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                    <title><![CDATA[Childhood Cancer]]></title>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

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                    RSS Feed for Disease Wise Article | BenthamScience

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                    <pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 13:51:41 +0000</pubDate>

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                    <title><![CDATA[Childhood Cancer]]></title>

                    <url>https://www.benthamscience.com</url>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

                    </image><item><title><![CDATA[Pinworm (<i>Enterobius Vermicularis</i>) Infestation: An Updated Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138052</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Pinworm infestation is an important public health problem worldwide, especially among children 5 to 10 years of age in developing countries with temperate climates. The problem is often overlooked because of its mild or asymptomatic clinical manifestations. </p> <p> Objectives: The purpose of this article was to familiarize pediatricians with the diagnosis and management of pinworm infestation. </p> <p> Methods: A search was conducted in August 2023 in PubMed Clinical Queries using the key terms “Enterobius vermicularis,” OR “enterobiasis,” OR “pinworm.” The search strategy included all clinical trials, observational studies, and reviews published within the past 10 years. Only papers published in the English literature were included in this review. The information retrieved from the above search was used in the compilation of the present article. </p> <p> Results: Enterobiasis is a cosmopolitan parasitosis caused by Enterobius vermicularis. It affects approximately 30% of children worldwide and up to 60% of children in some developing countries. Predisposing factors include poor socioeconomic conditions, inadequate sanitation, poor personal hygiene, and overcrowding. Children aged 5 to 14 years have shown the highest prevalence of enterobiasis.. Egg transmission is mainly by the fecal-oral route. Approximately 30 to 40% of infested patients do not show any clinical symptoms of the disease. For symptomatic patients, the most common presenting symptom is nocturnal pruritus ani. The diagnosis of E. vermicularis infection is best established by the cellophane tape test. The sensitivity of one single test is around 50%; however, the sensitivity increases to approximately 90% with tests performed on three different mornings. If a worm is visualized in the perianal area or the stool, a pathological examination of the worm will yield a definitive diagnosis. As pinworms and eggs are not usually passed in the stool, examination of the stool is not recommended. The drugs of choice for the treatment of pinworm infestation are mebendazole (100 mg), pyrantel pamoate (11 mg/kg, maximum 1 g), and albendazole (400 mg), all of the above-mentioned drugs are given in a single dose and repeated in two weeks. Mebendazole and albendazole are both adulticidal and ovicidal, whereas pyrantel pamoate is only adulticidal. Given their safety and effectiveness, mebendazole and albendazole are currently the best available drugs for the treatment of pinworm infestation. For pregnant women, pyrantel is preferred to mebendazole and albendazole. Treatment of all household members should be considered, especially if there are multiple or repeated symptomatic infections because reinfection is common even when effective medication is given. </p> <p> Conclusion: In spite of effective treatment of pinworm infestation, recurrences are common. Recurrences are likely due to repeated cycles of reinfection (particularly, autoinfection) because of the short life span of adult pinworms. Good personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, especially after bowel movements and before meals, clipping of fingernails, avoidance of finger-sucking, nail-biting, and scratching in the anogenital area, are important preventive measures. Treatment of all household members should be considered, especially if there are multiple or repeated symptomatic infections.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Congenital Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Presentation, Etiology, Diagnosis and
Management]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139402</link><description><![CDATA[Aortic aneurysms are common in adults due to atherosclerosis but are rare in children and young adults, often overlooked due to infrequent reporting. Acquired aneurysms are usually linked to factors like umbilical artery ligation, connective tissue diseases, or vasculitides. In contrast, the causes of congenital abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) remain unknown due to their extreme rarity. Only a few cases have been reported. Prompt diagnosis is essential when symptoms such as abdominal distention, vomiting, or abdominal pulsatility occur. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through ultrasonography and multi-slice spiral computed tomography angiographies (MCSTA). After detection, a comprehensive investigation is necessary to rule out acquired AAA causes. Managing congenital AAA requires a highly personalized approach, with early surgical repair using grafts as a recommended option. After an extensive analysis of numerous academic sources, we have comprehensively understood the epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnostic and treatment techniques for congenital abdominal aortic aneurysms.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Frequency of Cancer Associated with Children and Adolescents]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132834</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: More than 175,000 new cases of cancer in children are diagnosed every year worldwide. <P> This study aimed to investigate the recorded cancer frequency in children and adolescents in Isfahan Province, Iran. <P> As one of the main reasons for death among children and adolescents is reported as cancer with different prevalence worldwide, therefore, reporting the occurrence of cancers in this population is crucial. <P> Methods: Information from the years between 2013 to 2015 related to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results; (SEER) was collected from the Isfahan Cancer Registry. The cancer sites studied were defined according to the International Classification of Diseases and recorded by related topography codes. <P> Results: Among all 30,465 registered cancers, there were 582 cases (2%) of cancer, including 57% of children and 43% of adolescents. The mean ± SD age of patients was 11.5 ± 5.9 years (Min; 1, Max 19). The top four ranked cancers were (n=264; 45%) comprised of; 1) hematopoietic and reticuloendothelial system (n= 122), 2) secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes (n=56), 3) malignant neoplasm of the brain (n=43) 4), thyroid gland (n=43). Death-reported data was associated with 32% of the total population studied. The neoplasm was reported in 174 cases, which was associated with 95% death. <P> Conclusion: This frequency source of children and adolescents cancers could be used for health strategy. The observed variations in the frequency of different cancers require continuous monitoring and investigation. Therefore, plan of health-system should focus based on greater efforts toward advanced evidence-based drug therapy in Isfahan, Iran.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Molecular Pathways and Treatment Updates on Huntington’s Disease with
Special Preference to Juvenile Phase: A Comprehensive Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139800</link><description><![CDATA[A degenerative brain ailment called Huntington's disease (HTD) causes irritable behavior, emotional distress, cognition, etc. It is also known as Huntington's chorea. Compared to men, women are more likely to get HTD. However, in India, if 3 to 5% of Europeans are affected, it is difficult to estimate the disease's prevalence. The full pathophysiological status, several molecular pathways, and pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological treatments for Huntington's disease are covered in this article. Google, PubMed, Scopus, Bentham, Elsevier, and other significant web resources were used to gather the scientific data. Moreover, this review article may serve as the foundation for future study, particularly on Huntington's illness.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Regulating miRNAs Expression by Resveratrol: Novel Insights based on
Molecular Mechanism and Strategies for Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135470</link><description><![CDATA[Resveratrol, a polyphenolic phytoalexin found in a wide range of plants, including grapes, berries, and peanuts, is an extensively researched phytochemical with unique pharmacological capabilities and amazing potential to affect many targets in various cancers. Resveratrol's anti-cancer activities are due to its targeting of a variety of cellular and molecular mechanisms and crucial processes involved in cancer pathogenesis, such as the promotion of growth arrest, stimulation of apoptosis, suppression of cell proliferation, induction of autophagy, regulating oxidative stress and inflammation, and improving the influence of some of the other chemotherapeutic agents. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that modulate gene expression by degrading mRNA or inhibiting translation. MiRNAs serve critical roles in a wide range of biological activities, and disruption of miRNA expression is strongly linked to cancer progression. Recent research has shown that resveratrol has anti-proliferative and/or pro-apoptotic properties via modulating the miRNA network, which leads to the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, the activation of apoptosis, or the increase of traditional cancer therapy effectiveness. As a result, employing resveratrol to target miRNAs will be a unique and potential anticancer approach. Here, we discuss the main advances in the modulation of miRNA expression by resveratrol, as well as the several miRNAs that may be influenced by resveratrol in different types of cancer and the significance of this natural drug as a promising strategy in cancer treatment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Arsenic Exposure and Amyloid Precursor Protein Processing: A Focus on
Alzheimer's Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135578</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Arsenic is present in above permissible safe limits in groundwater, soil, and food, in various areas of the world. This is increasing exposure to humankind and affecting health in various ways. Alternation in cognition is one among them. Epidemiological research has reflected the impact of arsenic exposure on children in the form of diminished cognition. <p> Aims: Considering this fact, the present study reviewed the impact of arsenic on amyloid precursor protein, which is known to cause one of the commonest cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. <p> Methods: The present study reviews the arsenic role in the generation of amyloid-beta from its precursor that leads to Alzheimer’s disease through the published article from Pubmed and Scopus. <p> Description: According to the findings, regular, long-term exposure to arsenic beginning in infancy changes numerous arsenic level-regulating regions in the rat brain, which are related to cognitive impairments. Arsenic also affects the BBB clearance route by increasing RAGE expression. Arsenic triggers the proamyloidogenic pathway by increasing APP expression and subsequently, its processing by β-secretase and presenilin. Arsenic also affects mitochondrial dynamics, DNA repair pathway and epigenetic changes. The mechanism behind all these changes is explained in the present review article. <p> Conclusion: A raised level of arsenic exposure affects the amyloid precursor protein, a factor for the early precipitation of Alzheimer’s disease.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[DHA and EPA in Sickle Cell Disease Favor Clinical Improvement and Contribute to Better Quality of Life: A Qualitative Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138533</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Sickle cell disease is a severe genetic disorder, and searching for therapeutic strategies is indispensable for prolonged and improved life for people affected by this condition. </p> <p> Objectives: This qualitative systematic review aimed to highlight the therapeutic potential of omega- 3 (n-3) in people with sickle cell disease. </p> <p> Methods: The search was performed by combining sickle cell disease and n-3 descriptors in DeCS/ MeSH databases, including Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library. The risk of bias assessment in the primary studies was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials. The evidence quality was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. </p> <p> Results: From the 187 records identified, seven were selected for data collection. Based on the evidence, n-3 supplementation contributes to lower activation of pro-inflammatory biomarkers, improves the concentration of docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids in the erythrocyte membrane, provides better hemostatic response, and helps in vaso-occlusive crisis, pain episodes, and hospitalization reduction. </p> <p> Conclusion: The findings suggest that n-3 adjuvant therapy favors the clinical and general aspects of people with sickle cell disease.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeted Cancer Stem Cell Therapeutics: An Update]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138096</link><description><![CDATA[Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have become a key player in the growth of tumors, the spread of cancer, and the resistance to therapeutic interventions. Targeting these elusive cell populations has the potential to fundamentally alter cancer treatment plans. CSCs, also known as tumor-initiating cells (TICs), are thought to play a role in both medication resistance and cancer recurrence. This is explained by their capacity to regenerate themselves and change into different kinds of cancer cells. Due to their higher expression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) membrane transporters, enhanced epithelial to mesenchymal (EMT) characteristics, improved immune evasion, activation of survival signaling pathways, and improved DNA repair mechanisms, CSCs exhibit extraordinary resistance to therapies. This comprehensive analysis delves into advancements in the domain of Targeted Cancer Stem Cell Therapeutics, concentrating on unraveling the distinctive traits of CSCs and the therapeutic methods devised to eliminate them.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Establishing Protocol-based Dose Metrics for Common Abdomen and Pelvis
Computed Tomography Protocols]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131993</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The majority of the existing diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) that have been established for computed tomography (CT) are based on various anatomical locations, such as the head, chest, abdomen, etc. However, DRLs are initiated to improve radiation protection by conducting a comparison of similar examinations with similar objectives. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of establishing dose baselines based on common CT protocols for patients who underwent enhanced CT abdomen and pelvis exams. <p> Methods: Dose length product total (tDLPs), volumetric CT dose index (CTDI<sub>vol</sub>), size-specific dose estimate (SSDE), effective dose (E), and scan acquisition parameters for a total of 216 adult patients, who underwent an enhanced CT abdomen and pelvis exams over a one-year period, were obtained and retrospectively analyzed. Spearman coefficient and one-way ANOVA tests were used to check significant differences between dose metrics and the different CT protocols. <p> Results: The data exhibited 9 different CT protocols to acquire an enhanced CT abdomen and pelvis exam at our institute. Out of these, 4 were found more common, i.e., CT protocols were acquired for a minimum of 10 cases. Triphasic liver demonstrated the highest mean and median tDLPs across all 4 CT protocols. Triphasic liver protocol registered the highest E followed by gastric sleeve protocol with a mean of 28.7 and 24.7 mSv, respectively. Significant differences (p < 0.0001) were found between the tDLPs of anatomical location and the CT protocol. <p> Conclusion: Evidently, wide variability exists across CT dose indices and patient dose metrics relying on anatomical-based dose baseline, i.e., DRLs. Patient dose optimizations require establishing dose baselines based on CT protocols rather than the anatomical location.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Differential Diagnosis of Generalized Cystic Lymphangiomatosis: A Literature
Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136896</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Generalized cystic lymphangiomatosis (GCL) is a rare disease characterized by the widespread proliferation of lymphatic vessels, often seen in the pediatric patient group. Imaging techniques are instrumental in revealing the extent and morphological features of the disease. <p> Objective: The objective of this study is to interpret the radiological findings of GCL and address the differential diagnosis between GCL and other lymphatic malformations in light of the relevant literature data. <p> Methods: The sample of this retrospective study consisted of six pediatric patients, four males and two females, diagnosed with GCL based on clinical, radiological, and histopathological findings between 2015 and 2022. The age of the patients at the time of diagnosis and their symptoms at admission were obtained from the hospital database. Radiological imaging findings were evaluated in detail based on the involved systems (thorax, abdomen, and musculoskeletal). <p> Results: The median age of the sample, 4/6 were male, was 9 years at admission (min. 3, max. 12). The most common symptom at admission was dyspnea, often accompanied by pleural effusion. Bone involvement was the most common extrathoracic finding. Abdominal involvement was primarily asymptomatic, and the spleen was the most frequently involved organ in the abdomen. <p> Conclusion: The diagnosis of GCL is challenging because of its rarity and overlapping diseases. Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging is a valuable tool as it reveals the typical radiological features of GCL and how far it has spread throughout the body.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Comparison of Imaging Characteristics of Gangliogliomas between
Child/Adolescent Group and Adult Group]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134299</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Ganglioglioma is a rare, slowly proliferating mixed glioneuronal tumor, with the highest incidence observed in children and young adults, but it can also occur in adults. <P> Objective: This study aimed to compare the imaging characteristics of ganglioglioma in children/adolescents and adults to facilitate radiographic diagnosis. <P> Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 32 patients were included and divided into two groups: the child/adolescent group (age &#60; 18 years, n=19) and the adult group (age ≥ 18 years, n=13). Various variables were analyzed, including maximum diameter, location, periphery, border, calcification, unenhanced CT attenuation, T1WI, T2WI/FLAIR, and DWI signal intensity, enhancement pattern, degree of enhancement, homogeneity of enhancement, solid/cystic component, peri-tumoral edema, intra-tumoral septa, peri-tumoral capsule, and intra-tumoral hemorrhage. <P> Results: Most gangliogliomas were situated in the peripheral regions, particularly in the temporal lobe. The majority exhibited hypointense/isointense signals on T1WI and hyperintense signals on T2WI/FLAIR and DWI, with predominantly heterogeneous nodular enhancement. Peri-tumoral edema was significantly less frequent in the child/adolescent group, while marked enhancement was significantly more common in the adult group. There was no significant difference in maximum diameter between the child/adolescent group and the adult group. <P> Conclusion: Peri-tumoral edema was significantly less prevalent in the child/adolescent group, whereas marked enhancement was significantly more frequent in the adult group. To ensure accurate results, a larger case series should be conducted to validate our findings.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Gastric Teratoma in an Adult Female Patient: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133884</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Gastric teratoma (GT) occurs as a rule in infancy and is an extremely unusual gastric tumor in adult patients. <p> Case Presentation: In this paper, we present the clinical and imaging findings of a 56-year-old female patient with a GT. The patient's main symptoms were increasing abdominal discomfort and pain. After the physical examination, she underwent ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT), which showed a large mass at the posterior wall of the stomach, and a teratoma was initially considered. After surgery, pathology confirmed the diagnosis of GT. The patient recovered after surgery and was discharged in good health. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first reported case of gastric teratoma in an adult woman in the literature. <p> Conclusion: Gastric teratoma of the adult period is a rare benign neoplasm that may have several complications; therefore, imaging is crucial for diagnosis and accurate treatment management. The aim of this study is to emphasize the value of US and CT in the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of mature gastric teratomas.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Complete Overview of the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome with Recent Advancement in Clinical Trial]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137430</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has emerged as one of the most common endocrine and metabolic disorders seen in women of childbearing age throughout the whole world. The complex pathophysiology, different diagnostic criteria, and various manifestations attached to several environmental factors, including lifestyle influences, have made it one of the most difficult disorders to treat in recent times. In addition, inadequate knowledge among patients and a lack of dedicated approved medications have only enhanced the difficulties in treating such a heterogeneous disorder. </p> <p> Objective: The main objective of this review-type paper is to provide a detailed overview of PCOS along with the current concept of a clinical stance in this complex multigenic disorder. </p> <p> Method : The following databases were used for literature searches: PubMed, Frontiers, Science Direct, Springer, Wiley, and MDPI. For the purpose of finding pertinent articles and contents, the keywords “PCOS; hirsutism; psychological burden; obesity” and others of a similar nature were utilized. </p> <p> Conclusion: PCOS is a complicated hormonal, metabolic, and psychological condition with many different clinical manifestations. It is among the most prevalent causes of infertility. Before considering any medication choices, lifestyle modifications should be considered the primary therapeutic prescription for PCOS-related infertility. According to recent studies, PCOS does not affect the risk of ovarian or breast cancer, but it does raise the risk of endometrial cancer in women of all ages. These results suggest that PCOS may increase the risk of gynaecological cancer morbidity. The following stage is ovulation stimulation, which is best accomplished with letrozole and is followed by clomiphene citrate. Women who had not responded to the first-line oral ovulatory medicine were given gonadotropins as a backup. Early detection of girls with a high propensity to develop PCOS will be made possible by a comprehensive knowledge of the condition's etiology. Adolescent PCOS will be better managed overall, related comorbidities will be prevented, and quality of life will increase with customized therapeutic approaches.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Review on Advances in Pediatric Endoscopy in the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137673</link><description><![CDATA[Over the past decades, an increased importance has been given to gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy in the management of children with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), considering that mucosal healing has been recognized as the optimal endpoint in the treat-to-target paradigm. The recent advances in technology and anesthesia have facilitated the comprehensive evaluation of the GI tract. In this review, we will discuss the role of ileocolonoscopy, upper GI endoscopy, and device-assisted enteroscopy in the work-up and management of pediatric Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis, with particular attention on non-invasive endoscopic techniques, such as wireless capsule endoscopy. We will also analyze the most commonly used endoscopic scoring systems, including small bowel scoring systems and endoscopic recurrence grading of neo-terminal ileum CD. Moreover, we will focus on the endoscopic management of complications, such as strictures, that commonly require surgery. Lastly, we will discuss cancer surveillance in children with IBD, with particular consideration of the role of high-definition endoscopic equipment and chromoendoscopy in dysplasia detection rates.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Late Relapse in Neuroblastoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135707</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Neuroblastoma is the most com mon extra-cranial solid tu mor in children. The survival rate of relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma is dismal. Late recurrence may occur rarely. </p> <p> Case Presentation: We have, herein, presented a case with stage IV neuroblastoma who relapsed after 11 years and had a subsequent relapse after 15 years from the initial diagnosis, and reviewed cases with late relapsed (after >5 years) neuroblastoma in the literature. The case presented with recurrent disease at the T7 vertebra after 11 years from the initial diagnosis. The patient received surgery, che motherapy, MIBG treatment, and antiGD2 combined with che motherapy, and had a further local recurrence in the paravertebral area of the re moved T7 vertebra after three years. The patient was operated, received anti-GD2 combined with che motherapy, and is still alive with no symptoms for 19 months after the last relapse. </p> <p> Conclusion: There is not a well-established treatment regimen for the majority of these patients. MIBG treatment and antiGD2 combined with che motherapy may be promising options for relapsed/ refractory neuroblastoma.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Malignant and Benign Head and Neck Tumors of the Pediatric Age: A Narrative Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137392</link><description><![CDATA[Malignant tumors of the head and neck are rare in children, but it is important to know these lesions and identify them early in order to have a good outcome for these patients. Benign lesions of the head and neck are much more frequent and have an excellent prognosis. For this reason, it is necessary to recognize the warning signs and symptoms and understand when to refer the patient to a reference center for the treatment of these pathologies. The clinical presentation of both benign and malignant lesions in children may be similar as usually, both categories have compressive effects. This confirms the fact that the clinical diagnosis is not sufficient and always requires instrumental investigations and biopsies. In this narrative review, we analyzed both malignant lesions such as lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, thyroid tumors, salivary gland tumors, neuroblastoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and benign ones such as cystic dermoid teratoma, hemangioma, juvenile angiofibroma and fibrosis dysplasia. Indeed, we set out to discuss the most common lesions of this site by evaluating their characteristics to highlight the differentiation of malignant tumors from benign lesions and their correct clinical-therapeutic management. A literature search was carried out in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify all narrative reviews addressing malignant and benign head and neck tumors of the pediatric age. In conclusion, the care of children affected by head and neck benign lesions and malignancy must be combined and multidisciplinary. It is essential to recognize the diseases early in order to differentiate and intervene as soon as possible for the correct clinical-therapeutic management.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effect of Per and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances on Pregnancy and Child Development]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137241</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Childhood obesity is significantly influenced by maternal exposure to Per and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) during pregnancy. PFAS exposure occurs through the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR-γ) receptor, leading to increased fat deposition and profound health effects in child growth and development. Despite ongoing investigations, the relationship between maternal serum PFAS concentration and child obesity requires further exploration. </p> <p> Objective: This study aimed to review the possible effects of Per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances exposure and their mechanism in overweight/obese children from pregnant ladies. </p> <p> Methods: A detailed literature survey was conducted using online databases, including Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane, and PubMed. The study focused on the diverse effects of PFAS on maternal and child health, with particular emphasis on neurological complications. </p> <p> Results: Child growth development depends upon breastfeeding and placenta health, which is disrupted by PFAS exposure, ultimately destroying the body mass index of the child. Neurotoxicity testing utilized the SH-SY5Y human-derived cell line as an <i>in vitro</i> model, revealing PFAS-induced increases in adipocyte number, reduced cell size, altered lipid conglomeration, increased adiposity, and changes in liver function. <i>in vivo</i> studies in mice and human cell lines indicated PPAR-&#947; and ER-&#945; activation, leading to adiposity and weight gain through Estrogen signaling and Lipid metabolism. PFAS concentrations positively correlated in maternal sera, analyzed by liquid chromatography/quadrupole mass spectrometry. </p> <p> Conclusion: PFAS, with a long half-life of 3.5-8.5 years, is commonly found in the serum of pregnant women, crossing the placenta barrier. This exposure disrupts placental homeostasis, negatively impacting mechanisms of action and potentially leading to deterioration in pregnancy and child health. Further research is needed to comprehensively understand the complex interplay between PFAS exposure and its implications for maternal and child well-being.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prevalence and Outcomes of Infections in Critically-ill Paediatric Oncology Patients: A Retrospective Observation Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137764</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Purpose: The survival of paediatric oncology patients has improved substantially in the past decades due to advances in the field of oncology. Modern cancer treatments often come with life-threatening complications, of which infection is one of the most common causes in this patient population. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and outcomes of common infections in haemato-oncology patients during their stay in paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and to identify any factors associated with these infections. </p> <p> Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on all children with a haemato-oncology diagnosis or who underwent haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and who were admitted to the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital PICU over a one-year period. Infection characteristics and patient outcomes were evaluated and compared between different sub-groups. Univariable and multi-variable analyses were employed to identify risk factors associated with the development of active infection. </p> <p> Results: Forty-five (36.3%) of 124 critically ill haemato-oncology admissions to PICU were associated with infections, of which 31 (25%) admissions involved bacterial infections, 26 (20.9%) involved viral infections and 6 (4.8%) involved fungal infections. Bloodstream infection was the most common type of infection. More than half (61.3%) of the bacterial infections were due to an antibiotic-resistant strain. After adjusting for confounding variables, post-HSCT status and neutropenia were significantly associated with active infections. </p> <p> Conclusion: Infections in critically-ill haemato-oncological patients are associated with post haematopoietic stem cell transplant status and neutropenia. Further study is warranted to review effective strategies that may mitigate the likelihood of infection in this patient population.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Beneficial Effects of Spirulina on Brain Health: A Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137347</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: This review provides a concise overview of existing scientific research concerning the potential advantages of incorporating spirulina, a blue-green algae, into one's diet to promote brain health. The substantial nutritional composition and associated health benefits of algae have drawn significant interest. </p> <p> Methods: Numerous studies have illuminated the neuroprotective characteristics of spirulina, contributing to its positive influence on brain functionality. Primarily, spirulina boasts antioxidants, like phycocyanin and beta-carotene, that effectively counter oxidative stress and curb inflammation within the brain. This is particularly significant as these factors play roles in the advancement of neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, spirulina has demonstrated the capacity to enhance cognitive capabilities and enrich memory and learning aptitudes. </p> <p> Results: Animal-based investigations have revealed that introducing spirulina can bolster spatial learning and memory, as well as guard against cognitive decline linked to aging. Research has indicated its potential in shielding against neurotoxins, encompassing heavy metals and specific environmental pollutants. Its potential to neutralize heavy metals and counteract free radicals contributes to these protective effects, potentially thwarting neuronal harm. </p> <p> Conclusion: In conclusion, the extant scientific literature proposes that spirulina integration can elicit advantageous outcomes for brain health. Its antioxidative, neuroprotective, cognitiveenhancing, and mood-regulating properties present a promising avenue for bolstering brain health and potentially diminishing the susceptibility to neurodegenerative ailments. Nonetheless, further research, notably well-designed human clinical trials, is imperative to ascertain the optimal dosing, duration, and enduring consequences of spirulina supplementation concerning brain health.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Smoke Points: A Crucial Factor in Cooking Oil Selection for Public Health]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136504</link><description><![CDATA[Cooking oils and fats play a significant role in our daily diet and culinary practices by enhancing flavours, textures, and nutritional value. However, overheating these fats can compromise the quality and safety of cooked foods. When oils and fats exceed their smoke points, they undergo chemical breakdown, producing volatile compounds, off-flavours, and undesirable odors, including harmful substances like small chain fatty acids, trans fats, acrylamides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. It is crucial to avoid overheating oils to mitigate the formation of these toxic substances and instead opt for those with higher smoke points for high-temperature cooking methods. The smoke point, indicating the temperature at which visible smoke is emitted, serves as a critical indicator of thermal stability and suitability for various cooking oils and fats. Therefore, understanding and considering the smoke points of different oils and fats are essential for maintaining food quality and safety in culinary practices. This review consolidates existing knowledge on the smoke points of various oils and fats and methods for determining smoke points, providing a list of fifty-one oils and fats with their respective smoke points and highlighting their applications in cooking. By considering the smoke point, chefs, cooks, and food manufacturers can select oils that optimize cooking, frying, taste, texture, flavour enhancement, salad dressings, marinades, baking, and overall safety in their culinary practices. Mindfulness of the smoke point helps prevent the degradation of nutritional value and the generation of harmful compounds during the cooking process.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Synbiotic in Gut Microbiota and Gut
Permeability in Children Affected by Air Pollution]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138204</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Air pollution has been linked with gut microbiota dysbiosis. Ingested environmental pollutants may alter gut microbiota compositions by changing the environment of the gut. Gut microbiota dysbiosis has been observed in children with asthma, linking the possible role of gut microbiota with systemic immune response and asthma. </p> <p> Methods: This paper aims to identify current science on how prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics can improve gut microbiota dysbiosis. </p> <p> Results: We reviewed the existing literature related to the role of pre-, pro-, and synbiotics in child health, and the evidence mapping method was chosen as the rapid review to identify gaps in knowledge and future research needs. </p> <p> Conclusion: In conclusion, the current evidence on the role of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics on child health, while limited, showed promising results on the allergy and immunology pathway, including infection prevention for the gastrointestinal and respiratory tract.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Metformin (The Miracle Drug) Kinetics in Different Diseases such as Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136205</link><description><![CDATA[Metformin, a miracle drug that was introduced a century ago, could be considered for various aspects of diseases such as diabetes (type 1 and 2), cancer prevention or chemotherapy, metabolic and neurodegenerative disease. It is well known that the frequency of cancer is higher in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This review aims to provide updated information regarding clinical pharmacokinetics and the mechanism of action of Metformin in different diseases such as cancer. Diabetes type 1 is another chronic autoimmune disease detected usually in early childhood due to immune-mediated devastation of insulin-producing pancreatic beta-cells. Because of the lack of effective therapeutic approaches, its prevalence is increasing. Regarding cancer, an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases and almost 10.0 million cancer deaths were reported in 2020 worldwide. By 50-60% bioavailability, the main route of metformin excretion is through urine. Its mechanism of action is based on 1) initiation of adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase, 2) block proinflammatory paths in perivascular adipose tissue, 3) decrease in monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation in vascular tissues, and 4) improvement in endothelial function. Metformin induces <i>adenosine monophosphate</i>-activated protein kinase signaling and suppresses gluconeogenesis. Antitumor properties of Metformin include a decrease in reactive oxygen species generation and inducing autophagy. In addition to glucose-lowering effects, Metformin has moderate anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. It could improve lipid profile and reduce overweight individuals' body mass and arterial blood pressure. In type 1 diabetes, Metformin reduces the requirement for daily insulin and improves glycemia. Its long-term use decreases cardiovascular events. In addition to inhibiting the synthesis of lipids via a reduction in oxidative stress, Metformin inhibits inflammation and increases energy metabolism. Finally, by reducing micro- and macro-vascular consequences, mortality-related diabetes and cancer decline by metformin administration. Therefore, in addition to diabetes, Metformin could reduce the proliferation of cancer cells and the possibility of malignancies in different types of cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Management of Pulmonary Hypertension during Pregnancy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137469</link><description><![CDATA[Pregnancy in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a high-risk condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. Patients with severe PAH are often advised against pregnancy. Still, those patients who pursue pregnancy require a dedicated and multidisciplinary approach since the progression of fetal growth will accompany significant hemodynamic changes, which can be challenging for patients with a poorly functioning right ventricle. In this article, we describe the approach to the unique cardiovascular, respiratory, hematologic, and social challenges that pregnant patients with PAH face throughout pregnancy. We discuss the impact of these physiologic changes on diagnostic studies commonly used in PAH and how to incorporate diagnostic data in making the diagnosis and risk stratifying pregnant patients with PAH. The pharmacologic challenges of pulmonary vasodilators in pregnancy are discussed as well. Pregnant patients with PAH are at particularly high risk of mortality around the time of delivery, and we discuss the multidisciplinary approach to the management of these patients, including the use of anesthesia, inotropic support, type of delivery, and postpartum care, providing clinicians with a practical approach to the management of this difficult condition.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Essential Fatty Acids along the Women’s Life Cycle and Promotion of a
Well-balanced Metabolism]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135152</link><description><![CDATA[Linoleic acid (&#969;-6 LA) and &#945;-linolenic acid (&#969;-3 ALA) are essential fatty acids (EFA) for human beings. They must be consumed through diet and then extensively metabolized, a process that plays a fundamental role in health and eventually in disease prevention. Given the numerous changes depending on age and sex, EFA metabolic adaptations require further investigations along the women’s life cycle, from onset to decline of the reproductive age. Thus, this review explains women’s life cycle stages and their involvement in diet intake, digestion and absorption, the role of microbiota, metabolism, bioavailability, and EFA fate and major metabolites. This knowledge is crucial to promoting lipid homeostasis according to female physiology through well- directed health strategies. Concerning this, the promotion of breastfeeding, nutrition, and physical activity is cardinal to counteract ALA deficiency, LA/ALA imbalance, and the release of unhealthy derivatives. These perturbations arise after menopause that compromise both lipogenic and lipolytic pathways. The close interplay of diet, age, female organism, and microbiota also plays a central role in regulating lipid metabolism. Consequently, future studies are encouraged to propose efficient interventions for each stage of women's cycle. In this sense, plant-derived foods and products are promising to be included in women’s nutrition to improve EFA metabolism.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Malnutrition: A Longstanding Challenge in India]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136591</link><description><![CDATA[According to the World Health Organization, “malnutrition is the “deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients”. Indian population has the highest rate of adolescent malnutrition. Deficiency, Illness, Small level of education, and a range of other factors contribute to India's malnutrition crisis. Undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency conditions, and overnutrition are all forms of malnutrition. A malnourished always lags in every aspect of life which will eventually affect the productivity of the country. In the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India is positioned at 111<sup>th</sup> among 125 countries, reflecting a serious level of hunger with a score of 28.7. India is grappling with a substantial population affected by anemia, malnutrition, and obesity. Other than this Indian population is also affected by several other micronutrient deficiencies. The present article provides an overview of the triple burden of malnutrition in India by applying the literature review method and the data were collected from online sources such as government survey reports, articles, and publications related to nutrition, healthcare status, healthcare indicators, nutritional indicators, and healthcare survey reports, etc. A brief introduction of the strategies followed by the Government as well as global health organisations to combat the issue is also discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Protects against Degeneration of Cone
Photoreceptors Caused by RPE65 Deficiency]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135775</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) 65 is a key enzyme in the visual cycle involved in the regeneration of 11-cis-retinal. Mutations in the human RPE65 gene cause Leber’s congenital amaurosis (LCA), a severe form of an inherited retinal disorder. Animal models carrying Rpe65 mutations develop early-onset retinal degeneration. In particular, the cones degenerate faster than the rods. To date, gene therapy has been used successfully to treat RPE65-associated retinal disorders. However, gene therapy does not completely prevent progressive retinal degeneration in patients, possibly due to the vulnerability of cones in these patients. In the present study, we tested whether leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a trophic factor, protects cones in rd12 mice harboring a nonsense mutation in Rpe65. <P> Methods: LIF was administered to rd12 mice by intravitreal microinjection. Apoptosis of retinal cells was analyzed by TUNEL assay. The degeneration of cone cells was evaluated by immunostaining of retinal sections and retinal flat-mounts. Signaling proteins regulated by LIF in the retinal and cultured cells were determined by immunoblotting. <P> Results: Intravitreal administration of LIF activated the STAT3 signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting photoreceptor apoptosis and preserving cones in rd12 mice. Niclosamide (NCL), an inhibitor of STAT3 signaling, effectively blocked STAT3 signaling and autophagy in cultured 661W cells treated with LIF. Co-administration of LIF with NCL to rd12 mice abolished the protective effect of LIF, suggesting that STAT3 signaling and autophagy mediate the protection. <P> Conclusion: LIF is a potent factor that protects cones in rd12 mice. This finding implies that LIF can be used in combination with gene therapy to achieve better therapeutic outcomes for patients with RPE65-associated LCA.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Advances in the Treatment Strategies of Friedreich’s Ataxia: A Review
of Potential Drug Candidates and their Underlying Mechanisms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139825</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA) is a rare hereditary neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive ataxia, cardiomyopathy, and diabetes. The disease is caused by a deficiency of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein involved in iron-sulfur cluster synthesis and iron metabolism. <P> Objective: This review aims to summarize recent advances in the development of treatment strategies for FRDA, with a focus on potential drug candidates and their mechanisms of action. <P> Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using various authentic scientific databases to identify studies published in the last decade that investigated potential treatment strategies for FRDA. The search terms used included “Friedreich's ataxia”, “treatment”, “drug candidates”, and “mechanisms of action”. <P> Results: To date, only one drug got approval from US-FDA in the year 2023; however, significant developments were achieved in FRDA-related research focusing on diverse therapeutic interventions that could potentially alleviate the symptoms of this disease. Several promising drug candidates have been identified for the treatment of FRDA, which target various aspects of frataxin deficiency and aim to restore frataxin levels, reduce oxidative stress, and improve mitochondrial function. Clinical trials have shown varying degrees of success, with some drugs demonstrating significant improvements in neurological function and quality of life in FRDA patients. <P> Conclusion: While there has been significant progress in the development of treatment strategies for FRDA, further research is needed to optimize these approaches and identify the most effective and safe treatment options for patients. The integration of multiple therapeutic strategies may be necessary to achieve the best outcomes in FRDA management.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Selenium Nanoparticles in Addressing Diabetic
Complications: A Comprehensive Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139455</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes, as an emerging epidemic, has put forward a significant spotlight on the evolving population worldwide grounded upon the remarkable affliction of healthcare along with economical conflict. Various studies suggested that, in modern society, lack of maintenance of a healthy life style leads to the occurrence of diabetes as insulin resistant, later having a damaging effect on the pancreatic &#946;-cells, suggesting various complications. Furthermore, diabetes management is controversial owing to different opinions based on the prevention of complications. For this purpose, nanostructured materials (NSM) like selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have proved their efficiency in the therapeutic management of such serious diseases. This review offers an in- -depth idea regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis and various conventional therapeutics of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, shedding light on Diabetic Nephropathy (DN), a case study of type 1 diabetes. Moreover, this review provides an exhaustive study by highlighting the economic and healthcare burdens associated with diabetes along with the controversies associated with conventional therapeutic management and the promising role of NSM like selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), as a novel weapon for encountering such fatal diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Involvement of Nrf2 Signaling in Lead-induced Toxicity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131984</link><description><![CDATA[Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is used as one of the main protective factors against various pathological processes, as it regulates cells resistant to oxidation. Several studies have extensively explored the relationship between environmental exposure to heavy metals, particularly lead (Pb), and the development of various human diseases. These metals have been reported to be able to, directly and indirectly, induce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cause oxidative stress in various organs. Since Nrf2 signaling is important in maintaining redox status, it has a dual role depending on the specific biological context. On the one hand, Nrf2 provides a protective mechanism against metal-induced toxicity; on the other hand, it can induce metalinduced carcinogenesis upon prolonged exposure and activation. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize the latest knowledge on the functional interrelation between toxic metals, such as Pb and Nrf2 signaling.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Skin Microbial Composition and Genetic Mutation Analysis in Precision
Medicine for Epidermolysis Bullosa]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139482</link><description><![CDATA[Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is an inherited skin disease representing a spectrum of rare genetic disorders. These conditions share the common trait that causes fragile skin, resulting in the development of blisters and erosions. The inheritance follows an autosomal pattern, and the array of clinical presentations leads to significant physical suffering, considerable morbidity, and mortality. Despite EB having no cure, effectively managing EB remains an exceptional challenge due to its rarity and complexity, occasionally casting a profound impact on the lives of affected individuals. Considering that EB management requires a multidisciplinary approach, this sometimes worsens the condition of patients with EB due to inappropriate handling. Thus, more appropriate and precise treatment management of EB is essentially needed. Advanced technology in medicine and health comes into the bioinformatics era. Including treatment for skin diseases, omics-based approaches aim to evaluate and handle better disease management and treatment. In this work, we review several approaches regarding the implementation of omics-based technology, including genetics, pathogenic mutation, skin microbiomics, and metagenomics analysis for EB. In addition, we highlight recent updates on the potential of metagenomics analysis in precision medicine for EB.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[ZNF695, A Potential Prognostic Biomarker, Correlates with Im mune
Infiltrates in Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Endoce rvical
Adenocarcinoma: Bioinformatic Analysis and Experimental Verification]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138901</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The role of Zinc Finger Protein 695 (ZNF695) is unclear in cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC). <p> Objective: The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive analysis and experimental validation of ZNF695 in CESC. <p> Methods: The study investigated the expression of ZNF695 in both pan-cancer and CESC, utilizing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to assess its diagnostic value. The present study investigated the association between ZNF695 expression levels and clinical characteristics, as well as prognosis, in patients with CESC. The study explored potential regulatory networks involving ZNF695, including its association with immune infiltration, immune score, stemness index based on mRNA expression (mRNAsi), and drug sensitivity in CESC. We explored the expression of ZNF695 in CESC single cells. ZNF695 expression was validated using GSE29570. <p> Results: ZNF695 was found to be aberrantly expressed in pan-cancer and CESC. There was a significant correlation observed between an elevated level of ZNF695 expression in patients with CESC and histological grade (p = 0.017). Furthermore, a strong association was found between high ZNF695 expression in CESC patients and poorer overall survival (OS) (HR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.17-3.00; p = 0.009), Progression-free Survival (PFS) (HR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.16-2.98; p = 0.010), and Disease-specific Survival (DSS) (HR: 1.98; 95% CI: 1.15-3.42; p = 0.014). The expression of ZNF695 in CESC patients (p = 0.006) was identified as an independent prognostic determinant. ZNF695 was associated with steroid hormone biosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, and so on. ZNF695 expression correlated with immune infiltration, immune score, and mRNAsi in CESC. ZNF695 expression significantly and negatively correlated with AICA ribonucleotide, BIX02189, QL-XI-92, STF-62247, and SNX-2112 in CESC. ZNF695 gene was upregulated in CESC tissues and cell lines. ZNF695 was significantly upregulated in the CESC cell lines. <p> Conclusion: ZNF695 may be a potential prognostic biomarker and immunotherapeutic target for CESC patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Curcuminoids as Cell Signaling Pathway Modulators: A Potential
Strategy for Cancer Prevention]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133477</link><description><![CDATA[Despite substantial advancements in curative modern medicine in the last few decades, cancer risk and casualty rates have continued to mount globally. The exact reason for cancer's onset and progression is still unknown. However, skeletal and functional abnormalities in the genetic code are assumed to be the primary cause of cancer. Many lines of evidence reported that some medicinal plants can be utilized to curb cancer cell proliferation with a safe, fruitful, and cost-efficient perspective. Curcuminoid, isolated from <i>Curcuma longa</i>, have gotten a lot of focus due to their anticancer potential as they reduce tumor progression, invasion, and dissemination. Further, they modulated signal transduction routes like MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, JAK/STAT, and Wnt/&#946;-catenin, etc., and triggered apoptosis as well as actuated autophagy in malignant cells without altering the normal cells, thus preventing cancer progression. Besides, Curcuminoid also regulate the function and expression of anti-tumor and carcinogenic miRNAs. Clinical studies also reported the therapeutic effect of Curcuminoid against various cancer through decreasing specific biomarkers like TNF-&#945;, Bcl-2, COX-2, PGE2, VEGF, I&#954;K&#946;, and various cytokines like IL-12p70, IL-10, IL-2, IFN-&#947; levels and increasing in p53 and Bax levels. Thus, in the present review, we abridged the modulation of several signal transduction routes by Curcuminoids in various malignancies, and its modulatory role in the initiation of tumor-suppressive miRNAs and suppression of the oncogenic miRNAs are explored. Additionally, various pharmacokinetic approaches have been projected to address the Curcuminoids bioavailability like the use of piperine as an adjuvant; nanotechnology- based Curcuminoids preparations utilizing Curcuminoids analogues are also discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Synthesis and Biological Activity of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138836</link><description><![CDATA[Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) belong to a structurally varied class of natural products that have garnered significant attention due to their intriguing chemical properties and broad range of biological activities. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the synthesis and biological activity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. An in-depth exploration of the various synthetic methodologies employed in the construction of these complex molecules, including classical and modern synthetic approaches, is presented in this review. Moreover, the potential therapeutic applications of these alkaloids are discussed, emphasizing their promising role in drug discovery and development. By synthesizing the current knowledge, this paper aims to facilitate further research in the field and inspire the discovery of novel bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Body Fat Distribution Contributes to Defining the Relationship between
Insulin Resistance and Obesity in Human Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133680</link><description><![CDATA[The risk for metabolic and cardiovascular complications of obesity is defined by body fat distribution rather than global adiposity. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat (including hepatic steatosis) reflects insulin resistance and predicts type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In humans, available evidence indicates that the ability to store triglycerides in the subcutaneous adipose tissue reflects enhanced insulin sensitivity. Prospective studies document an association between larger subcutaneous fat mass at baseline and reduced incidence of impaired glucose tolerance. Case-control studies reveal an association between genetic predisposition to insulin resistance and a lower amount of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorgamma (PPAR-γ) promotes subcutaneous adipocyte differentiation and subcutaneous fat deposition, improving insulin resistance and reducing visceral fat. Thiazolidinediones reproduce the effects of PPAR-γ activation and therefore increase the amount of subcutaneous fat while enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing visceral fat. Partial or virtually complete lack of adipose tissue (lipodystrophy) is associated with insulin resistance and its clinical manifestations, including essential hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, reduced HDL-c, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. Patients with Prader Willi syndrome manifest severe subcutaneous obesity without insulin resistance. The impaired ability to accumulate fat in the subcutaneous adipose tissue may be due to deficient triglyceride synthesis, inadequate formation of lipid droplets, or defective adipocyte differentiation. Lean and obese humans develop insulin resistance when the capacity to store fat in the subcutaneous adipose tissue is exhausted and deposition of triglycerides is no longer attainable at that location. Existing adipocytes become large and reflect the presence of insulin resistance.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Perspectives on Iron Deficiency as a Cause of Human Disease in
Global Public Health]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130350</link><description><![CDATA[Iron (Fe) is a necessary trace element in numerous pathways of human metabolism. Therefore, Fe deficiency is capable of causing multiple health problems. Apart from the well-known microcytic anemia, lack of Fe can cause severe psychomotor disorders in children, pregnant women, and adults in general. Iron deficiency is a global health issue, mainly caused by dietary deficiency but aggravated by inflammatory conditions. The challenges related to this deficiency need to be addressed on national and international levels. This review aims to summarize briefly the disease burden caused by Fe deficiency in the context of global public health and aspires to offer some hands-on guidelines.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Advances in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Current
and Promising Strategies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134856</link><description><![CDATA[Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an umbrella term for developmental disorders characterized by social and communication impairments, language difficulties, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. Current management approaches for ASD aim to resolve its clinical manifestations based on the type and severity of the disability. Although some medications like risperidone show potential in regulating ASD-associated symptoms, a comprehensive treatment strategy for ASD is yet to be discovered. To date, identifying appropriate therapeutic targets and treatment strategies remains challenging due to the complex pathogenesis associated with ASD. Therefore, a comprehensive approach must be tailored to target the numerous pathogenetic pathways of ASD. From currently viable and basic treatment strategies, this review explores the entire field of advancements in ASD management up to cutting-edge modern scientific research. A novel systematic and personalized treatment approach is suggested, combining the available medications and targeting each symptom accordingly. Herein, summarize and categorize the most appropriate ways of modern ASD management into three distinct categories: current, promising, and prospective strategies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Interplay of G-proteins and Serotonin in the Neuroimmunoinflammatory
Model of Chronic Stress and Depression: A Narrative Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136812</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: This narrative review addresses the clinical challenges in stress-related disorders such as depression, focusing on the interplay between neuron-specific and pro-inflammatory mechanisms at the cellular, cerebral, and systemic levels. <p> Objective: We aim to elucidate the molecular mechanisms linking chronic psychological stress with low-grade neuroinflammation in key brain regions, particularly focusing on the roles of G proteins and serotonin (5-HT) receptors. <p> Methods: This comprehensive review of the literature employs systematic, narrative, and scoping review methodologies, combined with systemic approaches to general pathology. It synthesizes current research on shared signaling pathways involved in stress responses and neuroinflammation, including calcium-dependent mechanisms, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and key transcription factors like NF-κB and p53. The review also focuses on the role of G protein-coupled neurotransmitter receptors (GPCRs) in immune and pro-inflammatory responses, with a detailed analysis of how 13 of 14 types of human 5-HT receptors contribute to depression and neuroinflammation. <p> Results: The review reveals a complex interaction between neurotransmitter signals and immunoinflammatory responses in stress-related pathologies. It highlights the role of GPCRs and canonical inflammatory mediators in influencing both pathological and physiological processes in nervous tissue. <p> Conclusion: The proposed Neuroimmunoinflammatory Stress Model (NIIS Model) suggests that proinflammatory signaling pathways, mediated by metabotropic and ionotropic neurotransmitter receptors, are crucial for maintaining neuronal homeostasis. Chronic mental stress can disrupt this balance, leading to increased pro-inflammatory states in the brain and contributing to neuropsychiatric and psychosomatic disorders, including depression. This model integrates traditional theories on depression pathogenesis, offering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of the condition.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[ARL15 and its Multiple Disease Association: Emerging Functions and
Potential Therapeutic Application]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134609</link><description><![CDATA[ARL15 is a member of the RAS superfamily of small GTPases and is associated with several metabolic traits, including increased risk of diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and lipid metabolism disorders. The ARL15 gene encodes for an uncharacterized small GTP binding protein. Its precise role in human physiology remains unknown, but several genetic association studies have recognized different variants in this gene to be statistically associated with numerous traits and complex diseases. Here, we provided the unique features of ARL15 small G protein, its association with varied metabolic and lifestyle diseases, its function in vesicular and lipid trafficking, and its binding partners. We outlined this protein as a promising and emerging therapeutic target to combat metabolic disorders like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. The review provides a comprehensive description of the current advancements in ARL15 research with a perspective that focused research will position this small GTPase as a viable target for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Decoding Artificial Intelligence in Neuroscience: Applications Beyond Diagnosis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129730</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Artificial Intelligence has witnessed exponential expansion in health care applications. The article pronounces the dynamic excellence AI is achieving in the healthcare discipline of neuroscience. <P> Objective: The paper highlights basic concepts of AI and acmes the interdisciplinary collaboration of Computational neuroscience, Cognitive science, and AI. Also, the article draws out important findings related to AI in neuroscience amongst its diverse application in the various disciplines. An ephemeral overview of applications of AI-based constructs in neurological disorders namely Neuroinflammation, Schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, Epilepsy, Autism spectrum disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, Brain tumor and Anesthesiology has been demonstrated in the present work. <P> Methods: The method includes the collection of data from different search engines like google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, etc. to get coverage of relevant literature for accumulating appropriate information regarding AI, neuroscience, and their linkages. <P> Results: These considerations are made to expand the existing literature on the progressing role of AI in the management of neurological disorders. <P> Conclusion: The exponential expansion in the development of AI-based systems might aid in addressing the prevailing limitations in the domain of neurological disorders and neuroscience.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Systematic
Review on Pathways and Mechanisms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127433</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are types of disorders that are marked by a wide range of genetic and clinical mutability which will affect the development and function of the brain. Mitochondria are increasingly associated with various neurodevelopmental disorders and it is found because of mutation of mitochondrial genes, which leads to mitochondrial dysfunction. <p> Objective: Understanding the pathways and mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction related to neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, Pelizaeus- Merzbacher Disease (PMD), mental retardation, Autism spectrum disorder, Rett's syndrome, and Fragile X syndrome is important. In this review, we discussed the possible factors associated with mitochondria that influence the clinical presentation of NDDs, better understanding of the mechanisms behind these pathways will hopefully be helpful for the diagnosis and treatment approaches. <p> Conclusion: Mitochondria are simply another subcellular victim of various neurodegenerative pathways, or are they a common denominator on the path to neurodegeneration? A better understanding of functional and molecular mechanistic pathways can lead to the identification of potential targets, thereby opening perspectives for future treatment.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Differential Signaling Pathways in Medulloblastoma: Nano-biomedicine Targeting
Non-coding Epigenetics to Improve Current and Future Therapeutics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136814</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Medulloblastomas (MDB) are malignant, aggressive brain tumors that primarily affect children. The survival rate for children under 14 is approximately 72%, while for ages 15 to 39, it is around 78%. A growing body of evidence suggests that dysregulation of signaling mechanisms and noncoding RNA epigenetics play a pivotal role in this disease. <p> Methodology: This study conducted an electronic search of articles on websites like PubMed and Google. The current review also used an <i>in silico</i> databases search and bioinformatics analysis and an extensive comprehensive literature search for original research articles and review articles as well as retrieval of current and future medications in clinical trials. <p> Results: This study indicates that several signaling pathways, such as sonic hedgehog, WNT/&#946;-catenin, unfolded protein response mediated ER stress, notch, neurotrophins and TGF-&#946; and ERK, MAPK, and ERK play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of MDB. Gene and ncRNA/protein are also involved as an axis long ncRNA to sponge micro-RNAs that affect downstream signal proteins expression and translation affection disease pathophysiology, prognosis and present potential target hit for drug repurposing. Current treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy; unfortunately, the disease often relapses, and the survival rate is less than 5%. Therefore, there is a need to develop more effective treatments to combat recurrence and improve survival rates. <p> Conclusion: This review describes various MDB disease hallmarks, including the signaling mechanisms involved in pathophysiology, related-causal genes, epigenetics, downstream genes/epigenes, and possibly the causal disease genes/non-protein coding (nc)RNA/protein axis. Additionally, the challenges associated with MDB treatment are discussed, along with how they are being addressed using nano-technology and nano-biomedicine, with a listing of possible treatment options and future potential treatment modalities.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Enamel Hypoplasia as a Marker for Sex Estimation: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/122470</link><description><![CDATA[Changes in enamel during teeth development are permanently recorded, and some, like enamel hypoplasia (EH), can be linked with stressful events. As males and females may respond differently to stress, EH may have a different prevalence between the sexes. The present work mainly aims to identify which factors may lead to the different EH types, analyse how they manifest between sexes, and check if, in the presence of EH, one can infer about a person’s sex. Our results point to occasional differences in EH prevalence in deciduous dentition between sexes, with males displaying more EH. As for permanent dentition, EH prevalence appears to be strongly associated with the living conditions, namely nutrition, occluding any possible sex bias. Therefore, EH in deciduous teeth can be useful for sex estimation; yet, in permanent dentition, other factors may be responsible for the differences and more studies, with control of environmental factors (for example, twin studies) are needed to understand if sex differences exist as well.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Localized Delivery of Bioactives using Structured Liposomal Gels]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136147</link><description><![CDATA[Liposomes have gained a lot of interest for drug delivery applications, and some of these preparations have been commercialized. These are formulated with biocompatible components and can be used for delivering a wide range of payloads differing in aqueous solubility and molecular weight. Liposome-based delivery approaches are limited mainly by two factors: (a) poor dispersion stability, and (b) pre-mature leakage of payloads. In this review, we have discussed the stabilization of liposomal vesicles by their entrapment in hydrogels. Studies reveal that such hydrogels can maintain the structural integrity of liposomes. Release of liposomes from the hydrogel network can be modulated through careful screening of matrix former and degree of its cross-linking. Accordingly, we have reviewed the approaches of stabilizing liposomal vesicles through entrapment in hydrogels. Application of liposome-embedded hydrogels has been reviewed in context of localized drug delivery. Our discussion is focussed on the delivery of bioactives to the skin. Such an approach appears alluring from the standpoint of minimizing the undesirable distribution of payload(s) the systemic circulation and off-target sites.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Dosage Recommendation of Cyclosporin in Children with Hemophagocytic
Lymphohistiocytosis based on Population Pharmacokinetic Model]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136488</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objectives: Cyclosporin is one of the therapeutic regimens for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH); however, the optimal dosage of cyclosporine in children with HLH is unknown. It has been found that piperacillin-tazobactam affects the cyclosporine pharmacokinetic process in pediatric HLH patients. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to recommend cyclosporin dosage for pediatric HLH with and without piperacillin- tazobactam. <p> Methods: A previously established cyclosporine population pharmacokinetic model for pediatric HLH patients has been used in this study to recommend optimal dosage based on Monte Carlo simulation. The pediatric HLH patients have been included in eight weight groups (5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 kg) for sixteen dosages (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 mg/kg), split into one dose or two doses. <p> Results: The optimal cyclosporin dosages for children having HLH without piperacillin-tazobactam have been found to be 15, 13, 12, 11, 10, and 9 mg/kg, split into two doses for weights of 5-7, 7-10, 10-20, 20-28, 28-45, and 45-70 kg, respectively. For children with HLH, optimal cyclosporin dosages with piperacillin-tazobactam have been found to be 8 and 7 mg/kg, split into two doses for weights of 5-20 and 20-70 kg, respectively. <p> Conclusion: It is the first time that the cyclosporin dosage regimens for HLH in children have been developed based on Monte Carlo simulation, and the initial dosage optimizations of cyclosporine in pediatric HLH patients have been recommended.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Finding Integrative Medication for Neuroblastoma and Glioblastoma
through Zebrafish as A Model of Organism]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135158</link><description><![CDATA[As far as malignant tumors of the central nervous system are concerned, glioblastoma (GB) and neuroblastoma (NB) are the most prevalent, aggressive, and fatal forms in adult and pediatric populations, respectively. NB is the most prominent childhood extracranial compact neoplasm in pediatrics when the embryo develops from undifferentiated neural crest cells. Regarding malignant primary brain tumors, GB is the most lethal and difficult to treat. Currently, there are few effective treatments available for either condition. Research using zebrafish is relatively new in the field of animal cancer studies, and the first results show promise. In particular, integrated genomic investigations of NB and GB have revealed the potential of the zebrafish model in elucidating the roles of specific genetic changes in the development of this fatal childhood malignancy. Hence, this study examines the possibility of zebrafish as a model organism for discovering integrative medicines for these types of cancer. This model is an excellent animal model for study due to its transparency, ease of genetic modification, ethics and financial benefits, and preservation of the primary brain areas andbloodbrain barrier (BBB). This review provides recent developments in the zebrafish model of NB and GB to illustrate the benefits of using them in cancer studies as a model of the organism. This approach provides novel insights into delivering individualized treatment and enhancing outcomes for people coping with central nervous system malignancies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[LncRNA-mediated Modulation of Endothelial Cells: Novel Progress
in the Pathogenesis of Coronary Atherosclerotic Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129436</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary atherosclerotic disease (CAD) is a common cardiovascular disease and an important cause of death. Moreover, endothelial cells (ECs) injury is an early pathophysiological feature of CAD, and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) can modulate gene expression. Recent studies have shown that lncRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of CAD, especially by regulating ECs. In this review, we summarize the novel progress of lncRNA-modulated ECs in the pathogenesis of CAD, including ECs proliferation, migration, adhesion, angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and pyroptosis. Thus, as lncRNAs regulate ECs in CAD, lncRNAs will provide ideal and novel targets for the diagnosis and drug therapy of CAD.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Advancement in Nanobiotechnology for Human Health Care: Focus on Ocular Diseases and Future Prospects]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133919</link><description><![CDATA[Nanotechnology involves the study of different materials on the nanometer scale, typically less than 100 nm in size. Nanomedicine is the creation of nanotechnology, a new science and technology area. Similarly, various nanomaterials, such as nanostructure, nanotubes, and nanoparticles, were also found to have significant applications in the human biological system at the molecular level to achieve healthcare advantage. Nanotechnology is rapidly expanding in the field of medicine with a special emphasis on ophthalmology. Nanotechnology advancements need to be translated into a new and exciting platform for diagnosis, treatment, and therapeutics for ocular disease. The application of nanotechnology in ocular disease and cancer, such as nanoparticle-based drug delivery system, drug development, gene therapy, and tissue engineering, helps overcome many ocular problems. In particular, one of the most important applications of the emerging nanoscience system is used in ocular cancer diagnosis and therapy with the help of carbon nanotubes, nanocrystals, nanowires, etc. Several approaches have been developed for treatment and therapy for ocular disease. Moreover, these tremendous approaches have been safely used and effective for a broad range of applications. In this study, the focus is to discuss recent findings and various constraints and summarize the applications of nanotechnology-mediated systems for treating various ocular diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Review on Shikonin and its Derivatives as Potent Anticancer
Agents Targeted against Topoisomerases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129356</link><description><![CDATA[The topoisomerases (TOPO) play indispensable roles in DNA metabolism, by regulating the topological state of DNA. Topoisomerase I and II are the well-established drug-targets for the development of anticancer agents and antibiotics. These drugs-targeting enzymes have been used to establish the relationship between drug-stimulated DNA cleavable complex formation and cytotoxicity. Some anticancer drugs (such as camptothecin, anthracyclines, mitoxantrone) are also widely used as Topo I and Topo II inhibitors, but the poor water solubility, myeloma suppression, dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, and multidrug resistance (MDR) limited their prolong use as therapeutics. Also, most of these agents displayed selective inhibition only against Topo I or II. In recent years, researchers focus on the design and synthesis of the dual Topo I and II inhibitors, or the discovery of the dual Topo I and II inhibitors from natural products. Shikonin (a natural compound with anthraquinone skeleton, isolated from the roots of <i>Lithospermum erythrorhizon</i>) has drawn much attention due to its wide spectrum of anticancer activities, especially due to its dual Topo inhibitive performance, and without the adverse side effects, and different kinds of shikonin derivatives have been synthesized as TOPO inhibitors for the development of anticancer agents. In this review, the progress of the shikonin and its derivatives together with their anticancer activities, anticancer mechanism, and their structure-activity relationship (SAR) was comprehensively summarized by searching the CNKI, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Epigenetic Effects of Psychoactive Drugs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132783</link><description><![CDATA[Currently, and globally, we are facing the worst epidemic of psychoactive drug abuse resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives annually. Besides alcohol and opioid use and misuse, there has been an increase in illicit abuse of psychostimulants. Epigenetics is a relatively novel area of research that studies heritable alterations in gene expression. Long-term administration of psychoactive drugs may lead to transcriptional changes in brain regions related to drug-seeking behaviors and rewards that can be passed down transgenerationally. Epigenetic biomarkers such as DNA methylation and histone modifications contribute to disease diagnoses. This review aims to look at the epigenetic modifications brought forth by psychoactive drug abuse.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pyrazine Moiety: Recent Developments in Cancer Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133678</link><description><![CDATA[Cancer is becoming more common worldwide, impacting the vast majority of people. As a result, new anticancer drugs are currently being created, and their safety is still being assessed. Pyrazine-based medications are a substantial contribution, as they are one of the most important pharmacophores found in heterocyclic compounds both synthetically and naturally. It's a six-membered aromatic heterocycle with two nitrogen atoms with a wide range of therapeutic applications in drug development and numerous prospects for future enhancement in anticancer drugs by targeting several critical receptors. A number of pyrazine compounds have been shown to inhibit enzymes, receptors, and a range of additional cancer-fighting targets. Researchers are currently focused on the creation of pyrazine-based novel derivatives for cancer treatment in combination with other moieties. As a result, this review illuminates the recent therapeutic expansion of pyrazine-based drugs, as well as their synthetic schemes, tabulated detailed clinical trial drugs, marketed drugs with their primary target, and a list of recently patented and published research papers, all of which will help scientists build successful medications with the appropriate pharmacological activity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Different Medicinal Herbs in Treatment of Polycystic Ovary
Syndrome: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131372</link><description><![CDATA[Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS/PCOD) indicates a common, multifactorial endocrine condition marked by polycystic ovaries, chronic anovulation, and hyperandrogenism, resulting in asymmetric menstrual periods, hirsutism, acne, and infertility. Standard treatment for PCOS is often accompanied by adverse effects, and is ineffective in certain situations, refutation-based medical guidance accented an integrative progress. Furthermore, women suffering from PCOS may benefit from alternative treatments. Herbal treatment includes herbs that have a phytoestrogenic and non-estrogenic nature, including Mentha spicata, Panax ginseng, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Aloe barbadensis, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Matricaria chamomilla, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Linum usitatissimum, and Zingiber officinale, which are effective and safe. This review focuses on the reproductive endocrine effects of phytomedicine as a choice treatment so as to PCOD and accompanying oligo/amenorrhoea, acne, hirsutism, and infertility.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Parental Perceptions and Concerns Related to the Consequences of
Pediatric Obesity: Feeling or Real Problem?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124060</link><description><![CDATA[Lifestyle modifications (i.e., nutrition and physical activity) remain the main tools in the context of childhood obesity’s treatment and prevention of short and long-term consequences. At the same time, parental perception of child weight represents an even more important tool. It is known that more than half of parents of overweight/obese children underestimate their child’s weight status or are not worried about the risks associated with childhood overweight/obesity. Consequently, parental perception of childhood obesity can often be erroneous, and, even when accurate, subsequent parental behaviors can inadvertently contribute to the onset or persistence of childhood and adult obesity. Starting from the evidence that targeting a parent to induce a behavioral change is more effective than targeting the child only without parental participation, parental perceptions of childhood obesity can therefore represent a very important tool to take into consideration to achieve improvements in the context of childhood obesity. Therefore, knowledge of parental perception of children's weight status is needed to help pediatricians to organize and adapt activities and programs that promote healthy weight management among children. Specifically, early assessments of parents' perceptions of a child's weight, followed by regular follow-up visits, appropriate feedback, continuing education efforts, and efforts to follow the child’s weight status over time, can be potentially very helpful.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Research Status, Synthesis and Clinical Application of Antiepileptic Drugs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128897</link><description><![CDATA[According to the 2017 ILAE's official definition, epilepsy is a slow brain disease state characterized by recurrent episodes. Due to information released by ILAE in 2017, it can be divided into four types, including focal epilepsy, generalized epilepsy, combined generalized, and focal epilepsy, and unknown epilepsy. Since 1989, 24 new antiepileptic drugs have been approved to treat different types of epilepsy. Besides, there are a variety of antiepileptic medications under clinical monitoring. These novel antiepileptic drugs have plenty of advantages. Over the past 33 years, there have been many antiepileptic drugs on the mearket, but no one has been found that can completely cure epilepsy. In this paper, the mentioned drugs were classified according to their targets, and the essential information, and clinical studies of each drug were described. The structure-activity relationship of different chemical structures was summarized. This paper provides help for the follow-up research on epilepsy drugs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The DNMT3B Inhibitor Nanaomycin A as a Neuroblastoma Therapeutic
Agent]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131971</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Neuroblastoma is one of the most common childhood solid tumors. Because tumor suppressor genes are often hypermethylated in cancers, DNA methylation has emerged as a target for cancer therapeutics. Nanaomycin A, an inhibitor of DNA methyltransferase 3B, which mediates <i>de novo</i> DNA methylation, reportedly induces death in several types of human cancer cells. </p><p> Objective: To study the antitumor activity of nanaomycin A against neuroblastoma cell lines and its mechanism. <p> Methods: The anti-tumor effect of nanaomycin A on neuroblastoma cell lines was evaluated based on cell viability, DNA methylation levels, apoptosis-related protein expression, and neuronal-associated mRNA expression. <p> Results: Nanaomycin A decreased genomic DNA methylation levels and induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma cells. Nanaomycin A also upregulated the expression of mRNAs for several genes related to neuronal maturation. <p> Conclusions: Nanaomycin A is an effective therapeutic candidate for treating neuroblastoma. Our findings also suggest that the inhibition of DNA methylation is a promising anti-tumor therapy strategy for neuroblastoma.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[From Basics of Coordination Chemistry to Understanding Cisplatin-analogue Pt
Drugs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133473</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cisplatin, a platinum complex discovered by Rosenberg in 1969, has long been known as the first metal-based anticancer agent. Since then, various similar derivatives of cisplatin have been investigated for pharmacological activity, and the approved complexes have been applied as drugs. <p> Objectives: The aims of the current study are: 1) to summarize the advantages and dose-limiting effects of the approved and unapproved chemotherapy platinum cytostatics, 2) to develop new strategies for the development of platinum anticancer drugs, and 3) to clarify the important factors for the mechanism of action of platinum complexes. <p> Methods: A search was conducted in the literature databases, and the obtained information was summarized and analyzed. <p> Results: Myelosuppression is the main dose-limiting effect and the reason for the disapproval of platinum complexes, such as picoplatin, enloplatin, miboplatin, sebriplatin, zeniplatin, spiroplatin, iproplatin, and ormaplatin. From the basic point of view of inorganic coordination chemistry, such as theoretical calculations, crystal structures of model complexes, docking structures with nucleic acid molecules, spectroscopy, and biological aspects, the importance of physicochemical properties of inorganic platinum complexes for their mechanism of action has been indicated. Spectroscopic methods, such as FTIR, NMR, X-ray crystal structure analysis, and fluorescence microscopy, are important for the investigation of the conformational changes in the binding of platinum complexes and DNA. <p> Conclusion: In the development of platinum complexes, strong anti-cancer drug activity, low toxicity, and resistance can be obtained by the application of polynuclear platinum agents, complexes with targeted activity, and nanoparticle formulations. Electronic structure, stereochemical, and thermodynamic properties are essential for understanding the reaction mechanism of platinum complexes.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cardiotoxicity of Targeted Therapies in Children with Haematological Malignancies
and Solid Tumors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132095</link><description><![CDATA[Cardiotoxicity represents an important acute or chronic adverse event of treatment modalities for childhood cancer. In the last two decades the emergence of novel cancer therapies has aimed to increase unaided or mostly in combination with conventional chemotherapy for the survival rates of pediatric cancer especially for those patients with relapsed and/or refractory disease. The use of emerging targeted therapies in combination with conventional chemotherapy is related to cardiovascular adverse events mostly reported in adults. The aim of our short review was to investigate the cardiotoxic side effects of targeted chemotherapeutic agents as monoclonal antibodies and small molecules in pediatric cancer patients.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Anti-obesity Properties of Phytochemicals: Highlighting their Molecular
Mechanisms against Obesity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131872</link><description><![CDATA[Obesity is a complex, chronic and inflammatory disease that affects more than one-third of the world’s population, leading to a higher incidence of diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and some types of cancer. Several phytochemicals are used as flavoring and aromatic compounds, also exerting many benefits for public health. This study aims to summarize and scrutinize the beneficial effects of the most important phytochemicals against obesity. Systematic research of the current international literature was carried out in the most accurate scientific databases, e.g., Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, using a set of critical and representative keywords, such as phytochemicals, obesity, metabolism, metabolic syndrome, etc. Several studies unraveled the potential positive effects of phytochemicals such as berberine, carvacrol, curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, thymol, etc., against obesity and metabolic disorders. Mechanisms of action include inhibition of adipocyte differentiation, browning of the white adipose tissue, inhibition of enzymes such as lipase and amylase, suppression of inflammation, improvement of the gut microbiota, and downregulation of obesity-inducing genes. In conclusion, multiple bioactive compounds-phytochemicals exert many beneficial effects against obesity. Future molecular and clinical studies must be performed to unravel the multiple molecular mechanisms and anti-obesity activities of these naturally occurring bioactive compounds.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploration of Computational Aids for Effective Drug Designing and
Management of Viral Diseases: A Comprehensive Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129217</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Microbial diseases, specifically originating from viruses are the major cause of human mortality all over the world. The current COVID-19 pandemic is a case in point, where the dynamics of the viral-human interactions are still not completely understood, making its treatment a case of trial and error. Scientists are struggling to devise a strategy to contain the pandemic for over a year and this brings to light the lack of understanding of how the virus grows and multiplies in the human body. <p> Methods: This paper presents the perspective of the authors on the applicability of computational tools for deep learning and understanding of host-microbe interaction, disease progression and management, drug resistance and immune modulation through in silico methodologies which can aid in effective and selective drug development. The paper has summarized advances in the last five years. The studies published and indexed in leading databases have been included in the review. <p> Results: Computational systems biology works on an interface of biology and mathematics and intends to unravel the complex mechanisms between the biological systems and the inter and intra species dynamics using computational tools, and high-throughput technologies developed on algorithms, networks and complex connections to simulate cellular biological processes. <p> Conclusion: Computational strategies and modelling integrate and prioritize microbial-host interactions and may predict the conditions in which the fine-tuning attenuates. These microbial-host interactions and working mechanisms are important from the aspect of effective drug designing and fine- tuning the therapeutic interventions.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Wilms Tumor and Consanguinity: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130389</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Wilms tumor, the second most common malignancy in childhood, is associated with hypertension in half the cases, but associated consanguinity rarely comes across, and no direct association between the incidence of nephroblastoma and consanguinity has been noted in current literature. <P> Case Presentation: We present a rare case of Wilms tumor in a patient with consanguineous parents. The patient is a 4-year-old female that presented with colicky abdominal pain associated with an abdominal mass, fever over one month and hypertension. There were no congenital anomalies or urinary symptoms. Both parents are first-degree relatives. The patient underwent surgery, and histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of Wilms tumor. The postoperative course was uneventful, and chemotherapeutic treatment was initiated. <P> Conclusion: The findings in our case highlight a possible causal relationship between Wilms Tumor and consanguinity. There is little published about this, and Wilms&#039;s relative risk in consanguineous marriage is unknown. This relationship warrants further research.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Food Color Additives in Hazardous Consequences of Human Health: An Overview]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128887</link><description><![CDATA[Food color additives are used to make food more appetizing. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permitted nine artificial colorings in foods, drugs, and cosmetics, whereas the European Union (EU) approved five artificial colors (E-104, 122, 124, 131, and 142) for food. However, these synthetic coloring materials raise various health hazards. The present review aimed to summarize the toxic effects of these coloring food additives on the brain, liver, kidney, lungs, urinary bladder, and thyroid gland. In this respect, we aimed to highlight the scientific evidence and the crucial need to assess potential health hazards of all colors used in food on human and nonhuman biota for better scrutiny. Blue 1 causes kidney tumor in mice, and there is evidence of death due to ingestion through a feeding tube. Blue 2 and Citrus Red 2 cause brain and urinary bladder tumors, respectively, whereas other coloring additives may cause different types of cancers and numerous adverse health effects. In light of this, this review focuses on the different possible adverse health effects caused by these food coloring additives, and possible ways to mitigate or avoid the damage they may cause. We hope that the data collected from in vitro or in vivo studies and from clinical investigations related to the possible health hazards of food color additives will be helpful to both researchers and the food industry in the future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Review of Current and Prospective Treatments for Channelopathies, with a Focus on Gene and Protein Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132215</link><description><![CDATA[Reduced cell surface expression or the malfunctioning of ion channels gives rise to a group of disorders known as channelopathies. To treat the underlying cause, the delivery and/or expression of a functional ion channel into the cell membrane of the cell of interest is required. Unfortunately, for most channelopathies, current treatment options are only symptomatic and treatments that rectify the underlying damage are still lacking. Within this context, approaches that rely on gene and protein therapy are required. Gene therapy would allow the expression of a functional protein, provided that the cellular machinery in the diseased cell could correctly fold and traffic the protein to the cell membrane. Whereas protein therapy would allow the direct delivery of a functional protein, provided that the purification process does not affect protein function and a suitable delivery vehicle for targeted delivery is used. In this review, we provide an overview of channelopathies and available symptomatic treatments. The current state of gene therapy approaches mainly using viral vectors is discussed, which is followed by the role of nanomedicine in protein therapy and how nanomedicine could be exploited for the delivery of functional ion channels to diseased cells.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Significance of Beta-Blocker in Patients with Hypertensive Left Ventricular
Hypertrophy and Myocardial Ischemia]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129214</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Arterial Hypertension (HTN) is a key risk factor for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and a cause of ischemic heart disease (IHD). The association between myocardial ischemia and HTN LVH is strong because myocardial ischemia can occur in HTN LVH even in the absence of significant stenoses of epicardial coronary arteries. </p><p> Objective: To analyze pathophysiological characteristics/co-morbidities precipitating myocardial ischemia in patients with HTN LVH and provide a rationale for recommending beta-blockers (BBs) to prevent/treat ischemia in LVH. </p><p> Methods: We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, PubMed, Elsevier, Springer Verlag, and Google Scholar for review articles and guidelines on hypertension from 01/01/2000 until 01/05/2022. The search was limited to publications written in English. </p><p> Results: HTN LVH worsens ischemia in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Even without obstructive CAD, several pathophysiological mechanisms in HTN LVH can lead to myocardial ischemia. In the same guidelines that recommend BBs for patients with HTN and CAD, we could not find a single recommendation for BBs in patients with HTN LVH but without proven CAD. There are several reasons for the proposal of using some BBs to control ischemia in patients with HTN and LVH (even in the absence of obstructive CAD). </p><p> Conclusion: Some BBs ought to be considered to prevent/treat ischemia in patients with HTN LVH (even in the absence of obstructive CAD). Furthermore, LVH and ischemic events are important causes of ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and sudden cardiac death; these events are another reason for recommending certain BBs for HTN LVH.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Combating Childhood Cancer: Paediatric Patients Living with Neuroblastoma
- Regulatory Ramifications and Roadblocks]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128114</link><description><![CDATA[This paper relates to Neuroblastoma (NBL), a rare, solid cancer affecting children and aims to describe regulatory obligations to adhere to during development, marketing authorisation application (MAA) and post-authorisation stage. The focus is on European Union (EU) paediatric legislation, although essential US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) elements are briefly outlined. Practical regulatory aspects and reporting requirements, players in the therapeutic area as well as clinical management are described. The feasibility and limitations of future harmonised clinical development are pointed out.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Clinical Application and Synthesis Methods of Deuterated Drugs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127749</link><description><![CDATA[Many drugs have adverse absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretory (ADME) properties that prevent their widespread use or limit their use in some indications. In addition to preparation techniques and prodrug strategies, deuterium modification is a viable method for improving ADME properties. Deuterated drugs have attracted increasing attention from the pharmaceutical industry in recent years. To date, two deuterated drugs have been approved by the FDA. In 2017, austedo was approved by the FDA as a new drug for Huntington's disease in the United States, the first deuterium drug to be marketed worldwide. Recently (June 9, 2021), donafinil has been listed in China; this result has caused major pharmaceutical companies and the pharmaceutical industry to pay attention to deuterium technology again. In addition, BMS-986165, RT001, ALK-001, HC-1119, AVP-786 and other drugs are in phase III clinical studies, and some solid deuterium compounds have entered phase I and II clinical trials. The deuterium strategy has been widely used in pharmaceutical research and has become a hot spot in pharmaceutical research in recent years. In this paper, the research and development of deuterated drugs are reviewed, and the influence of deuterium modification on drugs, the advantages of deuterium strategies and the synthesis strategies of deuterated drugs are mainly introduced. Hoping to provide references for clinical application, the discovery of new deuterium chemical entities and research and development of new deuterated drugs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Thyroid Function: A Target for Endocrine Disruptors, Air Pollution and
Radiofrequencies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117794</link><description><![CDATA[Thyroid diseases, including congenital hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, and childhood thyrotoxicosis, are progressively increasing. The incidence of thyroid cancer in children and adolescents has also increased in recent decades, mirroring the trends observed in adults. These epidemiologic trends develop in parallel with the rising costs associated with diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases. Both genetic and environmental factors are involved in these diseases, and a number of widely diffused toxic chemicals of anthropogenic origin can impair thyroid function and make thyroid cancer worse. Synthetic substances persistently contaminate environmental matrices (i.e., air, soil, water) and the food chain and bio-accumulate in humans, starting from in utero life. Environmental toxins such as air pollutants, endocrine disruptors, and high-frequency electromagnetic fields can act on common targets through common pathways, combined mechanisms, and with trans-generational effects, all of which contribute to thyroid damage. Both experimental and epidemiologic observations show that mechanisms of damage include: modulation of synthesis; transportation and metabolism of thyroid hormones; direct interference with hormone receptors: modulation of gene expression; and autoimmunity. We should not underestimate the available evidence linking environmental pollutants with thyroid disease, cancer included, since toxic substances increasingly diffuse and thyroid hormones play a key role in maintaining systemic metabolic homeostasis during body development. Thus, primary prevention measures are urgently needed in particular to protect children, the most exposed and vulnerable subjects.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Erianin as a Promising Novel Agent in the Treatment of Neuroblastoma: The Anticancer
Effects and Underlying Molecular Mechanisms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129849</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Erianin is an active dibenzyl compound isolated from Dendrobium officinale and Dendrobium chrysotoxum and there are very few studies on molecular mechanisms and drug targets of erianin. In addition, there is no study investigating the anti-cancer effect of erianin on neuroblastoma cells. </p><p> Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate the anticancer effect of erianin and the underlying mechanism of this effect on SH-SY5Y cells. </p><p> Methods: The effects of erianin on cell viability, invasion and migration were determined by XTT, matrigel chamber and wound healing evaluation, respectively. Expression changes of miRNAs (microRNA) and apoptosis-related genes were evaluated by RT-PCR, and the apoptosis rate was supported by Annexin V evaluation. </p><p> Results: Erianin significantly decreased cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Erianin administration caused apoptosis by significantly increasing <i>caspase-7</i>, FADD (Fas-associated protein with death domain), <i>BID</i> (BH3 Interacting Domain Death Agonist) and <i>DR5</i> (Death receptor 5) gene expressions. While the rate of total apoptotic cells was 45.35 ± 6.80% in SH-SY5Y cells treated with erianin, it was 0.133 ± 0.05% in the control group (p = 0.000). In addition, erianin administration significantly decreased the expressions of hsa-miR-155-5p (p = 0.014) and hsa-miR-223-3p (p = 0.004). Also, our study demonstrated for the first time the relationship between erianin and mi-RNAs in a cancer cell. </p><p> Conclusion: Our study suggests that erianin may be a natural, safe and easily accessible drug candidate that can be used in the treatment of neuroblastoma.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Caracasine, An <i>ent</i>-kaurane Diterpene with Proapoptotic and Pro-differentiator Activity in Human Leukaemia Cell Lines]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/122591</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Kaurane-type diterpenoids, obtained from various natural sources, have shown many biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects. Caracasine, an <i>ent</i>-kaurane diterpenoid isolated from the flowers of <i>Croton micans</i>, was shown to induce apoptosis in leukaemia cell lines. </p><p> Objective: The present study aimed to ascertain the compound’s mechanism of cell death induction using two leukaemia cell lines, Jurkat E6.1 (T cell) and HL-60 (promyeloblast cells). </p><p> Methods: Cell death in Jurkat and HL60 cells were evaluated by flow cytometry for apoptosis with annexin-V/PI, mitochondrial membrane potential disturbance, changes in cell cycle, CD95 expression, caspase activation, Nuclear Factor kappa B inhibition, and differentiation into a neutrophil-like cell (dHL60). </p><p> Results: Caracasine (10 μM) increased the G0/G1 phase in Jurkat and arrested the cell cycle in the S phase in HL60. Caracasine increased CD95 expression (<i>p</i><0.01 in Jurkat and <i>p</i><0.05 in HL60) and caspase-8 activation (<i>p</i><0.001 in Jurkat and p<0.05 in HL60). Caspase-9 was activated in both cell lines (<i>p</i><0.001) along with the decline in mitochondrial &#916;&#968;m (<i>p</i><0.05 in Jurkat and p<0.001 in HL60). In HL60 cells, the kaurane induced neutrophil differentiation was assessed by CD40 expression and reactive oxygen species production. In Jurkat cells, caracasine inhibited the NF-&#954;B pathway in cells pretreated with PHA to activate the NF-&#954;B pathway, suggesting a possible role in inflammatory diseases. </p><p> Conclusion: Caracasine induced apoptosis through the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways in both cell lines were evaluated which could be the leading structure for new anti-leukemic and anti-inflammatory drugs.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Key Roles of Makorin RING Finger Protein 3 (MKRN3) During
the Development of Pubertal Initiation and Central Precocious
Puberty (CPP)]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124773</link><description><![CDATA[Puberty is initiated from the continuous and growing pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in the hypothalamus and then the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Numerous factors involve pubertal initiation, whose abnormality may come from the dysfunction of these regulators. Makorin RING finger protein 3 (MKRN3) inhibits the secretion of GnRH and plays indispensable roles during the development of pubertal onset, and mutations of MKRN3 showed the commonest genetic cause of central precocious puberty (CPP). Recently, growing studies have revealed the functional mechanisms of MKRN3 in the pubertal initiation and the occurrence of CPP. In this review, we mainly summarized the research advances on the roles of MKRN3 in the development of pubertal onset and their underpinning mechanisms, contributing to a better understanding of the precise mechanisms of pubertal initiation and the pathogenesis of CPP.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cancer Stem Cells and Chemoresistance in Ewing Sarcoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124800</link><description><![CDATA[Resistance to chemotherapy poses a major challenge for cancer treatment. Reactivating a stem cell program resembling that seen in embryonic development can lead cancer cells to acquire a stem-cell phenotype characterized by expression of stemness genes, pluripotency, high self-renewal ability, and tumor-initiating capability. These cancer stem cells (CSCs) are usually resistant to anticancer drugs and are likely involved in treatment failure in many cancer types. Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a pediatric cancer type typically resulting from a typical genetic alteration affecting bone or soft tissues. Despite advances in treatment, survival prognostic remains poor for patients with refractory or recurrent disease. Here, we review the increasing evidence indicating that ES tumors contain a CSC subpopulation expressing stem cell genes, including BM1, OCT3/4, NANOG, and SOX2, that plays a role in resistance to drug treatment, and current experimental strategies that successfully counteract chemoresistance mediated by CSCs in ES.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Stem Cell Therapy in Combination with Naturopathy: Current Progressive
Management of Diabetes and Associated Complications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127964</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder having a global prevalence of nearly doubled over the last 30 years and has become one of the major health concerns worldwide. The number of adults with diabetes increased to 537 million in 2021. <p> Introduction: The overarching goal of diabetic research and treatment has always been to restore insulin independence and an average blood glucose level. Chemotherapeutic antidiabetic agents can manage diabetes but often show toxicity and drug resistance. Natural phytomedicines may be useful along with stem cell therapy for diabetes management. Even if the whole pancreatic organ and islet transplantation, are becoming benchmark techniques for diabetes management and control, a considerable scarcity of eligible donors of pancreatic tissues and organs severely limits their use. Stem cell treatment provides a bunch of possibilities for treating people with diabetes. <p> Methods: For this purpose, comprehensive article searching was conducted, with relevant material obtained using search engines such as Scopus, PubMed, MEDLINE, Google, and others, using appropriate keywords. <p> Results: Stem cell therapies, including induced pluripotent stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells, are now becoming a popular area of investigation. Recent advancements in stem cell therapy might provide a feasible treatment option. Furthermore, in recent years, some novel bioactive compounds derived from plants have demonstrated antidiabetic action with higher potency than oral hypoglycaemic medications. Recent regenerative medicine and stem cell treatment advancements might subsequently provide a feasible diabetic management option. On the other hand, medicinal herbs have been considered a better choice for the extensive treatment of diabetes. <p> Conclusion: If proper attention is not given to control diabetes by antidiabetic chemotherapeutic agents, natural phytomedicine, and sophisticated treatment like stem cell therapy, then the lifespan of patients will be decreased, and some associated secondary problems will also arise. So, the present review attempts to discuss naturopathy as an alternative resource in combination with stem cell therapy for the progressive management of diabetes and associated disorders.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Advances on Epigenetic Drugs for Pediatric Brain Tumors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126529</link><description><![CDATA[Pediatric malignant brain tumors represent the most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths in childhood. The therapeutic scheme of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy has improved patient management, but with minimal progress in patients’ prognosis. Emerging molecular targets and mechanisms have revealed novel approaches for pediatric brain tumor therapy, enabling personalized medical treatment. Advances in the field of epigenetic research and their interplay with genetic changes have enriched our knowledge of the molecular heterogeneity of these neoplasms and have revealed important genes that affect crucial signaling pathways involved in tumor progression. The great potential of epigenetic therapy lies mainly in the widespread location and the reversibility of epigenetic alterations, proposing a wide range of targeting options, including the possible combination of chemoand immunotherapy, significantly increasing their efficacy. Epigenetic drugs, including inhibitors of DNA methyltransferases, histone deacetylases and demethylases, are currently being tested in clinical trials on pediatric brain tumors. Additional novel epigenetic drugs include protein and enzyme inhibitors that modulate epigenetic modification pathways, such as Bromodomain and Extraterminal (BET) proteins, Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9 (CDK9), AXL, Facilitates Chromatin Transcription (FACT), BMI1, and CREB Binding Protein (CBP) inhibitors, which can be used either as standalone or in combination with current treatment approaches. In this review, we discuss recent progress on epigenetic drugs that could possibly be used against the most common malignant tumors of childhood, such as medulloblastomas, high-grade gliomas and ependymomas.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Advances: From Cell Biology to Cell Therapy in Atherosclerosis
Plaque <i>via</i> Stent Implantation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127267</link><description><![CDATA[Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial result of complicated pathophysiology. Changes in the expression of polygenes, coupled with environmental and lifestyle factors, trigger a cascade of adverse events involving a variety of cell types, such as vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages. In this review, we summarize the function and therapeutic targets of atherosclerotic cells. This article reviews the role of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, macrophages and foam cells in the development of atherosclerosis and the progress in the treatment of atherosclerosis by targeting these cells. Atherosclerotic plaque involves a variety of cells and biomolecules, and its complex biological environment is a difficult point for the study and treatment of atherosclerosis. For treating atherosclerosis, a large number of studies emerged based on blocking or inhibiting factors affecting the formation and development of plaque. Cardiovascular stent intervention is currently the main method for the treatment of atherosclerosis. In recent decades, numerous studies on cardiovascular, stents mainly involve drug coating or biomolecular modification of stents to enhance anti-thrombosis, anti-restenosis and endothelialization. This paper introduces the research status of cardiovascular stents and new strategies for surface modification. The treatment of atherosclerosis based on the level of molecular biology and cell biology is becoming a research hotspot in the coming decades.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of HLA-DPrs3077 and HLA-DQrs3920 Polymorphisms as Risk
Factors for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127524</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic disease caused by the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic β-cells. During disease progression, inflammatory insulitis increases the presentation of islet antigens on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules to T lymphocytes. This complex system plays a pivotal role in cellular immunity. Thus, genetic variability in HLA can affect the susceptibility to and clinical outcomes of DM. <p> Aim: This case-control study aimed to assess the role of HLA-DP-rs3077 (A/G) and HLA-DQrs3920 (A/G) polymorphism in T1DM. <p> Subjects and Methods: This study enrolled 400 individuals: 200 patients with T1DM and 200 ageand sex-matched healthy controls. Hemoglobin A1C and random, fasting, and postprandial blood sugar levels were determined for all subjects. Genotypic and allelic distributions of HLA-DPrs3077 (A/G) and HLA-DQrs3920 (A/G) SNPs were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). <p> Results: Frequency of the HLA-DPrs3077A allele was high among the diabetic group (91.3%); however, the difference was non-significant [OR (95% C.I) = 1.422(0.89-2.252), P=0.098]. The frequency of the HLA-DQrs3920 GG genotype was higher in control than the diabetic group (52.5% vs.12%), whereas that of the AA genotype was higher in the person with diabetes than in the control group (34% vs.4%). Individuals carrying the HLA-DQrs3920A allele were 4.5 times more likely to have T1DM than those carrying the G allele [OR (95% C.I) = 4.510 (3.338- 6.094), P<0.001*]. The presence of HLA-DPrs3077A and HLA-DQ rs3920A in the same person increases T1DM risk by 3.6 times that of G allele [OR (95%C.I) = 3.608(2.173-5.991), P<0.001*]. <p> Conclusion: HLA-DPrs3077 and HLA-DQrs3920 SNPs have a role in T1DM as the coexistence of HLA-DPrs3077A and HLA-DQrs3920A alleles increases the risk.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Involvement of Metabolites and Non-coding RNAs in Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126461</link><description><![CDATA[Non-coding RNAs have a role in gene regulation and cellular metabolism control. Metabolism produces metabolites which are small molecules formed during the metabolic process. So far, a direct relationship between metabolites and genes is not fully established; however, pseudogenes and their progenitor genes regulate health and disease states. Other non-coding RNAs also contribute to this regulation at different cellular processes. Accumulation and depletion of metabolites accompany the dynamic equilibrium of health and disease state. In this study, metabolites, their roles in the cell, and the link between metabolites and non-coding RNAs are discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127692</link><description><![CDATA[Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common liver disease in the paediatric age. The growing prevalence of NAFLD and its advanced phenotype, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), in children and adolescents parallels similar trends in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. This trend may have serious long-term implications, including hepatic and extra-hepatic morbidity and mortality, the latter being related mostly due to cardiovascular disease and malignancies. This narrative review, which included 236 articles, summarizes current evidence on paediatric NAFLD, including pathophysiology, risk factors, complications, prevention and treatment (existing and emerging). Early recognition of NAFLD followed by timely and adequate management seems to be important on an individual basis. A global “call to action” regarding paediatric NAFLD seems appropriate to mitigate the burden of this disease.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effects of Exercise on Vascular Toxicity Associated with Breast Cancer
Treatment: A Narrative Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128500</link><description><![CDATA[Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and its incidence is linearly associated with age. The development of cancer treatments has changed the prognosis of this disease. Despite effective treatments, cardiovascular complications in middle-aged and older women have become challenging. Physical exercise is a powerful tool to prevent senescence symptoms and diseases, besides being an essential component for cardiovascular diseases and cancer prevention and treatment. The present narrative review considers the vascular dysfunction associated with breast cancer treatment, specifically chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and the effects of exercise on vascular toxicity. We also explored the mechanisms involved in these responses. The search strategy involved three databases (Pubmed, Scielo, and Web of Science) with the following descriptors: breast cancer, vascular toxicity, physical exercise, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The evidence showed that breast cancer patients, especially those under chemotherapy and over 50 years old, have a potential risk of developing vascular dysfunction, which may persist in the long term. Decreases in nitric oxide bioavailability and increases in oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines might mediate the chemotherapy and radiotherapy- induced vascular dysfunction. Exercise seems to be a promising strategy for managing this risk. However, there is a need for well-constructed studies evaluating vascular toxicity in breast cancer, especially in middle-aged and elderly patients, to establish whether exercise is beneficial.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Small Molecules have Great Benefits. The Arising of microRNA in Life
Sciences and Medicine]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129319</link><description><![CDATA[]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nutraceuticals in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: How
the Panorama has Changed in the Last Decade?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/123004</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), mainly Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), are recurrent idiopathic non-infectious chronic diseases widely diffused worldwide and characterized by moderate to severe mucosal damage. <p> Objective: This study aims to review the literature of the last 10 years to photograph preclinical and clinical data on the use of nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment, combined with the conventional drugs, of IBD. <p> Method: PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov were used to search for the most recent publications on in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence on IBD and nutraceuticals, which were then assessed based on the originality and scientific rigor of the studies. <p> Results: In the last decade, the interest in new healthy or therapeutic complementary or alternative approaches to conventional drugs in IBD has grown inexorably, as well as the incidence of these pathologies and the knowledge of their etiopathogenesis. In this context, a growing development of new nutraceutical products with a consequent increase in pre-clinical studies has been observed. However, this panorama does not yet translate into adequate clinical studies that can effectively endorse what was observed in pre-clinical studies; many of them are mostly aimed at resolving diseases related to IBD rather than IBD itself. <p> Conclusion: Despite the promising pre-clinical data about nutraceuticals and IBD, we are still very far from being able to postulate an adequate nutraceutical treatment of these pathologies and further studies are necessary to support this hypothesis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[<i>Citrus</i> Flavonoids and Autoimmune Diseases: A Systematic Review of
Clinical Studies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124884</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Autoimmune diseases are chronic disorders in which the immune system does not recognize and attacks one self’s healthy components. In this context, although natural remedies might represent a promising therapeutic strategy, evidence regarding Citrus flavonoids is still controversial. <p> Objective: To summarize and critically discuss the clinical evidence on the effects of Citrus flavonoids on managing autoimmune diseases. <p> Method: A systematic review of articles has been carried out independently by two authors using MEDLINE, Scopus and ISI Web of Science databases. Search terms comprised keywords related to Citrus flavonoids and autoimmune diseases. The last search was performed on the 16th of March, 2021. No language restrictions were applied. Systematic review and study selection were conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Before starting the review, the authors defined the types of articles to be included. Three reviewers independently carried out the extraction of papers. <p> Results: Ten clinical studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the final review. <p> Conclusion: The studies discussed in this review are heterogeneous. Indeed, some studies suggest using Citrus flavonoids in the frame of autoimmune disorders, whereas others discourage it. Hence, this systematic review highlights the need for further large-scale clinical studies to define the exact role of Citrus flavonoids in managing autoimmune diseases (PROSPERO number CRD42021234903).</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Combination Therapy of Chemotherapy or Radiotherapy and the
Neurokinin-1 Receptor Antagonist Aprepitant: A New Antitumor
Strategy?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125436</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Although chemotherapy is predominantly used for cancer treatment, it can be ineffective and can induce serious side effects and lead to chemoresistance. It is essential to discover novel drugs that can enhance the antitumor activity and at the same time, counteract the severe side effects, of chemotherapy. The substance P (SP)/neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1R) interaction system is known to play a key role in the pathogenesis of cancer. Studies with NK-1R antagonists (such as aprepitant) denote that the NK-1R is a potential target for the treatment of cancer. Aprepitant combined with major chemotherapeutic drugs has shown the potential to increase antitumor activity and decrease side effects. <p> Objective: Since malignant tumor cancer cells overexpress the NK-1R, this combination therapy is a promising approach for the treatment of all kinds of cancer. Since aprepitant shows potential of being a broad-antitumor drug, the repurposing of this NK-1R antagonist as an antitumor agent is warranted. Studies pertaining to combination therapy of aprepitant/radiotherapy will also be outlined in this review. The aim of this review is to provide an update on combinational studies pertaining to chemotherapy/radiotherapy and NK-1R antagonist in cancer. <p> Conclusion: This combination strategy once confirmed, might open the door to a new era in chemotherapy and radiotherapy with greater antitumor activity and fewer side effects. This treatment strategy could possibly translate into higher cure rates, better quality of life and fewer sequelae in cancer patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Anaphylaxis in Risky Populations]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128076</link><description><![CDATA[Anaphylaxis should be clinically diagnosed with immediate recognition, whereas, despite advances in the field of allergy, the symptoms of anaphylaxis remain to be under-recognized, diagnosis is often missed, and treatment is often delayed. Anaphylaxis presents with symptoms in a spectrum of severity, ranging from mild objective breathing problems to circulatory shock and/or collapse. Indeed, anaphylaxis management frequently relies on a ‘one-size-fits-all approach’ rather than a precision medicine care model, despite the evidence that anaphylaxis is a heterogeneous condition with differences in causative agents, clinical presentation, and host susceptibility. The key important risk factors for severe anaphylaxis and mortality are certain age groups or certain stages of life (infants, elderly and pregnant women), augmenting factors (physical exercise, alcohol consumption, menstruation, acute infections), concurrent use of some medications (beta-adrenergic blockers (&#946;-blockers) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and concomitant diseases (i.e. asthma, cardiovascular disease, mastocytosis). The present review aims to collectively address the patient groups who are at high risk of having anaphylaxis, those who have a more severe course, those that are difficult to diagnose, and require a special approach in treatment. Therefore, the risky populations like the elderly, pregnant women, patients receiving &#946;- blockers or ACE inhibitors, those with concomitant cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and mastocytosis, or those having higher baseline serum tryptase levels are discussed, including their clinical presentations and treatment strategies. Additionally, anaphylaxis during the perioperative period is addressed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Novel Biomarkers for Posterior Urethral Valve]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125301</link><description><![CDATA[The posterior urethral valve (PUV) is one of the main causes of congenital obstruction of the lower urinary tract in pediatrics. Its occurrence, although rare, can cause chronic kidney disease (CKD), with frequent progression to end stage kidney disease. Therefore, the development of new diagnostic strategies, such as biomarkers, is crucial to better assess the prognosis of patients with PUV. We aimed to review the literature on traditional and new biomarkers in PUV. For that, searches were performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and SciELO databases. To systematize the search, terms such as “Posterior Urethral Valve”, “Prognosis”, “Biomarkers” and variations described in the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) database were used. The literature showed new biomarkers of disease prognosis, with emphasis on inflammatory cytokines, proteomics and genomics techniques, as well as classic biomarkers, focusing on serum creatinine and urine osmolality. As for biomarkers recently described in the literature, the 12PUV, a set of 12 fetal urinary peptides that accurately predicted postnatal kidney function in fetuses with PUV, stands out. Similarly, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines and components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), when increased, were indicative of severe kidney outcomes. Genetic alterations also correlated to worse prognosis among patients with PUV, with emphasis on RAS polymorphisms and, specifically, those affecting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and the angiotensin II receptors types 1 and 2 (AGTR1 and AGTR2) genes. Considering the severity of the PUV condition, the identification of sensitive and cost-effective biomarkers, beyond improving diagnosis, may favor the investigation of new therapeutic strategies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Bronchiectasis Among Adult First Nations Indigenous People - A Scoping
Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128222</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Among First Nations adults living in OECD nations bronchiectasis appears at a particularly heightened rate, due to high childhood incidence, and high prevalence of associated risk factors. To date, however, the extent of the bronchiectasis disease burden among adult First Nations people has not been formally assessed. <p> Methods: Two databases (Pubmed and Scopus) were reviewed for English literature published from January 2000 to March 2022 pertaining to bronchiectasis among adult First Nations indigenous people residing in OECD nations. All studies that reported on prevalence, incidence, or outcomes (i.e., hospitalisations, mortality) directly associated with bronchiectasis were included. Studies that did not provide indigenous specific, bronchiectasis specific data, or were paediatric studies were excluded. Participant numbers and demographics, bronchiectasis prevalence or incidence, respiratory comorbidities and outcomes including mortality, hospitalisations or univariate or multivariate modelling to describe the risk of bronchiectasis and outcomes were tabulated. <p> Results: Twenty-five studies were included, drawn from Australia (n=16), New Zealand (n=7) and North America (n=1), with most studies (n=21) reporting on referred populations. A median number of participants was 241 (range 31 to 1765) (excluding nationwide hospitalisation datasets (n=3)) with a mean age of 48.4 years, and 55% females. The hospital admission rate for bronchiectasis was 3.5x to 5x higher among Māori compared to non-Māori New Zealanders, and 5x higher in indigenous compared to non-indigenous Australians. Mortality ranged from 10 to 56% on follow-up. <p> Conclusion: Bronchiectasis disease burden is higher among adult First Nations indigenous populations, presenting earlier with high mortality and hospitalisation rate. Further studies are required to address this inequality.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cryptosporidiosis in Yellow Nail Syndrome – A Rare Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126443</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Cryptosporidium species infection causes malabsorption and severe diarrhea in immunocompromised hosts. Association of Yellow Nail Syndrome (YNS) and Cryptosporidiosis is rare and has not been reported till date. Immunity can also be affected in this case of YNS is associated with autoimmune disorders. <P> Case Presentation: Here, we describe a case of persistent diarrhea in an 8 month old YNS patient. Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining and Saffranine-Methylene blue revealed oocyts of Cryptosporidium species. Following appropriate treatment, the patient’s symptoms improved and the patient was discharged in a hemodynamically stable condition. <P> Discussion: Cryptosporidiosis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. YNS per se as well as treatment including steroids leads to immunosuppression in individuals making them susceptible host for opportunistic infections like Cryptosporidiosis. <P> Conclusion: Clinicians should be aware of the condition and screen for Cryptosporidiosis in any immunocompromised patients with diarrheal symptoms, as parasitic infection like this are opportunistic in them.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Sodium Valproate Modulates the Methylation Status of Lysine Residues 4,
9 and 27 in Histone H3 of HeLa Cells]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/121612</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Valproic acid/sodium valproate (VPA), a well-known anti-epileptic agent, inhibits histone deacetylases, induces histone hyperacetylation, promotes DNA demethylation, and affects the histone methylation status in some cell models. Histone methylation profiles have been described as potential markers for cervical cancer prognosis. However, histone methylation markers that can be studied in a cervical cancer cell line, like HeLa cells, have not been investigated following treatment with VPA. <p> Methods: In this study, the effect of 0.5 mM and 2.0 mM VPA for 24 h on H3K4me2/me3, H3K9me/me2 and H3K27me/me3 signals as well as on KMT2D, EZH2, and KDM3A gene expression was investigated using confocal microscopy, Western blotting, and RT-PCR. Histone methylation changes were also investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). <p> Results: We found that VPA induces increased levels of H3K4me2/me3 and H3K9me, which are indicative of chromatin activation. Particularly, H3K4me2 markers appeared intensified close to the nuclear periphery, which may suggest their implication in increased transcriptional memory. The abundance of H3K4me2/me3 in the presence of VPA was associated with increased methyltransferase KMT2D gene expression. VPA induced hypomethylation of H3K9me2, which is associated with gene silencing, and concomitant with the demethylase KDM3A, it increased gene expression. Although VPA induces increased H3K27me/me3 levels, it is suggested that the role of the methyltransferase EZH2 in this context could be affected by interactions with this drug. <p> Conclusion: Histone FTIR spectra were not affected by VPA under present experimental conditions. Whether our epigenetic results are consistent with VPA affecting the aggressive tumorous state of HeLa cells, further investigation is required.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The <i>MAP2K2</i> Gene as Potential Diagnostic Marker in Monitoring
Adalimumab Therapy of Psoriatic Arthritis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124840</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: MAP kinases are some of the cascades that are specialized in the cell’s response to external stimuli. Their impaired functioning can be observed during the course of psoriatic arthritis. Currently, the best-known class of biological drugs is the inhibitors of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-&#945;, including adalimumab. <p> Objective: The aim of this study was to assess changes in the expression of MAP kinase genes in patients with psoriatic arthritis treated with adalimumab, as well as to determine which of the analyzed transcripts could be used as a diagnostic or therapeutic target. <p> Methods: An analysis was performed on the total RNA extracted from PBMCs of patients with psoriatic arthritis before and after three months of adalimumab therapy as well as from a control group. Changes in the expression of the mitogen-activated protein kinase genes were assessed using the HG-U133A 2.0 oligonucleotide microarray method, while the obtained results were validated using the real-time RT-qPCR method. <p> Results: Using the oligonucleotide microarray method, 14 genes coded for proteins from the MAPK group were identified with at least a two-fold change of expression in the control group and during adalimumab therapy. Validation of the results confirmed a statistically significant decrease in the transcriptional activity of the MAP2K2 gene in the group of patients three months after the administration of adalimumab relative to the control group. <p> Conclusion: Adalimumab therapy alters the expression of MAPK-coding genes. The assessment of the number of MAP2K2 mRNA molecules can potentially be used in diagnostic analyses or in monitoring adalimumab therapy.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Case Report of Sotalol Induced IgA Vasculitis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124732</link><description><![CDATA[Background: IgA vasculitis is the most common form of systemic vasculitis in children but can occur in adults. Inciting antigens include infections, drugs, foods, insect bites, and immunizations. Antibiotics and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha inhibitors are the most common class of drugs that cause IgA vasculitis. Although sotalol and rivaroxaban have been documented to cause leukocytoclastic vasculitis, we have never come across any literature attributing IgA vasculitis to either drug. Additionally, Rocky Mountain spotted fever has not been associated with IgA vasculitis despite being described in cutaneous and systemic vasculitis cases. Here, we present a case of IgA vasculitis triggered by sotalol with challenging differentials, including a recent infection with Rocky Mountain spotted fever, malignancy, and rivaroxaban as possible triggers. <p> Case Presentation: 68 yr old male with a history of lung cancer treated with resection and chemotherapy 5 years ago is currently in remission, and recently was started on sotalol and rivaroxaban for new-onset paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. He presented with diffuse petechial/purpural rash on the lower limbs, multiple joint pain, severe abdominal pain and rectal bleeds, hemoptysis, and renal dysfunction. IgG titers for RMSF were high. Punch biopsy of skin and renal biopsy were consistent with IgA vasculitis. Sotalol and rivaroxaban were stopped. The patient was treated with oral prednisone, and his condition relatively improved. <p> Conclusion: Ig A vasculitis is mostly a self-limiting disease, but adults tend to have a severe course. It is important to diagnose early and identify a trigger. Removing the offending agent or treating the underlying infection is an important aspect of management.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Serum Level of Soluble Human Leukocyte Antigen G in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Rheumatoid Arthritis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124565</link><description><![CDATA[Background: This study aimed to evaluate the serum level of human leukocyte antigen G [HLA-G] in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared to healthy controls; moreover, it attempted to assess its relationship with SLE and RA disease activity indices. <p> Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 31 SLE patients (17 cases with a recent diagnosis and 14 cases with a previous diagnosis), 21 RA patients (7 cases with a recent diagnosis and 14 cases with a previous diagnosis), and 18 healthy controls who visited Ghaem Hospital affiliated to Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mahhad, Iran. SLE and RA activity indices were measured and recorded. Furthemore, soluble isoforms, including shed HLA-G1 and HLA-G5, were measured in serum samples via the ELISA method. <p> Results: A comparison of the five groups showed no significant differences in the serum level of sHLA-G. However, sHLA-G serum level was significantly higher in SLE and RA patients compared to healthy controls (P<0.05). sHLA-G level showed no correlation with disease duration and activity in SLE and RA patients (P>0.05). However, a strong positive correlation was observed between the serum level of sHLA-G and 24-h urine protein in the previously diagnosed SLE group (r=0.83, P=0.01). <p> Conclusion: It seems that the serum level of sHLA-G is higher in RA and SLE patients compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, a strong correlation was found between sHLA-G serum levels and 24-h urine protein in cases with a previous diagnosis of SLE.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Approach to Psychiatric Illness in Rheumatology Clinics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/123740</link><description><![CDATA[Rheumatologists encounter patients with psychiatric illnesses daily in their practice; however, formal training in rheumatology does not sufficiently equip rheumatologists with guidance for managing common psychiatric illnesses. This study reviews common clinical situations involving psychiatric symptoms, their relationship with rheumatologic conditions, and their effects on clinical presentation and management. We illustrate key principles in a case-based format and reflect on the management of psychiatric components. Based on these discussions and a brief review of the epidemiology of psychiatric illnesses, we emphasize the prevalence and significance of these problems in daily practice.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Association between Sleep Duration and Early Pubertal Timing in Children
and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125653</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Early puberty increases the risk of diverse health outcomes during adolescence and beyond. Several studies have explored the links between short sleep duration and early puberty worldwide. <p> Objective: The current systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between sleep duration and early pubertal timing based on published evidence systematically. <p> Methods: We searched important electronic databases for articles that reported the association between childhood sleep duration and puberty timing up to October 2020. A total of 848 papers were identified from the databases and manual search. Finally, 10 studies including 23752 participants were included in the meta-analysis. We calculated the pooled effect sizes using a random or fixed effects model as appropriate. <p> Results: There was a significant inverse association between sleep duration and the risk of early puberty, longer duration of sleep was associated with 0.34% decreased odds of early puberty (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.58-0.77, I<sup>2</sup> = 96.6%). In a subgroup analysis, when pubertal status was assessed by physical examination compared with Pubertal Development Scale (PDS) or Sexual Maturation Scale (SMS), the associations between sleep duration and age of puberty were attenuated. The pooled OR (95% CI) of studies measuring pubertal timing by PDS/SMS and Tanner stage were 0.50(0.37-0.69) and 0.91(0.77-1.09), respectively. When pooling effect sizes was limited to studies that had BMI level adjustment, the association of sleep duration and early puberty was not statistically significant anymore (OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.89-1.01). <p> Conclusion: Longer sleep duration is associated with a lower risk of early puberty in children. The association between sleep duration and risk of early puberty may be modified by other factors such as BMI. To clarify the effect of sleep duration on the risk of early puberty in children, further prospective studies are needed.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Biology and Natural History of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/122424</link><description><![CDATA[Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a clinical condition characterized by insufficient insulin production due to progressive loss of pancreatic islet β-cells mediated by an autoimmune response. This deregulation of the immune system is caused by the action of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors in varying combinations for each individual. Although the inflammation of the islets with immune cell infiltration, known as insulitis, is an important element in pathogenesis, other factors are necessary for disease initiation. Associations with variants of HLA and other genes related to immune system function, mainly haplotypes HLA-DR3-DQ2 and HLA-DR4-DQ8, are more evident. The influence of polymorphisms and epigenetic modifications, as well as the microbiome, is convincing proof of the existence of a complex interaction between genetic, immune, and environmental factors in the etiology and pathogenesis of this metabolic disorder. Loss of selftolerance to autoimmunity is a critical point in the development of the disease, and regulatory T cells play a key role in this process. Thus, any failure of these cells, either due to an insufficient number or altered expression of cytokines and transcription factors, may be the trigger for the onset of the disease. The protective action of regulatory T cells is controlled by gene expression that is modulated by epigenetic modifications, including the dysregulation of noncoding RNAs. This review takes an updated approach to the natural history of type 1 diabetes, focusing on the factors involved in the etiology and pathogenesis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[COVID-19 Mass Vaccination and Flu Season: Concern for Decreased
Public Health Measures and Worsening the Influenza Situation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126143</link><description><![CDATA[Reports show that other ordinary childhood infections like measles or influenza are likely to reemerge. The re-emergence of infectious diseases may happen due to the direct impact of the pandemic on the community because of decreased access to health and medical services, interrupted transport systems, weaknesses in the supply chain, flight restrictions, closings of the border, and international trade problems. The most prevalent cause (60.9%) for low vaccine uptake and coverage during the current pandemic was fear of exposure to the COVID-19 virus outside the home. The expectation and hope that the pattern of reduction in transmission and number of influenza cases will continue over the next flu season depend on continued adherence to nonpharmaceutical interventions and their long-term application. But there is always the fear and threat of increasing the spread of influenza by reducing the movement restrictions and low adherence to protective health measures due to vaccination. So far, not much information has been published about the interaction between different infectious diseases in the background of the coronavirus pandemic and related interventions. The purpose of this article is to examine the general effects of the COVID-19 vaccination on the spread of influenza in the coming seasons.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeted Treatment and Immunotherapy in High-risk and Relapsed/
Refractory Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126099</link><description><![CDATA[Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most frequent pediatric malignancy in children, comprising 30% of all pediatric malignancies; adult ALL comprises 5% of all ALL cases, which have a 186.6 per 1 million incidence. In pediatric ALL (pALL), on which this review focuses, approximately 1 in 285 children are diagnosed with cancer before the age of 20, and approximately 1 in 530 young adults between the ages of 20 and 39 years old is a childhood cancer survivor. The survival probability in pALL is now very high, approximately 80-90%. Thus, the most important is to improve supportive care and treatment based on relapse risk, optimally being based on the genetic feature of malignant cells. Improvements made by now are mainly the classifying of subgroups based on genetic characteristics such as aneuploidy or translocation and aligning them with treatment response. Relevant genetic changes in ALL pathogenesis are transcription regulators of lymphoid development (PAX5, IKZF1, EBF1, and LEF1) and/or coactivators (TBL1XR1 and ERG), lymphoid signaling (BTLA, and CD200 TOX), and tumor suppressor genes (CDKN2A, CDKN2B, RB1, and TP53). This review aims to summarize treatment strategies inhibiting tyrosine kinases, influencing different signaling pathways, BCL inhibitors, and anti-CD therapy (anti-cluster differentiation therapy) in pALL. CAR T-cell therapy (chimeric antigen receptors T-cell therapy) is under research and requires further development.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Development and Validation of an HPLC Analytical Method to Determine
6-Merpactopurine Concentration in Oral Suspension]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/120385</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The 6-mercaptopurine is an active ingredient used to treat certain types of leukemia. This drug is an immunosuppressive and antineoplastic agent that belongs to the thiopurine class. In Brazil, 6-MP is currently available only in the form of 50 mg tablets, sold as Purinethol® and manufactured by Glaxo Smith Kline. The lack of the liquid formulation’s production impedes treatment, assuming that one of its advantages is through its applicability in pediatric patients, who show the highest incidence among others. <p> Objective: The purpose of this work was to evaluate the development and application of a reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method using an Agilent 1220 Infinity® G4294B chromatograph with photodiode array detector. <p> Methods: HPLC assays were performed on an Eclipse plus® C18 column (4.6 x 150 mm, 3.5 μm particle size) using a gradient mode mixture of acetonitrile and aqueous acetic acid solution as a mobile phase, with a flow of 1 mL.min-1 and detection at 324 nm. The method was validated by determining its selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, and robustness. <p> Results: Retention time for 6-mercaptopurine was 5.12 minutes. The detector’s response was linear at concentrations from 1.6 to 2.4 μg/mL. The results of the method’s accuracy evaluation showed mean recovery of the amount of substance added to the samples of between 99.88 and 100.5%. For precision, repeatability and intermediate precision were evaluated. The repeatability showed a standard deviation of 0.0737. The intermediate precision was assessed on three different. For three days of the studies, the values of the standard deviations were less than 3%, showing repeatability and intermediate precision adequate for the analytical method in question. The limit of detection was determined as 3.6 ng/mL. The limit of quantification was determined as 12 ng/mL. The chromatographic method was robust. <p> Conclusion: The proposed method can be applied to control the quality of 6-MP oral suspension to ensure that the required content is delivered to pediatric oncology patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of the Gut Microbiome in Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases
Including Restoration and Targeting Approaches- A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124481</link><description><![CDATA[Metabolic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and diabetes, have become the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Gut microbiota appears to play a vital role in human disease and health, according to recent scientific reports. The gut microbiota plays an important role in sustaining host physiology and homeostasis by creating a cross-talk between the host and microbiome via metabolites obtained from the host's diet. Drug developers and clinicians rely heavily on therapies that target the microbiota in the management of metabolic diseases, and the gut microbiota is considered the biggest immune organ in the human body. They are highly associated with intestinal immunity and systemic metabolic disorders like CVD and diabetes and are reflected as potential therapeutic targets for the management of metabolic diseases. This review discusses the mechanism and interrelation between the gut microbiome and metabolic disorders. It also highlights the role of the gut microbiome and microbially derived metabolites in the pathophysiological effects related to CVD and diabetes. It also spotlights the reasons that lead to alterations of microbiota composition and the prominence of gut microbiota restoration and targeting approaches as effective treatment strategies in diabetes and CVD. Future research should focus onunderstanding the functional level of some specific microbial pathways that help maintain physiological homeostasis, multi-omics, and develop novel therapeutic strategies that intervene with the gut microbiome for the prevention of CVD and diabetes that contribute to a patient's well-being.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cognitive Advantage of Bilingualism Over Monolingualism in Older
Adults: A Meta-Analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126421</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objectives: This study aimed to explore whether bilingual older adults had a cognitive advantage over their monolingual counterparts, and validate the influence of cognition-related (participants’ cognitive condition, the cognitive domain assessed), and bilingualism-related factors (second language proficiency, frequency of use, acquisition time, and immigration status of participants)on the cognitive advantage of bilingualism. <P> Methods: Through a systematic search of nine databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Elsevier Science Direct, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, CNKI, VIP and Wanfang) from the inception to April 2021, observational studies with bilingual and monolingual older adults as participants and cognitive function scores as outcome measures were included. Two reviewers independently completed the selection and methodological quality assessment of studies using the JBI cross-sectional study quality evaluation tool and used a pre-designed table for data extraction and sorting. <P> Results: Fourteen studies with 51 tasks were included, involving 3737 participants (bilingual group: 1695, monolingual group: 2042). The overall results of the meta-analysis showed that bilingualism had a small cognitive advantage over monolingualism in older adults [SMD=0.23, 95%CI (0.07, 0.38), P=0.004]. In addition, the subgroup analyses indicated that factors such as participants’ cognitive condition, the cognitive domain assessed, second language proficiency, acquisition time, and immigration status of participants impacted the cognitive advantage of bilingualism in older adults. <P> Conclusion: Bilingualism had a mild cognitive advantage over monolingualism in older adults, which was more prominent in older adults with mild cognitive impairment than in cognitively healthy ones, more evident in global cognitive function and inhibitory control than in other individual cognitive domains, and might be influenced by the proficiency and acquisition time of second language as well as the immigration status of older adults.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Acanthosis Nigricans: An Updated Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/123052</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Early recognition of acanthosis nigricans is important because acanthosis nigricans can be a cutaneous manifestation of a variety of systemic disorders and, rarely, as a sign of internal malignancy. <p> Objective: The purpose of this article is to familiarize pediatricians with the clinical manifestations, evaluation, diagnosis, and management of acanthosis nigricans. <p> Methods: A search was conducted in November 2021in PubMed Clinical Queries using the key term \"acanthosis nigricans\". The search strategy included all clinical trials, observational studies, and reviews published within the past 10 years. Only papers published in the English literature were included in this review. The information retrieved from the above search was used in the compilation of the present article. <p> Results: Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by symmetric, hyperpigmented, and velvety plaques with ill-defined borders, typically involving intertriginous areas. Obesity is the most common cause of acanthosis nigricans which is increasingly observed in obese children and adolescents and can serve as a cutaneous marker of insulin resistance. Early recognition of acanthosis nigricans is important because acanthosis nigricans can also be a cutaneous manifestation of a variety of systemic disorders and, rarely, as a sign of internal malignancy. This may consist of weight reduction, discontinuation of causative drugs, treatment of underlying endocrinopathy, or treatment of an underlying malignancy. For patients with isolated acanthosis nigricans and for those whose underlying cause is not amenable to treatment, treatment of the lesion may be considered for cosmetic reasons. Topical retinoids, vitamin D analogs, chemical peels, and other keratolytics are often used for the treatment of localized lesions. Seldom, systemic therapy such as oral retinoids may be considered for extensive or generalized acanthosis nigricans and acanthosis nigricans unresponsive to topical therapy. Other uncommon treatment modalities include dermabrasion, laser therapy, and surgical removal. <p> Conclusion: Although acanthosis nigricans is treatable, a complete cure is difficult to achieve. The underlying cause should be treated, if possible, to resolve and prevent the recurrence of acanthosis nigricans. The diagnosis is mainly clinical, based on the characteristic appearance (symmetrically distributed, hyperpigmented, velvety, papillomatous, hyperkeratotic plaques with ill-defined borders) and the typical sites (intertriginous areas, flexural area, and skin folds) of the lesions. The diagnosis might be difficult for lesions that have atypical morphology or are in an unusual location. Clinicians should be familiar with the clinical signs, evaluation, diagnosis, and therapy of acanthosis nigricans because of the link between it and underlying diseases.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of NF-&#954;B in Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125515</link><description><![CDATA[Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a threat to human life and physical health worldwide. Timely reperfusion is very important to limit infarct size and protect ischemic myocardium. Unfortunately, it has also caused severer myocardial damage, which is called “myocardial ischemia/ reperfusion injury (MIRI)”. There is no effective clinical treatment for it. Over the past two decades, biological studies of NF-&#954;B have improved the understanding of MIRI. Nuclear Factor-&#954;B (NF-&#954;B) is a major transcription factor associated with cardiovascular health and disease. It is involved in the release of pro-inflammatory factors and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Recent studies have shown that inhibition of NF-&#954;B plays a protective role in acute hypoxia and reperfusion injury. Here we review the molecular regulation of NF-&#954;B in MIRI, better understanding of NF-&#954;B signaling mechanisms related to inflammation and crosstalk with endogenous small molecules. We hope this review will aid in improving therapeutic approaches to clinical diagnosing. This review provides evidence for the role of NF-&#954;B in MIRI and supports its use as a therapeutic target.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[New Insights into Cold Shock Proteins Effects in Human Cancer: Correlation
with Susceptibility, Prognosis and Therapeutical Perspectives]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124113</link><description><![CDATA[The microenvironment of the tumor cells is central to its phenotypic modification. One of the essential elements of this milieu is thermal regulation. An augment in local temperature has been reported to augment the tumor cell's responsiveness to chemoand radiation treatment. Cold shock proteins are RNA/DNA binding proteins identified by the existence of one or more cold shock domains. In humans, the best studied components of this group of proteins are called Y-box binding proteins, such as Y-box binding protein-1 (YB-1), but several other proteins have been recognized. Biological functions of these proteins extend from the control of transcription, translation and splicing to the regulation of exosomal RNA content. Several findings correlate an altered cold shock protein expression profile with tumor diseases. In this review we summarize the data for a causative participation of cold shock proteins in cancer onset and diffusion. Furthermore, the possible use of cold shock proteins for diagnostics, prognosis, and as targets for cancer treatment is exposed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effects of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors on Growth and Bone Metabolism in
Children with Haematologic Malignancies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119408</link><description><![CDATA[]]></description> </item></channel></rss>