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18 pages, 1899 KiB  
Article
MALAT1 Expression Is Deregulated in miR-34a Knockout Cell Lines
by Andrea Corsi, Tonia De Simone, Angela Valentino, Elisa Orlandi, Chiara Stefani, Cristina Patuzzo, Stefania Fochi, Maria Giusy Bruno, Elisabetta Trabetti, John Charles Rotondo, Chiara Mazziotta, Maria Teresa Valenti, Alessandra Ruggiero, Donato Zipeto, Cristina Bombieri and Maria Grazia Romanelli
Non-Coding RNA 2025, 11(4), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna11040060 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Non-coding microRNA-34a (miR-34a) regulates the expression of key factors involved in several cellular processes, such as differentiation, apoptosis, proliferation, cell cycle, and senescence. Deregulation of the expression of these factors is implicated in the onset and progression of several human diseases, including [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Non-coding microRNA-34a (miR-34a) regulates the expression of key factors involved in several cellular processes, such as differentiation, apoptosis, proliferation, cell cycle, and senescence. Deregulation of the expression of these factors is implicated in the onset and progression of several human diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and pathologies associated with viral infections and inflammation. Despite numerous studies, the molecular mechanisms regulated by miR-34a remain to be fully understood. The present study aimed to generate miR-34a knockout cell lines to identify novel genes potentially regulated by its expression. Methods: We employed the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system to knock out the hsa-miR-34a gene in HeLa and 293T cell lines, two widely used models for studying molecular and cellular mechanisms. We compared proliferation rates and gene expression profiles via RNA-seq and qPCR analyses between the wild-type and miR-34a KO cell lines. Results: Knockout of miR-34a resulted in a decreased proliferation rate in both cell lines. Noteworthy, the ablation of miR-34a resulted in increased expression of the long non-coding RNA MALAT1. Additionally, miR-34a-5p silencing in the A375 melanoma cell line led to MALAT1 overexpression. Conclusions: Our findings support the role of the miR-34a/MALAT1 axis in regulating proliferation processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Long Non-Coding RNA)
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38 pages, 1418 KiB  
Review
Efficacy of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation in Primary Progressive Aphasia Treatment: A Review
by Elena Gobbi, Ilaria Pagnoni, Elena Campana, Rosa Manenti and Maria Cotelli
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(8), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15080839 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the application of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS) to enhance and rehabilitate the language abilities in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases. Objective: The aim of this narrative literature review [...] Read more.
Background: In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the application of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS) to enhance and rehabilitate the language abilities in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases. Objective: The aim of this narrative literature review is to investigate the usefulness of rTMS and tDCS to improve language abilities in people with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA). Methods: This narrative literature review was conducted through a search of the PubMed online database to identify studies investigating the effects of multiple sessions of rTMS or tDCS on language abilities in PPA patients, applied either as stand-alone interventions or in combination with language treatment. Results: Thirty-three studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria; five studies employed rTMS without language treatment; two studies applied tDCS as stand-alone intervention; twenty-two studies combined tDCS with language treatment; and four studies assessed the effects of tDCS during verbal task without language treatment. Conclusions: rTMS and tDCS applied with or without concomitant language treatment appear to be promising interventions for enhancing language abilities in PPA, with sustained effects reported over time. Further research is necessary to optimise stimulation protocols and to improve our understanding of their long-term effects. Moreover, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with larger sample sizes are critically needed to clarify the true impact of brain stimulation in PPA, with a focus on changes in cognitive and functional performance, neural activity, and potential molecular correlates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on the Treatments of Speech and Language Disorders)
18 pages, 5256 KiB  
Article
Impact of Alginate Oligosaccharides on Ovarian Performance and the Gut Microbial Community in Mice with D-Galactose-Induced Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
by Yan Zhang, Hongda Pan, Dao Xiang, Hexuan Qu and Shuang Liang
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14080962 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an important factor in female infertility and is often associated with oxidative stress. Alginate oligosaccharides (AOSs), derived from the degradation of alginate, have been demonstrated to have protective effects against various oxidative stress-related diseases. However, the impact of [...] Read more.
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an important factor in female infertility and is often associated with oxidative stress. Alginate oligosaccharides (AOSs), derived from the degradation of alginate, have been demonstrated to have protective effects against various oxidative stress-related diseases. However, the impact of AOSs on POI has not been previously explored. The current study explored the effects of AOSs on ovarian dysfunction in a mouse model of POI induced by D-galactose (D-gal). Female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups: the control (CON), POI model (D-gal), and low-, medium-, and high-dose AOS groups (AOS-L, 100 mg/kg/day; AOS-M, 150 mg/kg/day; AOS-H, 200 mg/kg/day). For 42 consecutive days, mice in the D-gal, AOS-L, AOS-M, and AOS-H groups received daily intraperitoneal injections of D-gal (200 mg/kg/day), whereas those in the CON group received equivalent volumes of sterile saline. Following D-gal injection, AOSs were administered via gavage at the specified doses; mice in the CON and D-gal groups received sterile saline instead. AOS treatment markedly improved estrous cycle irregularities, normalized serum hormone levels, reduced granulosa cell apoptosis, and increased follicle counts in POI mice. Moreover, AOSs significantly reduced ovarian oxidative stress and senescence in POI mice, as indicated by lower levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), higher activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and decreased protein expression of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), nitrotyrosine (NTY), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and p16 in ovarian tissue. Analysis of the gut microbiota through 16S rRNA gene sequencing and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) analysis revealed significant differences in gut microbiota composition and SCFA levels (acetic acid and total SCFAs) between control and D-gal-induced POI mice. These differences were largely alleviated by AOS treatment. AOSs changed the gut microbiota by increasing the abundance of Ligilactobacillus and decreasing the abundance of Clostridiales, Clostridiaceae, Marinifilaceae, and Clostridium_T. Additionally, AOSs mitigated the decline in acetic acid and total SCFA levels observed in POI mice. Notably, the total SCFA level was significantly correlated with the abundance of Ligilactobacillus, Marinifilaceae, and Clostridium_T. In conclusion, AOS intervention effectively mitigates ovarian oxidative stress, restores gut microbiota homeostasis, and regulates the microbiota–SCFA axis, collectively improving D-gal-induced POI. Therefore, AOSs represent a promising therapeutic strategy for POI management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Outcomes of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress)
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23 pages, 4178 KiB  
Article
Taxonomic Biomarkers of Gut Microbiota with Potential Clinical Utility in Mexican Adults with Obesity and Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms
by María Alejandra Samudio-Cruz, Daniel Cerqueda-García, Elizabeth Cabrera-Ruiz, Alexandra Luna-Angulo, Samuel Canizales-Quinteros, Carlos Landa-Solis, Gabriela Angélica Martínez-Nava, Paul Carrillo-Mora, Edgar Rangel-López, Juan Ríos-Martínez, Blanca López-Contreras, Jesús Fernando Valencia-León and Laura Sánchez-Chapul
Microorganisms 2025, 13(8), 1828; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13081828 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
While the gut microbiota of obese children in Mexico has been studied, its relationship with depressive and anxiety symptoms in obese adults remains unexplored. The aim of this study was to describe the gut microbiota profile of Mexican adults with obesity and its [...] Read more.
While the gut microbiota of obese children in Mexico has been studied, its relationship with depressive and anxiety symptoms in obese adults remains unexplored. The aim of this study was to describe the gut microbiota profile of Mexican adults with obesity and its association with depression and anxiety. We sequenced the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene from stool samples of obese adults categorized into four groups: control (OCG), with depressive symptoms (OD), with anxiety symptoms (OAx), or with both (ODAx). Alpha diversity was assessed using t-tests, beta diversity was assessed with PERMANOVA, and taxonomic differences was assessed with LEfSe. Associations between bacterial genera and clinical variables were analyzed using the Maaslin2 library. Bacteroidota was the most prevalent phylum, and Prevotella was the dominant enterotype across all groups. Although overall diversity did not differ significantly, 30 distinct taxonomic biomarkers were identified among groups as follows: 4 in OCG (Firmicutes), 5 in OD (Firmicutes, Bacteroidota), 13 in OAx (Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Fusobacteroidota, Proteobacteria), and 8 in ODAx (Firmicutes). This is the first study to identify distinct gut microbiota profiles in obese Mexican adults with depressive and anxiety symptoms. These findings suggest important microbial biomarkers for improving the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions in obesity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiota: Influences and Impacts on Human Health)
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27 pages, 6602 KiB  
Article
Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Delivery of AntimiR-Conjugated Bio-Gold Nanoparticles for In Vivo Tumor Targeting
by Parastoo Pourali, Eva Neuhöferová, Behrooz Yahyaei, Milan Svoboda, Adéla Buchnarová and Veronika Benson
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17081015 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in cell-to-cell communication and delivery of signaling molecules and represent an interesting approach in targeted therapy. This project focused on EV-mediated facilitation and cell-specific delivery of effector antimiR molecules carried by biologically produced gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in cell-to-cell communication and delivery of signaling molecules and represent an interesting approach in targeted therapy. This project focused on EV-mediated facilitation and cell-specific delivery of effector antimiR molecules carried by biologically produced gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Methods: First, we loaded EVs derived from cancer cells 4T1 with AuNPs-antimiR. The AuNPs were also decorated with or without transferrin (Tf) molecules. We examined parental cell-specific delivery of the AuNPs-Tf-antimiR within monocultures as well as co-cultures in vitro. Subsequently, we used autologous EVs containing AuNPs-Tf-antimiR to target tumor cells in a xenograft tumor model in vivo. Efficacy of the antimir transfer was assessed by qPCR and apoptosis assessment. Results: In vitro, EVs loaded with AuNPs-antimiR were internalized only by the parental cells and the AuNPs-antimiR transfer was successful and effective only in EVs that were decorated with Tf. We achieved effective delivery of the antimiR molecule into cancer cells in vivo, which was proved by specific silencing of the target oncogenic miRNA as well as induction of cancer cells apoptosis. Conclusions: EVs represent an interesting and potent way for targeted cargo delivery and personalized medicine. On the other hand, there are various safety and efficacy challenges that remain to be addressed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell-Mediated Delivery Systems)
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20 pages, 14417 KiB  
Article
Toward Wearable MagnetoCardioGraphy (MCG) for Cognitive Workload Monitoring: Advancements in Sensor and Study Design
by Ali Kaiss, Jingzhen Yang and Asimina Kiourti
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4806; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154806 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Despite cognitive workload (CW) being a critical metric in several applications, no technology exists to seamlessly and reliably quantify CW. Previously, we demonstrated the feasibility of a wearable MagnetoCardioGraphy (MCG) sensor to classify high vs. low CW based on MCG-derived heart rate variability [...] Read more.
Despite cognitive workload (CW) being a critical metric in several applications, no technology exists to seamlessly and reliably quantify CW. Previously, we demonstrated the feasibility of a wearable MagnetoCardioGraphy (MCG) sensor to classify high vs. low CW based on MCG-derived heart rate variability (mHRV). However, our sensor was unable to address certain critical operational requirements, resulting in noisy signals, often to the point of being unusable. In addition, test conditions for the participants were not decoupled from motion (i.e., physical activity (PA)), raising questions as to whether the noted changes in mHRV were attributed to CW, PA, or both. This study reports software and hardware advancements to optimize the MCG data quality, and investigates whether changes in CW (in the absence of PA) can be reliably detected. Performance is validated for healthy adults (n = 10) performing three types of CW tasks (one for low CW and two for high CW to eliminate the memory effect). Results demonstrate the ability to retrieve MCG R-peaks throughout the recordings, as well as the ability to differentiate high vs. low CW in all cases, confirming that CW does modulate the mHRV. A paired Bonferroni t-test with significance α=0.01 confirms the hypothesis that an increase in CW decreases mHRV. Our findings lay the groundwork toward a seamless, practical, and low-cost sensor for monitoring CW. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wearables)
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13 pages, 367 KiB  
Article
Psychometric Properties of the Greek Version of the Claustrophobia Questionnaire
by Varvara Pantoleon, Petros Galanis, Athanasios Tsochatzis, Foteini Christidi, Efstratios Karavasilis, Nikolaos Kelekis and Georgios Velonakis
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1059; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081059 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Claustrophobia is defined as the fear of enclosed spaces, and it is a rather common specific phobia. Although the Claustrophobia Questionnaire (CLQ) is a valid questionnaire to measure claustrophobia, there have been no studies validating this tool in Greek. Thus, our [...] Read more.
Background: Claustrophobia is defined as the fear of enclosed spaces, and it is a rather common specific phobia. Although the Claustrophobia Questionnaire (CLQ) is a valid questionnaire to measure claustrophobia, there have been no studies validating this tool in Greek. Thus, our aim was to translate and validate the CLQ in Greek. Methods: We applied the forward–backward translation method to translate the English CLQ into Greek. We conducted confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to examine the two-factor model of the CLQ. We examined the convergent and divergent validity of the Greek CLQ by using the Fear Survey Schedule-III (FSS-III-CL), the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI-NL-N), and the Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). We examined the convergent validity of the Greek CLQ by calculating Pearson’s correlation coefficient between the CLQ scores and scores on FSS-III-CL, NEO-FFI-NL-N, STAI-S (state anxiety), and STAI-T (trait anxiety). We examined the divergent validity of the Greek CLQ using the Fisher r-to-z transformation. To further evaluate the discriminant validity of the CLQ, we calculated the average variance extracted (AVE) score and the Composite Reliability (CR) score. We calculated the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s alpha to assess the reliability of the Greek CLQ. Results: Our CFA confirmed the two-factor model of the CLQ since all the model fit indices were very good. Standardized regression weights between the 26 items of the CLQ and the two factors ranged from 0.559 to 0.854. The convergent validity of the Greek CLQ was very good since it correlated strongly with the FSS-III-CL and moderately with the NEO-FFI-NL-N and the STAI. Additionally, the Greek CLQ correlated more highly with the FSS-III-CL than with the NEO-FFI-NL-N and the STAI, indicating very good divergent validity. The AVE for the suffocation factor was 0.573, while for the restriction factor, it was 0.543, which are both higher than the acceptable value of 0.50. Moreover, the CR score for the suffocation factor was 0.949, while for the restriction factor, it was 0.954. The reliability of the Greek CLQ was excellent since the ICC in test–retest study was 0.986 and the Cronbach’s alpha was 0.956. Conclusions: The Greek version of the CLQ is a reliable and valid tool to measure levels of claustrophobia among individuals. Full article
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18 pages, 8203 KiB  
Article
Puerarin Enhances Eggshell Quality by Mitigating Uterine Senescence in Late-Phase Laying Breeder Hens
by Zhenwu Huang, Guangju Wang, Mengjie Xu, Yanru Shi, Jinghai Feng, Minhong Zhang and Chunmei Li
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14080960 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The deterioration of uterine calcium transport capacity induced by aging is a common problem for late-laying period hens, causing decline in eggshell quality. This study aimed to investigate the effects and possible regulatory mechanisms of dietary puerarin (PU) on calcium transport and eggshell [...] Read more.
The deterioration of uterine calcium transport capacity induced by aging is a common problem for late-laying period hens, causing decline in eggshell quality. This study aimed to investigate the effects and possible regulatory mechanisms of dietary puerarin (PU) on calcium transport and eggshell quality in aged hens. Two hundred eighty-eight Hubbard Efficiency Plus broiler breeder hens (50-week-old) were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments containing 0, 40, or 200 mg/kg puerarin (PU), with 8 replicates of 12 birds each, for an 8-week trial. The results demonstrated that dietary PU ameliorated the eggshell thickness and strength, which in turn reduced the broken egg rate (p < 0.05). Histological analysis showed that PU improved uterus morphology and increased epithelium height in the uterus (p < 0.05). Antioxidative capacity was significantly improved via upregulation of Nrf2, HO-1, and GPX1 mRNA expression in the uterus (p < 0.05), along with enhanced total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity, and decreased levels of the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, PU treatment reduced the apoptotic index of the uterus, followed by a significant decrease in expression of pro-apoptotic genes Caspase3 and BAX and the rate of BAX/BCL-2. Additionally, calcium content in serum and uterus, as well as the activity of Ca2+-ATPase in the duodenum and uterus, were increased by dietary PU (p < 0.05). The genes involved in calcium transport including ERα, KCNA1, CABP-28K, and OPN in the uterus were upregulated by PU supplementation (p < 0.05). The 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that dietary PU supplementation could reverse the age-related decline in the relative abundance of Bacteroidota within the uterus (p < 0.05). Overall, dietary PU can improve eggshell quality and calcium transport through enhanced antioxidative defenses and mitigation of age-related uterine degeneration. Full article
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19 pages, 513 KiB  
Review
Recent Trends in Surgical Strategies of Early-Stage Gallbladder Cancer: A Narrative Review
by Junseo Choi, Ji Su Kim and Jun Suh Lee
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5483; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155483 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a lethal malignancy curable only by surgical resection in early stages (Tis, T1, T2). Significant controversy exists regarding the optimal extent of surgery. This review summarizes recent trends and evidence on surgical strategies for Tis, T1, and T2 [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a lethal malignancy curable only by surgical resection in early stages (Tis, T1, T2). Significant controversy exists regarding the optimal extent of surgery. This review summarizes recent trends and evidence on surgical strategies for Tis, T1, and T2 GBC to guide practice and research. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes recent literature on surgical management of Tis, T1a, T1b, and T2 GBC based on American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th edition staging. It examines simple vs. extended cholecystectomy (simple cholecystectomy (SC) vs. extended/radical cholecystectomy (EC/RC)), the role of lymphadenectomy (LND) and hepatectomy, and minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Results: Simple cholecystectomy is curative for Tis/T1a GBC. For T1b, regional LND is essential for staging/potential benefit, especially examining ≥5–6 nodes. Tumor size is critical; SC alone may suffice for T1b < 1 cm (low lymph node metastasis (LNM) risk), while EC/RC with LND is indicated for ≥1 cm (higher LNM risk). Routine hepatectomy for T1b lacks survival support. For T2 GBC, mandatory regional LND (≥6 nodes) is required for both T2a and T2b substages due to high LNM rates; T2b has higher LNM than T2a. Routine hepatectomy for T2 is debated; evidence suggests no routine benefit for T2a beyond LND, with conflicting findings for T2b. R0 resection is paramount. MIS is feasible for early stages in experienced hands. Conclusions: Management of early GBC is moving towards risk stratification. SC is standard for Tis/T1a. Adequate regional LND is crucial for T1b (especially ≥1 cm) and mandatory for T2 GBC. Routine hepatectomy, particularly for T2b, remains controversial. Tailored surgery prioritizes R0 resection and comprehensive LND, necessitating further standardized research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Trends in Visceral and Gastrointestinal Surgery)
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30 pages, 15717 KiB  
Article
Channel Amplitude and Phase Error Estimation of Fully Polarimetric Airborne SAR with 0.1 m Resolution
by Jianmin Hu, Yanfei Wang, Jinting Xie, Guangyou Fang, Huanjun Chen, Yan Shen, Zhenyu Yang and Xinwen Zhang
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2699; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152699 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
In order to achieve 0.1 m resolution and fully polarimetric observation capabilities for airborne SAR systems, the adoption of stepped-frequency modulation waveform combined with the polarization time-division transmit/receive (T/R) technique proves to be an effective technical approach. Considering the issue of range resolution [...] Read more.
In order to achieve 0.1 m resolution and fully polarimetric observation capabilities for airborne SAR systems, the adoption of stepped-frequency modulation waveform combined with the polarization time-division transmit/receive (T/R) technique proves to be an effective technical approach. Considering the issue of range resolution degradation and paired echoes caused by multichannel amplitude–phase mismatch in fully polarimetric airborne SAR with 0.1 m resolution, an amplitude–phase error estimation algorithm based on echo data is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the subband amplitude spectrum correction curve is obtained by the statistical average of the subband amplitude spectrum. Secondly, the paired-echo broadening function is obtained by selecting high-quality sample points after single-band imaging and the nonlinear phase error within the subbands is estimated via Sinusoidal Frequency Modulation Fourier Transform (SMFT). Thirdly, based on the minimum entropy criterion of the synthesized compressed pulse image, residual linear phase errors between subbands are quickly acquired. Finally, two-dimensional cross-correlation of the image slice is utilized to estimate the positional deviation between polarization channels. This method only requires high-quality data samples from the echo data, then rapidly estimates both intra-band and inter-band amplitude/phase errors by using SMFT and the minimum entropy criterion, respectively, with the characteristics of low computational complexity and fast convergence speed. The effectiveness of this method is verified by the imaging results of the experimental data. Full article
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13 pages, 1191 KiB  
Article
Linking Heart Function to Prognosis: The Role of a Novel Echocardiographic Index and NT-proBNP in Acute Heart Failure
by Dan-Cristian Popescu, Mara Ciobanu, Diana Țînț and Alexandru-Cristian Nechita
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081412 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Risk stratification in acute heart failure (AHF) remains challenging, particularly in settings where biomarker availability is limited. Echocardiography offers valuable hemodynamic insights, but no single parameter fully captures the complexity of biventricular dysfunction and pressure overload. This study aimed to [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Risk stratification in acute heart failure (AHF) remains challenging, particularly in settings where biomarker availability is limited. Echocardiography offers valuable hemodynamic insights, but no single parameter fully captures the complexity of biventricular dysfunction and pressure overload. This study aimed to evaluate a novel echocardiographic index (ViRTUE IndexVTI-RVRA-TAPSE Unified Evaluation) integrating a peak systolic gradient between the right ventricle and right atrium (RV-RA gradient), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), the velocity–time integral in the left ventricular outflow tract (VTI LVOT), NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro–B-type Natriuretic Peptide) levels, and in-hospital mortality among patients with AHF. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 123 patients admitted with AHF. Echocardiographic evaluation at admission included TAPSE, VTI LVOT, and the RV-RA gradient. An index was calculated as RVRA gradient TAPSE x VTI LVOT. NT-proBNP levels and in-hospital outcomes were recorded. Statistical analysis included correlation, logistic regression, and ROC curve evaluation. Results: The proposed index showed a significant positive correlation with NT-proBNP values (r = 0.543, p < 0.0001) and good discriminative ability for elevated NT-proBNP (AUC = 0.79). It also correlated with in-hospital mortality (r = 0.193, p = 0.032) and showed moderate prognostic performance (AUC = 0.68). Higher index values were associated with greater mortality risk. Conclusions: This novel index, based on standard echocardiographic measurements, reflects both systolic dysfunction and pressure overload in AHF. Its correlation with NT-proBNP and in-hospital mortality highlights its potential as a practical, accessible bedside tool for early risk stratification, particularly when biomarker testing is unavailable or delayed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Updates on Prevention of Acute Heart Failure)
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14 pages, 1588 KiB  
Case Report
Fatal Cytokine Collision: HLH–AIHA in Advanced AIDS—Case Report and Literature Review
by Xiaoyi Zhang, Maria Felix Torres Nolasco, Wing Fai Li, Toru Yoshino and Manasa Anipindi
Reports 2025, 8(3), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports8030137 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) are both life-threatening hematologic syndromes that rarely present together outside of malignancy. Advanced acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) creates a milieu of profound immune dysregulation and hyperinflammation, predisposing patients to atypical [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) are both life-threatening hematologic syndromes that rarely present together outside of malignancy. Advanced acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) creates a milieu of profound immune dysregulation and hyperinflammation, predisposing patients to atypical overlaps of these disorders. Case Presentation: A 30-year-old woman with poorly controlled AIDS presented with three weeks of jaundice, fever, and fatigue. Initial labs revealed pancytopenia, hyperbilirubinemia, and elevated ferritin level. Direct anti-globulin testing confirmed warm AIHA (IgG+/C3d+) with transient cold agglutinins. Despite intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), rituximab, and transfusions, she developed hepatosplenomegaly, extreme hyperferritinemia, and sIL-2R > 10,000 pg/mL, meeting HLH-2004 criteria. Bone marrow biopsy excluded malignancy; further work-up revealed Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) viremia and cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation. Dexamethasone plus reduced-dose etoposide transiently reduced soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) but precipitated profound pancytopenia, Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) from CMV/parainfluenza pneumonia, bilateral deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). She ultimately died of hemorrhagic shock after anticoagulation despite maximal supportive measures. Conclusions: This case underscores the diagnostic challenges of HLH-AIHA overlap in AIDS, where cytopenias and hyperferritinemia mask the underlying cytokine storm. Pathogenesis likely involved IL-6/IFN-γ overproduction, impaired cytotoxic T-cell function, and molecular mimicry. While etoposide remains a cornerstone of HLH therapy, its myelotoxicity proved catastrophic in this immunocompromised host, highlighting the urgent need for cytokine-targeted agents to mitigate treatment-related mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Allergy/Immunology)
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16 pages, 8522 KiB  
Article
Plant Extracts as Modulators of the Wound Healing Process—Preliminary Study
by Anna Herman, Aleksandra Leska, Patrycja Wińska and Andrzej Przemysław Herman
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7490; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157490 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
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Abstract
The treatment of chronic wounds is one of the most complex therapeutic problems of modern medicine. It leads to patients’ protracted recovery, generating high treatment costs. Herbal products may be useful in the treatment of chronic wounds via a wide range of pharmacological [...] Read more.
The treatment of chronic wounds is one of the most complex therapeutic problems of modern medicine. It leads to patients’ protracted recovery, generating high treatment costs. Herbal products may be useful in the treatment of chronic wounds via a wide range of pharmacological properties and multidirectional effects on the wound healing phases. The study aims to determine the ability of selected plant extracts to modulate the processes involved in wound healing. The antimicrobial (MIC, MBC, MFC) and antioxidant (ABTS, DPPH) activities, cytotoxicity (MTT test), scratch wound test, and collagen assay were tested. R. canina (MBC 0.39 mg/mL) and V. venifera (MBC 3.13 mg/mL) extracts had bactericidal activities against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus, respectively. The V. vinifera extract showed the highest antioxidant activity in both ABTS (EC50 0.078 mg/mL) and DPPH (EC50 0.005 mg/mL) methods. The percentage of wound closure observed for C. cardunculus, R. rosea, and R. canina extracts with HaCaT, and V. vinifera extract with Hs27 cells was set as 100%. V. vinifera extract (50 μg/mL) stimulated collagen synthesis 5.16 times more strongly than ascorbic acid. Our preliminary study showed that some plant extracts may be promising modulators of the wound healing process, although further in-depth studies are necessary to determine their effectiveness in the in vivo model. Full article
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24 pages, 1376 KiB  
Article
Smart Agriculture in Ecuador: Adoption of IoT Technologies by Farmers in Guayas to Improve Agricultural Yields
by Ruth Rubí Peña-Holguín, Carlos Andrés Vaca-Coronel, Ruth María Farías-Lema, Sonnia Valeria Zapatier-Castro and Juan Diego Valenzuela-Cobos
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151679 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 250
Abstract
The adoption of digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), has emerged as a key strategy to improve efficiency, sustainability, and productivity in the agricultural sector, especially in contexts of modernization and digital transformation in developing regions. This study analyzes the [...] Read more.
The adoption of digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), has emerged as a key strategy to improve efficiency, sustainability, and productivity in the agricultural sector, especially in contexts of modernization and digital transformation in developing regions. This study analyzes the key factors influencing the adoption of IoT technologies by farmers in the province of Guayas, Ecuador, and their impact on agricultural yields. The research is grounded in innovation diffusion theory and technology acceptance models, which emphasize the role of perception, usability, training, and economic viability in digital adoption. A total of 250 surveys were administered, with 232 valid responses (92.8% response rate), reflecting strong interest from the agricultural sector in digital transformation and precision agriculture. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), the results confirm that general perception of IoT (β = 0.514), practical functionality (β = 0.488), and technical training (β = 0.523) positively influence adoption, while high implementation costs negatively affect it (β = −0.651), all of which are statistically significant (p < 0.001). Furthermore, adoption has a strong positive effect on agricultural yield (β = 0.795). The model explained a high percentage of variance in both adoption (R2 = 0.771) and performance (R2 = 0.706), supporting its predictive capacity. These findings underscore the need for public and private institutions to implement targeted training and financing strategies to overcome economic barriers and foster the sustainable integration of IoT technologies in Ecuadorian agriculture. Full article
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28 pages, 2816 KiB  
Article
Influence of the Origin, Feeding Status, and Trypanosoma cruzi Infection in the Microbial Composition of the Digestive Tract of Triatoma pallidipennis
by Everardo Gutiérrez-Millán, Alba N. Lecona-Valera, Mario H. Rodriguez and Ana E. Gutiérrez-Cabrera
Biology 2025, 14(8), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080984 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
Triatoma pallidipennis, the main vector of Chagas disease in central Mexico, hosts a diverse and complex gut bacterial community shaped by environmental and physiological factors. To gain insight into these microbes’ dynamics, we characterised the gut bacterial communities of wild and insectary [...] Read more.
Triatoma pallidipennis, the main vector of Chagas disease in central Mexico, hosts a diverse and complex gut bacterial community shaped by environmental and physiological factors. To gain insight into these microbes’ dynamics, we characterised the gut bacterial communities of wild and insectary insects under different feeding and Trypanosoma cruzi infection conditions, using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We identified 91 bacterial genera across 8 phyla, with Proteobacteria dominating most samples. Wild insects showed greater bacterial diversity, led by Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas, while insectary insects exhibited lower diversity and were dominated by Arsenophonus. The origin of the insects, whether they were reared in the insectary (laboratory) or collected from wild populations, was the principal factor structuring the gut microbiota, followed by feeding and T. cruzi infection. A stable core microbiota of 12 bacterial genera was present across all conditions, suggesting key functional roles in host physiology. Co-occurrence and functional enrichment analyses revealed that feeding and infection induced condition-specific microbial interactions and metabolic pathways. Our findings highlight the ecological plasticity of the triatomine gut microbiota and its potential role in modulating vector competence, providing a foundation for future microbiota-based control strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic Interactions between the Gut Microbiome and Host)
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