Life, Volume 13, Issue 9 (September 2023) – 157 articles

Breast cancer, a leading cause of female mortality worldwide, poses a significant health challenge. Recent advancements in deep learning techniques have revolutionized breast cancer pathology by enabling accurate image classification. Various imaging methods, such as mammography, CT, MRI, ultrasound, and biopsies, aid in breast cancer detection. Computer-assisted pathological image classification is of paramount importance for breast cancer diagnosis. This study introduces a novel approach to breast cancer histopathological image classification. It leverages modified pre-trained CNN models and attention mechanisms to enhance model interpretability and robustness, emphasizing localized features and enabling accurate discrimination of complex cases. Our method involves transfer learning with deep CNN models—Xception, VGG16, ResNet50, MobileNet, and DenseNet121—augmented with the convolutional block attention module (CBAM). The pre-trained models are finetuned, and the two CBAM models are incorporated at the end of the pre-trained models. The models are compared to state-of-the-art breast cancer diagnosis approaches and tested for accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. The confusion matrices are used to evaluate and visualize the results of the compared models. They help in assessing the models’ performance. The test accuracy rates for the attention mechanism (AM) using the Xception model on the “BreakHis” breast cancer dataset are encouraging at 99.2% and 99.5%. The test accuracy for DenseNet121 with AMs is 99.6%. The proposed approaches also performed better than previous approaches examined in the related studies. Full article

Background: The International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade and positive surgical margins (PSMs) after radical prostatectomy (RP) may reflect the prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa) patients. This study aimed to investigate whether DCE-MRI parameters (i.e., K^trans, k_ep, and IAUC) could predict ISUP grade and PSMs after RP. Method: Forty-five PCa patients underwent preoperative DCE-MRI. The clinical characteristics and DCE-MRI parameters of the 45 patients were compared between the low- and high-risk (i.e., ISUP grades III-V) groups and between patients with or without PSMs after RP. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the significant predictors of placement in the high-risk group and PSMs. Results: The DCE parameter K^trans-max was significantly higher in the high-risk group than in the low-risk group (p = 0.028) and was also a significant predictor of placement in the high-risk group (odds ratio [OR] = 1.032, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.005–1.060, p = 0.021). Patients with PSMs had significantly higher prostate-specific antigen (PSA) titers, positive biopsy core percentages, K^trans-max, k_ep-median, and k_ep-max than others (all p < 0.05). Of these, positive biopsy core percentage (OR = 1.035, 95% CI = 1.003–1.068, p = 0.032) and k_ep-max (OR = 1.078, 95% CI = 1.012–1.148, p = 0.020) were significant predictors of PSMs. Conclusion: Preoperative DCE-MRI parameters, specifically K^trans-max and k_ep-max, could potentially serve as preoperative imaging biomarkers for postoperative PCa prognosis based on their predictability of PCa risk group and PSM on RP, respectively. Full article

Syndactyly is the most common congenital malformation of the hand, leading to the fusion of the digits and frequently affecting the ring and middle fingers. The incidence is 1 out of 2500 children, predominantly occurring in boys and Caucasians. Clinically, the malformation may present as a soft tissue or bony fusion, resulting in the union of the fingers characterised as complete or incomplete. This fusion may involve the phalanges but may also extend to the carpal/tarsal bones, even to the metacarpal or metatarsal level, rarely to the distal end of the forearm and lower leg. The malformation is mostly isolated but may occur together with other disorders or malformations such as synostosis, acro-syndactyly, cleft hand, clinodactyly, or polydactyly. Syndromic syndactyly can be observed in cases of Apert syndrome, Poland’s syndrome, Pfeiffer syndrome, and many others. A girl born in June of 2019 was diagnosed with congenital malformation of the right hand at birth—affecting the right middle, ring, and little fingers, respectively. After X-ray imaging, the fusion of the third and fourth proximal phalanges to a common metacarpal was identified, forming a unique diagnosis of clino-syndactyly with metacarpal aplasia. Surgical intervention was advocated for, including a wedge osteotomy to correct the synchondrosis at the phalangeal base and a dorsal flap to close the interdigital space created during the correction of the III and IV. fingers. A trapezoid flap for the release of the syndactyly of the IV and V. fingers was applied. The paper aims to present this surgical correction and its results regarding an atypical case of syndactyly with clinodactyly and metacarpal aplasia. Full article

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether modern congruent tibial inserts are associated with superior outcomes in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Background: Ultracongruent fixed-bearing (UCFB) and medial congruent fixed-bearing (MCFB) inserts have been known to be effective in total knee arthroplasty with patient satisfaction. Nonetheless, no supporting evidence to date exists to rank the clinical outcomes of these various congruent inserts in TKA compared with other important considerations in TKA including cruciate-retaining fixed-bearing (CRFB) and posterior-stabilized fixed-bearing (PSFB) inserts. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus up to 15 May 2022. We selected studies involving an active comparison of UCFB or MCFB in TKAs. We performed a network meta-analysis (NMA) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and compared different congruent inserts. We ranked the clinical outcomes by SUCRA score with the estimate of the best treatment probability. Our primary outcomes were revision rates and radiolucent lines. Secondary outcomes were functional scores, including the range of motion (ROM), the Knee Society Score (KSS), the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), and WOMAC. Results: Eighteen RCTs with 1793 participants were analyzed. Our NMA ranked MCFB, CRFB, and UCFB with the lowest revision rates. CRFB and UCFB had the fewest radiolucent lines. UCFB had overall the best ROM. UCFB and MCFB had the best OKS score overall. Conclusions: The ranking probability for better clinical outcomes in congruent inserts demonstrated the superiority of congruent tibial inserts, including UCFB and MCFB. UCFB may be associated with better ROM and postoperative functional outcomes. However, integrating future RCTs for high-level evidence is necessary to confirm these findings. Full article

Background: Patient-reported dry eye symptoms (DESs), assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and the Symptom Assessment iN Dry Eye (SANDE) questionnaires, were compared in a large sample of patients. Methods: The correlation (Spearman coefficient) and agreement (Bland-Altman analysis) between the OSDI and SANDE questionnaire scores (with and without score normalization) were assessed in 1033 patients and classified according to the OSDI score as non-DES and DES in a cross-sectional analysis. Results: The normalized and non-normalized SANDE results were higher than the OSDI results in all samples (2.83 ± 12.40 (p = 0.063) and 2.85 ± 15.95 (p = 0.016), respectively) and in non-DES (p > 0.063) and DES (p < 0.001) with both OSDI cutoff values. Weak correlations were found (Spearman coefficient <0.53; p < 0.001) in all cases except DES (0.12, p = 0.126). Weak agreement was found with a Bland-Altman analysis of the normalized and non-normalized scores of both questionnaires (mean difference from −7.67 ± 29.17 (DES patients) to −1.33 ± 8.99 (non-DES patients) without score normalization, and from −9.21 ± 26.37 (DES patients) to −0.85 ± 4.01 (non-DES) with data normalization), with a statistically significant linear relationship (R² > 0.32, p < 0.001). The SANDE questionnaire did not yield the same patient classification as OSDI. The same operative curves (ROC) of the SANDE normalized and non-normalized scores were used to differentiate among patients with DES using OSDI < 12 (0.836 ± 0.015) or OSDI < 22 (0.880 ± 0.015) cutoff values. Conclusions: Normalized and non-normalized data collected from the SANDE questionnaire showed relevant differences from those of the OSDI, which suggests that the results of the SANDE visual analog scale-based questionnaire provide different patient classifications than the OSDI score. Full article

Common triggers for sudden cardiac death (SCD) are transient ischemia, hemodynamic fluctuations, neurocardiovascular influences, and environmental factors. SCD occurs rapidly when sinus rhythm degenerates into ventricular tachycardia (VT) and/or ventricular fibrillation (VF), followed by asystole. Such progressive worsening of the cardiac rhythm is in most cases observed in the setting of ischemic heart disease and often associated with advanced left ventricular (LV) impairment. Revascularization prevents negative outcomes including SCD and heart failure (HF) due to LV dysfunction (LVD). The implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD) on top of medical therapy is superior to antiarrhythmic drugs for patients with LVD and VT/VF. The beneficial effects of ICD have been demonstrated in primary prevention of SCD as well. However, yet debated is the temporal management for patients with LVD who are eligible to ICD prior to revascularization, either through percutaneous or surgical approach. Restoration of coronary blood flow has a dramatic impact on adverse LV remodeling, while it requires aggressive long-term antiplatelet therapy, which might increase complication for eventual ICD procedure when percutaneous strategy is pursued; on the other hand, when LV and/or multiorgan dysfunction is present and coronary artery bypass grafting is chosen, the overall risk is augmented, mostly in HF patients. The aims of this review are to describe the pathophysiologic benefits of revascularization, the studies addressing percutaneous, surgical or no revascularization and ICD implantation, as well as emerging defibrillation strategies for patients deemed at transient risk of SCD and/or at higher risk for transvenous ICD implantation. Full article

Determining the antioxidant abilities and enzyme inhibition profiles of medicinally important plants and their oils is of great importance for a healthy life and the treatment of some common global diseases. Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) oil was examined and researched using several bioanalytical methods comprehensively for the first time in this research to determine its antioxidant, antiglaucoma, antidiabetic and anti-Alzheimer’s capabilities. Additionally, the kiwifruit oil inhibitory effects on acetylcholinesterase (AChE), carbonic anhydrase II (CA II), and α-amylase, which are linked to a number of metabolic illnesses, were established. Furthermore, LC-HRMS analysis was used to assess the phenolic content of kiwifruit oil. It came to light that kiwifruit oil contained 26 different phenolic compounds. According to the LC-HRMS findings, kiwifruit oil is abundant in apigenin (74.24 mg/L oil), epigallocatechin (12.89 mg/L oil), caryophyllene oxide (12.89 mg/L oil), and luteolin (5.49 mg/L oil). In addition, GC-MS and GC-FID studies were used to ascertain the quantity and chemical composition of the essential oils contained in kiwifruit oil. Squalene (53.04%), linoleoyl chloride (20.28%), linoleic acid (2.67%), and palmitic acid (1.54%) were the most abundant compounds in kiwifruit oil. For radical scavenging activities of kiwifruit oil, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH^•) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS^•+) radicals scavenging techniques were examined. These methods effectively demonstrated the potent radical scavenging properties of kiwifruit oil (IC₅₀: 48.55 μg/mL for DPPH^•, and IC₅₀: 77.00 μg/mL for ABTS^•+ scavenging). Also, for reducing capabilities, iron (Fe³⁺), copper (Cu²⁺), and Fe³⁺-2,4,6-tri(2-pyridyl)-S-triazine (TPTZ) reducing abilities were studied. Moreover, kiwifruit oil showed a considerable inhibition effect towards hCA II (IC₅₀: 505.83 μg/mL), AChE (IC₅₀: 12.80 μg/mL), and α-amylase (IC₅₀: 421.02 μg/mL). The results revealed that the use of kiwifruit oil in a pharmaceutical procedure has very important effects due to its antioxidant, anti-Alzheimer, antidiabetic, and antiglaucoma effects. Full article

A new soft-winged flower beetle, Burmalachius acroantennatus gen. et sp. nov. belonging to the tribe Malachiini (Coleoptera: Malachiidae), discovered in mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber is described. The new genus differs from the congeners of the tribe Malachiini in possessing the following characteristics: anterior tibiae widened and slightly curved inwards and excavate near the apices, tarsomeres of anterior legs depressed, 1st to 3rd tarsomeres simple and almost of equal size, tarsal comb lacking, “clavate” antennae due to dilated three apical antennomeres, 1st and 2nd antennomeres enlarged and of identical size, head strongly elongate, sides of elytra with carinate margins and widened epipleurae. This is the first record of the family Malachiidae in Burmese amber. Illustrations of the newly described species are provided. Keys for the identification of Melyrid lineage families, subfamilies of Malachiidae, tribes of the subfamily Malachiinae and genera of the tribe Malachiini are also given. Full article

Diatoms inhabit different aquatic and non-aquatic environments, including soils. The naviculoid genus Luticola is widespread in various habitats and accounts for 264 species that are only based on morphological and morphometric characteristics. These parameters can greatly vary during the life cycle, making the species very similar to each other and complicating their unambiguous identification. During a study on soil algal diversity in the Russian Far East (Jewish Autonomous Region), we isolated a strain of naviculoid diatom and examined it using an integrative approach (phylogenetic, morphological, ultrastructural data, and life cycle). Phylogenetic analyses, based on chloroplast rbcL gene data, showed affinity of the new strain with the genus Luticola. Our alga shares morphological features typical of the genus members but differs from them by having valves with a larger width and hook-shaped external proximal raphe ends deflected to the side opposite the stigma. It was revealed that the strain reproduces via two types of sexual reproduction—isogamy and cis-anisogamy. Based on these phenotypic traits, we described the new isolate as Luticola tenera sp. nov. Full article

Although secretory IgA (SIgA) is the dominant antibody in mucosal secretions, the capacity of the SIgA–antigen complex to prime the activation of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells in the intestinal epithelium is not well understood. To this end, the SIgA–ETEC F5 immune complexes (ICs) were prepared via Ni-NTA pull-down. After injecting the ICs into the intestines of SPF BALB/c mice, most ICs were observed in the Peyer’s patch (PP). We established a microfold (M) cell culture model in vitro for transport experiments and the inhibition test. To evaluate the priming effect of mucosal immunity, we employed the DC2.4 stimulation test, T lymphocyte proliferation assays, and cytokine detection assays. We found that the ICs were taken up via clathrin-dependent endocytosis through M cells. The high expression of costimulatory molecules CD86, CD80, and CD40 indicated that the ICs promoted the differentiation and maturation of DC2.4 cells. The stimulation index (SI) in the complex group was significantly higher than in the control group, suggesting that the ICs stimulated the proliferation of primed T cells. The secretion of some cytokines, namely TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-6, in spleen cells from the immunized mice was upregulated. These results indicate that ETEC F5 delivery mediated by SIgA in PPs initiates mucosal immune responses. Full article

Fipronil is an insecticide widely used in the agricultural and veterinary sectors for its efficacy in pest control. The presence of fipronil in the environment is mainly due to agricultural and domestic practices and is frequently found in different types of environmental matrices in concentrations ranging from µg/L to mg/L and can be hazardous to non-target organisms due to its high toxicity. This study was carried out to obtain and characterize microorganisms from soil which are capable of biodegrading fipronil that could be of great biotechnological interest. For this purpose, bioprospecting was carried out using fipronil (0.6 g/L) as the main source of carbon and nitrogen for growth. Once obtained, the strain was identified by sequencing the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene and the capacity to degrade fipronil was monitored by GC-MS. Our study showed a presence in soil samples of the strain identified as Enterobacter chengduensis, which was able to metabolize fipronil and its metabolites during the mineralization process. Enterobacter chengduensis was able to biodegrade fipronil (96%) and its metabolites fipronil-sulfone (92%) and fipronil-sulfide (79%) in 14 days. Overall, the results of this study provided a bacterium with great potential that could contribute to the degradation of fipronil in the environment. Full article

Male infertility is a condition that has always been less studied and known than female infertility. Male infertility is increasingly present and increasingly diagnosed. Although several causes are known, to date about 40% of the causes are considered idiopathic. The worldwide denasality can only be slowed if awareness campaigns are implemented on all the diseases that can alter fertile potential, especially in young adolescents. Male infertility is, in addition, associated with several medical conditions. In particular, the association between infertility and testicular cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, and genetic diseases is well known. For this reason, fertility preservation should not be proposed or be only oncological in nature, as there are several diagnosable pediatric pathologies that are associated with altered fertile potential to whose patients we could offer a gamete preservation pathway. In this paper we propose our experience on fertility preservation in pediatric andrological diseases. Full article

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome amplifies the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm labor in pregnant women. Similarly, women with substance use disorder have worsened obstetric and birth outcomes. Despite these two conditions being major healthcare disparities in Appalachia, the health outcomes of this cohort have not been studied thus far. This study looks at the health outcomes of this cohort. Method and Results: In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed 27,955 mothers who delivered at Cabell Huntington Hospital between January 2010 and November 2021. We implemented Chi-square tests to determine the associations and multiple logistic regression methods for comparison after controlling for other factors, and found that MetS, together with SUD, significantly increases the risk as well as the number of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes (p-value < 0.001), preeclampsia (p-value < 0.001), premature rupture (p-value < 0.001), preterm labor (p-value < 0.001), and newborn disorder (p-value < 0.001) compared to the women who had none or had either MetS or SUD alone. Conclusion: Women with both metabolic syndrome and substance abuse had worsened pregnancy and neonatal outcomes compared to women with metabolic syndrome or SUD alone. In conclusion, analysis of all the variables is crucial to strategically planning and implementing health interventions that will positively influence the health outcome of the pregnant woman as well as the child. Full article

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is one of the most common forms of interstitial lung disease, characterized by progressive parenchymal fibrosis and respiratory failure. In a model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, the antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory activity of Longidaze (Bovhyaluronidase Azoxymer), which contains a conjugate of the hyaluronidase enzyme with a high molecular weight synthetic carrier azoxymer bromide, was investigated. Experiments were conducted in male C57BL/6 mice. Longidaze was administered at different doses by intranasal and intramuscular routes. Histology, hematology, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used in the study. The use of Longidaze reduced pulmonary fibrosis, as evidenced by an improvement in histopathologic damage to the lungs, a decrease in the area of connective tissue, and the levels of profibrotic factors (TGF-β1, hydroxyproline, collagen I) in lung tissue. In addition, Longidaze inhibited the inflammatory response in pulmonary fibrosis, and decreased the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and hyaluronic acid in lung tissue and the recruitment of inflammatory cells into lung tissue. The highest therapeutic efficacy was observed with the use of Longidaze at doses of 120 and 1200 U/kg intramuscularly, which was superior to that of the reference drug pirfenidone axunio. The data presented in this study suggest that Longidaze is a new and promising drug for the treatment of IPF that warrants further investigation in patients with fibrotic interstitial lung disease. Full article

Atherosclerosis is an insidious vascular disease with an asymptomatic debut and development over decades. The aetiology and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis are not completely clear. However, chronic inflammation and autoimmune reactions play a significant role in the natural course of atherosclerosis. The pathogenesis of atherosclerosis involves damage to the intima, immune cell recruitment and infiltration of cells such as monocytes/macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes into the inner layer of vessel walls, and the accumulation of lipids, leading to vascular inflammation. The recruited immune cells mainly have a pro-atherogenic effect, whereas CD4⁺ regulatory T (Treg) cells are another heterogeneous group of cells with opposite functions that suppress the pathogenic immune responses. Present in low numbers in atherosclerotic plaques, Tregs serve a protective role, maintaining immune homeostasis and tolerance by suppressing pro-inflammatory immune cell subsets. Compelling experimental data suggest that various Treg cell-based approaches may be important in the treatment of atherosclerosis. Here we highlight the most recent advances in our understanding of the roles of FOXP3-expressing CD4⁺ Treg cells in the atherogenic process and discuss potential translational strategies for the treatment of atherosclerosis by Treg manipulation. Full article

Bacteriocins (enterocins) represent a new therapeutic strategy in various intestinal and non-intestinal infections. In antiparasitic defence, an oxidative inflammation of phagocytes is effective in destroying new-born Trichinella spiralis larvae. The strains Enterococcus faecium CCM8558 and E. durans ED26E/7 and their enterocins, enterocin M and a durancin-like enterocin, respectively, were administered daily, and mice were then infected with T. spiralis larvae on the seventh day of treatment. Phagotest and Bursttest kits were used to detect the phagocytosis and respiratory burst in blood leukocytes. T. spiralis infection inhibited phagocytosis from day 11 post-infection (dpi) during the migration of new-born larvae into the muscles. E. faecium CCM8558, E. durans ED26E/7, and the durancin-like enterocin increased phagocytic activity from day 11 dpi. Both strains and their enterocins (enterocin M and durancin-like) stimulated the ingestion capability of phagocytes from 18 to 32 dpi. Enterococci/enterocins therapy prevented a reduction in cells with respiratory burst caused by T. spiralis infection from 11 dpi. The enzymatic activity of phagocytes was stimulated on 18 and 25 dpi, particularly by E. faecium CCM8558 and enterocin M. Enterocin M and the durancin-like enterocin were as effective in stimulating phagocytosis as the bacterial strains that produce them. The stimulation of phagocytosis could contribute to decreased larval migration and reduced parasite burden in the host. Full article

This study explored the effect of the long-term partial replacement of chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer on soil organic carbon composition, enzyme activity, and crop yields in the wheat–maize rotation area of northern Anhui, China. This study also specified the proper amount of organic fertilizer replacement that should be used for chemical fertilizer. Different fertilization modes were used (no fertilization, CK; chemical fertilizer, CF; chemical fertilizer and straw returning, CF + S; chemical fertilizer, straw returning, and straw decomposition agent, CF + S + DA; 70% chemical fertilizer and 50% organic fertilizer, 70% CF + 50% OF; 70% chemical fertilizer, 50% organic fertilizer and straw returning, 70% CF + 50% OF + S; 50% chemical fertilizer and 100% organic fertilizer, 50% CF + 100% OF; and 50% chemical fertilizer, 100% organic fertilizer, and straw returning, 50% CF + 100% OF + S). Variations in the organic carbon composition, enzyme activity, soil pH, and crop yields in the wheat–maize rotation under different fertilization treatments were analyzed. The results showed that the replacement of chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer results in improved crop yields in wheat–maize rotation. The long-term partial replacement of chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer can increase the quality of soil humus, alleviate soil acidification, and improve soil enzyme activity. Straw returning and organic fertilizer application can considerably raise the activities of urease, acid phosphatase, and nitrate reductase in soil. The soil pH of the CF treatment was reduced compared to the CK treatment, while organic fertilizer application alleviated soil acidification when compared to CF treatment. Organic fertilization increases the total organic carbon content of the soil, which was 19.6~85.5% higher than in the CK treatment. Applying straw and organic fertilizer significantly increased the ratio of the humic/fulvic acid in the soil. The soil active carbon forms of the soil with the application of organic fertilizer and straw returning were significantly higher than those of the CK and CF treatments. This study suggests that the optimal fertilizer management option in northern Anhui’s wheat–maize rotation area is to replace 50% of the chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer, and to fully return straw to the field. This would include 150 kg N h·m⁻², 60 kg P₂O₅ h·m⁻², 50 kg K₂O h·m⁻², 6000 kg organic fertilizer h·m⁻², and full straw return to the field. Full article

Firefighters are exposed to occupational hazards and have a higher prevalence of health issues. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the immune, endocrine, and neural systems, and disruptions in its composition can impact health outcomes. This pilot study aimed to investigate the potential association between occupational factors, changes in gut microbiota, and the development of adverse health outcomes in firefighters. To test this hypothesis, we recruited 15 firefighters and age/sex-matched controls to investigate the relationship between occupational environment and gut microbiota. Firefighters exhibit lower intestinal bacterial alpha diversity and a higher presence of pathogenic bacteria than the control. Moreover, unique gut bacterial taxa were observed in firefighters with high post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) scores, which could contribute to immune dysregulation and higher susceptibility to pathogen colonization. These preliminary findings suggest that occupational factors, including exposure to traumatic stressors and chemicals, may influence firefighters’ health by modulating their gut microbiota. The observed changes in gut microbiota composition and the potential link to occupational hazards highlight the need for further research in larger sample-size studies. Understanding the role of gut microbiota in firefighter health may have implications for preventive measures and interventions to mitigate occupational health risks and improve overall well-being. Full article

A total of 160 Ross 308 male chickens were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design to examine the effects of anticoccidial vaccination (ACV; lack or 1× dose recommended by the manufacturer) and dietary supplementation with Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) extract (DE; with or without) on growth performance, immunity, biochemical parameters, and intestinal morphology in broiler chickens challenged with Eimeria spp. At 20 days of age, all birds were challenged with a 25× dose of ACV, including Eimeria acervulina, E. maxima, E. mitis, and E. tenella. No interaction between ACV and DE was observed in terms of growth performance. Vaccinated birds showed increased feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the 11–20 day period. Meanwhile, DE supplementation led to decreased FI and body weight gain (BWG) during the 1–10 day period. ACV effectively induced immunity against Eimeria, as evidenced by reduced oocyst shedding and less intestinal lesions, decreased levels of pro-inflammatory interleukin-6, and improved BWG during both the post infection (PI) period (21–35 days) and the entire growth period. DE supplementation lowered FCR and increased BWG during the 35–42 day period, increased the concentration of butyric acid in the cecal digesta, and lowered oocyst shedding PI. In vaccinated birds, DE elevated levels of plasma total protein and immunoglobulin M, and influenced tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1 and claudin-3, indicating a more robust epithelial barrier. DE also lowered alanine aminotransferase activity in unvaccinated birds. Both ACV and DE independently improved intestinal morphology in the jejunum, decreasing crypt depth and increasing the villus height-to-crypt ratio. These findings suggest that both ACV and DE could be effective strategies for managing coccidiosis in broiler chickens. Full article

It is well-established that patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have a higher incidence of several types of cancer. The precise mechanisms of this association are still unknown, but obesity and chronic inflammation-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) are thought to be the main risk factors. ROS may produce different DNA damage, which could eventually lead to cancer. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the relation of chromosome aberrations (CA) with disease status, demographics, and clinical parameters in 33 subjects with type 1 DM (T1DM), 22 subjects with type 2 DM (T2DM), and 21 controls. CAs were analyzed in cultured peripheral blood lymphocytes and subdivided into chromatid (CTA)- and chromosome (CSA)-type aberrations. Compared with controls, higher levels of CTAs and CSAs were observed in T1DM (p = 0.0053 and p = 0.0203, respectively) and T2DM (p = 0.0133 and p = 0.00002, respectively). While there was no difference in CTAs between T1DM and T2DM, CSAs were higher in T2DM (p = 0.0173). A significant positive association between CTAs and disease duration (r_s = 0.2938, p = 0.0099) and between CSAs and disease duration (r_s = 0.4306, p = 0.0001), age (r_s = 0.3932, p = 0.0004), and body mass index (BMI) (r_s = 0.3502, p = 0.0019) was revealed. After multiple regression analysis, duration of disease remained significant for CTA, CSA, and CAs (p = 0.0042, p = 0.00003, and p = 0.00002, respectively). For CSA, BMI and the use of statins were the other important confounding variables (p = 0.0105 and p = 0.0763). Thus, this study demonstrated that both T1DM and T2DM patients had a higher number of all types of aberrations than controls, which increases with the prolonged disease duration. Higher BMI was associated with a higher frequency of CSA. The use of statins might be beneficial for reducing chromosome damage, but further investigations are needed to confirm this association. Full article

Background: COVID-19 led to the suspension academic activities worldwide, affecting millions of students and staff. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the presence of IgM and IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in an academic population during the return to classes after a one-year suspension. The study took place over five months at a Brazilian university and included 942 participants. Results: We found that most participants had reactive IgG and non-reactive IgM. All received at least one dose, and 940 received two or more doses, of different COVID-19 vaccines. We obtained a higher average of memory antibodies (IgG) in participants who received the CoronaVac/ChAdOx1 combination. IgG was consistently distributed for each vaccine group, but individuals who completed the vaccination schedule had higher levels. There were no differences between antibodies and gender, presence of symptoms, and previous COVID-19 infection, but older participants (>53 years) and contacts of infected individuals had higher IgM levels. Conclusion: This study makes significant contributions to the assessment of antibodies in the academic environment, allowing us to infer that most participants had memory immunity and low indications of recent infection when returning to face-to-face classes, as well as demonstrating the need to monitor immunity and update vaccinations. Full article

(1) Background: In this study, we aimed to explore the regulatory mechanism of miR-124-3p microglial exosomes, as they were previously reported to modulate neuroinflammation and promote neuronal repair following traumatic brain injury (TBI). (2) Methods: Studies investigating the impact of microglial exosomal miRNAs, specifically miR-124-3p, on injured neurons and brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMVECs) in the context of TBI were reviewed. (3) Results: Animal models of TBI, in vitro cell culture experiments, RNA sequencing analysis, and functional assays were employed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the effects of miR-124-3p-loaded exosomes on neuroinflammation and neuronal repair. Anti-inflammatory M2 polarization of microglia, mTOR signaling suppression, and BMVECs-mediated autophagy were reported as the main processes contributing to neuroprotection, reduced blood-brain barrier leakage, and improved neurologic outcomes in animal models of TBI. (4) Conclusions: Microglial exosomes, particularly those carrying miR-124-3p, have emerged as promising candidates for therapeutic interventions in TBI. These exosomes exhibit neuroprotective effects, attenuate neuroinflammation, and promote neuronal repair and plasticity. However, further research is required to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize their delivery strategies for effective treatment in human TBI cases. Full article

No published study has investigated the mitochondrial count in patients suffering from acute intermittent porphyria (AIP). In order to determine whether mitochondrial content can influence the pathogenesis of porphyria, we measured the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number in the peripheral blood cells of 34 patients and 37 healthy individuals. We found that all AIP patients had a low number of mitochondria, likely as a result of a protective mechanism against an inherited heme synthesis deficiency. Furthermore, we identified a close correlation between disease penetrance and decreases in the mitochondrial content and serum levels of PERM1, a marker of mitochondrial biogenesis. In a healthy individual, mitochondrial count is usually modulated to fit its ability to respond to various environmental stressors and bioenergetic demands. In AIP patients, coincidentally, the phenotype only manifests in response to endogenous and exogenous triggers factors. Therefore, these new findings suggest that a deficiency in mitochondrial proliferation could affect the individual responsiveness to stimuli, providing a new explanation for the variability in the clinical manifestations of porphyria. However, the metabolic and/or genetic factors responsible for this impairment remain to be identified. In conclusion, both mtDNA copy number per cell and mitochondrial biogenesis seem to play a role in either inhibiting or promoting disease expression. They could serve as two novel biomarkers for porphyria. Full article

Background: Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) are among the most frequent reasons for referrals to the pediatric emergency department (PED). The aim of this study is to describe the management of antibiotic prescription in febrile children with LRTI or CAP admitted to a third-level PED and to investigate the different variables that can guide physicians in this decision-making. Methods: This is an observational, retrospective, monocentric study including patients < 14 years old who were presented to the PED for a febrile LRTI or CAP during the first six months of the year 2017. Demographic and clinical data, PED examinations, recommended therapy, and discharge modality were considered. Two multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed on patients with complete profiles to investigate the impact of demographic, laboratory, and clinical variables on antibiotic prescription and hospital admission. Results: This study included 584 patients with LRTI (n = 368) or CAP (n = 216). One hundred and sixty-eight individuals (28.7%) were admitted to the hospital. Lower age, higher heart rate, and lower SpO2 were associated with an increased risk of hospitalization. Antibiotics were prescribed to 495 (84.8%) patients. According to the multivariate logistic regression, the diagnosis and duration of fever were substantially linked with antibiotic prescription. Conclusions: The present study reports real-life data about our PED experience. A high rate of antibiotic prescription was noted. In the future, it is necessary to improve antibiotic stewardship programs to increase clinical adherence to guidelines. Full article

Isorhamnetin has gained research interest for its anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and chemoprotective properties. In this study, human colon adenocarcinoma cells were cultured in the presence or absence of different isorhamnetin concentrations (5–150 μM) for 24 h or 48 h of cultivation to explore the impact on several parameters of viability/proliferation (mitochondrial function using an MTT test, metabolic activity, cell membrane integrity and lysosomal activity using a triple test). The intracellular generation of superoxide radicals using an NBT test and ELISA analysis was performed to observe the biosynthesis of interleukin 8 (IL-8) in cells stimulated with zymosan, as well as in basal conditions. The antiproliferative activity of isorhamnetin was demonstrated by significantly reduced values of mitochondrial and metabolic activity, integrity of cell membranes and lysosomal activity. Its high prooxidant potential was reflected by the significantly elevated generation of superoxides even in cells with low viability status. The anti-inflammatory effect of isorhamnetin was evident due to decreased IL-8 production, and the most significant decline in IL-8 concentration was observed after 24 h treatment in cells with induced inflammation. We demonstrated that isorhamnetin can suppress the proliferation of HT-29 cells, and this effect was correlated with pro-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activity of isorhamnetin. Full article

A new species of the genus Cartorhynchites (Rhynchitini, Rhynchitina) is described from Baltic amber. Cartorhynchites groehni Legalov, Bukejs et Alekseev sp. n. differs from C. struvei Zherikhin, 1992 from the Miocene of Germany in its smaller body size (2.6 mm), strongly convex eyes, narrower pronotum and wide elytra, and dark brown legs. A new species is studied and illustrated in detail using X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT). It is the earliest fossil record of subtribe Rhynchitina. A list of fossil Rhynchitidae was compiled. A key to species of Rhynchitidae in Baltic amber was given. Fossil finds of the family Rhynchitidae were discussed. The assumption was made that the Recent distribution range of the genus Cartorhynchites is within the range of its host plant of the genus Symplocos. Probably, a new Eocene species developed on Symplocos kowalewskii, and the Oligocene C. struvei was associated with Symplocos myosotis (Unger). Full article

Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) remains a medical challenge with no easy resolution. Over the last few decades, significant advances have been achieved in promoting peripheral nerve regeneration, and new assessment tools have been developed, both functional and imaging, to quantify the proportion and quality of nerve recovery. The exploration of new animal models, larger, more complex, and with more similarities to humans, has made it possible to reduce the gap between the results obtained in classic animal models, such as rodents, and the application of new therapies in humans and animals of clinical interest. Ultrasonography is an imaging technique recurrently used in clinical practice to assess the peripheral nerves, allowing for its anatomical and topographic characterization, aiding in the administration of anesthesia, and in the performance of nerve blocks. The use of this technique in animal models is scarce, but it could be a useful tool in monitoring the progression of nerve regeneration after the induction of controlled experimental lesions. In this work, sheep, a promising animal model in the area of peripheral nerve regeneration, were subjected to an ultrasonographic study of three peripheral nerves of the hind limb, the common peroneal, and tibial and sciatic nerves. The main aim was to establish values of dimensions and ultrasound appearance in healthy nerves and landmarks for their identification, as well as to perform an ultrasound evaluation of the cranial tibial muscle, an effector muscle of the common peroneal nerve, and to establish normal values for its ultrasound appearance and dimensions. The results obtained will allow the use of these data as control values in future work exploring new therapeutic options for nerve regeneration after induction of common peroneal nerve injuries in sheep. Full article

Millets are group of underutilized cereal crops with higher nutritional values. The present investigation used different classes of minor millets, including barnyard (sava), little (kutki), finger (ragi), kodo and foxtail millets, for evaluation of their nutritional parameters, i.e., the content of proteins, total amino acids, total sugars, insoluble fibers, soluble fibers, total dietary fibers, iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn), along with antinutritional and antioxidant parameters, viz., tannic acid, phytic acid, phenol, flavonoid, proline and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. Alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase activity were also thought to elevate millets as a viable staple meal. Foxtail millet showed the maximum inhibition, with an IC₅₀ value of 20.46 ± 1.80 µg mL⁻¹ with respect to α-amylase. The coefficient of correlation between nutritional and antinutritional compositions showed that the starch content was significantly and positively correlated with insoluble fiber (r = 0.465) and dietary fiber (r = 0.487). Moreover, sugar was positively correlated with the phytic acid (r = 0.707), Fe and Zn (r = 0.681) contents. To determine the peptides responsible for anticancer activity, the foxtail protein was subjected to ultrafiltration; it was found that the 3 kDa fraction retained the greatest anticancer activity. Selected millet germplasm line(s) that have the best nutraceutical properties could be used in millet improvement programs. Full article

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are a class of endogenous, non-coding, small RNAs with about 22 nucleotides (nt), that are widespread in plants and are involved in various biological processes, such as development, flowering phase transition, hormone signal transduction, and stress response. The transcriptional regulation of miRNAs is an important process of miRNA gene regulation, and it is essential for miRNA biosynthesis and function. Like mRNAs, miRNAs are transcribed by RNA polymerase II, and these transcription processes are regulated by various transcription factors and other proteins. Consequently, the upstream genes regulating miRNA transcription, their specific expression, and the regulating mechanism were reviewed to provide more information for further research on the miRNA regulatory mechanism and help to further understand the regulatory networks of plant miRNAs. Full article

Introduction: The Buschke–Löwenstein tumor (BLT) is an uncommon sexually transmitted ailment attributed to the human papillomavirus (HPV)—usually the 6 or 11 type (90%)—with male predominance and an overall infection rate of 0.1%. BLT or giant condyloma acuminatum is recognized as a tumor with localized aggressiveness, displaying distinctive features: the potential for destructive growth, benign histology, a rate of 56% malignant transformation, and a high rate of recurrence after surgical excision. There are several treatment choices which have been tried, including laser, cryotherapy, radiotherapy, electrocoagulation, immunotherapy, imiquimode, sincatechins, intralesional injection of 5-fluoruracil (5-FU), isolated perfusion, and local or systemic chemotherapy. In the case of an extensive tumor, preoperative chemotherapy or radiotherapy is used for tumor shrinkage, making the debulking procedure safer. HPV vaccines significantly decrease the incidence of genital warts, also decreasing the risk of BLT; HPV-6 and HPV-11 are included in these vaccines. Materials and methods: We present a 53-year-old heterosexual man, hospitalized in our department in June 2021 with a typical cauliflower-like tumor mass involving the perianal region, which progressively increased in size for almost 7 years. The perianal mass was completely removed, ensuring negative surgical margins. The large perianal skin defect which occurred was reconstructed with fascio-cutaneous V-Y advancement flap. There was no need for protective stoma. The literature review extended from January 1980 and December 2022, utilizing Pubmed and Google Scholar as search platforms. Results: Due to the disease’s proximity to the anal verge and the limited number of reported cases, arriving at a definitive and satisfactory treatment strategy becomes challenging. The optimal approach entails thorough surgical removal of the lesion, ensuring well-defined surgical margins and performing a wide excision to minimize the likelihood of recurrence. In order to repair the large wound defects, various rotation or advancement flaps can be used, resulting in reduced recovery time and a diminished likelihood of anal stricture or other complications. Our objective is to emphasize the significance of surgical excision in addressing BLT through the presentation of a case involving a substantial perianal condyloma acuminatum, managed successfully with complete surgical removal and the utilization of a V-Y advancement flap technique. In the present case, after 5 months post operation, the patient came back with a buttock abscess, which was incised and drained. After another 5 months, the patient returned for difficult defecation, with an anal stenosis being diagnosed. An anal dilatation and sphincterotomy were carried out, with good postoperative results. Conclusions: The surgical management of Buschke–Löwenstein tumors needs a multidisciplinary team with specialized expertise. The reconstruction techniques involved can be challenging and may introduce additional complications. We consider aggressive surgery, which incorporates reconstructive procedures, as the standard treatment for Buschke–Löwenstein tumors. This approach aims to achieve optimal surgical outcomes and prevent any recurrence. Full article