Scopus 2025

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    Effects of a virtual supportive program on the knowledge of mothers of preterm infants and their bonding
    (2025-01-01) Pusri S.; Payakkaraung S.; Thampanichawat W.; Pusri S.; Mahidol University
    This quasi-experimental study examined the effect of a virtual supportive program on knowledge among mothers of preterm infants and their bond. Mothers of preterm infants are at risk of becoming emotionally detached from their infants because of immediate separation and the lack of support during the early postpartum period, especially in mothers who cannot visit their infant regularly. To the best of our knowledge, no study in Thailand has examined the effects of virtual support for these mothers, as most scholars have focused on promoting mother–infant interaction to improve bonding and enhancing mothers’ knowledge about their infant before discharge. This study recruited 74 mothers with preterm infants receiving neonatal intensive and intermediate care in Thailand. The participants were matched to mothers according to their infants’ gestational ages and assigned into the following two groups: experimental group receiving virtual support, and control group receiving routine care. The results showed that the virtual supportive program significantly improved mothers’ knowledge on preterm infants’ cues and maternal roles as well as mother–infant bonding. Consistent support during the first week of visitation was essential, especially in providing information about premature infants and emotional support, to improve mother–infant bonding.
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    A prospective cohort study on effects of mandibular setback with or without maxillary advancement for skeletal class III malocclusion on sleep-related respiratory parameters
    (2025-05-01) Patharakorn R.; Saengfai N.N.; Chaweewannakorn C.; Boonpratham S.; Satravaha Y.; Peanchitlertkajorn S.; Patharakorn R.; Mahidol University
    Purpose: This study aimed to investigate changes in sleep-related respiratory parameters before and after orthognathic surgery in patients with skeletal class III malocclusion. Methods: Adults with skeletal class III malocclusion and treated with isolated mandibular setback or bimaxillary surgery (maxillary advancement and mandibular setback) were recruited. Sleep-related respiratory parameters were obtained with type III sleep study. Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) was also recorded. The pre- and post-operative (6 months) data were compared. Correlations between these changes and pre-operative characteristics were analyzed. Subjects were categorized into three groups based on changes in the respiratory event index (REI) and 3% oxygen desaturation index: Δ ≤ -2.5, -2.5 < Δ < 2.5, and Δ ≥ 2.5. Amounts of surgical movement and pre-surgical parameters were compared among the 3 groups. Results: Thirty patients with an average age of 25.4 ± 5.0 years were recruited. Eleven patients underwent isolated mandibular setbacks while nineteen received bimaxillary surgery. Pre- and post-operative sleep-related respiratory parameters were not significantly different in the total samples, and when analyzed separately according to surgical procedures. Pre-operative ESS were correlated with the changes in REI (p = 0.01), average blood oxygen levels (p = 0.01), and snoring percentage (p = 0.04). Additionally, this study found that patients with a significant decrease in REI (ΔREI ≤ -2.5) after surgery had significantly higher pre-operative REI (6.2 events/hour) compared to those with minor REI changes (2.6 events/hour). Conclusion: There was no significant change in sleep-related respiratory parameters following mandibular setbacks with or without maxillary advancement in this study. Trail registered: This study was retrospectively registered and approved on February 11, 2025, under registration number TCTR20250211002.
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    AMPK in Intestinal Health and Disease: A Multifaceted Therapeutic Target for Metabolic and Inflammatory Disorders
    (2025-01-01) Yibcharoenporn C.; Muanprasat C.; Moonwiriyakit A.; Satitsri S.; Pathomthongtaweechai N.; Yibcharoenporn C.; Mahidol University
    The intestines play essential roles in nutrient absorption and immune function and help maintain a protective barrier. Disruptions to its function can result in various diseases, including metabolic disorders, inflammation, and cancer. As a key regulator of cellular energy levels, 5’-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is essential for intestinal health. Beyond its established metabolic role, emerging evidence suggests that AMPK exerts profound effects on intestinal cell physiology, influencing cell proliferation and differentiation, inflammation, autophagy, barrier integrity, and smooth muscle contractility. Here, we explore the structure and regulation of AMPK, as well as its diverse roles in intestinal diseases and potential as a therapeutic target. Our findings reveal that AMPK is a multifaceted regulator of intestinal health, modulating various cellular processes and intestinal diseases. It plays a dual role in cancer, acting as both a tumor suppressor and promoter, and it regulates inflammatory pathways, autophagy, tight junction formation, and smooth muscle contractility. Both natural and synthetic AMPK activators offer promise as therapeutic agents. This review of AMPK’s mechanisms and activators offers valuable insights for developing novel therapies for intestinal disorders. Further research is needed to fully define AMPK’s roles and therapeutic potential.
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    The effects of sexuality education program on sexual quality of life among patients following coronary artery bypass graft
    (2025-12-01) Oeychanai A.; Tankumpuan T.; Wanitkun N.; Tocharoenchok T.; Oeychanai A.; Mahidol University
    Patients who undergo coronary artery bypass grafting surgery rarely receive information or have discussions regarding sexual quality of life with their healthcare providers. This quasi-experimental study aimed to assess the effectiveness of sexuality education programs on sexual quality of life following coronary artery bypass grafting surgery in Thailand. The experimental group, consisting of 30 participants, received sexual education, while a control group of 30 participants received routine care. The primary outcome measured was sexual quality of life, evaluated both before and after the intervention. An independent samples t-test was utilized to compare outcomes between the two groups, and a paired t-test was employed to assess changes within the intervention group. The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference in sexual quality of life between the groups (t = 3.47, p = 0.001). Moreover, the sexual quality of life score increased significantly in the intervention group (t = 4.52, p < 0.001), while no significant changes were observed in the control group (t = 0.41, p = 0.688). These findings underscore the positive impact of sexuality education programs on improving sexual quality of life following coronary artery bypass grafting. It is essential for healthcare providers to incorporate health education for patients prior to hospital discharge and to monitor sexual quality of life during follow-up visits.
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    Optimization of the culture medium for an iron-sensitive oleaginous yeast, Rhodotorula toruloides NBRC 0559, through functional iron deficiency
    (2025-01-01) Kim M.; Tanaka Y.; Kajiura H.; Misaki R.; Fujiyama K.; Kim M.; Mahidol University
    A complete iron deficiency in iron-sensitive oleaginous yeast showed insufficient biomass, resulting in a lower lipid amount, although lipid accumulation was greater compared to deficiency in other ions. In this study, the effect of functional iron deficiency on lipid production on Rhodotorula toruloides NBRC 0559 was examined. Two supplements, an iron-added (growth) supplement and an iron-free (lipid-producing) supplement were tested for detecting functional iron deficiency. The addition of iron-added supplement increased the biomass by 1.5-fold. Furthermore, the addition of iron-free supplement stimulated the growth of R. toruloides NBRC 0559 without loss of biomass (indeed, the biomass increased 1.2-fold) while also resulting in a deficiency of the iron needed for improved growth. Through iron-free supplement, the functional iron starvation effect resulted in improved lipid yield (1.7-fold) and an improved ratio of oleic acid (1.2-fold), which is considered an appropriate material for biodiesel, compared to the non-supplement-treated medium. Moreover, functional iron deficiency led to a 3.4-fold increase in the oleic acid rate compared to when all iron was completely removed from the medium. This study presents the effects and importance of iron in improving biomass and lipid production through the functional iron deficiency.
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    Editorial: Rodent-borne diseases: “One Health” perspectives
    (2025-01-01) Duong V.; Morand S.; Buchy P.; Duong V.; Mahidol University
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    Early norepinephrine for patients with septic shock: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis
    (2025-12-01) Shi R.; Braïk R.; Monnet X.; Gu W.J.; Ospina-Tascon G.; Permpikul C.; Djebbour M.; Soumare A.; Agaleridis V.; Lai C.; Shi R.; Mahidol University
    Background: The optimal timing for initiating norepinephrine in septic shock is debated. This updated systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of early versus delayed norepinephrine initiation on mortality and clinical outcomes in adults with septic shock. Methods: A systematic search in Pubmed, EMbase and the Cochrane Library to identify eligible randomized controlled trials, propensity score matching (PSM) and observational studies that compare early norepinephrine initiation with non-early norepinephrine initiation in patients with acute circulatory failure. The primary outcome was mortality in intensive care unit. Secondary outcomes included intensive care unit length of stay, fluid volume received at 6 h, norepinephrine dose, mechanical ventilation-free days, renal replacement therapy free days, and time to achieve a targeted mean arterial pressure (MAP). Meta-analysis and subgroup analysis were conducted to calculate odds ratio (OR) or mean difference with 95% confidence interval (95%CI) using random-effect model. Trial sequential analysis was conducted to evaluate the conclusiveness of evidence. Results: Ten studies (two RCT, three PSM and five observational studies) involving 4767 patients were included. Early norepinephrine significantly reduced mortality in RCT (OR 0.49, 95%CI 0.25–0.96; I2 = 45%, p = 0.04), pooled RCT and PSM (OR 0.65, 95%CI 0.42–0.99; I2 = 74%, p = 0.05), and observational studies (OR 0.71, 95%CI 0.54–0.94; I2 = 66%). The trial sequential analysis indicated more data are needed. Subgroup analyses showed reduced mortality with early norepinephrine when lactate was ≤ 3mmol/L and administered within 1 h. Secondary outcomes showed a reduced fluid volume at 6h (RCT + PSM: mean difference −502 mL, 95%CI −899 to −106; I2 = 91%, p = 0.01), faster MAP target achievement (RCT + PSM: mean difference −1.30h, 95%CI −1.75 to −0.85; I2 = 0%, p < 0.01), more mechanical ventilation-free days (RCT + PSM: mean difference 3.99 days, 95%CI 2.42–5.57; I2 = 32%, p < 0.01) and smaller cumulative norepinephrine dose (Observational: mean difference –3.44 mcg/kg, 95%CI -6.13 to -0.76; I2 = 0%, p = 0.01) in the early initiation group compare to the non-early initiation group. Conclusion: Early norepinephrine introduction in septic shock is associated with reduced mortality, decreased fluid volume administered at 6 h, faster time to achieve MAP target and more mechanical ventilation-free days. However, the trial sequential analysis indicates that further RCT are still needed to confirm these findings.
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    Vitamin K deficiency bleeding in children with cholestatic liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    (2025-03-01) Sakwit A.; Pongphitcha P.; Komvilaisak P.; Ochiai M.; Takahashi D.; Suga S.; Chuansumrit A.; Betensky M.; Pereira S.P.; Afzal A.; van Ommen C.H.; Goldenberg N.; Rattanasiri S.; Sirachainan N.; Sakwit A.; Mahidol University
    Vitamin K deficiency (VKD) in cholestatic liver disease affects up to 23% of pediatric patients. While several vitamin K (VK) prophylaxis regimens have been proposed, optimal therapeutic strategies remain undefined. The study aimed to identify the most effective VK prophylaxis for children with cholestatic liver disease. We conducted a systematic review of articles focusing on studies of children aged <18 years with cholestatic liver disease who reported outcomes of either VKD or vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) after VK prophylaxis. The articles were sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. A meta-analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of VKD and the efficacy of each prophylactic protocol in preventing VKD/VKDB. The study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD 42021270048). Of the 889 articles, 37 were selected (2 comparative studies, 6 noncomparative studies, and 29 case reports/series). The results from the comparative studies indicated a lower incidence of VKD in the parenteral than that in the oral VK. The meta-analysis of the noncomparative studies showed the prevalence of VKD in high prothrombin induced by vitamin K absence-II group was 56% (95% CI, 45%-68%; I2 = 0.0%; H2 = 1.0; Q test: χ2 = 1.93; P = .38) and a prevalence of VKD in abnormal coagulation test was 10% (95% CI, 5%-14%; I2 = 0%, H2 = 1.0; Q test: χ2 = 0.82; P = .66), respectively. Among the 3 administrative routes, the analysis from case reports/series showed the median onset of VKDB in cholestatic infants was the earliest in the oral (44.5 days; IQR, 13.0-240.0 days) compared with intramuscular (86.0 days; IQR, 36.0-120.0) and intravenous routes and intravenous (97.0 days; IQR, 74.0-120.0 days) VK prophylaxis. Available studies to determine the optimal route of VK administration in children with cholestatic liver disease were limited. The result from the review indicated that parenteral VK demonstrated a noticeable advantage over oral VK for VKD/VKDB prevention in cholestatic children.
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    RD22 as a potential rice variety for space exploration: Investigation the impact of a clinostat-simulated microgravity on seed germination across commercial rice varieties
    (2025-09-01) Krobthong S.; Yingchutrakul Y.; Butkinaree C.; Tantapakul C.; Moung-ngam P.; Boonhaijaroen N.; Aonbangkhen C.; Channumsin S.; Tulyananda T.; Krobthong S.; Mahidol University
    Rice is considered crucial for space farming due to its high caloric content and ability to provide a staple food source, and because it can be genetically modified to optimize growth in controlled environments, making it suitable for the closed-loop life support systems necessary in space habitats. This study explores the viability of cultivating commercial rice varieties in microgravity environments, an essential consideration for space agriculture. We employed a 3-dimensional-clinostat to simulate microgravity conditions and observed the germination process with protein changes of five rice varieties: RD22, RD61, PTT1, KDML105, and RD81. The maximal germination percentage (max-GP) was found to be statistically similar across all varieties. Notably, under microgravity, RD22 and RD61 showed increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, suggesting enhanced oxidative stress. Proteomic analysis, conducted through 10plex-TMT experiments, revealed a balanced ratio of up- and down-regulated proteins in RD22 and RD61. Contrastingly, PTT1, KDML105, and RD81 predominantly showed protein down-regulation. Remarkably, RD22 demonstrated up-regulation of proteins associated with translation factors and cellular differentiation, suggesting a robust adaptive response. Furthermore, the gibberellin (GA3) level in RD22 significantly increased under microgravity compared to normal gravity, potentially contributing to its superior germination and promising growth prospects. Our findings position RD22 as a favorable candidate for space farming, owing to its germination resilience in microgravity and potential for higher yields. This research lays the groundwork for future studies focused on optimizing RD22 cultivation for extraterrestrial agriculture, potentially expanding the horizons of crop production beyond Earth.
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    Cytokine and chemokine kinetics in natural human dengue infection as predictors of disease outcome
    (2025-12-01) Jiravejchakul N.; Chan-in W.; Thuncharoen W.; Pakchotanon P.; Duangchinda T.; Thaloengsok S.; Pitabut N.; Manopwisedjaroen K.; Yingtaweesak T.; Suraamornkul S.; Singhasivanon P.; Sakuntabhai A.; Sungnak W.; Charoensawan V.; Vacharathit V.; Matangkasombut P.; Jiravejchakul N.; Mahidol University
    Dengue is an important tropical disease with considerable global impact. Despite this, there remains an urgent need for reliable biomarkers to predict disease severity, as well as effective antiviral drugs and targeted treatments. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive profiling of 41 plasma mediators in patients with asymptomatic dengue (AD) and symptomatic dengue (SD), which includes mild dengue fever (DF) and severe dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Our findings revealed that the levels of nearly all measured mediators were consistently lower in AD compared to SD patients, suggesting a potential protective cytokine response signature. Time-course cytokine analysis in SD shown significantly elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines associated with inflammation and viral clearance upon the acute phase, while various growth factors were elevated during the convalescence. Notably, we identified elevated IL-15 levels in DHF patients three days before fever subsidence, highlighting its potential as an early prognostic biomarker for severe disease outcomes. Furthermore, prolonged high levels of IL-8 and IP-10 in DHF during the critical period may contribute to dengue immunopathogenesis. This study advances the understanding of cytokine dynamics in the natural course of human dengue infection, providing valuable insights for the development of targeted treatments and prognostic biomarkers.
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    Transcriptome insights into newcastle disease virus-mediated eradication of cholangiocarcinoma cells
    (2025-05-01) Thanyaphoo S.; Sae-Lee C.; Thaopech W.; Amornrit W.; Junking M.; Yenchitsomanus P.T.; Poungvarin N.; Thanyaphoo S.; Mahidol University
    Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) has emerged as a promising oncolytic viral therapy for various human cancers; however, its effectiveness against cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) remains unexplored. This study presents the capability of the lentogenic LaSota strain of NDV to eliminate two CCA cell lines, KKU-055 and KKU-100, as well as the potential molecular mechanisms underlying this effect. Comprehensive transcriptome analysis revealed alterations in gene expression within several pathways in CCA cells following exposure to the LaSota strain NDV, including those involved in TNF-alpha signaling via NF-kB, interferon alpha response, apoptosis, and IL-6/JAK/ STAT3 signaling pathways. We remarkably observed a contrasting alteration in the expression of CXCR4, GRAMD1B, IGFBP4, and TGM2 genes in KKU-055 and KKU-100 cells. In addition, gene network analysis highlighted CCNA2, CDK1, DDX58, DHX58, EXO1, GBP1, IFIH1, IFIT1, IFIT2, IFIT3, IRF7, ISIG15, MX1, OAS1, OAS2, PARP9, TOP2A and XAF1 as potential hub genes influencing the response of CCA cells to NDV LaSota strain. Our findings offer evidence supporting the promise of NDV-based therapies as potential strategies for eliminating CCA cells.
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    Deciphering the structural complexity of esterases in Amycolatopsis eburnea: A comprehensive exploration of solvent accessibility patterns
    (2025-06-01) Sraphet S.; Javadi B.; Sraphet S.; Mahidol University
    Carboxylesterases (CES) are pivotal enzymes in the hydrolysis of carboxylic esters, playing fundamental roles in both biological systems and biotechnological applications. This study investigates CES from the Amycolatopsis genus, characterized by its high GC content and structural complexity. Employing a machine learning-driven de novo modeling approach, we examined the primary sequences, physicochemical attributes, and structural characteristics of 109 CES proteins, including 23 from Amycolatopsis eburnea, which exhibit over 95 % sequence similarity to other species within the genus. Our analysis identified three distinct CES groups based on amino acid composition and molecular weight, with alanine, glycine, and valine as the most abundant residues. The isoelectric points varied from 4.9 to 10.27. Unsupervised agglomerative hierarchical clustering classified the CES into two major clusters, displaying >99.6 % structural similarity based on solvent accessibility. The average solvent-accessible surface area (SASA) was 9750 Å2, with backbone regions exhibiting greater solvent exposure than side chains (7888 Å2 vs. 3037 Å2). Key structural hot spots crucial for enzyme stability and folding were identified, offering potential targets for protein engineering. These findings provide valuable insights into the structural determinants of CES function, enabling rational design strategies to enhance enzyme performance and stability for biotechnological applications.
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    A Nanopower Folded-Cascode EEG Lowpass Filter
    (2025-01-01) Thanapitak S.; Kaewdang K.; Liu X.; Pawarangkoon P.; Thanapitak S.; Mahidol University
    This brief presents a continuous-time lowpass biquadratic cell developed from a folded-cascode OTA operating in the subthreshold region. The proposed cell has been implemented by configuring the OTA in a unity-gain feedback manner and inserting two individual capacitors into the output and internal folding nodes. This allows the proposed biquadratic cell to benefit from the high loop gain that maintains good linearity at passband frequencies well below its cutoff. As an application of this biquadratic cell, a pseudo-differential lowpass filter for electroencephalogram detection is designed and implemented in a 0.18-µm standard CMOS technology. The custom filter occupies a silicon area of 230 µm × 300 µm and operates from a 0.8-V dc supply with 7 nA total current consumption. Multi-chip measurements exhibit the average cut-off frequency at 151.2 Hz, input-referred noise of 35 µVrms, and linear range of 110 mVP. This brief achieves the best FoM to date among recent relevant nano-power filters.
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    Facile, Metal-free, Highly Para-Selective Room Temperature Monobromination of Aniline Analogs
    (2025-04-25) Bovonsombat P.; Hocks A.; Kittithanaluk P.; We J.T.; Khanthapura P.; Choosakoonkriang S.; Srikamhom N.; Ploymanee F.; Bovonsombat P.; Mahidol University
    A highly para-selective, room temperature, direct bromination of aniline and analogs with N-bromosuccinimide is reported herein. Benzylic bromination was not observed in substrates with competing benzylic hydrogens. Cyano, amide, ester, carboxylic acid, methoxy, N-alkyl and N,N-dialkyl groups, morpholine, and piperazine rings were tolerated. Gram-scale reaction was demonstrated with selected substrates. This para-selective bromination methodology was used in our one-pot sequential chlorination and iodination demonstrative synthesis of mixed dihalo- and trihalo-aniline analogs. The ortho-para transition states and the corresponding sigma complexes’ energy differences were determined to account for the high para-selectivity of aniline bromination. Both differences are comparable in values, but the energy difference for the sigma complexes is slightly greater than the energy difference of the transition states.
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    A rare case of native mitral valve infective endocarditis by Lactobacillus jensenii in a healthy young patient
    (2025-06-01) Yinadsawaphan T.; Kulthamrongsri N.; Malone R.M.C.; Surapongpairat S.; Puchongmart C.; Thiravetyan B.; Imwattana K.; Na Witayanan J.; Yinadsawaphan T.; Mahidol University
    Lactobacillus jensenii, a Gram-positive facultative anaerobic bacterium, is part of the normal vaginal microbiome and is occasionally found in fermented foods and probiotics. It is a rare cause of infections, with infective endocarditis (IE) being exceedingly uncommon. We report a case of IE caused by Lactobacillus jensenii in a previously healthy 15-year-old female who presented with progressive dyspnea, fever, and severe mitral regurgitation. Echocardiography revealed a vegetative mass on the anterior mitral leaflet. Blood cultures identified L. jensenii using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight mass spectrometry. Surgical repair confirmed myxomatous degeneration and chronic inflammation of the mitral valve. The patient fully recovered after surgery and a 6-week antibiotic course. A review of 12 reported cases of L. jensenii IE, including our case, shows a predominance in immunocompetent females, possibly due to its role as a vaginal commensal. Most cases involved native valves with underlying pathology facilitating bacterial colonization. An empirical regimen with ampicillin and gentamicin is effective against L. jensenii. A treatment duration of 4-6 weeks is sufficient, with favorable outcomes.
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    The Asia–Oceania consensus: Definitions and diagnostic criteria for sarcopenic obesity
    (2025-01-01) Chen T.P.; Kao H.H.; Ogawa W.; Arai H.; Tahapary D.L.; Assantachai P.; Tham K.W.; Chan D.C.; Yuen M.M.A.; Appannah G.; Fojas M.; Gill T.; Lee M.C.; Saboo B.; Lin C.C.; Kim K.K.; Lin W.Y.; Chen T.P.; Mahidol University
    Objective: The aim of this study was to develop consensus definitions and diagnostic criteria for sarcopenic obesity tailored to Asia-Oceania populations, a condition characterized by reduced skeletal muscle mass and function with excess adipose tissue. Methods: Experts from various fields formed a working group under the Asia–Oceania Association for the Study of Obesity (AOASO) and the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics Asia/Oceania Region (IAGG-AOR). The group convened four meetings, employing the Delphi technique to achieve consensus on diagnostic criteria and management strategies for sarcopenic obesity. Results: The consensus defines sarcopenic obesity with a 3-step algorithm, including screening, diagnosis, and intervention. The screening criteria included BMI and waist circumference for obesity and calf circumference, the SARC-F, and the Finger Ring test for sarcopenia. The diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia include assessments of muscle mass (using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or bioelectrical impedance analysis), muscle strength (handgrip strength), and physical performance (gait speed, Short Physical Performance Battery, or the 5-Times Sit-to-Stand Test). Central obesity is the main concern for the diagnosis of obesity. The working group recommends a combination of dietary consultations, increased physical activity, resistance training, and the potential use of oral nutritional supplements and medications for managing sarcopenic obesity. The primary objective is to increase skeletal muscle mass and reduce adipose tissue mass. Conclusions: The established criteria facilitate early recognition and management of sarcopenic obesity, highlighting the need for tailored interventions. Future research should focus on the long-term outcomes of these interventions and the development of pharmacological treatments.
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    Non-Symmetrical Tetradentate Mixed Halogen Bonding-Hydrogen Bonding Macrocycles for Anion Recognition in Aqueous-Organic Media
    (2025-01-01) Opascharoenboon S.; Vigromsitdet S.; Cheevathanomsak N.; Atirojwanich I.; Tantirungrotechai J.; Sukwattanasinitt M.; Surawatanawong P.; Beer P.D.; Bunchuay T.; Opascharoenboon S.; Mahidol University
    The prevalence of anions in biological systems, the environment, and industrial processes has driven the development of synthetic receptors capable of their selective recognition and detection. As a result of high hydration energy, the diversity in shape, and the pH-dependent nature of anions, such receptors require a highly preorganized binding site decorated with complementary multiple noncovalent interactions to stabilize anion-receptor complexation. In this study, a series of charge-neutral tetradentate macrocycles with non-symmetrical structures containing both halogen bonding (XB) iodotriazole and hydrogen bonding (HB) triazole donors were prepared via a stepwise CuAAC macrocyclization reaction. The non-symmetrical XB/HB macrocycles displayed increased anion binding affinities and contrasting anion selectivities in comparison to a symmetrical all HB macrocycle analogue, even in the presence of water, but still exhibited halide binding less strongly than the analogous all XB macrocycle. As a result of the macrocyclic effect and the number and nature of donor groups, the non-symmetrical XB/HB macrocycles exhibited the largest enhancement of Cl− binding compared to their acyclic XB analogues. DFT computational studies revealed the preferential binding geometry where the halide anion was primarily bound to the XB binding site through two σ-hole interactions at two adjacent iodine sites and supplemented by one H─bond interaction at one of the C─H triazole sites.
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    Molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 and medically important respiratory and gastrointestinal virus pathogens on Thai currency
    (2025-12-01) Niyomdecha N.; Suttasit C.; Boonyont A.; Saita T.; Rodraksa W.; Phanitmas A.; Yamasamit N.; Sangsiriwut K.; Noisumdaeng P.; Niyomdecha N.; Mahidol University
    Fomite-mediated viral transmission through using cash might be a potential risk to human health. Persistence of SARS-CoV-2, and other medically important viruses was investigated. A total of 300 samples (i.e., 150 banknotes and 150 coins) were randomly collected from nineteen fresh markets distributed across seventeen districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Every banknote or coin was entirely swabbed and generated a total of 100 pool samples. Total viral nucleic acid was extracted and subjected for multiplex real-time qRT-PCR using Allplex™ SARS-CoV-2/FluA/FluB/RSV assay and Allplex™ GI-virus assay. The results revealed detection rate of 4% (4/100), and they were only detected in banknote pooled samples. Two samples collected from fish shops tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (2%, 2/100); meanwhile, two samples (2%, 2/100) from pork and chicken shops tested positive for rotavirus A. None of pool samples were detected for influenza A and B viruses, respiratory syncytial virus, norovirus genogroup I and II, adenovirus, astrovirus, and sapovirus. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that rotavirus A belonged to genotype G8; meanwhile, SARS-CoV-2 resembled omicron GRA JN.1 sub variant. Our finding is the first report for demonstrating the presence of SARS-CoV-2 and rotavirus A in Thai banknotes on real-world situation, implying the potential risk to human health and safety.
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    Prevalence of Incidental Normocephalic Craniosynostosis: Findings From a Large Cohort Study
    (2025-01-01) Matwatthanakit K.; Poungjantaradej N.; Charernsook S.; Ngamsombat C.; Chaisrisawadisuk S.; Matwatthanakit K.; Mahidol University
    Craniosynostosis involves premature fusion of cranial sutures, potentially causing craniofacial deformities and increased intracranial pressure. However, emerging evidence of normocephalic sagittal craniosynostosis challenges traditional surgical management paradigms. In a retrospective cross-sectional study (2012-2022) at Siriraj Hospital, a tertiary referral centre in Thailand, the authors examined cranial computed tomography scans of 1364 patients aged 1 to 20 years. Three-dimensional imaging analyses were used to assess suture fusion, and demographic and clinical data were collected. Statistical methods were used to evaluate the prevalence and ensure reliability of the findings. Complete fusion was rare: coronal (1/1364; 0.007%), sagittal (19/1364; 1.39%), lambdoid (2/1364; 0.15%), and squamosal (24/1364; 1.76%). Partial fusion occurred in the sagittal (39/1364; 2.86%), squamosal (42/1364; 3.08%), coronal (22/1364; 1.61%), and lambdoid (22/1364; 1.61%) sutures. Notably, these patients exhibited normocephalic morphology, suggesting that certain instances of early suture fusion may represent normal anatomical variants rather than pathologic synostosis. Normocephalic craniosynostosis involving coronal, sagittal, lambdoid, and squamosal sutures was detected within this contemporary Thai cohort. These findings underscore the need for meticulous clinical assessments to distinguish benign variants from true pathologic conditions, thereby informing more nuanced, individualised treatment strategies.
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    Kratom leaf extracts exert hypolipidaemic effects via the modulation of PCSK9 and LDLR pathways in HepG2 cells
    (2025-12-01) Nawaka N.; Lertcanawanichakul M.; Porntadavity S.; Pussadhamma B.; Jeenduang N.; Nawaka N.; Mahidol University
    Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa (Korth.) Havil.) has been reported to reduce serum lipids. However, the molecular mechanism underlying hypolipidaemic effect of kratom is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of kratom leaf extracts on hypolipidaemia via the expression of LDLR and PCSK9 in HepG2 cells. Real-time RT-PCR, Western blotting, and flow cytometry analyses revealed that kratom leaf extracts from red-vein and white-vein strains increased LDLR protein expression but decreased that of PCSK9 via downregulation of SREBP-2 and HNF-1α. Furthermore, a confocal laser scanning microscope revealed that kratom leaf extracts from both strains increased LDL uptake into HepG2 cells. The bioactive compounds, e.g., mitragynine, quercetin, and rutin, in kratom leaf extracts from both strains were characterized by LC-MS/MS analysis. Mitragynine also significantly increased LDLR protein expression but decreased that of PCSK9. Molecular docking studies demonstrated that mitragynine had the strongest binding affinity for EGF-A domain of LDLR (– 7.57 kcal/mol), whereas quercetin had the strongest binding affinity for PCSK9 (– 8.45 kcal/mol). In conclusion, kratom leaf extracts from red-vein and white-vein strains possessed hypolipidaemic effects by decreased PCSK9 expression and increased LDLR expression through the modulation of SREBP2 and HNF-1α. Therefore, kratom could serve as a potential supplement for ameliorating hypercholesterolemia.