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                    <title><![CDATA[Pediatric Cancers]]></title>

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

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                    RSS Feed for Disease Wise Article | BenthamScience

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                    <pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 13:57:37 +0000</pubDate>

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                    <title><![CDATA[Pediatric Cancers]]></title>

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

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

                    </image><item><title><![CDATA[Pinworm (<i>Enterobius Vermicularis</i>) Infestation: An Updated Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138052</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Pinworm infestation is an important public health problem worldwide, especially among children 5 to 10 years of age in developing countries with temperate climates. The problem is often overlooked because of its mild or asymptomatic clinical manifestations. </p> <p> Objectives: The purpose of this article was to familiarize pediatricians with the diagnosis and management of pinworm infestation. </p> <p> Methods: A search was conducted in August 2023 in PubMed Clinical Queries using the key terms “Enterobius vermicularis,” OR “enterobiasis,” OR “pinworm.” The search strategy included all clinical trials, observational studies, and reviews published within the past 10 years. Only papers published in the English literature were included in this review. The information retrieved from the above search was used in the compilation of the present article. </p> <p> Results: Enterobiasis is a cosmopolitan parasitosis caused by Enterobius vermicularis. It affects approximately 30% of children worldwide and up to 60% of children in some developing countries. Predisposing factors include poor socioeconomic conditions, inadequate sanitation, poor personal hygiene, and overcrowding. Children aged 5 to 14 years have shown the highest prevalence of enterobiasis.. Egg transmission is mainly by the fecal-oral route. Approximately 30 to 40% of infested patients do not show any clinical symptoms of the disease. For symptomatic patients, the most common presenting symptom is nocturnal pruritus ani. The diagnosis of E. vermicularis infection is best established by the cellophane tape test. The sensitivity of one single test is around 50%; however, the sensitivity increases to approximately 90% with tests performed on three different mornings. If a worm is visualized in the perianal area or the stool, a pathological examination of the worm will yield a definitive diagnosis. As pinworms and eggs are not usually passed in the stool, examination of the stool is not recommended. The drugs of choice for the treatment of pinworm infestation are mebendazole (100 mg), pyrantel pamoate (11 mg/kg, maximum 1 g), and albendazole (400 mg), all of the above-mentioned drugs are given in a single dose and repeated in two weeks. Mebendazole and albendazole are both adulticidal and ovicidal, whereas pyrantel pamoate is only adulticidal. Given their safety and effectiveness, mebendazole and albendazole are currently the best available drugs for the treatment of pinworm infestation. For pregnant women, pyrantel is preferred to mebendazole and albendazole. Treatment of all household members should be considered, especially if there are multiple or repeated symptomatic infections because reinfection is common even when effective medication is given. </p> <p> Conclusion: In spite of effective treatment of pinworm infestation, recurrences are common. Recurrences are likely due to repeated cycles of reinfection (particularly, autoinfection) because of the short life span of adult pinworms. Good personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, especially after bowel movements and before meals, clipping of fingernails, avoidance of finger-sucking, nail-biting, and scratching in the anogenital area, are important preventive measures. Treatment of all household members should be considered, especially if there are multiple or repeated symptomatic infections.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Congenital Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Presentation, Etiology, Diagnosis and
Management]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139402</link><description><![CDATA[Aortic aneurysms are common in adults due to atherosclerosis but are rare in children and young adults, often overlooked due to infrequent reporting. Acquired aneurysms are usually linked to factors like umbilical artery ligation, connective tissue diseases, or vasculitides. In contrast, the causes of congenital abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) remain unknown due to their extreme rarity. Only a few cases have been reported. Prompt diagnosis is essential when symptoms such as abdominal distention, vomiting, or abdominal pulsatility occur. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through ultrasonography and multi-slice spiral computed tomography angiographies (MCSTA). After detection, a comprehensive investigation is necessary to rule out acquired AAA causes. Managing congenital AAA requires a highly personalized approach, with early surgical repair using grafts as a recommended option. After an extensive analysis of numerous academic sources, we have comprehensively understood the epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnostic and treatment techniques for congenital abdominal aortic aneurysms.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comprehensive Review of Alternative Therapeutic Approaches for Nausea
and Vomiting Relief in Pregnancy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136748</link><description><![CDATA[Alternative medication is used for treating the common problems associated with pregnancy. 80% of women suffer from morning sickness during pregnancy. Treatment during pregnancy via using non-pharmacological therapy is quite popular all over the world as it is safe and has no negative effects on the fetus. Nausea and vomiting are one of the most prominent problems faced by pregnant women. Acupressure and Aromatherapy have been used by pregnant ladies nowadays for relieving nausea and vomiting symptoms. Conventional therapies also aid in medication of morning sickness in pregnancy duration that covers drugs like Antiemetics, Corticosteroids, Antihistaminic, IV fluids and Vitamin-B6 supplements. Many scientific studies have demonstrated that few drugs that come under conventional treatment cause severe birth defects and stillbirth. This is the leading reason pregnant women prefer to use herbs instead of using conventional medical treatment. The prospective of this review article is to find out the alternative and conventional therapeutic approaches for alleviating the symptoms of morning sickness during pregnancy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Frequency of Cancer Associated with Children and Adolescents]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132834</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: More than 175,000 new cases of cancer in children are diagnosed every year worldwide. <P> This study aimed to investigate the recorded cancer frequency in children and adolescents in Isfahan Province, Iran. <P> As one of the main reasons for death among children and adolescents is reported as cancer with different prevalence worldwide, therefore, reporting the occurrence of cancers in this population is crucial. <P> Methods: Information from the years between 2013 to 2015 related to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results; (SEER) was collected from the Isfahan Cancer Registry. The cancer sites studied were defined according to the International Classification of Diseases and recorded by related topography codes. <P> Results: Among all 30,465 registered cancers, there were 582 cases (2%) of cancer, including 57% of children and 43% of adolescents. The mean ± SD age of patients was 11.5 ± 5.9 years (Min; 1, Max 19). The top four ranked cancers were (n=264; 45%) comprised of; 1) hematopoietic and reticuloendothelial system (n= 122), 2) secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes (n=56), 3) malignant neoplasm of the brain (n=43) 4), thyroid gland (n=43). Death-reported data was associated with 32% of the total population studied. The neoplasm was reported in 174 cases, which was associated with 95% death. <P> Conclusion: This frequency source of children and adolescents cancers could be used for health strategy. The observed variations in the frequency of different cancers require continuous monitoring and investigation. Therefore, plan of health-system should focus based on greater efforts toward advanced evidence-based drug therapy in Isfahan, Iran.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Sustaining Patency of Peripherally Inserted Venous Catheter (PIVC) among
Patients in Continuous Intra Venous Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136878</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Phlebitis is still a common complication of peripheral venous catheters. Finding a suitable solution to prevent and reduce the incidence of this complication continues to be a challenge. Various strategies were used to reduce the incidence of phlebitis. Mostly non-pharmacological measures were taken as first preference. Intially, when patients come to any hospital for their treatment, the first is the peripherally inserted venous catheter access conducted inpatient for medication administration, fluid administration and blood transfusion in both the hospital setting and ambulatory setting. About 70% of the patients admitted to the hospital requires peripherally inserted venous catheters (PIVCs). The incidence of phlebitis is higher in patients who undergo continuous intravenous therapy. <P> Objectives: To find out the effect of hand grip exercise in the sustaining patency of peripherally inserted venous catheters among patients in continuous intravenous therapy. <P> Methods: During the 8 weeks the hand grip exercise was evaluated in patients, who had undergone continuous intravenous infusion through the peripherally inserted venous catheter for at least 3 days. The measurement of data is based on the patient’s socio-demographic Performa, patency checklist, visual infusion phlebitis score and visual analogue scale. The post-test was conducted in both experimental and control groups. <P> Result: Till the end of the study, 76 participants were taken. On day 3 of the hand grip exercise maximum of 24 (61.5%) PIVC were patent, whereas in control group 5 (13.5%) PIVC were able to maintain their patency. On day 5 of exercise 34 (91.9%) PIVC were replaced with a cause of phlebitis 33(89.2%) in the control group in comparison with the experimental group only 22 (56.4%) lines were replaced with the same cause of phlebitis 24 (61.5%). <P> Conclusion: Hand grip exercise is important for clients, to reduce the need for the potentially painful process of placing vascular lines and also helps to control costs by reducing the number of devices used for each client and the development of phlebitis.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Thyroid Autoimmune Disease among Emirati Patients: A Retrospective
Analysis of the Patients’ Characteristics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134250</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is a serious and treatable disease that could be associated with other autoimmune disorders. It is a common cause of hypothyroidism in adult females. The diagnosis is established by detecting serum antithyroid antibodies. The disease slowly progresses, and the treatment includes thyroid hormone replacement in cases of hypothyroidism. <p> Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and comorbidity factors involved in autoimmune thyroid disease among Emirati citizens in the UAE. <p> Methods: Medical records from Advanced Cure Diagnostic Centers were reviewed in a retrospective study over the period of four years from 2018 to 2022. The patients population included those who attended the Endocrinology Unit and others seen by the rest of the medical staff. Patients were considered to have AITD if they tested positive for thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb), thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), or both. The data collected was evaluated using descriptive analysis to provide a basic summary of the patients sample and dataset. Unpaired t-test was used to compare the mean value of elevated autoantibodies in males and females. <p> Results: Of the 366 Emirati nationals who were tested for autoimmune thyroiditis, 220 (60%) had an abnormal result for TPOAb and/or TgAb. Among the 220 patients who had an abnormal result for TPOAb and/or TgAb, 188 (85.5%) were females, and 100 patients (45.5%) were in the age group between 31 and 40 years. 42% were in a euthyroid state and 42% presented with hypothyroidism. Only 7% presented with hyperthyroidism, 5% with subclinical hypothyroidism, and 2% with subclinical hyperthyroidism. An analysis of the comorbidity factors revealed 142 (65%) patients with obesity, 82 (37%) with a family history of thyroid disease, 77 (35%) with hyperlipidemia, 14 (6%) with hypertension, and 11 (5%) with diabetes. <p> Conclusion: This is the first publication intended to address AITD in Emirati citizens. Our findings concur with the international data regarding the prevalence among middle-aged females. Eighty-four percent of the positive patients either presented with no abnormality of their thyroid gland function or with hypothyroidism. With the alarming increase of obesity in the UAE, we found it to be the single most important and preventable comorbidity factor present in 65% of the studied population. This is followed by a family history of first-degree relatives with thyroid disease in 37% of the participants, due to the high rate of consanguineous marriages in the UAE.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Mediating Role of miR-451/ETV4/MMP13 Signaling Axis on Epithelialmesenchymal
Transition in Promoting Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Progression]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133068</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality. It is one of the most abundant cancer types clinically, with 2 million new cases diagnosed yearly. <P> Aims: Using clinically collected non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) samples, we sought to hypothesize an innovative intact signaling cascade for the disorder. <P> Methods: We dissected snap-frozen NSCLC tissues along with sibling-paired nearby non-tumorous tissues from 108 NSCLC patients. We measured the expression levels of miR-451/ETV4/MMP13 using qRT-PCR and did a thorough investigation of the molecular mechanism for the signaling axis in NSCLC cell line A549. We also studied the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. <P> Results: The activity of miR-451 was significantly decreased in NSCLC tissues, while the expression levels of ETV4 and MMP13 were remarkably increased. At the same time, miR-451 levels maintained a declining trend across TNM stage I–III. Inversely, ETV4 and MMP13 increased as the TNM stage increased. The miR-451/ETV4/MMP13 signaling axis was closely associated with prognosis in NSCLC patients. Based on in vitro experiments, ETV4 was a direct targeting factor for miRNA-451. Meanwhile, ETV4 promoted the tumor properties of NSCLC cells by directly activating MMP13. Silencing MMP13 blocked the EMT progress of NSCLC cells. <P> Conclusion: Overall, we hypothesized an impeccable signaling pathway for NSCLC from a new aspect, and this can offer alternative insights for a better understanding of the disorder.</P>]]></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[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[Advancements in the Research of GEF-H1: Biological Functions and Tumor
Associations]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138153</link><description><![CDATA[Guanine nucleotide exchange factor H1 (GEF-H1) is a unique protein modulated by the GDP/GTP exchange. As a regulator of the Rho-GTPase family, GEF-H1 can be activated through a microtubule-depended mechanism and phosphorylation regulation, enabling it to perform various pivotal biological functions across multiple cellular activities. These include the regulation of Rho-GTPase, cytoskeleton formation, cellular barrier, cell cycle, mitosis, cell differentiation, and vesicle trafficking. Recent studies have revealed its crucial effect on the tumor microenvironment (TME) components, promoting tumor initiation and progress. Consequently, an in-depth exploration of GEF-H1’s biological roles and association with tumors holds promise for its potential as a valuable molecular target in tumor treatment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Regulating miRNAs Expression by Resveratrol: Novel Insights based on
Molecular Mechanism and Strategies for Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135470</link><description><![CDATA[Resveratrol, a polyphenolic phytoalexin found in a wide range of plants, including grapes, berries, and peanuts, is an extensively researched phytochemical with unique pharmacological capabilities and amazing potential to affect many targets in various cancers. Resveratrol's anti-cancer activities are due to its targeting of a variety of cellular and molecular mechanisms and crucial processes involved in cancer pathogenesis, such as the promotion of growth arrest, stimulation of apoptosis, suppression of cell proliferation, induction of autophagy, regulating oxidative stress and inflammation, and improving the influence of some of the other chemotherapeutic agents. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that modulate gene expression by degrading mRNA or inhibiting translation. MiRNAs serve critical roles in a wide range of biological activities, and disruption of miRNA expression is strongly linked to cancer progression. Recent research has shown that resveratrol has anti-proliferative and/or pro-apoptotic properties via modulating the miRNA network, which leads to the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, the activation of apoptosis, or the increase of traditional cancer therapy effectiveness. As a result, employing resveratrol to target miRNAs will be a unique and potential anticancer approach. Here, we discuss the main advances in the modulation of miRNA expression by resveratrol, as well as the several miRNAs that may be influenced by resveratrol in different types of cancer and the significance of this natural drug as a promising strategy in cancer treatment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Deeply Quiescent Subset of CML LSC depend on FAO yet Avoid Deleterious
ROS by Suppressing Mitochondrial Complex I]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134302</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background and Objective: Disease relapse and therapy resistance remain serious impediments to treating cancer. Leukemia stem cells (LSC) are therapy resistant and the cause of relapse. A state of deep quiescence appears to enable cancer stem cells (CSC) to acquire new somatic mutations essential for disease progression and therapy resistance. Both normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) and LSC share many common features, thereby complicating the safe elimination of LSC. A recent study demonstrated that long lived normal oocytes exist without mitochondrial complex I (MC-1), expressing it in a developmentally regulated fashion, thereby mitigating their vulnerability to ROS. Quiescent CSC rely on mitochondrial FAO, without complex I expression, thereby avoiding the generation of damaging ROS, similar to long lived normal human stem cells. A deeper understanding of the biology of therapy resistance is important for the development of optimal strategies to attain complete leukemia cures. <P> Methods: Here, using scRNA-sequencing and ATAC-seq on primary chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) patient samples, combined with bioinformatics analyses, we further examine the heterogeneity of a previously characterized in vitro imatinib-selected CD34-CD38- CML LSC population. We utilized a series of functional analyses, including single-cell metabolomic and Seahorse analyses, to validate the existence of the deepest quiescent leukemia initiators (LI) subset. <P> Results: Current study revealed heterogeneity of therapy resistant LSC in CML patients and their existence of two functionally distinct states. The most deeply quiescent LI suppress the expression of MC-1, yet are highly dependent on fatty acid oxidation (FAO) for their metabolic requirements and ATAC-seq demonstrated increased chromatin accessibility in this population, all consistent with an extremely primitive, quiescent stemness transcriptional signature. Importantly, the specific CREB binding protein (CBP)/&#946;-catenin antagonist ICG-001 initiates the differentiation of LSC, including LI, decreases chromatin accessibility with differentiation and increasing expression of MC-1, CD34, CD38 and BCR-ABL1, thereby resensitizing them to imatinib. <P> Conclusion: We investigated the biological aspects related to LSC heterogeneity in CML patients and demonstrated the ability of specific small molecule CBP/&#946;-catenin antagonists to safely eliminate deeply quiescent therapy resistant CSC. These observations may represent an attractive generalizable therapeutic strategy that could help develop better protocols to eradicate the quiescent LSC population.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Deciphering Tuberculous Meningitis: From Clinical Challenges to Novel Models and Pathogenic Pathways]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138123</link><description><![CDATA[During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, Tuberculosis (TB) has reestablished with higher figures due to interruptions in the Directly Observed Treatment Short course (DOTS) despite underreporting. The rising consequences would have extended to extra-pulmonary forms of TB as well, including Tuberculous Meningitis (TBM). Considering the fact that TBM is the most dangerous and worst form of TB, we found the need to scan the literature to highlight various aspects of TBM. Epidemiology of TBM is proportionally less frightening, but the consequent mortalities and morbidities are more alarming than pulmonary TB. Here, we address critical research gaps in Tuberculous Meningitis that warrant further investigations. The highlighted aspects encompass a comprehensive understanding of TBM's clinical presentation and improved diagnostic tools for timely detection, the exploration of innovative chemotherapies and surgical interventions, the unraveling of the role of the blood-brain barrier in disease onset, investigating of the contributions of various brain cells to TBM development, deciphering the complex inflammatory response, exploring the involvement of Matrix Metalloproteinases in tissue damage, delving into host-pathogen genetics influencing susceptibility, utilizing robust <i>in-vivo</i> and <i>in-vitro</i> models for mechanistic insights, and more importantly between TBM and SARS-COVID-19 are discussed. Addressing these gaps will substantially advance our understanding of TBM's complex pathogenesis, contributing to more effective diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies against this debilitating disease.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring the Pharmacological Potential of <i>Lobelia trigona</i> and its
Bioactive Compounds]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138925</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aim: The aim of this in-depth review is to provide an overview of the pharmacological effects of <i>Lobelia trigona</i> and its bioactive components, highlighting its potential as a source of medicinal agents for various diseases. <p> Methods: This review involved a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and research studies on the pharmacological effects of <i>Lobelia trigona</i> and its bioactive compounds. A bibliography survey was carried out using various electronic databases like Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Springer, Scopus, PubMed, Wiley, etc., and other offline as well as online academic libraries were also used for the bibliography survey and compilation of data. <p> Results: <i>Lobelia trigona</i> was found to exhibit diverse pharmacological effects, primarily mediated by bioactive alkaloids, such as lobeline, lobelanidine, and lobelanine. It demonstrated bronchodilator effects with potential applications in respiratory conditions, analgesic and antiinflammatory properties for treating painful and inflammatory conditions, and cardiovascular effects, including vasodilation and hypotensive effects. The alkaloid lobeline was reported to have promising anti-addictive effects, particularly in smoking cessation. Nanocarrier-based formulations have the potential to address limitations, improve dosing schedules, and enhance the pharmacological effects of <i>Lobelia trigona</i>. <p> Conclusion: <i>Lobelia trigona</i> demonstrates diverse pharmacological effects, primarily attributed to its bioactive alkaloids. It holds promise as a source of medicinal agents for a range of diseases. The potential synergy between the pharmacological effects of <i>Lobelia trigona</i> and nanocarrier technology highlights the significance of nanotechnology in improving Lobelia trigona-based therapeutics. However, further research is warranted to determine the clinical effectiveness, safety, biocompatibility, and long-term effects of nanocarrier-based Lobelia trigona formulations in different disease models.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nanostructures and Niosomes: A Quantum Leap in Clotrimazole Therapeutics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137958</link><description><![CDATA[This in-depth analysis examines the revolutionary potential of nanostructures, particularly niosomes, in boosting Clotrimazole's therapeutic effectiveness for dermatological applications. A common antifungal drug called clotrimazole suffers significant problems with solubility, bioavailability, and penetration. Niosomal gels in particular, which are nanostructured drug carriers, have emerged as ground-breaking approaches to overcome these constraints. The study opens with an explanation of the mechanisms of action of Clotrimazole and its wide range of therapeutic uses in dermatology, emphasising the limitations of standard formulations. We present and explore niosomes, lipid-based nanocarriers with diverse characteristics. They provide a viable substrate for improved Clotrimazole administration due to their biocompatibility, adjustable lipid composition, and capacity to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic medications. The creation and development of clotrimazole- loaded niosomal gels are at the core of the review. Numerous preparation processes are investigated, and elements affecting the formation of niosomal gel, such as lipid content and optimization strategies, are reviewed. Particle size analysis and encapsulation efficiency testing are two methods for characterising these gels that are covered in depth. The effectiveness of Clotrimazoleloaded niosomal gels is validated in large part by <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> tests. The review explores in vitro drug release investigations, studies of skin permeability and penetration, and comparisons with conventional formulations. When accessible, preclinical and clinical trial insights provide crucial clinical context. The benefits of clotrimazole-loaded niosomal gels, such as greater patient compliance and improved drug delivery, are also covered in the article. It solves difficulties including stability issues and regulatory issues. The review's conclusion emphasises the essential role that nanostructures and niosomes have played in developing Clotrimazole medicines for dermatological usage. It provides a thorough review of current developments, exciting new approaches, and the wider effects of this ground-breaking medication delivery strategy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Kikuchi-fujimoto Disease in the Axilla after COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case
Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132587</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare, self-limiting inflammatory condition of unknown etiology that is characterized by fever and painful lymphadenopathy. KFD commonly involves the posterior cervical region and very rarely occurs in the axilla. <P> Case Presentation: We report on a case of KFD that presented 3 weeks after receiving the messenger ribonucleic acid-based coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine. In this case, we suspected the lesions as COVID-19 vaccination-related lymphadenopathy on the initial ultrasonographic examination. <P> Conclusion: Through this case report, we highlight that KFD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with axillary lymphadenopathy who have undergone COVID-19 vaccination, as unusual side effects of COVID-19 vaccination have been increasingly reported in the literature owing to the rapid development of various COVID-19 vaccines during the pandemic period. In addition, we emphasize the importance of clinical suspicion in diagnosing KFD due to the fact that axillary involvement of KFD is extremely rare.</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[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[Clinical Usefulness of Ultrasound Elastography in Colonic Diseases: A Narrative
Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130535</link><description><![CDATA[Ultrasound elastography is an innovation of ultrasound technology that has developed since the 1990s. It has been successfully applied for many organs, such as the thyroid, breast, liver, prostate, and muscle systems, providing qualitative and quantitative information about tissue stiffness for clinical diagnoses. For colorectal tumors, ultrasound elastography can distinguish colon adenoma from colon adenocarcinoma and predict the chemotherapeutic effects of colon cancer by monitoring the stiffness changes of cancer tissue. In Crohn’s disease, ultrasound elastography helps assess the stages of the course and guides further treatment strategies. Compared with colonoscopy, ultrasound elastography frees patients from the fears of uncomfortable procedures and enables operators to comprehensively observe the bowel wall and the surrounding structures. In this review, we introduced the principles and the pathological bases of ultrasound elastography and compared the diagnostic efficacies of colonoscopy with colonic ultrasound elastography. Meanwhile, we summarized the ultrasonography of colonic diseases and reviewed the clinical usefulness of ultrasound elastography in colonic diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Multidisciplinary Management of Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in Paediatric Patients:
A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135518</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The aneurysmal bone cyst is a benign neoplasm that tends to form the appearance of a mass with a bony septum that forms cavities with blood inside. It is estimated to represent 1% of bone tumours and has an incidence of 0.14 per 100,000 people worldwide. Current publications have not shown a multidisciplinary approach that can benefit patients, mainly in the functionality and quality of the management approach. <p> Objective: Describe the multidisciplinary approach and the benefits of quality of life and functionality in this diagnosis. <p> Case presentation: A paediatric patient was diagnosed with an aneurysmal bone cyst located in the cervical spine, which initially manifested with muscle pain, enlargement of the posterior cervical region, and difficulty in performing arcs of movement. He was treated with multidisciplinary management with surgery, embolisation, radiation, and bisphosphonate support. <p> Conclusion: The purpose of approaching multidisciplinary management helped to improve the accompanying symptoms that prevented our patient from having an active and quality life. However, more successful cases have not been reported to establish the best therapeutic protocol.</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[Safety of Ultrasound Exposure: Awareness of Ultrasound Bioeffects among
Saudi Sonographers]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133719</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Ultrasound tends to produce biological effects on body tissues. Therefore, the application of ultrasound safety rules is needed in all ultrasound examinations to avoid bioeffects that may occur because of a high thermal index (TI) and mechanical index (MI). This study aimed to explore the Saudi sonographers' awareness of ultrasound safety and bioeffects. <P> Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, and the data was collected using an online survey google forms questionnaire disseminated through social media (Telegram, WhatsApp, and Twitter) as an electronic link. A total of 70 participants responded to the survey directly, and then, the data was analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science). <P> Results: Regarding the awareness of TI and MI, 64.3% of the participants were aware of TI and 65.7% of MI as safety ultrasound indices; moreover, 74.3% of the participants were aware of the ALARA principle “As Low as Reasonably Achievable.” Participants' knowledge concerning more heat production in pulsed Doppler ultrasound modes was poor (31.5%). Most of the sonographers, i.e, 77.1% were aware of the relationship between the risk of cavitation and MI, and 58.6% of the participants were acquainted with the current FDA output limits. In comparison, 58.6% of the participants were aware of the bioeffects of ultrasound contrast agents. There was no significant correlation between the educational level and the degree of awareness of ultrasound bioeffects and safety (P-value> 0.05). <P> Conclusion: In this study, it was found that sonographers were aware of the theoretical principles of ultrasound safety indices and the ALARA principle, although they had poor knowledge of ultrasound bioeffects in Doppler mode.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chest CT Image based Lung Disease Classification – A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135265</link><description><![CDATA[Computed tomography (CT) scans are widely used to diagnose lung conditions due to their ability to provide a detailed overview of the body's respiratory system. Despite its popularity, visual examination of CT scan images can lead to misinterpretations that impede a timely diagnosis. Utilizing technology to evaluate images for disease detection is also a challenge. As a result, there is a significant demand for more advanced systems that can accurately classify lung diseases from CT scan images. In this work, we provide an extensive analysis of different approaches and their performances that can help young researchers to build more advanced systems. First, we briefly introduce diagnosis and treatment procedures for various lung diseases. Then, a brief description of existing methods used for the classification of lung diseases is presented. Later, an overview of the general procedures for lung disease classification using machine learning (ML) is provided. Furthermore, an overview of recent progress in ML-based classification of lung diseases is provided. Finally, existing challenges in ML techniques are presented. It is concluded that deep learning techniques have revolutionized the early identification of lung disorders. We expect that this work will equip medical professionals with the awareness they require in order to recognize and classify certain medical disorders.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Novel Approach to the Technique of Lung Region Segmentation Based on a
Deep Learning Model to Diagnose COVID-19 X-ray Images]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138542</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The novel coronavirus pandemic has caused a global health crisis, placing immense strain on healthcare systems worldwide. Chest X-ray technology has emerged as a critical tool for the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19. However, the manual interpretation of chest X-ray films has proven to be inefficient and time-consuming, necessitating the development of an automated classification system. <p> Objective: In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we aimed to develop a deep learning model that accurately classifies chest X-ray images, specifically focusing on lung regions, to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of COVID-19 and pneumonia diagnosis. <p> Methods: We have proposed a novel deep network called “FocusNet” for precise segmentation of lung regions in chest radiographs. This segmentation allows for the accurate extraction of lung contours from chest X-ray images, which are then input into the classification network, ResNet18. By training the model on these segmented lung datasets, we sought to improve the accuracy of classification. <p> Results: The performance of our proposed system was evaluated on three types of lung regions in normal individuals, COVID-19 patients, and those with pneumonia. The average accuracy of the segmentation model (FocusNet) in segmenting lung regions was found to be above 90%. After reclassification of the segmented lung images, the specificities and sensitivities for normal, COVID-19, and pneumonia were excellent, with values of 98.00%, 99.00%, 99.50%, and 98.50%, 100.00%, and 99.00%, respectively. ResNet18 achieved impressive area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.99, 1.00, and 0.99 for classifying normal, COVID-19, and pneumonia, respectively, on the segmented lung datasets. Moreover, the AUC values of the three groups increased by 0.02, 0.02, and 0.06, respectively, when compared to the direct classification of unsegmented original images. Overall, the accuracy of lung region classification after processing the datasets was 99.3%. <p> Conclusion: Our deep learning-based automated chest X-ray classification system, incorporating lung region segmentation using FocusNet and subsequent classification with ResNet18, has significantly improved the accuracy of diagnosing respiratory lung diseases, including COVID-19. The proposed approach has great potential to revolutionize the diagnosis of COVID-19 and other respiratory lung diseases, offering a valuable tool to support healthcare professionals during health crises.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Calcific Tendinopathy Atypically Located Outside the Rotator Cuff: A
Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130811</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background and Purpose: Calcific tendinopathy is a common cause of painful shoulder easily identified with ultrasound or conventional radiography. Although the rotator cuff is by far the most common location of the disease and diagnostic or treatment strategies are well known in clinical practice, a lack of awareness characterizes the assessment of the other sites affected by this condition; consequently, the risk of underestimating the prevalence of atypical non-rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy is high. This may lead to expensive or invasive diagnostic exams and/or inappropriate treatment, whereas the condition is usually self-limited. <p> The present study aims at analysing the frequency of calcific tendinitis in uncommon sites, in order to fill a gap in knowledge and awareness regarding non-rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy, thus avoiding improper clinical choices and helping to identify this condition. <p> Methods: This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. We performed a search on Pubmed and Scopus databases concerning atypically sited extra-rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy published since 1950. <p> Results: The research found a total of 267 articles and 793 non-rotator cuff cases of calcific tendinopathy registered. The spine (213 – 26.86%), foot and ankle (191 – 23.95%), and hip (175 – 22.06%) appeared to be the most common sites of calcific tendinopathy after the rotator cuff, whereas the longus colli C1-C2 (204 – 25.72%), Achilles (173 – 21.81%), and rectus femori (61 – 7.69%) were the most commonly affected tendons. <p> Conclusion: A better awareness of this condition in several different sites of the body than the rotator cuff could avoid unnecessary choices both in assessment and treatment.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Comparison of Imaging Characteristics of Gangliogliomas between
Child/Adolescent Group and Adult Group]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134299</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Ganglioglioma is a rare, slowly proliferating mixed glioneuronal tumor, with the highest incidence observed in children and young adults, but it can also occur in adults. <P> Objective: This study aimed to compare the imaging characteristics of ganglioglioma in children/adolescents and adults to facilitate radiographic diagnosis. <P> Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 32 patients were included and divided into two groups: the child/adolescent group (age &#60; 18 years, n=19) and the adult group (age ≥ 18 years, n=13). Various variables were analyzed, including maximum diameter, location, periphery, border, calcification, unenhanced CT attenuation, T1WI, T2WI/FLAIR, and DWI signal intensity, enhancement pattern, degree of enhancement, homogeneity of enhancement, solid/cystic component, peri-tumoral edema, intra-tumoral septa, peri-tumoral capsule, and intra-tumoral hemorrhage. <P> Results: Most gangliogliomas were situated in the peripheral regions, particularly in the temporal lobe. The majority exhibited hypointense/isointense signals on T1WI and hyperintense signals on T2WI/FLAIR and DWI, with predominantly heterogeneous nodular enhancement. Peri-tumoral edema was significantly less frequent in the child/adolescent group, while marked enhancement was significantly more common in the adult group. There was no significant difference in maximum diameter between the child/adolescent group and the adult group. <P> Conclusion: Peri-tumoral edema was significantly less prevalent in the child/adolescent group, whereas marked enhancement was significantly more frequent in the adult group. To ensure accurate results, a larger case series should be conducted to validate our findings.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Motion-resolved 3D Pulmonary MRI Reconstruction using Sinusoidal
Representation Networks]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137538</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Deep learning reconstruction for free-breathing pulmonary MRI. <p> Objective: To propose a motion-resolved 3D pulmonary MRI reconstruction scheme using the sinusoidal representation network (SIREN). <p> Methods: The proposed scheme learns the registration maps using SIREN to register an averaging image to get the final reconstructions. The learning of the network relies only on the undersampled data from the specific subject. The usage of the network for outputting the registration maps enables a memory-efficient algorithm, as outputting registration maps instead of images only requires small networks. The training of the network based on only undersampled data enables an unsupervised learning scheme, which makes the proposed scheme useful in cases in which fully sampled data is not available. <p> Results: We compare the proposed SIREN-based motion-resolved reconstruction with two state-of-the-art methods for ten datasets. Both visual and quantitative comparison indicates the better performance of the proposed method. <p> Conclusion: In conclusion, the use of SIREN for 3D pulmonary MRI reconstruction allows for the efficient and accurate reconstruction of data that has been undersampled.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Diagnostic Value of Chest X-Ray in Febrile Patients without Localizing Signs or
Symptoms at the Emergency Department]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130113</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The chest X-ray (CXR) remains a widely used examination in the evaluation of patients with fever, to diagnose or rule out pneumonia. Recently, a study by our group suggested that it has no diagnostic value in patients with fever without respiratory signs and/or symptoms. <p> Objective: The objective of this study is to validate the results of our previous study. <p> Design: A retrospective study was conducted in two hospitals in the Netherlands. <p> Patients: All patients that were referred to the internal medicine emergency department between May 2018 and May 2019 with a suspected infection defined as fever (temperature ≥38°C) or hypothermia (temperature <36°C) or CRP ≥100μg/mL. <p> Main Measures: We defined our primary outcome as the number of newly diagnosed pneumonia by CXR in cases of suspected infection with no obvious site of infection and nor localizing symptoms or signs. <p> Key Results: We included 1052 patients, of which 106 did not have respiratory signs or symptoms. In this group, none of the CXRs (95% CI 0-2.36%) showed an infiltrate. Combined with our previous study, 176 CXRs were performed in patients with no respiratory signs or symptoms. None (95% CI 0-1.42%) showed an infiltrate. <p> Conclusion: Our results confirm that a CXR has no diagnostic value in the workup of fever without localizing signs or symptoms.</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[3D-Bioprinting and AI-empowered Anatomical Structure Designing: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139656</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The recent advancements and detailed studies in the field of 3D bioprinting have made it a promising avenue in the field of organ shortage, where many patients die awaiting transplantation. The main challenges bioprinting faces are precision during printing, vascularization, and cell proliferation. Additionally, overcoming these shortcomings requires experts from engineering, medicine, physics, etc., and if accomplished, it will significantly benefit humankind. <P> Objective: This paper covers the general roadmap of the bioprinting process, different kinds of bioinks, and available bioprinters. The paper also includes designing the anatomical structure, which is the first phase of the bioprinting process, and how AI has facilitated this entire process of 3D printing in healthcare and associated applications like medical modelling and disease modelling. <P> Methods: The process of 3D bioprinting involves meticulous structure designing of the anatomical structure under study, which forms the base of the entire bioprinting process. One of the significant applications of 3D printing in healthcare is Medical Modelling and Disease Modelling, which requires the detection of disease in anatomy and its delineation from the rest of anatomy for meticulous creation of ROI using sophisticated segmentation software(s) for the construction of 3D models of diseased anatomy and healthy anatomical surroundings. <P> Conclusion: The study concluded that bioprinting is the future of the worldwide organ transplantation crisis. Anatomical accuracy is an important aspect that must be considered while producing 3D models. The reproduction of patient-specific 3D models requires human rights and ethics approval under four principles of ethics in healthcare: autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice.</P>]]></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[A Review on Psoriasis Pathophysiology, Clinical Appearance, and
Pharmacotherapeutic Interventions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136600</link><description><![CDATA[A chronic skin condition called psoriasis can manifest as plaque, flexural, guttate, pustular, and erythrodermic lesions, among other clinical symptoms. Sixty million people are believed to be affected by psoriasis worldwide. In India, the frequency ranges from 0.44 to 2.8%, with males affected two times more frequently than females in their third or fourth decade of life. An immune-mediated inflammation condition with a sizable genetic component is psoriasis. Due to its connection to psoriatic arthritis and the increased prevalence of cardiometabolic, hepatic, and psychiatric problems, a thorough and interdisciplinary strategy for treatment is required. Corticosteroids and analogs of vitamin D are examples of topical treatments for psoriasis. Phototherapy includes NB-UVB, psoralen, and ultraviolet radiation (PUVA). Standard systemic treatments include methotrexate, acitretin, and ciclosporin. This disease is useful for physicians and scientists since it might be used as a model for research into the underlying causes of chronic inflammation. It is also crucial for clinical trial scientists as a first-choice disease indication for preliminary research of new pathogenesis-based treatment approaches. This review covers both the therapeutic choices that have resulted from the analysis of the aggressive psoriatic pathways and the processes involved in the onset and progression of the disease. We start by writing regarding the important cell kinds and inflammatory mechanisms that initiate and maintain psoriatic inflammation. Next, we discuss how skin flora interacts with heredity, related epigenetic processes, and the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Finally, we provide a thorough analysis of recently targeted medications as well as well-known, extensively used treatments.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Imaging Findings of Calcifying Nested Stromal-Epithelial Tumour of the Liver:
A Case Report and Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139856</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: A calcifying nested stromal-epithelial tumour (CNSET) is an erratic primary liver malignant tumour frequently discovered in young girls and females. Neither its pathogenesis nor its nosogenesis is clearly known. While principally indolent, infrequent tumours with aggressive clinical progression have been defined. This paper describes a CNSET case with rare clinical and imaging features. <p> Case Presentation: A 17-year-old girl initially presented with enlarged lymph nodes near the main portal vein of the liver and a large liver tumour. Lesions were identified on the imaging findings obtained <i>via</i> positron emission tomography–computed tomography (CT) scanning, including an abnormal increase of heterogeneous glucose metabolism in the intrahepatic mass, with a maximum standardised uptake value of around 3.2. The CT imaging showed multiple dense shadows in the lesion, while the magnetic resonance imaging indicated a long T1 and a slightly longer T2. <p> Conclusions: This study summarises the imaging features of CNSETs to provide a reference for diagnosing liver tumours. In addition, the literature on the topics covered was systematically reviewed.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Combination of Multiple MRI Parameters Related to Signal Intensity and
Volume for Predicting Response to Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy by
Patients with Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136365</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: MRI of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) can predict the pathological complete response (pCR) to preoperative chemoradiation therapy (CRT). Our purpose was to use MRI results to evaluate the diagnostic value of combined changes in signal intensity (SI) and volume (V) of patients with LARC for predicting pCR to CRT. <p> Methods: This retrospective study on 100 patients with LARC analyzed clinical and imaging data that were collected from March, 2018, to March, 2020. Before and after CRT, T2-weighted (T2W), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (ceT1W) data were analyzed. Percent changes of V (%&#916;V) and relative SI ratio (%&#916;SIR) on different sequences were calculated. After CRT, patients had pathological confirmation as pCR or non-pCR. Data were analyzed using nonparametric tests and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. <p> Results: There were 34 pCR and 66 non-pCR patients. Except for ADC-%&#916;SIR, the combined parameters and single parameters had a greater decrease in the pCR group. The combination of ADC-%&#916;V and T2W-%&#916;SIR had the greatest diagnostic value (AUC=0.85,cutoff=0.23%) and the combination of ADC-%&#916;V% and &#916;SIR had the best accuracy (89%, cutoff=44.11%). Except for T2W-%&#916;V and T2W-%&#916;SIR, the different sequences had moderate differences in diagnostic performance. The diagnostic performance of combined parameters or single parameters on ADC and T2W was significantly better than those on ceT1W (p&#60;0.01). <p> Conclusion: All sequences except ADC-%&#916;SIR provided reliable predictions of pCR, although ceT1W data had limited usefulness.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Review of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Post-processing for the Brain
Tumor-related Epilepsy Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131221</link><description><![CDATA[20% of brain tumor patients present with seizures at the onset of diagnosis, while a further 25-40% develop epileptic seizures as the tumor progresses. Tumor-related epilepsy (TRE) is a condition in which the tumor causes recurring, unprovoked seizures. The occurrence of TRE differs between patients, along with the effectiveness of treatment methods. Therefore, determining the tumor properties that correlate with epilepsy can help guide TRE treatment. This article reviews the MRI sequences and image post-processing algorithms in the study of TRE. It focuses on epilepsy caused by glioma tumors because it is the most common type of malignant brain tumor and it has a high prevalence of epilepsy. In correlational TRE studies, conventional MRI sequences and diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) are used to extract variables related to the tumor radiological characteristics, called imaging factors. Image post-processing is used to correlate the imaging factors with the incidence of epilepsy. The earlier studies of TRE used univariate and multivariate analysis to study the correlations between specific variables and incidence of epilepsy. Later, studies used voxel-based morphometry and voxel lesion-symptom mapping. Radiomics has been recently used to post-process the images for the study of TRE. This article will discuss the limitation of the existing imaging modalities and post-processing algorithms. It ends with some suggestions and challenges for future TRE studies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[<sup>18</sup>F-DGPET/CT Imaging of Ovarian Yolk Sac Tumor in a Woman after
Induction of Labor: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139676</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Ovarian yolk sac tumor (OYST) during pregnancy is rare and usually missed. There are few PET/CT studies on OYST in the literature. We reported a case of OYST detected by <sup>18</sup>F-FDG PET/CT in a woman after induction of labor. <p> Case Presentation: A 19-year-old woman after induction of labor because of severe malformation presented with abdominopelvic mass, laboratory tests revealed significantly elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level and elevated carbohydrate antigen 125 level. Abdomino-pelvic CT showed a cysticsolid mass of 82×152×167mm arising from the right ovary with abundant intratumoral vessels and intense enhancement in the solid part. Further evaluation of <sup>18</sup>F-FDG PET/CT imaging showed significantly increased <sup>18</sup>FDG uptake (SUVmax7.7) by the solid component of the ovarian mass and slight <sup>18</sup>FDG-avid perihepatic effusion. The mass was resected and was confirmed to be the right OYST, After four courses of chemotherapy, the patient was followed up by PET/CT and had a complete metabolic response. <p> Discussion: <sup>18</sup>F-FDG PET/CT is a useful imaging modality for diagnosis and evaluation of OYST.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[New Drug for Management of Severe Uncontrolled Asthma: Tezepelumab]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136657</link><description><![CDATA[Tezepelumab is a first-in-class human IgG2λ monoclonal antibody used to treat severe, uncontrolled asthma. Tezepelumab acts by hindering the action of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), an epithelial-derived cytokine that triggers an immunological response by binding to TSLP and thereby preventing its binding with the TSLP receptor complex. TSLP has a critical role in Th2 immunity and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of asthma because it stimulates the production of Th2-associated inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-4, interleukin-5, interleukin-9, and interleukin-13. It is the first biologic with no phenotypic or biomarker restrictions that has been approved for use in severe asthma. Tezepelumab is indicated in severe, uncontrolled asthma patients due to its safety, tolerability, and efficacy. Adults with severe, uncontrolled asthma experienced considerably lower annualised asthma exacerbation rates (AAERs) when administered with tezepelumab compared to a placebo. These preliminary results indicated that the TSLP-induced release of T2 inflammatory mediators may be reduced, and the sustained inhibition was maintained over a 52-week treatment period. In this review, we have summarised various phase III clinical trials and the mechanism of action of tezepelumab in severe, uncontrolled asthma.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effect of Breath Training on Image Quality of Chest Magnetic Resonance Free-breathing
Sequence]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138787</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays a role in demonstrating substantial utility in lung lesion imaging, detection, diagnosis, and evaluation. Previous studies have found that free-breathing star VIBE sequences not only have high image quality but also have a high ability to detect and display nodules. However, in our routine clinical practice, we have encountered suboptimal image quality in the free-breathing sequences of certain patients. <p> Objective: This study aims to assess the impact of breath training on the quality of chest magnetic resonance imaging obtained during free-breathing sequences. <p> Methods: A total of 68 patients with lung lesions, such as nodules or masses detected via Computed Tomography (CT) examination, were prospectively gathered. They were then randomly divided into two groups: an observation group and a control group. Standard preparation was performed for all patients in both groups before the examination. The observation group underwent 30 minutes of breath training prior to the MRI examination additionally, followed by the acquisition of MRI free-breathing sequence images. The signal intensity (SI) and standard deviation (SD) of the lesion and adjacent normal lung tissue were measured, and the image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast signal-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the lesion were calculated for objective image quality evaluation. The subjective image quality of the two groups of images was also evaluated using a 5-point method. <p> Results: MRI examinations were completed in both groups. Significantly better subjective image quality (edge and internal structure clarity, vascular clarity, breathing and cardiac artifacts, and overall image quality) was achieved in the observation group compared to the control group (P&#60;0.05). In addition, higher SNR and CNR values for disease lesions were observed in the observation group compared to the control group (t=4.35, P&#60;0.05; t=5.35, P<0.05). <p> Conclusion: It is concluded that the image quality of free-breathing sequences MRI can be improved through breath training before examination.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Current Concepts of Pain Pathways: A Brief Review of Anatomy, Physiology,
and Medical Imaging]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131942</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Although the essential components of pain pathways have been identified, a thorough comprehension of the interactions necessary for creating focused treatments is still lacking. Such include more standardised methods for measuring pain in clinical and preclinical studies and more representative study populations. <p> Objective: This review describes the essential neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of pain nociception and its relation with currently available neuroimaging methods focused on health professionals responsible for treating pain. <p> Methods: Conduct a PubMed search of pain pathways using pain-related search terms, selecting the most relevant and updated information. <p> Results: Current reviews of pain highlight the importance of their study in different areas from the cellular level, pain types, neuronal plasticity, ascending, descending, and integration pathways to their clinical evaluation and neuroimaging. Advanced neuroimaging techniques such as fMRI, PET, and MEG are used to better understand the neural mechanisms underlying pain processing and identify potential targets for pain therapy. <p> Conclusion: The study of pain pathways and neuroimaging methods allows physicians to evaluate and facilitate decision-making related to the pathologies that cause chronic pain. Some identifiable issues include a better understanding of the relationship between pain and mental health, developing more effective interventions for chronic pain's psychological and emotional aspects, and better integrating data from different neuroimaging modalities for the clinical efficacy of new pain therapies.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Comparison of Doppler Imaging and Microvascular Imaging in Cervical Lymph
Node Blood Flow Analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140477</link><description><![CDATA[Cervical lymph node metastasis is an important determinant of cancer stage and the selection of an appropriate treatment plan for patients with head and neck cancer. Therefore, metastatic cervical lymph nodes should be effectively differentiated from lymphoma, tuberculous lymphadenitis, and other benign lymphadenopathies. The aim of this work is to describe the performance of Doppler ultrasound and superb microvascular imaging (SMI) in evaluating blood flow information of cervical lymph nodes. In addition, the features of flow imaging in metastatic lymph nodes, lymphoma, and tuberculous lymphadenitis were described. Compared with Doppler ultrasound, SMI, the latest blood flow imaging technology, could detect more blood flow signals because the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of SMI in the diagnosis of cervical lymph node disease were higher. This article summarizes the value of Doppler ultrasound and SMI in evaluating cervical lymph node diseases and focuses on the diagnostic performance of SMI.]]></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[Blend U-Net: Redesigning Skip Connections to Obtain Multiscale Features for
Lung CT Images Segmentation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135937</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Lung cancer is a pervasive and persistent issue worldwide, with the highest morbidity and mortality among all cancers for many years. In the medical field, computer tomography (CT) images of the lungs are currently recognized as the best way to help doctors detect lung nodules and thus diagnose lung cancer. U-Net is a deep learning network with an encoder-decoder structure, which is extensively employed for medical image segmentation and has derived many improved versions. However, these advancements do not utilize various feature information from all scales, and there is still room for future enhancement. <p> Methods: In this study, we proposed a new model called Blend U-Net, which incorporates nested structures, redesigned long and short skip connections, and deep supervisions. The nested structures and the long and short skip connections combined characteristic information of different levels from feature maps in all scales, while the deep supervision learning hierarchical representations from all-scale concatenated feature maps. Additionally, we employed a mixed loss function to obtain more accurate results. <p> Results: We evaluated the performance of the Blend U-Net against other architectures on the publicly available Lung Image Database Consortium and Image Database Resource Initiative (LIDC-IDRI) dataset. Moreover, the accuracy of the segmentation was verified by using the dice coefficient. Blend U-Net with a boost of 0.83 points produced the best outcome in a number of baselines. <p> Conclusion: Based on the results, our method achieves superior performance in terms of dice coefficient compared to other methods and demonstrates greater proficiency in segmenting lung nodules of varying sizes.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Atypical Radiological Findings of Capillary Hemangioma in Right Atrium: A
Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130859</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cardiac hemangiomas account for only 2.8% of primary cardiac tumors and are caused by the abnormal proliferation of endothelial cells and excess blood vessels. Typical radiological findings of cardiac hemangioma demonstrate intense contrast enhancement. <p> Case Presentation: Here we report the case of a 69-year-old man who presented with a right atrial mass found incidentally with multimodal imaging findings, including echocardiography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This case presented with poor enhancement within right atrial mass on dynamic contrast-enhanced CT scan and gadolinium-enhanced first-pass perfusion image of cardiac MRI. After surgical resection, the pathologic diagnosis of cardiac capillary hemangioma was made. <p> Conclusion: Cardiac hemangioma could be included in the differential diagnosis for cardiac neoplasms demonstrating poor enhancements on CT and MRI scans.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Patient Radiation Doses assessment at Diagnostic X-rays Department of King
Khalid hospital (KKH)-Majmaah]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130314</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The study was conducted on patients who received diagnostic X-rays in King Khalid Hospital (KKH), Majmaah. <p> Introduction: The study included the seven most frequently performed investigations, which were carried out on over 1504 patients using digital radiography equipment. <p> Methods: The X-ray tube&#039;s output and exposure parameters were used to calculate the effective dose (ED) and patient entry surface air kerma (ESAK). Additionally, based on these results, conversion coefficients were determined. This study also examined the 75th percentile distributions of ESAK and KAP. The findings of this research were compared with the findings of other researchers throughout the country and the world. The study presents the uncertainty U values, as well as the mean ESAK, KAP, and ED values. <p> Results: The results of the ESAK, KAP, and ED values were 0.12-5.74 mGy, 0.9-1.84 Gy cm2, and 0.01-0.23 mSv, respectively. As a result, the dosages were much lower than those previously published for the European DRL, national standards, and other studies. <p> Conclusion: The study concludes that during dose surveys, the importance of detecting and comprehending radiation doses, as well as the proper technique for taking the finest photos possible, can be emphasized to patients in order to assist them in avoiding radioactive particles and radiation exposure.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Performance of the Iterative OSEM and HYPER Algorithm for Total-body PET
at SUVmax with a Low 18F-FDG Activity, a Short Acquisition Time and Small
Lesions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139356</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: The primary objective of this comparative investigation was to examine the qualitative attributes of image reconstructions utilizing two distinct algorithms, namely OSEM and HYPER Iterative, in total-body 18F- FDG PET/CT under various acquisition durations and injection activities. <p> Methods: An initial assessment was executed using a NEMA phantom to compare image quality engendered by OSEM and HYPER Iterative algorithms. Parameters such as BV, COV, and CRC were meticulously evaluated. Subsequently, a prospective cohort study was conducted on 50 patients, employing both reconstruction algorithms. The study was compartmentalized into distinct acquisition time and dosage groups. Lesions were further categorized into three size-based groups. Quantifiable metrics including SD of noise, SUV<sub>max</sub>, SNR, and TBR were computed. Additionally, the differences in values, namely &#916;SUV<sub>max</sub>, &#916;TBR, %&#916;SUV<sub>max</sub>, %&#916;SD, and %&#916;SNR, between OSEM and HYPER Iterative algorithms were also calculated. <p> Results: The HYPER Iterative algorithm showed reduced BV and COV compared to OSEM in the phantom study, with constant acquisition time. In the clinical study, lesion SUV<sub>max</sub>, TBR, and SNR were significantly elevated in images reconstructed using the HYPER Iterative algorithm in comparison to those generated by OSEM (p &#60; 0.001). Furthermore, an amplified increase in SUV<sub>max</sub> was predominantly discernible in lesions with dimensions less than 10 mm. Metrics such as %&#916;SNR and %&#916;SD in HYPER Iterative exhibited improvements correlating with reduced acquisition times and dosages, wherein a more pronounced degree of enhancement was observable in both &#916;SUV<sub>max</sub> and &#916;TBR. <p> Conclusion: The HYPER Iterative algorithm significantly improves SUV<sub>max</sub> and reduces noise level, with particular efficacy in lesions measuring ≤ 10 mm and under conditions of abbreviated acquisition times and lower dosages.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Case Report of Diffuse-type Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor as a Calcaneus
Mass: A Diagnostic Challenge]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138999</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Diffuse-type tenosynovial giant cell tumor (D-TGCT) originates from synovial cells in tendon sheaths and bursae and rarely presents as a calcaneal mass. <p> Case Report: A 44-year-old female presented with left heel pain that had persisted for over a year and had worsened over the past six months. A mass was found on the Lateral radiograph of the calcaneus, which was diagnosed as an aneurysmal bone cyst. Non-contrast computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)diagnosed a benign tumor. Based on light microscopy, special stains, and immunohistochemistry, a final diagnosis of diffuse tenosynovial giant cell tumor (D-TGCT) was rendered. <p> Results: D-TGCT is a slow-growing, infiltrative tumor that can form single or multiple masses outside the joint, and can also involve adjacent jointsmainly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knee, hip, and ankle. However, D-TGCT presents as a calcaneal mass, which poses a diagnostic challenge for all radiologists. <p> Conclusion: A calcaneal mass exhibiting well-defined borders, focal cortical destruction, a sclerotic rim, and T2WI hypointensity, the possibility of D-TGCT should be considered.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Gastric Teratoma in an Adult Female Patient: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133884</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Gastric teratoma (GT) occurs as a rule in infancy and is an extremely unusual gastric tumor in adult patients. <p> Case Presentation: In this paper, we present the clinical and imaging findings of a 56-year-old female patient with a GT. The patient's main symptoms were increasing abdominal discomfort and pain. After the physical examination, she underwent ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT), which showed a large mass at the posterior wall of the stomach, and a teratoma was initially considered. After surgery, pathology confirmed the diagnosis of GT. The patient recovered after surgery and was discharged in good health. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first reported case of gastric teratoma in an adult woman in the literature. <p> Conclusion: Gastric teratoma of the adult period is a rare benign neoplasm that may have several complications; therefore, imaging is crucial for diagnosis and accurate treatment management. The aim of this study is to emphasize the value of US and CT in the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of mature gastric teratomas.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[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[Analysis of the Imaging Features and Prognosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Complicated with Pulmonary Embolism]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130572</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: This study aimed to explore the imaging characteristics of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis complicated with pulmonary embolism and analyze the prognosis of the condition, thereby reducing the mortality and misdiagnosis rate of complications in this type of pulmonary tuberculosis. <P> Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 70 patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism by computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) from January 2016 to May 2021 in Anhui Chest Hospital were included. Among them, 35 patients with pulmonary embolism combined with pulmonary tuberculosis were set as the study group, and the other 35 patients with pulmonary embolism only were set as the control group. The imaging findings of chest CT examination, the incidence of pulmonary hypertension, the level of N-terminal proto-B-type brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and the prognosis of patients were compared between the two groups. The incidence of deep venous embolism was evaluated by ultrasonography of the lower extremity. <P> Results: In the study group, the median age of patients was 71 years, and the ratio of males to females was 2.5 to 1. In the control group, the median age was 66 years old, and the male-to-female ratio was 2.2 to 1. There were 16 cases (16/35, 45.71%) in the study group and 10 cases (10/35, 28.57%) in the control group with an increased level of NT-proBNP. Pulmonary hypertension occurred in 10 patients (10/35, 28.57%) in the study group and 7 patients (7/35, 20.00%) in the control group. Patients who lost follow-up included 5 in the study group (5/35, 14.29%) and 3 in the control group (3/35, 8.57%). There were 17 cases (17/35, 48.57%) in the study group and 3 cases (3/35, 8.57%) in the control group with pulmonary artery widening, and the difference was significant (P < 0.001). There were 13 deaths in the study group (13/35, 37.14%) and 1 death in the control group (1/35, 2.86%), and the difference was significant (P <0.001). <P> Conclusion: Special signs of pulmonary artery widening, pulmonary hypertension of varying degrees, and increased levels of NT-proBNP of varying degrees can be found in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis complicated with pulmonary embolism, and the three signs are positively correlated. The mortality of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis complicated with pulmonary embolism is significantly higher than that of patients with pulmonary embolism alone. Pulmonary tuberculosis and pulmonary embolism both occur in the ipsilateral lung, causing clinical symptoms to cover each other, thereby making diagnosis difficult.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Discrimination between Benign and Malignant Lung Lesions using Volumetric
Quantitative Dynamic Contrast-enhanced MRI]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133223</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) is considered a promising method in lung lesion assessment. <p> Methods: Sixty-four patients with single pulmonary lesions (SPLs) received DCE-MRI at 3.0 T. Of them, 49 cases were diagnosed with lung cancer, and 15 with benign pulmonary nodules (8 inflammatory nodules, 5 tuberculosis, and 2 abscesses). SPLs were quantitatively analyzed to determine the pulmonary lesions-related perfusion parameters, including reflux constant (Kep), volume transfer constant (K<sub>trans</sub>), the maximum slope of increase (MaxSlope), extravascular extracellular space volume fraction (Ve), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), the initial area in the signal intensitytime curve (IAUGC), and contrast-enhancement ratio (CER). In addition, a Student’s t-test was conducted to calculate statistical significance regarding the quantitatively analyzed perfusion parameters in benign SPLs compared to malignant SPLs. The area under (AUC) the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was studied to investigate the performance of perfusion parameters in diagnosing lung cancer. <p> Results: Values of K<sub>trans</sub>, Kep, Ve, MaxSlope, and IAUGC increased within malignant nodules relative to benign nodules (K<sub>trans</sub>: 0.21 ±0.08 vs. 0.73 ±0.40, P = 0.0001; Kep: 1.21 ±0.66 vs. 1.83 ±0.90, P = 0.0163; Ve: 0.24 ±0.08 vs. 0.47 ±0.18, P &#60; 0.0001; MaxSlope: 0.09 ±0.14 vs. 0.28 ±0.29, P = 0.0166; IAUGC: 0.18 ±0.09 vs. 0.55 ±0.34, P = 0.0001). Meanwhile, malignant nodules presented higher ADC than benign nodules (0.0016 ±0.0006 vs. 0.0012 ±0.0003, P = 0.0019). K<sub>trans</sub> and IAUGC showed the best diagnostic performance with AUCs [1.0, 95%CI (0.99–1.0); 0.93, 95%CI(0.85–1.0), respectively]. <p> Conclusion: Malignant pulmonary lesions had higher values of K<sub>trans</sub>, Ve, Kep, MaxSlope, and IAUGC compared to benign pulmonary lesions. Overall, perfusion parameters of DCE-MRI facilitate discrimination between benign from malignant pulmonary nodules.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Novel Combined Model to Predict the Prognosis of COVID-19: Radiologicalmetabolic
Scoring]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131697</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aim: To investigate the performance of a novel radiological-metabolic scoring (RM-S) system to predict mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) requirements among COVID-19 patients and to compare performance with the chest computed-tomography severity-scoring (C-CT-SS). The RMS was created from scoring systems such as visual coronary-artery-calcification scoring (V-CAC-S), hepatic-steatosis scoring (HS-S) and pancreatic-steatosis scoring (PS-S). <p> Methods: Between May 2021 and January 2022, 397 patients with COVID-19 were included in this retrospective cohort study. All demographic, clinical and laboratory data and chest CT images of patients were retrospectively reviewed. RM-S, V-CAC-S, HS-S, PS-S and C-CT-SS scores were calculated, and their performance in predicting mortality and ICU requirement were evaluated by univariate and multivariable analyses. <p> Results: A total of 32 (8.1%) patients died, and 77 (19.4%) patients required ICU admission. Mortality and ICU admission were both associated with older age (p < 0.001). Sex distribution was similar in the deceased vs. survivor and ICU vs. non-ICU comparisons (p = 0.974 and p = 0.626, respectively). Multiple logistic regression revealed that mortality was independently associated with having a C-CT-SS score of ≥ 14 (p < 0.001) and severe RM-S category (p = 0.010), while ICU requirement was independently associated with having a C-CT-SS score of ≥ 14 (p < 0.001) and severe V-CAC-S category (p = 0.010). <p> Conclusion: RM-S, C-CT-SS, and V-CAC-S are useful tools that can be used to predict patients with poor prognoses for COVID-19. Long-term prospective follow-up of patients with high RM-S scores can be useful for predicting long COVID.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Diagnostic Strategy for Suspected Unilateral Absence of the Pulmonary Artery]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139261</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Unilateral absence of the pulmonary artery (UAPA) is a very rare congenital anomaly. <p> Objective: To analyze the diagnostic strategy applied to seven patients with UAPA who were examined and subsequently treated at the National Lung Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam. <p> Methods: All seven patients, including three pediatric cases (1, 2, and 14 years old) and four adult cases (21, 26, 44, and 53 years old), had a history of recurrent pneumonia, and the clinical symptoms on admission included cough, progressive dyspnea, chest pain, and fatigue. The patients were initially examined clinically, followed by hematological testing, blood biochemistry testing, and chest X-ray radiology. The results suggested UAPA, so echocardiography and contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) were performed as soon as practical. <p> Results: The echocardiographic and CT imaging findings confirmed the suspected diagnosis of UAPA in all seven patients, which was accompanied by congenital heart disease in three patients. Three of the seven patients had mild and medium pulmonary hypertension. All seven patients were treated with drugs, which led to improvement in symptoms. <p> Conclusion: Frontal chest X-ray provided the initial signs suggesting a diagnosis of UAPA. Subsequent echocardiography and contrast-enhanced chest CT were effective diagnostic tools for fast and accurate confirmation of UAPA.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Clinical Presentations, MDCT Features, and Treatment of Three Types of Adult
Intussusceptions Based on the Location]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138627</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Purpose: This study aimed to explore the similarities and differences in clinical presentations, multidetector computed tomographic (MDCT) features, and treatment of three types of adult intussusceptions based on location. <P> Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 184 adult patients with 192 intussusceptions. Depending on the location, intussusceptions were classified as enteric, ileocolic, and colonic types. The similarities and differences of clinical presentations, MDCT features, and treatment of three types of adult intussusception were compared. Meanwhile, the three types of intussusceptions were further divided into surgical and conservative groups based on the treatment. Uni- and multivariate logistic analyses were used to identify risk factors for intussusception requiring surgery. <P> Results: Enteric and ileocolic intussusceptions were mainly presented with abdominal pain (78.46% and 85.71%). Hematochezia/melena (64.29%) was the main symptom of colonic intussusception. On MDCT, ileocolic intussusceptions were longer in length and had more signs of intestinal necrosis (hypodense layer, fluid collection and no/poor bowel wall enhancement) than enteric and colonic intussusceptions. Moreover, it was found that 93.88% (46/49) of ileocolic intussusception and 98.59% (70/71) of colonic intussusception belonged to the surgical group, whereas only 43.06% (31/72) of enteric intussusception belonged to the surgical group. Intussusception length (OR=1.171, P=0.028) and discernible lead point on MDCT (OR=21.003, P&#60;0.001) were reliable indicators of enteric intussusception requiring surgery. <P> Conclusion: Ileocolic intussusception may be more prone to intestinal necrosis than enteric and colonic intussusceptions, requiring more attention from clinicians. Surgery remains the treatment of choice for most ileocolic and colonic intussusceptions. Less than half of enteric intussusceptions require surgery, and MDCT features are effective in identifying them.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Alcoholic/Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Detection with Transient
Elastography: A Detailed Review and Meta-analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129723</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The liver plays a significant role in the digestive system, and disease in the liver initiates various other problems. The liver is severely affected due to alcohol use, and it initiates various chronic diseases, including Alcohol-Related Liver Disease (ARLD). Alcoholic/Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD/NFLD) is a severe medical emergency, and early screening and treatment are necessary to cure the patient. The untreated AFLD/NFLD will cause various problems, including fatigue, weight loss, and discomfort in the abdomen. <P> Objective: This study aims to present a detailed review and investigation of schemes considered in medical clinics to identify the AFLD/NFLD coupled problems and present the merit of the Transient Elastography (TE) combined with Fibroscan® practice to identify liver abnormality. <P> Methods: This research aims to study the clinical significance and the accuracy of TE-supported liver illness screening. <P> Results: This work aims to collect the recent research works and clinical reports published from 2011 to 2021 from the chosen databases and provide a detailed review using the clinical information discussed in the selected articles. <P> Conclusion: The essential statistical investigation of the collected data is executed with Review Manager (RevMan®) software, and the significance of the TE is confirmed using the articles supporting a 2x2 contingency table, and each case is evaluated using a p-score and the Region of Convergence (RoC) curve for 95% confidence intervals.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Diagnostic Value of Abnormal Bone Marrow Signal Changes on Magnetic
Resonance Imaging: Is Bone Marrow Biopsy Essential?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138997</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: It is essential to determine whether bone marrow signal changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) represent a physiological response or pathology; at present, the clinical significance of these signal changes is unclear. It is unknown whether a bone marrow biopsy is required when bone marrow signal changes are detected incidentally in individuals without suspected malignancy. <p> Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to determine whether incidentally detected bone marrow signal changes on MRI performed for various reasons (at the time of admission or during follow-up) are clinically significant. <p> Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the bone marrow biopsy clinical and laboratory findings of 42 patients with incidental bone marrow signal changes on MRI between September 2016 and January 2020. We also determined whether the patients were diagnosed with malignancy during admission or follow-up. <p> Results: Of the 42 patients, three (7%) were diagnosed with hematological malignancies during admission, while two were diagnosed with multiple myeloma and one with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Of the 42 patients, 35 had a mean follow-up of 40.6 ± 5.3 months. One patient was diagnosed with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance four months after their first admission. <p> Conclusions: In addition to MRI, detailed clinical and laboratory evaluations should be performed to inform the decision for bone marrow biopsy and exclude hematological malignancy. If there is any doubt, a bone marrow biopsy should be performed. Moreover, since bone marrow signal changes may be a preliminary finding, follow-up of these patients is essential.</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[Intratesticular Vascular Architecture Seen by Ultrasound Microvascular
Imaging (MicroV). Illustration of the Testis Vascular Anatomy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134303</link><description><![CDATA[<P>The testis is a richly vascularized organ supplied by low-flow thin caliber vessels that are only partially detected by traditional Doppler systems, such as color and power Doppler. <P> However, in the vascular representation, these techniques determine, albeit to different extents, a cut of the weak vessels due to the necessary application of wall filters that cut the disturbing frequencies responsible for artifacts generated by pulsations of the vascular walls and surrounding tissues. <P> These filters cut a specific range of disturbing frequencies, regardless of whether they may be generated by low-flow vessels. <P> Recently, a new technology, called Ultrasound Microvascular Imaging (MicroV) has been developed, which is particularly sensitive to slow flows. This new mode is based on new algorithms capable of better selecting the low frequencies according to the source of origin and cutting only the disturbing ones, saving the frequencies originating from really weak flows. <P> When Ultrasound microvascular imaging is used, the vascular map is more detailed and composed of macro and microvasculature, with more subdivision branches, facilitating the interpretation of the normal and, consequently, the pathological. <P> This review aims to describe the vascular architecture of the testis with Ultrasound Microvascular Imaging (MicroV) in healthy testis, compared to traditional color/power Doppler, related to normal anatomy.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Differentiation of Borderline Epithelial Ovarian Tumors from Benign and
Malignant Epithelial Ovarian Tumors by MRI Scoring]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132325</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: The distinction between benign and borderline epithelial ovarian tumors is important because treatment and follow-up strategies differ. <P> Objective: We aimed to evaluate benign, borderline, and malignant epithelial ovarian tumors using MRI features and contributed to the preoperative evaluation. <P> Methods: MRIs of 81 patients (20 bilateral), including 31 benign, 27 borderline, and 23 malignant, who had pelvic imaging between 2013-2020, were evaluated retrospectively. The evaluation was made blindly to the pathology result by two radiologists with MRI scoring and features that we determined. MRI evaluation was performed with T1 TSE, T2 TSE, fat-suppressed T2 TSE, and before and after contrast T1 fat-suppressed and non-fat-suppressed TSE images. The numbers and findings obtained in scoring were evaluated by Chi-Square, ordinal logistic regression, and 2 and 3 category ROC analysis. <P> Results: The total score varied between 7 and 24. Among the three groups, a significant difference was found in terms of T1, T2 signal intensity (p <0.01), size (p = 0.055), solid area (p <0.001), septa number (p <0.05), ovarian parenchyma (p = 0.001), ascites (p <0.001), peritoneal involvement (p <0.001), laterality (p <0.001), contrast enhancement pattern (p <0.001). On the other hand, no significant difference was found in terms of wall thickness, lymph node involvement and endometrial thickness (p> 0.05). Cut-off values were found as 11.5 and 18.5 in the 3-category ROC analysis performed for the score (VUS: 0.8109). Patients with a score below 11.5 were classified as benign, those between 11.5-18.5 as borderline, and those over 18.5 as malignant. <P> Conclusion: The differentiation of borderline tumors from benign and malignant tumors by MRI scoring will contribute to the preoperative diagnosis.</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[Relationships between Size-specific Dose Estimate and Signal to Noise Ratio
under Chest CT Examinations with Tube Current Modulation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138640</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Purpose: Exploring the relationship between the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of organs and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) in tube current modulation (TCM) chest CT examination. <p> Methods: Forty patients who received TCM chest CT scanning were retrospectively collected and divided into four groups according to the tube voltage and sexes. We chose to set up the region of interest (ROI) at the tracheal bifurcation and its upper and lower parts in slice images of the heart, aorta, lungs, paracranial muscles, and female breast, and the SNR of each organ was calculated. We also calculated the corresponding axial volume CT dose index (CTDIvolz) and axial size-specific dose estimate (SSDEz). <p> Results: The correlation analysis showed that the correlation between the SNR of the slice images of most organs and SSDEz was more significant than 0.8, and that between the SNR and CTDIvol was more significant than 0.7. The simple linear regression analysis results showed that when the sex is the same, the SNR of the same organ at 100kVp was higher than 120kVp, except for the lung. In multiple regression analysis, the result indicated that the determination coefficients of the SNR and SSDEz of the four groups were 0.934, 0.971, 0.905, and 0.709, respectively. <p> Conclusion: In chest CT examinations with TCM, the correlation between the SNR of each organ in slice images and SSDEz was better than that of CTDIvolz. And when the SSDEz was the same, the SNR at 100 kVp was better than that at 120 kVp.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MRI Appearances of Stage IA Ovarian Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130006</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: To analyze the MRI findings of stage IA ovarian cancer. <P> Methods: The data on age distribution, clinical symptoms at onset, CA125 detection, MRI findings, including tumor volume, structure, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and enhancement, etc., of the patients with stage IA ovarian cancer, who were admitted to Nantong tumor Hospital between 2013 and 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. <P> Results: Only 11 cases of stage IA ovarian cancer were recorded. The age of patients was 30–67 (average 52) years. The initial symptoms were mostly lower abdominal distension and abdominal pain. CA125 was 90% positive. MRI features 1. Large pelvic mass with a volume range of 23–2,009 cm<sup>3</sup> (average 669 cm<sup>3</sup>). 2. Five cases of cyst type (with plaque-like, papillary, or mural nodule vegetations), two cases of cystic-solid mixed type (with thickened septum or wall), and four cases of solid type. 3. DWI diffusion was limited, and ADC was reduced on all solid components (vegetation, septa, and cyst wall). 4. The solid parts were significantly enhanced on T1-enhanced MRI. 5. There was no metastasis in the pelvic cavity, and a few ascites (negative tumor cells) in three patients. <P> Conclusion: MRI characteristics of stage IA ovarian carcinomas were large tumors; cystic, cystic-solid, or solid; solid parts limited diffusion on DWI and low ADC; enhancement of the cyst wall, vegetation, and septa; no pelvic metastasis.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Potential Value of the Stretched Exponential and Fractional Order Calculus
Model in Discriminating Between Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Intrahepatic
Cholangiocarcinoma: An Animal Experiment of Orthotopic Xenograft Nude
Mice]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130322</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: In clinical practice, Preoperative differentiation between hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is challenging but critical for treatment decisions. <p> Objective: This study investigated the discriminatory power of the stretched-exponential model and fractional-order calculus model parameters for hepatocellular carcinoma versus intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in orthotopic xenograft nude mice. <p> Methods: Prototype orthotopic xenograft models of hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma were developed using 20 nude mice divided into two groups and separately transplanted with MHCC97H and HUCCT1 cells. Readout-segmented diffusion-weighted imaging with multiple b-values (0-2000 s/mm<sup>2</sup>) was obtained using a 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging scanner. The apparent diffusion coefficient was calculated using the mono-exponential model. The distributed diffusion coefficient and intravoxel water molecular diffusion heterogeneity (α) were calculated using the stretched-exponential model. The diffusion coefficient (D), fractional-order derivative in space (&#946;), and spatial parameter (μ) were calculated using the fractional-order calculus model. The liver and tumor specimens of nude mice were immunostained after euthanasia to clarify the liver cancer type. Differences in diffusion-related parameters between the groups were evaluated using Mann-Whitney U-test and univariate logistic analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the diagnostic efficacy of each parameter. P&#60;0.05 was deemed significant. <p> Results: &#945;, D, and &#946; were significant discriminators between the groups. The area under the curve for these three variables was 0.890, 0.830, and 0.870, respectively, with cutoff values of 0.491, 0.435, and 0.782, respectively. <p> Conclusion: The stretched-exponential model parameters &#945; and the fractional-order calculus model parameters D and &#946; showed high diagnostic efficacy in discriminating intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma from hepatocellular carcinoma in orthotopic xenograft nude mouse models.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MRI Insights in Breast Imaging]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138778</link><description><![CDATA[In the world, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women. Currently, MRI is the most sensitive breast imaging method for detecting breast cancer, although false positive rates are still an issue. To date, the accuracy of breast MRI is widely recognized across various clinical scenarios, in particular, staging of known cancer, screening for breast cancer in high-risk women, and evaluation of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Since technical development and further clinical indications have expanded over recent years, dedicated breast radiologists need to constantly update their knowledge and expertise to remain confident and maintain high levels of diagnostic performance in breast MRI. This review aims to detail current and future applications of breast MRI, from technological requirements and advances to new multiparametric and abbreviated protocols, and ultrafast imaging, as well as current and future indications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Regenerative Medicine and Nanotechnology Approaches against Cardiovascular Diseases: Recent Advances and Future Prospective]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138387</link><description><![CDATA[Regenerative medicine refers to medical research focusing on repairing, replacing, or regenerating damaged or diseased tissues or organs. Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) is a significant health issue globally and is the leading cause of death in many countries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one person dies every 34 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular diseases, and according to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. Many conventional treatments are available using different drugs for cardiovascular diseases, but these treatments are inadequate. Stem cells and nanotechnology are promising research areas for regenerative medicine treating CVDs. Regenerative medicines are a revolutionary strategy for advancing and successfully treating various diseases, intending to control cardiovascular disorders. This review is a comprehensive study of different treatment methods for cardiovascular diseases using different types of biomaterials as regenerative medicines, the importance of different stem cells in therapeutics, the expanded role of nanotechnology in treatment, the administration of several types of stem cells, their tracking, imaging, and the final observation of clinical trials on many different levels as well as it aims to keep readers up to pace on emerging therapeutic applications of some specific organs and disorders that may improve from regenerative medicine shortly.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Overview of the Dichotomous Role of Microbiota in Cancer Progression and Management]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138672</link><description><![CDATA[It is a well-known fact that cancer is considered the second leading cause of mortality across the globe. Although the human oral cavity and intestine are the natural habitat of thousands of microbes, dysbiosis results in malignancies, such as oral squamous cell carcinoma and colorectal cancer. Amongst the intestinal microbes, <i>H. pylori</i> is a deadly carcinogen. Also, causative pathogens for the development of pancreatic and colorectal cancer are found in the oral cavity, such as <i>Fusobacterium nucleatum</i> and <i>Porphyromonas gingivalis</i>. Many periodontopathic micro- organisms, like <i>Streptococcus</i> sp., Peptostreptococcus sp., Prevotella sp., Fusobacterium sp., Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Capnocytophaga gingivalis, strongly have an impact on the development of oral cancers. Three basic mechanisms are involved in pathogen-mediated cancer development, like chronic inflammation-mediated angiogenesis, inhibition of cellular apoptosis, and release of carcinogenic by-products. Microbiota has a dichotomous role to play in cancer, i.e., microbiota can be used for cancer management too. Shreds of evidence are there to support the fact that microbiota enhances the chemotherapeutic drug efficacy. This review presents the possible mechanism of the oncogenic effect of microbiota with emphasis on the oral microbiome and also attempts to explain the intricate role of microbiota in cancer management.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Complete Overview of the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome with Recent Advancement in Clinical Trial]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137430</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has emerged as one of the most common endocrine and metabolic disorders seen in women of childbearing age throughout the whole world. The complex pathophysiology, different diagnostic criteria, and various manifestations attached to several environmental factors, including lifestyle influences, have made it one of the most difficult disorders to treat in recent times. In addition, inadequate knowledge among patients and a lack of dedicated approved medications have only enhanced the difficulties in treating such a heterogeneous disorder. </p> <p> Objective: The main objective of this review-type paper is to provide a detailed overview of PCOS along with the current concept of a clinical stance in this complex multigenic disorder. </p> <p> Method : The following databases were used for literature searches: PubMed, Frontiers, Science Direct, Springer, Wiley, and MDPI. For the purpose of finding pertinent articles and contents, the keywords “PCOS; hirsutism; psychological burden; obesity” and others of a similar nature were utilized. </p> <p> Conclusion: PCOS is a complicated hormonal, metabolic, and psychological condition with many different clinical manifestations. It is among the most prevalent causes of infertility. Before considering any medication choices, lifestyle modifications should be considered the primary therapeutic prescription for PCOS-related infertility. According to recent studies, PCOS does not affect the risk of ovarian or breast cancer, but it does raise the risk of endometrial cancer in women of all ages. These results suggest that PCOS may increase the risk of gynaecological cancer morbidity. The following stage is ovulation stimulation, which is best accomplished with letrozole and is followed by clomiphene citrate. Women who had not responded to the first-line oral ovulatory medicine were given gonadotropins as a backup. Early detection of girls with a high propensity to develop PCOS will be made possible by a comprehensive knowledge of the condition's etiology. Adolescent PCOS will be better managed overall, related comorbidities will be prevented, and quality of life will increase with customized therapeutic approaches.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Malignant and Benign Head and Neck Tumors of the Pediatric Age: A Narrative Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137392</link><description><![CDATA[Malignant tumors of the head and neck are rare in children, but it is important to know these lesions and identify them early in order to have a good outcome for these patients. Benign lesions of the head and neck are much more frequent and have an excellent prognosis. For this reason, it is necessary to recognize the warning signs and symptoms and understand when to refer the patient to a reference center for the treatment of these pathologies. The clinical presentation of both benign and malignant lesions in children may be similar as usually, both categories have compressive effects. This confirms the fact that the clinical diagnosis is not sufficient and always requires instrumental investigations and biopsies. In this narrative review, we analyzed both malignant lesions such as lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, thyroid tumors, salivary gland tumors, neuroblastoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and benign ones such as cystic dermoid teratoma, hemangioma, juvenile angiofibroma and fibrosis dysplasia. Indeed, we set out to discuss the most common lesions of this site by evaluating their characteristics to highlight the differentiation of malignant tumors from benign lesions and their correct clinical-therapeutic management. A literature search was carried out in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify all narrative reviews addressing malignant and benign head and neck tumors of the pediatric age. In conclusion, the care of children affected by head and neck benign lesions and malignancy must be combined and multidisciplinary. It is essential to recognize the diseases early in order to differentiate and intervene as soon as possible for the correct clinical-therapeutic management.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prevalence and Outcomes of Infections in Critically-ill Paediatric Oncology Patients: A Retrospective Observation Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137764</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Purpose: The survival of paediatric oncology patients has improved substantially in the past decades due to advances in the field of oncology. Modern cancer treatments often come with life-threatening complications, of which infection is one of the most common causes in this patient population. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and outcomes of common infections in haemato-oncology patients during their stay in paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and to identify any factors associated with these infections. </p> <p> Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on all children with a haemato-oncology diagnosis or who underwent haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and who were admitted to the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital PICU over a one-year period. Infection characteristics and patient outcomes were evaluated and compared between different sub-groups. Univariable and multi-variable analyses were employed to identify risk factors associated with the development of active infection. </p> <p> Results: Forty-five (36.3%) of 124 critically ill haemato-oncology admissions to PICU were associated with infections, of which 31 (25%) admissions involved bacterial infections, 26 (20.9%) involved viral infections and 6 (4.8%) involved fungal infections. Bloodstream infection was the most common type of infection. More than half (61.3%) of the bacterial infections were due to an antibiotic-resistant strain. After adjusting for confounding variables, post-HSCT status and neutropenia were significantly associated with active infections. </p> <p> Conclusion: Infections in critically-ill haemato-oncological patients are associated with post haematopoietic stem cell transplant status and neutropenia. Further study is warranted to review effective strategies that may mitigate the likelihood of infection in this patient population.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[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[Review on Advances in Pediatric Endoscopy in the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137673</link><description><![CDATA[Over the past decades, an increased importance has been given to gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy in the management of children with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), considering that mucosal healing has been recognized as the optimal endpoint in the treat-to-target paradigm. The recent advances in technology and anesthesia have facilitated the comprehensive evaluation of the GI tract. In this review, we will discuss the role of ileocolonoscopy, upper GI endoscopy, and device-assisted enteroscopy in the work-up and management of pediatric Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis, with particular attention on non-invasive endoscopic techniques, such as wireless capsule endoscopy. We will also analyze the most commonly used endoscopic scoring systems, including small bowel scoring systems and endoscopic recurrence grading of neo-terminal ileum CD. Moreover, we will focus on the endoscopic management of complications, such as strictures, that commonly require surgery. Lastly, we will discuss cancer surveillance in children with IBD, with particular consideration of the role of high-definition endoscopic equipment and chromoendoscopy in dysplasia detection rates.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Iodine Status in Cyprus and Neighboring Countries: A Review Article]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138159</link><description><![CDATA[Despite the implementation of global iodine supplementation initiatives in the past decade, the problem of iodine deficiency persists as a significant public health concern in numerous countries. Although cretinism is now rare in developed countries, iodine deficiency can still lead to less severe cognitive deficits, which can negatively impact academic achievement, intellectual capacity, and work productivity. There is a scarcity of studies regarding the status of Cyprus, and the global database does not have any information pertaining to the prevalence of iodine deficiency in Cyprus. The geographical setting of the research is of importance as it pertains to the separation of Cyprus into two distinct areas. One region is predominantly inhabited by Greek Cypriots, where the practice of salt iodization is not mandatory. Conversely, the other region is primarily inhabited by Turkish Cypriots, who may potentially experience higher amounts of iodine contact due to their reliance on food imports from Turkey, where salt-iodisation is compulsory. The main objective of this study is to provide an overview of recent research conducted on the prevalence of iodine deficiency in Cyprus and neighboring Mediterranean nations. In this study, we assess the current method and subsequently offer public health recommendations for future research endeavors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Late Relapse in Neuroblastoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135707</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Neuroblastoma is the most com mon extra-cranial solid tu mor in children. The survival rate of relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma is dismal. Late recurrence may occur rarely. </p> <p> Case Presentation: We have, herein, presented a case with stage IV neuroblastoma who relapsed after 11 years and had a subsequent relapse after 15 years from the initial diagnosis, and reviewed cases with late relapsed (after >5 years) neuroblastoma in the literature. The case presented with recurrent disease at the T7 vertebra after 11 years from the initial diagnosis. The patient received surgery, che motherapy, MIBG treatment, and antiGD2 combined with che motherapy, and had a further local recurrence in the paravertebral area of the re moved T7 vertebra after three years. The patient was operated, received anti-GD2 combined with che motherapy, and is still alive with no symptoms for 19 months after the last relapse. </p> <p> Conclusion: There is not a well-established treatment regimen for the majority of these patients. MIBG treatment and antiGD2 combined with che motherapy may be promising options for relapsed/ refractory neuroblastoma.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Present Scenario and Future Prospects in the Management of Retinoblastoma: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137649</link><description><![CDATA[Retinoblastoma is the most common pediatric ocular cancer. This cancer occurs due to malignancy in retinoblast cells, which are precursors of photoreceptors, horizontal cells, amacrine cells, muller cells, and retinal progenitor cells in the retina of the eye. Genetic correlation has been observed in most cases of retinoblastoma. It is caused due to the suppression or mutation of the retinoblastoma 1 gene (RB1 gene), which is located at the 14th band of both alleles of the 13th human chromosome. RB1 gene is a tumour suppressor gene responsible for regulating cell growth and controlling abnormal cell division. In the last two decades, as accurate identification of characteristic features of cancer cells at various stages of retinoblastoma has been made, we can now plan more advanced and personalized management of the disease due to improved and focused therapeutic effects of cryotherapy, thermotherapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical interventions. These efforts can lead to a better survival rate with reduced damage to the non-cancerous cells in the eyeball, promoting better visual performance (better visual acuity and visual axis alignment). Based on studies published in PubMed and Google Scholar till 2023, current treatment options at various stages of retinoblastoma are reviewed to suggest the most promising treatment options. Based on this information, a clear treatment flowchart has been prepared. This review article can assist researchers, eye specialists, geneticists, and cancer specialists in determining the most promising method for treating retinoblastoma at various stages.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Future of Cystic Fibrosis Care: Exploring AI's Impact on Detection and Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138658</link><description><![CDATA[Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a fatal hereditary condition marked by thicker mucus production, which can cause problems with the digestive and respiratory systems. The quality of life and survival rates of CF patients can be improved by early identification and individualized therapy measures. With an emphasis on its applications in diagnosis and therapy, this paper investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the management of Cystic Fibrosis (CF). AI-powered algorithms are revolutionizing CF diagnosis by utilizing huge genetic, clinical, and imaging data databases. In order to identify CF mutations quickly and precisely, machine learning methods evaluate genomic profiles. Furthermore, AI-driven imaging analysis helps to identify lung and gastrointestinal issues linked to cystic fibrosis early and allows for prompt treatment. Additionally, AI aids in individualized CF therapy by anticipating how patients will react to already available medications and enabling customized treatment regimens. Drug repurposing algorithms find prospective candidates from already-approved drugs, advancing treatment choices. Additionally, AI supports the optimization of pharmacological combinations, enhancing therapeutic results while minimizing side effects. AI also helps with patient stratification by connecting people with CF mutations to therapies that are best for their genetic profiles. Improved treatment effectiveness is promised by this tailored strategy. The transformational potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of cystic fibrosis is highlighted in this review, from early identification to individualized medication, bringing hope for better patient outcomes, and eventually prolonging the lives of people with this difficult ailment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Effectiveness of a Poly-herbal Formulation from Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a Double-Blinded Randomized Clinical Trial]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133311</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) leads to increased contact of the acidic refluxate with the esophageal mucosa. Nearly 10- 20 % of the world's population is affected by GERD. Due to the complications associated with GERD, as well as complications of long-term treatment with current medications, and global demand toward Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), this study evaluated the efficacy of a poly-herbal formulation known as Mastic pill (Habb-e-Mastaki) from traditional Persian medicine (TPM), previously reformulated and standardized, in a double-blinded randomized clinical trial. </p> <p> Method: 34 patients in the drug group received 4 capsules of Mastic pill plus Omeprazole capsule 20 mg daily. 34 patients in the placebo group received the same dosing of Omeprazole and placebo. The medication was given to patients for a total duration of 4 weeks. All patients were requested to fill out the modified GERD-HRQL questionnaire at the beginning and every two weeks for a total duration of six weeks. </p> <p> Result: Reflux, and heartburn severity score as well as disruption of personal life score significantly reduced in both groups, but it was more remarkable in the drug group (P-value = 0.0001). Dysphagia, early satiation, and nausea significantly reduced in the drug group while the placebo group showed no improvement. Our results suggest that constipation, bloating, belching, and odynophagia did not significantly improve in none of the groups. </p> <p> Conclusion: This study showed that Habb-e-Mastaki is effective against GERD. Further detailed in vitro and in vivo studies aimed at discovering the mechanism of action of this formulation and clinical studies involving a larger population will be necessary to explain and confirm the results obtained in the present study.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Review of Nephrotoxins and Their Mechanism of Nephrotoxicity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138053</link><description><![CDATA[The harmful impact of substances on renal function is known as nephrotoxicity and the substance that shows a harmful impact is called nephrotoxins. Nephrotoxins can be classified into various categories like drugs as nephrotoxins, plant-origin nephrotoxins, environmental toxins, dietary supplements as nephrotoxins, mycotoxins, pesticides and some infection-causing agents to act as nephrotoxins. Drugs like cisplatin and aminoglycosides, plants like lemongrass and licorice, pesticides like alachlor and atrazine, environmental toxins like heavy metals, halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons and aromatic halides, mycotoxins like citrinin are the examples of nephrotoxins. The various mechanisms by which they can cause nephrotoxicity are inflammation, tubular cell necrosis (drug-induced), hemolysis, vasoconstriction (plant-induced), oxidative stress, enhanced permeability, encephalopathy (environmental toxins), cysts formation, nephrolithiasis (by dietary supplements), tubular epithelial degeneration, vascular congestion (pesticides induced) endothelial cell damage, hypertrophy of tubular cell, increased vascular permeability (infection agents induced), etc. The abstract provides an overview of the basic groups of nephrotoxins as well as specific examples and their individual modes of action. It also emphasises the great diversity of substances and mechanisms that can contribute to nephrotoxicity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Synbiotic in Gut Microbiota and Gut
Permeability in Children Affected by Air Pollution]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138204</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Air pollution has been linked with gut microbiota dysbiosis. Ingested environmental pollutants may alter gut microbiota compositions by changing the environment of the gut. Gut microbiota dysbiosis has been observed in children with asthma, linking the possible role of gut microbiota with systemic immune response and asthma. </p> <p> Methods: This paper aims to identify current science on how prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics can improve gut microbiota dysbiosis. </p> <p> Results: We reviewed the existing literature related to the role of pre-, pro-, and synbiotics in child health, and the evidence mapping method was chosen as the rapid review to identify gaps in knowledge and future research needs. </p> <p> Conclusion: In conclusion, the current evidence on the role of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics on child health, while limited, showed promising results on the allergy and immunology pathway, including infection prevention for the gastrointestinal and respiratory tract.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Improved Transdermal Delivery of Anti-hypertensive Drug Loaded
Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: Statistical Design, Optimization, Depiction
and Pharmacokinetic Assessment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136344</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The vasoselective calcium-channel blocker lercanidipine hydrochloride (LCH) is poorly absorbed orally (only 10% bioavailability) owing to its low solubility and hepatic metabolism. Because of the LCH's poor solubility and permeability, bioavailability is low and very variable, stable aqueous liquid formulations are challenging to create, and a uniform distribution of the medication is almost impossible to produce. </p> <p> Objectives: The purpose of this research was to see whether an approach involving the development of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) might be used to create an effective, innovative oral formulation of LCH. The efficacy of several synthetic and natural liquid lipids was compared using a hot homogenization-ultrasonication strategy. </p> <p> Methods: Following initial improvements with hot homogenization and ultrasonication, the LCHloaded NLCs formulation was fine-tuned by Box-Behnken statistical analysis. The optimal LCHNLCs composition includes the lipid phase (2-4% w/v) of stearic acid and oleic acid, the surfactants poloxamer 188 (1%) and Tween 80(1%), and other ingredients. </p> <p> Results: The optimized NLCs formulation was found to have mean vesicle sizes of 128.72 ± 1.59 nm, polydispersity indices of 0.169 ± 0.06, zeta potentials of -36.81 ± 0.42 mV, and entrapment efficiencies of 79.84 ± 0.11%. The optimized NLCs formulation released much more LCH (88.74 ± 4.62) than the LCH-suspension (36.84 ± 0.37%) <i>in in-vitro</i> drug release experiments lasting up to 24 hours. Ex vivo studies on the ability of LCH-NLCs to pass through the gut showed that drug permeation was much better than it was with plain LCH-solution. The <i>in vivo</i> pharmacodynamic analysis demonstrated that, compared to conventional LCH-suspension, NLCs released LCH more slowly and steadily over a longer time period. </p> <p> Conclusion: These findings provide additional evidence that NLCs have great promise as a drug delivery technology for the treatment of hypertension, just as they show promise as a controlled release formulation for the treatment of LCH.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Discerning the Multi-dimensional Role of <i>Salicin</i>: Bioactive Glycoside
Beyond Analgesic: Different Perspectives]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136239</link><description><![CDATA[Salicin is a glycoside that can be found in several Salix and Populus species. Salicin is also connected to the glycoside populin, commonly known as benzoyl Salicin, in the Salicaceae tree barks. D-glucose is a component of the alcoholic glycoside Salicin (C<sub>13</sub>H<sub>18</sub>O<sub>7</sub>). The willow tree, as well as other trees like poplar and aspen, contains the natural chemical Salicin, which is a member of the salicylate family. Salicin is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic used in conventional medicine, and it served as the inspiration for the creation of aspirin. This molecule may have important human pharmacological actions that need to be considered in determining the efficacy and safety of willow herbal medicines. The extracts obtained from the bark of the tree, belonging to the Saliceae family in different solvents have been known for possessing many important medicinal values by potent pharmacological actions. The current effort deals with exquisite detailed aspects and concerns related to Salicin, which will be fruitful for the futuristic approaches to Salicin.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Inclusive Exploration of Harmonizing and Alternative Treatments for
Hypothyroidism]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136364</link><description><![CDATA[A clinical syndrome known as hypothyroidism occurs due to a shortage of thyroid hormone as a result of decreased production, abnormal distribution, or no action of thyroid hormones. The most typical clinical symptoms included are dry skin, hair loss, weight gain, painful-prolonged periods, infertility, balance problems, slow speech, bradycardia, hypothermia, fatigue, anxiety & depression, joint pain, and indigestion. Basically, age, gender, the severity of the ailment, and a few other factors affect the various signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. The limitations of allopathic modalities necessitate the investigation of alternative treatment options. Future healthcare initiatives for the poor world will increasingly depend on CAM approaches to these concerns because lifestyle, diet, obesity, lack of exercise, and stress are significant contributing factors to the development of hypothyroidism. This review's objective is to provide information on herbs as well as complementary and alternative medications which are grouped into five major domains: Biologically Based therapies, Manipulative body-based therapies, Mind body-based therapies, and the whole Medical system. These have traditionally been used to treat thyroid dysfunction. The distribution of diseases in emerging nations is altering as a result of globalization. Hence the existing and potential roles of CAM techniques in the general practice of medicine are illustrated in these approaches. Scientists are being compelled to consider traditional herbal medical treatments and CAM therapy in order to combat adverse medication occurrences, high treatment costs, and compliance problems thus described in this review paper.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neuronatin Promotes the Progression of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer by
Activating the NF-&#954;B Signaling]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138189</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background and Objectives: Understanding the regulatory mechanisms involving neuronatin (<i>NNAT</i>) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an ongoing challenge. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of <i>NNAT</i> knockdown on NSCLC by employing both in vitro and in vivo approaches. </p> <p> Methods: To investigate the role of <i>NNAT</i>, its expression was silenced in NSCLC cell lines A549 and H226. Subsequently, various parameters, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis, were assessed. Additionally, cell-derived xenograft models were established to evaluate the effect of <i>NNAT</i> knockdown on tumor growth. The expression of key molecules, including cyclin D1, B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), p65, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2, and nerve growth factor (NGF) were examined both <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. Nerve fiber density within tumor tissues was analyzed using silver staining. </p> <p> Results: Upon <i>NNAT</i> knockdown, a remarkable reduction in NSCLC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration was observed, accompanied by elevated levels of apoptosis. Furthermore, the expression of cyclin D1, Bcl-2, MMP2, and phosphorylated p65 (p-p65) showed significant downregulation. <i>In vivo</i>, <i>NNAT</i> knockdown led to substantial inhibition of tumor growth and a concurrent decrease in cyclinD1, Bcl-2, MMP2, and p-p65 expression within tumor tissues. Importantly, <i>NNAT</i> knockdown also led to a decrease in nerve fiber density and downregulation of NGF expression within the xenograft tumor tissues. </p> <p> Conclusion: Collectively, these findings suggest that neuronatin plays a pivotal role in driving NSCLC progression, potentially through the activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B signaling cascade. Additionally, neuronatin may contribute to the modulation of tumor microenvironment innervation in NSCLC. Targeting neuronatin inhibition emerges as a promising strategy for potential anti-NSCLC therapeutic intervention.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases as Two Sides of Chronic Inflammation
and the Method of Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138112</link><description><![CDATA[Chronic inflammation is associated with a prolonged increase in various inflammatory factors. According to clinical data, it can be linked with both cancer and autoimmune diseases in the same patients. This raises the critical question of how chronic inflammation relates to seemingly opposing diseases - tumors, in which there is immunosuppression, and autoimmune diseases, in which there is over-activation of the immune system. In this review, we consider chronic inflammation as a prerequisite for both immune suppression and an increased likelihood of autoimmune damage. We also discuss potential disease-modifying therapies targeting chronic inflammation, which can be helpful for both cancer and autoimmunity. On the one hand, pro-inflammatory factors persisting in the areas of chronic inflammation stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory factors due to a negative feedback loop, eliciting immune suppression. On the other hand, chronic inflammation can bring the baseline immunity closer to the threshold level required for triggering an autoimmune response using the bystander activation of immune cells. Focusing on the role of chronic inflammation in cancer and autoimmune diseases may open prospects for more intensive drug discovery for chronic inflammation.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Non-Canonical Targets of MicroRNAs: Role in Transcriptional Regulation,
Disease Pathogenesis and Potential for Therapeutic Targets]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137623</link><description><![CDATA[MicroRNAs are a class of regulatory, non-coding small ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules found in eukaryotes. Dysregulated expression of microRNAs can lead to downregulation or upregulation of their target gene. In general, microRNAs bind with the Argonaute protein and its interacting partners to form a silencing complex. This silencing complex binds with fully or partial complementary sequences in the 3’-UTR of their cognate target mRNAs and leads to degradation of the transcripts or translational inhibition, respectively. However, recent developments point towards the ability of these microRNAs to bind to the promoters, enhancers or coding sequences, leading to upregulation of their target genes. This review briefly summarizes the various non-canonical binding sites of microRNAs and their regulatory roles in various diseased conditions.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Quassinoids from <i>Eurycoma longifolia</i> as Potential Dihydrofolate
Reductase Inhibitors: A Computational Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138868</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Quassinoids are degraded triterpene compounds that can be obtained from various species of the Simaroubaceae plant family, including Eurycoma longifolia. Quassinoids are the major compounds in <i>E. longifolia</i>, and they are known to have various medicinal potentials, such as anticancer and antimalarial properties. Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) was reported to be one of the important targets for certain anticancer and antimalarial drugs. Twelve quassinoids from <i>E. longifolia</i> were identified to have anticancer effects based on their IC50 values. This study aimed to evaluate the interactions of these twelve quassinoids with DHFR via Autodock 4.2 software and Biovia Discovery Studio Visualiser. </p> <p> Methods: Twelve quassinoids from <i>E. longifolia</i> and their interactions with DHFR were evaluated via Autodock 4.2 software and Biovia Discovery Studio Visualiser. Their drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic properties were also assessed using the ADMETlab 2.0 program. </p> <p> Results: The molecular docking results showed that eleven quassinoids showed better docking scores than methotrexate, in which the binding energy (BE) of these quassinoids ranged from - 7.87 to -9.58 kcal/mol. Their inhibition constant (Ki) ranged from 0.095 to 1.71 μM. At the same time, the BE and Ki values for methotrexate were -7.80 kcal/mol and 1.64 μM, respectively. </p> <p> Conclusion: From the analysis, 6-dehydrolongilactone and eurycomalide B are among the twelve compounds that showed great potential as hit-to-lead compounds based on the docking score on DHFR, drug-likeness, and ADMET properties. These results suggest a great potential to pursue validation studies <i>via in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> models.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Design Formulation of Nanospanlastic Novel Carriers as a Promising
Approach to Enhanced Bioavailability in Intranasal Drug Delivery for
Sinusitis: Statistical Optimization and <i>In vitro</i> and <i>In vivo</i> Characterization]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137580</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Most new biologically active chemicals require better water solubility and slower dissolution rates. Cefdinir (CFD) has a very low bioavailability in its crystalline form and is poorly soluble in water. </p> <p> Objective: By preparing cefdinir's spanlastic nanovesicles (SNVs) using the ethanol injection method, the current study has attempted to enhance the drug's solubility and bioavailability using a statistical design approach. </p> <p> Methods: Independent variables, including the nonionic surfactant concentration, edge activator (EA), sonication time, SNVs entrapment efficiency, particle size, zeta potential, PDI, and in vitro release, have been evaluated. The best CFD-SNVs were positioned within <i>in situ</i> gel with mucoadhesive properties made of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and deacetylated gellan gum. By contrasting intranasal injection of the produced gel with an IV solution, animal models have been used to investigate CFD's systemic and cerebral dynamics. </p> <p> Results: Statistical analysis has suggested an ideal SNVs formulation with nonionic surfactant (65 mg), EA (15 mg), and sonication (3 min). The sol-gel temperature for forming the mucoadhesive <i>in situ</i> gel containing SNVs has been found to be 34.03°C, and 18.36 minutes has been the extended mucociliary transit time. Following intranasal injection, compared to SNV dispersion, the gelling system has exhibited higher brain bioavailability (2251.9 ± 75 vs. 5281.6 ± 51%, respectively). The gel has also demonstrated effective drug targeting of the brain with higher direct transport percentage indices. </p> <p> Conclusion: Mucoadhesive <i>in situ</i> gel with CFD-loaded SNVs can be administered via the intranasal route. To enhance bioavailability in the brain and drug targeting from the nose to the brain, nasal <i>in situ</i> gel loaded with CFD-SNVs could be a new carrier to be employed in sinusitis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Type 1 Diabetes Treatment:
Current Advances and Future Opportunity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135081</link><description><![CDATA[Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is characterized by hyperglycemia, and caused by a lack of insulin secretion. At present there is no cure for T1D and patients are dependent on exogenous insulin for lifelong, which seriously affects their lives. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be differentiated to β cell-like cells to rescue the secretion of insulin and reconstruct immunotolerance to preserve the function of islet β cells. Due to the higher proportion of children and adolescents in T1D patients, the efficacy and safety issue of the application of MSC’s transplant in T1D was primarily demonstrated and identified by human clinical trials in this review. Then we clarified the mechanism of MSCs to relieve the symptom of T1D and found out that UC-MSCs have no obvious advantage over the other types of MSCs, the autologous MSCs from BM or menstrual blood with less expanded ex vivo could be the better choice for clinical application to treat with T1D through documentary analysis. Finally, we summarized the advances of MSCs with different interventions such as genetic engineering in the treatment of T1D, and demonstrated the advantages and shortage of MSCs intervened by different treatments in the transplantation, which may enhance the clinical efficacy and overcome the shortcomings in the application of MSCs to T1D in future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Strategies for Promoting Positive Childbirth Experiences: Delphi
Approach]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135667</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The experiences that women gain during childbirth remain with them throughout life. This study aimed to provide strategies to promote positive childbirth experiences. </p> <p> Method: This Delphi study was conducted in three rounds from September to November 2019. A purposively selected 17 national experts, including obstetricians, reproductive health professionals, and midwives, participated in this study. </p> <p> Results: Most of the 52 initial strategies in the first round (50 strategies) were approved with a few corrections in the first and second rounds, and 23 strategies were presented in the third-round questionnaire; most panelists agreed upon them. Finally, they approved 73 strategies with five categories: promoting professional support, enhancing control skills, encouraging empowerment, promoting spouse and other important support, and improving childbirth preparation. </p> <p> Conclusion: The Delphi approach allows for developing a consensus that will serve as a template for education, practice, and future research in maternity care units. Hence, multidimensional approaches are required to promote positive childbirth experiences that can potentially improve mothers’ well-being outcomes.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Essential Fatty Acids along the Women’s Life Cycle and Promotion of a
Well-balanced Metabolism]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135152</link><description><![CDATA[Linoleic acid (&#969;-6 LA) and &#945;-linolenic acid (&#969;-3 ALA) are essential fatty acids (EFA) for human beings. They must be consumed through diet and then extensively metabolized, a process that plays a fundamental role in health and eventually in disease prevention. Given the numerous changes depending on age and sex, EFA metabolic adaptations require further investigations along the women’s life cycle, from onset to decline of the reproductive age. Thus, this review explains women’s life cycle stages and their involvement in diet intake, digestion and absorption, the role of microbiota, metabolism, bioavailability, and EFA fate and major metabolites. This knowledge is crucial to promoting lipid homeostasis according to female physiology through well- directed health strategies. Concerning this, the promotion of breastfeeding, nutrition, and physical activity is cardinal to counteract ALA deficiency, LA/ALA imbalance, and the release of unhealthy derivatives. These perturbations arise after menopause that compromise both lipogenic and lipolytic pathways. The close interplay of diet, age, female organism, and microbiota also plays a central role in regulating lipid metabolism. Consequently, future studies are encouraged to propose efficient interventions for each stage of women's cycle. In this sense, plant-derived foods and products are promising to be included in women’s nutrition to improve EFA metabolism.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Complex Condition; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Review of
its Recent Advanced Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136054</link><description><![CDATA[Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting women worldwide. It refers to a condition that often has ‘poly’ liquid containing sacks around ovaries. It affects reproductive-aged females, giving rise to menstrual and related reproductive issues. PCOS is marked by hormonal imbalance, often resulting in hyperandrogenism. Women with PCOS might experience abnormal insulin activity and complications such as acne, mood swings, hirsutism, obesity, and infertility. The disease is linked with severe clinical ailments such as type 2 diabetes (T2DM), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and cancer. A faulty lifestyle, neuroendocrine factors, genetic causes, and androgen exposures often cause PCOS. The approach of society towards physiological problems such as PCOS in women is that it must be under the veil that is the ultimate barrier to the early diagnosis of PCOS. Thus, this review summarizes the causes, symptoms, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and possible treatment (medical, herbal, and lifestyle improvement, acupuncture, and bariatric surgery) related to PCOS.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prospective Approaches of Herbal Novel Delivery System with Special
Reference to the Herbal Nanosciences]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136150</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Medicinal and culinary uses of plants date back centuries. Projects on a global scale are conducting laboratory research to identify plants with therapeutic properties, with the ultimate goal of developing such compounds into medicines with acceptable drug delivery mechanisms and bringing them to market. Non-synthetic medications derived from plant or herbal sources have attracted a lot of interest because of their high tolerability and low likelihood of adverse medication reactions. All diseases, the theory goes, can be cured by something found in nature. Medicines can be taken in a wide variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, semi-liquid extracts, tinctures, decoctions, medicinal teas, solutions, and more. Longer release, patient adherence, and other objectives necessitate adjustments to herbal medications. Researchers into novel drug delivery systems had hitherto overlooked herbal remedies due to a lack of scientific validation and the challenges inherent in processing, standardizing, extracting, and identifying them. Transdisciplinary research and cuttingedge isolation, purification, and identification techniques have led to the development of novel herbal compositions. Bioactive plant extracts and phytoconstituents are used in a wide variety of Nano- Emulsions, microspheres, transferosomes, implants, and ethosomes. Compared to herbal remedies, novel formulations fared better. Among these advantages are increased solubility, bioavailability, toxicity, pharmacological activity, stability, delivery duration, and resistance to physical and chemical degradation. As a result, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of herbal medications can be enhanced by the use of novel drug delivery systems, making them safer and more effective. </p> <p> This article aims to provide a concise description of the many new drug delivery techniques that have been created for the administration of herbal medications. The ultimate goal is to increase the efficacy of therapies and to learn more about their significance and worldwide appeal.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Current Advances and Applications of Diagnostic Microfluidic Chip: A
Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138333</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: As a developed technology, microfluidics now offers a great toolkit for handling and manipulating suspended samples, fluid samples, and particles. A regular chip is different from a microfluidic chip. A microfluidic chip is made of a series of grooves or microchannels carved on various materials. This arrangement of microchannels contained within the microfluidic chip is connected to the outside by inputs and outputs passing through the chip. </p> <p> Objectives: This review includes the current progress in the field of microfluidic chips, their advantages and their biomedical applications in diagnosis. </p> <p> Methods: The various manuscripts were collected in the field of microfluidic chip that have biomedical applications from the different sources like Pubmed,Science direct and Google Scholar, out of which some were relevant and considered for the present manuscript. </p> <p> Results: Microfluidic channels inside the chip allow for the processing of the fluid, such as blending and physicochemical reactions. Aside from its practical, technological, and physical benefits, microscale fluidic circuits also improve researchers' capacity to do more accurate quantitative measurements while researching biological systems. Microfluidic chips, a developing type of biochip, were primarily focused on miniaturising analytical procedures, especially to enhance analyte separation. Since then, the procedures for device construction and operation have gotten much simpler. </p> <p> Conclusion: For bioanalytical operations, microfluidic technology has many advantages. As originally intended, a micro total analysis system might be built using microfluidic devices to integrate various functional modules (or operational units) onto a single platform. More researchers were able to design, produce, and use microfluidic devices because of increased accessibility, which quickly demonstrated the probability of wide-ranging applicability in all branches of biology.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Critical Assessment of Remdesivir]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135774</link><description><![CDATA[The COVID-19 pandemic that originated in Wuhan city, China, has affected every village in India. This has killed millions of people. This disease involves symptomatic and asymptomatic mutations. The purpose of this review was to assess the effectiveness of remdesivir particularly against SAR-CoV-2 (<i>Coronaviridae</i> family). The relevant works have been studied with respect to the drug's chemistry, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical data, and side effects. Remdesivir has been used in many cases of coronavirus-infected patients because it has been proven to possess beneficial effects; however, significant adverse effects have also been reported. Remdesivir has been reported to help in lowering the disease's high fatality rate. However, the WHO has warned against using the medicine because there is no clinical data to support its therapeutic efficacy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Unlocking the Potential of Drug Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive
Review of Formulation Strategies and Technologies in the Field of
Pharmaceutics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136242</link><description><![CDATA[<p>The creation of innovative drug delivery systems to enhance therapeutic effectiveness, safety, and patient compliance has resulted in considerable developments in pharmaceutics in recent years. The most recent formulation techniques and technologies are reviewed in this article to improve medication distribution and accomplish specific therapeutic goals. </p> <p> This article thoroughly summarizes the most recent formulation techniques and technologies used to enhance medication delivery and provide specific therapeutic effects. It discusses the variety of medication delivery methods, including nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, and dendrimers, and explores the application of nanotechnology and biotechnology in drug delivery. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the significance of targeted drug delivery systems and their capacity to cross biological barriers including the blood-brain barrier and tumor microenvironment. </p> <p> The review also addresses the challenges faced in developing and commercializing drug delivery systems and suggests potential solutions to overcome them. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the role of computational modeling and simulation in designing and optimizing drug delivery systems. </p> <p> Overall, this review paper offers insightful information for pharmaceutics researchers, scientists, and practitioners that will help in the creation of novel drug delivery systems that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Malnutrition: A Longstanding Challenge in India]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136591</link><description><![CDATA[According to the World Health Organization, “malnutrition is the “deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients”. Indian population has the highest rate of adolescent malnutrition. Deficiency, Illness, Small level of education, and a range of other factors contribute to India's malnutrition crisis. Undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency conditions, and overnutrition are all forms of malnutrition. A malnourished always lags in every aspect of life which will eventually affect the productivity of the country. In the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India is positioned at 111<sup>th</sup> among 125 countries, reflecting a serious level of hunger with a score of 28.7. India is grappling with a substantial population affected by anemia, malnutrition, and obesity. Other than this Indian population is also affected by several other micronutrient deficiencies. The present article provides an overview of the triple burden of malnutrition in India by applying the literature review method and the data were collected from online sources such as government survey reports, articles, and publications related to nutrition, healthcare status, healthcare indicators, nutritional indicators, and healthcare survey reports, etc. A brief introduction of the strategies followed by the Government as well as global health organisations to combat the issue is also discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Probiotics as an Adjunct Approach to the Prevention and Treatment of
Colon Cancer: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137549</link><description><![CDATA[One out of every six people in the world is suffering from cancer disease. The major causes of cancer are high consumption of tobacco, high body mass index, and alcoholic beverages with low intake of a healthy diet and limited physical activity. Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity worldwide. In the past few years, probiotics have drawn a lot of interest as potential preventive and therapeutic anticancer agents. This literature review addressed both human and animal research that has explored the association between probiotics and colon cancer. Probiotic administration has remarkable potential for the prevention and treatment of colon cancer through various mechanisms such as inhibiting the growth of cancer cells via apoptosis, improving immune activity, restoring gut microbiota, improving intestinal barrier properties, synthesizing anticarcinogenic compounds, and degrading carcinogenic compounds. Therefore, probiotics emerge as an adjunct therapy, holding the potential to significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Probiotics: Therapeutic Strategy on the Prevention and Treatment of
Inflammatory Diseases: Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Celiac
Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135595</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Recent evidence demonstrates the fundamental role of the gut microbiota in inflammatory diseases, and several mechanisms of action of probiotics in improvement of inflammatory parameters. </p> <p> Objectives: The objective of this review was to relate the consumption of probiotic bacteria and its effects on inflammatory diseases, including obesity, type II diabetes and celiac disease. </p> <p> Methods: A search was carried out in English, between the years 2011 and 2022, for research articles and clinical trials with humans and <i>in vivo</i> studies. Research showed improvement in cardiovascular risk markers, and improvement in insulin sensitivity, lipid profile and plasma atherogenic index, in obesity with the use of probiotics. In type II diabetes, decreased levels of fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin and glycemic index, and increased levels of peptide 1, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were observed. </p> <p> Results: In addition to cellular protection of the islets of Langerhans and positive alteration of TNF- &#945; and IL-1&#946; markers. Improvement in the condition of patients with celiac disease was observed, since the neutralization of the imbalance in serotonin levels was observed, reducing the expression of genes of interest and also, a decrease in cytokines. </p> <p> Conclusion: Therefore, the use of probiotics should be encouraged.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Synthesis and Biological Evaluations of Granulatamide B and its
Structural Analogues]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138452</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: While granulatamides A and B have been previously isolated, their biological activities have been only partially examined. The aim of this study was to synthesize granulatamide B (4b), a tryptamine-derivative naturally occurring in <i>Eunicella</i> coral species, using the well-known procedure of Sun and Fürstner and its 12 structural analogues by modifying the side chain, which differs in length, degree of saturation as well as number and conjugation of double bonds. <p> Methods: The prepared library of compounds underwent comprehensive assessment for their biological activities, encompassing antioxidative, antiproliferative, and antibacterial properties, in addition to <i>in vivo</i> toxicity evaluation using a Zebrafish model. Compound 4i, which consists of a retinoic acid moiety, exhibited the strongest scavenging activity against ABTS radicals (IC<sub>50</sub> = 36 ± 2 μM). In addition, 4b and some of the analogues (4a, 4c and 4i), mostly containing an unsaturated chain and conjugated double bonds, showed moderate but non-selective activity with certain IC<sub>50</sub> values in the range of 20-40 μM. <p> Results: In contrast, the analogue 4l, a derivative of alpha-linolenic acid, was the least toxic towards normal cell lines. Moreover, 4b was also highly active against Gram-positive <i>Bacillus subtilis</i> with an MIC of 125 μM. Nevertheless, both 4b and 4i, known for the best-observed effects, caused remarkable developmental abnormalities in the zebrafish model <i>Danio rerio</i>. <p> Conclusion: Since modification of the side chain did not significantly alter the change in biological activities compared to the parent compound, granulatamide B (4b), the substitution of the indole ring needs to be considered. Our group is currently carrying out new syntheses focusing on the functionalization of the indole core.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Updates on Interaction Studies and Drug Delivery of
Antimalarials with Serum Albumin Proteins]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131646</link><description><![CDATA[This review focuses on recent trends in the binding study of various antimalarial agents with serum albumins in detail. Serum albumin has a significant role in the transport of drugs and endogenous ligands. The nature and magnitude of serum albumin and drug interactions have a tremendous impact on the pharmacological behavior and toxicity of that drug. Binding of drug to serum albumin not only controls its free and active concentration, but also provides a reservoir for a long duration of action. This ultimately affects drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Such interaction determines the actual drug efficacy as the drug action can be correlated with the amount of unbound drug. With the advancement in spectroscopic techniques and simulation studies, binding studies play an increasingly important role in biophysical and biomedical science, especially in the field of drug delivery and development. This review assesses the insight we have gained so far to improve drug delivery and discovery of antimalarials on the basis of a plethora of drug-serum protein interaction studies done so far.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transcending Molecules: Paving the Way from Lab to Life in Drug
Transport Innovation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139840</link><description><![CDATA[]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chitosan-Based Nanocarriers for Pulmonary and Intranasal Drug
Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive Overview of their Applications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140018</link><description><![CDATA[The optimization of respiratory health is important, and one avenue for achieving this is through the application of both Pulmonary Drug Delivery System (PDDS) and Intranasal Delivery (IND). PDDS offers immediate delivery of medication to the respiratory system, providing advantages, such as sustained regional drug concentration, tunable drug release, extended duration of action, and enhanced patient compliance. IND, renowned for its non-invasive nature and swift onset of action, presents a promising path for advancement. Modern PDDS and IND utilize various polymers, among which chitosan (CS) stands out. CS is a biocompatible and biodegradable polysaccharide with unique physicochemical properties, making it well-suited for medical and pharmaceutical applications. The multiple positively charged amino groups present in CS facilitate its interaction with negatively charged mucous membranes, allowing CS to adsorb easily onto the mucosal surface. In addition, CS-based nanocarriers have been an important topic of research. Polymeric Nanoparticles (NPs), liposomes, dendrimers, microspheres, nanoemulsions, Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs), carbon nanotubes, and modified effective targeting systems compete as important ways of increasing pulmonary drug delivery with chitosan. This review covers the latest findings on CS-based nanocarriers and their applications.]]></description> </item></channel></rss>