bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral Mycobiome Alterations in Postmenopausal Women: Links to Inflammation, Xerostomia, and Systemic Health
Authors: Bogdan-Andreescu Claudia Florina , Bănățeanu Andreea-Mariana , Albu Cristina-Crenguţa , Poalelungi Cristian-Viorel , Botoacă Oana , Damian Constantin Marian , Dȋră Laurențiu Mihai , Albu Ştefan-Dimitrie , Brăila Matei Georgian , Cadar Emin , Brăila Anca Daniela
Published: November 2024

The oral mycobiome plays a critical role in maintaining oral and systemic health, with its composition and function influenced by various physiological and environmental factors. This descriptive review explores the changes in the oral mycobiome among postmenopausal women, examining how aging and associated inflammatory processes contribute to these alterations. These changes are linked to an increased prevalence of xerostomia, oral dysbiosis, and inflammation, which can negatively impact both oral and systemic health. We discuss the impact of hormonal fluctuations and immune senescence on fungal diversity and abundance, highlighting key species implicated in oral and systemic diseases. The review also examines the role of systemic conditions and medications, which are common in postmenopausal women, in further exacerbating oral mycobiome alterations. Lastly, it highlights the need for future research to better understand these interactions and develop targeted therapeutic strategies. The current literature indicates a significant association between menopausal status, age-related mycobiome shifts, and increased inflammatory responses, suggesting potential pathways for intervention.
Tbp and Hprt1 Are Appropriate Reference Genes for Splenic Neutrophils Isolated from Healthy or Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Sounbuli Khetam , Alekseeva Ludmila A. , Sen’kova Aleksandra V. , Savin Innokenty A. , Zenkova Marina A. , Mironova Nadezhda L.
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Neutrophils have recently gained significant attention due to their heterogeneity in tumor settings. The gene expression profiles of neutrophils from different tumor types are of great interest. Murine splenic neutrophils reflect the immune status of the organism and could be a source of tumor-associated neutrophils in tumor-bearing mice. However, information about appropriate reference genes for RT-qPCR analysis of murine neutrophils in the literature is lacking. The aim of this study was to identify stably expressed reference genes in murine splenic neutrophils. Methods: Bone marrow- and spleen-derived neutrophils were isolated from healthy C57Bl/6 and CBA/LacSto mice. Spleen-derived neutrophils were isolated from mice with Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) and drug-resistant lymphosarcoma (RLS40). RNA was isolated and used for RT-qPCR analysis of 10 selected reference genes. Analysis of reference gene stability was performed using four different algorithms (BestKeeper, NormFinder, geNorm, ΔCt method), and comprehensive ranking was constructed using RefFinder. Results: The Ct values for the reference genes were in the range of 16.73–30.83 with the highest expression levels observed for B2m and the lowest for Sdha. Differences in the stability ranking performed by different algorithms were observed; however, the overall ranking of the studied reference genes was as follows, from most to least stably expressed: Tbp, Hprt1, Ywhaz, B2m, Gapdh, Actb, Sdha, Eef2, Rack1, and Rpl13a. Using Tbp or Rpl13a for RT-qPCR data normalization significantly affected the interpretation of target gene expression. Conclusions: Tbp and Hprt1 are recommended reference genes for murine splenic neutrophils regardless of their activation status.
Alginate–Poly[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium Chloride (PMETAC) Immunoisolating Capsules Prolong the Viability of Pancreatic Islets In Vivo
Authors: Ermakova Polina , Vasilchikova Ekaterina , Potapov Arseniy , Baten’kin Maxim , Lugovaya Liya , Bogomolova Alexandra , Tselousova Julia , Konev Alexey , Anisimova Natalia , Egoshina Alena , Zakharina Mariya , Naraliev Nasipbek , Kuchin Denis , Zagainov Vladimir , Chesnokov Sergey , Kashina Aleksandra , Zagaynova Elena
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: This study focuses on the development and evaluation of novel alginate–poly[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium chloride (PMETAC) microcapsules for encapsulating pancreatic islets to address insulin deficiency in diabetes. Methods: In previous research, we fabricated and characterized PMETAC microcapsules, evaluating their stability and permeability in vitro. This study further probes the capsules in vivo, focusing on the functional activity of the encapsulated islets post-transplantation, their viability extension, and the assessment of the immunoprotective, antifibrotic properties, and biostability of the capsules. Results: Rabbit-derived islets were encapsulated and transplanted into diabetic rats. The encapsulated islets maintained insulin secretion for up to 90 days, significantly longer than non-encapsulated ones, which ceased functioning after 7 days. Histological analysis demonstrated high biocompatibility of the PMETAC coating, resulting in minimal fibrotic overgrowth around the capsules. Conclusions: The study highlights the critical role of immunoprotection and the tendency to reduce fibrosis in prolonging islet function. These findings suggest that PMETAC-coated capsules offer a promising solution for cell-based therapies in diabetes by improving graft longevity and reducing fibrotic overgrowth.
Iota-Carrageenan from Marine Alga Solieria filiformis Prevents Naproxen-Induced Gastrointestinal Injury via Its Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Pinheiro João L. S. , Sousa Willer M. , Rodrigues Lucas H. M. , Bezerra Francisco F. , Cunha Cecília L. O. A. , Santos Victória M. R. , Oliveira Samara R. B. D. , Bingana Rudy D. , Barbosa André Luiz. R. , Souza Marcellus H. L. P. , Freitas Ana Lúcia P. , Damasceno Renan O. S.
Published: November 2024

Background: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in therapy due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, their clinical use is often associated with gastrointestinal complications. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the protective effect of a sulfated iota-carrageenan isolated from the marine alga Solieria filiformis (IC-Sf) against naproxen-induced gastrointestinal injury. Methods: Parameters of gastrointestinal injury, secretory and motor functions, and toxicity were evaluated. Results: The results demonstrated that IC-Sf significantly reduced naproxen-induced gastrointestinal macroscopic injury, with a maximum effect observed at 30 mg/kg. IC-Sf also preserved gastrointestinal antioxidant defense and prevented lipid peroxidation, with a reduction in the non-protein sulfhydryl group (NP-SH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations induced by naproxen. Additionally, IC-Sf mitigated naproxen-induced gastrointestinal inflammation, as evidenced by reduced myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). IC-Sf did not alter gastric secretion or gastrointestinal motility. In addition, the animals treated with IC-Sf did not present toxic effects. Conclusions: In conclusion, IC-Sf protected the gastrointestinal tract against the harmful effects of naproxen by inhibiting the inflammatory response and lipid peroxidation, suggesting its potential as a new therapeutic agent or food additive.
Cardiotoxic and Cardioprotective Effects of Methylene Blue in the Animal Model of Cardiac Ischemia and Reperfusion
Authors: Fernandes Junior Hezio Jadir , de Araújo Erisvaldo Amarante , Machado Junior José Antônio , Lutz Motta Fabio Marinho , Guarize Gabriela Ferrazzano , Cheng Lucas Chen , Tantray Junaid , Medeiros Jand Venes Rolim , Nicolau Lucas Antonio Duarte , Barbosa Adriano Henrique Pereira , Caixeta Adriano , Rocco Isadora S. , Guizilini Solange , Pires-Oliveira Marcelo , Taha Murched Omar , Caricati-Neto Afonso , Gomes Walter José , Tallo Fernando Sabia , Menezes-Rodrigues Francisco Sandro
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Treatment of patients with myocardial ischemic diseases crucially involves cardiac reperfusion (CR). However, oxidative stress and tissue lesions caused by CR may also lead to lethal complications, such as arrythmias and vasoplegic syndrome (VS). Although methylene blue (MB) has long been used to treat VS due to cardiac ischemia and reperfusion (CIR) and/or surgery because of its vascular effects, MB’s effects on the heart are unclear. Therefore, we investigated the potential cardioprotective or arrhythmogenic effects of MB in an animal model of CIR. To this end, 12–16-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into four experimental groups: (a) rats subjected to SHAM surgery with no ischemia; (b) rats subjected to CIR and treated with a vehicle (SS + CIR); and (c) rats subjected to CIR and treated with 2 mg/kg i.v. MB before ischemia (MB + ISQ) or (d) after ischemia but before reperfusion (ISQ + MB). An ECG analysis was used to evaluate the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs), atrioventricular blocks (AVBs), and lethality (LET) resulting from CIR. After CIR, rat hearts were removed for histopathological analysis and lipid hydroperoxide (LH) measurements. Results: The incidence of VA, AVB, and LET was significantly increased in the MB + ISQ group (VA = 100%; AVB = 100%; LET = 100%) but significantly reduced in the ISQ + MB group (VA = 42.8%; AVB = 28.5%; LET = 21.4%) compared with the SS + CIR group (VA = 85.7%; AVB = 71.4%; LET = 64.2%). LH concentration was significantly reduced in both MB-treated groups, but myocardial injuries were increased only in the MB + ISQ group when compared with the SS + CIR group. Conclusions: These results indicate that MB produces a biphasic effect on CIR, with cardiotoxic effects when administered before cardiac ischemia and cardioprotective effects when administered after ischemia but before cardiac reperfusion.
Off-Label Use of Monoclonal Antibodies for Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Humans: A Scoping Review
Authors: Yang Benyu , Li Wenhan , Gao Yiqiang , Zhang Bo , Zuo Wei
Published: November 2024

Background: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a rare, chronic immune-mediated disorder with limited treatment options. Despite the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of dupilumab for EoE, other monoclonal antibodies remain unapproved and are used off-label with limited evidence on their efficacy and safety. This systematic review rigorously and comprehensively evaluates the evidence for monoclonal antibody therapies used off-label to treat EoE. Methods: We conducted a systematic review across PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central, and ClinicalTrials.gov, assessing the efficacy and safety of off-label monoclonal antibodies in EoE through clinical outcomes and the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data. Results: Among ten monoclonal antibodies reviewed, mepolizumab that targets IL-5 showed the most promise with a moderate recommendation based on Level 2 evidence. Others like omalizumab (anti-IgE), dectrekumab (anti-IL-13), and reslizumab (anti-IL-5) showed limited utility. Safety evaluations via the FAERS database revealed significant adverse drug reactions, including serious events like asthmatic crises, pneumonia, and adrenal insufficiency for mepolizumab and reslizumab, as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and gastroenteritis for omalizumab. Dectrekumab’s safety profile remains unclear due to a lack of data. Conclusions: While mepolizumab demonstrates potential as an off-label treatment, none of the antibodies reviewed have FDA approval for EoE. Clinicians should consider the balance between local and systemic effects and exercise caution, closely monitoring for adverse effects, particularly in patients with respiratory comorbidities. Continued research is crucial to establish a more robust evidence base for these therapies.
Angiogenesis of Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head: A Classic Treatment Strategy
Authors: Wang Ping , Shao Wenkai , Wang Yuxi , Wang Bo , Lv Xiao , Feng Yong
Published: November 2024

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) is a type of osteonecrosis due to the cessation of blood supply, characterized by persistent local pain and collapse of the joint. The etiology of ANFH is multifaceted, and while its precise pathogenesis remains elusive, it is currently widely believed that the femoral head is highly dependent on the vascular system. A large number of studies have shown that vascular injury is the initial factor in the onset of ANFH. In this review, we briefly introduced the process of angiogenesis and the blood supply to the femoral head, with a focus on summarizing the existing research on promoting angiogenesis for the treatment of ANFH. We conclude that providing alternative pathways through angiogenesis to resolve the problem of the obstructed free flow of the blood is an important means of treating ANFH. Moreover, we also looked forward to the mechanism of endothelial metabolism, which has not yet been studied in femoral head necrosis models, providing potential strategies for more effective use of angiogenesis for the treatment of femoral head necrosis.
CLIC4 Is a New Biomarker for Glioma Prognosis
Authors: Liu Zhichun , Liu Junhui , Chen Zhibiao , Zhu Xiaonan , Ding Rui , Huang Shulan , Xu Haitao
Published: November 2024

Background: Chloride Intracellular Channel 4 (CLIC4) plays a versatile role in cellular functions beyond its role in primary chloride ion transport. Notably, many studies found an association between CLIC4 expression and cancers. However, the correlation between CLIC4 and glioma remains to be uncovered. Methods: A total of 3162 samples from nine public datasets were analyzed to reveal the relationship between CLIC4 expression and glioma malignancy or prognosis. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was performed to examine the results in an in-house cohort. A nomogram model was constructed to predict the prognosis. Functional enrichment analysis was employed to find CLIC4-associated differentially expressed genes in glioma. Immune infiltration analysis, correlation analysis, and IHC staining were employed, aiming to examine the correlation between CLIC4 expression, immune cell infiltration, and ECM (extracellular matrix)-related genes. Results: The expression level of CLIC4 was correlated with the malignancy of glioma and the prognosis of patients. More aggressive gliomas and mesenchymal GBM are associated with a high expression of CLIC4. Gliomas with IDH mutation or 1p19q codeletion express a low level of CLIC4, and a high expression of CLIC4 correlates with poor prognosis. The nomogram model shows a good predictive performance. The DEGs (differentially expressed genes) in gliomas with high and low CLIC4 expression are enriched in extracellular matrix and immune functions. On the one hand, gliomas with high CLIC4 expression have a greater presence of macrophages, neutrophils, and eosinophils; on the other hand, a high CLIC4 expression in gliomas is positively associated with ECM-related genes. Conclusions: Compared to glioma cells with low CLIC4 expression, gliomas with high CLIC4 expression exhibit greater malignancy and poorer prognosis. Our findings indicate that a high level of CLIC4 correlates with high expression of ECM-related genes and the infiltration of macrophages, neutrophils, and eosinophils within glioma tissues.
The Development of a Brief but Comprehensive Therapeutic Assessment Protocol for the Screening and Support of Youth in the Community to Address the Youth Mental Health Crisis
Authors: Weiss Margaret Danielle , Richards Eleanor Castine , Bien-Aime Danta , Witkowski Taylor , Williams Peyton , Holmes Katie E. , Cortes Dharma E. , Tepper Miriam C. , Wang Philip S. , Aldis Rajendra , Carson Nicholas , Cook Benjamin Le
Published: November 2024

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the acceptability and feasibility of a therapeutic assessment protocol for the Screening and Support of Youth (SASY). SASY provides brief but comprehensive community-based screening and support for diverse youth in the community. Methods: SASY screening evaluates symptoms, functioning and clinical risk. The Kiddie Computerized Adaptive Test was used to evaluate seven different diagnoses and symptom severity. The Weiss Functional Impairment Rating Scale-Self was used to measure functional impairment. Measures were scored according to nationally developed norms. An algorithm was developed to aggregate symptom and function ratings into an overall score for clinical risk. The results are discussed with participants in a motivational interview designed to promote insight, followed by the opportunity for the participant to engage in an online intervention. Protocol changes necessitated by social distancing during the pandemic led to innovative methods including the use of a QR code for recruitment, integration of both online and offline participation, and expansion from in-person recruitment within the schools to virtual engagement with youth throughout the community. The final sample included disproportionately more Black or African American and Hispanic youth as compared to school and community statistics, suggesting that optimization of online and offline methods in research may facilitate the recruitment of diverse populations. Qualitative interviews indicated that the screening and feedback raised youth awareness of their wellbeing and/or distress, its impact on their functioning, and engagement with options for improved wellbeing. Conclusions: The emergence of innovative methods optimizing the advantages of both online and offline methods, developed as a necessity during the pandemic, proved advantageous to the feasibility and acceptability of community-based recruitment of at-risk, minoritized youth.
Optimizing Outdoor Thermal Comfort for Educational Buildings: Case Study in the City of Riyadh
Authors: Binabid Jamil , Alymani Abdulrahman , Alammar Ammar
Published: November 2024

In hot, arid climates, educational buildings often face the challenge of limited outdoor space usage. This research, through comprehensive simulation, aims to propose practical solutions to enhance outdoor thermal comfort, particularly during school break times and student dismissal periods, thereby fostering more comfortable and functional outdoor school environments. That will happen through achieving the main objective of the study, which is evaluating the suggested passive strategies. Riyadh was selected as the case study, and four representative schools were analyzed through simulation and optimization processes to identify key areas for improvement. The research leveraged simulation tools such as Ladybug and Grasshopper in Rhino, highlighting the practicality and impact of this approach. Simulations were performed to assess the existing outdoor thermal conditions using the universal thermal climate index (UTCI) and to pinpoint regions with elevated thermal discomfort. Passive design interventions, such as shading devices and vegetation, were explored and optimized using the Galapagos in Grasshopper. This methodology supports the originality of this research in its integration of simulation tools, such as Ladybug and Grasshopper, with optimization techniques using the Galapagos plugin, specifically applied to the unique site-specific context of educational outdoor environments in a hot, dry climate in Riyadh. Additionally, insights for urban planners and architects demonstrate the possibility of integrating passive design principles to improve the usability and sustainability of outdoor spaces. The findings indicated that fewer apertures in shade devices combined with greater tree canopies might double the effectivity in lowering UTCI values, thereby enhancing thermal comfort, especially during peak summer months.
The Impact of Built Environment in Shanghai Neighborhoods on the Physical and Mental Health of Elderly Residents: Validation of a Chain Mediation Model Using Deep Learning and Big Data Methods
Authors: Fang Zhiguo , Jin Chenghao , Liu Cong
Published: November 2024

As urban aging issues intensify, the impact of the built environment in urban neighborhoods on the physical and mental health of elderly residents has garnered increasing attention. Previous studies have demonstrated that the built environment is related to various health outcomes; however, most empirical research typically focuses on the objective physical environment, lacking measurements of subjective environmental perceptions. This study, using 24 neighborhoods in Shanghai as case studies, employed deep learning, big data methods, and surveys to collect 462 valid questionnaires from elderly residents. Structural equation modeling was applied to explore the relationship between the built environment and the physical and mental health of elderly residents, incorporating respondents’ subjective perceptions, physical activity, and neighborhood relationships as chain mediation effects. The results indicate that although there is no direct relationship between the built environment and the mental health of elderly residents, the built environment positively impacts mental health through enhancing subjective.
Framework of Scan to Building Information Modeling for Geometric Defect Localization in Railway Track Maintenance
Authors: Mahmood Bilawal , Kim Seok
Published: November 2024

Railway transportation plays a vital role in modern society, enabling the safe and efficient movement of people and goods over long distances. To ensure the longevity and safety of a railway infrastructure, the regular maintenance of tracks is crucial. Traditional track inspections, conducted manually to monitor geometric parameters and to identify defects, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to human error. Current Scan-to-BIM frameworks for railway maintenance also lack standardized methods for extracting geometric parameters that can be easily integrated into Building Information Modeling (BIM). Additionally, the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standard, used for BIM data exchange, does not support storing parameter values at specific chainage points along the track, limiting defect localization. A framework is proposed to address these challenges by standardizing the extraction of geometric parameters from point cloud data and ensuring seamless integration with BIM. The framework calculates parameters at station chainage points and generates additional chainage points along the track, associating the data with the corresponding chainage. A case study demonstrates the framework’s ability to enhance defect localization, using the EN 13848-5 European Standard to identify defects at specific chainages. Ultimately, this approach contributes to the more effective lifecycle management of railway tracks.
Experimental Test and Analytical Calculation on Residual Strength of Prestressed Concrete T-Beams After Fire
Authors: Wang Zhongqiang , Xu Chao , Chen Miao , Sun Jingwei , Zhou Hangke , Zhou Yingxin
Published: November 2024

High temperatures during a fire can lead to the evaporation of moisture and the degradation of hydration products within concrete, consequently compromising its mechanical properties. This paper thoroughly investigates the effect of fire-induced high temperatures on the residual load-bearing capacity of concrete structures, with a focus on prestressed concrete T-beams. By conducting constant temperature tests and residual load-bearing capacity tests, complemented by finite element modeling, this study examines the degradation of mechanical properties in prestressed concrete T-beams due to fire exposure and its impact on post-fire residual load-bearing capacity. Additionally, an equivalent concrete compressive strength method was employed to propose a calculation method for concrete material degradation under high temperatures and a corresponding concrete strength reduction factor. Simplified calculations were also performed for the high-temperature damage to reinforcement and prestressed tendons, leading to the derivation of a simplified formula for the residual load-bearing capacity of post-fire prestressed concrete T-beams. The results indicate that in prestressed concrete T-beams exposed to fire, an increase in holding time results in more severe damage modes, accelerated crack propagation, and wider crack widths during bending failure. Under the same load, a longer holding time corresponds to a more pronounced reduction in deflection. At holding times of 60 min, 120 min, and 180 min, the prestress losses were 48.17%, 85.16%, and 93.26%, respectively. The cracking load decreased by 15%, 27%, and 42%, while the residual load-bearing capacity decreased by 11%, 21%, and 28%. Comparison with experimental data demonstrates that both the finite element model and the simplified calculation formula exhibit high accuracy, offering a reliable reference for the performance evaluation of post-fire prestressed concrete T-beams.
Study on the Correlation Between Mechanical Properties, Water Absorption, and Bulk Density of PVA Fiber-Reinforced Cement Matrix Composites
Authors: Xu Wen , Yao Junyi , Wang Tao , Wang Fan , Li Jiaxuan , Gong Yuanjie , Zhang Yonggang , Wu Jianqiu , Sun Min , Han Lei
Published: November 2024

Fiber-reinforced cement matrix composites (CMCs) have gained significant attention due to their ability to enhance material properties for use in demanding environments. This study investigated the workability and mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber-reinforced CMCs, focusing on compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength. It also assessed water absorption capacity through immersive water absorption tests using cubes and capillary water absorption tests using cylinders, alongside bulk density measurements for both shapes. The results indicated that the dosage of PVA fibers significantly influences the workability of CMCs, while the water-to-binder ratio has a minimal effect. Increasing the dosage of PVA fibers in CMCs from 0.5 vol.% to 1 vol.% led to a decrease in several properties: compressive strength decreased by 13.38%, split tensile strength by 21.05%, flexural strength by 9.23%, bulk density of cube samples by 4.14%, and bulk density of cylindrical sample by 6.36%. Conversely, both immersive water absorption and capillary water absorption increased, rising by 10.87% and 77.71%, respectively. Compressive strength was found to increase with the bulk density of the cubes and to decrease with rising immersive water absorption. Similarly, split tensile strength increased with the bulk density of the cylinders and decreased as capillary water absorption increased. Strong correlations were observed among three key pairwise combinations: the bulk density of cubes and immersive water absorption (R2 = 94%), compressive strength and bulk density of cubes (R2 = 96%), and compressive strength and immersive water absorption (R2 = 92%). Furthermore, the analysis and comparison of carbon fiber-reinforced and PVA fiber-reinforced CMCs will provide important references for the field, especially in cases where material availability or cost varies.
Improving Equipment Maintenance—Switching from Corrective to Preventative Maintenance Strategies
Authors: West Jye , Siddhpura Milind , Evangelista Ana , Haddad Assed
Published: November 2024

This paper explores different building maintenance strategies in commercial buildings in Sydney, Australia, focusing on corrective maintenance (CM) and preventive maintenance (PM). While CM involves rectifying issues after they occur, PM aims to enhance productivity by anticipating potential issues. Although PM seems more logical, the decision to implement this type of maintenance strategy are typically made based on item reliability, failure frequency, and downtime cost, commonly found in manufacturing facilities or critical environments. However, as found in the selected/surveyed commercial real estate buildings, CM was more frequently adopted in aged facilities with older infrastructure, and PM was favoured for buildings without structural deficiencies; however, operating equipment failures were common. However, in many cases, decision makers did not consider the broader effects of downtime beyond direct financial losses, costs associated with customer satisfaction, worker efficiency, rent abatements, and reputation damage. While each building is unique and may require a bespoke maintenance schedule, this study’s insights may help managers select the most appropriate maintenance strategy. Nonetheless, further research is needed to investigate the role of innovative technologies (such as machine learning and artificial intelligence) in enhancing maintenance efficacy and explore the influences of economic shifts, corporate and financial objectives, and the availability of technical resources.
The Application of High-Frequency Ultrasonography in Post-Therapeutic Assessment of Actinic Keratosis After Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Korecka Katarzyna , Slian Anna , Czajkowska Joanna , Dańczak-Pazdrowska Aleksandra , Polańska Adriana
Published: November 2024

Objectives: Actinic keratoses (AKs) are one of the most common reasons for consultation in the elderly population. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of 5-ALA PDT in AK treatment using high-frequency ultrasonography (HFUS) to evaluate skin layer changes during therapy. Methods: In our study, we included 44 AK patients aged 53 to 89 years. All patients had lesions clinically evaluated with the Olsen and AKASI scale. HFUS imaging was performed on seemingly healthy skin and lesions before and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks of therapy. Ultrasound markers such as skin thickness, echogenicity, and pixel intensity were measured. 5-ALA was applied under occlusion for 3 h. After removing the occlusive dressing, 5-ALA was removed with a saline solution and a directed therapy with a BF-200 lamp. Full follow-ups of 56 markers of suitable quality were selected. Results: The thickness of SLEB significantly decreased in the following weeks compared to the pre-therapy results, reaching its lowest values after 12 weeks. The average pixel intensity significantly increased in each skin layer after therapy (p < 0.01). For SLEB, there were statistically significant differences in LEP, MEP and contrast. The AKASI score before and after treatment was determined for the 39 patients who underwent follow-up at week 12. The median AKASI score was 3.2 (1.2–8.6) before treatment and 0.6 (0–2.8) after. Conclusions: According to the literature data, this is the first study describing the ALA-PDT treatment efficacy in different AK severities evaluated in HFUS. HFUS provides a valuable non-invasive tool for monitoring the efficacy of PDT in AK treatment, showing significant improvements in skin texture and structure.
Should We Offer Universal Germline Genetic Testing to All Patients with Pancreatic Cancer? A Multicenter Study
Authors: Llach Joan , Luzko Irina , Earl Julie , Barreto Emma , Rodríguez-Garrote Mercedes , Lleixà Marc , Herrera-Pariente Cristina , Fernández Guerau , Munoz Jenifer , Bonjoch Laia , Saurí Tamara , Ausania Fabio , Ocaña Teresa , Moreno Lorena , Grau Elia , Oriola Josep , Alvarez-Mora Maria Isabel , Herreros-Villanueva Marta , Castellví-Bel Sergi , Balaguer Francesc , Bujanda Luis , Moreira Leticia
Published: November 2024

Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with a significant percentage of germline pathogenic variants (GPVs). Unlike in the United States, routine universal genetic testing is not performed in Europe. The aim of the study is to evaluate the diagnostic yield of germline genetic testing in all patients with PDAC. Methods: Individuals with newly diagnosed PDAC from three Spanish hospitals were enrolled, regardless of family history. Thirteen known susceptibility genes for PDAC were studied using a multigene panel or whole-exome sequencing. Results: One hundred seventy-nine PDAC patients underwent genetic testing. Fourteen (7.8%) had a GPV or likely pathogenic variant In the genes studied: six in ATM, six in BRCA2, one in PALB2, and one in TP53. Of these, seven (50%) did not meet the clinical criteria for genetic study and would have been classified as sporadic PDAC. Presenting with a personal history of any other neoplasm was associated with some GPV, with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.5 (1.1–11.5). A family history of PDAC and breast cancer was also associated with some GPV, with oRs of 3.7 (1.08–13.6) and 8.5 (2.6–26.6), respectively. None of the patients over 60 years without a relevant family history of malignancies presented a GPV associated with PDAC. Conclusions: In our PDAC cohort, a noteworthy number of GPVs were identified, and half of these patients would have been classified as sporadic based solely on clinical criteria. Genetic testing should always be considered, particularly in patients under 60 years or those with a history of other malignancies, especially where economic resources need optimization.
Novelty Classification Model Use in Reinforcement Learning for Cervical Cancer
Authors: Muksimova Shakhnoza , Umirzakova Sabina , Shoraimov Khusanboy , Baltayev Jushkin , Cho Young-Im
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Cervical cancer significantly impacts global health, where early detection is piv- otal for improving patient outcomes. This study aims to enhance the accuracy of cervical cancer diagnosis by addressing class imbalance through a novel hybrid deep learning model. Methods: The proposed model, RL-CancerNet, integrates EfficientNetV2 and Vision Transformers (ViTs) within a Reinforcement Learning (RL) framework. EfficientNetV2 extracts local features from cervical cytology images to capture fine-grained details, while ViTs analyze these features to recognize global dependencies across image patches. To address class imbalance, an RL agent dynamically adjusts the focus towards minority classes, thus reducing the common bias towards majority classes in medical image classification. Additionally, a Supporter Module incorporating Conv3D and BiLSTM layers with an attention mechanism enhances contextual learning. Results: RL-CancerNet was evaluated on the benchmark cervical cytology datasets Herlev and SipaKMeD, achieving an exceptional accuracy of 99.7%. This performance surpasses several state-of-the-art models, demonstrating the model’s effectiveness in identifying subtle diagnostic features in complex backgrounds. Conclusions: The integration of CNNs, ViTs, and RL into RL-CancerNet significantly improves the diagnostic accuracy of cervical cancer screenings. This model not only advances the field of automated medical screening but also provides a scalable framework adaptable to other medical imaging tasks, potentially enhancing diagnostic processes across various medical domains.
Clinical Utility and Diagnostic Accuracy of ROMA, RMI, ADNEX, HE4, and CA125 in the Prediction of Malignancy in Adnexal Masses
Authors: Spagnol Giulia , Marchetti Matteo , Carollo Massimo , Bigardi Sofia , Tripepi Marta , Facchetti Emma , De Tommasi Orazio , Vitagliano Amerigo , Cavallin Francesco , Tozzi Roberto , Saccardi Carlo , Noventa Marco
Published: November 2024

Objective: We aimed to compare the clinical utility and diagnostic accuracy of the ADNEX model, ROMA score, RMI I, and RMI IV, as well as two serum markers (CA125 and HE4) in preoperative discrimination between benign and malignant adnexal masses (AMs). Methods: We conducted a retrospective study extracting all consecutive patients with AMs seen at our Institution between January 2015 and December 2020. Accuracy metrics included sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for basic discrimination between AMs. Model performance was evaluated in terms of discrimination ability and clinical utility (net benefit, NB). Results: A total of 581 women were included; 481 (82.8%) had a benign ovarian tumor and 100 (17.2%) had a malignant tumor. The SE and SP of CA125, HE4, ROMA score, RMI I, RMI IV, and ADNEX model were 0.60 (0.54–0.66) and 0.80 (0.76–0.83); 0.39 (0.30–0.49) and 0.96 (0.94–0.98); 0.59 (0.50–0.68) and 0.92 (0.88–0.95); 0.56 (0.46–0.65) and 0.98 (0.96–0.99); 0.54 (0.44–0.63) and 0.96 (0.94–0.98); 0.82 (0.73–0.88) and 0.91 (0.89–0.94), respectively. The overall AUC was 0.76 (0.74–0.79) for CA125, 0.81 (0.78–0.83) for HE4, 0.82 (0.80–0.85) for ROMA, 0.86 (0.84–0.88) for RMI I, 0.83 (0.81–0.86) for RMI IV, and 0.92 (0.90–0.94) for ADNEX. The NB for ADNEX was higher than other biomarkers and models across all decision thresholds between 5% and 50%. Conclusions: The ADNEX model showed a better discrimination ability and clinical utility when differentiating malignant from benign Ams, compared to CA125, HE4, ROMA score, RMI I, and RMI IV.
Polyphenolic Compounds Activate SERCA1a and Attenuate Methylglyoxal- and Palmitate-Induced Impairment in Pancreatic INS-1E Beta Cells
Authors: Heger Vladimir , Benesova Barbora , Majekova Magdalena , Rezbarikova Petronela , Hunyadi Attila , Horakova Lubica , Viskupicova Jana
Published: November 2024

Sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) is an important regulatory protein responsible for maintaining calcium homeostasis within cells. Impairment of SERCA associated with activity/expression decrease has been implicated in multiple chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and skeletal muscle pathologies. Natural polyphenols have been recognized to interact with several target proteins involving SERCA. To date, only a limited number of polyphenolic compounds or their derivatives have been described either to increase SERCA activity/expression directly or to affect Ca2+ signaling pathways. In this study, we tested polyphenols for their ability to activate SERCA1a in the absence or presence of methylglyoxal or palmitate and to impact insulin release in pancreatic beta cells. The protective effects of these compounds against methylglyoxal- or palmitate-induced injury were evaluated. Results indicate that 6-gingerol, resveratrol, and ellagic acid activate SERCA1a and protect against activity decrease induced by methylglyoxal and palmitate. Molecular docking analysis revealed the binding of these polyphenols to Glu439 in the SERCA1a P-domain, suggesting a critical role in the stimulation of enzyme activity. Ellagic acid was found to directly stimulate the activity of SERCA1a, marking the first instance of such an observation.
CD47 in Osteosarcoma: Correlation with Metastasis and Macrophage-Mediated Phagocytosis
Authors: Ko Yunmi , Park Seog-Yun , Park Jong Woong , Kim June Hyuk , Kang Hyun Guy , Lee Jun Ah
Published: November 2024

CD47 is expressed on cell surfaces and acts as a “don’t eat me” signal by interacting with signal-regulatory protein-α on the macrophage surface. Some cancer cells express CD47 protein and can evade macrophage phagocytosis. Herein, we evaluated the feasibility of targeting CD47 for osteosarcoma by analyzing its expression patterns, clinicopathological correlations, and immunotherapeutic potential. We performed a retrospective analysis on 24 biopsy samples from patients with osteosarcoma to investigate correlations between CD47 protein positivity and clinicopathological characteristics. CD47 protein expression was detected in 20.8% of the biopsy samples. CD47 positivity correlated with metastasis at diagnosis. Patients with CD47-positive tumors were older than those with CD47-negative tumors. However, CD47 protein expression was not associated with sex, tumor size, or histologic response to preoperative chemotherapy. In vitro, CD47 antibody (B6H12) did not affect osteosarcoma cell viability or apoptosis. In a wound-healing assay, CD47 inhibited the migration of osteosarcoma cells. Differentiated macrophages exhibited higher phagocytic activity against osteosarcoma cells when pretreated with B6H12 compared with the isotype control. Our preliminary data suggest a possible interaction between CD47 protein and macrophage phagocytosis in osteosarcoma metastasis. A better understanding of the role of CD47 is necessary to develop an innovative immunotherapeutic approach against osteosarcoma.
Correction: Huynh et al. Spike Protein Impairs Mitochondrial Function in Human Cardiomyocytes: Mechanisms Underlying Cardiac Injury in COVID-19. Cells 2023, 12, 877
Authors: Huynh Tin Van , Rethi Lekha , Lee Ting-Wei , Higa Satoshi , Kao Yu-Hsun , Chen Yi-Jen
Published: November 2024

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Pathophysiology of Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Brockwell Maximilian , Hergenrother Sean , Satariano Matthew , Shah Raghav , Raina Rupesh
Published: November 2024

Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) represent a broad range of diseases with differing mechanisms, clinical presentations, and prognoses. With an estimated prevalence of between 4 and 60 per 10,000 births, CAKUT represents a sizable number of patients for pediatric and adult nephrologists as therapies have progressed, allowing longer life spans. Many CAKUT disorders are associated with genetic mutations, and with advances in genomic sequencing, these genes are being identified at an increasing rate. Understanding these mutations provides insight into these conditions’ molecular mechanisms and pathophysiology. In this article, we discuss the epidemiology, presentation, and outcomes of CAKUT in addition to our current understanding of genetic and molecular mechanisms in these diseases.
Nanomaterial-Based Electrochemical Sensors for the Detection of Pharmaceutical Drugs
Authors: Malode Shweta J. , Ali Alshehri Mohammed , Shetti Nagaraj P.
Published: November 2024

The rapidly increasing human population has led to new biological and environmental challenges. These challenges, in turn, have contributed to the rapid growth of the pharmaceutical sector. Quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing and drug delivery necessitates portable, sensitive, precise, and cost-effective devices to monitor patient dosing and assess pharmaceutical hazards. This study highlights the attributes and applications of the current nanomaterial-based sensors for drug detection, emphasizing the potential of these devices to advance the detection of bioactive molecules, thereby promoting human health and environmental protection on a large scale. Electrochemical sensors, in particular, have become invaluable in bioimaging, electrochemical analysis, and drug delivery due to their high specificity, selectivity, and stability across cycles. This review focuses on recent advancements in electrochemical devices for healthcare applications, detailing their production, analytical performance, and clinical uses.
Increasing the Use of Newborn Pain Treatment Following the Implementation of a Parent-Targeted Video: An Outcome Evaluation
Authors: Smith Michaela A. , Dunn Sandra I. , Larocque Catherine , Wilding Jodi , Campbell-Yeo Marsha , Gilmore Lucy , Harrold JoAnn , Hu Jiale , Lavin Venegas Carolina , Modanloo Shokoufeh , Nicholls Stuart G. , O’Flaherty Pat , Sadrudin Premji Shahirose , Reszel Jessica , Semenic Sonia , Squires Janet E. , Stevens Bonnie , Trepanier Marie-Josee , Venter Kathy , Harrison Denise
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Despite strong evidence that breastfeeding, skin-to-skin care, and sucrose reduce pain in newborns during minor painful procedures, these interventions remain underutilized in practice. To address this knowledge-to-practice gap, we produced a five-minute parent-targeted video demonstrating the analgesic effects of these strategies and examined whether the use of newborn pain treatment increased in maternal–newborn care settings following the introduction of the video by nurses. Methods: The design was a pre–post outcome evaluation. The participants were infants born in eight maternal–newborn hospital units in Ontario, Canada. Data on newborn pain treatment were obtained from a provincial birth registry. Descriptive statistics and chi square tests were used to compare the before-and-after changes in the use of pain treatment. Results: Data on 15,524 infants were included. Overall, there was an increase in the proportion of newborns receiving any pain treatment comparing before (49%) and after (54%) the video intervention (p < 0.0001) and a decrease in the proportion of newborns receiving no pain treatment pre- (17.6%) and post-intervention (11.5%) (p < 0.0001). Most of the change aligned with increased sucrose use (35% to 47%, p < 0.0001) in three of the larger units. Nevertheless, considerable increases in the use of breastfeeding and/or skin-to-skin care (24% to 38%, p < 0.0001) were also observed in three of the smaller units. Conclusions: The video intervention was effective at increasing the use of pain treatment for newborns. Though the overall increases were modest, there were some large increases for specific methods of pain treatment in certain maternal–newborn units, reflecting the diversity in practice and context across different sites.
The Impact of Parental Depressive, Anxiety, and Stress Symptoms on Adolescents’ Mental Health and Quality of Life: The Moderating Role of Parental Rejection
Authors: Sofrona Eirini , Giannakopoulos Georgios
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Parental internalizing issues, particularly maternal mental health, can significantly influence adolescents’ mental health by altering parenting behaviors and roles. This study explores the role of parental rejection in moderating the relationship between parental depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms and adolescents’ mental health and quality of life. Methods: One hundred thirty eight mothers (mean age: 47.96, SD = 5.06 years) and 68 fathers (mean age: 51.07, SD = 5.53 years) of adolescents aged 12–18 completed measures on mental health, parental rejection, and adolescent well-being. Results: Maternal rejection was found to moderate the relationship between maternal anxiety symptoms and adolescents’ quality of life, as well as between maternal anxiety symptoms and adolescents’ mental health problems. Paternal rejection moderated the relationship between paternal stress symptoms and adolescents’ mental health. However, parental rejection did not moderate the relationship between parental depression and adolescents’ quality of life or mental health. Conclusions: These findings highlight the distinct roles of maternal and paternal rejection in adolescent development and suggest that parental mental health, particularly anxiety and stress, has a significant impact on adolescent well-being. Future studies should consider the influence of both parents and focus on longitudinal effects. These results emphasize the need for interventions addressing parental rejection to improve adolescent outcomes.
Affording Social Experience for Adolescents Using Immersive Virtual Reality: A Moderated Mediation Analysis
Authors: Li Gege , Luo Heng , Yin Xin , Zhang Yan , Li Zijian
Published: November 2024

Background: Immersive virtual reality (IVR) serves as a promising tool to provide adolescents with enriched social experience due to its high-fidelity simulations and multimodal interaction. This study aims to design and develop a multi-user IVR collaborative game utilizing simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM)-based inside-out tracking technique to foster social experience among students. Also, this study explored the mechanism by which technology acceptance affected social experience in the IVR collaboration game, focusing on the mediating effects of presence, collective efficacy, and group effectiveness, as well as the moderating effect of social–emotional competence (SEC). Methods: A total of 104 seventh graders from a middle school in Central China participated in this study and completed the questionnaire. Finally, 87 valid questionnaire responses were retrieved. Results: The results revealed that technology acceptance both directly and indirectly influenced social experience. The mediation analysis revealed a key pathway influencing social experience: technology acceptance → presence → collective efficacy → group effectiveness → social experience. However, no moderating effect of SEC was found in the relationship between technology acceptance and social experience, group effectiveness, and social experience. Conclusions: Based on these results, more appropriate IVR interventions could be developed for social–emotional learning among children and adolescents.