The artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the science and engineering of creating intelligent machines for imitating and expanding human intelligence. Given the ongoing evolution of the multidisciplinary integration trend in modern medicine, numerous studies have investigated the power of AI to address orthopaedic-specific problems. One particular area of investigation focuses on the shoulder pathology, which is a range of disorders or abnormalities of shoulder joint, causing pain, inflammation, stiffness, weakness, and reduced range of motion. There has not yet been a comprehensive review of the recent advancements in this field. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to evaluate the current AI applications in the shoulder pathology. This review mainly summarizes several crucial stages of the clinical practice, including predictive models and prognosis, diagnosis, treatment, and physical therapy. In addition, the challenges and future development of AI are also discussed.

Brain metastases are highly evolved manifestations of breast cancer arising in a unique microenvironment, giving them exceptional adaptability in the face of new extrinsic pressures. The incidence is rising in line with population ageing, and use of newer therapies that stabilise metastatic disease burden with variable efficacy throughout the body. Historically, there has been a widely held view that brain metastases do not respond to circulating therapeutics because the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) restricts their uptake. However, emerging data are beginning to paint a far more complex picture where the brain acts as a sanctuary for dormant, subclinical proliferations that are initially protected by the BBB, but then exposed to dynamic selection pressures as tumours mature and vascular permeability increases. Here, we review key experimental approaches and landmark studies that have charted the genomic landscape of breast cancer brain metastases. These findings are contextualised with the factors impacting on clonal outgrowth in the brain: intrinsic breast tumour cell capabilities required for brain metastatic fitness, and the neural niche, which is initially hostile to invading cells but then engineered into a tumour-support vehicle by the successful minority. We also discuss how late detection, abnormal vascular perfusion and interstitial fluid dynamics underpin the recalcitrant clinical behaviour of brain metastases, and outline active clinical trials in the context of precision management.

This review introduces the development and applications of novel plant growth promotor ‘SOMRE’ and animal growth promoter ‘VED’ to increase food production, stop world hunger, greening deserts, stop global warming, and restore the green ‘Earth’. A concrete method to use ‘SOMRE’ and ‘VED’ as ‘the earth medicine’ is proposed. Part 1 describes ‘SOMRE’ helping the growth of vegetables, grains, flowers, herbs, endangered and native plants in the Gobi Desert. It increased plant-based food and achieved greening a part of the Gobi Desert. Part 2 explains ‘VED’, increasing the production of cashmere wool in goats, dramatically improving their reproductivity and their meat production. In humans, it demonstrated to eliminate the itchiness, skin spots, and acne scars, improved wound healing and ED, etc. It has the potential to be used as a treatment for dementia and osteoporosis. Part 3 is the experimental part. Following the described procedures, readers can get hold of ‘SOMRE’, ‘VED’ and related compounds which are a treasure trove of pharmacologically active substances and new ideas.

Psoriasis is a lifelong, systemic, immune mediated inflammatory skin condition, affecting 1-3% of the world’s population, with an impact on quality of life similar to diseases like cancer or diabetes. Genetics are the single largest risk factor in psoriasis, with GWAS studies showing that many psoriasis risk genes lie along the IL23/Th17 axis. Potential psoriasis risk genes determined through GWAS can be annotated and characterised using functional genomics, allowing the identification of novel drug targets and the repurposing of existing drugs. The pathogenesis of psoriasis is complex and focusing on the IL23/Th17 axis can provide insight into key cell types, cytokines and intracellular signaling pathways involved. Examination of currently available biological treatments, time to relapse post drug withdrawal and rates of drug primary/secondary drug failure show the need for greater understanding of the underlying genetic mechanisms of psoriasis and how they can impact treatment. This could allow for patient stratification towards the treatment most likely reduce dis-ease burden for the longest period possible.

Low fertility is a critical social problem worldwide, and infertility has a prevalence of 15%. This cross-sectional study aimed to understand the factors affecting the usage and satisfaction of Korean medicine (KM) in subfertile women. An online survey was conducted from November 3 to November 8, 2021. The survey collected basic information, KM treatment experience, and satisfaction from women who experienced poor pregnancy. The t-test and chi-square test (χ2-test) were used to determine the overall characteristics of the subjects and factors affecting the utilization and satisfaction of KM treatment. Of the total of 29,465 people, 4,922 read the survey email, and 601 responded. After excluding 51 insincere respondents, 550 respondents were included in the final analysis. Of these, 43.1% had experience with conventional treatment, and 15.6% had received KM treatment. Integrative subfertility treatment was significantly more common (24.9%) than KM treatment alone (10.2%) (P=0.00). Women with no childbirth experience (P=0.01) and those with a master’s degree (P=0.01) were more willing to participate in the ‘KM Support Project for Subfertility’. Our findings suggest that subfertile patients prefer integrated medical treatment over KM alone. Further studies are needed to assess the status of integrative medicine treatment, satisfaction with each KM intervention, factors for low satisfaction, and patient requirements.

Inherited cardiomyopathies are a diverse group of heart muscle diseases caused by genetic mutations that result in structural and functional abnormalities of the myocardium. Understanding genotype-phenotype correlations in these conditions is vital for personalized cardiac medicine, enabling targeted therapeutic strategies and predictive diagnostics. This review explores the major types of inherited cardiomyopathies—hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), and restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM)—and provides detailed insights into how different genetic mutations manifest as clinical features. The integration of multi-omics approaches and advanced disease modeling techniques has enhanced our ability to dissect these correlations. The review also discusses the implications of these findings for personalized medicine, including tailored therapeutic strategies, predictive diagnostics, and future research directions.

Background/Objectives: The global burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) is projected to increase by 2040, highlighting the need for prevention strategies, early detection and adequate follow. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the progress in personalized medicine of CRC in Serbia, with results and insights from the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia (IORS), and to propose guidance for tackling observed challenges in the future. Methods: Epidemiological data was derived from official global and national cancer registries and IORS electronic medical records. Germline genetic testing for Lynch syndrome was performed by Next Generation Sequencing. RAS and BRAF mutation analyses were performed using qPCR diagnostic kits. Results: Epidemiology and risk factors, prevention and early detection programs, as well as treatment options and scientific advances have been described in detail. Out of 103 patients who underwent germline testing for Lynch syndrome, 19 (18.4%) had a pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutation in one of the MMR genes, and 8 (7.8%) in other CRC-associated genes (APC, CHEK2, MUTYH). Of 6369 tested patients, 50.43% had a mutation in KRAS or NRAS genes, while 9.54% had the V600 mutation in the BRAF gene. Conclusions: Although significant improvements in CRC management have occurred globally in recent years, the high incidence of young-onset CRC and the growing elderly population due to a rise in life expectancy require a strategic approach leading to population-based systemic solutions, especially important for countries with limited health care resources as Serbia.

Background Praziquantel is the commonly used conventional treatment recommended for schistosomiasis in the mainstream healthcare system. Although Praziquantel may be free in healthcare facilities, many individuals may resort to the use of traditional medicine. This study aimed to assess perceptions of participants on the availability of Praziquantel and to ascertain whether individuals infected with schistosomiasis used concurrently African traditional medicines with this treatment. Methods A cross–sectional descriptive study, using face-to-face interviews, was conducted from January to April 2023 among healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients. A review of medical chart records of patients was further carried out to triangulate the information from interviews. Ddescriptive statistics including frequency and percentage were used; categorical data were represented as tables. Chi-squared tests were performed for the association between continuous variables. A p value ≤ 0.05 was estimated as statistically significant. Results Most of HCWs (114/124; 91.9%) reported that Praziquantel was available in healthcare facilities. Majority of HCWs (76/124; 61.3%) did not know whether patients seen by them used concurrently traditional medicine and Praziquantel for schistosomiasis. There was no significant relationship between the availability of Praziquantel and the concurrent use of TM by patients for schistosomiasis (X2 = 3.042, p = 0.551). Patients seen by THPs (8/20, 40%) did not use Praziquantel for schistosomiasis. Those patients (8/15, 53.3%) who crossed from TM to the mainstream healthcare system did not disclose their use of TM to HCWs. Their main reason was that concurrent use of TM and Praziquantel could destroy organs or make Praziquantel not to work properly. None of the medical chart records analysed documented the concurrent use of TM and Praziquantel. Conclusion Most of HCWs were not aware of the concurrent use of TM and Praziquantel by patients for the treatment of schistosomiasis. Patients seen by THPs relied solely on TM for schistosomiasis. Although patients indicated crossing from TM to the mainstream healthcare system, there was no evidence of documented use of TM in medical chart records of patients. Further studies are needed to contribute to the knowledge of medicinal plants used by THPs for schistosomiasis.

Antidepressants are among the most used medications in the US, with significant deleterious effects on people’s well-being. At any given time, depression impacts approximately 1 in 10 Americans, causing wide and broad societal costs. Interest is developing for non-pharmacological treatments and preventative measures. We summarize the literature on non-invasive dietary and lifestyle approaches for treating depression, including recent work with the psychedelic treatment of depression. This review aims to inform future research and treatment programs for depression. This review provides an evidentiary summary of integrative therapeutic approaches for depression.

The following systematic and bibliographic review investigates the intersection between the treatment of cognitive impairments and virtual and augmented reality-based game-oriented applications. The review provides a view into the last 12 years of research. The PubMed Database served as the main source for the review. We defined a comprehensive set of investigation variables and classified three main topics: bibliography, medical, and technical. Of a total of 61 identified articles, 19 were included. The findings from these studies indicate the positive effects of using virtual and augmented reality applications to improve cognitive function and depression. There is also a gap in high-quality evidence since clinical trials have been conducted only with a few patients. Preliminary results indicate positive cognitive and physical well-being effects, but the field demands further investigation to determine the effectiveness. Future research needs to focus on larger studies and the quality of the developed applications. Further, it is important to look at scores like Quality of Living and Satisfaction in Daily Activities to create a functioning environment for the patient.

Arguably the most important parameter in treating cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease is the length of time in which improvement, if achieved at all, is sustained. However, monotherapies such as donepezil and memantine are associated with a more rapid decline than no treatment in patients over multi-year follow-ups {Kennedy, 2018 #535}. Furthermore, anti-amyloid antibody treatment, which at best simply slows decline, is associated with accelerated cerebral atrophy [2], resulting in earlier dementia-associated brain volumes for those treated at the MCI stage than untreated patients. In contrast, a precision medicine approach, in which the multiple potential drivers of cognitive decline are identified for each patient and then targeted with a personalized protocol (such as ReCODE), has led to documented improvement in patients with cognitive decline [3]; [4]; [5], but long-term follow-up (>5 years) has not been reported previously. Therefore, we report here sustained cognitive improvement, in some cases for over a decade, in patients treated with a precision medicine protocol—something that has not been reported in patients treated with anti-cholinesterase, glutamate receptor inhibitory, anti-amyloid, or other therapeutic methods. These case studies warrant long-term cohort studies to determine how frequently such sustained cognitive improvements occur in patients treated with precision medicine protocols.

Procedural and reporting guidelines frame the process of scientific practices and communications among researchers and the community at large. In the pursuit of fostering reproducibility, several methodological frameworks have been proposed by several initiatives. Nevertheless, recent studies indicate that data leakage and reproducibility are still prominent challenges. Recent studies have shown the transforming potential of incorporating the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) principles in the work-flow of different context such as software and machine learning model development stages to cultivate open science. In this work, we introduce a framework to calibrate reporting guidelines against the FAIR principles in order to foster reproducibility and open science. We adapted the “Best fit” framework synthesis approach to develop the calibration framework. We propose a series of defined workflows to calibrate reporting guidelines with FAIR principles and a use case to demonstrate the process. By integrating FAIR principles with established reporting guidelines, the proposed framework bridges the gap in accommodating both FAIR metrics and reporting guidelines and benefits from advantages of these major integrated components.

Renal cancer is a common and serious malignant tumor of the urinary system. While surgery effectively treats early-stage renal cancer, advanced cases pose a significant challenge due to poor treatment outcomes and chemotherapy resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop alternative therapeutic strategies. Ferroptosis is a newly defined form of programmed cell death characterized by the accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides, which plays a critical role in tumor progression and drug resistance. Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis is involved in the occurrence and development of renal cancer, ferroptosis related genes can induce cell apoptosis, and can be used as potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of renal cancer and participate in drug resistance of renal cancer chemotherapy. With the continuous improvement of the mechanism of ferroptosis, drugs targeting ferroptosis for the treatment of renal cancer are emerging in an endless stream, Based on the theoretical basis of the occurrence of ferroptosis, this paper reviewed drug-induced ferroptosis in renal cancer cells from the aspects of herbal medicine, natural compounds, drug resistance mechanisms, and nanomaterials, hoping to provide a new strategy for the treatment of renal cancer with ferroptosis related drugs.

CAR-T cell therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach in cancer treatment, leveraging the immune system to target and eliminate cancer cells. While currently focused on hematologic malignancies, the future holds promise for expanding CAR-T cell therapy to diverse cancers, enhancing its efficacy, and improving safety profiles. Recent advances in tumor immunology have propelled CAR-T cell therapy as a game-changer in treating diseases such as relapsed/refractory B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (B-ALL), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), and multiple myeloma (MM). Six CAR-T cell products have received FDA approval for treating R/R B cell malignancies. However, challenges persist, including complications like cytokine release syndrome (CRS), coagulopathy, and cytopenias. Strategies to mitigate these complications involve targeting distinct antigens with dual- or multi-targeted CAR-T cells and enhancing immunogenicity. Additionally, γδ CAR-T cells show promise in recognizing antigen- negative leukemia cells in an MHC-independent manner while reducing the risk of inducing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). As CAR-T cell therapy continues to evolve through innovation and discovery, it holds the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment, offering new hope to patients and reshaping the landscape of oncology with its precision and efficacy.

Ovarian cancer (OC) is an umbrella term for cancerous malignancies affecting the ovaries, yet treatment options for all subtypes are predominantly derived from high-grade serous ovarian cancer, the largest subgroup. The concept of "functional precision medicine" involves gaining personalized insights on therapy choice, based on direct exposure of patient tissues to drugs. This especially holds promise for rare subtypes like low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC). This study aims to establish an in vivo model for LGSOC using zebrafish embryos, comparing treatment responses previously observed in mouse PDX models, cell lines, and 3D tumor models. To address this goal, a well characterized patient-derived LGSOC cell line with the KRAS mutation c.35 G > T (p.(Gly12Val)) was used. Fluorescently labelled tumor cells were injected into the perivitelline space of 2 days post fertilization zebrafish embryos. At 1 day post-injection xenografts were as-sessed for tumor size, followed by random allocation into treatment groups with trametinib, luminespib, and trametinib + luminespib. Subsequently xenografts were euthanized and analysed for apoptosis and proliferation by confocal microscopy. Tumor cells formed compact tumor masses (n=84) in vivo and with clear Ki67 staining, indicating proliferation. Zebrafish xenografts exhibited sensitivity to trametinib and luminespib, individually or combined, within a two-week period, establishing them as a rapid and complementary tool to existing in vitro and in vivo models for evaluating targeted therapies in LGSOC.

Methylation is a biochemical process involving the addition of a methyl group (-CH3) to various chemical compounds. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the homeostasis of the endothelium, which lines the interior surface of blood vessels and has been linked, among other conditions, to coronary artery disease (CAD). Despite significant progress in CAD diagnosis and treatment, intensive research continues into genotypic and phenotypic CAD biomarkers. This review explores the significance of the methylation pathway and folate metabolism in CAD pathogenesis, with a focus on endothelial dysfunction resulting from deficiency in the active form of folate (5-MTHF). We discuss emerging areas of research into CAD biomarkers and factors influencing the methylation process. By highlighting genetically determined methylation disorders, particularly the MTHFR polymorphism, we propose the potential use of the active form of folic acid (5-MTHF) as a novel CAD biomarker and personalized pharmaceutical for selected patient groups. Our aim is to improve the identification of individuals at high risk of CAD and enhance their prognosis.

Hypertension is a global public health challenge, with a high prevalence across various regions and significant implications for cardiovascular risk. This article reviews the effectiveness of herbal medicine as a potential therapeutic approach for hypertension, offering an alternative or complementary solution to conventional pharmacological treatments. It highlights several natural agents that have demonstrated efficacy in lowering systolic blood pressure (SBP) in clinical and meta-analytical studies. The methodology involved a systematic review of articles that discuss herbal therapeutics for hypertension, focusing on their efficacy compared to placebo and standard treatments. The findings suggest that certain nutraceuticals, such as garlic, hawthorn, and CoQ10, can significantly reduce SBP, presenting a viable option for managing hypertension. This review underscores the need for further research to validate these findings and optimize herbal treatment strategies, potentially expanding the use of these natural products in clinical practice. The article aims to increase awareness among medical professionals and patients about the benefits and applications of herbal medicines in treating hypertension.

Aim: This study aims to explore the collaborative networks in Marfan Syndrome (MFS) research by analyzing co-authorship patterns from 2000 to 2023. The objective is to identify key researchers, trends in collaboration, and the extent of interdisciplinary cooperation within the global MFS research community. Understanding these dynamics will inform the future direction of research in this field, emphasizing the need for a more integrated, interdisciplinary approach. Method: This study utilized network analysis techniques to evaluate 6,657 publications related to MFS research indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. The analysis was conducted using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3). The co-authorship networks were assessed using macro-level indicators such as network density (the ratio of actual to possible connections), clustering coefficient (degree of node clustering), number of components (distinct connected subgroups), and average path length (average distance between nodes). Micro-level indicators including degree centrality (importance based on the number of connections), closeness centrality (proximity to other nodes), and betweenness centrality (frequency of a node on the shortest paths between others) were also analyzed. Result: The network analysis revealed a persistent fragmentation within the MFS research community over the past two decades. While network density slightly increased from 0.0012 in the 2000–2009 period to 0.0016 in 2020–2023, the network remained disjointed with numerous disconnected components. Key contributors, such as Harry C. Dietz, Guillaume Jondeau, and Julie De Backer, demonstrated high centrality values, playing pivotal roles in shaping collaboration. The clustering coefficient remained high across all periods, indicating strong intra-group collaboration, yet underscoring the need for broader interdisciplinary partnerships.Conclusion: This study highlights the need for more integrated and cross-disciplinary collaboration in MFS research. Despite the significant contributions of central researchers, the overall fragmentation limits potential advancements. Fostering a more interconnected global network and encouraging interdisciplinary cooperation will be crucial to addressing the complex, multi-systemic nature of Marfan Syndrome and improving patient outcomes.

Murine xenograft models are valuable and increasingly used preclinical tools in cancer research to understand disease pathogenesis and guide treatment options. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the studies that employed mouse xenograft models, using cell-lines, patient-derived tumors, or organoids, in endometrial cancer (EC) research, detailing their methodology and main findings. We identified 27 articles reporting on heterotopic EC xenografts, including subcutaneous, subrenal capsule, intraperitoneal, and retro-orbital models, and 18 articles using orthotopic xenografts. Subcutaneous xenografts generated using either cell-lines or patient tumors have been widely used, however, their low engraftment rates and the inability to recapitulate main clinical features such as metastases limit their translational value. Subrenal capsule models showed improved engraftment rates compared to subcutaneous models, but tumors exhibited slower and constrained tumor growth. Orthotopic models are technically more challenging to generate and monitor, but tumor growth occurs in a relevant microenvironment and EC ortho-xenografts exhibit high engraftment rates and metastases to clinically relevant sites. Cell-line based xenograft (CDXs) models are attractive tools because they are convenient, easy to use, and amenable to genetic modifications, making them suitable for proof-of-concept approaches and large-scale studies. EC xenografts developed from patient tumors (PDTXs) are more labor/cost intensive for their establishment but can capture the genetic and molecular heterogeneity within and across histologic subtypes and can inform on personalized patient treatment. EC organoid-based xenograft (PDOXs) models combine advantages of both CDXs and PDTXs since are more time and cost effective, maintain faithfully tumor characteristics and therapeutic responses, and can be genetically modified. Despite substantial progress in EC management, there are still several unmet needs. Efficient targeted treatments are currently indicated only for a small subgroup of patients, while women with recurrent or advanced stage EC have very few therapeutic options and their prognosis remains unfavorable. Novel (targeted) drugs, combinational regimens and tools to predict the real drug response in patients are urgently needed. Xenograft models are expected to inform on disease mechanisms and to help identify novel therapeutic options and the suitable target patients.

The shift towards Personalized Cancer Medicine (PCM) represents a significant transformation in cancer care, emphasizing tailored treatments based on genetic understanding of cancer at the cellular level. This review draws on recent literature to explore key factors influencing PCM implementation, highlighting the role of innovative leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and coordinated funding and regulatory strategies. Success in PCM relies on overcoming challenges such as integrating diverse medical disciplines, securing sustainable investment for shared infrastructures, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Effective leadership is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork, essential for translating complex biological insights into personalized treatment strategies. The transition to PCM necessitates not only organizational adaptation but also the development of new professional roles and training programs, underscoring the need for a multidisciplinary approach and the importance of team science in overcoming the limitations of traditional medical paradigms. The conclusion underscores that PCM's success hinges on creating collaborative environments that support innovation, adaptability, and shared vision among all stakeholders involved in cancer care.

Background/Objectives: The study outlines the systematic approach taken to develop and apply a robust NLP algorithm to determine the necessity of performing routine imaging after central venous catheter (CVC) placement and removal, based on the incidence of pneumothorax observed. Methods: Electronic health records from four university hospitals in Salzburg, Austria, on X-rays performed between 2012 and 2021 following CVC procedures, were analyzed using an NLP al-gorithm. The algorithm detected a pneumothorax in radiologists' reports and clinician requests, while excluding cases with contraindications such as chest injuries, prior pneumothorax, missing data, or unrelated follow-up X-rays. Chi-square tests were used to compare pneumothorax rates between CVC insertion and removal, and multivariate logistic regression identified risk factors, with a focus on age and gender. Results: The study analyzed 17,175 cases of patients aged 18 and older, with 95.4% involving CVC insertion and 4.6% involving CVC removal. Pneumothorax was identified in 106 cases after insertion (1.3%) and in 3 cases after removal (0.02%). The Chi-square test showed no statistically significant difference in pneumothorax incidence between insertion and removal (p = 0.4797), in-dicating no substantial difference in pneumothorax risk between these procedures. Conclusions: Given the lack of significant difference in pneumothorax incidence between CVC insertion and removal, and the established consensus that routine imaging is unnecessary after CVC removal, these findings indicate that routine imaging following CVC insertion may also be unnecessary in asymptomatic patients.

Poor therapeutic outcomes have been attributed to inter-individual and interethnic variability in cytochrome P450 (CYP450)-dependent metabolism and altered drug retention associated with P-glycoprotein (P-gp). An individualized pharmacotherapeutic approach would benefit the genetically diverse South African population. The study aim was to develop a validated, targeted, analytical method to quantify seven probe drugs and their metabolites in dried blood spots (DBS) using the Mitra™ volumetric absorptive micro-sampling device for blood collection. An Agilent liquid chromatography (LC) system coupled to a Sciex 4000 QTRAP tandem mass spectrometer (MS) was used for method optimization and validation. Targeted LC-MS/MS methods were validated according to ICH guidelines. The validated LC-MS/MS method met the required bioanalytical standards for specificity, sensitivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, carry-over, and stability. This study successfully validated the use of DBS, collected with the Mitra™ microsampling device, to measure expected probe drug and metabolite concentrations using the “Geneva phenotyping cocktail” for the purpose of simultaneous phenotyping of in vivo CYP450 metabolic activity of the CYP1A2, -2B6, -2C9, -2C19, -2D6, and -3A4 enzymes, and P-gp transport activity. However, statistical analysis using Bland-Altman plots showed that not all analytes exhibited linear distribution pharmacokinetics between DBS and plasma, which influenced the predicted vs real plasma concentrations based on measurements in a DBS matrix. These findings were attributed to the blood-to-plasma concentration ratio, the physicochemical properties and stability of the analytes, and the extraction efficiency of the Mitra™ sampler. More research is required before DBS sampling can be substituted for conventional plasma sampling

Medicinal plants have been a cornerstone of traditional medicine systems for centuries, offering a vast array of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. However, the identification, characterization, and elucidation of the pharmacological properties of these plants have often been challenging due to their complex chemical composition and diverse biological activities. Bioinformatics, with its interdisciplinary approach combining biology, computer science, and information technology, presents a powerful toolkit for the systematic study of medicinal plants. This review provides an overview of bioinformatics methodologies and resources that can facilitate the identification, phytochemical analysis, pharmacological investigation, and conservation of medicinal plants. It highlights the integration of omics technologies, computational algorithms, database resources, and molecular modeling techniques in advancing our understanding of medicinal plants' therapeutic potential and their applications in drug discovery and development.

A detailed review of the scientific literature was undertaken to examine the most recent developments in plasma processing in the field of medicine. The first part of the review includes a detailed breakdown of the different types of coatings that can be applied onto medical devices using plasma, with a specific focus on antimicrobial surfaces. The developments during 2023 in plasma deposited biocompatible, drug delivery and adhesive coatings are described and specific applications in additive manufacturing are highlighted. The use of plasma and plasma activated liquids as standalone therapeutics continues to evolve and pertinent advances in this field are described. In addition, the combination of plasma medicine with conventional pharmaceutical interventions was reviewed and key emerging trends were highlighted, including the use of plasma to enhance drug delivery directly into tissue. The potential synergies between plasma medicine and chemotherapeutics for oncology and infection treatment is a growing area and recent advancements are noted. Finally, the use of plasma to control excess antibiotics and to intentionally degrade such materials in waste streams is described.

In most countries, the incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is no more than 1 per 100,000 for both men and women; however, it is much higher for men and women in Taiwan. The use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as complementary and alternative medicine for the treatment of NPC and its treatment-related side effects has been increasing. The National Health Insurance (NHI) covers 99.6% of Taiwan’s residents. In the present population-based cohort study, we aimed to investigate the pattern of utilization of Chinese herbal products (CHPs) for NPC from 2001 through 2011 in Taiwan. We identified a total of 30294 patients with newly diagnosed NPC from the Registry for Catastrophic Illnesses Patient Database (RCIPD). Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analysis were employed to estimate the adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for CHP utilization. From 2001 through 2011, 17816 patients aged ≥20 years were newly diagnosed with NPC. Of these, 4749 patients used TCM outpatient services for NPC treatment. TCM users were more likely to be women, young, residents of Central Taiwan, and white-collar workers. The most commonly prescribed formula CHP was Gan-Lu-Yin, followed by Xin-Yi-Qing Fei-Tang and Shan-Shen-Mai-Men-Dong-Tang. The most commonly prescribed single CHP was Hedyotis diffusa, followed by Radix Scrophulariae and Radix Ophiopogonis. These findings provide information regarding personalized therapies for NPC and can promote further clinical experiments and pharmacological research on CHPs for NPC treatment in Taiwan. Further well-designed randomized controlled studies and basic mechanistic studies should assess the safety and effectiveness of CHPs for NPC treatment.

Background/Objectives: Heart failure (HF) is a chronic disease with a steadily increasing prevalence, high mortality, social and economic costs. Furthermore, every hospitalisation for acute HF is associated with worsening prognosis and reduced life expectancy. In order to prevent hospitalisations, it would be useful to have instruments that can predict them well in advance. Methods: We performed a review on remote monitoring of heart failure through implantable devices.; Results: Precise multi-parameter algorithms, available for ICD and CRT-D patients, have been created, which also use artificial intelligence and are able to predict a new heart failure event more than 30 days in advance. There are also implantable pulmonary artery devices that can predict hospitalisations and reduce the impact of heart failure. proper organisation of transmission and alerts management is crucial for clinical success in using these tools. Conclusions: The full implementation of remote monitoring of implantable devices and in particular the use of new algorithms for the prediction of acute heart failure episodes represents a huge challenge but also a huge opportunity.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the structure and impact of research collaborations in colonoscopy from 2000 to 2023 by examining co-authorship networks. The goal is to understand the evolution of these networks, identify key contributors, and assess how collaborative relationships influence the field. Method: I conducted a comprehensive network analysis of co-authorship patterns using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection database. The analysis included 41,213 articles related to colonoscopy published between 2000 and 2023. Using Python (Version 3.10.5) and PyCharm (Software Version 2022.1.3), we evaluated the networks through macro-level indicators (network density, clustering coefficient, number of components, average distance) and micro-level indicators (degree centrality, closeness centrality, betweenness centrality).Result: The analysis revealed a network with increasing but still fragmented collaboration over the years. The network density showed low proportions of realized connections relative to potential ones, with a high clustering coefficient indicating tight-knit groups when collaborations occurred. The number of components remained high, reflecting a fragmented structure. Prominent researchers such as Hassan, Cesare (Italy) and Dekker, Evelien (Netherlands) consistently emerged as central figures across different periods, demonstrating significant roles in facilitating connections between various research clusters.Conclusion: The study highlights a growing but fragmented collaborative landscape in colonoscopy research. Key researchers have played central roles in connecting different parts of the network, yet there remains substantial room for further integration. Strengthening collaborations across isolated groups could enhance the cohesiveness and impact of research in this field.

Metabolomics is an advanced technology, still under development, with multiple research applications, especially in the field of health. Individual metabolic profiles, the functionality of the body, as well as its interaction with the environment can be established using this technology. The body's response to various external factors, including the food consumed and the nutrients it contains, has increased researchers' interest in nutrimetabolomics. Establishing correlations between diet and the occurrence of various diseases or even the development of personalized nutrition plans, could contribute to advances in precision medicine. The interdependence between humans, animals and the environment are of particular importance today, with the dramatic emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases, food, water and soil contamination, and the degradation of resources and habitats. All these events have led to an increase of risk factors for functional diseases, burdening global health. Thus, this study aimed to highlight the importance of metabolomics, in particular of nutrimetabolomics, as a technical solution for a holistic, collaborative, and precise approach for the advancement of the One Health strategy.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the structure of the co-authorship network in viral hepatitis research from 2000 to 2023 using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection. The objective is to identify key researchers, evaluate the collaborative dynamics, and understand the evolution of scientific contributions in this field. Method: This study utilized network analysis techniques to evaluate 60,720 publications related to viral hepatitis research indexed in the WoS Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. The analysis was conducted using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3). The co-authorship networks were assessed using macro-level indicators such as network density (the ratio of actual to possible connections), clustering coefficient (degree of node clustering), number of components (distinct connected subgroups), and average path length (average distance between nodes). Micro-level indicators including degree centrality (importance based on the number of connections), closeness centrality (proximity to other nodes), and betweenness centrality (frequency of a node on the shortest paths between others) were also analyzed.Result: The findings reveal that the viral hepatitis research network is characterized by low network density, indicating sparse overall collaboration. However, the clustering coefficient is high, suggesting strong collaborations within small, cohesive groups. Over the years, researchers such as Stefan Zeuzem, Maria Buti, and Fabien Zoulim have played pivotal roles, serving as central figures in the network. A noticeable increase in network density and clustering from 2020-2023 suggests growing collaboration in recent years.Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of international collaboration in advancing viral hepatitis research. Key researchers have emerged as influential contributors, facilitating global research activities. Network analysis provides valuable insight into the structure of these collaborations and helps identify potential areas for future research and partnerships to combat viral hepatitis globally. The results of this study should be used to reduce global healthcare disparities, promote research collaboration, and address viral hepatitis as a global public health problem.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the collaborative networks and identify key players in autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) research from 2000 to 2023. Using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection, I assess the structure and evolution of co-authorship networks to understand collaboration trends and influential researchers in the field.Method: I conducted a network analysis of co-authorship patterns in AIP research using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3). The analysis included macro-level indicators: network density, clustering coefficient, components, and average distance, as well as micro-level indicators: degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality. These metrics were used to evaluate the connectivity, clustering, and key nodes within the network across three distinct periods: 2000-2009, 2010-2019, and 2020-2023.Result: The analysis revealed that the co-authorship network in AIP research evolved from a fragmented structure with limited collaboration in the early 2000s to a more interconnected but still dispersed network in recent years. Despite an increase in network density and a decrease in the number of disconnected components over time, the overall structure remains highly clustered, with many researchers operating within isolated groups. Key figures, such as Kazuichi Okazaki, Terumi Kamisawa, and Shigeyuki Kawa from Japan, consistently ranked high in centrality measures, highlighting their significant influence and leadership in the field. The findings suggest that while local collaborations are strong, broader international connections are still developing.Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the collaborative landscape in AIP research, identifying central researchers and highlighting persistent fragmentation within the network. The prominent role of Japanese researchers in shaping the field underscores the importance of fostering greater international collaboration to bridge gaps between research clusters. Enhancing global partnerships could lead to more integrated and impactful research outcomes, ultimately advancing the understanding and management of autoimmune pancreatitis.

Fluoropyrimidines (FPs) are commonly prescribed in many cancer streams. The DPYD*2A (rs3918290), *13 (rs55886062), *HapB3 (rs56038477), alleles, and DPYD rs67376798, had shown the highest level of evidence about their association with FPs response. The EMA and FDA-approved drug labels for FPs, recommend genotyping these variants before treatment starts. We implemented the DPYD genotyping in our daily clinical routine, but we still find patients showing severe adverse drug events (ADEs) to FPs. We studied among these patients the association with the response to FPs of DPYD rs1801265, rs17376848, rs1801159, rs1801160, rs1801158, and rs2297595; as explanatory candidates of the interindividual differences for the FP-related toxicities. We also studied the impact of DPYD*2A, *13, *HapB3, and rs67376798 genotype for FP dose tailoring in our clinical practice and characterized the DPYD gene in our population. We found that FP dose lowering based on DPYD genotype does not affect the treatment efficacy. Also, the DPYD*4 (defined by rs1801158) allele was associated with a higher risk of ADEs (severity grade ≥ 3) in both the univariate (O.R.= 5.66; 95% C.I.= 1.35 – 23.67; p= 0.014) and multivariate analyses (O.R.= 5.73; 95% C.I.= 1.41 – 28.77; p= 0.019). This makes it a candidate variant for implementation in clinical practice.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common high-grade intracranial tumor in adults. It is characterized by uncontrolled proliferation, diffuse infiltration due to high invasive and migratory capacities, as well as intense resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. With a five-year survival of less than 3% and an average survival rate of 12 months after diagnosis, GBM has become a focus of current research to urgently develop new therapeutic approaches in order to prolong survival of GBM patients. The methylation status of the promoter region of the O6-methylguanine–DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is nowadays routinely analyzed, since a methylated promoter region is beneficial for an effective response to temozolomide-based chemotherapy. Furthermore, several miRNAs were identified regulating MGMT expression, apart from promoter methylation, by degrading MGMT mRNA before protein translation. These miRNAs could be a promising innovative treatment approach to enhance Temozolomide (TMZ) sensitivity in MGMT unmethylated patients and to increase progression-free survival as well as long-term survival. In this review, the relevant miRNAs are systematically reviewed.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the structure of the co-authorship network in Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) research from 2000 to 2023 using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection. The objective is to identify key researchers, evaluate the collaborative dynamics, and understand the evolution of scientific contributions in this field. Method: This study utilized network analysis techniques to evaluate 2,877 publications related to BCS research indexed in the WoS Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. The analysis was conducted using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3). The co-authorship networks were assessed using macro-level indicators such as network density (the ratio of actual to possible connections), clustering coefficient (degree of node clustering), number of components (distinct connected subgroups), and average path length (average distance between nodes). Micro-level indicators including degree centrality (importance based on the number of connections), closeness centrality (proximity to other nodes), and betweenness centrality (frequency of a node on the shortest paths between others) were also analyzed.Result: The results revealed a highly fragmented network structure in the early years (2000-2009), characterized by low network density (0.0017) and a large number of disconnected components (533). Key researchers such as Aurelie Plessier and Dominique Valla emerged as central figures in terms of degree and closeness centrality. In the 2010-2019 period, the network showed slight improvements, with density decreasing to 0.0016 but an increase in the number of components to 645, indicating persistent fragmentation. From 2020 to 2023, the network demonstrated increased cohesiveness with a density of 0.0032 and a reduction in components to 376. Influential researchers in the final period included Virginia Hernandez-Gea and Valerie Paradis, who played pivotal roles in connecting disparate research clusters.Conclusion: The co-authorship network analysis of BCS research over the past two decades highlights a gradual yet incomplete evolution towards greater collaboration and integration among researchers. While the network's cohesiveness has improved, significant fragmentation remains, suggesting that further efforts are needed to enhance global and interdisciplinary collaboration. Addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering a more connected and productive research community that can advance the understanding and management of BCS.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the evolution of co-author networks in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) research from 2000 to 2023, using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection. The objective is to provide a structural overview of researcher collaborations in this specialized field, highlighting key contributors and the impact of international cooperation. Method: I conducted a co-author network analysis on 19,463 GERD -related articles indexed in the WoS Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. Using Python (Version 3.10.5) within the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3), I assessed macro-level indicators including network density, clustering coefficient, number of components, and average distance. Micro-level indicators such as degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality were also evaluated to understand the roles of individual researchers in the network.Result: The GERD co-authorship network exhibited a sparse structure with low network density, indicating limited realized collaborations compared to potential connections. The clustering coefficient was consistently high across the analyzed periods, suggesting that researchers frequently formed tight-knit groups. The network was fragmented into numerous components, with significant disconnection between groups. Degree centrality highlighted key researchers such as Dent, J., and Shaheen, N.J., who had extensive collaborative reach. In contrast, closeness and betweenness centrality identified strategic intermediaries like Bredenoord, A.J. and Kahrilas, P.J., who facilitated connections across otherwise isolated segments of the network.Conclusion: The co-authorship network analysis revealed a persistently fragmented landscape in GERD research, with considerable room for enhancing collaboration among researchers. Identifying key contributors and understanding their roles within the network can guide future efforts to foster more integrated and comprehensive research collaborations. This study underscores the importance of strategic networking and partnership development in advancing GERD research and optimizing the field's collaborative potential.

The prevalence of autism has been increasing at an alarming rate. Even accounting for the expansion of autism spectrum disorder diagnostic (ASD) criteria throughout the 1990’s, there has been an over 300% increase in ASD prevalence since the year 2000. The often debilitating personal, familial, and societal sequelae of autism are generally believed to be lifelong. However, there have been several encouraging case reports demonstrating reversal of autism diagnoses with a therapeutic focus on addressing the environmental and modifiable lifestyle factors believed to be largely underlying the condition. This case report describes the reversal of autism among dizygotic, female twin toddlers and provides a review of related literature describing associations between modifiable lifestyle factors, environmental exposures, and various clinical approaches to treating autism. The twins were diagnosed with Level 3 severity ASD “requiring very substantial support” at approximately 20 months of age following concerns of limited verbal and non-verbal communication, repetitive behaviors, rigidity around transitions, and extensive gastrointestinal symptoms, among other common symptoms. A parent-driven, multidisciplinary, therapeutic intervention involving a variety of licensed clinicians focusing primarily on addressing environmental and modifiable lifestyle factors was personalized to each of the twin’s symptoms, labs, and other outcome measures. Dramatic improvements were noted within several months in most domains of the twins’ symptoms, which was manifested in reductions of Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) scores from 76 to 32 in one of the twins and from 43 to 4 in the other twin. The improvement in symptoms and ATEC scores has remained relatively stable for six months at last assessment. While prospective studies are required, this case offers further encouraging evidence of ASD reversal through a personalized, multidisciplinary approach focusing predominantly on addressing environmental and lifestyle risk factors.

Concomitant neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) are common in the brains of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Furthermore, AD biomarkers are associated with cognitive decline and dementia in PD patients during life. Here, we highlight the considerable overlap between AD and PD, emphasizing neuropathological, biomarker, and mechanistic studies. We suggest that precision medicine approaches may successfully identify PD patients most likely to develop concomitant AD. The ability to identify PD patients at high risk for future concomitant AD in turn provides an ideal cohort for trials of AD-directed therapies in PD patients, aimed at delaying or preventing cognitive symptoms.

Background: Molecular nuclear medicine, due to hybrid imaging camera systems and new tailored radiopharmaceuticals, has been gained a clinical relevance for diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of solid tumors. Despite numerous literature studies, many new radiopharmaceuticals for imaging tumor microenvironment, have not yet been used, routinely, in oncological clinical practice to monitor treatments. This is due to poor comparability of published studies, due to poor design and methodology, heterogeneous population and prevalence of preclinical studies. Methods: In this systematic review, we described the use of radiopharmaceuticals for evaluation of tumor treatment response by targeting microenvironment. We reviewed studies published from 2000 to 2020, to provide an updated status of research in this topic. Results: There is a growing role of radiopharmaceuticals and nuclear medicine imaging techniques in the management of cancer treatments, especially immunotherapy. Of the 24 papers included, 16 were preclinical studies. Conclusions: New radiopharmaceuticals could have an excellent impact in molecular imaging, leading to better diagnosis and important clinical information for therapy decision making and follow-up of cancer treatments in different solid tumors. Recently developed radiopharmaceuticals may provide great advantage to improve personalized medicine for patients with a great cost-effectiveness ratio.

A novel scaffold design has been created to enhance tissue engineering and regenerative medicine by optimizing the controlled, prolonged release of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a powerful chemoattractant for endogenous mesenchymal stem cells. We present a new stacked scaffold that is made up of three different fibrin gel layers, each of which has HGF integrated into the matrix. The design attempts to preserve HGF's regenerative properties for long periods of time, which is necessary for complex tissue regeneration. These multi-layered fibrin gels have been mechanically evaluated using rheometry, and their degradation behavior has been studied using D-Dimer ELISA. Understanding the kinetics of HGF release from this novel scaffold configuration is essential for understanding HGF's long-term sustained bioactivity. A range of cell-based tests were carried out to verify the functionality of HGF following extended incorporation. These tests included 2-photon microscopy using phalloidin staining to examine cellular morphology, SEM analysis for scaffold-cell interactions, and scratch and scatter assays to assess migration and motility. The analyses show that the novel stacking scaffold promotes vital cellular processes for tissue regeneration in addition to supporting HGF's bioactivity. This scaffold design was developed for in situ tissue engineering. Using the body as a bioreactor, the scaffold should recruit mesenchymal stem cells from their niche thus combining the regenerative abilities of HGF and MSCs to promote tissue remodeling and wound repair.

Aim: This study aims to explore the collaborative networks in Sodium/Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) research, covering the period from 2000 to 2023. By conducting a co-authorship network analysis, I investigate the structure and dynamics of scientific collaboration, identifying key researchers, institutions, and trends in the field. This analysis provides insights into how research collaboration has evolved and highlights the influence of international cooperation on the development of SGLT2 research.Method: The data were collected from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection and included 6,999 publications on SGLT2 research. Using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3), I analyzed both macro and micro-level network indicators. Macro-level indicators included network density, clustering coefficient, components, and average distance, while micro-level indicators included degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality. These metrics were used to assess the structure of the co-authorship network and identify key contributors.Result: The network analysis revealed significant changes in collaboration patterns over the study period. From 2000 to 2023, the network became more fragmented, with an increase in the number of research clusters and components. However, influential researchers, such as Zinman B. and Heerspink Hiddo J. L., consistently emerged as central figures in terms of both degree and closeness centrality. The analysis also highlighted the rise of international collaboration, particularly involving researchers from the United States, Europe, and Asia, with Japan playing a growing role in recent years.Conclusion: This study demonstrates that SGLT2 research collaboration networks have evolved considerably over the last two decades. The identification of key researchers and institutions provides valuable insights into the field's development, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in advancing SGLT2 research. These findings may guide future research strategies and promote further collaborative efforts.

Understanding complex Portable Document Format (PDF) files, such as research papers, clinical reports, and scientific manuals, is often a time-consuming endeavor. While significant progress has been made in developing question-answering (QA) systems that yield contextually relevant responses, the creation of a comprehensive end-to-end machine learning model capable of addressing intricate questions remains a formidable challenge. These systems typically rely on substantial labeled training data to effectively train their foundational models for specific tasks. However, assembling such datasets is particularly challenging for complex documents, including annual reports from major technology companies. In this paper, we address this issue by developing a QA system specifically designed for PDF documents, focusing on the domains of finance, biomedicine, and scientific literature. We manually curated datasets from these areas for evaluation purposes and utilized pre-trained Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) models from the Hugging Face library. The models were evaluated using the F1 score, achieving a notable score of 44% with the BERT Large model.

Background: Radiotherapy in the head-and-neck area is one of the main curative treatment options. However, this comes at the cost of varying levels of normal tissue toxicity, affecting up to 80% of patients. Mucositis can cause pain, weight loss and treatment delay leading to worse outcomes and decreased quality of life. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an approach to predict normal mucosa response in patients prior to treatment. Methods: We here describe an assay to detect irradiation response in patient healthy oral mucosa tissue. Mucosa specimens from the oral cavity were obtained after surgical resection, cut into thin slices, irradiated, and cultured for three days. Seven samples were irradiated with X-ray and three additional samples were irradiated with both X-ray and protons. Results: Healthy oral mucosa tissue slices maintained normal morphology and viability for three days. We measured a dose-dependent response to X-ray irradiation and compared X-ray and proton irradiation in the same mucosa sample, using standardized automated image analysis. Furthermore, increased levels of inflammation inducing factors - major drivers in mucositis development - could be detected after irradiation. Conclusion: This model can be utilized for investigating mechanistic aspects of mucositis development and can be developed into an assay to predict radiation-induced toxicity in normal mucosa.

Studies on Medical Geology have up till recently tended to emphasise the harmful effects of geological material and processes. This is perhaps justifiable, given the realisation that many environmental diseases could have causal links with some geo-environmental variables as co-factors, making such studies extremely valuable in the improvement of diagnoses and therapy. However, this review aims to show that in addition to the high value of such research, studies conducted on the beneficial properties of Earth materials also have considerable merit, given their enormous potential for assuaging a wide range of environmental health disorders. For instance, certain geological materials including clay minerals contain active substances that show considerable promise in various applications such as pharmaceutical formulations, aesthetic medicine, and indigenous medicine. This review synthesises current knowledge of how certain geological materials can be exploited in formulating remedies for some human health problems. Reports of the therapeutic uses of clay minerals, zinc oxide (zincite), zeolite, and kaolin are appraised. The review shows that ancient and contemporary use of geological materials such as clay minerals have played crucial roles in the treatment of several human diseases, with recent and ongoing research revealing further development in these applications. Well strategised clinical trials using available resources could give impetus to further research in elucidating the potential of various geomaterials as innovative clinical remedies for some human diseases and infections as well as aid the proper scientific documentation of their natural uses.

Aim: This study aims to investigate the global collaboration network among researchers studying Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS) from 2000 to 2023. Given the syndrome's increasing prevalence in aging populations, understanding the structure of research collaboration is crucial to advancing the field. This analysis explores co-authorship networks to identify key contributors, institutions, and trends in SSS research. Method: This study utilized network analysis techniques to evaluate 1,693 publications related to SSS research indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. The analysis was conducted using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3). The co-authorship networks were assessed using macro-level indicators such as network density (the ratio of actual to possible connections), clustering coefficient (degree of node clustering), number of components (distinct connected subgroups), and average path length (average distance between nodes). Micro-level indicators including degree centrality (importance based on the number of connections), closeness centrality (proximity to other nodes), and betweenness centrality (frequency of a node on the shortest paths between others) were also analyzed.Result: The analysis revealed an overall increase in collaboration over time, with rising network density and stronger local clusters, although the network remained fragmented. Key researchers, including Boriani, Giuseppe (Italy), and Glikson, Michael (Australia), emerged as central figures, demonstrating high degrees of centrality in different periods. The results also highlight persistent regional and institutional collaboration patterns, reflecting the growing importance of global partnerships in addressing SSS.Conclusion: This comprehensive network analysis underscores the importance of international collaboration in advancing SSS research. Despite growing collaborative efforts, the field remains somewhat fragmented, suggesting further opportunities for integration. This research has enabled us to identify influential researchers and research institutions, and we will be able to promote research collaboration to further understand and improve treatment methods for SSS as a response to the aging of the world's population.

As a holistic medical school, Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) considers the human body as a dynamic and intricate network of interconnecting processes. Currently, systems biology and more precisely systems medicine and pharmacology can be an aid in providing rationalizations for many traditional medications and treatments and elucidating a great deal of knowledge they can offer to guide future research in medicine. Therefore, re-organization and standardization of traditional medicine data are requested more than ever before. To address this issue, we have constructed UNaProd, a Universal Natural Product database for materia medica of ITM. Primarily based on Makhzan al-Advieh, which is the most recent encyclopedia of materia medica in ITM with the largest number of monographs, this database was created using both text mining methods and manual editing. UNaProd is currently hosting to 2696 monographs from herbal to animal to mineral compounds in 16 diverse attributes such as origin and scientific name. In the current version, UNaProd is hyperlinked to IrGO and CMAUP databases for Mizaj and molecular features respectively and it is freely available at http://jafarilab.com/unaprod/.

Nanofiber-based systems have emerged as a groundbreaking approach in the field of regenerative medicine, offering immense potential for tissue engineering and regenerative therapies. These systems, composed of nanoscale fibers, provide a unique platform for mimicking/bio-mimicking the complex structures and functionalities of native tissues, enabling the regeneration of injured tissues. This letter aims to provide a brief overview of nanofiber-based systems in regenerative medicine, discovering their importance, design, and fabrication techniques, characterization, biocompatibility, applications, challenges, and future directions as well as discussing key concepts and techniques involved in the development of this innovative tool.

The dawn of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare stands as a milestone in medical innovation. A plethora of different medical fields are heavily involved and pediatric emergency medicine is no exception. These new tools do not merely provide more advanced and efficient systems for patients’ diagnosis, management and treatment. They rather concern a strict shift from traditional methods based upon broad categories towards a more personalized healthcare. AI offers many promises in pediatric emergency medicine with a wide range of applications involving clinical decision making, patients’ flows management and prioritization. Main barriers to a widespread diffusion involve technological challenges but also ethical issues and the paucity of extensive datasets in pediatric contexts. We conducted a narrative review structured in two parts. The first part explores the theoretical principles of AI, providing all the necessary background to feel confident with these new state-of-the-art tools. The second part presents an informative analysis of AI models in pediatric emergencies, pointing out the actual applications and challenges until future feasible research perspectives.

The primary objective of this study is to report the initial efficacy data observed with the use of cryopreserved human umbilical tissue allograft for the supplementation of cartilage defects in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Our primary endpoints were pain, stiffness, and functional recovery scores. In this ongoing study, 55 participants (age 56-93 years) received a single Wharton's jelly tissue allograft application. The study dose consisted of 150mg of Wharton's jelly allograft suspended in approximately 2mL of sterile Sodium Chloride 0.9% solution (normal saline). Each study knee application was performed under ultrasound guidance in a physician's office. The research methodology consisted of NPRS scores and WOMAC subsection scores including pain, stiffness, and physical function. Study enrollment consisted of 55 patients followed for a post-application duration of 90 days. No adverse events or adverse reactions were reported. The results demonstrated statistically significant improvements of NPRS and WOMAC in initial versus 90-day examination. The data represents Wharton's jelly tissue allograft applications are a safe, non-surgical, and efficacious for patients with symptomatic articular cartilage defects associated with osteoarthritis of the knee. 

Parallel-serial (hybrid) manipulators represent robotic systems composed of kinematic chains with parallel and serial structures. These manipulators combine the benefits of both parallel and serial mechanisms, such as increased stiffness, high positioning accuracy, and a large workspace. This study discusses the existing architectures and applications of parallel-serial robots and the methods of their design and analysis. The paper reviews around 500 articles and presents over 150 architectures of manipulators used in machining, medicine, and pick-and-place tasks, humanoids and legged systems, haptic devices, simulators, and other applications, covering both lower mobility and kinematically redundant robots. After that, the paper considers how researchers have developed and analyzed these manipulators. In particular, it examines methods of type synthesis, mobility, kinematic, and dynamic analysis, workspace and singularity determination, performance evaluation, optimal design, control, and calibration. The review concludes with a discussion of current trends in the field of parallel-serial manipulators and potential directions for future studies.

Beginning in 2022, the Mpox outbreak, formerly known as monkeypox, has since spread to more than 100 countries and is now a global public health concern. This disease, caused by the Mpox virus, is usually mild, and most infected individuals recover within a few weeks without treatment. However, severe cases have been seen especially in children, pregnant women, or immunocompromised individuals. Antiviral medications such as brincidofovir, tecovirimat, and cidofovir were recently approved for Mpox; but these drugs are expensive and not easily obtainable. Therefore, identifying effective and low-cost drugs against Mpox and testing these through clinical trials remains a priority for global health. Drug repurposing is a well-known strategy for redeploying existing licensed drugs for newer indications, allowing for the shortest possible transition from bench to bedside. Recent in silico studies have determined the efficacy of minocycline, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, and glycyrrhizinic acid against Mpox virus. Notably, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, and glycyrrhizinic acid are some of the components of Japanese Kampo medicines, which are low-cost medicines prescribed daily in Japan. Thus, minocycline and Japanese Kampo medicines could potentially be used to treat Mpox.

Cancer is fundamentally a disease of perturbed genes. Although many mutations can be marked in the genome of a cancer or transformed cell, the initiation and progression were shown to be driven by only a few mutational events viz. driver mutations that progressively govern and execute the functional impacts. The driver mutations are thus believed to dictate and dysregulate the subsequent cellular proliferative function/decisions thereby producing a cancerous state. Therefore, identifying the driver events from the genomic alterations in a patient’s cancer cell gained large attention recently for designing better targeting therapies towards paving way for the precision cancer medicine. With rolling advancements in high-throughput omics technologies, analysis of genetic variations and gene expression profiles for cancer patients has become a routine clinical practice. However, it is anticipated that protein structural alterations resulting from such driver mutations can provide more direct and clinically relevant evidence of disease states than genetic signatures alone. This review comprehensively discusses various aspects and approaches that have been developed for the prediction of cancer drivers using genetic signatures and protein structures, and their potential application in developing precision cancer therapies.Keywords:

The platelet count, a component of the full blood count, has been identified as a useful diagnostic marker for cancer in primary care. The reference range for the platelet count is 150 to 400 or 450 × 109/l; this range does not account for natural variation in platelet count by age and sex. This study used three primary care cohorts from England Canada, and Australia. Patients aged 40 years and over with a full blood count were included and stratified by age (in 10-year bands), sex, (male/female), and platelet count group. Cancer incidence within one year of test date was estimated from linked registry data. In all three countries there was a clear upwards trend in cancer incidence with increasing platelet count, for both sexes and at all age groups. Lung and colorectal were the most common sites. These results have important implications for the international application of this work; analysis of local health datasets will be crucial to determine appropriate thresholds. Appropriate upper thresholds will depend on local populations, healthcare needs, and priorities. Further research is needed to assess the likely impact of new recommendations on the healthcare system, on cancer outcomes, and patient benefit.

The importance of personalized medicine is growing, since there is an urged need to avoid unnecessary and expensive treatments. In nuclear medicine, the theranostic approach is an established tool for a specific molecular targeting in means of diagnostics and therapy. The visualisation of potential targets can help to predict if a patient would benefit from a particular treatment or not. Thanks to the quick development of radiopharmaceuticals and diagnostic techniques, the use of theranostic agents is constantly rising. In this article important milestones of nuclear therapies and diagnostics in the context of theranostics are highlighted. It begins with the well-known radioiodine therapy in patients with thyroid cancer and then guides through different approaches for the treatment of advanced cancer with targeted therapies. The aim of this review is to provide a summary of background knowledge, current applications and advantages of targeted therapies and imaging in nuclear medicine practice.

This article evaluates the reliability and consistency of nutrition- and supplementation-related advice for pregnant women provided by ten selected health-related Internet portals. The portals were chosen based on their perceived reliability and prominence in Google searches, with representation from both English and Polish language sources. The evaluation criteria included the adherence of the presented information to official recommendations and its evidence-based character based on specific items representing dietary aspects important in pregnancy. While the overall reliability was deemed acceptable, significant variations existed both among the portals and specific evaluated items. Notably, HealthLine, Medline Plus, and NCEZ emerged as the most evidence-based, while WebMD and Medycyna Praktyczna were identified as less reliable. Despite a number of issues, the analysed portals remain valuable sources of nutritional information for pregnant women, offering user-friendly accessibility superior to alternatives such as social media, on the one hand, and scientific articles, on the other. Improved consistency and attention to detail, especially in relation to vitamin intake and supplementation, would improve the overall quality of health portals.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the collaborative structure of Intestinal Behçet’s Disease (IBD) research by examining co-authorship networks in publications indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection from 2000 to 2023. The goal is to identify key researchers, institutions, and collaboration patterns that have shaped the field over the past two decades. Method: This study utilized network analysis techniques to evaluate 484 publications related to IBD research indexed in the WoS Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. The analysis was conducted using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3). The co-authorship networks were assessed using macro-level indicators such as network density (the ratio of actual to possible connections), clustering coefficient (degree of node clustering), number of components (distinct connected subgroups), and average path length (average distance between nodes). Micro-level indicators including degree centrality (importance based on the number of connections), closeness centrality (proximity to other nodes), and betweenness centrality (frequency of a node on the shortest paths between others) were also analyzed.Result: From 2000 to 2009, the co-authorship network was highly fragmented with a low network density of 0.0114 and 84 distinct components, indicating limited collaboration. Key contributors during this period included Kim, Won Ho, and Cheon, Jae Hee (South Korea), who played central roles in connecting disparate research clusters. In the following decade (2010-2019), network density decreased slightly to 0.0086, and the number of components increased to 113, reflecting continued fragmentation despite growing research output. However, from 2020 to 2023, network density increased to 0.0171, and the number of components decreased to 73, indicating a trend towards greater integration and collaboration. Notable researchers in this period included Emmi, Giacomo (Italy), and Hatemi, Gulen (Turkey), who emerged as central figures, highlighting a shift in research leadership from Asia to Europe..Conclusion: The co-authorship network analysis of IBD research reveals an evolving collaborative landscape with increasing network density and decreasing fragmentation over time, particularly in the most recent period. From 2000 to 2019, Japanese and Korean researchers were prominent contributors, highlighting the significance of Asia in the global research arena. However, since 2020, researchers from Italy and Turkey have gained significant international prominence, suggesting a shift in the research focus from Asia to Europe. This transition may be attributed to changes in the incidence rates of IBD, where rapid increases were observed in Asian countries like Japan, Korea, and China until 2020, followed by stabilization or decline, while incidence rates have been increasing in European countries such as Italy and Turkey. These findings underscore the importance of expanding international collaborations to enhance the understanding of IBD. Fostering global partnerships could further advance the field, promoting more integrated and innovative research efforts, and addressing the shifting dynamics of IBD prevalence across regions.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) present a great potential for the development of new treatments in the biomedical field. To be used as therapeutics, many different sources have been used for EVs obtention, while only few studies have addressed the use of platelet derived EVs (pEVs). In fact, pEVs have been shown to intervene in different healing responses, thus some studies have evaluated their regenerative capability in wound healing or hemorrhagic shock. Even more, pEVs have proven to induce cellular differentiation, enhancing musculoskeletal or neural regeneration. However, the obtention and characterization of pEVs is widely heterogeneous and differs from the recommendations of the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles. Therefore, in this review, we aim to present the main advances in the therapeutical use of pEVs in the regenerative medicine field while highlighting the isolation and characterization steps followed. The main goal of this review is to portray the studies performed in order to enhance the translation of the pEVs research into feasible therapeutical applications.

Pharmacogenetics (PGx) aims to identify the genetic factors that determine inter-individual differences in response to drug treatment maximizing efficacy while decreasing the risk of adverse events. Estimating the prevalence of PGx variants involved in drug response, is a critical preparatory step for large-scale implementation of a personalized medicine program in a target population. Here, we profiled pharmacogenetic variation in fourteen clinically relevant genes in a representative sample set of 1,577 unrelated sequenced Sardinians -- an ancient island population that well accounts for genetic variation in Europe as a whole and, at the same time are enriched in genetic variants that are very rare elsewhere. To this end, we used PGxPOP, a PGx allele caller based on the guidelines created by the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC), to identify the main phenotypes associated with the PGx alleles most represented in Sardinians. We estimate that 99.43% of Sardinian individuals may potentially respond atypically to at least one drug, that on average each individual is expected to have an abnormal response to about 17 drugs, and that for 27 drugs the fraction of the population at risk of atypical responses to therapy is more than 40%. Finally, we highlighted 174 pharmacogenetic variants for which the minor allele frequency is at least 10% higher among Sardinians as compared to other European populations, a fact that may contribute to substantial interpopulation variability in drug response phenotypes. This study provides baseline information for further large-scale pharmacogenomic investigations in the Sardinian population and underlines the importance of the PGx characterization of diverse than European populations as Sardinians.

Fertility preservation technologies have existed for decades, and the field is rapidly advancing; limited data exist regarding the use of these technologies by transgender patients. Many options are available for transgender patients who wish to preserve fertility before transitioning. These options include the cryopreservation of gametes, ovarian tissue, or embryos. Currently, ejaculated, or testicular sperm, immature oocytes, and ovarian tissue can be preserved for later use, but no such use option exists for immature testicular tissue. Many financial, sociological, and legal barriers and a lack of awareness among physicians and patients also hindered the utilization of these fertility preservation services. While options are abundant, usage rates are relatively low. The initial data regarding the successful use of preserved tissues appears promising, with birth rates not dissimilar to non-transgender patients. Further investigations into this area are needed. In addition, counseling regarding fertility preservation options should become a significant part of the provider-patient conversation before transitioning therapies.; fertility; transgender; reproductive technology.

The development of targeted therapeutics for cancer continues to receive intense research attention as laboratories and pharmaceutical companies seek to develop drugs and technologies that improve treatment efficacy and mitigate harmful side effects. In the aftermath of World War I, it was discovered that mustard gas destroys rapidly dividing cells and could be used to treat cancer. Since then, chemotherapy has remained a predominant treatment for cancer; however, the destruction of dividing cells throughout the body yields devastating side effects including off-target damage of the digestive tract, bone marrow, skin, and reproductive tract. Furthermore, the high mutation rate of cancerous cells often renders chemotherapy ineffective long-term. Therapies with improved specificity, localization, and efficacy are redefining cancer treatment. Herein, we define and summarize the principal advancements in targeted cancer treatment and briefly comment on the march towards personalized medicine in the treatment of human cancer.

Background: Patients with bipolar disorder (BD) receive traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for unmet clinical needs with psychotropic medications. However, the clinical characteristics of practices and outcomes of TCM in BD are not fully understood. This cohort study investigated the clinical characteristics, principal diagnoses, TCM interventions, and TCM prescriptions in patients with BD. Methods: 12,113 patients with BD were withdrawn from Taiwan's longitudinal health insurance database 2000 (LHID 2000) between 1996 and 2013. Chi-squared test for categorical variables and independent t-test for continuous variables. A p-value less than 0.05 indicated significance. Results: One-thousand and three hundred nineteen patients who visited TCM clinics after the diagnosis of BD were in the TCM group, while those who never visited TCM were in the non-TCM group (N= 1,053). Compared to the non-TCM group, patients in the TCM group had younger average age, a higher percentage of female individuals, more comorbidities of anxiety and alcohol use disorders, and higher mood stabilizer usage rates. The TCM group exhibited pain-related indications, including joint pain, myalgia, myositis, headache, and sleep disturbances. Corydalis yanhusuo and Shu-Jing-Huo-Xue-Tang were the most useful single herb and herbal formulas. Conclusions: Physicians need to be aware of the use of TCM in Patients with BD.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the evolution of co-author networks in Single-Balloon Enteroscope (SBE) research from 2000 to 2023, using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection. The objective is to provide a structural overview of researcher collaborations in this specialized field, highlighting key contributors and the impact of international cooperation. Method: I conducted a co-author network analysis on 149 SBE-related articles indexed in the WoS Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. Using Python (Version 3.10.5) within the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3), I assessed macro-level indicators including network density, clustering coefficient, number of components, and average distance. Micro-level indicators such as degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality were also evaluated to understand the roles of individual researchers in the network.Result: The analysis revealed that the co-author networks in SBE research have evolved over the studied period, with varying degrees of connectivity and collaboration. From 2000 to 2009, the network showed moderate clustering but high fragmentation, with a few key researchers like Nista, Enrico C., and Spada, Cristiano playing central roles. In the 2010-2019 period, network density decreased, indicating expansion in the author pool but less frequent co-authorships. However, the clustering coefficient remained high, suggesting localized collaboration. Central figures such as Itoi, Takao emerged as influential in bridging network gaps. In the most recent period (2020-2023), network density moderately increased, reflecting improved collaboration. Key contributors included Tanisaka, Yuki, and Ryozawa, Shomei, who enhanced connectivity within the network. Despite these advancements, the network remained fragmented with isolated components throughout all periods. Conclusion: The co-author networks in SBE research have shown an overall increase in collaboration over the past two decades, with key contributors playing pivotal roles in connecting disparate groups. However, the persistent fragmentation suggests a need for more integrated efforts to enhance international collaboration. Understanding these network dynamics can inform future strategies for fostering global cooperation and advancing SBE research.

The past years saw the rise of genomic biobanks and mega-scale meta-analysis of genomic data that promise to reveal the genetic underpinnings of health and disease. However, the over-representation of Europeans in genomic studies not only limit the global understanding of disease risk and intervention efficacy, but also inhibit viable research into the genomic differences between carriers and patients. Whilst the community has agreed that more diverse samples are required, it is not enough to blindly increase diversity; the diversity must be quantified, compared, and annotated to lead to insight. Genetic annotations from separate biobanks need to be comparable, computable, operate without access to raw data due to privacy concerns. But they must be comparable, both for regular research and to allow international comparison in response to pandemics. Here, we evaluate the appropriateness of commonly used genomic tools used to depict population structure in a standardized and comparable manner. The end goal is to reduce the effects of confounding and learn from genuine variation in genetic effects on phenotypes across populations, which will improve the value of biobanks, locally and internationally, increase the accuracy of association analyses, and inform developmental efforts.

Given the long-standing debate about the nature of the concept of disease, the objective of this study was to understand how doctors categorize a condition as a disease or not and what kind of information they use. A survey with a set of clinical vignettes was designed, and a group of physicians were asked to interpret those situations as a disease or not and to motivate their choice with a short written text. Thematic analysis of the answers resulted in four themes: the temporal dimension of a disease, reification of disease, disease as an existential condition, and disease as a motivation to action. The respondents’ interpretations were very heterogeneous, supporting the idea that physicians do not share a common prototypical concept of disease. An interpretation of these results according to a critical realist and systemic approach suggested that the doctor-patient relationship is the context able to influence the interpretation of a condition as a disease or not as the final outcome of a process in which both objective, subjective, and socially mediated elements are taken into consideration.

Vaccines are an important tool of preventive medicine. Organized vaccination programs have saved numerous people from serious infectious diseases. Surprisingly, there is a considerable portion of the population who oppose vaccinations. In particular, the existence of anti-vaccination perceptions among travelers to countries with endemic diseases is a major public health concern. Although hesitancy towards vaccinations is not a novel phenomenon, it came back to the forefront during the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. This review explored the etiology of anti-vaccination beliefs among travelers and drew conclusions about their impact on public health and society in general. For this purpose, a purposeful search for data on the causative factors of vaccine hesitancy and their impact on people’s health was conducted. A descriptive analysis of the findings and conclusions about possible implications in health policy and clinical practice are presented. Fear of side effects, lack of credence in the necessity of vaccines, and mistrust of medical authorities are important causative factors. Their interplay shapes hesitancy towards vaccines. However, anti-vaccination beliefs can also be an aspect of a more general unconventional stance of life. Health care professionals and organizations must be ready to tackle vaccine hesitancy by making the necessary interventions. Correcting misconceptions about vaccinations is a prerequisite for ensuring personal and public health, especially in the context of a pandemic or epidemic. Moreover, ensuring the efficacy and safety of vaccines, especially in cases of modern technology applications, is a fundamental factor in addressing people’s concerns about vaccines. For this purpose, medical authorities and organizations must provide accurate and clear information on vaccines so as to eliminate misinformation. Furthermore, clinicians should cultivate their communication skills in order to convey the appropriate messages to prospective recipients of vaccinations.

Diabetes and mental disorders have been recognized as two significant public health concerns globally. Recent research indicates that there is a bidirectional relationship between these two conditions, with each influencing the other's course and outcomes. Nutrition plays an essential role in the prevention and treatment of both mental disorders and diabetes. A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to examine the impact of anxiety and depression on the development of diabetes and the influence of diabetes on the occurrence of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, the effects of nutrition on the prevention and management of mental disorders, diabetes, and related complications in at risk individuals were assessed. Our findings show that mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and are associated with poorer glycemic control, increased diabetes-related complications, and higher mortality rates. Conversely, diabetes is also linked with an increased risk of developing mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the comorbidity between these two conditions are complex and multifaceted. Therefore, an integrated approach to the management of both conditions is critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing the overall burden of disease. Nutritional interventions should be utilized to reduce the risk of diabetes in patients with anxiety and depression as well as enhance mental health in patients with diabetes.

Application of protocols without parameter standardization and rigorous controls has led manual therapy (MT) and other physiotherapy approaches to controversial outcomes. Thus, there is an urgency to carefully define standard protocols that elevate physiotherapy treatments to rigorous scientific demands. One way this can be achieved is by studying gene expression and additional physiological changes that associate to particular, parameter-controlled, treatments in animal models and translating this knowledge to properly design objective, quantitatively-monitored clinical trials. Here, we propose a Molecular Physiotherapy Approach (MPTA), requiring multidisciplinary teams, to uncover the scientific reasons behind the numerous reports of MT that historically attribute benefits to these treatments. The review focuses in the identification of MT-induced physiological and molecular responses that could be used for the treatment of fibromyalgia (FM) and CFS/ME. The systemic effect associated to mechanical-load responses is considered of particular relevance as it suggests that defined, low-pain areas could be selected for treatments with overall benefits, an aspect that might result essential to treat FM. Additionally, MT can provide muscle conditioning to sedentary patients without demanding strenuous physical effort, detrimental for CFS/ME patients, placing MT as a real option for integrative medicine programs to treat FM and CFS/ME.

Musculoskeletal disorders are increasingly prevalent worldwide, causing significant socioeconomic burdens and diminished quality of life. Notably, patellar chondropathy (PC) is among the most widespread conditions affecting the joint structures, resulting in profound pain and disability. Hyaluronic acid (HA) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have emerged as reliable, effective, and minimally invasive alternatives. Continuous research spanning from laboratory settings to clinical applications demonstrate the numerous advantages of both products. These encompass lubrication, anti-inflammation, and stimulation of cellular behaviors linked to proliferation, differentiation, migration, and the release of essential growth factors. Cumulatively, these benefits support the rejuvenation of bone and cartilaginous tissues, which are otherwise compromised due to the prevailing degenerative and inflammatory responses characteristic of tissue damage. While existing literature delves into the physical, mechanical, and biological facets of these products, as well as their commercial variants and distinct clinical uses, there is limited discussion on their interconnected roles. We explore basic science concepts, product variations, and clinical strategies. This comprehensive examination provides physicians with an alternative insight into the pathophysiology of PC as well as biological mechanisms stimulated by both HA and PRP that contribute to tissue restoration.

The new CFTR modulator combination, elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (Trikafta) was approved by the FDA in October 2019 for treatment of Cystic Fibrosis in patients 12 years of age or older who have at least one F508del mutation in one allele and a minimal-function or another F508del mutation in the other allele. However, there is a group of patients, in addition to those with rare mutations, in which despite the presence of a F508del in one allele, it was not possible to identify any mutation in the other allele. Today these patients are excluded from treatment with Trikafta. In Italy CF patients carrying F508del/unknown represent about 3% (156 patients) of the overall Italian CF patients. In this paper we show that the Trikafta treatment of nasal epithelial cells, derived from F508del/Unknown patients, results in a significant rescue of CFTR activity. Based on our findings, we think that the F508del/Unknown patients considered in this study could obtain clinical benefits from Trikafta treatment, and we strongly suggest their eligibility for this type of treatment.This study, adding further evidence in the literature, once again confirms the validity of functional studies on nasal cells in the cystic fibrosis theratyping and personalized medicine.

Canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is a widespread ailment among young dogs globally, characterized by high morbidity, mortality, and significant infectivity. Due to its grim prognosis, it is often likened to canine "cancer" with a medium-term mortality rate of 46.43% and late-stage mortality reaching up to 100%.Current treatment modalities primarily encompass fluid therapy, antiemetics, antimicrobial medications, pain relievers, and enteral nutrition. However, the absence of specific internationally recognized medications necessitates substantial care expenses. This review aims to elucidate recent advancements in pharmacological interventions for mitigating CPV infection symptoms, underscoring the potential of novel pharmaceutical technologies in veterinary medicine to enhance clinical outcomes for afflicted animals and their caregivers，lay a theoretical foundation for the development of specific drugs.

Genetic factors influence medication response (pharmacogenetics), affecting the pharmacody-namics and pharmacokinetics of many medicaments used in clinical care. The ability of medica-tions to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) represents a critical putative factor in the effectiveness and tolerability of various central nervous system (CNS) medications at a pharmacokinetic (dosing) level. Pharmacogenetics has the potential to personalise medicine to a greater extent than has been possible, with the potential to help reduce heuristic delays to effective tolerable pharmacotherapy. Here, we critically examine and summarise the evidence, particularly for ABCB1 polymorphisms associated with various CNS medications. These transporters appear to have a role in BBB pharmacogenetics. We identify some of the most promising variants for clinical translation while spotlighting the complexities of the involved systems and limitations of the current empirical literature.

Background: Schistosomiasis is the third most important Neglected Tropical Disease, with more than 4 million South Africans being infected. Cases of re-infection with schistosomiasis after being treated using modern medication has opened ways to seeking alternative treatment modalities using medicinal plants. This study aims to explore and understand the way traditional healers diagnose schistosomiasis, the types of traditional medicines they use to treat it in communities with a high prevalence of infection, and to establish whether the unavailability of prescribed anti-schistosomal medicines leads to the use of traditional medicine. Methods: A qualitative exploratory study was conducted using a questionnaire from December 2022 to March 2023 in the iLembe District, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. In-depth individual interviews were carried out among traditional health practitioners (THPs) involved in managing female urogenital schistosomiasis (FUS). Recorded narrative data was transcribed verbatim, read through thoroughly and coded, and analysed using thematic or content analysis Results: Traditional Health Practitioners provide services to many women who did not want to be treated in the mainstream health care system for their FUS. The disease was perceived and understood the same way by most of the respondents, that being caused by use of fresh water. Various plants species, either alone or in combination, were used to manage bilharzia in women. Senecio serratuloides (Asteraceae) and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Hypoxidaceae) were prominently used by THPs in FUS management. Conclusion: Traditional Health Practitioners are playing a key role in managing bilharzia in women in rural areas of the iLembe District, this study reported that THPs can diagnose schistosomiasis symptoms based on their knowledge and experience. Respondents indicated that modern conventional treatment was readily available and free in public sector healthcare facilities; however, they consulted patients suffering from FUS. Various traditional herbal medicines are reportedly used by THPs to manage bilharzia in women. Further studies are needed to investigate the views and experiences of clients regarding the success of the treatments used and why they seek care from THPs.

Nutraceuticals have taken the spotlight during the past two decades as evidenced by the exponential publications on them. Long a part of routine in Traditional Medicine Systems, the rise of their mainstream use globally raises both safety concerns and need for better understanding of efficacious dosing. We attempt to answer these questions in this preliminary scoping review by an analysis of current literature on nutraceutical use as a personalized or prescription medicine. Using Covidence, Rayyan, and manual searches of PubMed, 598 unique publications were selected. 32 are systematic reviews, of which we overview the scope. We also overview 30 papers that address adverse drug reactions. To obtain an unbiased landscape of the 598 papers, we analyzed keywords using multiple methods. Expectedly, the most frequent keywords were probiotics and vitamins. Unexpectedly and remarkably, among the highest keyword yield was ‘COVID’. Further exploring this aspect, we review 15 pertinent papers, that not only provide robust evidence for nutraceutical benefits as part of SARS-CoV-2 treatment, but also amplify the notion that nutraceuticals are protective. Overall, the strident note is that further robust targeted research is needed in order to reap the full benefits of nutraceuticals in a safe and efficacious manner.

The massive amount of human biological, imaging and clinical data produced by multiple and diverse sources, necessitates integrative modeling approaches able to summarize all this information into answers to specific clinical questions. In this paper, we present a hypermodeling scheme able to combine models of diverse cancer aspects regardless of their underlying method or scale. Describing tissue-scale cancer cell proliferation, biomechanical tumor growth, nutrient transport, genomic-scale aberrant cancer cell metabolism, and cell signaling pathways that regulate the cellular response to therapy, the hypermodel integrates mutation, miRNA expression, imaging, and clinical data. The constituting hypomodels as well as their orchestration and links are described. Two specific cancer types, Wilms tumor (nephroblastoma) and non-small cell lung cancer, are addressed as proof of concept study cases. Personalized simulations over the actual anatomy of a patient have been carried out. The hypermodel has also applied to predict tumor control after radiotherapy and the relationship between tumor proliferative activity and response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Our innovative hypermodel holds promise as a digital twin based clinical decision support system and the core of future in silico trial platforms, although additional retrospective adaptation and validation is necessary.

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a pervasive condition that limits quality of life and burdens economies. Traditional pharmacological treatments aimed at slowing degeneration are ineffective in the long-term. Orthobiologics, regenerative agents derived from the patient’s own tissue, are a promising emerging therapy for degenerative disc disease. This review first outlines the pathophysiology of degenerative disc disease, highlighting the limitations of existing treatments and explores the orthobiologic tools for treating degenerative disc disease (platelet-rich plasma, mesenchymal stem cells). Their history in regenerative medicine is outlined, demonstrating how in vitro evidence informed preclinical animal studies on their efficacy in treating degenerative disc disease. Finally, clinical trials utilizing these treatment options are reviewed and directions for future research are outlined. Although the current clinical evidence available is limited to propagate their routine clinical usage the field holds immense potential in the management of DDD. There is room for these treatments to be optimized for effective consistent clinical outcomes in DDD.

Aging is a complex biological process characterized by the progressive decline of physiological functions and increased vulnerability to age-related diseases. Epigenetic changes, particularly DNA methylation alterations, play a critical role in the aging process by influencing gene expression and genomic stability. This study explores the potential of epigenetic reprogramming as a strategy to reverse aging phenotypes in human fibroblasts. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and small molecule inhibitors targeting DNA methylation and histone acetylation, we successfully induced significant changes in DNA methylation and gene expression profiles. Our results demonstrate a global reduction in DNA methylation levels and the identification of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) associated with cellular senescence and DNA repair. Additionally, treated fibroblasts exhibited enhanced proliferative capacity, reduced cellular senescence, and improved differentiation potential. These findings suggest that epigenetic reprogramming could be a promising approach for regenerative medicine, offering potential therapeutic strategies to counteract age-related decline and extend healthy lifespan.

Despite the potential benefits of generative Artificial Intelligence (genAI), concerns about its psy-chological impact on medical students, especially with regard to job displacement, are apparent. This pilot study, conducted in Jordan during July–August 2024, aimed to examine the specific fears, anxieties, mistrust, and ethical concerns medical students could harbor towards genAI. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 164 medical students studying in Jordan across various academic years, employing a structured self-administered questionnaire with an internally consistent FAME scale—representing Fear, Anxiety, Mistrust, and Ethics and comprising 12 items, with three items for each construct. The results indicated variable levels of anxiety towards genAI among the participating medical students: 34.1% reported no anxiety about genAI role in their future careers (n = 56), while 41.5% were slightly anxious (n = 61), 22.0% somewhat anxious (n = 36), and 2.4% extremely anxious (n = 4). Among the FAME constructs, Mistrust was the most agreed upon (mean: 12.35±2.78), followed by Ethics construct (mean: 10.86±2.90), Fear (mean: 9.49±3.53), and Anxiety (mean: 8.91±3.68). Sex, academic level, and Grade Point Average (GPA) did not significantly affect the students’ perceptions of genAI. However, there was a notable direct association between the students’ general anxiety about genAI and elevated scores in the Fear, Anxiety, and Ethics constructs of the FAME scale. Prior exposure to genAI and its previous use did not significantly modify the scores of the FAME scale. These findings highlighted the critical need for refined educational strategies to address the integration of genAI in medical training. The results demonstrated a pervasive anxiety, fear, mistrust, and ethical concerns among medical students regarding the deployment of genAI in healthcare, indicating the necessity for curriculum modifi-cations that focus specifically on these areas. Interventions should be tailored to increase genAI familiarity and competency, which would alleviate apprehension and equip future physicians to engage with this inevitable technology effectively. The study also highlighted the importance of incorporating ethical discussions into medical courses to address mistrust and concerns about the human-centered aspects of genAI. Conclusively, the study calls for a proactive evolution of medical education to prepare students for AI-driven healthcare practices shortly to ensure that physicians are well-prepared, confident, and ethically informed in their professional interactions with genAI technologies.

The incidence of lung cancer has increased in recent years and causes major mortalities across the globe. Besides, the availability of the several chemotherapeutics modalities in the management, there is still a challenge to find out an efficient remedy with lesser or no toxic effects. Hence, there is a necessity to employ complementary research to establish effective management for lung cancer. In this study, we have implemented a novel herbal informatics model to find out the alternative remedy in the treatment of lung cancer. This model utilizes five major steps of the bioprospection process based on the classical surge followed by the binary index and rationale-based selection of herbal products targeting the cancer-causing factors which are explained in detail in the methodology section of this model. This study revealed 07 herbals such as Withania somnifera (Ws), Berberis vulgaris(Bv), Glycyrrhiza glabra(Gg), Andrographis paniculate(Ap), Azadirachta indica(Ai), Cinnamomum Verum(Cv), Piper longum(Pl) based on the fuzzy set optimization scoring(0.6-1) that could be further studied in vitro and in vivo level for utilization in the management of lung cancer.

Background: The EFLM Task Force Preparation of Labs for Emergencies (TF-PLE) created a survey that has been distributed to its members for gathering information on the key hazards experienced by European medical laboratories during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The survey was distributed to over 12,000 potential contacts (laboratory workers) via an EFLM newsletter, with responses collected between May 8 and June 8, 2023. Results: Two hundred replies were collected and examined from European laboratories. 69.7% and 78.1% of all responders said they were short on non-COVID and COVID reagents, respectively. Exactly half of respondents (50.0%) said that they could not complete all laboratory tests required for a specific period, but this figure climbed to 61.2% for COVID tests. Finally, 72.3% of respondents expressed exhaustion during the pandemic, and 61.2% reported increasing patient hostility. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on laboratory medicine in Europe. Cultural change, proactive planning, and even re-engineering in some parts of the laboratory industry may thus be necessary to prepare for future challenges.

An increasing number of persons with cancer decide to choose complementary and alternative medicine. The purpose of the paper was to check the status of the use of complementary and alternative medicine methods in oncological patients and to compare health behaviours of patients using Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) with those using neither of these methods. The studies were conducted from August till January 2020 in the Oncology Center in the south-eastern Poland. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a group of 208 oncological patients. The authors' own questionnaire and the standardized Health Behaviour Inventory were used. Most of the patients (85,09%) declared that they used complementary and alternative medicine methods. The most common methods chosen by the respondents included vitamin C, green tea and prayer. The vast majority of the respondents did not inform their oncologist about the use of CAM. 45,19% of the respondents had a high rate of health behaviours. It was observed that there was no communication related to the use of CAM among the patients and healthcare staff. Patients using CAM demonstrated more positive health behaviours than those who were not using these methods.

Abstract: MicroRNAs can interfere with a protein function by suppressing their messenger RNA translation or the synthesis of its related factors. The function of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is essential to the proper formation and function of the nervous system and is seen to be regulated by many microRNAs. However, understanding how microRNAs influence BDNF actions within cells requires a wider comprehension of their integrative regulatory mechanisms. Aim: In this literature review, we have synthesized the evidence of microRNA regulation on BDNF in cells and tissues, and provided an analytical discussion about direct and indirect mechanisms that appeared involved in BDNF regulation by microRNAs. Methods: Searches were conducted on PubMed.gov using the terms “BDNF” AND “MicroRNA” and “brain-derived neurotrophic factor” AND “MicroRNA”, updated on September 1st, 2023. Papers without open access were requested from the authors. One hundred and seventy-one papers were included for review and discussion. Results and Discussion: The local regulation of BDNF by microRNAs involves a complex interaction between a series of microRNAs with target proteins that can either inhibit or enhance BDNF expression, at the core of cell metabolism. Therefore, understanding this homeostatic balance provides resources for the future development of vector-delivery-based therapies for the neuroprotective effects of BDNF.

According to several evidence, forest environmental seems able to provide beneficial effects on functional and psychological parameters, related to cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory functions as well depression and anxiety. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a one-day forest walking in Selva di Castelfidardo (AN, Italy) on 37 participants aged 21-68, most of them living in either urban or suburban areas of large cities. We observed a statistically significant effect on sympathovagal balance by the means of heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body temperature, skin temperature, skin conductance, HRV parameters (AVNN, SDNN, rMSSD, pNN50, LF, HF, LF/HF ratio), oxygen oximetry, PEF, FEV1. A significant difference was also detected on the Perceived Stress Scale responses (19.27 pre vs 13.81 post-immersion, p=<0,05; -28,3% variation). Our data contribute to increase the body of literature about the effect of forest walking, adding data on an Italian area qualified for forest bathing.

Damaged connective tissues between the bone and tendons or ligaments are common among adults regardless of activity level. Achilles tendinosis is one of the most common tissue defects and enthesopathies. The patient in this study is a 54-year-old female with chronic Achilles tendinosis from chronic enthesopathy at the Achilles tendon insertion with a retrocalcaneal exostosis for three years who has failed standard-of-care practices for over two years. The patient received extracorporeal pulsed-activated therapy (EPAT) before applying 2ml of CryoText, a Wharton’s jelly tissue allograft. The patient then received class IV laser therapy treatments twice weekly for three weeks. The patient started with a 10/10 VAS at the initial visit. At five weeks post-application, the patient’s score had improved by 80% at 2/10 VAS. By week 13, the patient rated her pain as 0/10 VAS. The improvement in patient-reported pain and functionality reported in this study after the application of Wharton’s Jelly, EPAT, and class IV laser therapy warrants future research studying the safety and efficacy of these patient care modalities together.

The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) Smoothened (Smo) is a central signal transducer of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway which has been linked to diverse forms of tumours. Stimulated by advancements in structural and functional characterisation, the Smo receptor has been recognised as an important therapeutic target in Hh-driven cancers, and several Smo inhibitors have now been approved for cancer therapy. This receptor is also known to be an oncoprotein itself and its gain-of-function variants have been associated with skin, brain, and liver cancers. According to the COSMIC database, oncogenic mutations of Smo have been identified in various other tumours, although their oncogenic effect remains unknown in these tissues. Drug resistance is a common challenge in cancer therapies targeting Smo, and data analysis shows that healthy individuals also harbour resistance mutations. Based on the importance of Smo in cancer progression and the high incidence of resistance towards Smo inhibitors, this review suggests that detection of Smo variants through tumour profiling could lead to increased precision and improved outcomes of anti-cancer treatments.

Background/Objectives: Vascular invasion, especially extramural vascular invasion (EMVI) has emerged as prognostic parameter for rectal cancer (RC) in recent years. Prediction of reccurence and metastases development poses a significant challenge for oncologists, needing markers for prediction of adverse outcome. The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic significance of pathohistologically detected EMVI in untreated rectal cancer and its implications in separate reporting. Methods: We examined 100 untreated RC patients who underwent curative resection from January 2016 to June 2018 with follow up of 5 years. Patients were divided in equal EMVI- and EMVI+ groups based on histological re-examination of H&E stained postoperative surgical samples. Results: The presence of EMVI within the selected cohort was significantly associated with female gender, T3/T4 and N1/N2 post-operative stages, positive lymph nodes, lymph node ratio LNR2 and LNR3 groups, abundant tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, positive lympho-vascular invasion (LVI), perineural (PNI), and circumferential resection margin (CRM) (p<0.05 in all tests). Within EMVI+ patients, local recurrences and/or metastases, and death outcomes were more frequent events (p=0.029 and p=0.035, respectively), while survival analyses revealed that EMVI+ patients had significantly shorter overall survival (OS, p=0.040) and disease-free survival (DFS, p=0.028). Concerning LVI, differences in OS between LVI+ and LVI- patients were not statistically significant (p=0.068), while LVI+ patients had significantly shorter DFS (p=0.024). Moreover, univariate COX regression analysis demonstrated the negative impact of EMVI on OS (HR: 2.053, 95% CI: 1.015-4.152; p=0.045) and DFS (HR: 2.106, 95% CI: 1.066-4.870; p=0.038), which was not the case for LVI+ RC patients. Conclusions: Obtained results strongly suggest significance of separate reporting of EMVI from lympho-vascular invasion, as it is potentially a surogate marker for adverse prognosis and outcome.

We wanted to investigate the current knowledge on the impact of diet on anti-TNF response in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), to identify dietary factors that warrant further investigations in relation to anti-TNF treatment response, and, finally, to discuss potential strategies for such investigations. PubMed was searched using specified search terms. One small prospective study on diet and anti-TNF treatment in 56 patients with CD found similar remission rates after 56 weeks among 32 patients with good compliance that received concomitant enteral nutrition and 24 with poor compliance that had no dietary restrictions (78% versus 67%, p = 0.51). A meta-analysis of 295 patients found higher odds of achieving clinical remission and remaining in clinical remission among patients on combination therapy with specialised enteral nutrition and Infliximab (IFX) compared with IFX monotherapy (OR 2.73; 95% CI: 1.73–4.31, p < 0.01, OR 2.93; 95% CI: 1.66–5.17, p < 0.01, respectively). In conclusion, evidence-based knowledge on impact of diet on anti-TNF treatment response for clinical use is scarce. Here we propose a mechanism by which Western style diet high in meat and low in fibre may promote colonic inflammation and potentially impact treatment response to anti-TNF drugs. Further studies using hypothesis-driven and data-driven strategies in observational, animal and interventional studies are warranted.

The medical use of Cannabis has a very long history. Although many principles are present in cannabis, called cannabinoids, Δ9tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and can-nabinol (CBN) are the three main cannabinoids most present and described. CBD itself is not re-sponsible for psychotropic effects of cannabis since does not produce the typical behavioral effects associated to the consumption of this drug. Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently gained growing at-tention in modern society and seems to be more and more explored in dentistry. Several subjective findings suggest some therapeutic effects of CBD, which are strongly supported by research evi-dence. However, there is a plethora of data regarding CBD’s mechanism of action and therapeutic potential, which are in many cases contradictory. We will first provide an overview of scientific evidence on the molecular mechanism of CBD’s action. Furthermore, we will map the recent de-velopments regarding possible oral benefits of CBD. In summary, we will highlight CBD’s prom-ising biological features for dentistry application, despite exiting patents suggest current the compositions for oral care as the main interest for industry.

Objective: To report time-loss match injuries in Portugal’s “Divisão de Honra” (Portuguese First Tier) 2022/23 season focusing on injury incidence, injury burden, anatomical region and type of injury. Methods: A cohort prospective observational study was conducted. Data was collected through an online form sent for every team medical department categorizing player position, injury type, location and severity. Injury incidence and burden were calculated per 1000-player-match-hours. Results: The overall injury incidence was 54.4 injuries per 1000 player-match-hours (CI95% 30.3-96.2). Forwards had a higher incidence comparing to backs. Lower limbs were the most affected location (52% of the injuries). Sprain/ligaments injuries were the most common type of injury followed by muscle injuries. Discussion: The injury incidence was higher than what is reported in amateur competitions and lower than professional ones. Injury severity was similar to other studies. Our study suggests a lower injury burden compared to other semi-professional and elite leagues. Further research with broader participation and training injury data is needed.

Background: Accurate prediction of patients’ response to therapy is clinically indispensable, howbeit challenging. With increased understanding of the human genome and malignancies, there is the renaissance of in silico pharmacogenomics with renewed interest in drug response predictability based on gene-drug interaction. Objective: Evidence-based transcript-proteome profiling is essential for synthesizing clinically applicable algorithms for predicting response to anticancer therapy, including immune checkpoint blockade (ICBT); thus, saving physicians’ time, reducing polypharmacy, and curtailing unnecessary treatment expense. In this study, we tested and validated the hypothesis that a selected proteomic signature in ICBT-naïve patients is sufficient for the prediction of response to ICBT. Methods: Using a multimodal approach consisting of computational pharmacogenomics, transcript-proteome analytics, mathematical modeling, and machine learning systems; we delineated therapy-sensitivity and stratified patients into graduated response groups based on their proteomic profile. Protein expression levels in our cohort tissue specimens were evaluated based on T cell- and non-T cell- inflamed phenotypes by immunohistochemistry. Results: We established β-catenin, PDL1, CD3 and CD8 expression-based ICBT response model. Statistical regression models validated the predictive association between our predefined algorithms and therapeutic outcome. Interestingly, our 4-gene prediction classifier was constitutively independent of tumor tissue origin, correctly stratified patients into high-, low-, and non- responders pre-treatment, with high prediction accuracy, and exhibited good association with patients’ performance status and prognosis (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate the possibility of accurate proteomics based ICBT response prediction and provide a putative basis for drug response prediction based on selective proteome profile in untreated cancer patients.

In response to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) All of Us Medicine Research Initiative, the Precision Medicine Research (PreMeR) Diversity Consortium was formed by four institutions from the Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI) Translational Research Network (RTRN). This synergistic approach proposed evidence-based, best practices used by experienced researchers to engage, recruit and retain diverse populations in the All of Us initiative. Conceptualization of the proposed approach was aided by social influence theories to better understand how people’s beliefs and opinions should be modified to affect change leading to action [1]. The Social-Ecological Model (SEM), for Health Promotion [2], from Stokols [1] and Community-Based Participatory (CBPR) Models[3],[4] guided proposed engagement, recruitment, and retention strategies contextualized with the individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy spheres of influence. The PreMeR produced a partnership to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of current engagement, recruitment, and retention strategies for minority participation in scientific studies. This approach illustrates the need to incorporate multiple methods of engagement to reach a diverse audience to participate in scientific research. Engagement, recruitment, and retention strategies in community and biomedical research must be viewed as community engaged public health interventions, utilizing the same theoretical principles and approaches.

Exosomes, nanoscale extracellular vesicles, are a hot area of investigation in the biomedical field, as they have been shown to play a crucial role in the physiology of numerous tissues, including bone. This study explores the landscape of exosome-based bone regeneration research using infometric techniques. By relying on BERTopic, an advanced topic modeling algorithm, we analyzed a comprehensive corpus of scientific literature to identify key themes and trends in exosome research in the bone regeneration field. We then extracted significant concepts from the abstracts of the corpus and we used them to create knowledge graphs using GPT 3.5 turbo Large Language Model, to map the distribution of information within this domain. The resulting ide-oscape highlights the key ideas that aggregate most of the recent research in the area, from mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes to engineered exosome-integrated biomaterials. This exploration provides a holistic view of the field and uncovers its emerging trends, providing useful insight to guide future research directions.

Anxiety disorders affect patient quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to examine the associations between improved QoL and reduced clinical symptoms and Korean medicine (KM) in patients with anxiety disorders. Medical records of patients with anxiety who were treated with KM (acupuncture, Anxiety disorders affect patient quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to examine the associations between improved QoL and reduced clinical symptoms and Korean medicine (KM) in patients with anxiety disorders. Medical records of patients with anxiety who were treated with KM (ac-upuncture, psychotherapy, Chuna therapy, aromatherapy, or herbal medicine) for at least 4 weeks were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical, QoL, and cost outcomes were measured at baseline and at 4 and 12 weeks (Anxiety: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory[STAI X-1(state), X-2(trait)], Beck Anxiety Inventory[BAI]; anger: State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory State[STAXI-S(state), T(trait)], Anger Expression Inventory[AXI-K-I(anger-in), AXI-K-O(anger-out), AXI-K-C(anger-control); depression: Beck Depression Inventory-II[BDI II], QoL: QoL-related instruments Euro Quality of Life 5 Dimensions utility score[EQ-5D], Euro QoL Visual Analog Scale[EQ-VAS]). The quali-ty-adjusted life years (QALYs) and average cost-effectiveness ratio of KM for anxiety were esti-mated. The medical records for 67 patients were evaluated. KM treatments were found to be as-sociated with decreased anxiety (STAI X-1; STAI X-2; BAI, p

Abstract: Background: Our goal was to evaluate whether wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as an N95, or a surgical mask during the (COVID-19) pandemic had really reduced the cases of influenza in the state of Wisconsin. Methods: Respiratory Virus Surveillance Reports from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were used to compare the rates of Influenza during the seasons of 2018-2019 and 2020-2021. Results: The number of cases, hospitalizations, and mortality rates with Influenza had significantly decreased in the 2020-2021 season compared to the Influenza season of 2018-2019. Discussion: Reducing the burden of influenza illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths on the health care system is imperative. Wearing masks should be addressed for the most vulnerable.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare has transformed clinical practices by improving the accuracy of diagnosis, optimizing surgical procedures, improving the patient experience, and accelerating drug development. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the many applications of artificial intelligence (AI) across several industries, including fast diagnostics, where ML algorithms greatly enhance the accuracy and velocity of disease diagnosis. State-of-the-art robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgical procedures that shorten patients' hospitalization and improve their chances of recovery, cutting-edge AI applications in healthcare monitoring, and medication development. The article also looks at the primary challenges that AI in healthcare will inevitably encounter, such as differences in product quality, a shortage of skilled workers, privacy and ethical issues, and the need for improved regulatory frameworks. Despite the challenges, AI contributes significant advantages to the healthcare industry, providing novel and remarkable contributions to the efficiency of medical procedures and the progress of medical outcomes. The paper emphasizes the importance of cooperation in overcoming current challenges and enhancing the acceptability of AI technology in clinical settings. This will ensure that AI-driven innovations continue to enhance the standards of patient care.

Telemedicine has been increasingly considered an effective strategy to support patients with several diagnosis and therapies, avoiding the on-site visit and drastically reducing the risks to share infections. In the recent years, a number of different technologies have been developed and applied to clinical studies, with the aim to investigate new ways for increase the early diagnoses and monitor the clinical evolution of the most predictable diseases directly from the patients’ home. Telemedicine refers to all those technological interfaces used to remotely perform clinical procedures. Telemedicine applications could be useful in several medical fields, such as preventive medicine, home patient care, education for healthcare professionals and patients, research, public health, and health management. On the other hand, the synergy of these different technologies has a significant impact on the clinical risks analysis, particularly useful in frail patients. Although Telemedicine shows to have important advantages, undoubtedly important issues still remain. The present work aims to shed light on the main advantages and disadvantages related to of each application’s features, which may serve as a useful tool for researchers.

In ethnobotany, the availability hypothesis predicts that plants that are abundant and easily accessible to people are more likely to be medicinal than not. By protecting species diversity away from people, protected areas (PAs) may act as a limiting factor to a sustainable development of traditional knowledge concerning medicinal uses, and in so doing, PAs provide opportunity to prioritize ex-situ conservation for species that are PAs restricted. In this scenario, ex-situ conservation becomes the only chance for people to develop traditional knowledge on plants which otherwise wouldn’t be documented as traditionally useful to people. To test these expectations, we used data collected for almost 20 years of fieldworks on plant medicinal uses and their abundance inside and outside the Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa. We fitted four different scenarios of structural equation models (SEMs) to the data collected. We found that total plant abundance (abundance outside + inside KNP) is a significant positive predictor of medicinal status, and so is abundance outside KNP, thus supporting the availability hypothesis. However, not only abundance inside KNP is not a direct significant correlate of medicinal status, but also the relationship between both is negative. The lack of predictive power of inside-abundance is most likely because some species are exclusively found inside KNP, and local communities do not have access to them. It also shows that the positive and direct correlation of total abundance with medicinal status is driven by outside-abundance. In addition, the negative relationships between inside abundance and medicinal status implies that abundant plants inside KNP tend to be not-medicinal, further providing evidence that PAs hinder the development of medicinal knowledge. Furthermore, when inside and outside abundance were included simultaneously in a model as two distinct variables, inside abundance was never a direct significant predictor of medicinal status, but it was so, via an indirect path mediated by outside abundance. This suggests that outside abundance is the key variable driving the development of medicinal plant knowledge. Cumulatively, our findings suggest that anything that promotes the growth of PA-restricted plants beyond the natural realized niches of these plants (ex-situ conservation) such as in botanical gardens, private gardens, in agroforestry systems, etc., is to be promoted so that people-plant interactions may continue for the benefits of ethnobotanical knowledge development.

The modification the gut microbiota in metabolic syndrome and associated chronic diseases is among leading tasks of microbiome research and needs for clinical use of probiotics. Evidence lack for the implications for microbiome modification to improve metabolic health in particular when applied impersonalized. Probiotics have tremendous potential in personalized nutrition and medicine to develop healthy diets. The aim was to to conduct comprehensive overview of recent updates of role of microbiota on human health and development of metabolic syndrome and efficacy of microbiota modulation considering specific properties of probiotic strain and particular aspects of metabolic syndrome and patient`s phenotype to fill the gap between probiotic product and individual to facilitate development of individualized / personalized probiotic and prebiotic treatments. We discuss the relevance of using host phenotype-associated biomarkers, those based on imaging and molecular and patrient`s history, reliable and accessible to facilitate person-specific appication of probiotics and prebiotic substances. Microbiome phenotypes can be parameters of predictive medicine to recognize patient`s predispositions and evaluate treatment responses; the number of phenotype markers can be effectively involved to monitor microbiome modulation. The studied strain-dependent properties of probiotic strains are potentially relevant for individualized treatment for gut and distant sites microbiome modulation. The evidence regarding probiotic strains properties can be taken to account via pathophysiology-based approach for most effective individualized treatment via gut, oral and vaginal and other sites microbiome modulation according to phenotype of the patient providing individualized and personalized medical approaches. Preventive potential of probiotics is strong and well-documented. Recommendations for individualized clinical use of probiotics, and for probiotic studies design have been suggested.

The castor plant (Ricinus communis L.) has been known since time immemorial in traditional medicine in the pharmacopeia of Mediterranean and eastern ancient cultures. Moreover, it is still used in folk medicine worldwide. Castor bean has been mainly recommended as anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, anti-bacterial, laxative, abortifacient, for wounds, ulcers, and many other indications. Many cases of human intoxication occurred accidentally or voluntarily with the ingestion of castor seeds or derivatives. Ricinus toxicity depends on several molecules, among them the most important is ricin, a protein belonging to the family of ribosome-inactivating proteins. Ricin is the most studied of this category of proteins and it is also known to the general public, having been used for biocrimes in several cases. Here, the main steps of ricin research are reported with particular regards to its enzymatic activity, structure and cytotoxicity. Moreover, we discuss ricin toxicity for animals and humans, as well as the relation amongst bioterrorism and ricin and its impact on environmental toxicity. Ricin has also been of great utility to develop a number of immunotoxins specific for the elimination of unwanted cells, mainly cancer cells; some of these immunotoxins gave promising results also in clinical trials.

Sound evidence recognizes the microbiota as one of the major players in human health and disease, including cancer. Every human being is an holobiont, a shared human and microbial ecosystem, in which microbial composition is individually set by behaviours and environmental factors during the first years of life. Thereafter it is modulated by diet, physical activity, emotions and drugs (in particularly antibiotics and chemotherapeutics). As a consequence, a shift in medicine is needed toward a more comprehensive practice that takes into account every individual's genoma and, in addition, his or her metagenome, known as microbiome: a "microbiota revolution". As regards breast cancer (BC), a clear link between microbiota and oncogenesis is still to be confirmed. Specific microbes display unique features regulating their host niche in a number of body sites, which can result in an increased risk of cancer; in addition, gut microbiota composition plays a role in immune modulation within the intestinal barrier, affecting local and systemic inflammation, recognized drivers of cancer. Moreover, part of the bacterial gene mass inside the gut, constituting the so called “estrobolome”, influences the sexual hormonal balance and subsequentely may impact on the onset, progression and treatment of hormonal dependent cancers. Microbiota is also clearly involved in modulating the response to anticancer treatments, and above all to the emerging immunotherapy. Based on these premises, the microbiome is becoming a potential target, in order to enhance efficacy of antitumoral treatments as well as to lower their toxicity. The complex scenario that links microbiome composition to oncogenesis and response to anticancer treatments defines the frames of a new “oncobiotic” perspective.

Foot pain related to the plantar fascia is common in adults regardless of athletic background. Many pathologies can lead to the diagnosis of plantar enthesopathy, but the most relevant to this case study is related to structural defects within the plantar fascia. Due to the variety and sometimes unclear etiology of plantar fasciosis, no single standard of care treatment protocol is recognized. Often, patients receive NSAIDs, night splints, taping, physical therapy, foot orthosis, and extracorporeal shock wave therapies. This study presents Wharton Jelly (WJ) tissue allografts as an additional intervention for patients who fail standard-care treatments. WJ allografts are applied to supplement connective tissue defects directly, unlike other therapies, which aim to reduce swelling and symptomatic pain. This retrospective study includes seven patients who have previously failed standard-of-care treatment. Each received extracorporeal pulse-activated therapy (EPAT), WJ, laser therapy, and an orthotic. Patient progress was tracked using a visual analog scale, 0-10 scoring, reported by the patient at the initial visit and approximately thirteen weeks following, reporting an average improvement of 50%. The study's limitations include a small cohort size and a non-blinded retrospective design. These promising results provide evidence for a more extensive, randomized study to define dosage protocols further and confirm safety and efficacy.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) represents the most frequent cause of peripheral vertigo. In most cases it is successfully treated by canalith repositioning procedure (CRP), but it is often followed by a continuous lightheadedness in absence of vertigo or nystagmus (residual dizziness, RD). Our aim is to describe the clinical effectiveness and the urine metabolomics profile treating these patients by a polyphenol compound supplementation. We enrolled 30 patients reporting RD after BPPV successfully treated using CRP. A supplementation with a Polyphenol compound was administered for 60 days, and patients were evaluated after 30 and 60 days of treatment by a self-administered questionnaires (Visual Analog Scales for Dizziness and Nausea, Dizziness Handicap Inventory, DHI) and by urine metabolomics analysis performed by 1H-NMR spectroscopy and multivariate followed by univariate analysis. Most patients reported an excellent or good efficacy of RD with a significant decrease for VAS and DHI values. The metabolomics analysis identified six significant metabolites related to the treatment: 1-methylnicotinamide, anserine, Hippurate, lysine, methyl succinate, and urea indicating an inflammatory activities and antioxidant properties of the polyphenol compound. These preliminary data suggest that supplementation with a polyphenol compound cold induces some metabolic changes that can help recover RD. However, the future steps will require confirmation with a more significant cohort of patients and an extension of the metabolomic evaluation to other problems concerning the different clinical aspects of BPPV, such as the high relapse found in a high percentage of patients.

(1) Background: To substantiate the clinical efficacy and investigate the real-world effectiveness of the herbal medicinal product BNO 1016 in acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) in the context of antibiotic stewardship. (2) Methods: Clinical efficacy: We performed a meta-analysis of the clinical trials ARhiSi-1 and ARhiSi-2 comprising 676 patients, analysing the reduction of the Major Symptom Score (MSS) and improvement of SNOT-20. Real-world effectiveness: In addition, we performed a retrospective cohort study including 203,382 patients, comparing the real-life effectiveness of BNO 1016 in reducing ARS-related adverse outcomes in comparison to antibiotics and several other established therapies. (3) Results: Clinical efficacy: Treatment with BNO 1016 ameliorated symptoms of ARS by reducing MSS by 1.9 points (p&lt;0.0001) and improved quality of life (QoL) for patients by improving SNOT-20 by 3.5 points (p=0.001) in comparison to placebo. In patients with moderate/severe symptoms, the positive effects of BNO 1016 were even more pronounced (MSS: –2.3 points (p&lt;0.0001); SNOT-20: –4.9 points (p=0.0158)) compared to placebo. Real-world effectiveness: Treatment with BNO 1016 was as effective or significantly more effective in reducing the risk for adverse ARS-related outcomes such as follow-up antibiotic prescriptions, sick leave ≥7 days or medical appointments due to ARS, especially when compared to antibiotics. (4) Conclusions: BNO 1016 is a safe and effective treatment for ARS that can help reduce the overuse of antibiotics.