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10 pages, 1139 KiB  
Case Report
Choledochal Stenting for Treatment of Extrahepatic Biliary Obstruction in Dogs with Ruptured Gallbladder: 2 Cases
by Shin-Ho Lee, Jeong-Hyun Seo and Jae-Hyeon Cho
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(7), 673; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12070673 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 410
Abstract
Two geriatric (>9 years old) dogs presented with vomiting, depression, and anorexia and were diagnosed with extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO) secondary to ruptured gallbladder mucoceles. Diagnosis was based on serum biochemical analysis, abdominal radiography, and ultrasonography, which revealed gallbladder rupture, peritonitis, and common [...] Read more.
Two geriatric (>9 years old) dogs presented with vomiting, depression, and anorexia and were diagnosed with extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO) secondary to ruptured gallbladder mucoceles. Diagnosis was based on serum biochemical analysis, abdominal radiography, and ultrasonography, which revealed gallbladder rupture, peritonitis, and common bile duct dilation. Both dogs underwent emergency surgical intervention involving cholecystectomy and choledochal stent placement in the common bile duct without cholecystojejunostomy or cholecystoduodenostomy. Postoperatively, the clinical symptoms and serum chemistry values improved, and both dogs survived without recurrence for over one year. These cases demonstrate that choledochal stenting can be an effective adjunct to cholecystectomy for managing EHBO in dogs with ruptured gallbladder mucoceles, potentially preventing reocclusion and promoting recovery, especially when histopathological evaluation is not feasible in clinical settings. However, persistent elevation of liver enzymes may occur postoperatively, necessitating prolonged monitoring and medical management in some cases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small Animal Gastrointestinal Diseases: Challenges and Advances)
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27 pages, 5055 KiB  
Article
Physical–Mathematical Modeling and Simulations for a Feasible Oscillating Water Column Plant
by Fabio Caldarola, Manuela Carini, Alessandro Costarella, Gioia De Raffele and Mario Maiolo
Mathematics 2025, 13(14), 2219; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13142219 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 307
Abstract
The focus of this paper is placed on Oscillating Water Column (OWC) systems. The primary aim is to analyze, through both mathematical modeling and numerical simulations, a single module (chamber) of an OWC plant which, in addition to energy production, offers the dual [...] Read more.
The focus of this paper is placed on Oscillating Water Column (OWC) systems. The primary aim is to analyze, through both mathematical modeling and numerical simulations, a single module (chamber) of an OWC plant which, in addition to energy production, offers the dual advantage of large-scale integration into port infrastructures or coastal defense structures such as breakwaters, etc. The core challenge lies in optimizing the geometry of the OWC chamber and its associated ducts. A trapezoidal cross-section is adopted, with various front wall inclinations ranging from 90° to 45°. This geometric parameter significantly affects both the internal compression ratio and the hydrodynamic behavior of incoming and outgoing waves. Certain inclinations revealed increased turbulence and notable interference with waves reflected from the chamber bottom which determined an unexpected drop in efficiency. The optimal performance occurred at an inclination of approximately 55°, yielding an efficiency of around 12.8%, because it represents the most advantageous and balanced compromise between counter-trend phenomena. A detailed analysis is carried out on several key parameters for the different configurations (e.g., internal and external wave elevations, crest phase shifts, pressures, hydraulic loads, efficiency, etc.) to reach the most in-depth analysis possible of the complex phenomena that come into play. Lastly, the study also discusses the additional structural and functional benefits of inclined walls over traditional parallelepiped-shaped chambers, both from a structural and construction point of view, and for the possible use for coastal defense. Full article
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16 pages, 5034 KiB  
Article
The EGFR Signaling Pathway Is Involved in the Biliary Intraepithelial Neoplasia Associated with Liver Fluke Infection
by Dmitry Ponomarev, Oxana Zaparina, Anna Kovner, Elena Hadieva, Mikhail Persidskij and Maria Pakharukova
Pathogens 2025, 14(7), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14070620 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 440
Abstract
Foodborne trematode infections are recognized as a significant risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) in endemic regions. Infection with the liver fluke Opisthorchis felineus induces precursor lesions of CCA, including the biliary intraepithelial neoplasia. The mechanisms underlying liver-fluke-associated neoplasia remain poorly understood. This study [...] Read more.
Foodborne trematode infections are recognized as a significant risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) in endemic regions. Infection with the liver fluke Opisthorchis felineus induces precursor lesions of CCA, including the biliary intraepithelial neoplasia. The mechanisms underlying liver-fluke-associated neoplasia remain poorly understood. This study aims to identify the role of EGFR and Toll-like receptor 4-associated signaling pathways in bile duct epithelial neoplasia linked to liver fluke infection in patients, animal models, and cell models. Elevated levels of EGFR and phosphorylated EGFR were observed in the bile duct epithelium of patients with cholangiocarcinoma, as well as in the bile duct epithelium of laboratory hamsters. The EGFR content correlated with the degree of bile duct epithelial neoplasia. Additionally, a significant increase in the cell proliferation and migration rates of human H69 cholangiocytes was found, whereas those of HepG2 hepatoma cells remained unaffected following the helminth excretory–secretory product (ESP) treatment. An EGFR inhibitor eliminated the enhanced cell proliferation (p = 0.005) and migration (p = 0.001) rates. Similar outcomes were achieved using Marimastat, an inhibitor of TLR-4-associated metalloproteinases. Thus, our study unveils novel avenues for exploring the mechanisms of helminth-associated carcinogenesis and for identifying key components of ESPs that mediate their mitogenic effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Parasitic Pathogens)
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15 pages, 1420 KiB  
Article
Malignancy and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Incidence and Prevalence of Malignancy in Correlation to IBD Therapy and Disease Activity—A Retrospective Cohort Analysis over 5 Years
by Agnieszka Jowita Kafel, Anna Muzalyova and Elisabeth Schnoy
Biomedicines 2025, 13(6), 1395; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13061395 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 673
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at an increased risk of various cancers; such as colorectal cancer; skin cancer; bile duct cancer; or lymphoma; with IBD itself not being the sole cause. Inappropriate or ineffective IBD therapy with a continuous [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at an increased risk of various cancers; such as colorectal cancer; skin cancer; bile duct cancer; or lymphoma; with IBD itself not being the sole cause. Inappropriate or ineffective IBD therapy with a continuous inflammatory burden within the gut leads to an increased risk of malignancy. Our study aimed to investigate the risk of malignancy in our patient cohort; focusing on concomitant therapy; disease duration; and inflammatory burden. Methods: A total of 333 consecutive adult patients with IBD (Crohn’s disease; ulcerative colitis; and IBD unclassified) were included in this study. Data from patients were collected retrospectively using patient charts. The patients were treated in the gastroenterological outpatient clinic of the University Hospital of Augsburg; Germany; between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018. Results: The study group included 333 patients; 32 (9.61%) of whom suffered from malignancy (any form). Men (n = 21; 65.62%) tended to develop malignancy more often than women (n = 11; 34.38%, p = 0.051). It was also observed that the probability of developing cancer was 2.40 times higher in male patients than in female patients in our cohort. However, this trend was non-significant (HR = 2.412; p = 0.075). Furthermore; the probability of developing cancer increased with the increasing age at the time of the first diagnosis of IBD (HR = 1.088; p < 0.025). A total of 20 patients (6.00%) received their cancer diagnosis after being diagnosed with IBD. The majority of those patients had skin (n = 6; 30.00%) or colon cancer (n = 5; 25.00%). Other diseases such as CML; NHL; HL; HCC; liver sarcoma; prostate cancer; breast cancer; seminoma; thyroid cancer (a second cancer in one of the patients); or CUP syndrome/lung cancer were diagnosed in single patients. Patients with IBD and colon cancer (n = 5; 25.00%) shared some of the known risk factors for tumour development; such as a long-lasting IBD (n = 5; 100.00%), diagnosis at a young age (under 30; n = 3; 60.00%), and the coexistence of PSC (n = 1; 20.00%). The cancer prevalence rate was relatively low in our cohort despite the use of diverse biologics and immunosuppressive drugs. Faecal calprotectin was confirmed as a relevant tool for inflammation monitoring in this cohort. Conclusions: In our study cohort; we could show a low prevalence rate of malignancy in IBD. There were more malignancies in men and in patients who were diagnosed with IBD at later ages. It can be observed that the prevalence rate of cancer was relatively low despite the use of diverse biologics and immunosuppressive drugs; which is the major conclusion of this study. Additionally; the known correlation between elevated levels of faecal calprotectin and gut inflammation was confirmed through our statistical analysis. The use of calprotectin as a non-invasive screening tool for gut inflammation is advised. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Hepatic and Gastrointestinal Diseases in Germany)
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12 pages, 2633 KiB  
Article
The Potential Contribution of the IL-37/IL-18/IL-18BP/IL-18R Axis in the Pathogenesis of Sjögren’s Syndrome
by Dorian Parisis, Julie Sarrand and Muhammad Soyfoo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4877; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104877 - 19 May 2025
Viewed by 467
Abstract
The objective of this study was to explore the expression profile of the Interleukin (IL)-37/IL-18/IL-18BP/IL-18R axis in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). This study included 36 patients diagnosed with pSS, 13 patients presenting with sicca symptoms without confirmed pSS, and 14 healthy [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to explore the expression profile of the Interleukin (IL)-37/IL-18/IL-18BP/IL-18R axis in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). This study included 36 patients diagnosed with pSS, 13 patients presenting with sicca symptoms without confirmed pSS, and 14 healthy controls. Serum concentrations of IL-37, IL-18, IL-18BP, and IL-18R were measured using a sandwich ELISA. These levels were then correlated with relevant clinical and biological parameters. Furthermore, expression of the same cytokines was assessed in salivary gland biopsies via immunohistochemistry. No significant difference in serum IL-37 levels was observed among the three groups (p = 0.1695). However, serum levels of IL-18 and IL-18BP were significantly elevated in pSS patients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.0001), and these levels were strongly correlated. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significantly higher expression of IL-37 in both the excretory ducts and inflammatory infiltrates of salivary glands in pSS patients compared to sicca patients. No correlation was found between IL-37 expression and the histological severity of glandular infiltration as assessed by the Chisholm score. In addition, an enhanced expression of IL-18, IL-18BP, and IL-18Rα was observed in the salivary glands of pSS patients. These findings suggest the potential contribution of the IL-37/IL-18/IL-18BP/IL-18R signaling axis in the pathogenesis of Sjögren’s syndrome, particularly through its increased expression in salivary glands and correlation with disease-specific inflammatory markers. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of pSS immunopathology and suggest new avenues for biomarker development or therapeutic targeting. Full article
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22 pages, 3162 KiB  
Article
On the Possibility of Detecting Evaporation Ducts Through GNSS Reflectometry
by Fu Li, Yueqiang Sun, Xianyi Wang, Junming Xia, Feixiong Huang, Qifei Du, Weihua Bai, Zhuoyan Wang and Tongsheng Qiu
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(8), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17081420 - 16 Apr 2025
Viewed by 416
Abstract
An evaporation duct is a kind of atmospheric event with a refractive index exceeding the curvature of the Earth, which mostly exists on the ocean surface. Evaporation ducts have a great influence on radar, such as causing blind zones or achieving over-the-horizon detection. [...] Read more.
An evaporation duct is a kind of atmospheric event with a refractive index exceeding the curvature of the Earth, which mostly exists on the ocean surface. Evaporation ducts have a great influence on radar, such as causing blind zones or achieving over-the-horizon detection. However, there is a lack of effective technology for evaporation duct detection, especially for passive methods. Global Navigation Satellite System Reflectometry (GNSS-R) has demonstrated potential in various remote sensing applications. However, its utilization for evaporation duct retrieval has not yet been successfully achieved. This study investigates the impact of evaporation ducts on GNSS-R delay maps (DMs), demonstrating that they elevate the non-specular point region, with the extent of this rising zone correlating with the evaporation duct height (EDH). Through semi-physical simulation, the rise signal is modeled. During a four-day experiment, GPS-R DMs with obvious features of evaporation ducts were repeatedly observed. Additionally, this study attempts to find the maximum code delay in the experimental data. The EDH is retrieved using the maximum code delay and GPS elevation angle, exhibiting a 4 m error relative to the reference model under the condition that all effective waveforms are successfully received. The results demonstrate that the GNSS-R offers a promising passive method for evaporation duct detection. Full article
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15 pages, 664 KiB  
Review
Endoscopic Management of Recurrent Acute Pancreatitis
by Pier Alberto Testoni and Sabrina Testoni
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2150; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072150 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1452
Abstract
This review aims to summarize the role of endoscopic therapy in the management and outcomes of recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP). RAP is a clinical entity characterized by repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis in the setting of a normal gland or chronic pancreatitis (CP). [...] Read more.
This review aims to summarize the role of endoscopic therapy in the management and outcomes of recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP). RAP is a clinical entity characterized by repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis in the setting of a normal gland or chronic pancreatitis (CP). The aetiology of RAP can be identified in about 70% of cases; for the remaining cases, the term “idiopathic” (IRAP) is used. However, advanced diagnostic techniques may reduce the percentage of IRAP to 10%. Recognized causes of RAP are gallstone disease, including microlithiasis and biliary sludge, sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD), pancreatic ductal abnormalities (either congenital or acquired) interfering with pancreatic juice or bile outflow, genetic mutations, and alcohol consumption. SOD, as a clinical entity, was recently revised in the Rome IV consensus, which only recognized type 1 dysfunction as a true pathological condition, while type 2 SOD was defined as a suspected functional biliary sphincter disorder requiring the documentation of elevated basal sphincter pressure to be considered a true clinical entity and type 3 was abandoned as a diagnosis and considered functional pain. Endoscopic therapy by retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has been proven effective when a mechanical obstruction is found and can be removed. If an obstruction is not documented, few treatment options are available to prevent the recurrence of pancreatitis and progression toward chronic disease. In gallstone disease, endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EBS) is effective when a dilated common bile duct or biliary sludge/microlithiasis is documented. In type 1 SOD, biliary or dual sphincterotomy is generally successful, while in type 2 SOD, endotherapy should be reserved for patients with documented sphincter dysfunction. However, in recent years, doubts have been expressed about the real efficacy of sphincterotomy in this setting. When sphincter dysfunction is not confirmed, endotherapy should be discouraged. In pancreas divisum (PD), minor papilla sphincterotomy is effective when there is a dilated dorsal duct, and the success rate is the highest in RAP patients. In the presence of obstructive conditions of the main pancreatic duct, pancreatic endotherapy is generally successful if RAP depends on intraductal hypertension. However, despite the efficacy of endotherapy, progression toward CP has been shown in some of these patients, mainly in the presence of PD, very likely depending on underlying genetic mutations. In patients with IRAP, the real utility of endotherapy still remains unclear; this is because several unknown factors may play a role in the disease, and data on outcomes are few, frequently contradictory or uncontrolled, and, in general, limited to a short period of time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Endoscopic Management of Pancreaticobiliary Diseases)
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17 pages, 2755 KiB  
Article
Acylcarnitine and Free Fatty Acid Profiles in Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Associations with Fibrosis and Inflammation
by Magdalena Rogalska, Agnieszka Błachnio-Zabielska, Piotr Zabielski, Jacek Robert Janica, Kamila Roszczyc-Owsiejczuk, Karolina Pogodzińska, Aleksandra Andrzejuk, Andrzej Dąbrowski, Robert Flisiak and Paweł Rogalski
Nutrients 2025, 17(7), 1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17071097 - 21 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1033
Abstract
Background: Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease characterized by bile duct destruction, cholestasis, and fibrosis. Acylcarnitines are esters of carnitine responsible for the transport of long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for β-oxidation, playing a crucial role in energy metabolism [...] Read more.
Background: Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease characterized by bile duct destruction, cholestasis, and fibrosis. Acylcarnitines are esters of carnitine responsible for the transport of long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for β-oxidation, playing a crucial role in energy metabolism and lipid homeostasis. This study aimed to assess acylcarnitine and free fatty acid (FFA) profiles in PBC patients and their associations with fibrosis severity and inflammation. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 46 PBC patients and 32 healthy controls. Acylcarnitines and FFAs were quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and enzymatic assays, respectively. Liver stiffness was measured by point shear wave elastography (ElastPQ), and fibrosis was assessed using APRI and FIB-4 scores. Inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β) were also analyzed. Results: PBC patients had significantly higher levels of C18:1-acylcarnitine (median: 165.1 ng/mL) compared with the controls (152.4 ng/mL, p = 0.0036). Similarly, the FFA levels were markedly elevated in the PBC patients (median: 0.46 mM/L) compared with the controls (0.26 mM/L, p < 0.0001). Patients with higher liver stiffness (ElastPQ > 5.56 kPa) had significantly elevated C18:1-acylcarnitine (p = 0.0008) and FFA levels (p = 0.00098). Additionally, FFAs were significantly increased in patients with higher APRI and FIB-4 scores and were associated with elevated inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β) and liver injury markers. Multivariate regression analysis confirmed C18:1-acylcarnitine (OR = 1.031, 95% CI: 1.007–1.057, p = 0.013) and FFAs (OR = 2.25 per 0.1 mM/L increase, 95% CI: 1.20–4.22, p = 0.012) as independent predictors of fibrosis severity in PBC. Conclusions: C18:1-acylcarnitine and FFAs are significantly elevated in PBC and are strongly associated with fibrosis severity and inflammation. These findings suggest a link between lipid metabolism disturbances and PBC. Both metabolites may potentially serve as non-invasive biomarkers of fibrosis progression in PBC, warranting further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Lipids)
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12 pages, 4073 KiB  
Article
Characteristics of Observed Electromagnetic Wave Ducts in Tropical, Subtropical, and Middle Latitude Locations
by Sandra E. Yuter, McKenzie M. Sevier, Kevin D. Burris and Matthew A. Miller
Atmosphere 2025, 16(3), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16030336 - 17 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 386
Abstract
Where and at what altitudes electromagnetic wave ducts within the atmosphere are likely to occur is important for a variety of communication and military applications. We examined the modified refractivity profiles and wave duct characteristics derived from nearly 50,000 observed upper air soundings [...] Read more.
Where and at what altitudes electromagnetic wave ducts within the atmosphere are likely to occur is important for a variety of communication and military applications. We examined the modified refractivity profiles and wave duct characteristics derived from nearly 50,000 observed upper air soundings obtained over four years from seven tropical and subtropical islands, as well as middle latitude sites at four US coastal locations, three sites near the Great Lakes, and four US inland sites. Across all location types, elevated ducts were found to be more common than surface-based ducts, and the median duct thicknesses were ~100 m. There was a weak correlation between duct thickness and strength and, essentially, no correlation between the duct strength and duct base height. EM ducts more frequently occurred at the tropical and subtropical island locations (~60%) and middle latitude coastal locations (70%) as compared to the less than 30% of the time that occurred at the Great Lake and US inland sites. The tropical and subtropical island sites were more likely than the other location types to have ducts at altitudes higher than 2 km, which is above the boundary layer height. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Atmospheric Techniques, Instruments, and Modeling)
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13 pages, 214 KiB  
Article
Age and Tumor Stage Interplay in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Prognostic Factors, Mortality Trends, and Therapeutic Implications from a SEER-Based Analysis
by Ayrton Bangolo, Vignesh K. Nagesh, Hadrian Hoang-Vu Tran, Brooke Sens, Daniel Elias, Behzad Amoozgar, Chase Tomasino, Izage Kianifar Aguilar, Charlene Mansour, Elizabeth Gagen, Lili Zhang, Sarvarinder Gill, Nisrene Jebara, Emma Madigan, Christin Candela, Dohaa Amin, Peter Giunta, Shubhangi Singh, Aman Siddiqui, Auda Auda, Paul Peej, Timophyll Y. H. Fong, Simcha Weissman, Printhia Matshi Lihau and John Bukasa-Kakambaadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Diseases 2025, 13(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13020031 - 25 Jan 2025
Viewed by 2032
Abstract
Background: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), a malignancy originating from the epithelial cells of bile ducts, has shown a notable rise in its incidence over the years. It ranks as the second most frequent primary liver cancer after hepatocellular carcinoma. This study investigates how independent [...] Read more.
Background: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), a malignancy originating from the epithelial cells of bile ducts, has shown a notable rise in its incidence over the years. It ranks as the second most frequent primary liver cancer after hepatocellular carcinoma. This study investigates how independent prognostic factors, specifically, age and tumor stage, interact to impact mortality in ICC patients. Furthermore, it examines the clinical features, survival rates, and prognostic indicators of ICC cases diagnosed between 2010 and 2017. Methods: Using data from 5083 patients obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, this study evaluated demographic and clinical factors alongside overall mortality (OM) and cancer-specific mortality (CSM). Variables achieving a p-value below 0.1 in univariate Cox regression analysis were incorporated into multivariate Cox regression models to identify independent prognostic factors. Hazard ratios (HRs) exceeding 1 were interpreted as markers of poor prognosis. Additionally, this study explored the interaction between age and tumor stage in shaping survival outcomes. Results: The multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis indicated higher OM in males (HR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.12–1.26, p < 0.01) and residents of metropolitan counties with populations exceeding 250,000 (HR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01–1.31, p < 0.05). Conversely, lower OM was observed in individuals aged 40–59 years (HR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.38–0.89, p < 0.05), those aged 60–79 years (HR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.43–0.98, p < 0.05), and patients who received radiation therapy (HR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.72–0.85, p < 0.01), chemotherapy (HR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.51–0.58, p < 0.01), or surgery (HR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.26–0.31, p < 0.01). For CSM, males exhibited higher risks (HR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.10–1.25, p < 0.01), as did individuals in metropolitan counties with populations over 250,000 (HR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.03–1.35, p < 0.05). Reduced CSM was observed in patients aged 40–59 years (HR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.34–0.79, p < 0.01), those aged 60–79 years (HR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.38–0.86, p < 0.01), and those undergoing radiation therapy (HR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.70–0.83, p < 0.01), chemotherapy (HR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.51–0.59, p < 0.01), or surgery (HR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.25–0.30, p < 0.01). When examining the interaction between age and tumor stage, higher OM was observed in patients aged 40–59 with tumors involving lymph nodes (HR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.14–2.67, p < 0.05). Similarly, CSM was elevated in patients aged 40–59 with lymph node involvement alone (HR = 2.60, 95% CI: 1.26–5.36, p < 0.05) or with direct spread (HR = 2.81, 95% CI: 1.04–7.61, p < 0.05). Among those aged 60–79, higher CSM was noted in cases with lymph node involvement only (HR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.11–4.50, p < 0.05) or lymph node involvement accompanied by direct extension (HR = 2.93, 95% CI: 1.10–7.82, p < 0.05). Conclusions: This retrospective analysis, utilizing data from the SEER database, provides new insights into mortality patterns in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). This study identifies a significant interplay between two key prognostic factors, emphasizing their collective role in influencing mortality outcomes. Despite the predominance of advanced-stage diagnoses, our analysis underscores the substantial survival benefits associated with treatment interventions, with surgical procedures demonstrating the most pronounced impact. These findings highlight the importance of recognizing patients who may benefit from timely and intensive therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, the results underscore the need for future prospective randomized studies to deepen our understanding of these interactions in ICC, particularly as advancements in precision oncology continue to refine patient care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology)
24 pages, 5694 KiB  
Article
Investigating the Temporal and Spatial Characteristics of Lower Atmospheric Ducts in the Arctic via Long-Term Numerical Simulations
by Jinyue Wang, Xiaofeng Zhao, Jing Zou, Pinglv Yang, Bo Wang, Shuai Yang, Zhijin Qiu, Zhiqian Li, Tong Hu and Miaomiao Song
Atmosphere 2025, 16(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16010011 - 26 Dec 2024
Viewed by 739
Abstract
In this study, a diagnostic model for lower atmospheric ducts was developed using the polar weather research and forecasting model. A five-year simulation was then conducted across the entire Arctic region to investigate the temporal and spatial characteristics of lower atmospheric ducts. The [...] Read more.
In this study, a diagnostic model for lower atmospheric ducts was developed using the polar weather research and forecasting model. A five-year simulation was then conducted across the entire Arctic region to investigate the temporal and spatial characteristics of lower atmospheric ducts. The model demonstrated excellent performance in simulating modified atmospheric refractivity, with root mean square errors ranging from 0 M to 5 M. The five-year simulation results revealed that duct occurrence rates across the Arctic region were all below 1% and exhibited a negative relationship with latitude. Regarding the difference between surface ducts and elevated ducts, a higher frequency of surface ducts was detected in the Arctic region. The height and thickness of surface ducts were generally lower than those of elevated ducts, but the strength of surface ducts was slightly greater. Regionally, surface ducts mainly occurred in the land areas surrounding the Arctic Ocean, while more elevated ducts were found in the North Atlantic Sea area. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between the polar vortex indices and the characteristics of ducts, particularly for surface ducts. The ducts in Greenland were notably influenced by polar vortex activity, whereas the ducts in other regions, such as the Norwegian Sea and Kara Sea, were less affected. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Understanding Extreme Weather Events in the Anthropocene)
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13 pages, 445 KiB  
Review
Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, and Risk Factors of Malignant Tumors in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
by Dominika Blachut, Brygida Przywara-Chowaniec and Andrzej Tomasik
Rheumato 2024, 4(4), 209-221; https://doi.org/10.3390/rheumato4040017 - 23 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1463
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease with a complex pathogenesis, primarily affecting women. SLE is associated with the presence of autoantibodies, chronic inflammation, and multi-organ dysfunction. Increasing evidence suggests that SLE is linked to a higher risk of malignancies, [...] Read more.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease with a complex pathogenesis, primarily affecting women. SLE is associated with the presence of autoantibodies, chronic inflammation, and multi-organ dysfunction. Increasing evidence suggests that SLE is linked to a higher risk of malignancies, compared to the general population, though the mechanism behind this phenomenon remains unclear. Malignant tumors are the fourth most common cause of death in SLE patients. SLE is associated with an elevated risk of hematological cancers, as well as cancers of the lungs, thyroid, liver, and bile ducts. The aim of this paper is to review the latest literature on the pathogenesis, epidemiology, and risk factors for malignancies in SLE patients. The mechanisms of oncogenesis in SLE are still not fully understood, and the pathophysiology includes such risk factors as chronic inflammation, immune disorders, therapies used, overlap syndromes of connective tissue diseases, viral infections, and traditional cancer risk factors. Evaluating these factors and understanding the process of oncogenesis are crucial for prevention. Systemic lupus erythematosus may be an independent risk factor for the development of malignancies. It is important to raise awareness among SLE patients about the increased risk of malignancies. Further research is needed to establish guidelines for prevention, including screening recommendations. Full article
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14 pages, 1552 KiB  
Article
PCOS Influences the Expression of AMHRII in the Endometrium of AEH During the Reproductive Age
by Yingsha Yao, Shulan Zhu and Xiaoming Zhu
Diagnostics 2024, 14(24), 2872; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14242872 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 893
Abstract
Background: Endometrial proliferative lesions (EPLs) encompass endometrial hyperplasia (EH) and endometrial carcinoma (EC). Atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) is associated with an elevated risk of progression to EC. Patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) exhibit higher serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and a [...] Read more.
Background: Endometrial proliferative lesions (EPLs) encompass endometrial hyperplasia (EH) and endometrial carcinoma (EC). Atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) is associated with an elevated risk of progression to EC. Patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) exhibit higher serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and a correspondingly increased incidence of EPLs. AMH has the capacity to inhibit the cell proliferation of EPLs derived from Müllerian duct tissue through the AMH-AMH receptor (AMHR) signaling pathway. Methods: Pairs of samples matched by preference scores were randomly selected. Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the expression levels of AMHR type II (AMHR2) in endometrial tissue. A comparative analysis was performed between tissues from individuals with PCOS and those without, as well as between a normal endometrium and endometrial tissue from individuals with EPLs. This study aimed to elucidate differences in AMHR2 expression among these tissue types. By focusing on AMHR2 expression, the impact of the PCOS-related background on the endometrial AMH-AMHR cascade signaling pathway was initially investigated. Results: The AMHR2 protein was expressed in the endometrium of both the PCOS group and the non-PCOS group during the reproductive age (20–39 years). The expression of the AMHR2 protein in the AEH endometrium of PCOS patients did not differ significantly from that in the normal endometrium of PCOS patients; however, it was significantly higher than in the AEH endometrium of non-PCOS patients (p = 0.011). Conversely, the expression of the AMHR2 protein in the AEH endometrium of non-PCOS patients was significantly lower than that in the normal endometrium of non-PCOS patients (p = 0.021). Notably, there was no significant difference in AMHR2 protein expression in a normal endometrium between PCOS and non-PCOS patients. Conclusions: The involvement of the endometrial AMH-AMHR cascade signaling pathway and its biological effects in the pathogenesis of AEH are evident. The pathophysiological conditions associated with PCOS, such as elevated serum AMH levels and other pathological states, may directly or indirectly influence the AMH-AMHR cascade signaling pathway in the endometrium. This influence could contribute to the progression of AEH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
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11 pages, 4421 KiB  
Article
Pancreaticobiliary Reflux with Normal and Relatively Long Common Channels Causing Cholelithiasis and Acute Pancreatitis in Children
by Katsunori Kouchi, Ayako Takenouchi, Aki Matsuoka, Hiroko Yoshizawa and Chikako Nakata
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(24), 7650; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13247650 - 16 Dec 2024
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Abstract
Background and Aims: Pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBMJ) has a long common channel (CC) that causes pancreaticobiliary reflux (PBR), which has been implicated in gallstones, cholangiocarcinoma, and pancreatitis. By contrast, PBR has occurred in cases with normal and longer CCs than normal but shorter than [...] Read more.
Background and Aims: Pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBMJ) has a long common channel (CC) that causes pancreaticobiliary reflux (PBR), which has been implicated in gallstones, cholangiocarcinoma, and pancreatitis. By contrast, PBR has occurred in cases with normal and longer CCs than normal but shorter than PBMJ. This pathophysiology has been primarily reported in adults and rarely in children. We sometimes observe this pathophysiology in children with pancreatitis and cholelithiasis. Herein, we report the clinical figures on the diagnosis of children with PBR in normal and relatively long CCs. Patients and Methods: This study included seven children who complained of refractory pancreatitis and cholelithiasis diagnosed with PBR in normal and relatively long CCs at our institution from August 2018 to September 2024. We measured the lengths of their CCs and sphincter of Oddi muscles via endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and cholangiography. In addition, amylase and lipase levels in bile juice were measured. Results: All seven children demonstrated elevated amylase and lipase levels in bile juice obtained from gallbladder drainage and/or the common bile duct. ERCP and cholangiography indicated 2.2–5.5-mm lengths of CCs in their cases, which are normal lengths in two cases and relatively longer (0.3–1.1 mm: mean 0.6 mm) than the normal upper limit of CC in children in five cases, with their CCs shorter than the sphincters of Oddi. All children underwent extrahepatic bile duct resection and bilio–jejunal anastomosis, demonstrating no clinical symptom recurrence postoperatively. Conclusions: Some children with cholelithiasis and pancreatitis exhibit normal and relatively long CCs, causing PBR and inducing gastrointestinal diseases. Careful investigation by ERCP and cholangiography focused on the CC length, and pancreatic enzyme level assessments in bile juice are useful for diagnosing PBR in children with cholelithiasis and refractory pancreatitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
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15 pages, 3764 KiB  
Article
Apoptosis-Inducing and Proliferation-Inhibiting Effects of Doramectin on Mz-ChA-1 Human Cholangiocarcinoma Cells
by Yunfang Zhang, Wei Wu, Yan Shi, Yuehong Huang, Ting Dai, Lina Ke, Lizhu Chen, Mingliang Chen and Qin Wang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(24), 13440; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252413440 - 15 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1154
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma is a malignant tumor that emerges in the intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile ducts. Doramectin (DOR), a third-generation derivative of avermectins (AVMs), is renowned for its low toxicity and high efficiency. However, no research has hitherto focused on the anti-cholangiocarcinoma effects of these [...] Read more.
Cholangiocarcinoma is a malignant tumor that emerges in the intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile ducts. Doramectin (DOR), a third-generation derivative of avermectins (AVMs), is renowned for its low toxicity and high efficiency. However, no research has hitherto focused on the anti-cholangiocarcinoma effects of these drugs. In this study, we undertook a preliminary exploration of the mechanism through which DOR inhibits the viability of human cholangiocarcinoma cells (Mz-ChA-1) via transcriptome analysis and molecular validation at the cellular level. The results indicated that DOR could suppress the growth and proliferation of Mz-ChA-1 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, it significantly diminished their migration and invasion abilities. Cell cycle analysis disclosed arrest in the G1 phase, accompanied by an increase in p21 expression and a decrease in the levels of the cyclin E1 and CDK2 proteins. Additionally, DOR induced apoptosis via the ROS-triggered mitochondrial pathway. This was attested by an elevation in the BAX/BCL-2 ratio, the activation of caspase 3/7 and the cleavage of PARP1. These mechanistic insights underscore DOR’s potential as a therapeutic agent against cholangiocarcinoma Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Molecular Pathways in Oncology, 3rd Edition)
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