC₅₀ for promastigotes and amastigotes of L. infantum were 3.56 and 23.11 µg/mL, respectively. In silico studies suggested that MA could act on three potential therapeutic targets according to its binding mode. The MA-gel demonstrated promising physicochemical, safety, and antiparasitic properties, supporting its potential as a topical treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Full article

Background: Polyparasitic infections remain widespread in endemic regions, yet its contributing factors and health impact are not well understood. This study aims to estimate the prevalence and associated factors and examines the effect of polyparasitic infection on haemoglobin levels among children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Lambaréné, Gabon, among children aged 2–17 years from November 2019 to December 2020. Haemoglobin levels, environmental conditions, and sociodemographic data were collected. Stool, urine, and blood samples were analysed using light microscopy for parasite detection. Factors associated with polyparasitism were explored. Results: Out of 656 participants, 65.4% had at least one infection, with intestinal protozoa species (21.3%), Trichuris trichiura (33%), Ascaris lumbricoides (22%), Schistosoma haematobium (20%), and Plasmodium falciparum (10%) being the most common. Polyparasitic infection was identified in 26% of children, mostly as bi-infections (69.2%), and was negatively associated with haemoglobin levels (β = −0.06). Conclusions: These findings emphasise the burden of polyparasitic infections and adverse health effects in Lambaréné, Gabon. Full article

Cancer disparities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) arise from multifaceted interactions between environmental exposures, infectious agents, and systemic inequities, such as limited access to care. The exposome, a framework encompassing the totality of non-genetic exposures throughout life, offers a powerful lens for understanding these disparities. In LMICs, populations are disproportionately affected by air and water pollution, occupational hazards, and oncogenic infections, including human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and neglected tropical diseases, such as schistosomiasis. These infectious agents contribute to increased cancer susceptibility and poor outcomes, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Moreover, climate change, food insecurity, and barriers to healthcare access exacerbate these risks. This review adopts a population-level exposome approach to explore how environmental and infectious exposures intersect with genetic, epigenetic, and immune mechanisms to influence cancer incidence and progression in LMICs. We highlight the critical pathways linking chronic exposure and inflammation to tumor development and evaluate strategies such as HPV and HBV vaccination, antiretroviral therapy, and environmental regulation. Special attention is given to tools such as exposome-wide association studies (ExWASs), which offer promise for exposure surveillance, early detection, and public health policy. By integrating exposomic insights into national health systems, especially in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and South Asia, LMICs can advance equitable cancer prevention and control strategies. A holistic, exposome-informed strategy is essential for reducing global cancer disparities and improving outcomes in vulnerable populations. Full article

Background: The 2022 conflict in Ukraine triggered mass migration, leading to a significant influx of Ukrainian refugee children into Poland. This situation raises concerns about hepatitis B virus immunity, as Ukraine’s hepatitis B vaccination coverage has been inconsistent compared to Poland’s high vaccination rates. Objective: To evaluate hepatitis B immunity and infection prevalence among Ukrainian refugee children residing in Southern Poland and to assess implications for vaccination strategies in the host country. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 1322 Ukrainian refugee children (0–18 years) presenting to a pediatric infectious diseases department in Southern Poland between February 2022 and March 2024. Data on vaccination history, demographic characteristics, and selected laboratory parameters, including hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-HBs antibody levels, were collected. Protective immunity was defined as anti-HBs antibody levels ≥10 IU/L. Results: Among the participants (mean age 9.9 years; 50.2% female), 83.2% were reported as vaccinated according to national immunization programs, but only 64.9% demonstrated protective anti-HBs antibody levels. Protective antibody prevalence declined significantly with age, with less than half of adolescents aged 15–18 years showing immunity. Five children (0.4%) were diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B, four of whom were unvaccinated. Conclusions: This study identifies a significant gap in hepatitis B immunity among Ukrainian adolescent refugees residing in Southern Poland, with less than half possessing protective anti-HBs antibody levels. This immunity gap and the high risk of sexual transmission of the hepatitis B virus in adolescents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive surveillance, screening, and catch-up vaccination programs. Full article

Camellia vietnamensis grows in a unique tropical environment, and its seed oil has a rich aroma. The content of unsaturated fatty acids in C. vietnamensis oil is up to 90%, which can regulate human lipid metabolism and prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Compared with olive oil, C. vietnamensis oil has a higher content of unsaturated fatty acids. This study used eleven C. vietnamensis cultivars cultivated on Hainan Island. Among the 11 cultivars, “Boao 1” had fruits with the largest vertical diameter of 45.05 mm, while “Haida 1” had fruits with the largest horizontal diameter, single-fruit weight, and fresh 100-grain weight of 53.5 mm, 70.6 g, and 479.01 g, respectively. “Boao 3” had an acid value and peroxide value of 1.59 mg/g and 3.50 mmol/kg, respectively, and its saponification value content was 213.18 mg/g. “Boao 5” had the highest iodine value, 101.86 g/100 g, among the 11 cultivars. The content of unsaturated fatty acids in the seed oil of 11 cultivars ranged from 84.87% to 87.38%. The qRT-PCR results confirmed that “Boao 3” had a higher content of flavonoids and fatty acids than other cultivars. The comprehensive analysis of physiological and biochemical indices showed that the top five cultivars were “Haida 1”, “Boao 3”, “Haida 2”, “Boao 1”, and “Boao 5”. These five cultivars were suitable for large-scale cultivation in tropical regions, such as Hainan Island. This study provided a theoretical basis for the breeding of C. vietnamensis cultivars in tropical regions. Full article

Lung transplantation remains the standard of care for end-stage lung disease, yet a persistent gap exists between donor lung availability and growing clinical demand. Expanding the donor pool and optimising donor lung management are therefore critical priorities. However, no universally accepted management protocols are currently in place. This narrative review examines evidence-based strategies to improve lung utilisation across three donor categories: donors after brain death (DBD), controlled donors after circulatory death (cDCD), and uncontrolled donors after circulatory death (uDCD). A systematic literature search was conducted to identify interventions targeting lung preservation and function, including protective ventilation, recruitment manoeuvres, fluid and hormonal management, and ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP). Distinct pathophysiological mechanisms—sympathetic storm and systemic inflammation in DBD, ischaemia–reperfusion injury in cDCD, and prolonged warm ischaemia in uDCD—necessitate tailored approaches to lung preservation. In DBD donors, early application of protective ventilation, bronchoscopy, and infection surveillance is essential. cDCD donors benefit from optimised pre- and post-withdrawal management to mitigate lung injury. uDCD donor lungs, uniquely vulnerable to ischaemia, require meticulous post-mortem evaluation and preservation using EVLP. Implementing structured, evidence-based lung management strategies can significantly enhance donor lung utilisation and expand the transplantable organ pool. The integration of such practices into clinical protocols is vital to addressing the global shortage of suitable lungs for transplantation. Full article