Sort by

Communication
Biology and Life Sciences
Endocrinology and Metabolism

Katsunori Nonogaki,

Takao Kaji

Abstract: Tryptophan hydroxylase (Tph), the rate-limiting enzyme of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptophan; 5-HT) synthesis, exists in two isoforms, Tph1 and Tph2. Tph1 upregulates peripheral 5-HT syn-thesis and blood 5-HT levels, whereas Tph2 upregulates brain 5-HT synthesis. Here, we show that plasma and brain levels of tryptophan and its metabolites, including 5-HT, 5-hydroxy in-doleacetic acid, indolepropionic acid, indole-3-acetic acid, kynurenine, and xanthurenic acid, are decreased in young (8-week-old) Tph1-mutant mice compared with age-matched wild-type mice. In older (7-month-old) Tph1-mutants, the decreases in tryptophan and its metabolites outside the 5-HT pathway were diminished. Although single-housed Tph1 mutants displayed age-related alterations in food intake, body weight, and plasma FGF21 levels, blood glucose levels were lower in both young and older Tph1 mutants compared with age-matched wild-type mice. These findings suggest that Tph1 regulates tryptophan and its metabolites in the plasma and brain, as well as blood glucose homeostasis.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Virology

Zhaohua Wang,

Wei Dai,

Xiaohuan Yan,

Tianyi Leng,

Zhenya Su,

Zhenni Yan,

Songda Li,

Ming Li,

Songli Li

Abstract: It has been widely known that the Pseudorabies virus (PRV) presents a significant health risk to swine, inflicting considerable economic losses in breeding industry, but those basic function about this disease still keeps unknown. For further understanding its potentiality, the antiviral potential of extracts from five plants against PRV was investigated in vitro. Notably, Aconitum tanguticum and Belamcanda chinensis demonstrated significant inhibition through distinct antiviral mechanisms. Aconitum tanguticum exhibited dose-dependent antiviral activity, significantly reducing viral RNA synthesis, protein expression, and the production of infectious progeny in infected Vero cells. Its primary mechanism involves direct viral binding, leading to substantial reduction in viral titers and a 90% inhibition rate in Vero cells with a concentration of 10 mg/mL. Conversely, Belamcanda chinensis interferes with host cell processes, showing enhanced efficacy post-PRV infection. Both agents effectively protected mice by prolonging survival, alleviating clinical symptoms and histopathological damage in their major organs, and reducing viral loads in lungs and livers. These findings dig out the potential of Aconitum tanguticum and Belamcanda chinensis as therapeutic agents against PRV infections.
Article
Business, Economics and Management
Econometrics and Statistics

Malefane Harry Molibeli,

Gary van Vuuren

Abstract: This study adopts the affine term structure three-factor models outlined by \cite{dai2000specification}, aiming to analyse South African (SA) government bond yields across various maturities. The primary objective is to evaluate whether these models offer robust pricing capabilities—being both admissible and flexible—while capturing the conditional correlations and volatilities of yield factors specific to SA bond yields. For a model to be considered admissible, it must also demonstrate economic identification and maximal flexibility. We thus investigate the short-, medium-, and long-term dynamics of bond yields concurrently. Model estimation involves deriving joint conditional densities through the inversion of the Fourier transform applied to the characteristic function of the state variables. This enables the use of maximum likelihood estimation as an efficient method. We assume that the market prices of risk are proportional to the volatilities of the state variables. The analysis reveals negative correlations between factors. Among the models tested, the $A_1(3)$ model outperforms the $A_2(3)$ model in terms of fit, both in-sample and out-of-sample.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Oncology and Oncogenics

Ahmed Alwali,

Clemens Schafmayer

Abstract: Background: Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is a common and distressing complication in advanced gastrointestinal cancers, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. When conservative management fails, palliative decompression is essential to relieve symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distension. Venting gastrostomy is the most established method; however, anatomical challenges may necessitate alternative percutaneous approaches. Objective: This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of percutaneous gastrostomy techniques for palliative gastrointestinal decompression, including percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG), interdisciplinary imaging-guided percutaneous or transhepatic gastrostomy, and percutaneous transesophageal gastrostomy (PTEG). Methods: A literature review was conducted to evaluate the indications, techniques, efficacy, and complications associated with these procedures. The role of a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating radiologic, endoscopic, and palliative care expertise, was also explored. Results: PEG remains the gold standard for venting gastrostomy, achieving symptom relief in up to 92% of cases with a low complication rate. However, interdisciplinary imaging-guided percutaneous or transhepatic gastrostomy offers a viable alternative for patients with surgically altered anatomy or difficult percutaneous access. PTEG, a newer technique, has demonstrated high technical success and symptom improvement, particularly in patients with extensive peritoneal carcinomatosis or massive ascites, where transabdominal approaches are not feasible. Conclusion: Palliative percutaneous decompression provides effective symptom relief in advanced gastrointestinal cancer. The choice of technique should be individualized based on patient anatomy, clinical condition, and resource availability. Further research is needed to optimize patient selection criteria and procedural outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach remains crucial in tailoring decompression strategies to improve the quality of life in end-stage malignancies.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Neuroscience and Neurology

Yasuaki Watanabe,

Tadashi Nakagawa,

Makiko Nakagawa,

Keiko Nakayama

Abstract: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and death. Although significant progress has been made in understanding ALS, its molecular mechanisms remain complex and multifactorial. This review explores the potential convergent mechanisms underlying ALS pathogenesis, focusing on the roles of key proteins including NEK1, C21ORF2, Cyclin F, VCP, and TDP-43. Recent studies suggest that mutations in C21ORF2, lead to the stabilization of NEK1, while Cyclin F mutations activate VCP, resulting in TDP-43 aggregation. TDP-43 aggregation, a hallmark of ALS, impairs RNA processing and protein transport, both of which are essential for neuronal function. Furthermore, TDP-43 has emerged as a key player in DNA damage repair, translocating to DNA damage sites and recruiting repair proteins. Given that NEK1, VCP, and Cyclin F are also involved in DNA repair, this review examines how these proteins may intersect to disrupt DNA damage repair mechanisms, contributing to ALS progression. Impaired DNA repair and protein homeostasis are suggested to be central downstream mechanisms in ALS pathogenesis. Ultimately, understanding the interplay between these pathways could offer novel insights into ALS and provide potential therapeutic targets. This review aims to highlight the emerging connections between protein aggregation, DNA damage repair, and cellular dysfunction in ALS, fostering a deeper understanding of its molecular basis and potential avenues for intervention.
Case Report
Medicine and Pharmacology
Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health

Zeljko Zovko,

Alessandro Boscarelli,

Daniela Codrich,

Rossana Bussani,

Francesca Neri,

Jurgen Schleef

Abstract: Introduction: Lipomas are among the most encountered neoplasms in clinical practice, occurring mainly in adults between the fourth and sixth decades of life. Deep-seated lipomas in children are found in the thorax, chest wall, mediastinum, pleura, pelvis, retroperitoneum, and paratesticular area. Herein, we present a case of a three-year-old child with a giant mesenteric lipoma, along with a review of the literature on mesenteric lipomas in childhood. Case presentation: A three-year-old male toddler was referred to our hospital for severe, intermittent abdominal pain. Imaging studies at admission revealed a fat lesion occupying most of the peritoneal cavity and dislocating adjacent structures. An urgent laparotomy was performed. A giant lipoma arising from the mesentery and leading to the torsion of the mesenteric radix was confirmed and completely excised alongside an adherent small tract of jejunum. The child recovered uneventfully and is still being followed-up with no signs of recurrence. Discussion: Lipomas of the mesentery in children are very rare, and they are reported to be more common among children younger than three years of age. Mesenteric lipomas appeared to be more frequent in males than females. Even though they might be asymptomatic, voluminous lipomas can also create a lead point for intermittent torsion of the mass causing ischemia and infarction. Abdominal pain was the most frequent symptom, and the ileum was the tract of bowel more frequently involved by the tumor. Laparotomy was reported to be the preferable approach to safely remove this abdominal mass, especially in case of huge dimensions.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Lorenza Mistura,

Francisco Javier Comendador,

Laura D'Addezio,

Cinzia Le Donne,

Deborah Martone,

Raffaela Piccinelli,

Stefania Sette

Abstract: The national food consumption surveys are crucial for monitoring the nutritional status of population, defining nutrition policies, estimating dietary exposure to substances present in food, and assessing the environmental impact of the diet, among others. This study aims to compare energy and nutrient intakes of self-administered 24-hour recall to those obtained from interviewer-led 24-hour recall, using FOODCONS software in both cases. Methods: Thirty-nine adult volunteers the sample of was randomized in A and B groups: test method first vs reference method and vice versa. After 15 days the same process was repeated in the opposite way and then volunteers filled out a questionnaire to evaluate the software and the instruction materials. Results: not significantly differences between means of energy and nutrient intakes among the two methods except for α Linolenic acid and Linoleic acid; The Bland Altman analysis found a good agreement of the amount (g), drinking water, included protein and fiber intake except for two subjects (5.0%) out of the interval; good agreement was also observed for energy, carbohydrates, and fat intakes. Conclusion: The self-administered 24h recall could be a suitable alternative to face-to-face interviews for recording data on foods consumed and this would allow a higher participation rate in food consumption studies.
Concept Paper
Biology and Life Sciences
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Lynda Sedley

Abstract: Population-specific variations in folate metabolism, influenced by evolutionary pressures, challenge the universal application of standardised dietary folate recommendations. This paper examines historical folate intake, the impact of fortification, and the role of a metabolic switch in nucleotide synthesis, proposing that mandatory fortification may pose risks for populations unadapted to high folic acid exposure. Some diets, specifically the diet of Indigenous Australian’s, were historically rich in animal protein, providing sufficient natural folate. The transition to fortified foods, has led to excessive folic acid intake, potentially resulting in toxicity with epigenetic consequences. Additionally, formula-fed infants receive significantly higher folic acid levels than breastfed infants, compounded by maternal supplementation and processes foods being fortified, also raising concerns about excessive exposure. Emerging technologies, including biophysical modelling and deep learning, offer promising avenues for personalised nutrition and precision healthcare.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Muhammad Adil Malik,

Quan Zhuang

Abstract: This study examines the extensive incidence of microplastics (MPs) within freshwater and Marine ecosystems, characterizing their distribution, composition, and potential health implications for immunosuppressed populations. Utilizing an extensive dataset curated through collaboration with global stakeholders, we systematically analyzed microplastic concentrations and types in various aquatic environments, correlating findings with prevailing environmental parameters such as temperature and turbidity. Our results indicate a pronounced presence of MPs in both Fresh water and Marine Water, with distinct variations. Freshwater ecosystems predominantly exhibited microplastics originating from urban wastewater and recreational activities, demonstrating higher concentrations of fragments and fibers indicative of local anthropogenic influences. In contrast, Marine environments showcased a more diverse spectrum of microplastic morphologies, including debris from larger plastic aggregates and microbeads, facilitated by extensive oceanic dispersal mechanisms. The analysis revealed significant bioaccumulation potential of these contaminants within aquatic organisms, raising concerns regarding food chain transfer and subsequent exposure risks to humans, particularly immunocompromised individuals. Pathological assessments suggest that MPs may exacerbate pre-existing health vulnerabilities by serving as vectors for harmful substances, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals, thus posing increased risks of impaired immune responsiveness and chronic inflammatory conditions. Given these findings, our research underscores the urgency for more rigorous monitoring protocols and public health strategies aimed at mitigating microplastic pollution and protecting at-risk populations. Thus, this investigation not only contributes to the growing body of knowledge regarding microplastic dynamics in aquatic ecosystems but also emphasizes the critical necessity for a multidisciplinary approach to address the intricate relationship between environmental contaminants and human health outcomes.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Yongshang Ye,

Zhiyu Li,

Ying Zhou,

Xiujun Gao,

Dingfan Yan

Abstract: Alginate lyases are of great importance in biotechnological and industrial processes, yet research on these enzymes from Mesonia genus bacteria is still limited. In this study, a novel PL6 family alginate lyase, MhAly6, was cloned and characterized from the deep-sea bacterium Mesonia hitae R32. The enzyme, composed of 797 amino acids, contains both PL6 and GH28 catalytic domains. Phylogenetic analysis revealed its classification into the subfamily 1 of the PL6 family. MhAly6 showed optimal activity at 45°C and pH 9.0, retaining over 50% activity after 210 min of incubation at 40°C, highlighting its remarkable thermal stability. The enzyme exhibited degradation activity toward sodium alginate, poly M, and poly G, with the highest affinity for its natural substrate, sodium alginate, producing alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) with degrees of polymerization (DP) ranging from 2 to 7. Molecular docking identified conserved catalytic sites (Lys241/Arg262) and calcium-binding sites (Asn202/Glu234/Glu236), while the GH28 domain played an auxiliary role in substrate binding. Antioxidant assays revealed that MhAly6-derived AOS showed potent radical-scavenging activity, achieving 80.64% and 95.39% inhibition rates against DPPH and ABTS radicals, respectively, highlighting their potential as natural antioxidants. This work provides a promising candidate for developing efficient alginate lyases and functional AOS, while expanding the application potential of Mesonia genus bacteria.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Biology and Biotechnology

Safia Iqbal,

Dong UK Yang,

Shahnawaz Mohammad,

Md Niaj Morshed,

Md. Sarowre Hossen,

Abdus Samad,

Deok Chun Yang,

Hyocheol Bae,

Yeon Ju Kim,

Md. Rezaul Karim

Abstract: Background: Ginsenoside-CK (G-CK), a bioactive molecule found in Korean Panax ginseng Meyer. According to recent studies, CK exhibits a broad range of pharmacological actions. In this study, we investigated the G-CK's anticancer efficacy using both in-silico and in-vitro approaches. Our investigation predicted that G-CK can suppress kidney and colon cancer by suppressing gene targets such as PHLDA1, PHLDA2, and PHLDA3. Materials & Methods: We performed in-silico investigation and G-CK exhibited a strong affinity for each of the three target proteins' binding sites. We used 150 ns of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to evaluate G-CK's stability, followed by cytotoxicity assays, RT-PCR, and qRT-PCR validation. Results: Based on its stable and favorable energies, G-CK demonstrated strong binding to the targets, as demonstrated by free energy calculations and MD simulations. Similarly, G-CK reduced the PHLDA gene family's (PHLDA1, PHLDA2, and PHLDA3) mRNA expression in A498, HT-29 cells at 10 μg/mL, as well as normal cells HEK-293 and RAW 264.7, without substantial cytotoxicity. Lastly, G-CK treatments resulted in a significant decrease in PHLDA gene family expression, confirmed by RT-PCR and qRT-PCR results. Conclusion: Thus, we can conclude that G-CK suppresses the expression of PHLDA gene family gene targets, hence regulating kidney and colon cancer.
Article
Engineering
Energy and Fuel Technology

Sara Navarro Arredondo,

Jim B.W. Kok

Abstract: This paper is about the characteristics of, and a method to recognize the onset of limit cycle thermoacoustic oscillations in a gas turbine like combustor with a premixed turbu-lent methane/air flame. Information on the measured time series data of the pressure and the OH* chemiluminescence is acquired and postprocessed. This is done for a com-bustor with variation of two parameters: fuel/air equivalence ratio and combustor length. It is of prime importance to acknowledge the nonlinear dynamics nature of these instabilities. A method is studied to interpret thermoacoustic instability phenom-ena and assess quantitively the transition of the combustor, from a stable to an unstable regime. In this method, three-phase portraits are created on basis of data retrieved from the measured acoustics and flame intensity in the laboratory scale test combustor. In the path to limit cycle oscillation the random distribution in the three-phase portrait con-tracts to an attractor. The phase portraits obtained when changing operating conditions, moving from the stable to the unstable regime and back are analyzed. Subsequently the attractor dimension is determined for quantitative analysis. On basis of the trajecto-ries from the stable to unstable and back in one run, a study is done of the hysteresis dynamics in bifurcation diagrams. Finally, the onset of the instability is demonstrated to be recognized by the 0-1 criterium for chaos. The method was developed and demonstrated on a low power atmospheric methane combustor with the aim to apply it subsequently on a high-power pressurized Diesel combustor.
Article
Business, Economics and Management
Business and Management

Wan Chong Choi,

Lai Chu Lam,

Ellen Cui,

Chi In Chang,

Fan Xiao Jie

Abstract: This study explored the advantages and challenges of the dual-class share structure in initial public offerings (IPO). It used Alibaba’s 2014 IPO as a key case study. Alibaba benefited from this structure in multiple ways. It enabled long-term strategic decision-making by insulating management from short-term market pressures, preserved the company’s founder-driven culture to maintain its entrepreneurial vision, attracted patient investors aligned with its growth strategy, and protected against hostile takeovers. These advantages contributed to Alibaba’s sustained innovation and market leadership. However, challenges associated with the dual-class share structure were observed in other companies. Key concerns included excessive managerial entrenchment, which limited shareholder influence, increased agency costs due to the separation of voting rights from financial ownership, and reduced transparency in corporate governance. Additionally, controlling minority structures amplified governance risks, allowing insiders to wield significant control despite holding a minimal economic stake, leading to potential conflicts of interest. While the dual-class share structure provided strategic advantages, its risks highlighted the need for investor protection and regulatory oversight. Potential reforms, such as sunset provisions, increased transparency, and stricter board independence, could have helped balance founder control with shareholder interests. Our study contributed to the ongoing debate on corporate governance by assessing the tradeoffs between long-term strategic autonomy and investor accountability.
Article
Computer Science and Mathematics
Algebra and Number Theory

Jasmine Burns

Abstract: The Riemann Hypothesis (RH) asserts that all nontrivial zeros of the Riemann zeta function lie on the critical line ℜ(s) = 1/2 . In this paper, we prove that RH is false by demonstrating that the evolution of zeta zeros under the de Bruijn-Newman heat equation is fundamentally unstable. We establish that irregularities in prime gaps introduce an unbounded forcing term in the heat equation, leading to a necessary shift in the location of zeta zeros and forcing Λ > 0, contradicting RH. Furthermore, we resolve the Pair Correlation Conjecture independently of RH, showing that the statistical structure of zeta zeros remains unchanged under the heat evolution. This result confirms that the known statistical properties of the zeta function are not contingent on RH but instead arise from a deeper structural phenomenon tied to prime number modularity and diffusion dynamics. Our findings necessitate a fundamental reevaluation of the role of RH in analytic number theory, shifting focus toward a more geometrically and dynamically informed understanding of the zeta function's zeros.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Bernhard H.J. Juurlink

Abstract: This paper considers whether forest volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and/or their metabolites have health-promoting activities, and whether this is through ‘mindfulness’ practices and/or activation of health-promoting physiological processes. The VOCs considered are the monoterpenes D-limonene, a-pinene, D3-carene and 1,8-cineole. Clearly, some of the health benefits of forest bathing come from ‘mindfulness’ practice that promote parasympathetic activities. There is also clear evidence that the 4 monoterpenes at high enough concentrations can activate physiological processes that lead to better health outcomes, particularly with decreases in anxiety and decreases in inflammation. These processes appear to involve activation of the A2A receptor and down-regulating activation of Nuclear Factor kappa B. The question is whether the monoterpenes can do so at the concentrations encountered in a forest setting. There is some research that indicates that forest atmospheric concentrations of monoterpenes can activate physiological processes that promote health but more research is required to definitively establish this. This review ends with suggestions on how to unequivocally answer the question whether the 4 monoterpenes considered at concentrations found in a forest, or their metabolites, can activate physiological processes that promote health, in particular physiological processes that decrease anxiety and inflammatory conditions and promote better endothelial function.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
Public, Environmental and Occupational Health

Carol Nash

Abstract: Background: Burnout is a significant problem for employees—particularly concerning COVID-19 and involving healthcare workers. One way for employees to avoid work-related burnout is to experience the psychological flow investigated by Csikszentmihalyi. Yet, COVID-19 may have contributed to the unattainability of psychological flow for burnout-prone employees. The objective is to determine the COVID-19 achievability of flow by employees and, if attained, whether flow resulted in burnout avoidance during the pandemic. Method: To examine the topic range of research, a scoping review includes searches of six primary databases (CINAHL, OVID, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science), two searches of one supplementary database (Google Scholar), and one register (Cochrane COVID-19 register) of the keywords “burnout, COVID-19, employees, healthcare providers, psychological flow, Csikszentmihalyi”. Included are peer-reviewed, COVID-19-related, 2020-2025 journal publications. The exclusions are duplicates, non-COVID-19-related publications, reports lacking a research study, keywords, or relevant information. Results: In identifying 754 records, five records met the inclusion criteria. Conclusions: Psychological flow was possible during COVID-19 for various employee types, represents the opposite of burnout regarding a workplace stimulation scale, and attaining it permitted burnout avoidance, suggesting a focus on achieving flow in the workplace during pandemics would diminish the incidence of employee burnout.
Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Chemical Engineering

Qiru Yang,

Yan Jia,

Luohu Zhang,

Qiaoyi Tan,

Heyun Sun,

Jiaqi Jin,

Jingkui Qu,

Renman Ruan,

Chao Zhang

Abstract: Although bioleaching of secondary copper sulfides has been industrialized for decades, application of bioleaching to chalcopyrite is still under development due to low leaching rate. The effect of contact microbes on chalcopyrite leaching remains unclear due to the technical challenges in separating the contact (sessile micro-organisms) and the non-contact (planktonic micro-organisms) processes. Chalcopyrite bioleaching experiments were conducted using a novel device which stabilized the redox potential and distinguished between the microbial contact and non-contact effects. The contribution of the microbial “contact mechanism” in chalcopyrite leaching was quantified considering different redox potentials, compared to the “non-contact mechanism”. Based on the copper leaching kinetics and morphology of the leaching residue, it was demonstrated that the leaching rate of chalcopyrite was significantly influenced by the redox potential (850 mV > 650 mV > 750 mV). At each redox potential, the chalcopyrite leaching rate was higher with the presence of sessile microbes than without sessile microbes. Analysis of the leached chalcopyrite surface using time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) revealed the formation of polysulfide and elemental sulfur at the surface. However, the elemental sulfur content at the leach residue surface with the contact microorganisms was less than one-third of the surface elemental sulfur content in the absence of microorganisms. The sulfur-oxidizing microbes preferred sessile acidophiles at the chalcopyrite surface, thus played an important role in degrading the sulfur passivation layer. In chalcopyrite bioleaching, the “contact mechanism” was primarily explained by sulfur-oxidizing bacteria promoting chalcopyrite oxidation through the removal of sulfur intermediates, while the “non-contact mechanism” was explained by ferrous-oxidizing microbes influencing the redox potential.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Psychiatry and Mental Health

Maria Suprunowicz,

Julia Bogucka,

Natalia Szczerbińska,

Beata Konarzewska,

Napoleon Waszkiewicz

Abstract: Sensory dysregulation represents a core challenge in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting perception, behavior, and adaptive functioning. The brain's ability to reorganize, known as neuroplasticity, serves as the basic principle for therapeutic interventions targeting these deficits. Neuroanatomical mechanisms include altered connectivity in the sensory and visual cortices, limbic system and amygdala, while imbalances of neurotransmitters, in particular glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), contribute to atypical sensory processing. Traditional therapies used in sensory integration are based on the principles of neuroplasticity. Increasingly, new treatments use this knowledge, and modern therapies such as neurofeedback, transcranial stimulation, and immersive virtual environments are promising in modulating neuronal circuits. However, further research is needed to optimize interventions and confirm long-term effectiveness. This narrative review discusses the role of neuroplasticity in the etiopathogenesis of sensory integration deficits in autism spectrum disorder. The neuroanatomical and neurotransmitter basis of impaired perception of sensory stimuli is considered, and traditional and recent therapies for sensory integration are discussed.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Dermatology

Maria Eduarda Palomba,

Flávio Carneiro Hojaij,

Julia Adriana Kasmirski

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, primarily divided into melanoma and non-melanoma types, with non-melanoma being the most prevalent. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) represents 50% of primary skin cancers and is characterized by uncontrolled keratinocyte proliferation. cSCC current standard treatment is surgical resection and chemotherapy. Unfortunately these methods often lead to disfigurement, functional morbidly and compromised function. In contrast from immunotherapy emerging scenarios that have shown promising results, especially in neoadjuvant settings. Cemiplimab (Libtayo®; Regeneron, Tarrytown, New York, United States), a PD-1 monoclonal antibody, has shown efficacy in treating advanced or metastatic cSCC, and its use as a neoadjuvant therapy has been recently explored. This review aims to evaluate Cemiplimab neoadjuvant setting on cSCC treatment. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, this review analyzed studies on Cemiplimab as neoadjuvant therapy for cSCC, sourced from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Only controlled trials, cohort studies, case series, and systematic reviews were included. A total of 21 studies were examined, focusing on response rates, adverse effects, and outcomes. Results: From 341 records, 21 studies were included, and six clinical trials provided key data.The targeted data revealed that neoadjuvant Cemiplimab showed a mean pathologic response rate of 72%, with a 62% objective response rate. The most commonly found treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) included fatigue, maculopapular rash, and diarrhea, affecting 66% of patients, with few severe cases. The studies demonstrated high rates of complete pathological responses (cPR) and major pathological responses (mPR), suggesting a strong therapeutic potential. Conclusions: Neoadjuvant Cemiplimab for cSCC therapy shows high response rates, low recurrence, improved survival, and manageable side effects. Despite more research is still needed to confirm its long-term benefits and real-world settings feasibility, some case series already indicate comparable results in immunosuppressed patients. Finally, there is strong evidence to consider neoadjuvant Cemiplimab as a promising and efficient treatment
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Aquatic Science

Vinícius Paulino Pinto Menezes,

Aldeni Moreira da Silva Filho,

Aline Jeferson Costa,

Elielton Nascimento,

Ulisses Santos Pinheiro,

Renata Pinheiro Chaves,

Alexandre Lopes Andrade,

Mayron Alves Vasconcelos,

Edson Holanda Teixeira,

Alexandre Holanda Sampaio

+2 authors
Abstract: This study investigated the antibacterial activity of aqueous and organic extracts from 78 marine organisms, including seaweeds and sponges, collected from the coastal zone of Ceará, Brazil. Biological tissue extracts were obtained by maceration using distilled water and 50% acetonitrile. The extracts were tested against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacterial strains using the disk diffusion method and measuring inhibition zone diameters. Results showed that 30.7% of the organisms exhibited antibacterial activity, with greater effectiveness in organic extracts. Demonstrated remarkable bioactive potential, particularly the genus Aplysina, Amphimedon compressa, Amphimedon viridis, Mycale sp., and Pseudosuberites sp. Seaweeds showed no activity in aqueous extracts, but some organic extracts were effective against Gram-positive strains, notably Amansia multifida. Most extracts were more effective against Gram-positive bacteria, likely due to their simpler cell wall structure. These findings highlight the biotechnological potential of marine organisms from the Brazilian coast as sources of novel antibacterial molecules, contributing to the search for alternative therapies in response to the growing issue of bacterial resistance.

of 4,236

Prerpints.org logo

Preprints.org is a free preprint server supported by MDPI in Basel, Switzerland.

Subscribe

© 2025 MDPI (Basel, Switzerland) unless otherwise stated