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17 pages, 501 KiB  
Article
Nurse-Led Binaural Beat Intervention for Anxiety Reduction in Pterygium Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Punchiga Ratanalerdnawee, Mart Maiprasert, Jakkrit Klaphajone, Pongsiri Khunngam and Phawit Norchai
Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(8), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15080282 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 216
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Anxiety before ophthalmic surgery under local anesthesia may hinder patient cooperation and surgical outcomes. Nurse-led auditory interventions offer a promising non-pharmacological approach to perioperative anxiety management. This study evaluated the effectiveness of superimposed binaural beats (SBBs)—classical music layered with frequency differentials—in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Anxiety before ophthalmic surgery under local anesthesia may hinder patient cooperation and surgical outcomes. Nurse-led auditory interventions offer a promising non-pharmacological approach to perioperative anxiety management. This study evaluated the effectiveness of superimposed binaural beats (SBBs)—classical music layered with frequency differentials—in reducing anxiety during pterygium surgery with conjunctival autografting. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 111 adult patients scheduled for elective pterygium excision with conjunctival autografting under local anesthesia were allocated to one of three groups: SBBs, plain music (PM), or silence (control). A trained perioperative nurse administered all auditory interventions. The patients’ anxiety was assessed using the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory—State (STAI-S), and physiological parameters (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation) were recorded before and after surgery. Results: The SBB group showed significantly greater reductions in their STAI-S scores (p < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.011), heart rate (p = 0.003), and respiratory rate (p = 0.009) compared to the PM and control groups. No adverse events occurred. Conclusions: SBBs are a safe, nurse-delivered auditory intervention that significantly reduces perioperative anxiety and supports physiological stability. Their integration into routine nursing care for minor ophthalmic surgeries is both feasible and beneficial. Trial Registration: This study was registered with the Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) under registration number TCTR20250125002 on 25 January 2025. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health Nursing)
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25 pages, 6142 KiB  
Article
Cancer Chemopreventive Potential of Claoxylon longifolium Grown in Southern Thailand: A Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Vicenin 1 as the Active Compound and In Silico Studies on Related C-Glycosyl Flavones
by Chuanchom Khuniad, Lutfun Nahar, Anupam D. Talukdar, Rajat Nath, Kenneth J. Ritchie and Satyajit D. Sarker
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3173; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153173 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 337
Abstract
Claoxylon longifolium (Euphorbiaceae) is an indigenous vegetable that has been used in southern Thai traditional medicine and cuisine. A bioassay-guided approach was adopted to investigate the phytochemicals and chemopreventive potential of C. longifolium leaves and stems. Phytochemical investigation of the active MeOH fractions [...] Read more.
Claoxylon longifolium (Euphorbiaceae) is an indigenous vegetable that has been used in southern Thai traditional medicine and cuisine. A bioassay-guided approach was adopted to investigate the phytochemicals and chemopreventive potential of C. longifolium leaves and stems. Phytochemical investigation of the active MeOH fractions afforded six known compounds, including caffeic acid (1), isovitexin (2), and vicenins 1–3 (3–5) from leaves and hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (6) from stems. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic means. Ten constituents were tentatively identified from the oily fractions of stems by GC-MS. Non-cytotoxic concentrations of compounds 16 were identified using the MTT cell viability assay. The ability of compounds 16 at non-cytotoxic concentrations to induce Nrf2 activation, correlating to their potential chemopreventive properties, was determined using a luciferase reporter assay in the AREc32 cell line. Only vicenin 1 (3) was considered to be a potent chemopreventive compound, as it increased luciferase activity by 2.3-fold. In silico studies on compounds 25 and vitexin (16) revealed the potential of these compounds as cancer chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. This study provides the first report on the chemopreventive properties of C. longifolium. All identified and isolated compounds are reported here for the first time from this species. Full article
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32 pages, 57374 KiB  
Article
Enhancement of Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activity of Thai Fermented Soybean Using Box–Behnken Design Guided Microwave-Assisted Extraction
by Piya Temviriyanukul, Woorawee Inthachat, Ararat Jaiaree, Jirarat Karinchai, Pensiri Buacheen, Supachai Yodkeeree, Tanongsak Laowanitwattana, Teera Chewonarin, Uthaiwan Suttisansanee, Arisa Imsumran, Ariyaphong Wongnoppavich and Pornsiri Pitchakarn
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2603; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152603 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Thai fermented soybeans (TFSs) contain phytochemicals with anti-diabetic benefits. In this study, an initial non-optimized TFS extract (TFSE) was prepared using a conventional triplicate 80% ethanol extraction method and evaluated for its biological activity. TFSE effectively reversed TNF-α-induced insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes [...] Read more.
Thai fermented soybeans (TFSs) contain phytochemicals with anti-diabetic benefits. In this study, an initial non-optimized TFS extract (TFSE) was prepared using a conventional triplicate 80% ethanol extraction method and evaluated for its biological activity. TFSE effectively reversed TNF-α-induced insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by enhancing insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, indicating anti-diabetic potential. TFSE also upregulated the phosphorylation of AKT (a key insulin signaling mediator) and the expression of adipogenic proteins (PPARγ, CEBPα) in TNF-α-exposed 3T3-L1, suggesting the mitigation of adipocyte dysfunction; however, the results did not reach statistical significance. The conventional extraction process was labor-intensive and time-consuming, and to enhance extraction efficiency and bioactivity, the process was subsequently optimized using environmentally friendly microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) in combination with the Box–Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). The optimized extract (O-TFSE) was obtained over a significantly shorter extraction time and exhibited higher levels of total flavonoids and antioxidant activity in comparison to TFSE, while showing reduced levels of isoflavones (daidzein, genistein, and glycitein) in relation to TFSE. Interestingly, O-TFSE retained similar efficacy in reversing TNF-α-induced insulin resistance and demonstrated significantly stronger α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities, indicating its enhanced potential for diabetes management. These results support the use of MAE as an efficient method for extracting functional compounds from TFS for functional foods targeting insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Full article
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16 pages, 564 KiB  
Article
Liability Management and Solvency of Life Insurers in a Low-Interest Rate Environment: Evidence from Thailand
by Wilaiporn Suwanmalai and Simon Zaby
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2025, 18(7), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm18070397 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 923
Abstract
This research investigates the liability management of Thai life insurers in a prolonged low-interest rate environment. It examines the impact of interest rate changes on life insurance products, solvency, and profitability. The study identifies a significant shift in product portfolios toward non-interest-sensitive products, [...] Read more.
This research investigates the liability management of Thai life insurers in a prolonged low-interest rate environment. It examines the impact of interest rate changes on life insurance products, solvency, and profitability. The study identifies a significant shift in product portfolios toward non-interest-sensitive products, which helps mitigate financial risk and enhance solvency. The solvency of Thai life insurers is influenced by their return on assets, with higher risk exposures requiring more capital, potentially lowering solvency levels. However, the proportion of risky investment assets is not significantly related to the solvency position in the Thai market. The market index return is a significant predictor of stock returns for Thai life insurers, while changes in interest rate sensitivity are not statistically significant between low-rate and normal periods. The average solvency level under Thailand’s regulatory regime is also not statistically different between normal and prolonged low-interest rate situations. This study contributes to the understanding of liability management practices among life insurers in Thailand and provides insights into the challenges and strategies for maintaining solvency and profitability in a low-interest rate environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Financial Markets)
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9 pages, 207 KiB  
Article
Innovating Quality Control and External Quality Assurance for HIV-1 Recent Infection Testing: Empowering HIV Surveillance in Lao PDR
by Supaporn Suparak, Kanokwan Ngueanchanthong, Petai Unpol, Siriphailin Jomjunyoung, Wipawee Thanyacharern, Sirilada Pimpa Chisholm, Nitis Smanthong, Pojaporn Pinrod, Thitipong Yingyong, Phonepadith Xangsayarath, Sinakhone Xayadeth, Virasack Somoulay, Theerawit Tasaneeyapan, Somboon Nookhai, Archawin Rojanawiwat and Sanny Northbrook
Viruses 2025, 17(7), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17071004 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 822
Abstract
Quality assurance programs are critical to ensuring the consistency and reliability of point-of-care surveillance test results. In 2022, we launched Laos’ inaugural quality control (QC) and external quality assessment (EQA) program for national HIV recent infection surveillance. Our study aims to implement the [...] Read more.
Quality assurance programs are critical to ensuring the consistency and reliability of point-of-care surveillance test results. In 2022, we launched Laos’ inaugural quality control (QC) and external quality assessment (EQA) program for national HIV recent infection surveillance. Our study aims to implement the first QC and EQA program for national HIV recent infection surveillance in Laos, utilizing non-infectious dried tube specimens (DTS) for quality control testing. This initiative seeks to monitor and assure the quality of HIV infection surveillance. We employed the Asante HIV-1 Rapid Test for Recent Infection (HIV-1 RTRI) point-of-care kit, using plasma specimens from the Thai Red Cross Society to create dried tube specimens (DTS). The DTS panels, including HIV-1 negative, HIV-1 recent, and HIV-1 long-term samples, met ISO 13528:2022 standards to ensure homogeneity and stability. These panels were transported from the Thai National Institute of Health (Thai NIH) to the Laos National Center for Laboratory and Epidemiology (NCLE) and subsequently shipped to 12 remote laboratories at ambient temperature. The laboratory results were electronically transmitted to Thai NIH 15 days after receiving the panel for performance analysis. The concordance results with the sample types were scored, and laboratories that achieved 100% concordance across all sample panels were considered to have satisfactorily met the established standards. Almost all laboratories demonstrated satisfactory results with 100% concordance across all sample panels during all three rounds of QC: 11 out of 12 (92%) in June, 10 out of 12 (83%) in July, and 11 out of 12 (91%) in August. The two rounds of EQA performed in June and August 2022 were satisfied by 8 out of 11 (72%) and 5 out of 10 (50%) laboratories, respectively. QC and EQA monitoring identified errors such as testing protocol mistakes and insufficient DTS panel dissolution, leading to improvements in HIV recency testing quality. Laboratories that reported errors were corrected and implemented further preventive actions. The QC and EQA program for HIV-1 RTRI identified errors in HIV recent infection testing. Implementing a specialized QC and EQA program for DTS marks a significant advancement in improving the accuracy and consistency of HIV recent infection surveillance. Continuous assessment is vital for addressing recurring issues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Virology and Viral Diseases)
12 pages, 275 KiB  
Article
Associations of Butyrylcholinesterase Activity and Lipid-Related Indices with Obesity in Thai Children
by Kanjana Suriyaprom, Sujinda Songtrai, Nittiya Chowchaikong and Chutima Sirikulchayanonta
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(7), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22071107 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 308
Abstract
Background: Childhood obesity is a significant global health concern. Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) has been shown to play a role in lipid metabolism. This study aimed to assess BChE activity, obesity-related and lipid-related indices, and dyslipidemia in obese and non-obese children, and to investigate the [...] Read more.
Background: Childhood obesity is a significant global health concern. Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) has been shown to play a role in lipid metabolism. This study aimed to assess BChE activity, obesity-related and lipid-related indices, and dyslipidemia in obese and non-obese children, and to investigate the associations of these parameters with obesity among Thai children. Methods: The study included 661 Thai children, consisting of 338 with obesity and 323 with a normal weight. Anthropometric measurements, metabolic parameters, obesity- and lipid-related indices, and BChE activity were evaluated. Results: The obese group exhibited significantly higher BChE activity and obesity-related and lipid-related indices compared to the non-obese group (p < 0.01). Additionally, metabolic parameters—including glucose levels, triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, and TyG-related indices—as well as the lipid profile, which included triglycerides (TG), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), were all significantly elevated in the obese group (p < 0.01). Obesity was associated with dyslipidemia (p < 0.01). Moreover, BChE activity showed a positive correlation with obesity-related and lipid-related indices, along with several metabolic parameters (p < 0.002). The upper stratum of BChE activity (OR = 5.356), the non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratio (OR = 2.185), and the TG/HDL-C ratio (OR = 1.703) were found to be effective in evaluating and predicting the risk of obesity, even after adjusting for potential covariates (p < 0.01). Conclusions: These findings indicate a significant relationship between obesity and increased BChE activity, lipid-related indices, and dyslipidemia in Thai children. Therefore, changes in BChE activity may be considered a factor associated with obesity, enhancing its potential as a marker for obesity assessment. Full article
23 pages, 6001 KiB  
Article
Quantification of Flavonoid Contents in Holy Basil Using Hyperspectral Imaging and Deep Learning Approaches
by Apichat Suratanee, Panita Chutimanukul and Kitiporn Plaimas
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7582; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137582 - 6 Jul 2025
Viewed by 372
Abstract
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum L.) is a medicinal herb rich in bioactive flavonoids with therapeutic properties. Traditional quantification methods rely on time-consuming and destructive extraction processes, whereas hyperspectral imaging provides a rapid, non-destructive alternative by analysing spectral signatures. However, effectively linking hyperspectral [...] Read more.
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum L.) is a medicinal herb rich in bioactive flavonoids with therapeutic properties. Traditional quantification methods rely on time-consuming and destructive extraction processes, whereas hyperspectral imaging provides a rapid, non-destructive alternative by analysing spectral signatures. However, effectively linking hyperspectral data to flavonoid levels remains a challenge for developing early detection tools before harvest. This study integrates deep learning with hyperspectral imaging to quantify flavonoid contents in 113 samples from 26 Thai holy basil cultivars collected across diverse regions of Thailand. Two deep learning architectures, ResNet1D and CNN1D, were evaluated in combination with feature extraction techniques, including wavelet transformation and Gabor-like filtering. ResNet1D with wavelet transformation achieved optimal performance, yielding an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.8246 and an accuracy of 0.7702 for flavonoid content classification. Cross-validation demonstrated the model’s robust predictive capability in identifying antioxidant-rich samples. Samples with the highest predicted flavonoid content were identified, and cultivars exhibiting elevated levels of both flavonoids and phenolics were highlighted across various regions of Thailand. These findings demonstrate the predictive capability of hyperspectral data combined with deep learning for phytochemical assessment. This approach offers a valuable tool for non-destructive quality evaluation and supports cultivar selection for higher phytochemical content in breeding programs and agricultural applications. Full article
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20 pages, 3284 KiB  
Article
Suk-SaiYasna Remedy, a Traditional Thai Medicine, Mitigates Stress-Induced Cognitive Impairment via Keap1-Nrf2 Pathway
by Wuttipong Masraksa, Supawadee Daodee, Orawan Monthakantirat, Chantana Boonyarat, Charinya Khamphukdee, Pakakrong Kwankhao, Abdulwaris Mading, Poowanarth Muenhong, Juthamart Maneenet, Suresh Awale, Kinzo Matsumoto and Yaowared Chulikhit
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(11), 5388; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115388 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 816
Abstract
Suk-SaiYasna (SSY) is a well-documented traditional Thai herbal formula in the Royal Scripture of King Narai’s Traditional Medicine. SSY contains Cannabis sativa leaves as a key ingredient and has traditionally been used to promote sleep, alleviate stress-related symptoms, and stimulate appetite. This study [...] Read more.
Suk-SaiYasna (SSY) is a well-documented traditional Thai herbal formula in the Royal Scripture of King Narai’s Traditional Medicine. SSY contains Cannabis sativa leaves as a key ingredient and has traditionally been used to promote sleep, alleviate stress-related symptoms, and stimulate appetite. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of SSY in a mouse model of unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS)-induced cognitive impairment and explore the underlying mechanisms, particularly antioxidant enzyme pathways. Behavioral tests, including the Y-maze test, novel object recognition test, and Morris water maze test, demonstrated that UCMS-exposed mice exhibited cognitive impairment compared to non-stress mice. However, SSY treatment significantly improved learning and memory performance in UCMS-exposed mice. Mechanistic studies revealed that SSY reduced lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus and frontal cortex, key brain regions affected by chronic stress. Furthermore, UCMS significantly reduced the activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), whereas SSY treatment restored their activity, indicating antioxidative and neuroprotective effects in vivo. Gene expression analysis further revealed that SSY regulates oxidative stress via the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. In vitro studies using 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay confirmed the radical scavenging activities of SSY and its herbal components, demonstrating significant antioxidant potential. Phytochemical analysis identified delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A, and cannabinoids as bioactive compounds in SSY, along with potent antioxidants such as gallic acid, myricetin, myristicin, piperine, costunolide, and gingerol. These findings suggest that the SSY formula mitigates UCMS-induced cognitive function through its antioxidant properties via multiple pathways, including radical scavenging activities, modulating the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway, inducing the expression of HO-1, NQO1 mRNAs, and other antioxidant enzymes. This work bridges traditional Thai medicine with modern neuropharmacology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Neurodegeneration)
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17 pages, 321 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Individuals With or Without Metabolically Healthy Obesity
by Miguel García Samuelsson, Pedro Juan Tárraga López, Ángel Arturo López-González, Carla Busquets-Cortés, Joan Obrador de Hevia and José Ignacio Ramírez-Manent
Biology 2025, 14(6), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14060608 - 26 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 488
Abstract
Background: The concept of metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) has emerged as a controversial yet clinically relevant phenotype, challenging the traditional view that all obese individuals are uniformly at high metabolic risk. However, the long-term health implications of MHO, particularly its association with type [...] Read more.
Background: The concept of metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) has emerged as a controversial yet clinically relevant phenotype, challenging the traditional view that all obese individuals are uniformly at high metabolic risk. However, the long-term health implications of MHO, particularly its association with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), remain poorly defined. Objective: To assess the risk of T2DM in individuals with MHO compared to those with metabolically non-healthy obesity (MNHO), using multiple validated diabetes risk scales across a large population-based cohort. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from over 68,884 adults stratified by sex and BMI-defined obesity status. Metabolic health was categorized using three progressively inclusive definitions based on the number of metabolic syndrome components. Diabetes risk was estimated using Finrisk, Canrisk, TRAQ-D, Thai, Oman, and QD-score tools. Multinomial logistic regression assessed associations between MHO/MNHO phenotypes and high-risk diabetes scores, adjusting for demographic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle variables. Results: Across all definitions and scales, MNHO individuals exhibited significantly higher mean diabetes risk scores and greater prevalence of high-risk categories compared to MHO participants (p < 0.001). Nevertheless, MHO individuals consistently showed elevated diabetes risk relative to non-obese, metabolically healthy controls. Physical inactivity, low educational level, lower socioeconomic status, smoking, and absence of a Mediterranean diet were independently associated with higher diabetes risk. MNHO phenotype was a strong and consistent predictor of high-risk classification across all models. Conclusions: While MHO individuals present a comparatively lower risk of T2DM than their MNHO counterparts, their risk remains substantially higher than that of non-obese individuals. These findings highlight the need to refine risk stratification approaches beyond BMI alone, and to consider metabolic health status in guiding prevention strategies for T2DM. Full article
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10 pages, 462 KiB  
Article
Accuracy of Red Blood Cell Parameters in Predicting α0-Thalassemia Trait Among Non-Anemic Males
by Benchaya Phanthong, Pimlak Charoenkwan, Threebhorn Kamlungkuea, Suchaya Luewan and Threea Tongsong
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(10), 3591; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14103591 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 617
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Red blood cell (RBC) parameters are routinely used to screen for α- and β-thalassemia traits as part of prenatal diagnosis for severe fetal thalassemia in countries with a high prevalence of the disease. In clinical practice, the same cut-off values for [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Red blood cell (RBC) parameters are routinely used to screen for α- and β-thalassemia traits as part of prenatal diagnosis for severe fetal thalassemia in countries with a high prevalence of the disease. In clinical practice, the same cut-off values for these parameters are applied to both females and males. However, given that the normal reference ranges for some RBC parameters differ significantly between sexes, sex-specific cut-off values may be more appropriate, especially in combination. To date, the effectiveness of RBC indices in males for predicting α- and β-thalassemia traits has not been evaluated. The objectives of this study are to assess the diagnostic performance of individual and combined RBC parameters in detecting α0-thalassemia traits among non-anemic males. Methods: This diagnostic study is a secondary analysis of prospectively collected data from our project on prenatal control of severe thalassemia. The study population comprised male partners of pregnant women who underwent thalassemia screening during their first antenatal visit. RBC parameters, including hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red cell distribution width (RDW), and RBC count, were measured for each participant. Carrier status for the α0-thalassemia Southeast Asian (SEA) genotype was confirmed by using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method. The diagnostic performance of each RBC parameter and their combinations, based on predictive models generated using logistic regression, was evaluated and compared using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results: A total of 486 Thai males were recruited for the study, including 137 individuals with the α0-thalassemia trait and 349 with a normal α-thalassemia genotype (control group). All RBC parameters, except for Hct, differed significantly between the two groups. Among the individual indices, MCH exhibited the highest diagnostic accuracy, followed by MCV, with areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.981 and 0.973, respectively. An MCH cut-off value of 26 pg and an MCV cut-off value of 80 fL provided a sensitivity of 100% for both indices, with specificities of 88.5% and 86.8%, respectively. The combination predictive model provided the best diagnostic performance, achieving an AUC of 0.987, which was slightly but significantly higher than that of any individual parameter. This model yielded a sensitivity of 100% and a significantly higher specificity of 90.8% at a cut-off probability of 7.0%. Conclusions: MCH and MCV demonstrated excellent screening performance for identifying α0-thalassemia carriers in males. However, the combination model exhibited even greater accuracy while reducing the false-positive rate. Implementing this model could minimize the need for unnecessary PCR testing, leading to substantial cost savings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Trends and Prospects in Laboratory Hematology)
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13 pages, 4787 KiB  
Article
Automated Redaction of Personally Identifiable Information on Drug Labels Using Optical Character Recognition and Large Language Models for Compliance with Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Act
by Parinya Thetbanthad, Benjaporn Sathanarugsawait and Prasong Praneetpolgrang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 4923; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15094923 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 999
Abstract
The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) across various industries presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly concerning personal data privacy. With the enforcement of regulations like Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), organizations face increasing pressure to protect sensitive information found in diverse [...] Read more.
The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) across various industries presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly concerning personal data privacy. With the enforcement of regulations like Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), organizations face increasing pressure to protect sensitive information found in diverse data sources, including product and shipping labels. These labels, often processed by AI systems for logistics and inventory management, frequently contain Personally Identifiable Information (PII). This paper introduces a novel AI-driven system for automated PII redaction on label images, specifically designed to facilitate PDPA compliance. Our system employs a two-stage pipeline: (1) text extraction using a combination of EasyOCR and Tesseract OCR engines, maximizing recall for both Thai and English text; and (2) intelligent redaction using a pre-trained large language model (LLM), Qwen (Qwen/Qwen2.5-72B-Instruct-AWQ), prompted to identify and classify text segments as PII or non-PII based on simplified PDPA guidelines. Identified PII is then automatically redacted via black masking. We evaluated our system on a dataset of 100 drug label images, achieving a redaction precision of 92.5%, a recall of 83.2%, and an F1-score of 87.6%, with an over-redaction rate of 3.1%. These results demonstrate the system’s effectiveness in accurately redacting PII while preserving the utility of non-sensitive label information. This research contributes a practical, scalable solution for automated PDPA compliance in AI-driven label processing, mitigating privacy risks and promoting responsible AI adoption. Full article
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13 pages, 1116 KiB  
Article
Variability in Survival Outcomes Among Asian Ethnic Groups with Stage IV NSCLC
by Aria Bassiri, Yue-Lin Hu, Christina Boutros, Boxiang Jiang, Jillian Sinopoli, Leonidas Tapias Vargas, Philip A. Linden and Christopher W. Towe
Medicina 2025, 61(4), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61040753 - 19 Apr 2025
Viewed by 506
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Patients of Asian descent are often grouped together despite their diverse ethnicities and genetic backgrounds. Cancer outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetics, environment, and socioeconomic factors. This study aims to describe lung cancer survival outcome variations in [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Patients of Asian descent are often grouped together despite their diverse ethnicities and genetic backgrounds. Cancer outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetics, environment, and socioeconomic factors. This study aims to describe lung cancer survival outcome variations in Asian ethnic subgroups, hypothesizing that significant outcome differences exist between subgroups. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of the 2020 National Cancer Database identified patients with stage IV non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Asian patients were subcategorized into nine groups: Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Asian Indian/Pakistani, Vietnamese, Pacific Islander, Filipino, Laotian/Hmong/Kampuchean/Thai, and Other Asian/Asian not otherwise specified (NOS). The primary outcome was overall survival, and the secondary outcome was utilization of palliative care. Kaplan–Meier analysis and multivariate Cox and logistic modeling were used to assess outcomes of interest. Results: A total of 23,747 Asian patients with stage IV NSCLC were identified. Demographic characteristics of the subgroups varied by age, sex, Charlson–Deyo Comorbidity Index, and utilization of palliative care. Relative to Chinese Asians, multivariate Cox analysis showed worse survival outcomes among patients categorized as Japanese, Korean, Pacific Islanders, Filipino, and Laotian/Hmong/Kampuchean/Thai. The rate of palliative care utilization also varied among Asian subgroups. Compared to Chinese patients, palliative care was more likely to be utilized by patients categorized as Japanese and Pacific Islander. Conclusions: Amongst Asian subgroups, variations in survival outcomes and palliative care utilization in stage IV NSCLC patients were observed. Surgeons should acknowledge these disparities and consider disaggregating Asian races in prognosis analysis to enhance understanding of race’s impact on outcomes. Recognizing these differences is crucial for guiding personalized treatment strategies, optimizing resource allocation, and informing health policy to ensure equitable cancer care for all Asian populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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11 pages, 279 KiB  
Article
Determinants of Quality of Life in Thai Caregivers of Dependent Older Adults: The Role of Health Promotion and Occupational Risks
by Sasithorn Thanapop, Bussarawadee Saengsuwan, Irniza Rasdi and Chamnong Thanapop
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(4), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22040578 - 7 Apr 2025
Viewed by 611
Abstract
Caregiving for dependent older adults presents significant health and occupational challenges, particularly in rural Thailand. This study examines predictors of health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) among in-home caregivers, focusing on health promotion, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevention, and occupational health practices. An analytic cross-sectional [...] Read more.
Caregiving for dependent older adults presents significant health and occupational challenges, particularly in rural Thailand. This study examines predictors of health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) among in-home caregivers, focusing on health promotion, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevention, and occupational health practices. An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted among 701 caregivers across 23 districts in Nakhon Si Thammarat, southern Thailand. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing socio-demographics, health behaviors, working conditions, and HR-QOL using the Thai SF-36V2. Stepwise regression analysis identified key predictors of HR-QOL. Our findings indicate that most caregivers were female (81.5%), middle-aged (mean age: 47.7 years), and had moderate education levels. Over half experienced moderate exposure to occupational hazards, including physical, biological, ergonomic, and psychosocial risks, contributing to job strain, inadequate rest, and strained relationships. HR-QOL scores suggested that a significant proportion of caregivers had moderate to poor quality of life, particularly in physical health domains. Stepwise regression analysis showed that better self-reported health promotion behaviors and occupational hazard prevention practices were positively associated with HR-QOL, whereas the presence of NCDs had a negative impact. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to enhance caregivers’ well-being and inform public health strategies for strengthening community-based care systems. Full article
15 pages, 3553 KiB  
Article
Bite First, Bleed Later: How Philippine Trimeresurus Pit Viper Venoms Hijack Blood Clotting
by Daniel Albert E. Castillo, Lorenzo Seneci, Abhinandan Chowdhury, Marilyn G. Rimando and Bryan G. Fry
Toxins 2025, 17(4), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17040185 - 7 Apr 2025
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Abstract
The Philippines has a high diversity of venomous snake species, but there is minimal information on their envenomation effects. This is evidenced by the small number of case reports, the poor reporting of envenomation cases, and the absence of specific antivenoms apart from [...] Read more.
The Philippines has a high diversity of venomous snake species, but there is minimal information on their envenomation effects. This is evidenced by the small number of case reports, the poor reporting of envenomation cases, and the absence of specific antivenoms apart from one against the Philippine cobra (Naja philippinensis). This study sought to profile the action of selected Philippine pit viper venoms on blood coagulation and to investigate whether commercially available non-specific antivenoms can provide adequate protection against these venoms. Venom from the pit vipers Trimeresurus flavomaculatus and Trimeresurus mcgregori were subjected to coagulation assays, antivenom cross-neutralization tests, and thromboelastography. Venoms from both species were able to clot human plasma and isolated human fibrinogen. Consistent with pseudo-procoagulant/thrombin-like activity, the resulting fibrin clots were weak and transient, thereby contributing to net anticoagulation through the depletion of fibrinogen levels. Clotting factors fIXa and fXa were also inhibited by the venoms, further contributing to the net anticoagulant activity. Monovalent and polyvalent antivenoms from the Thai Red Cross Society were effective against both venoms, indicating cross-neutralization of venom toxins; the polyvalent antivenom was able to rescue fibrinogen clotting to a greater degree than the monovalent antivenom. Our findings highlight the coagulopathic effects of these pit viper venoms and suggest the utility of procuring the non-specific antivenoms for areas in the Philippines with a high risk for pit viper envenomation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Snake Bite and Related Injury)
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13 pages, 1008 KiB  
Article
Convergent Validity of the Lower Quarter Y Balance Test Against Two-Step and Timed Up and Go Tests in Thai Older Adults with and Without Locomotive Syndrome
by Chadapa Rungruangbaiyok, Charupa Lektip, Jiraphat Nawarat, Eiji Miyake, Keiichiro Aoki, Hiroyuki Ohtsuka, Yasuko Inaba, Yoshinori Kagaya and Weeranan Yaemrattanakul
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(4), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22040538 - 1 Apr 2025
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Abstract
Locomotive syndrome (LS) predisposes older adults to falls and functional dependency. In older adults with LS, the validity of the Lower Quarter Y Balance Test (YBT-LQ)—a dynamic balance assessment tool—remains unclear. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the convergent validity of the YBT-LQ [...] Read more.
Locomotive syndrome (LS) predisposes older adults to falls and functional dependency. In older adults with LS, the validity of the Lower Quarter Y Balance Test (YBT-LQ)—a dynamic balance assessment tool—remains unclear. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the convergent validity of the YBT-LQ with the Two-Step and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests and compare YBT-LQ performance between individuals with and without LS. Sixty Thai community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years) were equally divided into LS and non-LS groups and performed the YBT-LQ, Two-Step test, and TUG test. Correlation analyses and independent t-tests assessed relationships and between-group comparisons, respectively. The YBT-LQ exhibited moderate positive correlations with the Two-Step test (r = 0.366, p = 0.004) and moderate negative correlations with the TUG test (r = −0.412, p = 0.001). The LS group exhibited significantly lower YBT-LQ scores across all reach directions than the non-LS group (p < 0.05), highlighting impaired balance in individuals with LS. The YBT-LQ is a valid and reliable tool for assessing dynamic balance and postural control, as well as identifying multidirectional stability deficits in older adults, particularly those with LS. Implementing the YBT-LQ in routine geriatric evaluations could enhance early detection and targeted interventions to reduce fall risk and improve mobility in aging populations. Full article
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