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

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

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                    RSS Feed for Disease Wise Article | BenthamScience

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                    <pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 08:55:44 +0000</pubDate>

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

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

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

                    </image><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[The Differences of Blood Group Typing using Erythrocytes and Leukocytes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138044</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Adsorption and mixed agglutination reactions detect A, B, and H blood group antigens in the cells. The study aimed to investigate the adsorbing abilities of group-specific polyclonal antibodies using erythrocytes and leukocytes to improve the quality of blood typing. <p> Material and Methods: The adsorption was performed with group B erythrocytes and leukocytes using the usual heated citrated anti-B plasma at 4°C and 37°C. A mixed agglutination reaction revealed group B antigens on leukocytes and erythrocytes. <p> Results: The highest adsorption of antibodies from usual plasma on erythrocytes was observed at 4°C at physiological conditions. Weaker adsorption was determined at pH 8.0 compared to pH 6.0 (the decrease of agglutination strength from 3+ to 2+ and 1+ accordingly). <p> The adsorption of polyclonal antibodies on erythrocytes at 37°C was the highest at pH 6.0 and 8.0 compared to physiological conditions (the decrease of agglutination strength from 3+ to 1+). In contrast, adsorption at 4°C appeared to be stronger at pH 6.0. <p> The adsorption of IgG antibodies on erythrocytes at 37°C was higher at pH 8.0. <p> Complete adsorption of IgG antibodies was observed on group B erythrocytes and leukocytes at 37°C and 4°C. <p> Conclusions: Adsorption of polyclonal group-specific antibodies on erythrocytes was the highest at 4°C, and adsorption of IgG antibodies was strong at 4°C and 37°C. Adsorption of leukocytes was revealed only with the use of the heated serum. IgG group-specific antibodies from the heated plasma demonstrated higher adsorbing abilities on leukocytes than IgM antibodies from plasma.</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[Exploring Phytotherapy's Preventive and Therapeutic Impact on Global
COVID-19 Management: A Narrative Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139910</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: The WHO Emergency Committee advocates preventive strategies for COVID-19 management, emphasising vaccines as highly effective but acknowledging their limitations. Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, initially effective against COVID-19, were discontinued due to severe side effects. Further clinical trials are imperative to establish the safety and efficacy of new antiviral agents, some of which may have harmful effects on human development. <P> Objectives: The shortcomings of various conventional treatments have prompted urgent efforts to discover safe, natural compounds that may be useful in combating COVID-19. This study aims to review research that has investigated the potential of traditional phytotherapies used by different populations for the prevention and symptomatic treatment of COVID-19 infection. <P> Methods: This paper reviewed scientific studies published through searching on search engines such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Elsevier from May until October 2023. <P> Results: The preventive and anti-COVID-19 attributes of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic formulations and African medicinal plants have been substantiated in research. In Nepal, recommendations endorse the utilisation of medicinal plants for herbal teas and homemade sanitizers. <i>Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa L</i>. and <i>Curcuma xanthorriza Roxb</i>., along with <i>Camellia sinensis</i> are crucial Indonesian medicinal plants with potential for treating COVID-19. <i>Z. officinale</i> was predominantly chosen for relieving coughs and sore throats associated with COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. <P> Discussion: The immunomodulatory properties of medicinal plants, which may prove useful in combating COVID-19, have been verified <i>via</i> elevation of the level of peripheral WBCs, IgM, IgG; inhibition of leukotrienes and prostaglandins, maintenance of the integrity of intestinal mucosal barrier and regulation of HMGB1. The antiviral effects of herbs, including the inhibition of viral DNA and RNA replication, down-regulation of oxidative stress, and the impediment of SARS-CoV-2 access to vascular endothelial cells, suggest their potential to facilitate earlier recovery from COVID-19 infection. <P> Conclusion: Advancing scientific research in phytotherapy promises the possibility of novel approaches for effectively managing future infectious diseases and pandemics.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Systematic Review of the Novel Targeted Immunobiological Medications in
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Efficacy, Safety, and Innovation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139419</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Over the last half-century, the treatment and management of autoimmune rheumatic diseases have progressively improved, particularly with the contribution of immunobiological or biological therapies known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. Although these agents have been generally efficient in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), some patients experience limited efficacy and non-responsiveness to treatment. In addition, they may cause adverse clinical effects, further aggravating the disease. <p> Objectives: Despite advancements in biological therapies, significant clinical needs persist. This review aims to discuss novel treatments, guiding future guidelines and drug discoveries for rheumatoid arthritis. <p> Methods: This review follows the 2020 PRISMA statement, utilising PubMed and Google Scholar for literature search and emphasizing recent meta-analyses on the safety and efficacy of targeted immunobiological medications. <p> Results: Small molecule inhibitors, whether utilised independently or in conjunction with Methotrexate, have been shown to contribute to effective disease management and have the potential for better adherence to the American College of Rheumatology criteria. Tocilizumab therapy demonstrates a significant reduction in disease activity and improves rates of disease remission when combined with Methotrexate. Investigations of mesenchymal stromal cell therapies have had promising outcomes, improving both cartilage quality (as evaluated by Macroscopic Cartilage Repair Assessment) and joint tenderness and swelling in clinical joint counts. Intra-articular administration of tolerogenic dendritic cells has displayed a capacity to alleviate pain, as measured by Visual Analog Scale scores, and enhance the Disease Activity Score across 28 joints. Resveratrol capsules supplemented with allopathic therapy show potential in reducing TNF-&#945; and interleukin-6 serum levels. <p> Conclusion: More investigations and their analysis will improve patient outcomes and reduce adverse effects and the costs involved in developing and obtaining immunobiological drugs. Moreover, assessing the safety and efficacy of anti-RA properties of the bioactive compounds could offer less toxic and more cost-effective natural treatment options.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comparative Analysis of Renal Neoplasms with Immunohistochemistry
Study: Bahrain Experience]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136530</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The incidence of renal neoplasms has been increasing globally. Immunohistochemistry aids in differentiating the subtypes of Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC). <p> Objective: This study aimed to describe the demography of renal cancer in the Kingdom of Bahrain, comparing it to other regions worldwide, emphasizing the most common type of renal cancer, clinical presentation, and immunohistochemistry. <p> Methodology: This retrospective chart review comprises 74 Bahraini patients diagnosed with Renal neoplasms (from 2009-2019) at the Bahrain Defense Force (BDF) Hospital in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Variables collected include demographics, clinical presentation from patients’ electronic records and pathology registry, surgical management, immunohistochemistry, pathological staging, grading, and prognosis. IBM SPSS Statistics, version 28.0.0.0, was used. <p> Results: About 71 patients’ characteristics were analyzed; 63 had malignant neoplasms, and 8 had benign neoplasms. The mean age of patients with a malignant renal neoplasm was 56.38 (± 12.643). The most common presentation was an incidental finding (60.6% of lesions being right-sided). Clear Cell RCC was the most common malignant lesion (77.1%), and the most common stage was stage 1 (69.8%). CD10 and vimentin were 100% sensitive for Clear Cell RCC. No significant association was found between diabetes and a higher Fuhrman grade (3 or 4) (P = 0.066). <p> Conclusion: From 2009 to 2019, renal neoplasms incidence increased. The most common malignant neoplasm was clear cell RCC and among benign tumours was oncocytoma. Immunohistochemistry plays an important role in subtype determination. One recommendation would be to assess the incidence of renal neoplasms in other hospitals in Bahrain to establish more epidemiological data and compare our results with other Gulf hospitals.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cell Physiological Behavior in the Context of Local Hypothermia]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132813</link><description><![CDATA[Local hypothermia has protective effects on injured endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, and neurocytes. Unfortunately, the underlying mechanism of local hypothermia is still unknown. The overall effect of local hypothermia involves changes in cellular and extracellular homeostasis. Reduction in cellular metabolism is the hallmark effect of local hypothermia, resulting in a reduction in energy expenditure already impaired by starvation conditions, such as ischemia. However, on a molecular basis, local hypothermia modifies cell physiology according to the type and the vitality of the cells (brain cells are more important than skin cells; therefore, local hypothermia of the brain tissue is more critical than skin tissue, and the overall reaction of the organism is to prevent the brain from dying). This involves activating survival mechanisms, such as autophagy of brain tissue and apoptosis. The activated signaling pathways are not identical in various tissues. However, the whole machinery signaling axes have not yet been elucidated. Local hypothermia promotes the healing of the injury and improves the proliferation of regenerative tissue, but not differentiation. Hypothermia prevents the transdifferentiation of endothelial cells, neurons, and myocardiocytes. Finally, the therapeutic effects of hypothermia involve activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1).]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Autophagy Behavior in Endothelial Cell Dysfunction]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132896</link><description><![CDATA[Autophagy regulates endothelial cell homeostasis. Autophagy is a catabolic process involving degradation of intracellular components. Dysregulation of autophagy induces endothelial cell dysfunction. Endothelial cell dysfunction is a multifactorial pathophysiological change that occurs at the cellular and subcellular levels. Lipophagy and mitophagy are hallmarks of the pathogenesis of endothelial cell dysfunction. The regulation of the autophagy mechanism involved amino acids, growth factors, hormones, myo-inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate, calpain, calcium, bcl-2, reactive oxygen species, BNIP3, DRAM, p19ARF, FADD and TRAIL. Down-regulation of autophagy reduces endothelial cell resistance to stressful conditions such as shear stress, deprivation of oxidative stress, nutrients deprivation, and hypoxemia. Autophagy optimizes endothelial cell function, increases longevity, slows senescence, and prevents endothelial cell transdifferentiation. Pathophysiologically, autophagy is inhibited in endothelial cells due to mTORC1 repression release. Also, AMPK expression repression downregulates autophagy and subsequently endothelial dysfunction. The paper provides state of art on the current advances in the autophagy role in endothelial cell dysfunction.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comprehensive Review of Essential Aspects of Molecular Pathophysiological
Mechanisms with Emerging Interventions for Sarcopenia in Older People]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130060</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: As people age, physical impairments may have a deleterious role on skeletal muscles. Sarcopenia Clinical Practice Guidelines 2017 and the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in older people are two organizations that have published essential guidelines on the definition of “Sarcopenia”. Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome, characterized by skeletal muscle mass degeneration brought on by ageing, which lowers muscular function and quality. Moreover, Sarcopenia can be classified as primary or age-associated Sarcopenia and secondary Sarcopenia. Also, secondary Sarcopenia occurs when other diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, cirrhosis, myocardial failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and inflammatory bowel disease also contribute to muscle loss. Furthermore, Sarcopenia is linked with a high risk of negative outcomes, considering a gradual reduction in physical mobility, poor balance, and increased fracture risks which ultimately leads to poor quality of life. <P> Objective: In this comprehensive review, we have elaborated on the pathophysiology, and various signaling pathways linked with Sarcopenia. Also, discussed the preclinical models and current interventional therapeutics to treat muscle wasting in older patients. <P> Conclusion: In a nutshell, a comprehensive description of the pathophysiology, mechanisms, animal models, and interventions of Sarcopenia. We also shed light on pharmacotherapeutics present in clinical trials which are being developed as potential therapeutic options for wasting diseases. Thus, this review could fill in the knowledge gaps regarding Sarcopenia-related muscle loss and muscle quality for both researchers and clinicians.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[CD73 Blockade Alleviated Hepatic Fibrosis via Inhibiting Hepatic Stellate Cells
Proliferation and Activation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130319</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Liver fibrosis is associated with the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Inhibition of HSCs activation is a strategy for alleviating hepatic fibrogenesis. CD73 is involved in liver disease development, while the mechanism remains unclear. <P> Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of CD73 targeting inhibition on liver fibrosis. <P> Methods: Intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 was used to induce liver fibrosis in mice models. Adenosine 5′-(α, β-methylene) diphosphate sodium salt (APCP) was used for CD73 blockade. The siRNA was used to induce CD73 knockdown in HSCs. LX2 and HSC-T6 were used to investigate the role of CD73 in HSCs activation in vitro. <P> Results: The results showed that APCP treatment could alleviate hepatic fibrosis. In fibrotic liver tissues, CD73 exhibited a positive correlation with markers of HSCs activation. Furthermore, APCP treatment and CD73 knockdown could inhibit HSCs (LX2 and HSC-T6) activation and proliferation. By using RNA sequencing of liver tissues from control, CCl4-mice, and APCP-treated mice, 851 genes that were significantly changed in CCl4 mice (vs. control) were reversed by APCP treatment. These genes were mainly enriched in cell division-associated biological processes. Moreover, we found that CD73 might be associated with autophagy in HSCs. In fibrotic liver tissues and HSCs, ATG5 and Beclin1 expression could be downregulated by CD73 knockdown and APCP treatment. <P> Conclusion: This study demonstrated the effects and mechanism of CD73 in HSCs activation and proliferation, which presents the therapeutical potential of CD73 blockage for liver fibrosis.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[At the Crossroads of TNF &#945; Signaling and Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134363</link><description><![CDATA[Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF&#945;) is a pleiotropic pro-inflammatory cytokine of the TNF superfamily. It regulates key cellular processes such as death, and proliferation besides its well-known role in immune response through activation of various intracellular signaling pathways (such as MAPK, Akt, NF-&#954;B, etc.) via complex formation by ligand-activated TNF&#945; receptors. TNF&#945; tightly regulates the activity of key signaling proteins via their phosphorylation and/or ubiquitination which culminate in specific cellular responses. Deregulated TNF&#945; signaling is implicated in inflammatory diseases, neurological disorders, and cancer. TNF&#945; has been shown to exert opposite effects on cancer cells since it activates prosurvival as well as anti-survival pathways depending on various contexts such as cell type, concentration, cell density, etc. A detailed understanding of TNF&#945; signaling phenomena is crucial for understanding its pleiotropic role in malignancies and its potential as a drug target or an anticancer therapeutic. This review enlightens complex cellular signaling pathways activated by TNF&#945; and further discusses its role in various cancers.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[E7386 is not a Specific CBP/&#946;-Catenin Antagonist]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132128</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background and Objective: The first clinically evaluated CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonist, PRI-724, displayed an excellent safety profile administered intravenously via continuous infusion. Eisai recently disclosed a third-generation, orally available, reportedly CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonist, E7386. However, several structural features and the reported cytotoxicity of E7386 were unexpected for a specific CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonist. Therefore, we undertook a comparison of E7386 versus the highly specific bona fide CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonists, ICG-001 and C82, the active agents derived from the prodrug PRI-724. <p> Introduction: CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonists rebalance the equilibrium between CBP/&#946;-catenin and p300/&#946;-catenin dependent transcription and may be able to treat or prevent many diseases of aging via maintenance of somatic stem cell pool and regulating mitochondrial function and metabolism involved in differentiation and immune cell function. The safety, efficacy, and therapeutic potential of the specific CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonists, ICG-001, and the second-generation compound, C82, the active agent derived from the pro-drug PRI-724, have been studied extensively in a variety of preclinical disease models and in the clinic for oncology and hepatic fibrosis. However, the lack of oral bioavailability has hampered the further development of PRI-724. Thus, Eisai recently proposed a third-generation, orally available, reportedly CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonist E7386. Here, we have performed a comparative analysis of E7386 with the highly specific bona fide CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonists, ICG-001 and C82. <p> Methods: We utilized a series of previously validated biochemical and transcriptional assays to investigate the selective targeting of the CBP/&#946;-catenin interaction in conjunction with global transcriptional profiling to compare the three small molecules, ICG-001, C82, and E7386. <p> Result: Our data cast significant doubt that the mechanism of action of E7386 is via specific CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonism. <p> Conclusion: It can thus be concluded that E7386 is not a specific CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonist.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Regulatory Mechanism of Hypoxia-inducible Factor 1 and its Clinical
Significance]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137225</link><description><![CDATA[Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a nuclear protein that plays a crucial role in oxygen homeostasis through its transcriptional activity and thousands of target gene profiles. Through transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation, the downstream target genes of HIF can trigger multiple pathological responses in the body, including energy metabolism, cytopenia, and angiogenesis. There are three distinct subtypes of HIF: HIF-1, HIF-2, and HIF-3. HIF-1 is a significant regulator of the cellular response to hypoxia, and the balance between its production and degradation is critical for this response. As hypoxia is linked to several disorders, understanding HIF can open up novel avenues for the treatment of many diseases. This review describes the regulatory mechanisms of HIF-1 synthesis and degradation and the clinical significance of the hypoxia-inducible factor pathway in lung injury, kidney disease, hematologic disorders, and inflammation-related diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Review of the Dual Role of MicroRNA-21 in Cardiovascular Diseases: Risk
Factor or a Potential Therapeutic Target]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138046</link><description><![CDATA[Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the number one reason for morbidity and mortality in the modern world, and their incidence is increasing at an incredible pace. Increasing evidence has shown the significant functions of microRNAs in the cardiovascular system and has highlighted their potential application as a new era of diagnostic and therapeutic targets for CVD that can improve the prognosis and life expectancy of patients. Among more than 2,000 microRNAs, microRNA-21 (miR-21) is highly expressed in human hearts and has earned the interest of researchers as a potential biomarker in a wide range of common heart conditions. Here, we summarized recent research progress regarding the significant role of miR-21 in CVD, focusing on cardiotoxicity, heart arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, and hypertension. Several signaling pathways (TGF-&#946;1/Smad2 signaling, FGFR1/FGF21/PPAR&#947;, NF-&#954;B/miR-21/SMAD7, miR-21/SPRY1/ERK/mTOR …) and molecular targets (BTG2, PDCD4, PTEN, STAT3…) were reported to be controlled, at least partially, by miR-21 and are linked to CVD pathogenesis. Most investigations highlighted miR-21 cardioprotective functions in heart injury, while some other studies showed that this miR is elevated in the serum/tissue of patients, promoting fibrosis and cardiac dysfunction. This dual role can be explained by the fact that miR-21 has multiple regulatory functions depending on the microenvironment, downstream signaling, and target genes, which indicates that cell-type-specific investigations should receive more attention. With further investigations, miR-21 can be considered a novel tailored therapy with favorable outcomes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Review of the Role of Metabolic Factors in Determining the Post-surgical
Adhesion and its Therapeutic Implications, with a Focus on Extracellular
Matrix and Oxidative Stress]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135619</link><description><![CDATA[The potential role of metabolic reprogramming in fibrogenesis has recently attracted interest. Extracellular matrix stiffness, inflammation, and subsequent oxidative stress are essential mediators in the causation of fibrosis. The prevention of post-surgical adhesion is a challenge in medicine. It is defined as a fibrotic disorder in which adhesive bands develop after abdominal or pelvic surgery. Despite many studies related to the pathogenesis of post-surgical adhesion (PSA), many unknowns exist. Therefore, evaluating different pathways may help characterize and identify the cause of fibrotic scar formation post-operation. Glucose and lipid metabolism are crucial metabolic pathways in the cell’s energy production that may be targeted by hypoxia-induced factor alpha and profibrotic cytokines such as TGF-β to mediate fibrogenesis. Inhibition of upregulated metabolic pathways may be a viable strategy for ameliorating post-surgical adhesion. In this review, we have discussed the potential role of altered glucose and lipid metabolism in extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and oxidative stress as crucial mediators in fibrosis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Apelin Receptor Dimerization and Oligomerization]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133810</link><description><![CDATA[Apelin and its receptor are expressed in many tissues and play an important role in maintaining the homeostasis of the cardiovascular system and body fluids. Also, the association of this system with many diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cancer, diabetic retinopathy, etc., has been determined. This system is considered a therapeutic goal in many mentioned diseases. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have the ability to form oligomers and dimers with themselves and other receptors. The formation of these oligomers is associated with a change in the signaling pathways of the receptors. Research on the oligo and dimers of these receptors can revolutionize the principles of pharmacology. The apelin receptor (APJ) is also a GPCR and has been shown to have the ability to form dimers and oligomers. This article discusses the dimerization and oligomerization of this receptor with its own receptor and other receptors, as well as the signaling pathways.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Detailed Review of Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms Responsible for the
Development and Aggravation of Neuropathy and Nephropathy in Diabetes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130383</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Diabetic mellitus is responsible for triggering many conditions, such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Hyperglycemia leads to the development of oxidative stress conditions, activation of pathways, and generation of metabolites, leading to complications like neuropathy and nephropathy. <P> Objective: This paper aims to discuss the mechanism of actions, pathways, and metabolites triggered due to the development of neuropathy and nephropathy post-long-haul diabetes in patients. The therapeutic targets are also highlighted, proving to be a potential cure for such conditions. <P> Methods: Research works were searched from international and national databases with keywords like “diabetes,” “diabetic nephropathy,” “NADPH,” “oxidative stress,” “PKC,” “Molecular mechanisms,” “ cellular mechanisms,” “complications of diabetes,” and “factors.” The databases searched were PubMed, Scopus, Directory of open access journals, Semantic Scholar, Core, Europe PMC, EMBASE, Nutrition, FSTA- Food Science and Technology, Merck Index, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Open, MedlinePlus, Indian citation index, World Wide Science, and Shodhganga. <P> Results: Pathways causing protein kinase C (PKC) activation, free radical injury, oxidative stress, and aggravating the conditions of neuropathy and nephropathy were discussed. In diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy, neurons and nephrons are affected to the extent that their normal physiology is disturbed, thus leading to further complications and conditions of loss of nerve sensation in diabetic neuropathy and kidney failure in diabetic nephropathy. <P> Current treatment options available for the management of diabetic neuropathy are anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and topical medications, including capsaicin. According to AAN guidelines, pregabalin is recommended as the first line of therapy, whereas other drugs currently used for treatment are gabapentin, venlafaxine, opioids, amitriptyline, and valproate. <P> Drug targets for treating diabetic neuropathy must suppress the activated polyol pathways, kinase C, hexosamine, and other pathways, which amplify neuroinflammation. Targeted therapy must focus on the reduction of oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines and suppression of neuroinflammation, NF-&#954;B, AP-1, etc. <P> Conclusion: Potential drug targets must be considered for new research on the treatment of neuropathy and nephropathy conditions.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[IMPDH2 Positively Impacts the Proliferation Potential of Hepatoblastoma Cells
by Activating JunB Signaling Pathway]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138645</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Amplification of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase II, EC 1,1,1,205 (IMPDH2) has been reported in various cancers, which results in transformation and tumorigenicity. In our current work, we have explored the oncogenic properties and the underlying pathophysiology of IMPDH2 in hepatoblastoma (HB). <P> Methods: To investigate IMPDH2 expression in HB tissues and prognostic significance in HB patients, gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA) has been adopted. Immunohistochemistry has also helped to validate the protein expression of IMPDH2 in HB tissues. The effect of IMPDH2 overexpression or depletion on the proliferation of Hepatoblastoma cells in vitro has been evaluated by CCK8 assays and colony formation assays. Xenograft tumor growth of mice has been detected. Luciferase reporter assays have been conducted to determine the interaction of IMPDH2 and JunB, which was further asserted by pharmacological inhibition of JunB. <P> Results: IMPDH2 was highly expressed in HB tissues. Experimentally, the proliferation and colony formation of HuH6 cells were increased by IMPDH2 overexpression. Conversely, genetic inactivation of IMPDH2 impaired the proliferative efficiency and colony-forming rate of HepG2 cells. Besides, the luciferase reporter assay validated IMPDH2 overexpression to be associated with enhanced JunB transcriptional activity, while its activity was diminished in the case of IMPDH2 depletion. JunB inhibitor neutralized the IMPDH2-mediated increased phosphorylation of JunB. <P> Conclusion: Our findings, thus, suggest that IMPDH2 exhibits its oncogenic role in HB partially via JunB-dependent proliferation.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Physalin B Reduces Tau Phosphorylation and Cell Apoptosis in HEK293 Cells
by Activating FoxO1]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133071</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Physalin B (PB) is one of the main active compounds of Solanaceae plants, with a wide range of biological activities. PB reportedly has the potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease (AD). <P> Objective: In this study, we investigated the effect of PB on Tau phosphorylation and cell apoptosis using Tau-expressing HEK293 cells (HEK293/Tau) as a cellular model. <P> Methods: The optimum concentration of PB to treat HEK293/Tau cells was determined using the CCK-8 assay. Additionally, the expression of FoxO1, Tau-5, p-Tau (T231, S262, and S404), ERK, p-ERK, GSK-3&#946;, and p-GSK-3&#946; was detected using western blotting to determine the effect of PB on Tau phosphorylation. The apoptosis rate was detected using flow cytometry, and the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was detected using western blotting and verified using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Moreover, cells were transfected with FoxO1 siRNA to downregulate FoxO1 expression, and the expression of the above-mentioned proteins was detected to verify the effect of PB on Tau phosphorylation and cell apoptosis. <P> Results: After 24 h of PB treatment, the phosphorylation levels of Tau at S404, S262, and T231 sites decreased significantly, and the activities of GSK-3β and ERK were inhibited. PB also reduced cell apoptosis by reducing the expression of Bax and increasing the expression of Bcl-2. In addition, PB decreased Tau phosphorylation and cell apoptosis by upregulating FoxO1. <P> Conclusion: The natural compound PB exhibited a protective effect in the AD cell model by increasing FoxO1 expression and reducing Tau phosphorylation and cell apoptosis.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[SGLT2 Inhibitors and Diabetic Kidney Disease: Targeting Multiple and
Interrelated Signaling Pathways for Renal Protection]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135496</link><description><![CDATA[Almost 20-40% of all patients suffering from diabetes mellitus experience chronic kidney disease, which is related to higher mortality (cardiovascular and all-cause). The implication of several pathophysiological mechanisms (hemodynamic, tubular, metabolic and inflammatory) in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease generates an urgent need to develop multitarget therapeutic strategies to face its development and progression. SGLT2 inhibitors are undoubtedly a practice-changing drug class for individuals who experience type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease. In vitro studies, exploratory research, sub-analyses of large randomized controlled trials, and investigation of several biomarkers have demonstrated that SGLT2 inhibitors achieved multiple beneficial activities, targeting several renal cellular and molecular pathways independent of their antihyperglycemic activity. These mainly include the reduction in intraglomerular pressure through the restoration of TGF, impacts on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, improvement of renal hypoxia, adaptive metabolic alterations in substrate use/energy expenditure, improvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, and reduction of inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. This manuscript thoroughly investigates the possible mechanisms that underlie their salutary renal effects in patients with diabetes, focusing on several pathways involved and the interplay between them. It also explores their upcoming role in ameliorating the evolution of chronic kidney disease in patients with diabetes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nrf2 Mediates Effect of Resveratrol in Ischemia-reperfusion Injury]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138158</link><description><![CDATA[Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury (IRI) is a paradoxical phenomenon where removing the source of injury can cause additional damage. Ischemia reduces ATP production and intracellular pH, reducing oxidative reactions, increasing lactic acid release, and activating anaerobic metabolism. Reperfusion restores aerobic respiration and increases ROS production, leading to malfunction of transmembrane transport, activation of proteases, DNA dissolution, and protein denaturation, leading to apoptotic cell death. Nrf2 is a transcription factor that regulates cellular inflammation and oxidative responses. It is activated by oxidants and electrophiles and enhances detoxifying enzyme expression, maintaining redox homeostasis. It also activates ARE, which activates several ARE-regulated genes that favor cell survival by exhibiting resistance to oxidants and electrophiles. Nrf2 regulates the antioxidant defense system by producing phase II and antioxidant defense enzymes, including HO-1, NQO-1, gglutamylcysteine synthetase, and rate-limiting enzymes for glutathione synthesis. Nrf2 protects mitochondria from damage and supports mitochondrial function in stress conditions. Resveratrol is a stilbene-based compound with a wide variety of health benefits for humans, including antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antitumor, and estrogenic/antiestrogenic. Resveratrol protects against IRI through several signaling pathways, including the Nrf2/ARE pathway. Here, we review the studies that investigated the mechanisms of resveratrol protection against IRI through modulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Review of Phytosomes and Ethosomes: Groundbreaking Approaches for Delivering the Phytochemical Components of Plants]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138877</link><description><![CDATA[Phytoconstituents have been widely used since ancient times to form a complex with phospholipids due to their various therapeutic actions. Despite having strong pharmacodynamic efficiency, numerous phytoconstituents have shown lower <i>in vivo</i> bioavailability and few adverse effects. Phytochemicals soluble in water exhibit poor absorption, leading to a limited therapeutic impact. Phytosome nanotechnology overcomes this limitation by creating a bound of phytochemicals with phospholipids. This method exhibits improved absorption because phytosomes inhibit significant herbal extract components from being degraded by gastric juices and gut flora. This improves bioavailability, increases clinical benefit, and ensures delivery to tissues without compromising nutritional stability. This review also aims to highlight those vesicular systems that could be used in phytosome technology. Additionally, this review highlights the preparation, advantage, characterization, applications, and recent development of phytosome and ethosome with a list of recent patents and marketed formulations and their uses.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of Nanomedicine for Targeted Drug Delivery in Livestock: Future Prospective]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136374</link><description><![CDATA[Nanotechnology has advanced significantly in recent years and is currently used in a wide range of sectors. Only a handful of the many diverse issues covered by nanotechnology include nanoscale gadgets, nanomaterials, nanoparticles, and nanomedicines. Its performance in treating a range of grave conditions, such as cancer, early detection of infections, analysis, bio-imaging, and bio sensing, suggests that it is highly advanced. Nanoscale materials have been employed for medicine delivery, pharmaceutics, and a range of diagnostic techniques due to their various biochemical and physical features. The use of nanoparticles that are based on nanotechnology can significantly improve the drug delivery mechanism. It is believed that nanoparticles capacity to improve the stability and solubility of drugs and shield them from impulsive inactivation during drug transfer makes it possible for them to capture, encapsulate, or bond with the molecules. The use of nanomedicine or nanoparticle-based tactics to combat viruses has emerged as a potentially life-saving tactic. These approaches have the power to protect both humans and animals against viruses. In order to inactivate a virus, nanoparticles have the unique capacity to connect with the virus epitope. Many nanocarriers have the potential to replace current drug delivery methods with focused drug delivery. Small dosages, low toxicity, and targeted flow of drug release at the infected location are all characteristics of nanocarriers or nanomedicine. Due to their distinct physicochemical and biological features, nanomaterial- based drug delivery systems (NBDDS) are frequently employed to enhance the safety and therapeutic efficacy of encapsulated pharmaceuticals. The program’s objective can be supported by the applications that have so far been developed. This idea is therefore essential and sophisticated for the development of civilization. Our research will therefore concentrate on how human use of nanomedicines has changed through time in many domains.]]></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[Prognostic Significance and Functional Mechanism of UTS2 in Glioblastoma Multiforme]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137703</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aim: We aimed to explore the role of urotensin 2 (UTS2) in glioblastoma (GBM). </p> <p> Background: GBM is the most malignant primary brain cancer with a poor prognosis. Previous studies have suggested that GBM vessels undergo dynamic remodeling modulated by tumor vasodilation and vasoconstriction instead of tumor angiogenesis. </p> <p> Objective: Here, we have first investigated the expression and function of UTS2, a potent vasoconstrictor, in GBM. </p> <p> Methods: The mRNA expression profiles and clinical information of GBM patients were obtained from the TCGA database. The clinical relevance of UTS2 was explored by the Mann-Whitney U test and Cox hazard regression survival test. We further explored the role of UTS2 in GBM cell proliferation, migration, and tumor immune microenvironment. Moreover, we established the in vivo mice model to validate its oncogenic effects on GBM progression. </p> <p> Results: Although we did not find significant correlations between UTS2 expression and patients’ clinical characteristics, UTS2 was identified as a valid independent prognostic indicator according to multivariate survival analysis. Knockdown of UTS2 resulted in decreased GBM cell proliferation and migration. In addition, functional enrichment analysis implied UTS2 to be involved in the regulation of the immune microenvironment. <i>In vivo</i> studies showed that UTS2 knockdown suppressed GBM xenograft growth, highlighting the tumor-promoting effects of UTS2 on GBM. </p> <p> Conclusion: Our study identified that UTS2 could predict the prognosis of GBM patients and provided evidence regarding its oncogenic effects both <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Current Progress and Emerging Role of Essential Oils in Drug Delivery Therapeutics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138705</link><description><![CDATA[The utilization of novel drug delivery systems loaded with essential oils has gained significant attention as a promising approach for biomedical applications in recent years. Plants possess essential oils that exhibit various medicinal properties, i.e., anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti- inflammatory, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory, etc., due to the presence of various phytoconstituents, including terpenes, phenols, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, and esters. An understanding of conventional and advanced extraction techniques of essential oils (EOs) from several plant sources is further required before considering or loading EOs into drug delivery systems. Therefore, this article summarizes the various extraction techniques of EOs and their existing limitations. The in-built biological applications of EOs are of prerequisite importance for treating several diseases. Thus, the mechanisms of action of EOs for anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial activities, etc., have been further explored in this article. The encapsulation of essential oils in micro or nanometric systems is an intriguing technique to render adequate stability to the thermosensitive compounds and shield them against environmental factors that might cause chemical degradation. Thus, the article further summarizes the advanced drug delivery approaches loaded with EOs and current challenges in the future outlook of EOs for biomedical applications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Acetaldehyde and Butyrate: Their Biological Effects on the Liver and the
Gut Axis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137756</link><description><![CDATA[<P>The gut is the most accommodating environment in the human body for bacteria. The microbial community there is both dense and varied. The gut microbe forms an axis with the human liver, according to the theory of liver disease causation. The portal vein, systemic circulation, and biliary tract all provide bidirectional connections between the liver and the intestines. The liver secretes bile acid and a wide variety of bioactive mediators into the biliary tract and general circulation. <P> On the other hand, the portal vein carries microbial-produced endogenous compounds from the colon to the liver, where they might disrupt liver function. Acetyl-aldehyde and butyrate are two of the many byproducts produced by the microbiota in the human gut in response to indigestible food. In addition, these two waste products alter liver function and play an important role in maintaining intestinal health in humans. This paper reviews the literature on the link between butyrate and acetyl-aldehyde production in the human gut and the organ's role in the development of liver disease. Butyrate, acetyl-aldehyde, and liver disease all play roles in the gut-liver axis.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Computer Tomography (CT)-based Screening of Hospitalized Patients with
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Complicated by Bronchiectasis
Phenotype during Acute Exacerbation: A Clinical Analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131578</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: In the past, many experts considered chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchiectasis to be separate, chronic respiratory diseases. Nonetheless, the widespread use of high-resolution lung computed tomography (CT) has led to the discovery that these diseases can occur alone or together. <p> Aim: The current study aimed to compare the effects of nutritional status on the clinical outcomes in moderate to severe COPD patients with bronchiectasis. <p> Objective: This study identifies the nutritional risk in hospitalized patients with moderate to severe COPD complicated by bronchiectasis phenotype during acute exacerbation screened using computer tomography (CT). Also, determines its correlation with disease progression. <p> Materials and Methods: NRS 2002 (Nutrition Risk Screening Evaluation Tool) was used to determine and evaluate the nutritional risk status in 182 hospitalized patients with moderate to severe COPD complicated by bronchiectasis phenotype during an acute exacerbation. Selected patients were divided into the nutritional risk (NR) group and the non-nutritional risk (NNR) group according to their nutritional status determined by NRS 2002. The body mass index (BMI), serum albumin (ALB), pre albumin (PAB), lymphocyte count (TLC), FEV1/FVC, FEV1% predicted, PEF% predicted, blood gas analysis, number of acute exacerbations in the past year, number of respiratory failure cases, number of anti-infection days, and length of hospitalization of the two groups were observed. <p> Results: The hospitalized patients in acute exacerbation of moderate to severe COPD complicated by bronchiectasis phenotype had a nutritional risk of 62.64%. BMI, ALB, PAB, TLC, FEV1% predicted, FEV1/FVC, PEF% predicted, blood gas analysis, number of acute exacerbations in the past year, number of respiratory failure cases, number of anti-infection days, and length of hospitalization were statistically significantly different between the NR group and NNR group (P&#60;0.05). <p> Conclusion: Hospitalized patients with moderate to severe COPD complicated by bronchiectasis phenotype during acute exacerbation are often associated with nutritional risk. An increase in nutritional risk reduces the level of pulmonary function of the patient and elevates the risk for repeated acute exacerbations, which predispose the patient to respiratory failure, thereby increasing the length of hospitalization. Therefore, the nutritional risk status of COPD patients with bronchiectasis was closely related to the occurrence, development, and prognosis of the disease.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[7 Tesla MRI Liver Fat Quantification in Mice: Data Quality Assessment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138463</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the robustness of proton density fat fraction (PDFF) data determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) via spatially resolved error estimation. <P> Materials and Methods: Using standard T2* relaxation time measurement protocols, <i>in-vivo</i> and <i>ex-vivo</i> MRI data with water and fat nominally in phase or out of phase relative to each other were acquired on a 7 T small animal scanner. Based on a total of 24 different echo times, PDFF maps were calculated in a magnitude-based approach. After identification of the decisive error-prone variables, pixel-wise error estimation was performed by simple propagation of uncertainty. The method was then used to evaluate PDFF data acquired for an explanted mouse liver and an <i>in vivo</i> mouse liver measurement. <P> Results: The determined error maps helped excluding measurement errors as cause of unexpected local PDFF variations in the explanted liver. For in vivo measurements, severe error maps gave rise to doubts in the acquired PDFF maps and triggered an in-depth analysis of possible causes, yielding abdominal movement or bladder filling as in vivo occurring reasons for the increased errors. <P> Conclusion: The combination of pixel-wise acquisition of PDFF data and the corresponding error maps allows for a more specific, spatially resolved evaluation of the PDFF value reliability.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Multimodal Imaging for the Diagnosis of Massive Left Atrial Metastasis from
Lung Cancer - A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138808</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Secondary cardiac tumors are a rare disease that is hard to detect when the tumor is small and asymptomatic. This case report focuses on a massive pulmonary metastasis filling almost the entire left atrium. Multimodal enhancement imaging, cardiac contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), enhanced electron computed tomography, and positron emission tomography imaging were applied to detect the malignant origin of this case. The aim of this project was to provide an important basis for clinical treatment and decision-making with multimodal imaging. <p> Case Presentation: The patient was hospitalized with suspected to be a lumbar spine fracture. According to the multimodal imaging, pathologically confirmed to suffer a cardiac metastasis from small cell lung cancer. EP-regimen (Etoposide 0.1gd 1-5+Nedaplatin 30mgd 1-4) was selected for the systemic chemotherapy of the patient. During three years of follow-up, the left intra-atrial occupancy was significantly reduced. <p> Conclusion: Multimodality imaging can cover up the deficiencies of single imaging examinations and further clarify and enrich the understanding of the relationship between the location and the surrounding structure of the mass, thus providing a good reference for clinical treatment and decisionmaking.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[nnUNet for Automatic Kidney and Cyst Segmentation in Autosomal Dominant
Polycystic Kidney Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138150</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) is a genetic disorder that causes uncontrolled kidney cyst growth, leading to kidney volume enlargement and renal function loss over time. Total kidney volume (TKV) and cyst burdens have been used as prognostic imaging biomarkers for ADPKD. <p> Objective: This study aimed to evaluate nnUNet for automatic kidney and cyst segmentation in T2-weighted (T2W) MRI images of ADPKD patients. <p> Methods: 756 kidney images were retrieved from 95 patients in the Consortium for Radiologic Imaging Studies of Polycystic Kidney Disease (CRISP) cohort (95 patients × 2 kidneys × 4 follow-up scans). The nnUNet model was trained, validated, and tested on 604, 76, and 76 images, respectively. In contrast, all images of each patient were exclusively assigned to either the training, validation, or test sets to minimize evaluation bias. The kidney and cyst regions defined using a semi-automatic method were employed as ground truth. The model performance was assessed using the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), the intersection over union (IoU) score, and the Hausdorff distance (HD). <p> Results: The test DSC values were 0.96±0.01 (mean±SD) and 0.90±0.05 for kidney and cysts, respectively. Similarly, the IoU scores were 0.91± 0.09 and 0.81±0.06, and the HD values were 12.49±8.71 mm and 12.04±10.41 mm, respectively, for kidney and cyst segmentation. <p> Conclusion: The nnUNet model is a reliable tool to automatically determine kidney and cyst volumes in T2W MRI images for ADPKD prognosis and therapy monitoring.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Current Regulatory Framework and Challenges for the Approval of Complex
Generics in the US and the EU]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136589</link><description><![CDATA[<p>The pharmaceutical industry is witnessing a growing demand for complex generic products, which are generic versions of drugs that possess complex formulations, delivery systems, or active ingredients. However, the approval process for these complex generic products poses unique challenges compared to traditional generics. There is no specific regulatory procedure available for the approval of complex generics, unlike smallmolecule generics and biosimilars. This led to controversial arguments in the past about the scientific evidence needed for applications, which led to lengthy approval processes. The regulatory frameworks that are currently being used for complex generics are debatable and unclear. Complexity in the molecular structure, mechanism of action, route of delivery, and complex manufacturing process makes proving bioequivalence and pharmaceutical equivalence difficult. There is a need for harmonization of the regulatory framework by the agencies to help the generic manufacturers by providing scientific advice, defining the submission requirements for complex products, and fastening the approval process. <p> This review begins by discussing the regulatory landscape surrounding complex generic products in various regions, including the United States and Europe. It examines the specific guidelines and requirements set forth by regulatory authorities to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of these products. Additionally, the review explores the differences in terminology and definitions used to classify complex generics across different jurisdictions. Furthermore, it delves into the challenges faced by both regulatory agencies and pharmaceutical companies in evaluating and approving complex generic products. These challenges include establishing appropriate bioequivalence criteria, determining interchangeability with the reference product, addressing patent and exclusivity issues, and ensuring consistent quality throughout the product lifecycle. The impact of these challenges on market entry and competition is also discussed. The review highlights the need for harmonization and streamlining of regulations for complex generic products worldwide. It emphasizes the importance of clear and consistent guidelines to enable timely approvals, foster innovation, and facilitate patient access to affordable alternatives.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[CAD System Design for Pituitary Tumor Classification based on Transfer
Learning Technique]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135516</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: A brain tumor is an asymmetrical expansion by cells inevitably emulating amid them. Image processing is a vibrant research area where the handing out of the image in the medical field is an exceedingly tricky field. In this paper, an expert algorithm is suggested for the detection of pituitary brain tumors from MR images. <p> Methods: The preprocessing techniques (smoothing, edge detection, filtering) and segmentation techniques (watershed) are applied to the online data set. The transfer learning technique is used as a classifier whose performance is measured in terms of classification accuracy. Resnet 50, Inception V3VGG16, and VGG19 models are used as classification algorithms. The proposed model is validated using different machine learning techniques considering hybrid features. <p> Results: 96% accuracy was obtained employing the Inception V3 model & 95% accuracy was attained using hybrid GLDS and GLCM features employing Support Vector Machine algorithm while 93% was attained using Probabilistic Neural Network and k Nearest Neighbor techniques. <p> Conclusion: Computer-aided systems gave much faster and more accurate results than image processing techniques.1.0% accuracy improvement was observed while using Inception V3 over GLDS + GLCM + SVM and 2.1% accuracy improvement using GLDS + GLCM + SVM over GLDS + GLCM + kNN.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[External Validation of Ultrasound Radiomics for Small (≤ 4 cm) Renal Mass
Differentiation: A Comparison with Radiologists]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136387</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Renal cell carcinoma, especially in small renal masses (≤ 4 cm) (SRM), has increased. Pathological analysis revealed a high proportion of benign masses, highlighting the urgent need for precise SRM differentiation. <P> Objectives: This research aimed to independently validate the performance of machine learning-based ultrasound (US) radiomics analysis in differentiating benign from malignant SRM, and to compare its performance with that of radiologists. <P> Methods: A total of 499 patients from two hospitals were retrospectively included in this study and divided into two cohorts. US images were used to extract radiomics features. To obtain the most robust features, inter-observer correlation coefficient, Spearman correlation coefficient, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator methods were applied for feature selection. Three models were developed in the training data using the stochastic gradient boosting algorithm, including a clinical model, a radiomics model, and a combined model that integrated clinical factors and radiomics features. The performance of these models was evaluated in the independent external validation data, including discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness, and compared with pooled radiologists' assessments. <P> Results: The AUCs of the clinical, radiomics, and combined models were 0.844, 0.942, and 0.954, respectively. The radiomics and combined models significantly outperformed the clinical model (all p &#60; 0.05), while no significant difference was observed between them (p = 0.32). The radiomics and combined models showed good discrimination and calibration. Decision curve analysis exhibited that the combined model had clinical usefulness. Compared with the pooled radiologists’ assessment (AUC, 0.799), the combined model showed superior classification results (p &#60; 0.01) and higher specificity (p &#60; 0.01) with similar sensitivity (p = 0.62). <P> Conclusion: The combined model incorporating clinical factors and radiomics features accurately distinguished benign from malignant SRM.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound of Xanthogranulomatous Endometritis: A Case
Report and Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131702</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Xanthogranulomatous endometritis (XGE) is a rare inflammatory disease, which can easily misdiagnose as cancer in imaging diagnosis. Diagnosis of XGE relies on histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry. <P> Case Presentation: In this study, a case of a 72-year-old female with XGE and elevated CA125 is presented, which was misdiagnosed as endometrial cancer in transvaginal ultrasonography and ovarian cystadenocarcinoma in CT. However, the features of XGE on the contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) were different from that of endometrial cancer. The patient finally underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy. <P> Discussion: The histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry suggested xanthogranulomatous endometritis (histiocytic endometritis). This case report manifests that CEUS may be a new noninvasive diagnostic method for XGE, which may reduce extensive tissue sampling and unnecessary hysterectomies for patients.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Synchronous Double Primary Malignant Tumors and their Possible Shared
Genes: A Rare Clinical Entity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135236</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: This study sought to analyze the <sup>18</sup>F-FDG PET/CT and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) images of synchronous colorectal cancer (CRC) and renal clear cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and identify the shared genes between these two types of cancer through bioinformatic analysis. <p> Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on a patient with synchronous CRC and ccRCC who underwent <sup>18</sup>F-FDG PET/CT and contrast-enhanced CT before treatment. Databases were analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes between CRC and ccRCC, and co-expression genes were extracted for RCC and CRC. <p> Results: <sup>18</sup>F-FDG PET/CT revealed intense metabolic activity in the primary colorectal lesion (SUVmax 13.2), while a left renal mass (diameter = 35 mm) was observed with no significant uptake. Contrast-enhanced CT during the arterial phase showed heterogeneous intense enhancement of the renal lesion, and the lesion washed out earlier than in the renal cortex in the nephrographic and excretory phases, indicating ccRCC. The histopathological results confirmed synchronous double primary malignant tumors. Our bioinformatic analysis results showed that synchronous occurrence of CRC and ccRCC may correlate with simultaneous expression of Carbonic Anhydrase 9 (CA9), integrin-binding sialoprotein (IBSP), and Fibrinogen &#947; chain (FGG). <p> Conclusion: <sup>18</sup>F-FDG PET/CT combined with contrast-enhanced CT is an effective diagnostic tool in evaluating synchronous CRC and RCC. By analyzing this clinical case and conducting bioinformatic analysis, we improved our current understanding of the mechanisms underlying synchronous tumors.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Survey of Denoising, Segmentation and Classification of Pancreatic Cancer
Imaging]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131771</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Pancreatic cancer is one of the most serious problems that has taken many lives worldwide. The diagnostic procedure using the traditional approaches was manual by visually analyzing the large volumes of the dataset, making it time-consuming and prone to subjective errors. Hence the need for the computer-aided diagnosis system (CADs) emerged that comprises the machine and deep learning approaches for denoising, segmentation and classification of pancreatic cancer. <p> Introduction: There are different modalities used for the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, such as Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Multiparametric-MRI (Mp-MRI), Radiomics and Radio-genomics. Although these modalities gave remarkable results in diagnosis on the basis of different criteria. CT is the most commonly used modality that produces detailed and fine contrast images of internal organs of the body. However, it may also contain a certain amount of gaussian and rician noise that is necessary to be preprocessed before segmentation of the required region of interest (ROI) from the images and classification of cancer. <p> Methods: This paper analyzes different methodologies used for the complete diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, including the denoising, segmentation and classification, along with the challenges and future scope for the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. <p> Results: Various filters are used for denoising and image smoothening and filters as gaussian scale mixture process, non-local means, median filter, adaptive filter and average filter have been used more for better results. <p> Conclusion: In terms of segmentation, atlas based region-growing method proved to give better results as compared to the state of the art whereas, for the classification, deep learning approaches outperformed other methodologies to classify the images as cancerous and non- cancerous. These methodologies have proved that CAD systems have become a better solution to the ongoing research proposals for the detection of pancreatic cancer worldwide.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[T1 Mapping and Amide Proton Transfer Weighted Imaging for Predicting
Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients with Rectal Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138395</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Accurate preoperative judgment of lymph node (LN) metastasis is a critical step in creating a treatment strategy and evaluating prognosis in rectal cancer (RC) patients. <p> Objective: This study aimed to explore the value of T1 mapping and amide proton transfer weighted (APTw) imaging in predicting LN metastasis in patients with rectal cancer. <p> Methods: In a retrospective study, twenty-three patients with pathologically confirmed rectal adenocarcinoma who underwent MRI and surgery from August 2019 to August 2021 were selected. Then, 3.0T/MR sequences included conventional sequences (T1WI, T2WI, and DWI), APTw imaging, and T1 mapping. Patients were divided into LN metastasis (group A) and non-LN metastasis groups (group B). The intra-group correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to test the inter-observer consistency. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the differences between the two groups. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between T1 and APT values. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed to assess the differential performance of each parameter and their combination. The difference between AUCs was compared using the DeLong test. <p> Results: The APT value in patients with LN metastasis was significantly higher than in those without LN metastasis group (P=0.020). Also, similar results were observed for the T1 values (P=0.001). The area under the ROC curve of the APT value in the prediction of LN metastasis was 0.794; when the cutoff value was 1.73%, the sensitivity and specificity were 71.4% and 88.9%, respectively. The area under the ROC curve of the T1 value was 0.913; when the cutoff value was 1367.36 ms, the sensitivity and specificity were 78.6% and 100.0%, respectively. The area under the ROC curve of T1+APT was 0.929, with a sensitivity of 78.6% and specificity of 100.0%. <p> Conclusion: APT and T1 values show great diagnostic efficiency in predicting LN metastasis in rectal cancer.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Esophageal Hematoma Mimicking Esophageal Varices after Chewing Betel Nut:
A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134183</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Betel nut chewing is very common in Southeast Asia and other tropical countries. Much clinical evidence suggests that chewing betel nut has proinflammatory and carcinogenic effects, but there are few clinical reports of acute toxicity caused by it, especially involving esophageal damage. <p> Case presentation: We presented a case of a 72-year-old female who was admitted to our hospital for chest pain and hematemesis within several minutes after chewing betel nut. Gastroscopy showed two longitudinal ridge-like mucosal eminences in the esophagus located 20 cm from the incisors down to the gastric cardia, which was similar to varices. At last, a CT scan showed concentric-circle thickening of the esophagus wall, suggesting hematomas. Our treatment included fasting, inhibiting gastric acid and maintaining blood volume. After one week of medical treatment, rechecked gastroscopy showed that esophageal hematomas were gradually absorbed, with the formation of multiple shallow ulcers. <p> Conclusion: The acute toxicity of chewing betel nut can be easily overlooked. Patients who experience chest pain or hematemesis after chewing betel nut products,especially those who take aspirin at the same time, need to be alert to esophageal hematoma.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ultrasound-based Radiomics Predicts Short-term Outcomes in Hepatitis B
Virus-related Acute-on-chronic Liver Failure]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139199</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The prognosis in hepatitis B virus-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is challenging due to heterogeneity. Radiomics may enable noninvasive outcome prediction. <p> Objective: This study aimed to evaluate ultrasound-based radiomics for predicting outcomes in HBV-ACLF. <p> Methods: We enrolled 264 HBV-ACLF patients, dividing them into a training cohort (n=184) and a validation cohort (n=80). From hepatic ultrasound images, 455 radiomic features were extracted. Radiomics-based phenotypes were identified through unsupervised hierarchical clustering. A radiomic signature was developed using a Cox-LASSO algorithm to predict 30-day mortality. Furthermore, we integrated the signature with independent clinical predictors via multivariate Cox regression to construct a combined clinical-radiomic nomogram (CCR-nomogram). Integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) and net reclassification improvement (NRI) assessed performance improvements achieved by adding radiomic features to clinical data. <p> Results: Both clustering and radiomic signature identified two distinct subgroups with significant differences in clinical characteristics and 30-day prognosis. In the training cohort, the signature achieved a C-index of 0.746, replicated in validation with a C-index of 0.747. The CCR-nomogram achieved C-indices of 0.834 and 0.819 for the training and validation cohorts. Incorporating radiomic features significantly improved the CCRnomogram over the signature and clinical-only models, evidenced by IDI of 0.108-0.264 and NRI of 0.292-0.540 in both cohorts (all p0.05). <p> Conclusion: Ultrasound-based radiomics offered prognostic information complementary to clinical data and demonstrated potential to enhance outcome prediction in HBV-ACLF.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Medical Image Processing based on Generative Adversarial Networks: A
Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135375</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have demonstrated superior data generation capabilities compared to other methods, making them popular for use in medical image applications. These features have intrigued researchers in the medical imaging field, resulting in a swift implementation of these techniques in various conventional and novel applications such as image reconstruction, segmentation, detection, classification, and cross-modality synthesis. A comprehensive review of recent medical imaging breakthroughs will benefit researchers interested in this field. In this review, we aimed to introduce the origin, principle, and extended forms of GANs and summarize the state-of-the-art progress of GAN-based medical image processing methods. <p> Methods: We searched the literature for studies on Google Scholar and PubMed using the keywords “Segmentation,” “Classification,” “medical image,” and “generative adversarial network.” Specifically, the initial search revealed 5423 publications after the removal of duplicated and non-accessible fulltext publications. Then, after the title and abstract screening, 680 underwent full-text screening. Finally, 121 studies were included in our final analysis after full-text screening. <p> Results: The date range of the studies covered in this review is from January 1, 2017, to the present. After a thorough screening and qualification assessment, 121 studies involving GAN-based applications in seven areas of medical images were included in the final methodological review. These areas included synthesis, classification, segmentation, conversion, reconstruction, denoising, and lesion detection. We further classified and summarized these papers into clinical applications, classification methods, and imaging modalities. <p> Conclusion: We thoroughly examined the latest research progress of GAN-based medical image augmentation. These techniques effectively alleviate the challenge of limited training samples for medical image diagnosis and treatment models. Furthermore, several critical issues associated with GANs, such as pattern collapse, instability, and lack of interpretability, require attention in future research.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ultrasound Diagnosis of Renal Cell Carcinoma associated with Xp11.2
Translocation/TFE3 Gene Fusion in Children and Adolescents]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133029</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Many studies have reported Xp 11.2 translocation renal cancer in radioimaging,but there is little literature on the evaluation of Xp11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma by ultrasound. <p> Objective: To investigate the ultrasonographic features and diagnostic value of renal cell carcinoma associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion in children and adolescents. <p> Materials and Methods: The clinical and ultrasonographic data of 10 patients with renal cell carcinoma associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion confirmed by pathology in our hospital were analyzed retrospectively. The age ranged from 3 to 18 years old, including 7 males and 3 females. The tumor location, size, boundary, echo, hemorrhage, cystic change, calcification, blood flow, lymph node status and metastasis were mainly observed, and the results were compared with the pathological results. <p> Results: There were 10 masses in 10 cases of renal cell carcinoma associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion, including 4 in the right kidney and 6 in the left kidney; the maximum diameter line is 5-23cm; 9 cases had clear mass boundary (90%); 9 masses (90%) showed mixed cystic and solid masses with high echo of solid components, and 1 mass (10%) showed huge multilocular cystic mass with multiple septations; necrosis and cystic changes were seen in all 10 masses (100%); calcification in 5 masses (50%); blood flow signals were seen in the solid components of the mass (100%). <p> Conclusion: Renal cell carcinoma associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion in children and adolescents are mostly large cystic and solid mixed echo masses, with high echo of solid components, and often accompanied by cystic changes and calcification. Its ultrasonic manifestations have certain characteristics. Color Doppler ultrasound has a certain diagnostic value for this disease.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI Image Characteristics and Radiomics
Characteristics Combined with Machine Learning for Assessment of Functional
Liver Reserve]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138776</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: To investigate the feasibility of image characteristics and radiomics combined with machine learning based on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI for functional liver reserve assessment in cirrhotic patients. <p> Materials and Methods 123 patients with cirrhosis were retrospectively analyzed; all our patients underwent pre-contrast MRI, triphasic (arterial phase, venous phase, equilibrium phase) Gd-EOB-DTPA dynamic enhancement and hepatobiliary phase (20 minutes delayed). The relative enhancement (RE) of the patient's liver, the liver-spleen signal ratio in the hepatobiliary phase (SI liver/ spleen), the liver-vertical muscle signal ratio in the hepatobiliary phase (SI liver/ muscle), the bile duct signal intensity contrast ratio (SIR), and the radiomics features were evaluated. The support vector machine (SVM) was used as the core of machine learning to construct the liver function classification model using image and radiomics characteristics, respectively. <p> Results: The area under the curve was the largest in SIR to identify Child-Pugh group A versus Child-Pugh group B+C in the image characteristics, AUC = 0.740, and Perc. 10% to identify Child-Pugh group A versus Child-Pugh group B+C in the radiomics characteristics, AUC = 0.9337. The efficacy of the SVM model constructed using radiomics characteristics was better, with an area under the curve of 0.918, a sensitivity of 95.45%, a specificity of 80.00%, and an accuracy of 89.19%. <p> Conclusion: The image and radiomics characteristics based on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI can reflect liver function, and the model constructed based on radiomics characteristics combined with machine learning methods can better assess functional liver reserve.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Segmentation Method of Serialized Human Body Slices based on Matting
Strategy and Skeleton Extraction]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131774</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: In this paper, a semiautomatic image segmentation method for the serialized body slices of the Visible Human Project (VHP) is proposed. <p> Methods: In our method, we first verified the effectiveness of the shared matting method for the VHP slices and utilized it to segment a single image. Then, to meet the need for the automatic segmentation of serialized slice images, a method based on the parallel refinement method and flood-fill method was designed. The ROI (region of interest) image of the next slice can be extracted by using the skeleton image of the ROI in the current slice. <p> Results: Utilizing this strategy, the color slice images of the Visible Human body can be continuously and serially segmented. This method is not complex but is rapid and automatic with less manual participation. <p> Conclusion: The experimental results show that the primary organs of the Visible Human body can be accurately extracted.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Application Value of Gemstone Spectral Imaging (GSI) Combined with an
80 mm Wide-body Detector in Head-neck CTA]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135964</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: This study aims to investigate the value of gemstone spectral imaging (GSI) combined with an 80 mm wide-body detector in head-neck CTA. <P> Methods: Ninety patients with head-neck CTA were prospectively selected and randomly divided into a control group and a test group, with 45 patients in each group. The control group was scanned conventionally. With a tube voltage of 100 kVp and detector width of 40 mm, a 70 ml contrast agent was injected at a flow rate of 5.0 ml/s. The test group used GSI. With a tube current fixed of 445 mAs and a detector width of 80 mm, the contrast agent was injected at a flow rate of 3.5 ml/s and 0.6 ml/kg body weight, and the 55 keV virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) were automatically reconstructed. Finally, the target vessel CT values, background noise (BN), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), subjective scores, contrast agent dose, CT dose index volume (CTDIvol), and dose length product (DLP) were recorded. The DLP was converted to the effective dose (ED). <P> Results: The target vessel CT values, BN, SNR, CNR, and subjective scores of the two groups were not statistically significant (all P > 0.05), and the image quality of both groups was the same and met the diagnostic requirements. The contrast agent dose and effective dose (ED) in the test group were approximately 44% and 26% lower than that of the control group, respectively (all P &#60; 0.05). <P> Conclusion: In head-neck CTA examination, the Revolution CT GSI combined with an 80 mm wide-body detector can reduce the contrast agent dose and radiation dose while ensuring image quality.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Efficiency of Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) Elastography in the
Differentiation of Renal Cell Carcinoma and Oncocytoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139801</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Purpose: This study is to investigate the effectiveness of Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography in differentiating radiologically similar renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and oncocytoma in solid masses of the kidney. <P> Methods: The patients with solid renal mass histopathological diagnosed after excision or tru-cat biopsy who underwent a preoperative ARFI elastography of the lesion during a 4-year period were included in this study. Preoperative shear wave velocity (SWV) values were measured in all the lesions. SWV results of RCCs and oncocytomas were compared by an independent t-test, and cut-off, sensitivity and specificity values were calculated. <P> Results: Forty-two of the 60 patients included in the study were men (70%) and, 18 were women (30%), and the mean age was 59.7 ± 14 (27-94) years. Among 46 RCCs (76.6%), 23 and 14 oncocytomas, 5 (23.4%) were located in the right kidney (p:0.34722). Mean SWV values were found to be significantly higher in RCCs (2.87± 0.74 (0.96-4.14) m/s) than oncocytomas (1.83 ± 0.78 (0.80-3.76) m/s) (p <0.001). In the ROC analysis, a cutoff value of 2.29 m/s was found to havean 80.4% sensitivity and a 78.6% specificity for the discrimination of RCCs from oncocytomas. <P> Conclusion: ARFI elastography measurements may be useful in distinguishing RCC and oncocytomas that may have similar solid radiological imaging features.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transperitoneal Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy for Metachronous Contralateral
Adrenal Metastasis from Oligometastatic Renal Cell Cancer: Case Report and
Review of the Literature]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135491</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The definition of oligometastasis is still controversial. Cytoreductive nephrectomy and metastasectomy are important approaches in selected patients with oligometastasis for improving survival. We aimed to present our laparoscopic metastasectomy experience in a rare case of contralateral adrenal metastasis in an oligometastatic kidney tumor. <p> Case Report: A 52-year-old male patient was admitted to our clinic with the diagnosis of an incidental right renal mass. On contrast-enhanced abdominal CT revealed a mass reaching approximately 8 cm in diameter in the right kidney located in the middle pole. On contrast-enhanced thorax, CT showed a metastatic lesion in the left main bronchus bifurcation. The patient underwent an open radical nephrectomy with the diagnosis of an oligometastatic right renal mass. His pathology was reported as clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The patient was referred to the medical oncology clinic for immunotherapy. The metastatic lesion in the lung completely regressed in the follow-up of the patient who was started on Chek point inhibitors. However, he was referred to our clinic after an incidental metachronous mass was detected in the contralateral left adrenal in FDG PET/CT (SUVmax: 6.7) in 1st year. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI was performed to reevaluate and for mass characterization, and a 4 cm mass was observed in the left contralateral adrenal. Laparoscopic metastasectomy was performed for the left adrenal mass. No recurrence or adrenal insufficiency developed in the 6-month follow-up after discharge. <p> Conclusion: Transperitoneal adrenalectomy is a minimally invasive method that can be safely performed in metastatic adrenal masses. Although contralateral adrenal metastasis is rare in ccRCC, it should be kept in mind that adrenal metastasis may develop in the late period in patients with a history of renal cancer.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mechanistic Insight of Innovative Biomarkers for Screening of Type II Diabetes
Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136599</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a compounded, persistent illness symbolized by an increased range of glucose levels in the blood caused by cellular resistance to insulin action, insufficient insulin production by pancreatic -cells, or both. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM), the extremely widespread form of DM, is recorded for almost 85-90% of worldwide cases. T2DM is mostly common in middle-aged and older people, and its causes are multifaceted. The use of efficient and profitable solutions for DM screening is critical to ensure pre-identification and minimising patients' risk of acquiring the life-compromising illness. Identification of innovative biomarkers with test methods of DM is therefore critical in order to establish vigorous, non-invasive, pain-free, highly sensitive, and precise procedures for screening. The purpose of this review article is to mention and review all the necessary biomarkers that play a vital role in disease diagnosis and to highlight the present-day findings of the latest clinically validated and traditional biomarkers and procedures for determining them, which provide cost-efficient options for T2DM screening with early detection. It is concluded that various biomarkers, both conventional and innovative, go hand in hand to diagnose the DM of any type.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Automated Diagnosis of Bone Metastasis by Classifying Bone Scintigrams Using
a Self-defined Deep Learning Model]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137537</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Patients with cancer can develop bone metastasis when a solid tumor invades the bone, which is the third most commonly affected site by metastatic cancer, after the lung and liver. The early detection of bone metastases is crucial for making appropriate treatment decisions and increasing survival rates. Deep learning, a mainstream branch of machine learning, has rapidly become an effective approach to analyzing medical images. <p> Objective: To automatically diagnose bone metastasis with bone scintigraphy, in this work, we proposed to cast the bone metastasis diagnosis problem into automated image classification by developing a deep learning-based automated classification model. <p> Methods: A self-defined convolutional neural network consisting of a feature extraction sub-network and feature classification sub-network was proposed to automatically detect lung cancer bone metastasis, with a feature extraction sub-network extracting hierarchal features from SPECT bone scintigrams and feature classification sub-network classifying high-level features into two categories (i.e., images with metastasis and without metastasis). <p> Results: Using clinical data of SPECT bone scintigrams, the proposed model was evaluated to examine its detection accuracy. The best performance was achieved if the two images (i.e., anterior and posterior scans) acquired from each patient were fused using pixel-wise addition operation on the bladder-excluded images, obtaining the best scores of 0.8038, 0.8051, 0.8039, 0.8039, 0.8036, and 0.8489 for accuracy, precision, recall, specificity, F-1 score, and AUC value, respectively. <p> Conclusion: The proposed two-class classification network can predict whether an image contains lung cancer bone metastasis with the best performance as compared to existing classical deep learning models. The high accumulation of <sup>99m</sup>Tc MDP in the urinary bladder has a negative impact on automated diagnosis of bone metastasis. It is recommended to remove the urinary bladder before automated analysis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Microwave Imaging: Locating Bone Fractures using Patch Antenna of ISM
Band]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138813</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The human skeletal system relies heavily on the integrity of bones, which provide structural support and safeguard vital organs. Accurate detection is paramount for effective diagnosis. Conventional methods for identifying fractures manually are not only time-consuming but also susceptible to errors. <p> Methods: The proposed methodology hinges on a patch antenna operating at 2.4 GHz and a bone phantom housing a simulated fracture, where the antenna is scanned. The collected signals are then processed with Delay-and-Sum (DAS), and Delay-Multiply-and-Sum (DMAS) reconstruction algorithms. The resulting images offer visual insights into the location of fractures. <p> Results: Through experimentation, the efficacy of the images varies considerably in terms of their capacity for noise and artifact suppression. While DAS exhibits reasonable effectiveness, it suppresses noise and artifacts comprehensively. In contrast, DMAS offers clearer and more precise images of bone fractures. <p> Conclusion: In summary, the research introduces a cost-effective and non-invasive strategy for detecting bone fractures. By involving a patch antenna at 2.4 GHz, along with image reconstruction algorithms like DMAS and DAS, one can effectively visualize the location of bone fractures. The experimental results highlight the superiority of DMAS over DAS in terms of contrast resolution, making it a highly promising avenue for fracture detection.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Quantitative Perfusion Analysis of Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound Might Help
Differentiate Benign and Malignant Solid Cystic Lesions of the Kidney: A Case
Report and Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138152</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney (MESTK) is a rare benign lesion that appears as a solid cystic renal lesion or complex renal cystic lesion on medical imaging. There are no definite imaging criteria for METSK diagnosis. <p> Case Presentation: We present a case of a solid cystic renal mass that was evaluated by contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) during an imaging workup. The patient underwent nephrectomy and histopathological confirmation of MESTK. The lesions showed hypoenhancement during the process. Quantitative perfusion analysis showed the septation of the solid cystic lesion to have lower peak enhancement with a longer rise time compared to the normal renal cortex. <p> Discussion: CEUS can visualize the microcirculation of the organ and reconstruction of the vessels. By providing a more detailed visualization of the microvessel, CEUS is a useful tool for further characterizing renal lesions that show indeterminate enhancement on CT. This study determined the time to peak to be shorter for the cancerous lesion than the normal renal cortex, while peak intensity did not differ between the cancerous lesion and the normal renal cortex. <p> Conclusion: Quantitative perfusion analysis of CEUS may be useful for differentiating benign and malignant solid cystic renal masses. Further investigation is needed to determine whether peak intensity is a useful parameter in differentiating benign and malignant solid cystic lesions of the kidney.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Digitalis Purpurea: Hope for Myocardial Infarction Induced by Obesity - A
Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136671</link><description><![CDATA[Digitalis purpurea L. belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. The most significant is digitoxin, a very toxic substance that builds up in the body and is impenetrable in water. For millennia, people have utilized the medication Digitalis to treat cardiac problems induced by obesity. External triggers like strenuous exercise, emotional stress, eating, exposure to extreme weather, sexual activity, coffee and alcohol consumption, and use of cocaine or marijuana temporarily increase the risk of having a myocardial infarction. A person's genetic makeup influences disease progression, the presence of chronic risk factors, and lifestyle choices. Despite various educational programs, the fight against obesity does not appear to be successful. According to WHO (World Health Organisation) statistics, 13 percent of adults over the age of 18 are obese, and 39 percent are overweight. Being overweight or obese significantly raises the chance of developing disorders, including coronary heart disease. Digitalis is primarily used to treat heart conditions. It encourages and stimulates the action of all muscle tissues in cases of clogged heart failure. The herb improves heart nutrient absorption by forcing more blood into the coronaries. Digitalis aids in the repair and regulation of the heart's function when blood circulation is hampered.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Automatic Kidney Stone Composition Analysis Method Based on Dual-energy
CT]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134362</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background The composition of kidney stones is related to the hardness of the stones. Knowing the composition of the stones before surgery can help plan the laser power and operation time of percutaneous nephroscopic surgery. Moreover, patients can be treated with medications if the kidney stone is compounded by uric acid before treatment, which can relieve the patients of the pain of surgery. However, although the literature generally reports the kidney stone composition analysis method base on dual-energy CT images, the accuracy of these methods is not enough; they need manual delineation of the kidney stone location, and these methods cannot analyze mixed composition kidney stones. <P> Objective This study aimed to overcome the problem related to identifying kidney stone composition; we need an accurate method to analyze the composition of kidney stones. <P> Methods In this paper, we proposed the automatic kidney stone composition analysis algorithm based on a dual-energy CT image. The algorithm first segmented the kidney stone mask by deep learning model, then analyzed the composition of each stone by machine learning model. <P> Results The experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm can segment kidney stones accurately (AUC=0.96) and predict kidney stone composition accurately (mean Acc=0.86, mean Se=0.75, mean Sp=0.9, mean F1=0.75, mean AUC=0.83, MR (Exact match ratio)=0.6). <P> Conclusion The proposed method can predict the composition and location of kidney stones, which can guide its treatment. <P> Experimental results show that the weighting strategy can improve kidney stone segmentation performance. In addition, the multi-label classification model can predict kidney stone composition precisely, including the mixed composition kidney stones.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Primary Pulmonary Enteric Adenocarcinoma: Rare Imaging Findings]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138467</link><description><![CDATA[<P> Introduction: Pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma (PEAC) is an extremely rare variant of lung adenocarcinoma characterized by pathological features similar to those of colorectal adenocarcinoma. It is mostly observed on computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET)/CT as solitary or multiple nodules/masses in the lung. It tends to grow rapidly and is difficult to distinguish from lung metastatic colorectal cancer. Herein, we have presented a case of PEAC with special imaging findings. <P> Case Presentation: A chest CT scan of a 72-year-old man with suspected chronic pneumonia revealed a well-defined consolidation in the upper lobe of the left lung. The lesion was slightly enlarged at the 9-month follow-up, and low FDG accumulation was subsequently observed using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT scans. The patient was later diagnosed with PEAC through percutaneous lung biopsy. <P> Conclusion: Our case has demonstrated specific imaging findings of PEAC.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comprehensive Review of <i>Abroma Augusta</i> (Devil's Cotton): Phytochemical
Constituents, Ethnomedicinal Applications, and Pharmacological Properties]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136596</link><description><![CDATA[The nutritional and therapeutic potential of medicinal plants is constantly being investigated. This is especially relevant in today's world, where an increasing number of people are turning to complementary and alternative therapies to address their health-related concerns. Traditional knowledge, as a valuable resource, plays a crucial role in the development of new herbal medicines. <i>Abroma augusta</i> stands out as one such medicinal plant that has a rich history of use in traditional medicine. It has been employed to address a wide spectrum of health issues, including diabetes, menstrual irregularities, respiratory problems, musculoskeletal disorders, urinary ailments, and sexual dysfunctions, among others. While various parts of this plant species are believed to possess pharmacological properties, the active compounds and underlying mechanisms remain largely unexplored. To facilitate the development of innovative drugs for the benefit of individuals, this study places significant emphasis on delving into the phytochemical and ethnomedicinal attributes of <i>A. augusta</i>. Moreover, it seeks to bolster its findings with scientifically validated pharmacological investigations conducted through both <i>in vivo</i> and <i>in vitro</i> methodologies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Evolution of Medical Imaging in the Therapeutics of Patients with Skin
Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137175</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Medical imaging mechanization has reformed medical management, empowering doctors to recognize cancer prematurely and promote patient outcomes. Imaging tests are of significant influence in the detection and supervision of cancer patients. Cancer recognition generally necessitates imaging studies that, in most instances, utilize a trivial amount of radiation. Methodologies such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) are predominant in clinical managerial, incorporating remedy and research. <p> Background: Over recent years, diagnostic imaging has progressed from a state of commencement to an advanced level. Numerous modern imaging procedures have evolved. Although contemporary medical imaging comprises image exhibition together with image refining, computer-aided diagnosis (CAD), image inscribing and conserving, and image transference, the majority of which are embraced in picture documentation and communication processes. <p> Aim: This review targets to encapsulate toxicology information on skin cancer unpredictability essential to interpretation measures, report important factor that helps in defining skin cancer condition, and possible medical care alternatives or medical attention endorsed referring to diverse aspects involving the size and site of malignancy, the complications, patient’s priority and well being. We concisely review various therapy alternatives, methods of radiation autoimmunity, prime observational study designs of medical and distinct radiation resources and cancer risks, and current analysis methodologies and research precision. <p> Conclusion: The detail of this paper covers a brief review of research and evolution in medical imaging discipline and mechanism. This review considers the physiology of melanocytes and the pathogenesis of skin cancer using medical imaging. Also, a description of risk factors, prevention methods, screening, various diagnosis methods and different stages of skin cancer, sub-types and different types of treatment methods is provided in this paper for research and development.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Renal Lesions with Low-level Enhancement on Contrast-enhanced CT Promotes
Early Detection of Drug-induced Kidney Injury in Patients Administered Anticancer
Drugs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139905</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Some patients with cancer-administered anti-cancer drugs may develop renal lesions with low-level enhancement on follow-up abdominal computed tomography (CT). <p> Objective: To explore the clinical significance of renal lesions with low-level enhancement on CT after exposure to anti-cancer drugs. <p> Methods: Medical records of patients with cancer who developed renal lesions on CT after exposure to anti-cancer drugs were retrospectively reviewed. Renal lesions were scored according to the extent of involvement, CT attenuation values of lesions and normal parenchyma were measured on precontrast CT and three phases of contrast-enhanced CT, and changes in serum creatinine (SCr) from one week before exposure to drugs to one week before and after the appearance of renal lesions were recorded. <p> Results: This study included 54 patients (86 lesions). Lesions were slightly lower density on pre-contrast CT, and less enhancing than normal renal parenchyma, especially in the delayed phase. Lesions were wedge-shaped, and involved the renal pyramid and associated renal cortex, as well as, were single or multiple, and occurred in the unilateral or bilateral kidneys. There were patchy and cord-like shadows of increased density in adjacent perirenal adipose tissue. During follow-up, lesions disappeared in 15 patients and persisted in 39 patients without significant progression. There were significant differences in renal lesions and normal renal parenchyma CT attenuation values in each phase of contrast-enhanced CT. Change in SCr level was significantly positively correlated with lesion score. <p> Conclusion: Renal lesions with low-level enhancement on CT suggest early drug-induced kidney injury. These findings will inform clinical decision-making.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Association of Body Composition Parameters Measured by Computed
Tomography with Cancer Stage, Prognosis, and Survival in Patients with Renal
Cell Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139399</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: This study aims to investigate the association of preoperative body composition parameters, measured by computed tomography in patients undergoing surgery for renal cell carcinoma, with its stage and to survey the relationship with postoperative hospitalization duration and survival. <P> Methods: Demographic data, pathology results, cancer stages, and hospitalization duration of 104 patients undergoing surgery at the urology clinic due to renal cell carcinoma between 2019 and 2023 were analyzed retrospectively. On computed tomography scans acquired during diagnosis, visceral adipose tissue, subcutaneous adipose tissue, total adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle area were measured. The ratios of body composition parameters were computed. <P> Results: When the correlation between survival time and body composition in deceased patients was analysed, a moderate but significant correlation was observed between skeletal muscle area value and total adipose tissue / skeletal muscle area ratio (r=0.630, p=0.001; r=0.598, p=0.002). A significant and strong correlation was observed between total adipose tissue value and survival (r=0.704, p<0.001). Subcutaneous adipose tissue / skeletal muscle area was found to be an independent risk factor associated with mortality, and a ratio of 0.98 or less increased the mortality risk approximately 16-fold. <P> Conclusion: The relationship between body composition parameters measured by computed tomography, which can be easily evaluated pre-treatment, and mortality, postoperative recovery and length of hospital stay can be evaluated, giving clinicians an idea about the potential difficulties that patients may encounter during the treatment process. For this purpose, the subcutaneous adipose tissue / skeletal muscle area ratio is the most helpful parameter that can be used.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Correlation between Spectral CT Parameters and Ki67 Expression in
Hepatocellular Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135237</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between quantitative parameters of spectral CT and the Ki67 expression index of tumor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). <P> Methods: A total of 19 patients who underwent preoperative spectral CT dual-phase enhancement and who were diagnosed with HCC by postoperative pathology were prospectively selected. Patients with ≥10% Ki67-positive tumor cells formed a high-Ki67 group, and those with &#60;10% Ki67- positive cells formed a low-Ki67 group. The iodine concentrations (ICs) of the lesion and the descending aorta were measured during the arterial and venous phases. Relative iodine concentration (RIC) was calculated thus: RIC=IC<sub>lesion</sub>/IC<sub>descending aorta</sub>. CT values of the lesions at 40 and 70 keV were measured during the enhanced arterial and venous phases. The slope of the spectral curve (&#955;) was calculated thus: &#955; = (40 keV-70 keV) /(70-30). To compare the differences in quantitative parameters between the high- and low-Ki67 groups, either an independent samples t-test (normal distribution) or a Mann–Whitney U test (non-normal distribution) was used. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the effectiveness of spectral CT parameters in distinguishing between high-Ki67 and low-Ki67 groups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between spectral CT quantitative parameters and Ki67 expression. <P> Results: IC, RIC and λ values for the high-Ki67 group in arterial and venous phases were higher than those for the low-Ki67 group, P &#60; 0.05. IC, RIC, and &#955; values in the arterial phase were 0.83, 0.89, and 0.75, respectively; in the venous phase, the values of these three parameters were 0.76, 0.77, and 0.69, respectively. IC, RIC, and λ were positively correlated with Ki67 expression in both arterial and venous phases, with a highest correlation of 0.82 for arterial-phase RIC. <P> Conclusion: The quantitative parameters of spectral CT in HCC were correlated with Ki67 expression. This finding may make it easier for clinicians to determine whether a tumor is high or low in Ki67 before surgery.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Primary Pulmonary Malignant Meningioma: A Case Report and Literature
Review Focusing on Imaging Findings]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137024</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Primary pulmonary meningioma (PPM) is an extremely rare primary tumor of the lung. The diagnosis should first exclude metastasis of central nervous system MPM by using imaging, and the final diagnosis depends mainly on the tissue pathology and immunohistochemical results. Malignant PPM is even rarer, and a clear pathological definition to distinguish between benign and malignant PPM is lacking. <p> Case Presentation: A 47-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital after a lung mass was found during a physical examination one month earlier. The imaging findings for this patient showed a large mass in the lower lobe of the left lung with bronchial invasion. A contrast-enhanced MRI of the brain was normal. Bronchoscopy shows a mass at the opening of the left lower basal branch, with mucosal infiltration, protrusion, and stenosis of the opening. The patient underwent radical left lung cancer surgery, and the pathology specimens stained with hematoxylin–eosin demonstrated tumor cells with the focal invasion of the bronchial cartilage. Immunohistochemical staining was positive for epithelial membrane antigen(EMA), somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2), progesterone receptor (PR), Ki-67 (5%–10%), CD34, and D2-40 and weakly positive for p53.The pathologic diagnosis was primary pulmonary meningioma (PPM). The tumor marker CA-125 had significantly increased in the 2 months after surgery. <p> Conclusion: Malignant PPM is rarer, and a clear pathological definition to distinguish between benign and malignant PPM is lacking. Potential cases should be comprehensively evaluated based on imaging, laboratory, and pathology results. A long-term regular follow-up will be required to rule out metastasis or recurrence of PPM.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Correlation of Diffusion weighted MR Imaging and ADC Values of Hepatic
Metastasis of Gastrointestinal Stromal and Gastroenteropancreatic
Neuroendocrine Tumors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131996</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: DWI and ADC-mapping was performed to analyze hepatic metastasis of GIST, GEP-NET. <p> Objective: The objective of this study is to present hepatic metastasis of GIST and GEP-NET with Diffusion weighted MR imaging(DWI) and the Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) values of masses. <p> Methods: 18 GIST patients and 8 GEP-NET patients were examined retrospectively. 11 males and 6 females were present in GIST group, 7 males to 5 females were involved in GEP-NET group. 18 primary GIST and 10 hepatic metastasis of GIST, 8 original GEP-NET and 19 hepatic metastasis of GEP-NET; total 55 GIST and GEP-NET masses were analysed by ADC mapping. MR images were acquired by 1,5 T MR units (32 mT/min gradient strength- Achieva; Philips Healthcare, Best, Netherlands and 32 channel GE Signa GE-Wisconsin-USA); by using a 4-8 channel standard phased-array torso XL coil, all images were evaluated by an Abdominal MRI experienced radiologist. DWI was performed in the transverse plane by using spin-echo-planar imaging sequence. <p> Results: No statistical differences were observed between GIST and GEP-NET patients according to age and gender variations. No significant statistical differences were observed according to the diameters and ADC values of GIST and GEP-NET patients. A significant statistical difference was observed between GIST and GEP-NET groups in terms of size of liver metastasis which was significantly higher in GIST patients. All three groups (GIST_Hep. MET, GEP-NET_Liver_Met and normal) were statistically differed according to ADC values. With the ROC curve analysis: Hepatic metastasis of GIST(n=10) and normal liver (n:47) had cut-off value for ADC: 0.925 under AUC: 0.939 with regard to ADC values and regarded 89.4% Sensitivity, 100% Specificity, 100% PPV and 66.7% PPV. ROC curve of GEP NET_ Hepatic metastasis (n=19) group and normal liver (n:47) group presented cut-off value for ADC: 0.860 under AUC: 0.967 correlated to ADC values with 93.6% sensitivity, 89.5% specificity, 95.7% PPV and 85% PPV. <p> Conclusion: High cellular tumors resulted from liver metastasis of GIST and GEP-NET’s, and a positive correlation was observed between ADC values and cellularity/differentiation ratios of metastatic masses.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comparison of Colour Doppler Ultrasound and 2D Ultrasound as Promising
Prediction Methods for the Treatment effect of Patients with Advanced Cervical
Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134359</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: A number of studies have evaluated the effect of colour Doppler ultrasound in patients with cervical cancer. <p> Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of colour Doppler ultrasound and two-dimensional ultrasound of monitoring patients with cervical cancer. <p> Methods: Colour Doppler ultrasound (Experimental group) and two-dimensional ultrasound (Control group) are used to monitor cervical cancer and assess the treatment effects. PFS, CI, HR, DCR, ORR, PR, SD, PD, ROD, sensitivity, and specificity, accuracy between the two groups were collected and analyzed. <p> Results: A total of 50 patients are included in this study, and the results show that PFS (Experimental group (EG) 5.8±2.2 versus Control group (CG) 6.1±2.6), CI (EG 20% versus CG 16%), HR (EG0.31±0.18 versus CG 0.36±0.21), DCR (EG 80% versus CG 84%), ORR(EG 28% versus CG 36%), PR (EG 16% versus CG 20%), SD (EG 48% versus CG 56%), PD (EG 12% versus CG 16%) (EG 12% versus CG 16%), ROD(EG 44% versus CG 52%) between the two groups are >0.05, and the values of sensitivity (EG 75.6% versus CG 40.2%), specificity (EG 78.4% versus CG 43.3%), and accuracy(EG 80.5% versus CG 41.4%) between the two groups are<0.05. <p> Conclusion: Both Colour Doppler ultrasound and two-dimensional ultrasound are effective methods to evaluate the efficacy of concurrent chemo-radiotherapy in patients with cervical cancer.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Development of a Mind Map-based Predictive Nursing Protocol and its Impact
on the Clarity of Images in Patients Undergoing High-concentration Contrast
Three-dimensional Computed Tomography Imaging of Liver Blood Vessels]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137023</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: To explore the development of a mind map-based predictive nursing protocol and assess its impact on the quality of images in patients undergoing high-concentration contrast three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) imaging of liver blood vessels. <p> Methods: A total of 600 patients who were admitted to Beijing You an Hospital were chosen for this prospective study and underwent high-concentration contrast three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood vessels between April 2021 and December 2021. The patients were divided into two groups using the digital table method, with 300 cases. The control group received conventional nursing intervention, while the research group was provided with a mind map-based predictive nursing protocol. We recorded the image quality of three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood vessels, satisfaction scores regarding nurse examination guidance, and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) in both groups. <p> Results: The research group achieved a perfect rate of 100.00% for the high-quality three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood vessels, which was noticeably higher compared to the rate of the control group of 98.67%. Patients in the research group expressed higher satisfaction levels regarding the guidance provided by nurses, including their attitude, timeliness, accuracy, and overall satisfaction, compared to the control group. Initially, the two groups had no notable differences in the SAS and SDS scores. However, after the intervention, both groups experienced a significant decrease in SAS and SDS scores, with the research group showing an even more substantial decline. <p> Conclusion: Through the creation of a mind map-based predictive nursing protocol and its implementation on patients undergoing high-concentration contrast three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood vessels, it is possible to significantly enhance the quality of CT scans, alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression, increase patient satisfaction with examination guidance by nurses, and effectively decrease the occurrences of contrast agent leakage and allergic reactions to iodine.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[mSegResRF-SPECT: A Novel Joint Classification Model of Whole Body Bone
Scan Images for Bone Metastasis Diagnosis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138786</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Whole-body bone scanning is a nuclear medicine technique with high sensitivity used for the diagnosis of bone-related diseases [e.g., bone metastases] that can be obtained by positron emission tomography (PET) or single-photon emission computed tomography[SPECT] imaging, depending on the different radiopharmaceuticals used. In contrast to the high sensitivity of the bone scan, it has low specificity, which leads to misinterpretation, causing adverse effects of unwarranted intervention or interruption to timely treatment. <p> Objective: To address this problem, this paper proposes a joint model called mSegResRF-SPECT, which accomplishes for the first time the task of classifying whole-body bone scan images on a public SPECT dataset [BS-80K] for the diagnosis of bone metastases. <p> Methods: The mSegResRF-SPECT adopts a multi-bone region segmentation algorithm to segment the whole body image into 13 regions, ResNet34 as an extractor to extract the regional features, and a random forest algorithm as a classifier. <p> Results: The experimental results of the proposed model show that the average accuracy, sensitivity, and F1 score of the model on the BS-80K dataset reached SOTA. <p> Conclusion: The proposed method presents a promising solution for better bone scan classification methods.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Imaging Characteristics of Clear Cell Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma:
Identifying the Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138149</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: This study aimed to describe the characteristics of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma (CCPRCC). <p> Methods: This retrospective study comprised 27 patients diagnosed with 29 tumors of CCPRCC. The study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee and the requirement for the informed consent was waived. The inclusion criteria stipulated pathology-confirmed CCPRCCs with at least one preoperative imaging examination, including CT or MRI. Two experienced radiologists independently analyzed the imaging characteristics, including size, location, growth mode, morphology, texture, density, and enhancement pattern. Paired t-test was used to compare differences in CT Hounsfield unit values and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) imaging between the tumor and the renal cortex. <p> Results: The mean age of the 27 patients was 57.0 ± 14.2 years. Nineteen patients underwent CT, while 12 underwent MRI (There are 4 patients underwent not only CT but also MRI). Among the cases, 26 (96%) were single, and 1 (4%) was multiple, consisting of three lesions. Out of the 29 tumors, 15 (52%) were located in the left kidney and 14 (48%) in the right kidney. The mean tumor diameter was 3.3 ± 1.7 cm. Furthermore, 19 (66%), 3 (10%), and 7 (24%) tumors were solid, cystic, mixed solid, and cystic type, respectively. The growth mode was endogenous and exogenous in 8 (28%) and 21 (72%) tumors, respectively. The tumor shape was irregular and round in 5 (17%) and 24 (83%) tumors, respectively. The CT value of the tumor was approximately 33.2 ± 9.8 HU, which was not significantly different from that of the renal cortex(31.1 ± 6.3HU)(p = 0.343). Furthermore, 7 (24%), 12 (41%), and 3 (10%) had calcification, cystic degeneration, and hemorrhage, respectively. In 12 tumors, hypointense and hyperintense were predominant on T1 and T2-weighted images, respectively. The tumor capsule was found at the edge of 12 tumors. The average ADC value of the tumor (1.54 ± 0.74 × 10<sup>−3</sup> mm<sup>2</sup>/s) and that of the renal cortex(1.68 ± 0.63×10–3mm2 /s) was not statistically significantly different (p = 0.260). The enhancement scanning revealed “wash-in and wash-out” enhancement in 19 (68%) tumors, continuous or progressive enhancement in 6 (21%) tumors, and enhanced cystic wall and central separation in 3 (11%) tumors. <p> Conclusion: CCPRCC occurs more likely in middle-aged and elderly individuals, and the tumor is prone to cystic degeneration, with rare bleeding and calcification, and no obvious limitation on MRI diffusion-weighted imaging, which enhancement form performs as mainly “wash-in and washout,” but the final diagnosis depends on histopathology.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Deep Learning-based Automated Knee Joint Localization in Radiographic
Images Using Faster R-CNN]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135374</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Osteoarthritis is a condition that poses a risk to the knee joint, resulting in pain and impaired function. However, traditional knee X-ray evaluations using the Kellgren-Lawrence grading system have proven to be inefficient. These evaluations are subjective, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, particularly in busy hospital settings. <p> Objective: The objective of this research was to present a deep learning-based approach that can detect knee joint regions in medical images. By addressing the limitations of traditional methods, the aim was to develop a more efficient and automated approach for knee joint analysis. <p> Methods: The proposed method utilizes the Faster R-CNN model, which consists of a region proposal network (RPN) and Fast R-CNN. The RPN generates region proposals that potentially contain knee joint regions, while the Fast R-CNN network categorizes and extracts features from these proposals. To train the model, a dataset of knee joint images was employed. The performance of the model was evaluated using metrics, such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and mean IoU (Intersection Over Union). <p> Results: The results demonstrated the high accuracy of the proposed method in detecting knee joint regions. The model achieved a mean IoU of 94.5, indicating a strong overlap between the predicted and ground truth regions. These findings highlight the potential of deep learning-based approaches in automating medical image analysis, specifically in the diagnosis and management of knee joint disorders. <p> Conclusion: This study emphasizes the significance of leveraging advanced technologies, such as deep learning, in medical imaging. By developing more efficient and accurate methods for identifying knee joint regions in medical images, it becomes feasible to enhance patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. The proposed deep learning-based approach showcases promising results, paving the way for further advancements in the field of medical image analysis and contributing to improved diagnostic capabilities for knee joint disorders.</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[Radiomic Analysis of Contrast-Enhanced CT Predicts Glypican 3-Positive
Hepatocellular Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139008</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The Glypican 3 (GPC3)-positive expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is associated with a worse prognosis. Moreover, GPC3 has emerged as an immunotherapeutic target in advanced unresectable HCC systemic therapy. It is significant to diagnose GPC3-positive HCCs before therapy. Regarding imaging diagnosis of HCC, dynamic contrast-enhanced CT is more common than MRI in many regions. <P> Objective: The aim of this study was to construct and validate a radiomics model based on contrast-enhanced CT to predict the GPC3 expression in HCC. <P> Methods: This retrospective study included 141 (training cohort: n = 100; validation cohort: n = 41) pathologically confirmed HCC patients. Radiomics features were extracted from the Artery Phase (AP) images of contrast-enhanced CT. Logistic regression with the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regularization was used to select features to construct radiomics score (Rad-score). A final combined model, including the Rad-score of the selected features and clinical risk factors, was established. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, Delong test, and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) were used to assess the predictive performance of the clinical and radiomics models. <P> Results: 5 features were selected to construct the AP radiomics model of contrast-enhanced CT. The radiomics model of AP from contrast-enhanced CT was superior to the clinical model of AFP in training cohorts (P &#60; 0.001), but not superior to the clinical model in validation cohorts (P = 0.151). The combined model (AUC = 0.867 vs. 0.895), including AP Rad-score and serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) levels, improved the predictive performance more than the AFP model (AUC = 0.651 vs. 0.718) in the training and validation cohorts. The combined model, with a higher decision curve indicating more net benefit, exhibited a better predictive performance than the AP radiomics model. DCA revealed that at a range threshold probability approximately above 60%, the combined model added more net benefit compared to the AP radiomics model of contrastenhanced CT. <P> Conclusion: A combined model including AP Rad-score and serum AFP levels based on contrast-enhanced CT could preoperatively predict GPC3-positive expression in HCC.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Radiological Features of Rare Non-odontogenic Lesions of the Jaws]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134204</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The jaws can be affected by several lesions that manifest in the oral cavity, but little is known about non-odontogenic benign and malignant lesions and their radiological findings. <P> Introduction: Our aim was to discuss the imaging findings of non-odontogenic jaw lesions to help the surgeon in the diagnosis and formulating a differential diagnosis for this vast spectrum of jaw lesions with overlapping clinical and imaging appearances. <P> Methods: CT and MR images of the mandible, maxillofacial region, and neck were retrieved from the archive of the Radiology Department of Pamukkale University for the duration between 2012-2023 and assessed. <P> Results: A total of 8125 CT and MR images were retrospectively analyzed. The mean age of the patients was 39.5 years in females and 43.2 in males, with a range varying from 15 to 72 years. Histopathologically approved benign and malignant non-odontogenic lesions were detected in only 19 patients out of 8125 images (0.23%). Osteomyelitis and abscess were the most common (n=3; 0.03%), followed by two cases (n=2; 0.02%) of each fibrous dysplasia, hemangioma, osteosarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and multiple myeloma, and one case (n=1; 0.01%) of each ossifying fibroma, osteoma, lymphoma, metastasis, and solitary bone cyst. <P> Conclusion: Although non-odontogenic benign and malignant lesions of the jaw are rare, awareness of the radiological features of these lesions plays an important role in their diagnosis and management.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Value of Radiological Imaging in Assessing Extrarenal Fat and Renal Vein
Invasion in Renal Cell Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135514</link><description><![CDATA[Renal cell carcinoma with extrarenal fat (perinephric or renal sinus fat) and renal vein invasion is the main evidence for the T3a stage according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging system. Extrarenal fat invasion of renal cell carcinoma is defined as the presence of perinephric fat invasion or renal sinus fat invasion. Renal vein invasion is defined as the presence of main or segmental (branch) renal vein invasion. Accurate assessment of extrarenal fat and renal vein invasion is crucial for urologists to adopt the optimal therapeutic schedule, including radical nephrectomy or nephron-sparing treatments. Currently, imaging is still the most widely used means of examination for diagnosis and staging of renal cell carcinoma, especially multidetector computed tomography (MDCT). Therefore, we have, herein, summarized the latest progress and the future direction regarding imaging for assessing perinephric or renal sinus fat and renal vein invasion of renal cell carcinoma to assist clinical treatment selection and patient risk stratification.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Dual-energy CT Portal Venography: Clinical Application Values and Future
Opportunities]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138644</link><description><![CDATA[Standard multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) uses a single X-ray tube to emit a mixed energy X-ray beam, which is received by a single detector. The difference is that dual-energy CT (DECT), a new equipment in recent years, employs a single X-ray tube or two X-ray tubes to emit two single-energy X-ray beams, which are received by a single or two detectors. The application of dual-energy technology to portal venography has become one of the research hotspots. This paper will elaborate on the clinical application values of DECT portal venography in improving portal vein image quality, distinguishing the nature of portal vein thrombus, reducing contrast agent dose and radiation dose, and will discuss the possibility of its movement from research to routine practice and future development opportunities.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effect of Liver Segments and Hepatic Fibrosis Grade on Repeatability,
Reliability, and Diagnostic Efficiency of Intravoxel Incoherent Motion]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139201</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging (IVIM-DWI) is considered a potential marker of hepatic fibrosis (HF). <p> Objective: To explore the influencing factors of repeatability and reliability in IVIM-DWI parameters of ROI-based liver segments in participants with HF and healthy volunteers (HV) and to assess the diagnostic efficiency of these parameters in HF. <p> Methods: Participants with early HF (EHF, n=59) or advanced HF (AHF, n=38) and HV (n=48) were recruited. Two examiners measured IVIM data using mono-, bi-exponential and stretched exponential models. The results and influencing factors of repeatability and reliability of IVIM-DWI, and the diagnostic efficiency were analyzed. <p> Results: The repeatability of D* (CV: 26.62–41.47%) and DDC (CV: 18.01–34.40%) was poor, the repeatability of ADC (CV: 4.95–9.76%), D (CV: 7.09–15.52%), f (CV: 9.35–17.15%), and α (CV: 7.48–13.81%) was better; ordered logistic regression showed statistically significant results of IVIM-derived parameters; the reliability showed no obvious trend, and ordered logistic regression showed statistically significant results of IVIMderived parameters, groups, and partial hepatic segments (all p&#60;0.001). IVIM-derived parameters with relatively good repeatability (CV&#60;20%) and reliability (ICC>0.4) were used to establish regression models for differential diagnosis. The AUC of regression models was 0.744–0.783 (EHF vs. AHF), but no statistically significant parameters were found in the HV vs EHF comparison. <p> Conclusion: IVIM-derived parameters were the most important factors affecting the repeatability and reliability, while staging of HF and hepatic segments may be the influencing factors of reliability. IVIM-derived parameters showed medium diagnostic efficiency in distinguishing between EHF and AHF.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Randomized Comparison of Transradial and Transfemoral Approach in
Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131699</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) has been popular for treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there are few reports comparing the transradial approach (TRA) and transfemoral approach (TFA) in HAIC. <P> Objective: This study aimed to compare the duration of the hepatic artery catheterization, fluoroscopy time (FT), radiation exposure, safety, and quality of life associated with the procedure in patients undergoing HAIC via TRA and TFA. <P> Methods: This prospective, single-center, randomized, controlled study included 120 patients with unresectable HCC undergoing HAIC procedures. Patients were randomly assigned to group A (n = 60, TRA-HAIC) or group B (n = 60, TFA-HAIC). The hepatic artery catheterization time, FT, entrance surface dose (ESD), dose area product (DAP), procedure-related complications, and quality of life associated with the procedure were assessed between the two groups. Independent-sample t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to assess differences. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. <P> Results: HAIC procedures were successfully performed in both groups. The hepatic artery catheterization time (19.35 ± 5.84 vs. 18.93 ± 5.62 minutes, P = 0.837), FT (2.35 ± 2.23 vs. 2.25 ± 2.16 minutes, P = 0.901), ESD (259.32 ± 167.46 vs. 250.56 ± 170.58 mGy, P = 0.449), and DAP (125.37 ± 60.65 vs. 120.56 ± 64.33 Gy.cm3, P = 0.566) were comparable between the two groups. The incidence of artery occlusion (10.0% vs. 0%, P < 0.001) in the TRA group was significantly higher than that in the TFA group. TRA was associated with a statistically significant (P < 0.05) improvement in the quality of life. <P> Conclusion: TRA to HAIC was associated with greater improvement in the quality of life associated with the procedure compared with TFA. Both approaches to HAIC had similar efficiency, safety, radiation exposure, and procedure duration.</P>]]></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[Prenatal Ultrasound Diagnosis and Clinical Analysis of Fetal Small Bowel
Obstruction]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135965</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Fetal small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a serious condition with high morbidity and mortality rates. Prenatal ultrasound is an important tool for detecting SBO, but the optimal cutoff value for intestinal diameter remains undefined. <p> Objective: This study aimed to investigate the ultrasonic characteristics of fetal SBO and determine the optimal cutoff value for intestinal diameter to enhance prenatal ultrasound diagnosis. <p> Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the ultrasonic characteristics and postpartum data of 76 cases diagnosed with SBO. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to identify the optimal cutoff value for dilated intestinal diameter. <p> Results: Among the 76 cases, 31 displayed the “double bubble sign” on ultrasound, with 20 cases identified as annular pancreas, 6 as duodenal atresia, and 5 as duodenal membranous stenosis. In 45 cases, the lesions were located in the jejunal or ileal segment and exhibited intestinal dilatation above the lesion site, including 27 cases of small bowel atresia, 7 cases of membranous jejunal stenosis, and 11 cases of small bowel volvulus. Out of the 76 cases, 9 showed no abnormalities after birth. ROC curve analysis determined optimal cutoff values of 17.5mm and 10.5mm for predicting “double bubble sign” lesions in the gastric and duodenal widths. For predicting small intestinal dilatation, the optimal cutoff values for dilated width and length of the intestinal tube were 11.5mm and 21.5mm, respectively, with high sensitivity and specificity. <p> Conclusion: Ultrasonic imaging and changes in intestinal diameter provide valuable information for prenatal diagnosis and management of SBO. Establishing these cutoff values can improve the accuracy of prenatal ultrasound diagnosis for SBO.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Computational Molecular Docking and <i>In-Silico</i>, ADMET Prediction Studies of
Quinoline Derivatives as EPHB4 Inhibitor]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138993</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The creation and development of novel chemical entities is made possible by numerous computer-aided drug design techniques. The ability to visualize the ligand-target interaction and forecast the important holding pocket locations and affinities of ligands to their intended macromolecules is made possible by pharmacophore-based drug design and understanding <i>in-silico</i> methodologies. <P> Objective: The aim of the current investigation was to find novel 2-chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide derivatives that target the Ephrin B4 (EPHB4) receptor to treat cancer. <P> Materials and Methods: Chem Axon Marvin Sketch 5.11.5 was used to create derivatives of 2-chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide. The physicochemical characteristics of compounds as well as their toxicity were predicted using SwissADME& the admet SAR online software’s. Molecular docking technology was used to examine the ligand-receptor interactions of 2-chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide derivatives with the target receptor (PDB- 6FNM) using a variety of software’s, including Autodock1.1.2,Procheck, ProtParam tool, Biovia Discovery Studio Visualizer v20.1.0.19295, MGL Tools 1.5.6, PyMOL, and were all included. <P> Results: All developed compounds were determined to be orally bioavailable, less toxic, and have acceptable pharmacokinetic properties according to in silico studies. In comparison to the traditional medication Erdafitnib, all new compounds displayed higher docking scores. <P> Conclusion: The increase in binding energy and the number of H-bonds created by novel derivatives with interactions at distances below 3.40A provide a helpful starting point for formulating and synthesizing compounds that are most suitable for additional research. The application of the 2- chloroquinoline-3-carboxamide moiety as a potential new cancer treatment candidate is supported by its pharmacokinetics &toxicological profile, which may aid medicinal chemists in conducting more in-depth in vitro, in vivo chemical and pharmacological studies.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Uremic Toxins Elimination from Simulated Intestinal Serum with Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Coupled with Molecularly Imprinted Polymers and Amino Linker]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138313</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: One of the most researched issues is the elimination of uremic toxins from the human body. These toxins can build up and lead to catastrophic issues including renal failure. To get rid of them, absorbents like activated carbon, zeolites, and other minerals are frequently utilized. </p> <p> Methods: Mesoporous silica nanoparticles functionalized with (3-Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) linker (MSN-NH<sub>2</sub>) and mesoporous silica nanoparticles grafted with molecularly imprinted polymers (MSN-MIP) from the previous study were examined in this study to determine how well they absorbed urea, creatinine, and uric acid in a simulated intestinal serum. </p> <p> Results: MSN-MIP's large surface area (879.12 (m<sup>2</sup>/g)) and volume of pores (0.8475 (cm<sup>3</sup>/g)) made removal results that were satisfactory in the simulated serum. Additionally, MSN-MIP demonstrated a high urea adsorption capacity (q<sub>m</sub> = 1836.45 mg/g). Creatinine (q<sub>m</sub> = 1529.5 mg/g) and uric acid (q<sub>m</sub> = 1210.6 mg/g) were absorbed via NH-MSN2, which demonstrated a noticeable potential for absorption. The results of cell viability test for the first 72 hours, showed that the use of these absorbents in hemodialysis systems is acceptable. </p> <p> Conclusion: Synthesized adsorbents can be utilized in the hemodialysis system since the results of the cell viability test also showed that the percentage of cell viability was extremely high up to 72 hours.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Improving Women's Health and Immunity: A Thorough Mapping Micronutrients and Dietary Recommendations]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138610</link><description><![CDATA[In particular, throughout life, women's health depends on having an ideal micronutrient level. Thus, pregnancy outcomes and the long-term health of a woman's offspring are significantly influenced by her physical and nutritional well-being during the preconception stage. Various nutrients are required in sufficient amounts to fulfill the requirements at the various phases in the life of females. Our analysis of the state of nutrition shows illnesses connected to micronutrient deficiencies, particularly anemia and its related deficiencies. Peer-reviewed publication databases and publicly available data from international and national sources were targeted in a structured literature search to sort out the direct or indirect association between the different micronutrients, their levels, sources and significance in the various stages of life of females. The goal of the current review is to identify any direct or indirect relationships between the numerous micronutrients, their sources, concentrations, and importance at different phases of female development.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Single-cell Technology in Stem Cell Research]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137519</link><description><![CDATA[Single-cell technology (SCT), which enables the examination of the fundamental units comprising biological organs, tissues, and cells, has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in the field of biology, with a profound impact on stem cell research. This innovative technology opens new pathways for acquiring cell-specific data and gaining insights into the molecular pathways governing organ function and biology. SCT is not only frequently used to explore rare and diverse cell types, including stem cells, but it also unveils the intricacies of cellular diversity and dynamics. This perspective, crucial for advancing stem cell research, facilitates non-invasive analyses of molecular dynamics and cellular functions over time. Despite numerous investigations into potential stem cell therapies for genetic disorders, degenerative conditions, and severe injuries, the number of approved stem cell-based treatments remains limited. This limitation is attributed to the various heterogeneities present among stem cell sources, hindering their widespread clinical utilization. Furthermore, stem cell research is intimately connected with cutting-edge technologies, such as microfluidic organoids, CRISPR technology, and cell/tissue engineering. Each strategy developed to overcome the constraints of stem cell research has the potential to significantly impact advanced stem cell therapies. Drawing on the advantages and progress achieved through SCT-based approaches, this study aims to provide an overview of the advancements and concepts associated with the utilization of SCT in stem cell research and its related fields.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Research Progress on the Application of Nanocellulose in Glucose Sensing]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138524</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Nanocellulose is not only a biocompatible and environmentally friendly material but also has excellent mechanical properties, biodegradability, and a large number of hydroxyl groups that have a strong affinity for water. These characteristics have attracted significant attention from researchers in the field of glucose sensing. </p> <p> Objective: This review provides a brief overview of the current research status of traditional materials used in glucose sensors. The sensing performance, chemical stability, and environmental properties of nanocellulose-based glucose sensors are compared and summarized based on the three sensing methods: electrochemical sensing, colorimetric sensing, and fluorescence sensing. The article focuses on recent strategies for glucose sensing using nanocellulose as a matrix. The development prospects of nanocellulose-based glucose sensors are also discussed. </p> <p> Conclusion: Nanocellulose has outstanding structural characteristics that contribute significantly to the sensing performance of glucose sensors in different detection modes. However, the preparation process for high-quality nanocellulose is complicated and has a low yield. Furthermore, the sensitivity and selectivity of nanocellulose-based glucose sensors require further improvement.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chemistry, Isolation, and Pharmaceutical Applications of Inulin]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137261</link><description><![CDATA[Inulin (IN) is a prebiotic oligosaccharide reported in diverse sources of nature. The major sources encompass chicory, Jerusalem artichoke, onions, barley, garlic, rye, and wheat. The literature also reported its promising biological activities, e.g., antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, immuneregulator and prebiotic for improving intestinal function, regulation of blood lipids, and so on. IN’s molecular flexibility, stabilization, and drug-targeting potential make it a unique polymer in pharmaceutical sciences and biomedical engineering. Further, its nutritional value and diagnostic application also widen its scope in food and medical sciences. The hydroxyl groups present in its structure offer chemical modifications, which could benefit advanced drug delivery such as controlled and sustained drug delivery, enhancement of bioavailability, cellular uptake, etc. This work reviews the isolation and purification of IN. The study also provides glimpses of the chemistry, chemical modification, and applications in pharmaceutical sciences and drug delivery.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Intravaginal Delivery of Herbal Pharmaceutical Interventions for Uncomplicated UTIs in Women]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137357</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Urinary tract infection (UTIs) is the most common infection in women affecting approximately 75% of women worldwide during their pregnancy, and in pre and postmenopausal women. Typical symptoms include urinary frequency, urgency, suprapubic discomfort, and dysuria. </p> <p> Method: An introduction to the epidemiology of UTIs and detailed herbal nanoformulation treatment approach through novel intravaginal route is intended through this narrative review. UTIs are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and they affect the quality of life of the affected patients. Multidrug-resistant bacteria and recurrent UTIs are becoming more common. Development of resistance, adverse effects of antibiotics, and other associated problems lead to establishing the research framework to find out the alternative approaches in controlling UTIs. Antibiotic- free treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infections UTIs should be used, saving drugs for severe infections. Herbal medication might be used instead of antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs, in addition to analgesics for purely symptomatic treatment. </p> <p> Conclusion: This review identifies the pathophysiology of UTI, distinguish the intravaginal route as an alternative to oral delivery route, summarizes the management of urinary tract infections and highlights the anti-uropathogenic and anti-bactericidal effects of herbal approaches to prevent or treat urinary tract infections.</p>]]></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[Activation of the Complement Lectin Pathway by Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Induction of Pro-inflammatory Immune Response by Macrophages]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136306</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aims: Nanoparticles are important agents for targeted drug delivery to tissues or organs, or even solid tumour in certain instances. However, their surface charge distribution makes them amenable to recognition by the host immune mechanisms, especially the innate immune system, which interferes with their intended targeting, circulation life, and eventual fate in the body. We aimed to study the immunological response of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe-NPs) and the role of the complement system in inducing an inflammatory cascade. </p> <p> Background: The complement system is an important component of the innate immune system that can recognise molecular patterns on the pathogens (non-self), altered self (apoptotic and necrotic cells, and aggregated proteins such as beta-amyloid peptides), and cancer cells. It is no surprise that clusters of charge on nanoparticles are recognised by complement subcomponents, thus activating the three complement pathways: classical, alternative, and lectin. </p> <p> Objective: This study aimed to examine the ability of Fe-NPs to activate the complement system and interact with macrophages <i>in vitro</i>. </p> <p> Methods: Complement activation following exposure of Fe-NPs to macrophage-like cell line (THP-1) was analyzed by standard protocol. Real-time PCR was used for mRNA-level gene expression analysis, whereas multiplex cytokine array was used for protein-level expression analysis of cytokines and chemokines. </p> <p> Results: Fe-NPs activated all three pathways to a certain extent; however, the activation of the lectin pathway was the most pronounced, suggesting that Fe-NPs bind mannan-binding lectin (MBL), a pattern recognition soluble receptor (humoral factor). MBL-mediated complement activation on the surface of Fe-NPs enhanced their uptake by THP-1 cells, in addition to dampening inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and soluble immune ligands. </p> <p> Conclusion: Selective complement deposition (mostly <i>via</i> the MBL pathway in this study) can make pro-inflammatory nanoparticles biocompatible and render them anti-inflammatory properties.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Predicting the Pharmacological Targets of <i>Astragalus membranaceus</i> against Hypertensive Nephropathy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138801</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: Hypertension is one of the main causes of chronic kidney disease. Astragalus membranaceus (AM), an important traditional Chinese medicine for treating hypertensive nephropathy, has a complex composition that makes it challenging to explore its mechanism of action and limits its clinical application. This study aims to investigate the underlying mechanism of AM in treating hypertensive nephropathy. </p> <p> Methods: We retrieved all the compound data of AM from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database and screened out the active compounds and their target proteins. Then, a network of candidate compounds and target compounds of AM was constructed using Cytoscape software. Furthermore, hypertensive nephropathy-related genes from the DisGeNET and GeneCards databases were intersected with AM target proteins and hypertensive nephropathy-related genes to determine the potential targets of AM in treating hypertensive nephropathy. Finally, after performing Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses, we conducted molecular docking to verify the interaction between the main active ingredients of AM and the core targets. </p> <p> Results: A total of 87 effective components of AM were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. According to the network of active compounds and their target proteins, 18 of the 20 effective compounds in AM could act on 210 proteins. Taking the intersection of 274 hypertensive nephropathy-related genes and AM target proteins, 49 potential targets of AM in treating hypertensive nephropathy were identified. Using the median degree value, we determined 25 core targets of AM in treating hypertensive nephropathy. GO enrichment analysis showed that the biological processes of AM on hypertensive nephropathy mainly focused on the inflammatory response, hypoxia response, angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and cell migration. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis mainly involved cancer pathways, the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, blood flow shear stress, and atherosclerosis. Molecular docking results showed that quercetin, kaempferol, and 7-O-methylisomucronulatol had strong binding activity with several target proteins and may exert protective effects by stabilizing the interaction between molecules through the intermolecular forces of hydrogen bonds. </p> <p> Conclusion: This study reveals the targets of AM in treating hypertensive nephropathy using network pharmacology and molecular docking, providing new clues for developing novel drugs for hypertensive nephropathy and basic research development.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Discovery of the Aminated Quinoxalines as Potential Active Molecules]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137169</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: In recent years, as the biological activity of the quinoxaline skeleton has been revealed in numerous studies, interest in synthesizing new prototype molecules for the treatment of many chronic diseases, especially cancer, has increased. </p> <p> Methods: The desired alkoxy substituted aminoquinoxalines (AQNX1-9) were synthesized by the reaction of QNX and alkoxy substituted aryl amines such as 2-methoxyaniline, 4-methoxyaniline, 2- ethoxyaniline, 3-ethoxyaniline, 4-ethoxyaniline, 4-butoxyaniline, 2,4-dimethoxyaniline, 3,4- dimethoxyaniline, and 3,5-dimethoxyaniline according to the previously published procedure. QNX was aminated in DMSO at 130°C. We synthesized various alkoxy substituted aminoquinoxaline compounds (AQNX1-9) and evaluated their anticancer and antimicrobial activities in order to expand the search to related structures. In particular, two aminoquinoxaline (AQNX5 and AQNX6) compounds, coded as NSC D-835971/1 and NSC D-835972/1 by the National Cancer Institute in the USA, were screened for anticancer screening at a dose of 10<sup>-5</sup> M on a full panel of 60 human cell lines obtained from nine human cancer cell types (leukemia, melanoma, non-small cell lung, colon, central nervous system, ovarian, kidney, prostate, and breast cancer). </p> <p> Results: Further <i>in silico</i> studies were also conducted for the compound AQNX5 (NSC D- 835971/1), which was found to be the most active antiproliferative agent, especially against leukemia cell lines. Molecular docking studies showed that AQNX5 interacted with Glu286 and Lys271 through hydrogen bonding and &#960;-stacking interaction in the ATP binding region of Abl kinase, which is indicated as a potential target of leukemia. Besides, AQNX5 occupied the minor groove of the double helix of DNA via &#960;-stacking interaction with DG-6. </p> <p> Conclusion: According to <i>in silico</i> pharmacokinetic determination, AQNX5 was endowed with drug-like properties as a potential anticancer drug candidate for future experiments. In the light of these findings, more research will focus on aminated quinoxalines' ability to precisely target leukemia cancer cell lines.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nutritional Significance of Wheatgrass: Cultivation Practices and Opportunities for its Processing and Preservation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138057</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the nutritional composition and bioactive compounds found in wheatgrass, including chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, as well as their associated health benefits. The review focuses on various cultivation practices, preservation techniques, and the current utilization of wheatgrass as a whole. Additionally, the potential toxicity of wheatgrass has been discussed. Wheatgrass, a nutrient-rich grass, possesses significant pharmacological and therapeutic qualities. In the present scenario, wheatgrass is available in the form of juice, powder, and tablets, and is incorporated into various food products through different processing treatments. </p> <p> Method: Information and data regarding wheatgrass cultivation practices, processing, and preservation methods were collected from scientific sources, including Google Scholar, ResearchGate, ScienceDirect, fig, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. </p> <p> Result: Wheatgrass is a highly valuable source of diverse nutrient compounds. Various cultivation methods, such as indoor and outdoor techniques using different growing mediums, have been employed for wheatgrass production. Recent methods for wheatgrass preservation have been suggested to enhance the bioactive compounds present in wheatgrass. </p> <p> Conclusion: Numerous studies have demonstrated that the consumption of wheatgrass and wheatgrass- based products can help control diabetes, atherosclerosis, kidney and colon diseases, anemia, and certain types of cancer. The smaller size of wheatgrass allows for easier assimilation of its beneficial compounds. Creating awareness among consumers about the nutritional profile and therapeutic properties of wheatgrass is crucial in order to maximize its market potential.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Endocrine Adverse Events Related To Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatment: Relationship Between Antibodies and Severity of Thyroid Dysfunction]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138518</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify predictive and risk factors for the development of immune-related endocrinopathies and to analyze the incidence and characteristics of immune-related endocrinopathies in our population. </p> <p> Design: A retrospective, single-centre cohort carried out at Gregorio Marañón Hospital between January 2018 -December 2019. </p> <p> Methods: A total of 163 patients were enrolled. In January 2018 and December 2019, we treated patients who underwent ICI treatment in the Medical Oncology Department of General University Hospital Gregorio Marañón, a tertiary care public hospital in Madrid, as part of an observational, retrospective, single-center cohort study. </p> <p> Results: Endocrinopathies were diagnosed in 19.5% of the patients (n = 32). The tumours with the highest incidence of endocrinopathies were non-small cell lung cancer (25,9%), kidney cell cancer (25%) and hepatocarcinoma (20%). Among the 32 patients who developed endocrinopathy, 18,8%, 19,13%, and 21,28% received anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1 and anti-PDL-1, respectively. Thyroid dysfunction was the most frequent endocrinopathy (12,8%). A higher percentage of patients with negative antiTPO and antiTG antibodies developed G1 hypothyroidism compared to patients with positive antibodies who developed a higher proportion of G2 hypothyroidism. The presence of an initial phase of thyrotoxicity was not related to greater severity. We observed longer progression-free survival in patients who developed thyroid dysfunction. </p> <p> Conclusion: Pre-existing antibodies were independently associated with endocrinopathies. Moreover, our study let us conclude that the presence of thyroid autoantibodies may be related to its severity. It is important to determine anti-thyroid antibodies prior to the start of immunotherapy as a risk factor for thyroid dysfunction, which in turn is a prognostic marker.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Preparation of Menthyl 3-amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl) Butyrate and Investigation of its Hypoglycemic Activity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136308</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: 3-Amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl) butyric acid has potential pharmacological effects in promoting insulin secretion. Menthol promotes drug transdermal absorption and hypoglycemic effects. </p> <p> Objective: The objective of the study was to combine the 3-amino-4-(2,4,5- trifluorophenyl) butyric acid and menthol to develop a new candidate drug molecule that can be used as a hypoglycemic drug in type II diabetes. </p> <p> Methods: In this study, the molecular structure of 3-amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl) butyric acid in sitagliptin was modified by replacing pyrazine imidazole with menthol. The structure of the target compound was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The anti-diabetic activity of BHF in N000180 BKS.Cg-Dock7m+/ +Leprdb/Nju mice with spontaneous diabetes was preliminarily studied. </p> <p> Results: A potential multi-target drug molecule, 3-amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl) butyrate (BHF), was synthesized by combining 3-amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl) butyric acid and menthol. BHF is suitable for hyperglycemic mice and has a significant hypoglycemic effect; the low dose of 10 mg/kg-1 started to be effective, and the high dose of 40 mg/kg-1 was more effective than the positive drug metformin. </p> <p> Conclusion: In this study, BHF has been synthesized and presented significant antidiabetic activities.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Dextran-based Drug Delivery Approaches for Lung Diseases: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137299</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Respiratory disorders, such as tuberculosis, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, lung cancer, and pulmonary inflammation, are among the most prevalent ailments in today’s world. Dextran, an exopolysaccharide formed by <i>Leuconostoc mesenteroides</i> (slimeproducing bacteria), and its derivatives are investigated for several therapeutic utilities. Dextranbased drug delivery system can become an innovative strategy in the treatment of several respiratory ailments as it offers numerous advantages, such as mucolytic action, airway hydration, antiinflammatory properties, and radioprotective effect as compared to other polysaccharides. Being biocompatible, flexible hydrophilic nature, biodegradable, tasteless, odourless, non-mutagenic, watersoluble and non-toxic edible polymer, dextran-based drug delivery systems have been explored for a wide range of therapeutic applications, especially in lungs and respiratory diseases. The present article comprehensively discusses various derivatives of dextran with their attributes to be considered for drug delivery and extensive therapeutic benefits, with a special emphasis on the armamentarium of dextran-based formulations for the treatment of respiratory disorders and associated pathological conditions. The information provided will act as a platform for formulation scientists as important considerations in designing therapeutic approaches for lung and respiratory diseases. </p> <p> With an emphasis on lung illnesses, this article will offer an in-depth understanding of dextran-based delivery systems in respiratory illnesses.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Exosomal microRNA-99b-5p Promotes Cell Growth of High Glucose-treated Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells by Modulating THAP Domain Containing 2 Expression]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137032</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (BMSC-exos) may function as novel candidates for treating diabetic wounds due to their ability to promote angiogenesis. </p> <p> Materials and Methods: This study investigated the effects of BMSC-exos on the growth and metastasis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with high glucose (HG). The exosomes were separated from BMSCs and identified. The cell phenotype was detected by 3-(4,5- dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine, wound healing, and transwell assays, while the number of tubes was measured <i>via</i> tube formation assay. </p> <p> Result: The RNA and protein expression levels were studied using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, whereas integration of microRNA-99b-5p (miR-99b-5p) with THAP domain containing 2 (THAP2) was confirmed <i>via</i> dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. Results of transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and laser scanning confocal microscopy revealed that exosomes were successfully separated from BMSCs and endocytosed into the cytoplasm by HUVECs. Similarly, BMSC-exos were found to promote the growth of HG-treated HUVECs, while their growth was inhibited by suppressing miR-99b-5p. THAP2 was found to bind to miR-99b-5p, where THAP2 inhibition reversed the miR-99b-5p-induced effects on cell growth, migration, and tube numbers. </p> <p> Conclusion: In conclusion, miR-99b-5p in BMSC-exo protects HUVECs by negatively regulating THAP2 expression.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Enhancing the Regenerative Potential of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Through TLR4-Mediated Signaling]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137164</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is a receptor that traditionally plays an important role in immunomodulation (regulation of the immune system) and the initiation of proinflammatory responses. TLR4 is used in the body to recognize molecular patterns of pathogens or damaged cells from outside. However, in recent years, it has also become clear that TLR4 can affect the immune system and the function of stem cells, especially mesenchymal stem cells. Therefore, understanding how TLR4 signaling works at the cellular and molecular level and using this knowledge in regenerative medicine could be potentially useful, especially in the treatment of adipose- derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs). How these cells can use TLR4 signaling when used to increase their regenerative potential and repair tissues is an area of research. </p> <p> Aims: This study aims to elucidate the multifaceted role of TLR4-mediated signaling in ADMSCs. </p> <p> Methods: Employing a comprehensive set of assays, including MTT for cell viability, flow cytometry for surface marker expression, and gene expression analysis, we demonstrate that TLR4 activation significantly modulates key aspects of ADMSC biology. Specifically, TLR4 signaling was found to regulate ADMSCs proliferation, surface marker expression, and regenerative capacity in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, TLR4 activation conferred cytoprotective effects against Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cellular apoptosis. </p> <p> Results: These findings suggest that TLR4 signaling could be used to enhance the regenerative abilities of ADMSCs and enable ADMSC-based therapies to be used more effectively for tissue engineering and therapeutic purposes. </p> <p> Conclusion: However, it is important to note that research in this area needs more details and clinical studies.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mesenchymal Stem Cell-conditioned Medium Protecting Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells by Inhibiting Hypoxia-inducible Factor-1α and Nuclear Receptor Coactivator-1]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134759</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is characterized by inflammatory infiltration and damage and death of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs), in which hypoxia plays an important role. Deferoxamine (DFO) is a well-accepted chemical hypoxia-mimetic agent. Mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) can reduce local inflammation and repair tissue. In this study, we explored the effect and molecular mechanism of MSC-CM-mediated protection of RTECs under DFO-induced hypoxia. </p> <p> Methods: Rat renal proximal tubule NRK-52E cells were treated with different concentrations of DFO for 24 hours, followed by evaluation of RTEC injury, using a Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) to detect cell viability and western blotting to evaluate the expression of transforming growth factor- beta 1 (TGF-&#946;1), &#945;-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1&#945;) in NRK-52E cells. Then, three groups of NRK-52E cells were used in experiments, including normal control (NC), 25 μM DFO, and 25 μM DFO + MSC-CM. MSC-CM was obtained from the human umbilical cord. MSC-CM was used to culture cells for 12 hours before DFO treatment, then fresh MSC-CM and 25 μM DFO were added, and cells were cultured for another 24 hours before analysis. </p> <p> Results: Western blotting and cellular immunofluorescence staining showed culture of NRK-52E cells in 25 μM DFO for 24 hours induced HIF-1&#945; and nuclear receptor coactivator-1 (NCoA-1), simulating hypoxia. MSC-CM could inhibit the DFO-induced up-regulation of &#945;-SMA, TGF-&#946;1, HIF-1&#945; and NCoA-1. </p> <p> Conclusion: Our results suggest that MSC-CM has a protective effect on RTECs by down-regulating HIF-1&#945; and NCoA-1, which may be the harmful factors in renal injury.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transcription Factor MAZ Potentiates the Upregulated NEIL3-mediated Aerobic Glycolysis, thereby Promoting Angiogenesis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138449</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by high vascularity and notable abnormality of blood vessels, where angiogenesis is a key process in tumorigenesis and metastasis. The main functions of Nei Like DNA Glycosylase 3 (NEIL3) include DNA alcoholization repair, immune response regulation, nervous system development and function, and DNA damage signal transduction. However, the underlying mechanism of high expression NEIL3 in the development and progression of HCC and whether the absence or silencing of NEIL3 inhibits the development of cancer remain unclear. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which increased NEIL3 expression promotes cancer development is needed. </p> <p> Methods: Expression of NEIL3 and its upstream transcription factor MAZ in HCC tumor tissues was analyzed in bioinformatics efforts, while validation was done by qRT-PCR and western blot in HCC cell lines. The migration and tube formation capacity of HUVEC cells were analyzed by Transwell and tube formation assays. Glycolytic capacity was analyzed by extracellular acidification rate, glucose uptake, and lactate production levels. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were utilized to investigate specific interactions between MAZ and NEIL3. </p> <p> Results: NEIL3 and MAZ were substantially upregulated in HCC tissues and cells. NEIL3 was involved in modulating the glycolysis pathway, suppression of which reversed the stimulative impact of NEIL3 overexpression on migration and angiogenesis in HUVEC cells. MAZ bound to the promoter of NEIL3 to facilitate NEIL3 transcription. Silencing MAZ reduced NEIL3 expression and suppressed the glycolysis pathway, HUVEC cell migration, and angiogenesis. </p> <p> Conclusion: MAZ potentiated the upregulated NEIL3-mediated glycolysis pathway and HCC angiogenesis. This study provided a rationale for the MAZ/NEIL3/glycolysis pathway as a possible option for anti-angiogenesis therapy in HCC.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Local Angiotensin II/Angiotensin Type 1-receptor Mechanisms in Adipose Tissue Dysfunction to Promote Pancreatic Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138427</link><description><![CDATA[Obesity and adipose tissue dysfunction are important risk factors for pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers globally. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is expressed in many tissues, including adipose tissue. Dysregulation of angiotensin II and angiotensin II receptors in adipose tissue through the activation of different signaling pathways leads to adipose tissue dysfunction, including insulin resistance, adipose tissue inflammation, adipocytokines secretion, and metabolic alterations. The pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer remains uncertain. However, there is evidence that dysregulation of local angiotensin II in adipose tissue that occurs in association with obesity is, in part, responsible for the initiation and progression of pancreatic cancer. Due to the role of local angiotensin II in the dysfunction of adipose tissue, angiotensin receptor blockers may be considered a new therapeutic strategy in the amelioration of the complications related to adipose tissue dysfunction and prevention of pancreatic cancer. This review aims to consider the biological roles of local angiotensin II and angiotensin II receptors in adipose tissue dysfunction to promote pancreatic cancer progression with a focus on adipose tissue inflammation and metabolic reprogramming.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of NADPH Quinone Reductase 1 (NQO1) Polymorphism in Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancers]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138310</link><description><![CDATA[Most cancer deaths are related to gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Several environmental and genetic factors are effective in the occurrence of GI cancers, such as esophageal, stomach, colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancers. In addition to risk factors related to lifestyle, reactive oxygen species (ROS) also play a role in GI cancers, and an increase in the amount of free radicals can lead to oxidative stress and increase the probability of malignancies. NQO1 is part of the body's antioxidant defense system that protects cells against mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. NQO1 is responsible for reducing quinones to hydroquinone and preventing the generation of ROS by catalyzing the reaction. The existence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of NADPH Quinone Reductase 1 (NQO1), such as 609C>T NQO1, leads to a decrease in NQO1 enzyme activity. Some NQO1 polymorphisms may increase the risk of gastrointestinal cancer. So, the C609T polymorphism in the NQO1 gene has been found to be effective in causing gastrointestinal cancers. On the other hand, it is very important to know the role of biomarkers in the prognosis and management of cancer treatment. Therefore, this study investigated the role of NQO1 as a biomarker in the management of gastrointestinal cancers (prevention, diagnosis and treatment).]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Association between NADPH Oxidase 2 (NOX2) and Drug Resistance in Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138532</link><description><![CDATA[NADPH oxidase, as a major source of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), assumes an important role in the immune response and oxidative stress response of the body. NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) is the first and most representative member of the NADPH oxidase family, and its effects on the development of tumor cells are gaining more and more attention. Our previous study suggested that NCF4 polymorphism in p40phox, a key subunit of NOX2, affected the outcome of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients treated with rituximab. It hypothesized that NOX2-mediated ROS could enhance the cytotoxic effects of some anti-tumor drugs in favor of patients with tumors. Several reviews have summarized the role of NOX2 and its congeners-mediated ROS in anti-tumor therapy, but few studies focused on the relationship between the expression of NOX2 and anti-tumor drug resistance. In this article, we systematically introduced the NOX family, represented by NOX2, and a classification of the latest inhibitors and agonists of NOX2. It will help researchers to have a more rational and objective understanding of the dual role of NOX2 in tumor drug resistance and is expected to provide new ideas for oncology treatment and overcoming drug resistance in cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Prognostic Value and Clinical Significance of lncRNA SNHG5 Expression in Patients with Multiple Malignancies: A Bioinformatic and Meta-analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138740</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (lncRNA SNHG5) has been identified as both a promising target for treatment and a predictor of prognosis in diverse types of cancer. The objective of this study was to assess whether lncRNA SNHG5 expression can be utilized as a prognostic biomarker for human cancer. </p> <p> Methods: To ensure a thorough search of the literature for relevant English studies published before July 2023, several databases were searched, including PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The study evaluated the impact of lncRNA SNHG5 on the overall survival (OS) of cancer by calculating the pooled hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). To further confirm the accuracy of the findings, the study investigated the expression profile and prognostic significance of lncRNA SNHG5 through the use of GenomicScape, OncoLnc, Kaplan-Meier plotter, and GEPIA databases. </p> <p> Results: In this study, 995 patients were examined across a total of fourteen original studies. The findings indicated that there was a significant relationship between heightened lncRNA SNHG5 expression and reduced OS, as evidenced by both univariate and multivariate analyses (HR = 1.89; 95% CI, 1.44-2.49; p &#60; 0.001; HR = 3.97; 95% CI, 1.80-8.73; p &#60; 0.001, respectively). Pooled OR analysis showed a significant association between over-expression of lncRNA SNHG5 with advanced histological grade (OR = 0.28; 95% CI, 0.11-0.71; p = 0.007), present lymph node metastasis (LNM; OR = 4.28; 95% CI, 2.47-7.43; p &#60; 0.001), and smoking history (OR = 0.27; 95% CI, 0.15-0.49; p &#60; 0.001). Bioinformatic databases confirmed that elevated SNHG5 expression was significantly linked to poor prognosis in cancer patients, including colorectal cancer (CRC), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and esophageal adenocarcinoma (ESAD), and a longer OS in patients with uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC). </p> <p> Conclusion: These results suggest that lncRNA SNHG5 may serve as an adverse prognostic biomarker in several human cancers. Further investigations are needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms that link lncRNA SNHG5 to multiple malignancies.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Antidiabetic Potential of Apiaceae Family Plants- A Critical Update]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138880</link><description><![CDATA[Apiaceae is one of the biggest and most important plant families, comprising about 3700 species and 434 genera. Most of them are aromatic, flowering plants. The plants in this family are beneficial for everyday use and treating diseases. They are a rich source of nutraceuticals and secondary metabolites attributed to different pharmacological activities. Some plants under this family possess antidiabetic activity through different mechanisms, such as inhibiting carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes, stimulating insulin secretion, and regulating glucose transporters. Diabetes mellitus has become a chronic metabolic disorder whose management is of utmost importance in recent days. The present review aims to establish the use of Apiaceae family plants in treating diabetes mellitus. The availability of plants, their bio-constituents, mode of action, and experimental studies have also been briefly described here.]]></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></channel></rss>