bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The possibilities of using ursodeoxycholic acid in the practice of a gastroenterologist and therapist
Authors: Knorring G. Yu. , Sedyakina Yu. V. , Kurdzhieva S. S.
Published: November 2024

Relevance. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a natural hydrophilic bile acid, which initially found its use in the treatment of a number of liver diseases as a first–line therapy. UDCA reduces the secretion of cholesterol into bile and is actively used in the treatment and prevention of gallstone disease; UDCA also has the ability to stimulate hepatobiliary secretion, which is important for patients with primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. More recent studies have shown the pleiotropy of the effects of UDCA, in terms of effects on pathophysiological processes in the liver and the entire hepatobiliary complex, for example, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects, immunomodulatory and anticarcinogenic effects. Even more interesting and important were the complex mechanisms of the effect of UDCA on the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and, further, on the pathogenetic relationships of NAFLD and cardio-vascular pathology. The article examines the possibilities of using UDCA in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and, more broadly, the possibilities of the drug in influencing NAFLD and the development and progression of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
Principles of oncological alertness for outpatient therapists using the example of colorectal cancer
Authors: Vertkin A. L. , Rudnitskaya M. A. , Vakhabova Yu. V. , Knorring G. Yu.
Published: November 2024

Malignant diseases remain an important medical problem, and its solution depends on the effectiveness of identifying the early stages of cancer at the outpatient stage, including the therapeutic level of medical care. Formation of oncological alertness skills in primary care physicians is necessary for early detection and reduction of the incidence of advanced tumor stages and earlier initiation of specialized treatment. Identification of symptoms suspicious for malignant neoplasms using algorithmic approaches and subsequent consultation of the patient by a specialist surgeon or oncologist should improve treatment outcomes. The article considers the principles of oncological alertness applicable at the outpatient stage by therapists and general practitioners using colorectal cancer as an example. A set of specially developed printed materials facilitating the implementation of the principles of oncological alertness is proposed.
Management of patients with Crohn's disease – from history to modern approaches
Authors: Bikbavova G. R. , Akhmedov V. A. , Tretyakova T. V. , Pirozhkova A. M.
Published: November 2024

Since the isolation of Crohn's disease as a separate pathology, significant progress has been made both in the diagnosis of the disease and in approaches to the treatment of patients with this pathology. The active introduction of biologics and the top-down approach into clinical practice in patients with negative prognosis factors has led to a significant improvement in treatment results and prognosis in patients. The use of the most effective anti-inflammatory therapy during the «therapeutic window of opportunity» – up to 18 months – is the key to achieving remission, or minimal activity of Crohn's disease by suppressing inflammation and preventing irreversible structural damage to the intestinal wall and, as a result, the development of complications. The article presents an excursion into the history of the discovery of this disease, which is still far from its completion. The approaches to the treatment of patients with this pathology are highlighted with an explanation of the current position based on data from meta-analyses and systematic reviews. A demonstration of a patient with a penetrating phenotype of Crohn's disease in the form of a perianal lesion and a history of oncopathology is presented. Ustekinumab therapy can be considered as an optimal management strategy for patients with Crohn's disease with unfavorable prognosis factors.
Correlation of the KRAS gene’s copy number variation and the results of targeted therapy for colorectal cancer
Authors: Shubin Vitaly P. , Achkasov S. I. , Shelygin Yu. A. , Ponomarenko A. A. , Barinov A. A. , Loginova A. N. , Arzamastseva A. I. , Tsukanov A. S.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: to find predictive value of KRAS gene’s copy number variation (CNV_KRAS) to anti-EGFR therapy.PATIENTS AND METHODS: a prospective cohort single-center study included 150 patients, 103 patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and wild-type RAS/BRAF, 39 patients with colorectal cancer with somatic mutations in the KRAS gene, as well as 8 non-oncological patients (as normal controls). CNV_KRAS was determined using digital droplet PCR.RESULTS: the clinically significant CNV_KRAS level of ≥ 9 copies established for a refusal of targeted anti-EGFR therapy. The incidence of clinically significant CNV_KRAS level in patients with wild-type RAS/BRAF was 17% (the first group of patients). Incidence of clinically significant CNV_KRAS level in patients with mutations in the KRAS gene was 3% (the second group of patients). At the I stage of CRC clinically significant CNV_KRAS was not detected in either the first or second group; at the stage II of CRC in the first group — in 14% of patients (3/22), and in the second group — not detected; at the stage III of CRC in the first group — in 21% of patients (8/39), and in the second group of patients — not detected; at the stage IV of CRC in the first group — in 17% (6/35) of patients, and in the second group of patients — in 5% (1/20). Tumor DNA was analyzed in 10 patients with the stage IV CRC from the first group who received anti-EGFR therapy to find out the clinically significant level of CNV_KRAS. Disease control was achieved in 7 out of 10 patients. The median CNV_KRAS score in the remaining three patients was higher than in the disease control group, 9.2 (9.05, 10.10) and 5.38 (4.77, 7.35) (p = 0.017).CONCLUSIONS: detection of CNV_KRAS level of ≥ 9 copies in a malignant colon tumor is a contraindication to targeted therapy. This phenomenon occurs significantly more often in patients without somatic mutations in the RAS genes (KRAS, NRAS) and BRAF, than in patients with point mutations in the KRAS gene (p = 0.02).
Perineal schwannoma (case report and review)
Authors: Bragina A. S. , Anosov I. S. , Khryukin R. Yu. , Maynovskaya O. A.
Published: November 2024

Schwannoma (also known as neurilemmoma) is a type of benign tumor that originates from the myelin sheath around of peripheral nerves. It is composed of schwann cells, which are specialized cells that help to insulate nerve fibers. Schwannomas are relatively rare, accounting for only 5% of all benign tumors in the perineal region. They are usually asymptomatic and are only detected when they come into contact with other organs or structures, causing symptoms such as compression. Preoperative diagnosis of schwannoma is challenging, as it is often difficult to distinguish it from other types of tumors in the same area. The final diagnosis can only be confirmed by intraoperative histology.

The method of choice for benign neurilemmomas is complete removal, as they continue growth after resection. Removing part of the tumor may be an option in cases where removing the neoplasm en bloc could damage adjacent structures, such as anal sphincter, levators, rectum, vagina and urethra.

Clinical case: twenty-five years old female, had complaints of a tumor in the left buttock area and discomfort in a sitting position for 3 years. Pelvic MRI with intravenous contrast revealed a tumor 6.0 × 5.1 × 9.0 cm in the left ischial region. Surgical removal of the tumor was performed.
Role of fluorescence navigation with indocyanine green during lateral pelvic lymphodissection in the treatment of rectal cancer (meta-analysis)
Authors: Tishkevich I. S. , Alekseev M. V. , Khomyakov E. A. , Rybakov E. G.
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION: intraoperative fluorescence navigation with indocyanine green (ICG) allows visualizing possible affected lymph nodes, which hypothetically provides more precise lateral pelvic node dissection (LPND).

AIM: to compare immediate results of lateral pelvic node dissection (LPND) combined with fluorescence navigation with ICG and conventional LPND for the treatment of metastatic lesions of lateral pelvic lymph nodes in patients with rectal cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: search was performed in the PubMed library (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA) with keywords “indocyanine green,” “ICG“, ”lymph nodes,” “lateral lymph node dissection,” and “rectal cancer” in various combinations. Four non-randomized studies were included in meta-analysis, three retrospective and one prospective, on the outcomes of ICG use during LPND in patients with rectal cancer in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS: significantly more lymph nodes were harvested in LPND + ICG group (MD = 4.5; 95% CI: 3.0–5.9; p < 0.00001). The operation time was longer in the ICG group (MD = 32.5; 95% CI: 2.8–62.3; p = 0.03). Intraoperative blood loss was higher in conventional LPND group (MD = −52.6; 95% CI: −89.8 — −15.3; p = 0.006). Hospital stay was significantly shorter in ICG group (MD = −1.2; 95% CI: −2.0 — −0.4; p = 0.003). Patients who underwent standard LPND were significantly more likely to have postoperative urinary retention (OR = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.1–0.9; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION: fluorescence navigation with ICG improves early results of LPND. Further accumulation of experience with dynamic follow-up of patients is crucial.
Pathogenetic mechanisms of penetrating Crohn’s disease (review)
Authors: Belous S. S. , Vykova B. A. , Anosov I. S. , Aleksandrov T. L. , Chupina P. I. , Korgunova M. V.
Published: November 2024

The review evaluates pathogenesis of intestinal fistulas in Crohn’s disease (CD). An idea of the possible contribution of the microbiological and genetic factor is given. The possible effect of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors also assessed. One of the most promising areas which can explain development of intestinal fistulas in CD is epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Further research is required to identify the cause of the complicated CD, which in future will develop correct approaches to pathogenetic therapy.
Inflammatory bowel diseases: epidemiology and risk factors (review)
Authors: Stamboltsyan V. Sh. , Bakulin I. G. , Aslanov B. I. , Kirillova A. A.
Published: November 2024

The global spread of IBD is likely due to the westernization of the diet and the environment, which leads to changes in the gut microbiome and increases the risk of disease in people with a genetic predisposition. In light of the increasing incidence of IBD worldwide, it is important to evaluate risk factors in order to develop prognostic risk models for IBD and various variants of the course of UC and CD and methods to combat these diseases. This review article examines key aspects related to the negative and beneficial effects of various factors on the development and course of IBD. The data shows that smoking (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.40–2.22), obesity class II or III (OR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.30–2.68 for CD and OR = 2.97; 95% CI: 1.75–5.17), taking antibiotics one year before the diagnosis (OR = 1.61;95% CI: 1.26–2.05 for UC and OR = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.09–1.31 for CD), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Relative Risk (RR) = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.08–2.16 for UC), combined oral contraceptives (UC by 3.3%; 95% ДИ: 2.1–4.4 and CD by 6.4%; 95% ДИ: 5.1–7.7), can not only increase the risks of exacerbations of IBD, but also contribute to the development of these conditions. These factors can aggravate the course of an existing disease: for example, the frequency of hospitalizations (OR = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.56–3.52) and the probability of resistance to genetically engineered biological drugs (GEBD) (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.39–1.83). Dietary factors such as ultra-processed foods (RR = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.22–2.72), confectionery (≥ 100 g/day) (RR = 2.58; 95% CI: 1.44–4.62) and trans fats (RR = 1.34; 95% CI: 0.94–1.92) can have a negative impact, increasing the risk of developing IBD. Physical activity is considered as factors that have a protective effect on the course of IBD, reducing the frequency of exacerbations (RR = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.54–1.13 for UC and RR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.55–0.94 for CD). Dietary fiber (24 g/day) reduces the risk of developing CD (RR = 0.59; 95% CI:0.39–0.90), and a large number of fruits in the diet reduces the risk of developing both UC (OR = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.49–0.96) and CD (OR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.44–0.74).
Adjuvant chemotherapy for colorectal cancer: role of specialized unit
Authors: Bogdanov D. V. , Chertkov D. A. , Berezin A. V. , Potekhina E. F. , Voroshilov Yu. A. , Mordovsky E. A. , Valkov M. Yu.
Published: November 2024

AIM: to evaluate the rate and timeliness of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) in patients with stage II–III colon cancer (CC) after surgery in different medical units of the Arkhangelsk region and to assess its prognostic value.PATIENTS AND METHODS: all records on patients with CC after radical surgery in 2010–2021 were extracted from the Arkhangelsk Regional Cancer Registry (ARCR). Proportions of those who received ACT, the average waiting time for ACT and survival depending on the fact of ACT in specialized oncological unit (SOU), including the Arkhangelsk Clinical Oncology Dispensary (ACOD) and non-specialized medical units (NMU). Cancer-specific survival (CSS) was assessed. The hazard ratio (HR) of death from CC was estimated by Cox regression depending on receiving ACT and the waiting time for it.RESULTS: the database included 1032 cases (538 patients with stage III and 494 with stage II patients, who had unfavorable prognosis factors). No differences were found in ACT rate among patients with stage II CC. In stage III CC, ACT was performed in 73.5% of patients operated on in the SOU and 46.3% in NMU (p < 0.0001). The median waiting time for ACT after radical surgery in the SOU was 33.5 (17.0; 43.5) days, and 46.5 (31.0; 64.5) days in the NMUs, p < 0.0001. The five-year CSS of those who received ACT was 67,2% (95% confidence interval (CI): 60.8–72.9%), and 64.1% (95% CI: 58.8–68.1%) for those who did not receive ACT, p = 0.012. Five-year CSS after chemotherapy started within 4 weeks after radical surgery was 73.2%, for the gaps 5-8, 9–12 and more than 12 weeks 70.4%, 63.7%, and 35.4%, respectively, p = 0.002. In the adjusted model, the HR for death from ROC was 3-fold higher in patients receiving ACT at 12 + weeks (HR = 2.6 (95% CI: 1.31–5.14), p = 0.006) compared with the 0–4-week interval.CONCLUSION: the study revealed lower and later incidence of ACT in NMU affected worse survival.
Impact of neoadjuvant chemotargeted therapy in patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases in perioperative period
Authors: Yunusova N. V. , Dobrodeev A. Yu. , Kostromitsky D. N. , Afanasyev S. G. , Tarasova A. S. , Ermolenko R. V. , Babyshkina N. N. , Dronova T. A. , Ponomareva A. A. , Larionova I. V.
Published: November 2024

AIM: assess the impact of neoadjuvant chemotargeted therapy in patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases in perioperative period.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: a pilot prospective study included 30 patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases (mCRC). The combined treatment included 3 cycles of neoadjuvant FOLFOXIRI chemotherapy with the addition of targeted agents: cetuximab (24 patients with wtKRAS) and bevacizumab (6 patients with mtKRAS) followed by radical surgery.

RESULTS: the clinical and radiological response of colorectal cancer liver metastases to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) was complete in 4 (13.3%) patients and partial in 26 (86.7%) patients. Partial response to NACT in the primary tumor occurred in all patients. Adverse events of NACT were detected in 12 (40%) patients, 1 (3.3%) of them produced grade III toxicity. All patients underwent radical surgery (R0) 3–4 weeks after NACT, 28 (93.3%) of them underwent simultaneous colorectal and liver resection. Postoperative complications occurred in 21 (70%) patients, including grade I and grade IIIa complications (according to Сlavien-Dindo classification) — 22 (73.3%) and 2 (6.7%), respectively. Histology revealed pathologic complete response (pCR) of liver metastases in 1 (3.6%) case and pathological grade 3 regression of the primary tumor (TRG3, Mandard A.M.) in 23 (76.7%) patients. Two (6.7%) patients with complete clinical and radiological response of liver metastases, who did not undergo liver resection, had no evidence of disease progression 12 months after the treatment.

CONCLUSION: in mCRC with synchronous liver metastases, NACT according to the FOLFOXIRI regimen in combination with targeted agents with a moderate toxicity profile provide significant carcinocidal effect without having a negative impact in the perioperative period. The study is ongoing to analyze 2-year disease-free and overall survival of patients.
Postoperative outcomes of pancreatoduodenaectomy with colon resection
Authors: Egorov V. I. , Kotelnikov A. G. , Patyutko Yu. I. , Akhmetzyanov F. Sh. , Podluzhny D. V. , Valiev N. A. , Polyakov A. N. , Kudashkin N. E. , Kuzmichev D. V.
Published: November 2024

AIM: to assess early results of pancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection for cancer.PATIENTS AND METHODS: a retrospective cohort two-center controlled study included 927 patients. The first group included 95 patients after рancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection. The second group included 832 patients who underwent рancreatoduodenalectomy without resection of adjacent organs. The first group was divided into two subgroups: the first subgroup is patients with malignant neoplasms of the colon — 42, the second subgroup is patients with malignant neoplasms of other sites — 53.RESULTS: the group of patients with рancreatoduodenalectomy and colon resection was significantly more often assessed according to the ECOG 2–3 and ASA 3 (52/95 (54.7%) vs 63/669 (9.4%), p < 0.001 and 25/95 (26.3%) vs 104/669 (15.5%), respectively). The postoperative morbidity rate, as well as their class according to Clavien-Dindo, was homogeneous in both groups. The postoperative mortality rate was higher in the group of рancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection (13/42 (31.0%) vs 49/832 (5.9%), p = 0.004). When comparing with subgroups, the postoperative mortality rate was comparable between patients after рancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection for colon cancer and рancreatoduodenalectomy without resection of adjacent organs (3/42 (7.1%) vs 49 / 832 (5.9%), р = 0.7), and was significantly higher in the рancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection (10/53 (18.9%) vs 49/832 (5,9%), р < 0.001).CONCLUSION: patients in the рancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection group are clinically more severe, and the operation itself is accompanied by a high rate of postoperative morbidity, but a comparable with рancreatoduodenalectomy in a standard volume, without resection of adjacent organs. Рancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection for colon cancer is also associated with a comparable rate of postoperative mortality with standard рancreatoduodenalectomy, while рancreatoduodenalectomy with colon resection for cancer of other locations is characterized by a significantly higher level of postoperative mortality.
Does a surgical access for rectal cancer in older patients affect postoperative morbidity and oncological safety?
Authors: Polovinkin V. V. , Shiraliev R. M.-A. , Ermakov E. A. , Doronin N. V. , Balyan A. S. , Khalafyan A. A. , Karmaseva V. S.
Published: November 2024

AIM: to evaluate the effect of a surgical access on postoperative morbidity and oncological safety in older patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: a multicenter retrospective study included 179 patients aged 60–74 years who underwent surgery for middle and low rectal cancer (T1-3N0-N2bM0) in 2021-2023. The patients were divided into 3 groups: the first ones underwent robotic (ROB) surgery (n = 62), the second — laparoscopic (LAP) surgery (n = 55), and the third — open (OPEN) surgery (n = 62). Parameters of pre-, intra-, and postoperative periods and histopathological findings were evaluated. Neural network modeling was used to predict anastomotic leakage (AL).

RESULTS: the blood loss was 150 (100; 200) ml with OPEN versus 100 (50; 100) with ROB and LAP, the operation time was 255 (210; 300) min with ROB versus 180 (150; 240) min with LAP and 140 (120; 150) min with OPEN. In ROB and LAP groups, anastomoses were formed in 61 (98.4%) and 54 (98.2%) cases compared with 45 (72.6%) cases in the OPEN group (p = 0.00001). The splenic flexure was mobilized in 54 (98.2%) cases in the LAP group, 55 (88.7%) cases in the OPEN group, and 50 (80.7%) cases in the ROB group (p = 0.01). Conversion rates were 10.9% (6/55) and 1.6% (1/62) in LAP and ROB groups, respectively (p = 0.00001). Postoperative complications in the OPEN group occurred in 48 (77.4%) cases compared with 31 (50%) and 12 (21.8%) in ROB and LAP groups (p = 0.02). Inflammatory complications predominated in the OPEN group. Distal and lateral margins, the quality of mesorectal excision, and the number of examined and affected lymph nodes did not differ. However, the good quality of mesorectal excision prevailed in ROB and OPEN groups, where as the satisfactory quality was more common in the LAP group. The most important predictors of AL were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status II, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, stage I and IIa cancer, end-to-end anastomosis, Charlson Comorbidity Index scores of 3–4, and surgeon’s experience (20–40 operations for rectal cancer per year). The least important predictors were the level of mesenteric vessel ligation and the access.

CONCLUSIONS: the surgical access does not affect the AL rate. The histology revealed that all the 3 approaches ensure compliance with principles of oncological safety. Compared with open surgery, robotic and laparoscopic surgery result in less blood loss and faster recovery of intestinal function; however, the operation time increases.
Longitudinal ileocolonic pouch for total colorectal agangliosis in children
Authors: Stepanova N. M. , Novozhilov V. A. , Zvonkov D. A. , Rasputin A. A. , Cheremnov V. S. , Baradieva P. Jh. , Konopatkina M. V.
Published: November 2024

There is no consensus on total colorectal agangliosis in children and two modalities are most often to use: Duhamel procedure and endorectal ileoanal anastomosis. The paper presents the experience of ileocolonic pouch in these patients. An original modified technique is described. All patients underwent previous diversion, more often terminal ileostomy. The follow-up was 0.6–8 years, the late results were estimated.
COMMENTS Natalya M. Stepanova, Vladimir A. Novozhilov, Denis A. Zvonkov, Andrey A. Rasputin, Vladislav S. Cheremnov, Polina Jh. Baradieva, Maria V. Konopatkina Longitudinal ileocolonic pouch for total colorectal agangliosis in children
Authors: Алешин Д. В. , Кузьминов А. М.
Published: November 2024

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What lies ahead? Consumer expectations and wishes for organic animal farming: analyzing improvements to boost confidence in organic livestock farming
Authors: Bayer Elisa , Kühl Sarah
Published: November 2024

Introduction

To meet the policy target of increasing the share of organic farming in the EU to 25% by 2030, it is also essential to increase consumer demand for organic products. For many consumers, animal welfare is one of the main reasons to buy organics. Trust is inherently important when purchasing organic food, as most of the standards on which organic farming relies, such as more space, cannot be verified by the consumer. Consumer trust in organic animal farming is therefore an important factor in the expansion of the market share of organic products. The aim of this study is to identify specific trust-building “changes” in organic livestock husbandry to strengthen consumer trust in the long term.

Method

A total of eight regulations or practices, e.g. early cow-calf separation or regulations on the use of antibiotics, were assessed in terms of consumer awareness. Further described changes to these practices or regulations were ranked regarding their potential to improve trust in organic animal husbandry.

Results

The results show that most of the regulations and practices mentioned were not known to consumers, confirming a low level of consumer knowledge about specific aspects of organic farming. All eight possible changes would increase consumer trust, at least somewhat.

Discussion

The ranking shows that, in particular, the practice of dam rearing and an even stronger limitation of flock sizes for poultry have the highest potential to increase consumer trust in organic animal husbandry and can therefore be recommended as important strategies to meet consumer demands in the future.
Geometrically modified bovine pericardium membrane promotes the expression of molecules targeted for a faster integration and vascularization process
Authors: Morgante Olga , Della Rocca Ylenia , Marconi Guya Diletta , Mazzone Antonella , Cavalcanti Marcos F. X. B. , Trubiani Oriana , Diomede Francesca , Pizzicannella Jacopo
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In recent years, advancements in technology and the refinement of engineering techniques have facilitated the development of tissue engineering, placing particular emphasis on the use of 3D-biomaterials with several structural and chemical geometric features. In particular, increasing information on biomaterial geometric surfaces has allowed for a better understanding of tissue regenerative processes. In the present study a comparison between BioRipar®, bovine pericardium membrane, modified with micrometric roundish regular open pores (BioR-Ps) and BioRipar® without pores (BioR-NPs) has been investigated.

Methods

The expression of adhesion molecules such as: fibronectin, vimentin, focal adhesion kinase (FAK), integrin 1β, integrin α5, E-cadherin, and molecules involved in neovascularization processes such as: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGF-R) were evaluated in an in vitro model containing primary culture of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) through multiparametric analysis.

Results

The results indicated a markedly significant expression of all the abovementioned molecules in hPDLSCs cultured withBioR-Ps compared to hPDLSCs cultured with BioR-NPs. Scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated a marked interaction between the cells and the substrate, particularly evident in the proximity of open pores in the hPDLSCs cultured on the BioR-P surface compared to hPDLSCs cultured on the BioR-NP surface. Thus, the presence of micrometric open pores on the scaffold stimulates the proliferation potential of cells apart from their adhesion ability on the patch, particularly near the pores

Discussion

Expression of angiogenic molecules strengthened the performance of the modified BioR-Ps. During synthesis, 3D-biomaterial micrometric open-pores enable better bonding between cells and materials, increasing contact area and promoting cellular molecular signals in biomaterial-guided tissue engineering.
Application of 3D printing in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers: current status and new insights
Authors: Li Xinrui , Ai Xin , Wang Bo , Luo Mengqian , Miyamoto Akira , Kuchay Mohammad Shafi , Feng Dechao , Zhang Chi
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), affecting around 25% of individuals with DM. Primary treatment of a DFU involves wound off-loading, surgical debridement, dressings to provide a moist wound environment, vascular assessment, and appropriate antibiotics through a multidisciplinary approach. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is considered an innovative tool for the management of DFUs. The utilization of 3D printing technology in the treatment of DFU involves the modernization of traditional methods and the exploration of new techniques. This review discusses recent advancements in 3D printing technology for the application of DFU care, and the development of personalized interventions for the treatment of DFUs.

Methods

We searched the electronic database for the years 2019–2024. Studies related to the use of 3D printing technology in Diabetic foot were included.

Results

A total of 25 identified articles based on database search and citation network analysis. After removing duplicates, 18 articles remained, and three articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria were removed after reading the title/abstract. A total of 97 relevant articles were included during the reading of references. In total, 112 articles were included.

Conclusion

3D printing technology offers unparalleled advantages, particularly in the realm of personalized treatment. The amalgamation of traditional treatment methods with 3D printing has yielded favorable outcomes in decelerating the progression of DFUs and facilitating wound healing. However, there is a limited body of research regarding the utilization of 3D printing technology in the domain of DFUs.
Impact of geopolymer aggregate on the mechanical properties and durability characteristics of concrete
Authors: Udhaya Kumar T. , Vinod Kumar M. , Salunkhe Sachin , Cep Robert , Abouel Nasr Emad
Published: November 2024

This study examined the use of geopolymer aggregate (GPA), produced from slag and an alkaline solution, as a substitute for coarse aggregate in conventional concrete. The research aimed to evaluate how different proportions of GPA (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% replacement) affect the durability and mechanical properties of concrete. A series of tests were conducted, including slump, compressive strength, flexural strength, chloride resistance, sulfate resistance, sorptivity, and water absorption. The results demonstrated significant improvements in concrete properties with the inclusion of GPA. The compressive strength of GPA concrete ranged from 31 to 38 MPa, showing a 10%–15% increase over that of standard concrete. Flexural strength improved by 6% at 7 days and 7.5% at 28 days compared to control mixes. Water absorption was reduced by 42.58%, and sorptivity decreased by 47.9% compared to ordinary aggregate concrete. GPA concrete also excelled in acid resistance, with a weight loss of 28.6% and a lower reduction in strength compared to traditional acidic aggregates. In sulfate resistance tests, GPA concrete showed a 31% reduction in both weight and strength loss. These results highlight the advantages of using GPA as an alternative to conventional coarse aggregates. GPA not only enhances the mechanical and durability properties of concrete but also presents a more sustainable option, contributing to reduced environmental impacts associated with traditional aggregate materials.
Overexpression of Lifeact in the C. elegans body wall muscle causes sarcomere disorganization and embryonic or larval lethality
Authors: Ono Shoichiro
Published: November 2024

Lifeact is a short peptide that is widely utilized as a probe for actin filaments in live imaging. However, high concentrations of Lifeact can alter actin filament dynamics and cause artificial modifications to the actin cytoskeleton. Here, I evaluated Caenorhabditis elegans strains expressing Lifeact fused to fluorescent proteins in the body wall muscle. I found that, while low-level expression of Lifeact from a single-copy transgene was appropriate for labeling sarcomeric actin filaments, overexpression of Lifeact from an extrachromosomal array causes severe disorganization of muscle sarcomeres and lethality at an embryonic or larval stage. Therefore, for imaging studies in C. elegans, Lifeact needs to be kept at a low level by proper management of the expression system.
Saliva NIR spectroscopy and Aquaphotomics: a novel diagnostic approach to Paratuberculosis in dairy cattle
Authors: Behdad Saba , Pakdel Abbas , Massudi Reza
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Paratuberculosis is a granulomatous intestinal infection that affects ruminant animals worldwide. The disease is often detected when most animals are already infected due to the long incubation period and the high transmissibility of the infectious agent. The lack of a comprehensive method to diagnose Paratuberculosis is a global challenge. Therefore, a non-destructive, fast, and cost-effective diagnostic method for early detection of Paratuberculosis is crucial.

Methods

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and Aquaphotomics have the potential to diagnose the disease by detecting changes in biological fluids. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic ability of NIRS and Aquaphotomics for Paratuberculosis in dairy cattle by monitoring and data mining of saliva. The diagnostic models were developed according to saliva spectra of dairy cattle in the NIR range and 12 water absorbance bands from 100 to 200 days after calving in two groups: positive and negative, based on the same results of seven ELISA tests of blood plasma, as a reference test.

Results

Both NIRS and Aquaphotomics methods had high diagnostic accuracy. Using QDA and SVM models, 99% total accuracy, 98% sensitivity, and 100% specificity were achieved in internal validation. The total accuracy in external validation was 90%. This study presents two novel approaches to diagnosing Paratuberculosis in dairy cattle using saliva.

Discussion

The study found that changes in water absorbance spectral patterns of saliva caused by complex physiological changes, such as the amount of antibody related to Paratuberculosis in dairy cattle as biomarkers, are crucial in detecting Paratuberculosis using NIRS and Aquaphotomics.
Wildlife trade dynamics: exploring bushmeat market with a view toward social and ecological justice in Ibadan Metropolis Nigeria
Authors: Olunusi Bright O.
Published: November 2024

This study examines the bushmeat trade in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria, through the lens of environmental justice, focusing on sustainable livelihoods and wildlife conservation. Environmental justice in this context seeks to ensure fair economic opportunities for bushmeat marketers, predominantly women (93%), while protecting vulnerable wildlife species. The surveyed marketers—90% of whom were married—face social inequalities, with only 50% having secondary education and 10% lacking formal education. Most marketers sell bushmeat to household consumers and travelers, raising concerns about the potential spillover of wildlife products beyond Nigeria’s borders, with implications for conservation and zoonotic disease risks. ANOVA results show that greater experience leads to higher profits from species like grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus; P = 0.005) and nile monitor lizard (Varanus niloticus; P = 0.001). As key species such as West African crocodile (Crocdylus suchus), African leopard (Panthera pardus), and ground pangolin (Manis temminckii) decline in availability in traditional hunting grounds, this study emphasizes the urgent need for conservation policies that promote sustainable trade practices and provide alternative livelihoods. These strategies would advance the science of environmental justice by reducing pressure on wildlife (ecological justice) while ensuring stable incomes for marketers (social justice).
Indigenous use and conservation of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) at Yakutat, Alaska since the sixteenth century
Authors: Crowell Aron L. , Ramos Judith Daxootsú , Etnier Michael A.
Published: November 2024

Sustainable Indigenous resource use reflects balance between animal populations and levels of human consumption, influenced by natural cycles of faunal abundance, community size and subsistence needs, procurement technologies, and the requirements of trade or commodity production. Sustainability is “epiphenomenal” when animal populations are preserved, and community needs met, without deliberate measures to prevent overharvesting. Alternatively, Indigenous conservation—cultural practices that moderate use of a resource to prevent its depletion—may play a determinative role. In this study from the Tlingit community of Yakutat, Alaska in the Northwest Coast cultural region, we interweave Indigenous and scientific perspectives to trace the use and conservation of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) from before Western contact through the Russian and American colonial periods to the present. Harbor seals, which concentrate in large numbers at a summer ice floe rookery near Hubbard Glacier, are the community's most important subsistence food and a key to its culture and history. The Smithsonian Institution and Yakutat Tlingit Tribe undertook collaborative research in historical ecology and archaeology in 2011–2014 including oral interviews with elders and subsistence providers, excavations at sealing sites, archaeofaunal analysis, historical and archival research, and consideration of climate cycles and biological regime shifts that influence the harbor seal population in the Gulf of Alaska. We compare technologies and hunting practices before and after Western contact, estimate harvest levels in different periods, and evaluate the effectiveness of traditional conservation practices that included hunting quotas enforced by clan leaders and the seasonal delay of hunting with firearms to prevent abandonment of the rookery by the seal herd.
Diversity, inclusion, and equity in Qatar’s K-12 schools: exploring strategic approaches for recruitment, development, and retention
Authors: Al-Kubaisi Huda
Published: November 2024

This critical review study aimed to thoroughly evaluate methods for fostering principles of diversity, inclusion, and equity in the hiring, training, and retention processes of educators in Qatar’s schools. It incorporated the analysis of existing policies and practices, and the identification of gaps to propose evidence-based methods that likely enhance the three principles among educators. It also sought to provide additional knowledge and potential solutions that may significantly improve them. Further, I studied effective methods for enlisting educators from varied backgrounds, considering cultural, linguistic, and other relevant considerations, to satisfy the urgent demand for diversity among educators. Examining the importance of professional development programs in this context was crucial in encouraging inclusion and equity. Many institutional, cultural, and systemic impediments to progress have been revealed. The findings underline the significance of having a diverse educational workforce to foster inclusive and equitable educational experiences for students in schools in Qatar. They also emphasize the necessity for ongoing collaboration among stakeholders to achieve this goal. In response, legislative amendments, specialized recruitment strategies, professional development initiatives, and support systems are proposed to effectively address these challenges. Therefore, this research contributes to the scholarly discourse on diversity, inclusivity, and equity in education.
Using a computational cognitive model to simulate the effects of personal and social network experiences on seasonal influenza vaccination decisions
Authors: Walsh Matthew M. , Parker Andrew M. , Vardavas Raffaele , Nowak Sarah A. , Kennedy David P. , Gidengil Courtney A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Seasonal influenza poses significant societal costs, including illness, mortality, and reduced work productivity. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing the disease, yet vaccination rates in the United States fall below 50% for adults. Understanding the factors influencing vaccination decisions is crucial for designing interventions to improve uptake. This study investigates how personal experiences and the experiences of social contacts affect individual decisions to get vaccinated against influenza.

Methods

A multi-year longitudinal survey study was conducted to examine the impact of personal and social network experiences on vaccination decisions. Participants' vaccination behaviors and experiences with influenza were tracked over time. To model these influences, we developed a memory-based vaccination decision model using the Adaptive Control of Thought – Rational (ACT-R) integrated cognitive architecture, which incorporates cognitive processes associated with memory and decision-making.

Results

The survey results demonstrated that both personal experiences with influenza and the experiences of close social contacts significantly influenced vaccination decisions. The memory-based model, built within the ACT-R framework, effectively captured these effects, providing a computational representation of how personal and social factors contribute to vaccination behaviors.

Discussion

The findings suggest that personal and social experiences play a critical role in shaping vaccination decisions, which can inform the development of targeted interventions to increase vaccination uptake. By incorporating cognitive processes into the model, we identified potential strategies to enhance vaccine promotion efforts, such as recalling past experiences with illness to motivate individuals to get vaccinated.
Assessment of the self-healing capacity of PVA fiber-reinforced composites by chloride permeability and stiffness recovery
Authors: Buegger Urs , Carvalho Eliane Betania , Jänicke Ralf , Tofeti Lima Thamara
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the intrinsic ability of PVA fiber-reinforced cementitious composites to re-establish the durability properties of the uncracked state. Comparative chloride penetration tests are used as a direct measure to quantify the effect of self-healing on the chloride penetration resistance after cracking. Two different composites with cement to fly ash ratios of 1:1.5 and 1:2.0 were studied under the influence of healing periods of up to 28 days. After inducing cracks between 100 and 120 μm, samples were exposed to chlorides for 72 h and the resulting chloride penetration depth was compared to the unhealed state. Based on this procedure, a durability recovery index was proposed to quantify the material’s ability to re-establish its function as a protective layer after cracking. Results show that after 14 days of self-healing, chloride penetration through cracks was reduced between 81% and 99%. An extended healing period of 28 days leads to further reduction of the penetration depth to 84%–100%, indicating that most of the reaction takes place within the first 14 days of healing. While the stiffness recovery analysis showed that increasing cement content by 20% correlated with the formation of stronger healing products, no significant difference was found regarding crack closure.
Automated lung segmentation on chest MRI in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Ringwald Friedemann G. , Wucherpfennig Lena , Hagen Niclas , Mücke Jonas , Kaletta Sebastian , Eichinger Monika , Stahl Mirjam , Triphan Simon M. F. , Leutz-Schmidt Patricia , Gestewitz Sonja , Graeber Simon Y. , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Alrajab Abdulsattar , Schenk Jens-Peter , Sommerburg Olaf , Mall Marcus A. , Knaup Petra , Wielpütz Mark O. , Eisenmann Urs
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Segmentation of lung structures in medical imaging is crucial for the application of automated post-processing steps on lung diseases like cystic fibrosis (CF). Recently, machine learning methods, particularly neural networks, have demonstrated remarkable improvements, often outperforming conventional segmentation methods. Nonetheless, challenges still remain when attempting to segment various imaging modalities and diseases, especially when the visual characteristics of pathologic findings significantly deviate from healthy tissue.

Methods

Our study focuses on imaging of pediatric CF patients [mean age, standard deviation (7.50 ± 4.6)], utilizing deep learning-based methods for automated lung segmentation from chest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A total of 165 standardized annual surveillance MRI scans from 84 patients with CF were segmented using the nnU-Net framework. Patient cases represented a range of disease severities and ages. The nnU-Net was trained and evaluated on three MRI sequences (BLADE, VIBE, and HASTE), which are highly relevant for the evaluation of CF induced lung changes. We utilized 40 cases for training per sequence, and tested with 15 cases per sequence, using the Sørensen-Dice-Score, Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r), a segmentation questionnaire, and slice-based analysis.

Results

The results demonstrated a high level of segmentation performance across all sequences, with only minor differences observed in the mean Dice coefficient: BLADE (0.96 ± 0.05), VIBE (0.96 ± 0.04), and HASTE (0.95 ± 0.05). Additionally, the segmentation quality was consistent across different disease severities, patient ages, and sizes. Manual evaluation identified specific challenges, such as incomplete segmentations near the diaphragm and dorsal regions. Validation on a separate, external dataset of nine toddlers (2–24 months) demonstrated generalizability of the trained model achieving a Dice coefficient of 0.85 ± 0.03.

Discussion and conclusion

Overall, our study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of using nnU-Net for automated segmentation of lung halves in pediatric CF patients, showing promising directions for advanced image analysis techniques to assist in clinical decision-making and monitoring of CF lung disease progression. Despite these achievements, further improvements are needed to address specific segmentation challenges and enhance generalizability.
EGFR bypass activation mediates acquired resistance to regorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hu Lili , Shi Weiwei , Liu Kua , Ma Ding , Xin Qilei , Wang Zhongxia , Cao Yin , Zhang Guang
Published: November 2024

Background

Regorafenib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), is used in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the occurrence of acquired resistance limits its antitumor efficacy. While multiple studies have highlighted the crucial role of bypass activation in acquired TKI resistance, few have focused on bypass activation in regorafenib resistance in HCC.

Methods

High-throughput proteomics was used to identify differential proteins associated with bypass activation between acquired regorafenib-resistant cells and parental cells. The ability of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) bypass inhibition to reverse resistance was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo using direct microscopic observation, the CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide double staining, cell cycle analysis, western blotting, and a xenograft model.

Results

The expression of EGFR, a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family, was significantly increased in acquired regorafenib-resistant HCC cells compared with parental cells. Pharmacological inhibition of EGFR with gefitinib restored the sensitivity of regorafenib-resistant HCC cells to regorafenib. In a xenograft mouse model, gefitinib sensitized resistant tumors to regorafenib. Additionally, levels of RAS, RAF, and P-ERK1/2, components of the downstream EGFR signaling pathway, were positively associated with EGFR expression.

Conclusion

EGFR overexpression promotes acquired resistance to regorafenib through RAS/RAF/ERK bypass activation in HCC. Inhibition of EGFR restores sensitivity to regorafenib, and the combination of gefitinib and regorafenib demonstrates significant antitumor efficacy both in vivo and in vitro. These findings suggest that this combination could be a potential strategy for patients with advanced HCC.