bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness and tolerability of lactic acid vaginal gel compared to oral metronidazole in the treatment of acute symptomatic bacterial vaginosis: a multicenter, randomized-controlled, head-to-head pilot study
Authors: Tidbury Fiona , Brülhart Grégory , Müller Gabriela , Pavicic Elena , Weidlinger Susanna , Eichner Gerrit , von Wolff Michael , Stute Petra
Published: January 2025

Background

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a prevalent vaginal condition among reproductive-age women, characterized by off-white, thin vaginal discharge with a fishy odor. It increases susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). BV involves a shift in vaginal microbiota, with reduced lactobacilli and increased anaerobic bacteria. Standard treatment with oral metronidazole has been shown to have a limited long-term efficacy, possibly due to biofilm persistence. Alternative treatments, such as lactic acid vaginal gel, aim to restore vaginal pH and lactobacilli. This pilot study compares the efficacy and tolerability of lactic acid gel to standard oral metronidazole for acute BV treatment in non-pregnant women.

Methods

A total of 32 women with acute BV were recruited and assigned to either the treatment group (n = 16) where they applied a lactic acid vaginal gel for 12 days, or the control group (n = 16) which received 500 mg oral metronidazole twice daily for seven days. A number of objective and subjective parameters including the Amsel score, the Nugent score and a subjective symptom score were recorded at day 0, three weeks, three months, and six months after the study start.

Results

In the short-term, lactic acid vaginal gel showed inferior clinical (Amsel criteria) and microbiological (Nugent score) cure rates compared to metronidazole. However, it performed equally well regarding subjective symptom improvement and BV recurrence prevention after up to six months.

Conclusion

Lactic acid vaginal gel was generally very well tolerated and showed mixed but promising results as a stand-alone treatment for acute BV.

Trial registration number

NCT02042287 (22.01.2014).
Clinical severity grading of NF2-related schwannomatosis
Authors: Lawson McLean Anna C. , Löschner Denise , Farschtschi Said , Dengler Nora F. , Rosahl Steffen K.
Published: January 2025

Background

NF2-related schwannomatosis (NF2) is associated with various tumors of the central and peripheral nervous system. There is a wide range of disabilities these patients may suffer from and there is no validated clinical classification for disease severity. We propose a clinical classification consisting of three severity grades to assist in patient management.

Methods

Patient records from 168 patients were screened for most common diagnoses with severe impact on everyday tasks, social interactions and life expectancy. Eight main categories were identified. One point was assigned to each category. Three severity grades were differentiated as follows: grade 1 (mild NF2): 0 points; grade 2 (moderate NF2): < 3 points; grade 3 (severe NF2): ≥ 3 points. This grading system was then evaluated with respect to inter-rater reliability and clinical significance.

Results

The patients were grouped according to our new clinical grading system into grade 1 in 48% (n = 80), grade 2 in 43% (n = 72), and grade 3 in 10% of patients (n = 16). There was substantial inter-rater reliability between 3 raters with different levels of clinical experience (Fleiss’ kappa = 0.62). The severity grades correlated significantly with hospitalization, number of operations and dependency on implants (such as cochlear implant, auditory brain-stem implants or ventriculoperitoneal shunts).

Conclusions

Clinical disease severity of NF2 patients is reflected in a simplified and rater-independent score with three grades. The score facilitates communication for medical personnel of varying experience and backgrounds, and adds a clinical tool to decision-making and research.
Impact of dietary supplementation of L-citrulline to meat goats during gestation on reproductive performance
Authors: Newton Makenzie G. , Lopez Arianna N. , Stenhouse Claire , Hissen Karina L. , Connolly Erin D. , Li Xingchi , Zhou Lan , Wu Guoyao , Foxworth William B. , Bazer Fuller W.
Published: January 2025

Background

Meat goat production is a worldwide industry with products such as meat, milk, soap, and fiber being produced. There are approximately 2.6 million meat goats in the United States. For breeding female ruminants, early pregnancy loss is estimated to be 30% within the first month of gestation. Extracellular L-citrulline (a precursor to L-arginine) is not degraded by ruminal microbes due to the lack of uptake. L-Arginine and thus L-citrulline, have beneficial impacts on placentation and, subsequently, fetal-placental development and survival. This study aimed to determine the impact of feeding L-citrulline to meat goats during gestation to improve reproductive success. Meat goats were fed either a control (CON) or L-citrulline (CIT) supplemented diet from d 12 to 82 of gestation. Blood samples were collected and sera were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to quantify the abundance of amino acids. Pregnancy rates were determined on d 30, 61, and 90 of gestation, and litter weight, individual birth weights, and 90 d adjusted weaning weights were collected.

Results

The concentrations of citrulline, ornithine, and arginine were greater in CIT does compared to CON does, but there was no difference in pregnancy rates between CON and CIT does. Birth weight was greater for male kids born as singles when compared to females, but this phenotype was not observed for kids born as twins or triplets. Further, males born to CON does had greater 90 d adjusted weaning weights than females, but this was not observed in the CIT group. Female kids born to CON and CIT Boer goats had heavier 90 d adjusted weaning weights than those born to Spanish or F1 Boer-Spanish does.

Conclusion

This study provides proof of concept that feeding dietary L-citrulline increases concentrations of citrulline and arginine in blood of gestating meat goats. However, further studies are needed to understand the cellular mechanisms impacted by feeding this supplement. Regardless, this study demonstrated that feeding L-citrulline has the potential to increase reproductive performance in gestating ruminants.
A novel glucan from Sparassis latifolia: purification, structural characterization and protective effect on gastric mucosal cells against ethanol-induced damage
Authors: Wang Mengyu , Lv Guoying , Zhao Ruimeng , Cai Weiming , Zhang Zuofa
Published: January 2025

Sparassis latifolia is a rare edible mushroom with many pharmacological activities. Active screening found that the crude polysaccharide from this mushroom (SLP) exhibited noticeable gastroprotective effects. However, it remains unclear regarding the underlying regulatory mechanism of the gastroprotective effects of SLP. A novel polysaccharide SLP-2 was purified from the fruiting bodies of S. latifolia, and characterized using FT-IR, HPAEC, SEM, SEC–MALLS-RI, methylation, and NMR analysis. Structural characterization revealed that the backbone of SLP-2 was mainly composed of → 4)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → , → 3)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → and → 3,4)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → . The branched chain primarily consisted of β-D-Glcp-(1 → linked to the sugar residue → 3, 6)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → at the O-6 position and → 3,4)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → at the O-4 position. Physiological experimental results demonstrated that SLP-2 effectively protected GES-1 cells against ethanol-induced damage by suppressing intracellular ROS levels and cell apoptosis while elevating the activities of SOD and CAT enzymes. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis revealed molecular mechanisms underlying the gastroprotective effect of SLP-2, with KEGG enrichment suggesting associations with ferroptosis, TNF, PI3K–Akt, MAPK and IL-17 signaling pathways. These findings provide a technological foundation for valuable utilization of S. latifolia and emphasize the potential application of SLP-2 in repairing gastric mucosal injuries.

Graphical Abstract
Ventricular fibrillation caused by massive right coronary air embolism: a case report
Authors: Zhang Hongcai , Huang Ai-ling , Nie Qian , Sattar Haseeb , Wen Xie
Published: January 2025

Background

Coronary air embolism is a rare but severe complication of coronary interventions.

Case presentation

We present a case of a massive air embolism in the right coronary artery during percutaneous coronary intervention, resulting in ventricular fibrillation. The patient was successfully resuscitated with electric defibrillation, leading to full recovery and TIMI 3 coronary flow. The final fractional flow reserve showed no residual coronary microvascular dysfunction.

Conclusion

Our finding suggests that inducing strong myocardial contractions with a cardioverter defibrillator may effectively disperse large air emboli and restore coronary circulation.
Evaluatıon of contrast enhancement intensity, pattern, and kinetics of breast lesions on contrast-enhanced spectral mammography
Authors: Bekirçavuşoğlu Ayşe Füsun , Kul Sibel , Bekirçavuşoğlu Süleyman , Atasoy Dilara , Erkan Merve
Published: January 2025

Background

Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) is a new and promising imaging modality that improves tumor visibility through tumor contrast enhancement caused by malignant neovascularization. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is based on the principle that hypervascular lesions are stained more intensely with contrast material than the breast glandular tissue. Currently, contrast enhancement in contrast-enhanced mammography is used only as a tumor marker, and it is unclear whether it is possible to analyze the amount, pattern, and kinetics of contrast enhancement using this technique and the contribution of such analyses to the diagnostic process.

Objective

To investigate the contribution of qualitative and semiquantitative data obtained from contrast-enhanced spectral mammography images to benign-malignant differentiation and their relationship with prognostic factors.

Methods

This retrospective study included 64 patients who were treated between 2015 and 2019. A pathological breast craniocaudal (CC) radiograph was obtained 2 min after contrast. Following the standard procedure, pathological breast CC radiography was performed for approximately 6 min. The amount of contrast enhancement, contrast enhancement patterns, and kinetics of the breast lesions were analyzed qualitatively and/or semiquantitatively using contrast-enhanced mammography images. The contribution of the evaluated radiological parameters to the benign-malignant differentiation of tumors and their relationship with histopathological prognostic markers was also evaluated.

Results

Nine benign and 55 malignant cases were identified in this study. The results showed that malignant tumors had a higher average contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) than benign tumors, and a strong correlation was observed between semiquantitative and qualitative contrast amounts(R > 0.564, p ≤ 0.001). Benign tumors exhibited persistent enhancement, whereas malignant tumors showed plateau and washout enhancement patterns. Additionally, estrogen receptor (ER) positivity and tumor grade were linearly related to the degree of late-phase enhancement in malignant tumors. Patients with a high Ki-67 proliferation index were more likely to exhibit type-3 curves.

Conclusions

Kinetic patterns and enhancement results of CESM can be utilized in the characterization of masses and may serve as a prognostic factor.
Validity of serum autotaxin and Doppler ultrasound as noninvasive markers of esophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Wazzan Doaa El , El-Shayeb Ayman F. , Hamouda Soraya , Shafei Mohamed El , Degheidy Akram A. , Salem Basma , Adel Mohamed
Published: January 2025

Background

Identification of noninvasive predictors of esophageal varices will permit to carry out endoscopy in selected groups of patients, thus avoiding unnecessary intervention as well as not missing patients at high risk of bleeding. The aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy of serum autotaxin and Doppler ultrasound parameters as noninvasive predictors in determining the presence and severity of esophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Results

In our prospective study, 100 newly diagnosed naïve patients with liver cirrhosis and with no past history of upper gastrointestinal bleeding were enrolled. Serum autotaxin was significantly higher among patients with esophageal varices than those without varices (p < 0.001). Furthermore, among patients with varices, it was significantly higher in those with grade IV than grades I, II, and III (p < 0.001). Significant positive correlation was also observed between serum autotaxin and each of portal vein diameter, flow volume, portal vein velocity, and hepatic congestion index (p < 0.001). Child–Pugh classification, fibrosis-4 (FIB-4), age to platelet index (API), model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), platelet/splenic diameter, portal vein velocity, flow volume, and serum autotaxin were entered in stepwise logistic regression model for prediction of esophageal varices, and serum autotaxin, portal vein velocity, and flow volume were significant in multivariate regression analysis with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 96.25%, 75%, 93.9%, and 83.33%, respectively.

Conclusion

Serum autotaxin levels and Doppler ultrasound parameters serve as important predictors as well as promising non-endoscopic tools for the assessment of esophageal varices (EVs) in cirrhotic patients.
Joint full waveform inversion for time-lapse 4D seismic monitoring
Authors: Zhou Wei , Lumley David , Liu Xu
Published: January 2025

Full waveform inversion (FWI) can be applied to time-lapse (4D) seismic data for subsurface reservoir monitoring. Usually, baseline and monitor velocity models are respectively built through a data fitting process, and the difference of models are used to estimate the time-lapse changes. However, large-scale (or low-wavenumber) velocity structures of deep reservoirs are mainly obtained by fitting the diving waves, which can be unavailable due to limited source-receiver offset apertures. Alternatively, joint full waveform inversion (JFWI) assumes a scale separation in the model space such that low wavenumbers can be recovered from both diving and reflected waves, in addition to high-wavenumber impedance perturbations. We extend JFWI to time-lapse data and improve the sensitivity of waveform inversion approaches to low-wavenumber velocity changes of deep targets. A central-difference strategy is also implemented (CD JFWI), which averages four JFWI velocity models (two baseline and two monitor) to attenuate false changes in the 4D velocity estimate, and which increases the stability of the approach in data fitting. The synthetic 4D SEAM case study shows that CD JFWI followed by 4D FWI leads to a more accurate estimate and better resolution of velocity changes than conventional 4D FWI methods in a reservoir zone that is not penetrated by diving waves.
Datopotamab Deruxtecan in Advanced or Metastatic Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer With Actionable Genomic Alterations: Results From the Phase II TROPION-Lung05 Study
Authors: Sands Jacob , Ahn Myung-Ju , Lisberg Aaron , Cho Byoung Chul , Blumenschein George , Shum Elaine , Pons Tostivint Elvire , Goto Yasushi , Yoh Kiyotaka , Heist Rebecca , Shimizu Junichi , Lee Jong-Seok , Baas Paul , Planchard David , Pérol Maurice , Felip Enriqueta , Su Wu-Chou , Zebger-Gong Hong , Lan Lan , Liu Chelsea , Howarth Paul , Chiaverelli Rachel , Paz-Ares Luis
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Datopotamab deruxtecan (Dato-DXd) is a trophoblast cell-surface antigen-2–directed antibody-drug conjugate with a highly potent topoisomerase I inhibitor payload. The TROPION-Lung05 phase II trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT04484142
) evaluated the safety and clinical activity of Dato-DXd in patients with advanced/metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with actionable genomic alterations progressing on or after targeted therapy and platinum-based chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients received Dato-DXd 6 mg/kg once every 3 weeks. The primary end point was objective response rate (ORR) by blinded independent central review. Secondary end points included duration of response (DOR), safety, tolerability, and survival.

RESULTS

Among 137 patients who received at least 1 dose of Dato-DXd, 71.5% received at least three lines of prior therapies for advanced/metastatic disease. Overall, 56.9% had
EGFR
mutations and 24.8% had
ALK
rearrangements. Median treatment duration was 4.4 months (range, 0.7-20.6). The confirmed ORR was 35.8% (95% CI, 27.8 to 44.4) overall, and 43.6% (95% CI, 32.4 to 55.3) and 23.5% (95% CI, 10.7 to 41.2) in those with
EGFR
mutations and
ALK
rearrangements, respectively. The median DOR was 7.0 months (95% CI, 4.2 to 9.8), and the overall disease control rate was 78.8% (95% CI, 71.0 to 85.3). Grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred in 28.5% of patients. The most common TRAE was stomatitis (preferred term; any grade: 56.2%; grade ≥3: 9.5%). Five (3.6%) patients experienced adjudicated treatment-related interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis, with 1 (0.7%) grade 5 event.

CONCLUSION

Encouraging and durable antitumor activity was observed with Dato-DXd in this heavily pretreated advanced/metastatic NSCLC population with actionable genomic alterations. The rate of treatment-related grade ≥3 toxicities was comparable with previous observations, and no new safety signals were observed.
PDE11A Is a Phenotype Modulator of Primary Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia: Results of a 334-Patient Series
Authors: Vaduva Patricia , Bouys Lucas , Jouinot Anne , Espiard Stephanie , Chansavang Albain , Berthon Annabel , Néou Mario , Vaczlavik Anna , Violon Florian , Charchar Helaine , Kroiss Matthias , Raverot Gerald , Lasolle Helene , Guignat Laurence , Libé Rossella , Assié Guillaume , Tabarin Antoine , Kamenicky Peter , Pasmant Eric , Fragoso Maria , Stratakis Constantine , Ragazzon Bruno , Bertherat Jérôme
Published: January 2025

Context

Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH), the most common cause of Cushing syndrome due to bilateral nodules, is a heterogeneous disease at the clinical, hormonal, and morphological levels. ARMC5-inactivating pathogenic variants are causative of PBMAH, and rare variants of PDE11A have been associated with PBMAH.

Objective

The aim of this study, on a large cohort of individuals with PBMAH from Europe and America, was to study the ARMC5 and PDE11A genotype to determine the genotype/phenotype correlation and to investigate the hypothesis that PDE11A could be a modifying gene of the adrenal phenotype.

Methods

Leukocyte DNA of 354 PBMAH index cases was sequenced for ARMC5 and PDE11A genes by next-generation sequencing. Phenotypic characteristics of 334 of these patients were analyzed to study the genotype/phenotype correlations.

Results

Seven out of 16 PDE11A variants were considered damaging according to in silico predictions: 6 missense variants (p.Tyr727Cys, p.Met623Arg, p.Tyr658Cys, p.Ag867Trp, p.Asn298Ser, p.Glu840Lys) and 1 stop-gain variant (p.Arg307Ter). In the cohort, 11.4% of patients had one of these variants and 19.2% had ARMC5-pathogenic variants. There was no statistically significant difference in the distribution of PDE11A-damaging variants according to ARMC5 status (P = .83; OR = 0.79; 95% CI, 0.26-2.03) nor in the distribution of ARMC5 pathogenic variants according to PDE11A status (P = .83; OR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.27-2.04). Patients with PDE11A-damaging variants had lower urinary free cortisol (0.7 vs 1.25 upper limit of normal; P = .0002), midnight plasma cortisol (157.81 vs 222.19 nmol/L, P = .016), and number of adrenal nodules (3.46 vs 4.74; P = .048) compared to PDE11A wild-type patients. Patients with ARMC5-pathogenic variants had a more severe phenotype with more frequent comorbidities and were more often treated by adrenalectomy (60%).

Conclusion

PDE11A appears to be a modulator of PBMAH phenotype, damaging variants being associated with an attenuated form. This may contribute to the heterogeneity of PBMAH and could affect patient management.
Pain Management in Brugada Syndrome: A Case Report and Review
Authors: Yin Kai Sheng Ashton , Leong Xin Yu Adeline
Published: January 2025

Brugada syndrome is a rare condition that increases the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Although there are existing anesthesia recommendations for patients with Brugada syndrome, guidance on pain management is limited. We present a novel approach to pain management in these patients, illustrated by the case of a young woman with Brugada syndrome who underwent ropivacaine peripheral nerve infusion and intravenous ketamine infusion for acute-on-chronic left upper limb pain. She received perioperative multimodal analgesia, which included neuropathic agents (pregabalin, duloxetine), and opioids (morphine, codeine). Our findings contribute to a greater understanding of safe analgesic practices for patients with Brugada syndrome.
Causes of Different Force-Velocity Relationships in Sprint Running Depending on Horizontal Loads and Profiling Methods
Authors: Sugisaki Norihide , Tsuchie Hiroyasu , Takai Yohei , Kobayashi Kai , Yoshimoto Takaya , Kanehisa Hiroaki
Published: January 2025

Purpose

We aimed to clarify how the horizontal force-velocity (Fv
h) relationship during over-ground sprint running differs with horizontal resistance loads and profiling methods (multiple- and single-trial methods).

Methods

Twelve males performed sprint running (one unresisted and five resisted) using a motorized loading device. During the trials, the ground reaction forces at every step were obtained using a 50 m force plate system. The step-averaged Fv
h relationships were then determined using single- and multiple-trial methods with linear and curvilinear models. The differences in Fv
h parameters between loading conditions and between profiling methods, as well as the goodness of fit of the regression models to the measured data, were examined.

Results

We found that Fv
h plots in each loading condition almost overlapped during acceleration, whereas, the horizontal forces deviated toward a lower value around maximal velocity; the linear Fv
h parameters derived using the single-trial method had a load-dependency; the linear Fv
h relationship derived from the multiple-trial method had a bias toward lower force values with less negative slopes compared with the single-trial method; the curvilinear models fitted the pooled data of all loading conditions better than the linear model; and the Fv
h relationship within the velocity range of unresisted sprinting was almost linear.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that the reported load-dependency of Fv
h parameters is mainly due to large horizontal forces at very low velocities in resisted sprinting, and the profiling method-dependency is mainly due to the attenuation of horizontal force around the maximal velocity of each loading condition. Factors of deviations from a linear Fv
h relationship in horizontal force and the validity and usefulness of nonlinear models require further investigation.
Digital twin enhanced agile design of ship pipeline systems
Authors: Wang Xin , Shan Xiaofen , Cui Kang , Zhang Zhinan
Published: January 2025

The shipbuilding industry plays a pivotal role in national strategic security and economic development, and one critical challenge is the pipeline layout design problem. It predominantly relies on designers’ subjective experience, and it is marked by a lack of efficient knowledge sharing and the absence of smart pipe routing algorithms. This paper proposes an agile design system, which integrates ship pipeline design knowledge management, semi-automatic design that involves frequent interaction with human designers, and automatic rule checking. The framework is refined by digital twin concepts, facilitating close collaboration between physical and digital systems. The paradigm shift holds the potential to substantially enhance the efficiency of ship pipeline layout design, while concurrently reducing the reliance on manual labor.
El testamento vital como expresión de la autonomía del paciente
Authors: Ramos Emilia María Santana
Published: January 2025

La consideración sobre el derecho a una “muerte digna” ha sido objeto de números debates sobre si se configura como un derecho personal o si se debe reconocer como un auténtico derecho fundamental. El presente trabajo, pretende visualizar una nueva situación que es directamente derivable de la dignidad y su más que necesario reconocimiento como soporte fundamental en el reconocimiento del derecho personal y la obligación por parte de las instituciones sanitarias de garantizar el pleno desarrollo personal como garantía de la libertad que debe ostentar toda persona en la toma de sus decisiones. La importancia que asume la autonomía de la voluntad, la dignidad y la libertad testamento vital recae sobre el principio maestro del libre desarrollo de la personalidad.
A Review on the Phenomenon of Synchronization in EEG Signals of Humans and its Application in Detection of Neurological Disorders
Authors: Kidwai Mohd Suhaib , Siddiqui Mohd. Maroof
Published: January 2025

Numerous physical and biological systems demonstrate synchronization phenomena. Early investigations focused on the synchronization of dual pendulum tickers connected by a common shaft (it was within this system that Huygens discovered synchronization), the synchronized flashing of fireflies, or the interactions of adjacent channels capable of effectively annihilating one another. The exploration of chaotic synchronization did not gain significant attraction until the 1980s. The synchronization pattern was observed in the biological signals and it was observed through studies that these patterns show changes with respect to change in the body activities. So further studies were being conducted to refine and record these signals and convert them inti human readable form. Later on, these synchronization patterns in the recorded bio signals like EEG (Electroencephalogram), ECG (Electrocardiogram) etc. were used for detection of neurological disorders. This study discusses about the works related to the detection of neurological disorders with the help of synchronization in the EEG signals that are recorded from brain and gives a clear view how EEG signals and their synchronization has been used time and again for studying and diagnosing disorders like epilepsy, bruxism etc.
Bridging the Gap: The Promise and Pitfalls of Mobile Health Apps for Depression Management
Authors: Noor Siti Nor Aqilah Mohd , Ibrahim Umar Idris , Jamshed Shazia , Ahmad Nurulumi , Jamil Aslinda , Yahaya Rosliza , Lua Pei Lin
Published: January 2025

Depression remains a major global health crisis, impacting millions worldwide. The swift progression of digital health technology has intensified interest in employing mobile health (mHealth) applications to tackle mental health concerns, particularly depression. mHealth applications for depression management constitute a groundbreaking method, providing globally scalable and accessible solutions that can significantly enhance mental health care. This study sought to assess the existing evidence about the utilization and effectiveness of mHealth applications in the management of depressive symptoms. Studies were identified by literature searches in three electronic databases (Scopus, Science Direct, and PubMed) from 2000 to 2024. Studies were chosen according to a set of inclusion criteria and reviewed narratively (n = 21). Research indicates that six studies investigated the prevalence of depression, whereas twelve studies emphasized the function and features of mHealth applications in symptom management. Significant enhancements in mental health outcomes were documented in seven studies (n = 7), showing the efficacy of these programs in engaging users and reducing depressive symptoms. The primary limitations of current mHealth literature are: 1) focus on screening rather than follow-up care; 2) limited accessibility; 3) insufficient user engagement; 4) small sample sizes; 5) absence of cost-effectiveness statistics; and 6) inconsistent app quality. To address these challenges, the focus must be directed toward optimal application design and enhanced accessibility. All these research gaps are crucial to be overcome for advancing evidence-based solutions and empowering the digital health sector to improve mental health outcomes for this cohort.
An AI-based Liver Disease Prediction Model based on Pearson Correlation Feature Selection Method
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Rani Pooja
Published: January 2025

Liver disease is a very critical disease in today's world. There are various types of liver disorders, including some that are brought on by viruses. Detecting liver infections in their early stages is crucial for more effective treatment. An AI-based automated diagnostic model can play a very significant role in detecting liver illness. The main goal of this research is to create an AI based hybrid model utilizing feature selection and classification algorithms to detect liver disease. Three feature selection techniques - Pearson Correlation, Feature Importance using Extra Tree, and Mutual Information Gain are used on the ILPD dataset to identify the relevant features. The Decision Tree (DT), K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN), Random Forest (RF), Adaptive Boosting (Adaboost), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGboost) classifiers have been used with the selected features of the dataset. The performance of models has been evaluated with various performance parameters, namely accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and F-Measure. The combination of the Pearson Correlation algorithm with the Random Forest classifier has shown superior performance compared to other classifiers like DT, KNN, RF, Adaboost, and XGBoost. The finding also depicts that Pearson Correlation algorithm have effectively eliminated irrelevant features from the data set, and the feature selection ratio of Pearson Correlation Algorithm is 80%. This proposed PC-RF model has provided 80% accuracy in identifying liver illness, which is 3% to 8% better accuracy than the other classifiers such as DT, KNN, Adaboost, and XGboost. Additionally, the proposed PC-RF model has achieved 4% to 25% better accuracy over latest state-of-the-art models.
Nutritional Challenges in Paediatric Oncology: Screening and Managing Malnutrition and Sarcopenia
Authors: Mastrangelo Stefano , Romano Alberto , Maurizi Palma , Rizzo Daniela , Attinà Giorgio , Ruggiero Antonio
Published: January 2025

Sarcopenia and malnutrition can coexist in pediatric patients with neoplasia, worsening the patient's prognosis. The classification of primary and secondary sarcopenia may be helpful in clinical practice, as it can help with timely initiation of appropriate and tailored dietary treatments to address it. This review summarizes the current state of the art of assessing skeletal muscle function in children and adolescents with cancer and discusses the role of nutritional interventions in the management of children with cancer. It highlights the urgent need for comprehensive nutritional support and interventions to mitigate the impact of malnutritions on both treatment outcomes and patients' well-being.
Design and Development of Saxagliptin Microparticles for Diabetes
Authors: Atmakuri Lakshmana Rao , Nelapati Jhansi , Vallamkonda Bhaskar , Challa Ranadheer Reddy , Sonti Subrahmanya Sai Malleswara Sharma , Bhuvanagiri Krishna Sudarsana
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the design, development, and evaluation of sustained-release Saxagliptin microparticles, utilizing Eudragit L-100 and Eudragit S-100 as polymers to achieve prolonged drug release. A total of eight formulations were prepared, employing varying drug-to-polymer ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4) for both core and coat materials. This approach facilitated an assessment of the concentration of coating material influenced the drug release rate. The solvent evaporation method proved effective in producing discrete, spherical microparticles characterized by good flowability and minimal stickiness. The surfactant Span 80 was optimized at a concentration of 1.0% to ensure optimal emulsion stability and microparticle formation. Results demonstrated that Eudragit S-100 based microparticles exhibited a significantly slower drug release profile compared to those formulated with Eudragit L-100. Notably, the formulation with a 1:4 Saxagliptin-to-Eudragit S-100 ratio achieved sustained release for up to 12 hours, confirming the trend of decreasing release rates with increasing concentrations of coating material. Dissolution data analysis revealed that the release kinetics best fit a zero-order model, indicating a constant drug release rate over time. Furthermore, the Peppas model provided the most suitable framework for understanding the drug release mechanism. The exponential coefficient (n) values indicated a non-Fickian release pattern, signifying a complex interplay between diffusion and erosion processes, which are critical for maintaining the sustained-release profile. Additionally, FTIR spectroscopy was employed to assess the compatibility of Saxagliptin within the optimized formulation. The results confirmed that the drug retained its chemical identity, with no evidence of chemical interactions between Saxagliptin and the excipients. This comprehensive study underscores the potential of Eudragit S-100 as an effective polymer for developing sustained-release formulations of Saxagliptin, enhancing patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes.
Antibacterial Potential of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ISP1RL4 Isolated from Seaweed Eucheuma cottonii Against Multidrug-resistant Bacteria
Authors: Indraningrat Anak Agung Gede , Purnami Pande Putu Christine Putri , Damayanti Ema , Wijaya Made Dharmesti , Masyeni Dewa Ayu Putri Sri , Sari Ni Luh Putu Eka Kartika
Published: January 2025

Eucheuma cottonii is a type of seaweed that are commonly found in Indonesia. As many other marine organisms, E. cottonii builds a strong bonding with its endophytic bacteria. These bacteria are well known to synthesize various of bioactive compounds including antibacterial compounds to protect its host from bacterial infections and pathogenic bacteria. Previous study has successfully isolated bacterial encoded ISP1RL4 with antibacterial potential against nonresistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial target. This research aimed to identify the ISP1RL4 isolate based on DNA sequencing, to evaluate antibacterial activity of the crude extract of ISP1RL4 isolate against multidrug-resistant bacterial target and to analysis chemical profiling of the extracts. Briefly, the cell mass of ISP1RL4 bacterial isolate was fermented for 2 weeks in 100 mL sterile liquid ISP-2 medium and then filtered. Extraction was carried out using ethyl acetate with an extraction ratio of 1:1 twice. Ethyl acetate extracts of ISP1RL4 were tested against multidrug-resistant bacteria Methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli ESBL, Klebsiella pneumoniae ESBL, and Acinetobacter baumanii. Our findings revealed that the ISP1RL4 phylogenetically related to Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain M4 with 100% of sequence similarity. The crude extract of P. aeruginosa ISP1RL4 showed diameter zone of inhibition of 9.0±1.0 mm, 10.3±2.0 mm and 9.4±0.1 mm against MRSA, E. coli ESBL, and K. pneumoniae ESBL respectively. No antibacterial activity of the crude extract was observed against A. baumanii. The liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) analysis detected 381 compounds with 2-Amino-1,3,4-octadecanetriol (11.2%) identified as the major antibacterial compound present in ethyl acetate extracts of P. aeruginosa ISP1RL4. In addition, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis identified 39 compounds and 11 of them have been associated as antibacterial molecules. Among these 11 molecules, four prominent antibacterial compounds (> 8%) were 2-hexanol, 3-hexanol, 3-Pentanol, 2-methyl- and 2-hexanone. Overall, the ability of P. aeruginosa ISP1RL4 crude extract to inhibit selected multidrug-resistant bacterial target and the presence antibacterial compounds in the extract provided a promising result that the isolate could potentially be a promising antibacterial producer.
Formulation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Cream Containing Amaranthus spinosus Leaf Extract
Authors: Bania Ratnali , Islam Sofiqul , Rahman Nekibur , Deka Satyendra , Nath Debabrata , Parasar Abhishek , Kumari Madhusmita
Published: January 2025

Herbal medicine therapy is an ancient practice to treat various health issues, including viral and non-infectious skin diseases. At present time, people are running behind natural or herbal sources because of their fewer side effects and add-on benefits as compared to allopathy medicines. In the Indian traditional system of medicine (Ayurveda), the Amaranthus spinosus (Amaranthaceae) plant is used for analgesic, antipyretic, laxative, diuretic, digestible, antidiabetic, anti-snake venom, antileprotic, blood diseases, bronchitis, piles, and anti-gonorrheal. The study's objective was to perform extraction and phytochemical studies of A. spinosus leaves, perform the in-vitro antibacterial and antioxidant activity of the extract, and formulate a topical cream. The ethanol water leaf extract exhibited higher antibacterial efficacy than ciprofloxacin against Staphylococcus aureus at 15 and 30 µg, while ciprofloxacin was more effective at 60 µg. However, the extract showed more effectiveness than ciprofloxacin against Escherichia coli at all tested concentrations. The study revealed that the leaf extract showed good antibacterial and antioxidant activity. The physical evaluation of the formulated cream showed that the cream was stable with potential application to reduce skin infection with consequent health benefits.
X-ray Analysis of Fine Structure of Heme in Normal and Thalassemic HbE/F Hemoglobin
Authors: Freisleben Seruni Kusuma Udyaningsih , Freisleben Hans-Joachim
Published: January 2025

Thalassemic hemoglobin (Hb) differs from normal Hb in its structure and oxygen-binding capacity. To find out structural differences in their heme-iron sites, X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) was applied. Resulting data in the range of and obtained from frozen aqueous solutions (10 K) of normal and thalassemic HbE/F deoxy forms were refined using multiple-scattering (MS) analyses. To test the robustness of the refinements R starting models, constraints, restraints, and k ranges were varied; for normal relaxed R- and tense T-deoxy-Hb final XAFS R values were 13% and 17% and for thalassemic HbE/F relaxed R-deoxy-Hb R value was 19-21%. With normal R-deoxy-Hb, we obtained Fe-Np (pyrrole) and Fe-NÎ (imidazole) distances of 2.05 and 2.14 , whereas in thalassemic HbE/F R-deoxy-Hb, these values were 2.11 and 1.9 , respectively. In the T-state of normal deoxy-Hb, Fe-Np distance (2.08 was longer and Fe-NÎ (1.96 shorter than in the R-state; from thalassemic HbE/F T-deoxy-Hb we could not obtain sufficiently stable probes for XAFS measurement. In normal and HbE/F R-deoxy-Hb the Fe-His imidazole bond deviated from the z-axis by ~100, whereas it was on the z-axis in the T-state of normal Hb. Heme doming increased from normal R-deoxy via normal T-deoxy to thalassemic R-deoxy forms with simultaneously increasing dislocation of the central iron from the plane of the porphyrin. Oxygenation brings the iron back into the plane of the porphyrin ring.
Optimizing AAV Filtration: Comparative Analysis of Membrane Performance and Recovery Rates
Authors: Wu YeQing , Xie GuoHao , Xu WeiXian , Xu WeiXian , Yuan Jun , Xu Wayne Wenyan , Yu Henry Xiaoyu , Jiang Lothar Yulin , Ruan Jeremy Junxi , Poon H. Fai
Published: January 2025

Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have proven to be effective tools for gene therapy due to their ability to be engineered to deliver genetic material to target cells. This study investigates the performance of three different filtration membrane packs—Lepure, Cobetter, and Merck—in purifying the AAV8 serotype. We assessed the turbidity and AAV titer before and after filtration to evaluate the efficiency of each membrane. Before filtration, the AAV8 sample exhibited a turbidity of 173.6 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) and a titer of 1.01 × 1011 viral genomes per mL (vg/mL). Post-filtration, it is observed that the Lepure membrane achieved a turbidity of 6.65 NTU and an AAV titer of 4.48 × 109 vg/mL, while Cobetter resulted in a turbidity of 3.44 NTU and a titer of 3.80 × 109 vg/mL. Merck demonstrated the lowest performance with a turbidity of 0.49 NTU and an AAV titer of 9.70 × 109 vg/mL. Notably, Lepure demonstrated the highest recovery rate at 13.3%, despite its higher turbidity, indicating minimal viral adsorption. These findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate filtration systems to optimize AAV recovery while maintaining low turbidity levels, ultimately enhancing the efficiency of AAV as a vector for therapeutic applications. Further research is recommended to refine these filtration methods to improve the purification of AAV.
Potential of Ethanol Extract Ulva Lactuca Cream in Inhibiting Tyrosinase Enzyme Activity as an Anti-Hyperpigmentation Agent in Guinea Pig (Cavia Porcellus) Skin Exposed to Ultraviolet Radiation
Authors: Sundari Luh Putu Ratna , Widianti I Gusti Ayu , Bulandari Made Alyashanti Radya , Tunas I Ketut
Published: January 2025

The ethanol extract of Ulva lactuca cream was developed to assess its potential as an anti-hyperpigmentation agent by inhibiting tyrosinase enzyme expression and melanin formation. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the cream in preventing hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase enzyme activity. This study uses a randomized post-test-only control group design. The subjects were 27 healthy male guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus), aged 3-4 months, weighing 300-350 grams, divided into three groups. The control group received a base cream, while treatment group 1 received a cream with 30% ethanol extract of Ulva lactuca. Treatment group 2 received a cream with 50% ethanol extract. All of the groups were exposed to UVB radiation, three times a week at a dose of 65 mJ/cm² for 65 seconds for two weeks. The cream was applied daily, 20 minutes before and 4 hours after UVB exposure. The levels of tyrosinase enzyme were measured and analyzed using an independent T-test. The average tyrosinase enzyme level in the control group was significantly higher, at 111.92 ng/ml ± 6.56, compared to Group 1 with 91.42 ng/ml ± 0.96, and Group 2 with 58.83 ng/ml ± 1.21. This indicates that tyrosinase enzyme was inhibited in the groups treated with 30% and 50% Ulva lactuca extract cream compared to the control group (p<0.001). It can be concluded that the ethanol extract Ulva lactuca creams have significant potential to inhibit the formation of tyrosinase enzyme, which plays a role in hyperpigmentation, in guinea pig skin exposed to UVB radiation.
Assessment of Nephroprotective Properties of Vitex Agnus castus Extract in Cisplatin-Treated Wistar Rats: A Pilot Study
Authors: Tripathy Aparna , Dutta Babi , Raghavendra Archana Parampalli , Surendran Sudarshan
Published: January 2025

Background: Cisplatin (CP) is used to treat various solid tumors but is associated with nephrotoxicity, which varies with dose and duration. Vitex Agnus castus (VAC) berries, known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may alleviate CP-induced renal toxicity. Objective: To investigate the gender-specific responses to cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and evaluate VAC extract's nephroprotective effects. Methods: Four-month-old Wistar rats (n=36) (24 male, 12 female) were used. In phase 1, gender-based differences in CP-induced nephrotoxicity were assessed. The gender group with higher nephrotoxicity was selected for phase 2 to evaluate VAC's nephroprotective properties. Animals were randomly grouped as Normal Control (6 males & 6 females), CP Control (6 males & 6 females) received CP (7 mg/kg bw) injection, VAC Control (received 165 mg/kg bw VAC for 7 days daily), and CP+VAC (CP injection followed by VAC orally for 7 days). Results: CP-treated male rats showed significantly higher plasma creatinine, urea, and BUN levels (p<0.05) than controls, while female rats showed slight increases. Male rats were chosen for phase 2, where VAC treatment post-CP injection lowered the kidney function parameters, though not significantly compared to CP controls. Histopathology revealed severe tubular damage and dilation in CP-treated kidneys compared to controls. Conclusion: Cisplatin (7 mg/kg bw) causes acute kidney injury, with male rats showing more nephrotoxicity. VAC extract reduced biochemical markers of nephrotoxicity but did not reverse CP-induced damage, suggesting potential mitigation of some CP-induced renal toxicity.
Formulation and in Vitro Efficacy Evaluation of Polyherbal Hair Tonics for Enhancing Hair Health on Various Hair Types
Authors: Aliudin Nur Amalina , David Sheba Rani
Published: January 2025

Hair tonics are commonly used in hair care to improve hair health and manageability through natural ingredients. This study aimed to develop and evaluate polyherbal hair tonic formulations containing white tea, green tea, and cherry blossom extracts, assessing their physicochemical properties, stability, and efficacy in enhancing hair texture, thickness, and manageability. Two formulations were prepared: Hair Tonic A (10% white tea extract) and Hair Tonic B (10% green tea extract). The formulations were analyzed for pH, viscosity, density, and UV-Vis transmittance. Stability testing was conducted at room temperature (25°C), elevated temperature (50°C), and high humidity (75% RH, 40°C). In vitro efficacy tests on human hair tresses (black, blonde, and mixed) in both non-bleached and bleached states evaluated changes in hair thickness, weight, anti-frizz properties, and curl retention. Hair Tonic A demonstrated superior stability, maintaining a pH of 4.78, viscosity of 5.03 mPa/s, and density of 1.014 g/ml, with a UV-Vis transmittance of 88.66%. In contrast, Hair Tonic B showed instability under high temperatures and light exposure, with color changes and odor development by Day 28. Hair Tonic A increased hair thickness and improved manageability, particularly in blonde and black hair, while also showing better anti-frizz and curl retention properties. These findings suggest that the polyherbal formulations, especially Hair Tonic A, offer a promising daily-use hair care solution, with significant benefits in enhancing hair health and stability.