PLoS ONE最新文献

Researchers and practitioners have called for the use of high-impact practices to support student engagement and development in higher education institutions in the United States. Many studies have used quantitative methods to validate the importance of these practices in supporting broad academic and social outcomes, but fewer have used qualitative approaches to understand the range of outcomes that students perceive they are obtaining from these experiences. The development and evaluation of high-impact practices cannot be fully realized without leveraging student voices to understand the range of potential benefits that students acquire. Identifying practices that students perceive as valuable to their learning is essential for cultivating meaningful experiences that support student development and improve affective dispositions toward educational experiences. Second-year students are a particularly understudied population in higher education, facing unique challenges such as the "sophomore slump" that warrant increased access to high-impact practices. To complement existing literature on high-impact practices and second-year student development, this study applied a phenomenographic approach to analyze students' experiences in a summer-bridge program that supported students (n = 133) through the second-year transition. Using weekly written reflections as a primary data source, student experiences and outcomes were examined across four dimensions of student development: academic, social, professional, and personal. Students reported a variety of positive outcomes from their consistent participation in these practices, with a range of benefits observed primarily in their academic, personal, and social enrichment experiences. Perceptions of professional development outcomes were notably less salient and less detailed compared to the other three dimensions, suggesting that the types of activities students chose in this category may have offered fewer immediate benefits. Implications for cultivating meaningful experiences in higher education that can support second-year students' transition and development are discussed.

Over 95% of HIV-1 proviruses are defective and were once considered clinically irrelevant. However, growing evidence shows that these defective proviruses can still be transcribed and translated into viral proteins. Here, we developed an improved immunofluorescence protocol that combines two anti-Nef antibodies with one anti-Gag antibody, along with membrane and nuclear staining, enabling direct visualization of protein expression and localization. This method allows detailed characterization of the expression patterns and subcellular distribution of Gag and Nef proteins derived from defective proviruses. The protocol provides a practical tool for investigating the potential functions of proteins expressed from defective HIV-1 proviruses and for facilitating the ability to determine the biologic activity of cells harboring defective HIV-1 proviruses in patients living with HIV.

Background: The lymphatic filariasis (LF) elimination program in Nepal was launched in 2003, three years after the implementation of a global program to eliminate lymphatic filariasis globally. Based on antigenic prevalence below the cut-off value, i.e., ≤ 2% shown by the transmission assessment survey (TASI) report of 2017-2018, the program was stopped in Nepal. The report indicated that antigen-positive children were clustered in the community and considered hotspots. In order to find the status of lymphatic filariasis transmission at the community level, the present study was designed in the hotspots to assess antigenemia among the children born after mass drug administration (MDA), along with vector infection/infectivity in identified hotspots of Central Nepal.

Methods: Each of two districts from the hilly and Terai regions of Central Nepal was selected based on comparatively high antigenic prevalence shown by previous TASI reports, and a descriptive cross-sectional study was designed. Two specific methods were employed: a Filarial Test Strip (Alere, Scorborough, ME) was used for antigenemia (n = 791) among children, and gravid traps were used for vector mosquito collection. Parous mosquitoes (n = 3344) were dissected for infection/or infectivity.

Results: The result indicated that antigen-positive cases were unexpectedly increased in hotspots of one each from the hilly region (Dhading) and Terai region (Mahottari), i.e., above the critical level (≥ 2%). Antigen prevalence increased from baseline prevalence, which was significantly associated with the number of MDA rounds but not with MDA coverage. The upper confidence limit of antigenemia and Mf infection was above the critical cut-off value in hotspots of all selected endemic districts. However, none of the vector mosquitoes, such as Culex quinquefasciatus, was found to be infected with any larval stage of filarial nematode.

Conclusions: The result showed an increase in antigenemia and Mf prevalence in high baseline prevalence areas with fewer MDA rounds. Lack of correlation between filarial infection in humans and xenomonitoring could be low sensitivity of xenomonitoring by microscopy. TAS-based assessment of antigenemia in children for stopping MDA can be supplemented with molecular xenomonitoring in hotspots.

Introduction: Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium parasite and transmitted to humans by infected female Anopheles mosquito. Several studies have explored community knowledge of malaria. However, despite the remarkable proportions of asymptomatic malaria, its awareness remains relatively understudied among the affected communities. Hence, this study aimed to determine the proportion of people with knowledge of asymptomatic malaria in endemic countries and describe their perspective towards malaria control interventions. The findings from this study could contribute to developing tailored interventions in both low and high-transmission settings.

Method: The systematic review protocol was deposited in protocols.io and registered at PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024508104). A systematic literature review was conducted searching for peer-reviewed articles on knowledge of asymptomatic malaria published from 2010 to 2024. Three databases (PubMed (MEDLINE), Google Scholar, and Web of Science) were searched. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). A thematic analysis and a narrative synthesis were conducted to synthesise the results. The research followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

Results: In total, 483 articles were retrieved, and 11 relevant articles were included in the analysis. According to four studies conducted among the general public, the proportion of individuals knowledgeable of asymptomatic malaria ranged from 14.2% to 79.8%. The proportion among health personnel was 88% (one study). The qualitative studies showed varied and lacking knowledge of asymptomatic malaria among the participants, as well as refusal and reluctance to adhere to interventions targeting asymptomatic Plasmodium carriers.

Conclusion: This review showed a lack of knowledge of asymptomatic malaria among endemic communities and a remarkable shortage of studies on related topics. For better malaria control and to accelerate disease elimination, education on asymptomatic malaria would be necessary. Given the limited number of studies, further research on knowledge of asymptomatic malaria would be crucial in various malaria-endemic areas to provide evidence for tailored interventions.

Objective: This study aimed to identify diagnostic biomarkers for keloid and explore potential therapeutic agents from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) by integrating network pharmacology approaches. Specifically, we sought to uncover key molecular targets for Aloe vera and validate their roles in keloid pathogenesis.

Methods: We integrated keloid transcriptome datasets (GSE218007 and GSE237752) by merging GEO data, and identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional enrichment analysis (GO, GSEA) and machine learning approaches were applied to select diagnostic biomarkers. Candidate genes were validated via Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves in training and independent cohorts (GSE44270). PPI networks and Cytohubba algorithms identified hub genes, while TCMSP-screened compounds from Aloe vera were docked with targets using molecular docking.

Results: 91 Identified DEGs enriched in fibrosis-related pathways. Machine learning prioritized two diagnostic biomarkers: AMPH and TNFRSF9 (AUC > 0.85 in training/testing). PPI analysis revealed IL6 as a hub gene. Aloe vera-derived quercetin targeted HAS2 and IL6 (both P < 0.05 in validation), with molecular docking confirming stable binding (binding energy <-7 kcal/mol). IL6 emerged as both a key network hub and a therapeutic target, linking keloid and TCM mechanisms.

Conclusion: AMPH and TNFRSF9 are promising diagnostic biomarkers for keloid, while quercetin from Aloe vera targets HAS2 and IL6, offering therapeutic potential. The dual role of IL6 underscores its centrality in keloid pathogenesis, connecting bioinformatics predictions with TCM pharmacology. This study provides a foundation for clinical prediction and targeted treatment strategies.

Background: Diabetes mellitus involves complex pathogenesis requiring multi-target interventions. Citrus reticulata 'Dahongpao' from Chongqing exhibits anti-diabetic potential, but its mechanisms remain elusive.

Methods: We employed an integrative strategy: GC-MS identified 82 compounds (96.61% coverage), dominated by D-limonene (62.48%). Network pharmacology revealed 36 diabetes-related targets. Molecular docking prioritized ligands (thymol: -6.8 kcal/mol with FABP1; n-hexadecanoic acid: -6.7 kcal/mol with PTGS2). Critical validation was achieved via 100-ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and MM-GBSA binding free energy calculations.

Results: MD simulations demonstrated structural stability (RMSD < 2.5 Å) for core complexes (e.g., CYP19A1/thymol). MM-GBSA quantified robust binding for FABP1/dodecanoic acid (-43.26 kcal/mol) and PTGS2/n-hexadecanoic acid (-43.93 kcal/mol), driven by van der Waals forces. Hydrogen bond dynamics revealed persistent interactions (e.g., thymol-THR102 in FABP1), while RMSF highlighted ligand-induced flexibility in fatty acids. Pathway analysis implicated PPAR signaling and insulin resistance.

Conclusion: Citrus reticulata 'Dahongpao' essential oil combats diabetes through synergistic multi-target modulation, validated by dynamic ligand-protein stability and energetics. This study presents an in silico framework that integrates phytochemical profiling and computational analyses to facilitate natural product drug discovery.

Background: In tropical to subtropical regions, centipede bites may prompt medical attention, with manifestations largely reflecting venom-related discomfort, although infections, including rare fatal necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI), have been reported. However, no reports are available on the commensal bacteria on centipede forcipules.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate bacterial species residing on and in centipede forcipules and their potential role in post-bite infections.

Methods: Nine Scolopendra mutilans, three Scolopendra japonica, and two Bothropolys rugosus were collected from three regions in Japan. The bacterial composition of their forcipules was analyzed using 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene sequencing and microbiome analysis.

Findings: A diverse bacterial community was observed on the centipede forcipules. Among the NSTI-associated genera examined (Escherichia, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus), only Staphylococcus was identified as a minor population.

Conclusion: This study provides the first evidence that some bacteria found on centipede forcipules have been previously isolated from centipede bite infections. The risk of infection from bacteria on centipede forcipules during a centipede bite appears low. However, the presence of diverse bacterial species emphasizes the importance of thoroughly cleaning centipede bite wounds to prevent secondary infection.

Despite representing a disproportionately high percentage of new HIV diagnoses in France annually, women who have migrated from Sub-Saharan Africa (WMSSA) remain underserved by HIV prevention strategies, including Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). This study aimed to understand healthcare providers' experiences and attitudes toward PrEP delivery to WMSSA within family planning centers (FPCs) of the Paris region in France. We conducted a web-based cross-sectional survey from February to June 2024 to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of providers in FPCs in Paris and Seine-Saint-Denis (SSD) County. The survey link was emailed to FPC providers via their departmental mailing lists. Of the 284 providers who were contacted, 64 completed the survey (response rate of 23%). Respondents were predominantly women (95%), with a median age of 44 (IQR 35-53) and a median of 17.5 (IQR 10-26) years of professional experience. They worked as physicians (44%), midwives (34%), or nurses (22%), primarily in FPCs within SSD County (77%). All providers had heard of PrEP; 42% had already discussed it with a client; 28% reported PrEP prescriptions being offered in their FPC; and 21% had already prescribed it for a woman. Among participants, 42% had received PrEP training, and 53% rated their overall PrEP knowledge as good or very good. About one-third of providers reported feeling uncomfortable discussing or prescribing PrEP to women. The top three barriers to PrEP implementation were the lack of PrEP awareness among clients (32%), inadequate provider training (21%), and the limited number of PrEP prescribers in FPCs (21%). Providers endorsed multiple interventions to increase PrEP delivery, including PrEP training, educational materials, and policy shifts to broaden prescriber roles. FPC providers in Paris and SSD County have limited experience in delivering PrEP to women. Several facilitators were identified to inform PrEP implementation strategies at the provider, client and structural levels.

Cardiovascular disease has become the leading cause of death. It is the common goal for researchers worldwide to develop small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) which could meet clinical needs. In this study, PLGA@PCL core-shell structural fibrous SDVGs was fabricated by coaxial electrospinning process, and then the surface heparinization of the vascular material was carried out after H2N-PEG-NH2 fixed on sodium hydroxide-treated electro-spun PCL tubes. Finally, the long-term patency and tissue regeneration of the grafts were evaluated in vivo through the rabbit carotid artery replacement model. The results indicate that the heparin-modified PLGA@PCL core-shell structural fibrous SDVGs achieved long-term patency and the arrangement of collagen and elastin in the neointima was similar to the native vessel in the rabbits after 9 months. After 3 months postoperatively, endothelialization was almost complete, and vascular calcification was also observed. It can be concluded that surface heparinization is a feasible modification method for in situ tissue-engineered vascular grafts, and controlling the occurrence of vascular calcification is another important issue to be solved in the development of SDVGs, and it is also the focus of our next research work.

Background: The skeletal muscles and kidneys are frequently affected during critical illness; however, their crosstalk remains poorly explored, especially in the long-term evolution. Therefore, we investigated the crosstalk between skeletal muscle and kidney function in COVID-19 survivors.

Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of a prospective cohort study with survivors of moderate to severe COVID-19 hospitalization. Skeletal muscle assessments included handgrip strength, calf circumference, ultrasound-measured quadriceps thickness, and gait speed test. Sarcopenia was diagnosed by modified EWGSOP2 (low handgrip strength plus low ultrasound-measured quadriceps thickness). Kidney function was assessed by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), and urine sediment analysis. Abnormal kidney function was defined as an eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73m2, albuminuria (≥30 mg/g), and/or leukocyturia or hematuria.

Results: A total of 734 survivors (46% female, 43% ≥ 60 years, 35% with diabetes) were assessed 7 ± 2 months post-hospital discharge. Sarcopenia was diagnosed in 21.4% of the cohort. Positive significant associations with eGFR were observed for calf circumference (β = 0.42 ml/min/1.73m2, 95%CI: 0.06 to 0.78) and thicknesses (mm) of rectus femoris (β = 0.47, 95%CI: 0.01 to 0.94) and vastus intermedius (β = 0.55, 95%CI: 0.14 to 0.96). None of the skeletal muscle parameters were associated with UACR (mg/g). Survivors with sarcopenia had lower eGFR (‒5.8 ml/min/1.73m2, 95%CI: ‒10.8 to ‒0.9), but similar frequencies of low eGFR (24% vs. 18%; p = 0.137), albuminuria (27% vs. 31%; p = 0.434) and abnormal urine sediment (17% vs. 22%; p = 0.217) as compared to those without sarcopenia. Sarcopenia was not associated with higher odds of low eGFR, albuminuria, or abnormal urine sediment.

Conclusions: In survivors of moderate to severe COVID-19 hospitalization, skeletal muscle mass was associated with eGFR, whereas sarcopenia per se was not independently associated with poor kidney function. These findings suggest the existence of a skeletal muscle-kidney crosstalk in this population.