Search Results (96)

Background: Enzymes secreted by the digestive glands are excreted from the body with urine, sweat and feces, and they are also removed from the blood due to their participation in the enzymatic provision of the secretion entering the gastrointestinal tract. Objective: The aim of this work was to analyze the activity of pepsinogen, amylase and lipase in the coprofiltrate of pregnant women in each trimester of pregnancy and in the postpartum period, taking into account the timing and type of delivery (term, premature, late delivery or cesarean section). Methods: Data from studies of non-pregnant (n = 45) and pregnant (n = 193) women were analyzed. The materials for preparation coprofiltrate were collected during delivery. Pepsinogen activity was determined by proteolytic activity at pH = 1.5–2.0 using the tyrosine spectrophotometric method, while amylase activity was determined by the amyloclastic method of Karavey, and lipolytic activity was determined by a unified kinetic method using olive oil as a substrate. Outcomes: A small amount of pepsinogen was excreted in the coprofiltrate, and while the level of its excretion increased after childbirth, it remained below the control values. At the same time, an increase in the amylolytic activity of the coprofiltrate was observed in all groups of pregnant women examined from the first to the third trimester of pregnancy. In pregnant women, multidirectional changes in lipase activity were observed depending on the timing and type of delivery. Conclusions: At the end of pregnancy, amylolytic activity increased in all women, and pepsinase activity decreased compared to the indicators of non-pregnant women. No reliable differences were found in the lipolytic activity of the coprofiltrate in pregnant women at the end of pregnancy and the indicators of non-pregnant women. Full article

The study at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice highlights critical interactions between indoor air quality, visitor dynamics, and microclimatic conditions, offering insights into preventive conservation of modern artworks. By analyzing pollutants such as ammonia, formaldehyde, and organic acids, alongside visitor density and environmental data, the research identified key patterns and risks. Through three seasonal monitoring campaigns, the concentrations of SO₂ (sulphur dioxide), NO (nitric oxide), NO₂ (nitrogen dioxide), NO_x (nitrogen oxides), HONO (nitrous acid), HNO₃ (nitric acid), O₃ (ozone), NH₃ (ammonia), CH₃COOH (acetic acid), HCOOH (formic acid), and HCHO (formaldehyde) were determined using passive samplers, as well as temperature and relative humidity data loggers. In addition, two specific short-term monitoring campaigns focused on NH₃ were performed to evaluate the influence of visitor presence on indoor concentrations of the above compounds and environmental parameters. NH₃ and HCHO concentrations spiked during high visitor occupancy, with NH₃ levels doubling in crowded periods. Short-term NH₃ campaigns confirmed a direct correlation between visitor numbers and the above indoor concentrations, likely due to human emissions (e.g., sweat, breath) and off-gassing from materials. The indoor/outdoor ratios indicated that several pollutants originated from indoor sources, with ammonia and acetic acid showing the highest indoor concentrations. By measuring the number of visitors and microclimate parameters (temperature and humidity) every 3 s, we were able to precisely estimate the causality and the temporal shift between these quantities, both at small time scale (a few minute delay between peaks) and at medium time scale (daily average conditions due to the continuous inflow and outflow of visitors). Full article

Background: One of the most common genetic variants among individuals with cystic fibrosis screen-positive inconclusive diagnosis (CFSPID) is 5T;12TG. Classified as having “varying clinical consequences” (VVCC), it may produce a wide spectrum of CF phenotypes when combined in trans with a pathogenic variant on the other CFTR allele, ranging from asymptomatic cases to CFTR-related disorders (CFTR-RD) or classical cystic fibrosis (CF). The 5T;12TG variant is currently eligible for modulator treatment in the United States. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of CFSPID children born between July 2009 and June 2023 in the Community of Madrid (Spain) who carried at least one 5T;12TG variant in trans with another CFTR variant. Data collected included trends in sweat chloride (SC) values, respiratory and digestive symptoms, lung function by spirometry, microbiological findings in nasopharyngeal aspirates, anthropometric data, and fecal elastase levels. Results: Twenty-one children (52.3% females; median age: 4.66 years [IQR 3.6–6.9]) were included. Eighteen had 5T;12TG in trans with a CF-causing variant (CFc), two had another VVCC variant, and one had a variant of unknown significance (VUS). After a median follow-up of 3.45 years [IQR 1.4–4.3], all the children remained asymptomatic. However, SC values rose to intermediate levels in nine (42.8%) of the children. No isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were identified. Lung function and pancreatic markers remained normal. Conclusions: This is the first Spanish cohort of children with CFSPID and the 5T;12TG allele. Although clinical symptoms did not manifest during childhood, the SC value increased to intermediate values in 42.8% of the cohort, so these may require long-term follow-up to observe conversions to CFTR-RD or CF. The potential initiation of modulator therapy based solely on SC levels or emerging symptoms warrants careful consideration. Full article

Sweat analysis represents an emerging non-invasive approach for health monitoring, yet its practical application is hindered by challenges such as insufficient natural sweat secretion and inefficient collection. To overcome these limitations, this study develops a hydrogel sheet composed of agarose and glycerol, which efficiently facilitates resting sweat collection without external stimulation when integrated into the microfluidic channels of a sweat-sensing patch. The microfluidic sweat-sensing patch, fabricated with laser-cut technology, features a sandwich structure that enables the measurement of sweat rate and chloride ion concentration while minimizing interference from electrochemical reactions. Additionally, a colorimetric module utilizing glucose oxidase and peroxidase is also integrated into the platform for cost-effective and efficient glucose detection through a color change that can be quantified via RGB analysis. The hydrogel interface, characterized by its optimal thickness and water content, exhibits superior absorption capability for efficient sweat collection and retention, with a negligible effect on the dilution of sweat components. This hydrogel-interfaced microfluidic platform demonstrates high efficiency in sweat collection and multi-biomarker analysis, offering a non-invasive, real-time solution for health monitoring. Its low-cost and wearable design highlights its potential for broad applications in personalized healthcare. Full article

Objectives: This study explored the impact of physical activity (PA) participation on the lifestyle habits and school life of Korean elementary school students. Methods: We collected survey data from 28,514 elementary school students participating in the 2023 Student Health Examination conducted by the Korea Ministry of Education. PA participation was the independent variable, defined as whether elementary school students participate in exercise that makes them out of breath or sweat more than three times a week. The variables related to lifestyle habits included breakfast intake, amount of sleep, TV viewing, gaming/Internet use, thoughts about running away from home, perceived body image, and body mass index. The variables for school life included experiences of being bullied, the need for counseling regarding school life problems, and the need for counseling for distress. The collected data were analyzed using frequency analysis, chi-squared tests, and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: PA was significantly associated with regular breakfast intake, sufficient sleep, limited television viewing, reduced gaming/Internet use, and a positive perception of body image. Specifically, regarding breakfast intake, the average odds ratio (OR) was 1.160 for always having it. Regarding the amount of sleep, the average OR was 0.836 for less than 6 h, 0.692 for 6–7 h, and 0.767 for 7–8 h. Regarding TV viewing, the average OR was 0.831 for yes. For gaming, the average OR was 0.770 for yes. Regarding perceived body image, the average OR was 1.429 for slightly thin, 1.487 for normal, and 1.400 for slightly fat. Conclusions: These results suggest that children’s PA facilitates the formation of good lifestyle habits; therefore, it should be actively encouraged in children. Full article

Older people are the most vulnerable to extreme heat and cold events, and understanding their thermal comfort requirements is an important component for the design of healthy buildings. There are, however, very few predictive thermal comfort models for older populations. The aim of this paper was to validate the newly developed MPMV model for older people using thermal sensation data collected in climatic chambers and field studies in urban and rural buildings under various climate zones. Besides the six customary physical parameters governing thermal perception, the model accounts for additional factors covering heat retrieval from or heat addition to the body core and adjustment constants for regulatory sweating rate and non-shivering thermogenesis, which are important for the thermal adaptation of people in real settings. The model predictions show good agreement with measurement in climate chambers, with an overall RMSE = 0.44. Similarly, the model reproduces field measurement with a high degree of accuracy in 71% of the studies, with RMSE = 0.52. The major differences were observed in urban and rural residences during the winter of cold climates and summer of hot climates. These discrepancies could be attributed to unreported factors, such as the transient effects, misestimation of personal input data, and seasonal adaptation of residents. Full article

Electrodermal activity (EDA) reflects the variation in the electrical conductance of the skin in response to sweat secretion, constituting a non-invasive measure of the sympathetic nervous system. This system intervenes in reactions to stress and is strongly activated in emotional states. In most cases, EDA signals are collected from the hand (fingers or palms), which is not an ideal location for a sensor when the participant has to use their hands during tasks or activities. This study aims to explore alternative locations for retrieving EDA signals (e.g., the chest, back, and forehead). EDA signals from 25 healthy participants were collected using a protocol involving different physical stimuli that have been reported to induce an electrodermal response. The features extracted included the Skin Conductance Response (SCR) height, SCR amplitude, and peak prominence. An analysis of these features and the analysis of the correlation between the standard position with the different locations suggested that the chest, while a possible alternative for EDA signal collection, presents some weak results, and further evaluation of this site is needed. Additionally, the forehead should be excluded as an alternative site, at least in short-term measurements. Full article

Background/Objectives: Crisponi/cold-induced sweating syndrome 1 (CISS1/CISS, MIM#272430) is a genetic disorder due to biallelic variants in CRFL1 (MIM*604237). The related phenotype is mainly characterized by abnormal thermoregulation and sweating, facial muscle contractions in response to tactile and crying-inducing stimuli at an early age, skeletal anomalies (camptodactyly of the hands, scoliosis), and craniofacial dysmorphisms, comprising full cheeks, micrognathia, high and narrow palate, low-set ears, and a depressed nasal bridge. The condition is associated with high lethality during the neonatal period and can benefit from timely symptomatic therapy. Methods: We collected frontal images of all patients with CISS1/CISS published to date, which were analyzed with Face2Gene (F2G), a machine-learning technology for the facial diagnosis of syndromic phenotypes. In total, 75 portraits were subdivided into three cohorts, based on age (Cohort 1 and 2) and the presence of the typical facial trismus (Cohort 3). These portraits were uploaded to F2G to test their suitability for facial analysis and to verify the capacity of the AI tool to correctly recognize the syndrome based on the facial features only. The photos which passed this phase (62 images) were fed to three different AI algorithms—DeepGestalt, Facial D-Score, and GestaltMatcher. Results: The DeepGestalt algorithm results, including the correct diagnosis using a frontal portrait, suggested a similar facial phenotype in the first two cohorts. Cohort 3 seemed to be highly differentiable. The results were expressed in terms of the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and p Value. The Facial D-Score values indicated the presence of a consistent degree of dysmorphic signs in the three cohorts, which was also confirmed by the GestaltMatcher algorithm. Interestingly, the latter allowed us to identify overlapping genetic disorders. Conclusions: This is the first AI-powered image analysis in defining the craniofacial contour of CISS1/CISS and in determining the feasibility of training the tool used in its clinical recognition. The obtained results showed that the use of F2G can reveal valid support in the diagnostic process of CISS1/CISS, especially in more severe phenotypes, manifesting with facial contractions and potentially lethal consequences. Full article

Monitoring of immune factors, including interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), holds great importance for understanding immune responses and disease diagnosis. Wearable sensors enable continuous and non-invasive detection of immune markers in sweat, drawing significant attention to their potential in real-time health monitoring and personalized medicine. Among these, electrochemical sensors are particularly advantageous, due to their excellent signal responsiveness, cost-effectiveness, miniaturization, and broad applicability, making them ideal for constructing wearable sweat sensors. In this study, we present a flexible and sensitive wearable platform for the detection of IFN-γ, utilizing a DNA hydrogel with favorable loading performance and sample collection capability, and the application of mobile software achieves immediate data analysis and processing. This platform integrates three-dimensional DNA hydrogel functionalized with IFN-γ-specific aptamers for precise target recognition and efficient sweat collection. Signal amplification is achieved through target-triggered catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA), with DNA hairpins remarkably enhancing sensitivity. Ferrocene-labeled reporting strands immobilized on a screen-printed carbon electrode are displayed via CHA-mediated strand displacement, leading to a measurable reduction in electrical signals. These changes are transmitted to a custom-developed mobile application via a portable electrochemical workstation for real-time data analysis and recording. This wearable sensor platform combines the specificity of DNA aptamers, advanced signal amplification, and the convenience of mobile data processing. It offers a high-sensitivity approach to detecting low-abundance targets in sweat, paving the way for new applications in point-of-care diagnostics and wearable health monitoring. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hidrocystomas, eccrine and apocrine, are rare cystic lesions that form benign tumors of the sweat glands. This study aimed to describe the clinical features of hidrocystomas and evaluate the role of non-invasive imaging techniques, including dermoscopy, Line-field Confocal Optical Coherence Tomography (LC-OCT), Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM), and Ultra-High-Frequency Ultrasound (UHFUS), in their diagnosis. Methods: In total, seven cases of hidrocystomas were collected from the Dermatologic Clinic of the University of Siena, Italy. Predefined dermoscopic, LC-OCT, RCM, and UHFUS features were retrospectively described. Results: Overall, hidrocystomas were located on the face, mainly presenting as blue/purple-bluish translucent papules (71%). Dermoscopic examination revealed a homogeneous purple-bluish color (71%), white pale halo (71%), and shiny globules at the periphery (57%). LC-OCT identified a hyporeflective cupoliform round structure in the dermis with a bright and thick contour, while UHFUS showed a round structure in the dermis filled with hypoechoic content. Conclusions: Non-invasive imaging techniques could significantly enhance the diagnostic accuracy of hidrocystomas, aid in differentiation from other lesions, and minimize unnecessary biopsies. Full article

Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels are emerging as highly versatile materials for cost-effective biosensors, capable of sensitive chemical and biological detection. These hydrogels, functionalized with specific groups, exhibit sensitivity modulated by factors such as temperature, pH, and analyte concentration, allowing for a broad spectrum of applications. This study presents a patent-centered overview of recent advancements in hyaluronic acid hydrogel biosensors from 2003 to 2023. A total of 50 patent documents—including 41 patent applications and 9 granted patents—reveal a growing interest, primarily driven by United States-based institutions, which account for approximately 54% of all filings. This trend reflects the strong collaboration between universities, industry, and foundations in pushing this technology forward. Most patented technologies focus on biosensors for in vivo blood analysis, measuring critical parameters such as gas concentration and pH, with particular emphasis on glucose monitoring via tissue impedance using enzyme-immobilized oxidase electrodes. Additionally, the 9 granted patents collectively showcase key innovations, highlighting applications from continuous glucose monitors to implantable vascular devices and sweat analyte detection systems. These patents underscore the adaptability and biocompatibility of hyaluronic acid hydrogels, reinforcing their role in enhancing biosensor performance for real-time health monitoring. In summary, this overview highlights the importance of patent analysis in tracking and directing research and development, helping to clarify the field’s evolution and identify innovation gaps for hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel biosensors. Full article

With the continuous advancement of contemporary medical technology, an increasing number of individuals are inclined towards self-monitoring their physiological health information, specifically focusing on monitoring blood glucose levels. However, as an emerging flexible sensing technique, continuous and non-invasive monitoring of glucose in sweat offers a promising alternative to conventional invasive blood tests for measuring blood glucose levels, reducing the risk of infection associated with blood testing. In this study, we fabricated a flexible and wearable electrochemical enzyme sensor based on a two-dimensional Ti₃C₂T_x MXene nanosheets and coral-like polyaniline (PANI) binary nanocomposite (denoted as Ti₃C₂T_x/PANI) for continuous, non-invasive, real-time monitoring of sweat glucose. The exceptional conductivity of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene nanosheets, in conjunction with the mutual doping effect facilitated by coral-like PANI, significantly enhances electrical conductivity and specific surface areas of Ti₃C₂T_x/PANI. Consequently, the fabricated sensor exhibits remarkable sensitivity (25.16 μA·mM⁻¹·cm⁻²), a low detection limit of glucose (26 μM), and an extensive detection range (0.05 mM ~ 1.0 mM) in sweat. Due to the dense coral-like structure of Ti₃C₂T_x/PANI binary nanocomposite, a larger effective area is obtained to offer more active sites for enzyme immobilization and enhancing enzymatic catalytic activity. Moreover, the sensor demonstrates exceptional mechanical performance, enabling a 60° bend in practical applications, thus satisfying the rigorous demands of human sweat detection applications. The results obtained from continuous 60 min in vitro monitoring of sweat glucose levels demonstrate a robust correlation with the data of blood glucose levels collected by a commercial glucose meter. Furthermore, the fabricated Ti₃C₂T_x/PANI/GOx sensor demonstrated agreement with HPLC findings regarding the actual concentration of added glucose. This study presents an efficient and practical approach for the development of a highly reliable MXene glucose biosensor, enabling stable and long-term monitoring of glucose levels in human sweat. Full article

Introduction: Athletic performance is greatly impacted by hydration status. The combination of several techniques is recommended to accurately measure water losses and gains. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the validity of bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) as a tool for measuring hydration status in endurance and strength athletes. Methods: A total of 148 athletes were evaluated on one experimental day, pre- and post-training. Urine samples were collected and analyzed for color and specific gravity. Body weight changes were measured, sweat rate was calculated, and BIVA was performed. Reference ellipses were plotted using data of 200 healthy non-athletic individuals. Results: A moderate significant agreement was noted between raw bioelectrical values and urine specific gravity (USG) (p > 0.05). The sensitivity of classic BIVA in detecting minor changes in hydration status is confirmed both graphically and statistically. R/h and Z statistically significantly decreased post-training. Male athletes exhibited a specific BIA vector distribution compared to the reference population and were slightly more hydrated than female athletes. Conclusions: BIVA validation may be an essential step to allow its use among university students to assess dehydration in a non-invasive, practical, and inexpensive way. Full article

Wearable sensors for sweat trace metal monitoring have the challenges of effective sweat collection and the real-time recording of detection signals. The existing detection technologies are implemented by generating enough sweat through exercise, which makes detecting trace metals in sweat cumbersome. Generally, it takes around 20 min to obtain enough sweat, resulting in dallied and prolonged detection signals that cannot reflect the endogenous fluctuations of the body. To solve these problems, we prepared a multifunctional hydrogel as an electrolyte and combined it with a flexible patch electrode to realize real-time monitoring of sweat Zn²⁺. Such hydrogel has magnetic and porous properties, and the porous structure of hydrogel enables a fast absorption of sweat, and the magnetic property of the addition of fabricated Fe₃O₄ NPs not only improves the conductivity but also ensures the adjustable internal structures of the hydrogel. Such a sensing platform for sweat Zn²⁺ monitoring shows a satisfied linear relationship in the concentration range of 0.16–16 µg/mL via differential pulsed anodic striping voltammetry (DPASV) and successfully detects the sweat Zn²⁺ of four volunteers during exercise and resting, displaying a promising path for commercial application. Full article

Feeding difficulties are constantly present in patients with Crisponi/cold-induced sweating syndrome type 1 (CS/CISS1). The aim of our study was to describe their prevalence and evolution from birth to adult age. We performed an observational study at the Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Rome. Fourteen patients were included in this study (six M; mean age: 18 years; SD: 10.62 years; median age: 15 years; age range: 6–44 years); six were adults (43%). Data on oral motor abilities from birth were collected. Meal duration, presence of swallowing reflex, dysphagia symptoms, difficulty chewing, and drooling management were assessed. At birth, all patients needed enteral feeding. Introduction of solid food was postponed beyond the age of 18 months in 43% of patients. During childhood and adolescence, mealtime was characterized by increased duration (43%) accompanied by fatigue during chewing (43%), food spillage from the nasal cavities (21%), sialorrhea (86%), and poor/reduced appetite (57%). A mature rotatory chewing skill was never achieved. This report expands the phenotype description of CS/CISS1 and also improves the overall management and prevention of complications in this ultra-rare disease. Full article