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15 pages, 3288 KiB  
Article
Application of Ultrasound Radiomics in Differentiating Benign from Malignant Breast Nodules in Women with Post-Silicone Breast Augmentation
by Ling Hao, Yang Chen, Xuejiao Su and Buyun Ma
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010029 - 3 Jan 2025
Viewed by 267
Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic value of ultrasound radiomics in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast nodules in women who have undergone silicone breast augmentation. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted of 99 breast nodules detected by ultrasound in 93 women who had [...] Read more.
Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic value of ultrasound radiomics in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast nodules in women who have undergone silicone breast augmentation. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted of 99 breast nodules detected by ultrasound in 93 women who had undergone silicone breast augmentation. The ultrasound data were collected between 1 January 2006 and 1 September 2023. The nodules were allocated into a training set (n = 69) and a validation set (n = 30). Regions of interest (ROIs) were manually delineated using 3D Slicer software, and radiomic features were extracted and selected using Python programming. Eight machine learning algorithms were applied to build predictive models, and their performance was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, area under the ROC curve (AUC), accuracy, Brier score, and log loss. Model performance was further evaluated using ROC curves and calibration curves, while clinical utility was assessed via decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: The random forest model exhibited superior performance in differentiating benign from malignant nodules in the validation set, achieving sensitivity of 0.765, specificity of 0.838, and an AUC of 0.787 (95% CI: 0.561–0.960). The model’s accuracy, Brier score, and log loss were 0.796, 0.197, and 0.599, respectively. DCA suggested potential clinical utility of the model. Conclusion: Ultrasound radiomics demonstrates promising diagnostic accuracy in differentiating benign from malignant breast nodules in women with silicone breast prostheses. This approach has the potential to serve as an additional diagnostic tool for patients following silicone breast augmentation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Breast Cancer)
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15 pages, 943 KiB  
Review
Clinical Insight into Congenital Hypothyroidism Among Children
by Hüseyin Anıl Korkmaz
Children 2025, 12(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12010055 - 3 Jan 2025
Viewed by 308
Abstract
Molecular, genetic, and technological advances have led to increased knowledge regarding neonatal thyroid hormone metabolism disorders. Maternal and fetal hypothyroidism, which can cause psychomotor dysfunction syndromes or low IQ levels, can lead to brain damage, reduced fetal growth and incidental fetal death. The [...] Read more.
Molecular, genetic, and technological advances have led to increased knowledge regarding neonatal thyroid hormone metabolism disorders. Maternal and fetal hypothyroidism, which can cause psychomotor dysfunction syndromes or low IQ levels, can lead to brain damage, reduced fetal growth and incidental fetal death. The treatment of congenital hypothyroidism detected by screening programs performed during the neonatal period provides normalization of growth, IQ levels, and the physical, mental, and motor development of infants. Therefore, the early diagnosis and treatment of congenital hypothyroidism will prevent the development of complications. In this article, the classification and management of neonatal thyroid diseases are reviewed in light of the current scientific literature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Thyroid Disease)
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11 pages, 1112 KiB  
Article
Protolytic Equilibria of Cetirizine in the Presence of Micelle-Forming Surfactants
by Marija Popović-Nikolić, Gordana Popović, Slavica Oljačić and Katarina Nikolić
Organics 2025, 6(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/org6010002 - 2 Jan 2025
Viewed by 311
Abstract
The acid–base equilibria of cetirizine were investigated with and without the presence of differently charged micelle-forming surfactants (anionic, cationic, nonionic). The pKa values were potentiometrically determined at 25 °C and at a constant ionic strength (0.1 M NaCl). Experimental data were [...] Read more.
The acid–base equilibria of cetirizine were investigated with and without the presence of differently charged micelle-forming surfactants (anionic, cationic, nonionic). The pKa values were potentiometrically determined at 25 °C and at a constant ionic strength (0.1 M NaCl). Experimental data were analyzed by applying the computer program Hyperquad 5.2.15. Based on a shift in the ionization constants (∆pKa) in micellar solutions against the pKa values determined in “pure” water under the same conditions, the effects of micelles on the protolytic equilibria of cetirizine were estimated. Applied micelles caused a shift in the protolytic equilibria of all cetirizine ionizable centers, with the piperazine function connected to aliphatic side moiety (∆pKa1 from −0.47 to +1.42), carboxyl group (∆pKa2 from −0.92 to +2.02), and piperazine nitrogen connected to phenyl rings (∆pKa3 from −2.01 to +2.19). Anionic SDS and nonionic Brij 35 micelles caused an increase in the pKa values of the ionizable centers of cetirizine, while a decrease in the pKa values was detected under the influence of cationic CTAB and nonionic TX-100 micelles. The change in the ionization pattern by micelles at pH values with biopharmaceutical significance provides indications of possible interactions of cetirizine with biomolecules of different charge and polarity under physiological conditions. Full article
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22 pages, 762 KiB  
Article
Bayesian Estimation of the True Bovine Brucellosis Prevalence in Vaccinated and Non-Vaccinated Ecuadorian Cattle Populations, and the Sensitivity and Specificity of a Competitive and Indirect ELISA Using a New Synthetic Antigen
by Ana Dolores Garrido Haro, Margoth Yolanda Barrionuevo Samaniego, Paola Moreno-Caballeros, Alexandra Burbano-Enríquez, Verónica Alexandra Salas Torres, María Cristina Galante Mulki, Constance Wielick, Jorge Ron-Román and Claude Saegerman
Microorganisms 2025, 13(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13010069 - 2 Jan 2025
Viewed by 293
Abstract
Bovine brucellosis (bB) is a zoonosis mainly caused by the Brucella abortus species in cattle. Bovine brucellosis can present with either a range of clinical symptoms, including spontaneous abortions in the last trimester of pregnancy, retained fetal membranes, and decreased milk production, or [...] Read more.
Bovine brucellosis (bB) is a zoonosis mainly caused by the Brucella abortus species in cattle. Bovine brucellosis can present with either a range of clinical symptoms, including spontaneous abortions in the last trimester of pregnancy, retained fetal membranes, and decreased milk production, or it can be asymptomatic. In Ecuador, vaccination against bB with S19 and/or RB51 is not mandatory and is the responsibility of the farmer. As serology is a convenient method for detecting antibodies against Brucella, evaluating the diagnostic performance and discriminative ability of such tests in various epidemiological settings is required. To estimate and compare the diagnostic sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of two screening tests, a new competitive (cELISA) and an indirect ELISA based on a new synthetic antigen (iELISA), a randomized, stratified, cross-sectional, serological survey was performed on the cattle population (3299 bovine sera from 223 farms) in continental Ecuador. A Bayesian approach was used to evaluate the two tests by estimating their respective diagnostic Se and Sp, as well as the true prevalence of bB in different sub-populations (non-vaccinated, vaccinated with S19 or RB51). The Se of both tests was similar across Bayesian models, with values around 94%. In contrast, the Sp of the iELISA, ranging between 97 and 98%, was significantly higher than that of the cELISA, which was approximately 94–95%. The true prevalence of bB was 1.63% (95% CrI: 0.56–2.54) in non-vaccinated cattle, decreased to 0.97% (95% CrI: 0.005–2.54) in S19-vaccinated cattle and was 2.75% (95% CrI: 0.50–5.32) in RB51-vaccinated cattle. The results of this study suggest that, with similar Se and higher Sp, the iELISA based on an innovative synthetic antigen (which is more standardizable) should be recommended as a possible screening test for bB in Ecuador. Also, the proposed approach suggests insights into the quality of the vaccination campaign and highlights the need for refining the Ecuadorian national brucellosis control program. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology and Control Strategies for Brucellosis)
22 pages, 5069 KiB  
Article
3D Printed Ni–Cu Sodalite Catalysts for Sustainable γ-Valerolactone Production from Levulinic Acid—Effect of the Copper Content and the Method of Preparation
by Margarita Popova, Boian Mladenov, Ivan Dimitrov, Momtchil Dimitrov, Violeta Mitova, Yavor Mitrev, Daniela Kovacheva, Nikolay Velinov, Daniela Karashanova and Silviya Boycheva
Processes 2025, 13(1), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13010072 - 1 Jan 2025
Viewed by 634
Abstract
Coal fly ash zeolites with Sodalite structure were synthesized by ultrasound-assisted double stage fusion-hydrothermal synthesis. Monometallic Ni and bimetallic Ni–Cu supported catalysts with 5 wt.% Ni and different copper contents of 1.5, 2.5 and 5.0 wt.% Cu were prepared by post-synthesis incipient wetness [...] Read more.
Coal fly ash zeolites with Sodalite structure were synthesized by ultrasound-assisted double stage fusion-hydrothermal synthesis. Monometallic Ni and bimetallic Ni–Cu supported catalysts with 5 wt.% Ni and different copper contents of 1.5, 2.5 and 5.0 wt.% Cu were prepared by post-synthesis incipient wetness impregnation. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, N2 physisorption, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy and H2 temperature programmed reduction analysis. It was found that crystalline Cu0 and NixCuy intermetallic nanoparticles were formed in the reduced powder and 3D printed catalysts and that they affected the reducibility of the catalytically active nickel phase. Three-dimensionally printed 5Ni2.5Cu/Sodalite catalysts were prepared via modification with metals before and after 3D printing for comparative studies. The powder and 3D printed catalysts were studied in the lignocellulosic biomass-derived levulinic acid (LA) to γ-valerolactone (GVL). The formation of NiCu alloy, which is found on the powder and 3D printed catalysts, favors their catalytic performance in the studied reaction. In contrast with powder catalysts, the preservation of the Sodalite structure was detected for all 3D printed samples and was found to have a positive influence on the metal dispersion registered in the 3D spent catalysts. The powder 5Ni2.5Cu/Sodalite catalyst showed the highest LA conversion and high GVL yield at 150 °C reaction temperature. Three-dimensionally printed catalysts show more stable catalytic activity than powder catalysts due to the preservation of the zeolite structure and metal dispersion. Full article
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24 pages, 9132 KiB  
Article
Development of a 3D-Printed Chest Phantom with Simulation of Lung Nodules for Studying Ultra-Low-Dose Computed Tomography Protocols
by Jenna Silberstein, Steven Tran, Yin How Wong, Chai Hong Yeong and Zhonghua Sun
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010309 - 31 Dec 2024
Viewed by 592
Abstract
This study aimed to 3D print a patient-specific chest phantom simulating multiple lung nodules to optimise low-dose Computed Tomography (CT) protocols for lung cancer screening. The chest phantom, which was developed from a single patient’s chest CT images, was fabricated using a variety [...] Read more.
This study aimed to 3D print a patient-specific chest phantom simulating multiple lung nodules to optimise low-dose Computed Tomography (CT) protocols for lung cancer screening. The chest phantom, which was developed from a single patient’s chest CT images, was fabricated using a variety of materials, including polylactic acid (PLA), Glow-PLA, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyurethane resin. The phantom was scanned under different low-dose (LDCT) and ultra-low-dose CT (ULDCT) protocols by varying the kilovoltage peak (kVp) and milliampere-seconds (mAs). Subjective image quality of each scan (656 images) was evaluated by three radiologists using a five-point Likert scale, while objective image quality was assessed using signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Anatomical conformance was assessed by comparing tissue diameters of the phantom and patient scans using Bland–Altman analysis. The phantom’s lung tissue, lung nodules, and diaphragm demonstrated radiation attenuation comparable to patient tissue, as measured in Hounsfield Units (HU). However, significant variations in HU were observed for the skin, subcutaneous fat, muscle, bone, heart, lung vessels, and blood vessels compared to patient tissues, with values ranging from 93.9 HU to −196 HU (p < 0.05). Both SNR and CNR decreased as the effective dose was reduced, with a strong positive linear correlation (r = 0.927 and r = 0.931, respectively, p < 0.001, Jamovi, version 2.3.28). The median subjective image quality score from radiologists was 4, indicating good diagnostic confidence across all CT protocols (κ = −0.398, 95% CI [−0.644 to −0.152], p < 0.002, SPSS Statistics, version 30). An optimal protocol of 80 kVp and 30 mAs was identified for lung nodule detection, delivering a dose of only 0.23 mSv, which represents a 96% reduction compared to standard CT protocols. The measurement error between patient and phantom scans was −0.03 ± 0.14 cm. These findings highlight the potential for significant dose reductions in lung cancer screening programs. Further studies are recommended to improve the phantom by selecting more tissue-equivalent materials. Full article
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13 pages, 1581 KiB  
Article
Donor Identification, Genetic Diversity, Population Structure and Marker–Trait Association Analyses for Iron Toxicity Tolerance Using Rice Landraces
by Debanjana Saha, Udit Nandan Mishra, Chittaranjan Sahoo, Seema Tripathy, Uttam Kumar Behera, Susmita Das, Chandrasekhar Sahu, Shiv Datt, Manoj Kumar Rout, Tanmaya Lalitendu Mohanty, Shakti Prakash Mohanty, Saumya Ranjan Barik, Ishwar Chandra Mohanty and Sharat Kumar Pradhan
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010033 - 31 Dec 2024
Viewed by 240
Abstract
Uptake of excess iron by lowland rice plants causes iron toxicity, which is a major problem in the affected areas. This study investigated molecular diversity, genetic structure, and marker–trait associations for tolerance to iron toxicity in a panel of germplasm lines using microsatellite [...] Read more.
Uptake of excess iron by lowland rice plants causes iron toxicity, which is a major problem in the affected areas. This study investigated molecular diversity, genetic structure, and marker–trait associations for tolerance to iron toxicity in a panel of germplasm lines using microsatellite markers. The studied population showed a moderate to high degree of genetic diversity, as revealed by the estimated molecular diversity parameters and principal component, cluster and box plot analyses. The landraces Mahipal, Dhusura, Dhabalabhuta, Champa, Sunapani and Kusuma were identified as suitable for cultivation in the areas affected by high iron levels. The landraces Dhusura, Kusuma, Kendrajhali, Ranisaheba, Panjabaniswarna, Mahipal, Dhinkisiali, Champa, Kalamara and Ratanmali, which showed low scores for tolerance, were considered good donors for iron toxicity tolerance improvement programs. Utilizing STRUCTURE software, a total of four genetic structure groups were detected in the panel germplasm of lines. These structural subgroups exhibited good correlations among their members for iron toxicity tolerance and other yield-related traits. Marker–trait association analysis validated the reported iron toxicity tolerance QTLs qFeTox 4.2 and qFeTox 4.3, which are useful for marker-assisted improvement. A new QTL, qFeTox 7.1, located on chromosome 7, was detected as controlling iron toxicity tolerance in rice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity and Plant Breeding)
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28 pages, 7288 KiB  
Article
Geometric Feature Characterization of Apple Trees from 3D LiDAR Point Cloud Data
by Md Rejaul Karim, Shahriar Ahmed, Md Nasim Reza, Kyu-Ho Lee, Joonjea Sung and Sun-Ok Chung
J. Imaging 2025, 11(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/jimaging11010005 - 31 Dec 2024
Viewed by 441
Abstract
The geometric feature characterization of fruit trees plays a role in effective management in orchards. LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology for object detection enables the rapid and precise evaluation of geometric features. This study aimed to quantify the height, canopy volume, tree [...] Read more.
The geometric feature characterization of fruit trees plays a role in effective management in orchards. LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology for object detection enables the rapid and precise evaluation of geometric features. This study aimed to quantify the height, canopy volume, tree spacing, and row spacing in an apple orchard using a three-dimensional (3D) LiDAR sensor. A LiDAR sensor was used to collect 3D point cloud data from the apple orchard. Six samples of apple trees, representing a variety of shapes and sizes, were selected for data collection and validation. Commercial software and the python programming language were utilized to process the collected data. The data processing steps involved data conversion, radius outlier removal, voxel grid downsampling, denoising through filtering and erroneous points, segmentation of the region of interest (ROI), clustering using the density-based spatial clustering (DBSCAN) algorithm, data transformation, and the removal of ground points. Accuracy was assessed by comparing the estimated outputs from the point cloud with the corresponding measured values. The sensor-estimated and measured tree heights were 3.05 ± 0.34 m and 3.13 ± 0.33 m, respectively, with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.08 m, a root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.09 m, a linear coefficient of determination (r2) of 0.98, a confidence interval (CI) of −0.14 to −0.02 m, and a high concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) of 0.96, indicating strong agreement and high accuracy. The sensor-estimated and measured canopy volumes were 13.76 ± 2.46 m3 and 14.09 ± 2.10 m3, respectively, with an MAE of 0.57 m3, an RMSE of 0.61 m3, an r2 value of 0.97, and a CI of −0.92 to 0.26, demonstrating high precision. For tree and row spacing, the sensor-estimated distances and measured distances were 3.04 ± 0.17 and 3.18 ± 0.24 m, and 3.35 ± 0.08 and 3.40 ± 0.05 m, respectively, with RMSE and r2 values of 0.12 m and 0.92 for tree spacing, and 0.07 m and 0.94 for row spacing, respectively. The MAE and CI values were 0.09 m, 0.05 m, and −0.18 for tree spacing and 0.01, −0.1, and 0.002 for row spacing, respectively. Although minor differences were observed, the sensor estimates were efficient, though specific measurements require further refinement. The results are based on a limited dataset of six measured values, providing initial insights into geometric feature characterization performance. However, a larger dataset would offer a more reliable accuracy assessment. The small sample size (six apple trees) limits the generalizability of the findings and necessitates caution in interpreting the results. Future studies should incorporate a broader and more diverse dataset to validate and refine the characterization, enhancing management practices in apple orchards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Challenges and Innovations in 3D Point Cloud Processing)
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13 pages, 1785 KiB  
Article
Detection of Emerald Ash Borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) in Ash (Fraxinus spp.) Crowns in the Southern United States: Comparing Panel Trap Color, Placement, and Lure
by Benjamin Walters, Mohammad Bataineh, Stephen Clarke, Wood Johnson and William Bruce
Forests 2025, 16(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16010054 - 31 Dec 2024
Viewed by 351
Abstract
The emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, is an invasive forest pest that is causing a rapid decline in ash (Fraxinus spp.). As EABs spread across North America to 35 U.S. states and 5 Canadian provinces, detection of the pest has [...] Read more.
The emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, is an invasive forest pest that is causing a rapid decline in ash (Fraxinus spp.). As EABs spread across North America to 35 U.S. states and 5 Canadian provinces, detection of the pest has proven difficult, especially at low population density sites. Panel traps have been commonly used in detection and monitoring of EAB populations. Over two sampling periods from 2016 through 2019, adult catches and detection rates were compared among four combinations of panel trap color, lure, and crown placement in southern Arkansas, northern Louisiana, and eastern Texas. The four combinations were as follows: (1) dark purple baited with (Z)-3-hexenol alone in the mid–upper crown; (2) light green with (Z)-3-hexenol plus (3Z)-lactone in the mid–upper crown; (3) dark purple with (Z)-3-hexenol in the lower crown; and (4) dark purple with (Z)-3-hexenol plus (3Z)-lactone in the lower crown. Mid–upper tree crown placement, ~13 m, of panel traps were more effective for EAB detection and adult capture, especially of males. The sex pheromone (3Z)-lactone deterred females but attracted males, while (Z)-3-hexenol attracted females. The green panel trap with both lures and mid–upper crown placement did not drastically increase male catches, contrary to previous studies at low EAB densities. The use of (3Z)-lactone on dark purple traps at low crown placements, such as those used in the National Survey Program, is not recommended for EAB detection due to its repellent effect on EAB females. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Health)
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17 pages, 5353 KiB  
Article
A Compact Instrument for Temperature-Programming-Assisted Capillary–Nanoliquid Chromatography
by Lincon Coutinho Marins, Alessandra Maffei Monteiro, Vivane Lopes Leal, Deyber Arley Vargas Medina, Edwin Martin Cardenas and Fernando Mauro Lanças
Separations 2025, 12(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12010005 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 292
Abstract
The miniaturization of liquid chromatography (LC) columns to capillary and nanoscales allows temperature programming to be an effective alternative to solvent gradients for modulating eluotropic strength. This approach simplifies instrument design and operation, as a single pump can suffice to achieve efficient separations. [...] Read more.
The miniaturization of liquid chromatography (LC) columns to capillary and nanoscales allows temperature programming to be an effective alternative to solvent gradients for modulating eluotropic strength. This approach simplifies instrument design and operation, as a single pump can suffice to achieve efficient separations. This study presents the development and application of a compact, lab-built high-pressure system for temperature-programmed capillary and nanoLC separations. The instrument includes a high-pressure capillary–nanoflow syringe pump, a time-based nanoliter injection system, a programmable capillary column oven for controlled temperature gradients, and a UV-Vis detection system with a custom nanoliter-scale detection cell. Each system component was designed and built in-house, with rigorous calibration to ensure accuracy and operational reliability. Experimental data confirm the system’s capability to deliver precise, reproducible temperature, and flow rates. Functionality was validated through temperature-programmed separations on packed and open tubular capillary columns. The results demonstrated that the developed instrument offers enhanced separation efficiency and reduced analysis time compared to isothermal methods, underscoring its potential for advanced applications in miniaturized liquid chromatography. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Separation Techniques on a Miniaturized Scale)
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20 pages, 971 KiB  
Article
Relationship Between Vitamin D Levels with In-Hospital Complications and Morphofunctional Recovery in a Cohort of Patients After Severe COVID-19 Across Different Obesity Phenotypes
by Víctor J. Simón-Frapolli, Ángel López-Montalbán, Isabel M. Vegas-Aguilar, Marta Generoso-Piñar, Rocío Fernández-Jiménez, Isabel M. Cornejo-Pareja, Ana M. Sánchez-García, Pilar Martínez-López, Pilar Nuevo-Ortega, Carmen Reina-Artacho, María A. Estecha-Foncea, Adela M. Gómez-González, María Belén González-Jiménez, Elma Avanesi-Molina, Francisco J. Tinahones-Madueño and José Manuel García-Almeida
Nutrients 2025, 17(1), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17010110 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 422
Abstract
Background and objectives: the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity of understanding the factors influencing susceptibility and disease severity, as well as a better recovery of functional status, especially in postcritical patients. evidence regarding the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in reducing the severity [...] Read more.
Background and objectives: the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity of understanding the factors influencing susceptibility and disease severity, as well as a better recovery of functional status, especially in postcritical patients. evidence regarding the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in reducing the severity of COVID-19 is still insufficient due to the lack of primary robust trial-based data and heterogeneous study designs. the principal aims of our study were to determine the impact of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency on complications during intensive care unit (icu) stay, as well as its role in muscle mass and strength improvement as well as morphofunctional recovery during a multispecialty 6-month follow-up program based on adapted nutritional support and specific physical rehabilitation. as a secondary objective, we compared the association mentioned above between patients with sarcopenic obesity and non- sarcopenic obesity. methods: this prospective observational study included 94 outpatients postcritical COVID-19. two weeks after hospital discharge, patients were divided into sufficient (≥30 ng/mL), insufficient (20.01–29.99 ng/mL), or deficient (≤20 ng/mL) vitamin D levels. the differences in in-hospital complications and morphofunctional parameters including phase angle (PhA), body cell mass (BCM), handgrip strength (HGS), timed get-up-and-go (UAG), 6 min walk test (6MWT), and proinflammatory biochemical variables were analyzed. Incremental (Δ) changes in these parameters were also analyzed at the end of follow-up according to vitamin D levels and the presence vs. absence of sarcopenic obesity. A multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to detect possible confounding factors in the impact analysis of vitamin D changes on functional recovery in patients with obesity. Results: A total of 36.2% of patients exhibited vitamin D deficiency, 29.8% vitamin D insufficiency, and only 32.9% showed sufficient levels at hospital discharge. A total of 46.8% of patients had obesity, and 36.1% had sarcopenic obesity. Vitamin D deficiency was associated with longer hospital stays (p = 0.04), longer ICU stays (p = 0.04), more days of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) (p = 0.04), lower skeletal muscle mass/weight (SMM/w) (p = 0.04) and skeletal muscle index (SMI) (p = 0.047), higher fat mass percentage (FM%) (p = 0.04), C-reactive-protein (CRP) (p = 0.04), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (p = 0.03), and better performance in R-HGS (p = 0.04), UAG (p = 0.03), and 6MWT (p = 0.034) when compared with those with normal vitamin D levels. At six months, Δvitamin D significantly correlated with ΔHbA1c (p = 0.002) and CRP (p = 0.049). Patients with normal vitamin D values showed better recovery of ΔSMI (p = 0.046), ΔSMM/w (p = 0.04), ΔR-HGS (p = 0.04), and ΔUAG (p = 0.04) compared to those with abnormal vitamin D levels, and these improvements in ΔR-HGS and ΔUAG were greater in the subgroup of sarcopenic obesity compared than in nonsarcopenic obesity (p = 0.04 and p = 0.04, respectively). Multivariate regression analysis detected that these results were also attributable to a longer hospital stay and lower ΔCRP in the subgroup of patients with sarcopenic obesity. Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency was associated with longer hospital stays, longer VMI requirement, worse muscle health, and a higher degree of systemic inflammation. Furthermore, normal vitamin D levels at the end of the follow-up were associated with better morphofunctional recovery in postcritical COVID-19, particularly in patients with sarcopenic obesity partly due to a higher degree of inflammation as a result of a longer hospital stay. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin D in Relation to Diet-Related Diseases)
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18 pages, 1010 KiB  
Review
Asian Perspective on Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Elimination
by Apichat Kaewdech, Phunchai Charatcharoenwitthaya and Teerha Piratvisuth
Viruses 2025, 17(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17010034 - 29 Dec 2024
Viewed by 674
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections remain significant public health challenges in Asia, affecting millions and contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of these infections varies across the region, with factors such as vaccination coverage, healthcare infrastructure, [...] Read more.
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections remain significant public health challenges in Asia, affecting millions and contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of these infections varies across the region, with factors such as vaccination coverage, healthcare infrastructure, and sociocultural barriers influencing the epidemiology of both viruses. The persistent burden of chronic HBV, particularly in older populations, and the evolving HCV genotype landscape highlight the need for targeted, region-specific strategies. Universal screening programs have emerged as essential tools for detecting undiagnosed cases and optimizing healthcare resource allocation. Given the overlapping epidemiology of HBV and HCV, comprehensive public health interventions tailored to the unique contexts of different Asian countries are crucial for achieving global elimination goals. This review examines the epidemiological trends, challenges, and opportunities for addressing HBV and HCV in Asia, emphasizing the importance of overcoming sociocultural barriers to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment efforts across diverse populations. Full article
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19 pages, 6476 KiB  
Article
Molecular Profiling for Blast Resistance Genes Pita2 and Pi2/Pi9 in Some Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Accessions and Selected Crosses
by Walaa M. Essa, Nesreen N. Bassuony, Abed El-aziz Tahoon, Abeer M. Mosalam and József Zsembeli
Agriculture 2025, 15(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15010061 - 29 Dec 2024
Viewed by 310
Abstract
Identifying major blast resistance genes in Oryza sativa L. genotypes is key to enhancing and maintaining the resistance. Observing rice varieties with durable resistance to blast has become a potential target in rice breeding programs. In this study, an evaluation was conducted during [...] Read more.
Identifying major blast resistance genes in Oryza sativa L. genotypes is key to enhancing and maintaining the resistance. Observing rice varieties with durable resistance to blast has become a potential target in rice breeding programs. In this study, an evaluation was conducted during 2020 and 2021 on ten Egyptian and introduced varieties. First, a field experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications, and it was found that the Egyptian cultivar Sakha 101 had the highest crop grain yields (53.27 g). The Spanish varieties Hispagrán and Puebla were the earliest (110 and 108 days, respectively) as well as the highest in 1000-grain yield, giving them priority as donors for these traits; however, they had the lowest mean values in the number of panicles. Second, these cultivars were subjected to eighteen isolates from five strains of Pyricularia oryzae (IH, IC, ID, IE, and II). The Egyptian varieties Giza 177, Giza 179, Sakha 106, Giza 182, GZ1368-5-5-4, and GZ6296 were 100% resistant, while Hispagrán’s resistance was 16.6%, followed by Sakha 101 with 27.8%. To gain insight into the ten varieties, we used STS, SCAR, and CAPS markers to detect and mine alleles for major blast broad-spectrum resistance genes Pi2, Pi9, and Pita2. In the context of considering gene pyramiding as an effective strategy for achieving broad durable spectrum resistance to blast, molecular profiling was also conducted on eighteen F2 single plants obtained from the hybridization of Giza 177 (resistant) × Puebla (susceptible) varieties. Also, eighteen F2 single plants were obtained from Giza 177 × Hispagrán (highly susceptible) varieties. Conducting a molecular scan with STS dominant marker YL153/YL154 was performed on ten cultivars to detect the presence of the Pita2 gene, which conferred a unique band in Puebla. By doing a scan of the 18 second-generation plants derived from Giza 177 × Puebla, 11 individual plants of the 18 plants obtained a band, which was transferred from Puebla. F2 plants obtained from Giza 177 × Puebla amplified with CAPS marker RG64-431/RG64-432 had higher numbers of Pi2 alleles, while F2 plants of Giza 177 × Hispagrán cross-amplified with SCAR marker linked to Pi9 exceeded their parents more. Our results have revealed that molecular markers played an essential role in determining the direction of evolution for blast resistance traits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Genetics, Genomics and Breeding)
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14 pages, 838 KiB  
Article
Cardiovascular Disease Screening in Primary School Children
by Alena Bagkaki, Fragiskos Parthenakis, Gregory Chlouverakis, Emmanouil Galanakis and Ioannis Germanakis
Children 2025, 12(1), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12010038 - 29 Dec 2024
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Abstract
Background: Screening for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its associated risk factors in childhood facilitates early detection and timely preventive interventions. However, limited data are available regarding screening tools and their diagnostic yield when applied in unselected pediatric populations. Aims: To evaluate the performance [...] Read more.
Background: Screening for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its associated risk factors in childhood facilitates early detection and timely preventive interventions. However, limited data are available regarding screening tools and their diagnostic yield when applied in unselected pediatric populations. Aims: To evaluate the performance of a CVD screening program, based on history, 12-lead ECG and phonocardiography, applied in primary school children. Methods: The methods used were prospective study, with voluntary participation of third-grade primary school children in the region of Crete/Greece, over 6 years (2018–2024). Personal and family history were collected by using a standardized questionnaire and physical evaluation (including weight, height, blood pressure measurement), and cardiac auscultation (digital phonocardiography (PCG)) and 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) were recorded at local health stations (Phase I). Following expert verification of responses and obtained data, assisted by designated electronic health record with incorporated decision support algorithms (phase II), pediatric cardiology evaluation at the tertiary referral center followed (phase III). Results: A total of 944 children participated (boys 49.6%). A total of 790 (83.7%) had Phase I referral indication, confirmed in 311(32.9%) during Phase II evaluation. Adiposity (10.8%) and hypertension (3.2%) as risk factors for CVD were documented in 10.8% and 3.2% of the total population, respectively. During Phase III evaluations (n = 201), the majority (n = 132, 14% of total) of children were considered as having a further indication for evaluation by other pediatric subspecialties for their reported symptoms. Abnormal CVD findings were present in 69 (7.3%) of the study population, including minor/trivial structural heart disease in 23 (2.4%) and 17 (1.8%), respectively, referred due to abnormal cardiac auscultation, and ECG abnormalities in 29 (3%), of which 6 (0.6%) were considered potentially significant (including 1 case of genetically confirmed channelopathy-LQT syndrome). Conclusions: CVD screening programs in school children can be very helpful for the early detection of CVD risk factors and of their general health as well. Expert cardiac auscultation and 12-lead ECG allow for the detection of structural and arrhythmogenic heard disease, respectively. Further study is needed regarding performance of individual components, accuracy of interpretation (including computer assisted diagnosis) and cost-effectiveness, before large-scale application of CVD screening in unselected pediatric populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Cardiology)
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13 pages, 1184 KiB  
Article
Gut Microbiota Interacts with Dietary Habits in Screenings for Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer
by Ana Vega-Rojas, Carmen Haro, Helena Molina-Abril, Silvia Guil-Luna, Jose Antonio Santos-Marcos, Francisco Miguel Gutierrez-Mariscal, Helena Garcia-Fernandez, Javier Caballero-Villarraso, Antonio Rodriguez-Ariza, Jose Lopez-Miranda, Pablo Perez-Martinez, Antonio Hervas and Antonio Camargo
Nutrients 2025, 17(1), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17010084 - 28 Dec 2024
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Gut microbiota interacts with nutrients, which may be relevant to assigning a microbial signature to colorectal cancer (CRC). We aim to evaluate the potential of gut microbiota combined with dietary habits in the early detection of pathological findings related to CRC in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Gut microbiota interacts with nutrients, which may be relevant to assigning a microbial signature to colorectal cancer (CRC). We aim to evaluate the potential of gut microbiota combined with dietary habits in the early detection of pathological findings related to CRC in the course of a screening program. Methodology: The colonoscopy performed on 152 subjects positive for fecal occult blood test showed that 6 subjects had adenocarcinoma, 123 had polyps, and 23 subjects had no pathological findings. Gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S metagenomic. Caret package was used to build the classification models in R. Results: Random forest (RF) classifier models were used to test the potential of gut microbiota alone or combined with dietary habits as a biomarker to discern between individuals with CRC-related lesions (polyps or adenocarcinoma) versus individuals without pathological findings. RF classifier models yielded an area under the curve of 0.790 using gut microbiota data, 0.710 using dietary habits data, and 0.804 in the combined model including gut microbiota and dietary habits data. The abundance of Suterella, Oscillospirales, Proteobacteria, and Burkholderiales was highly discriminant between groups, together with the consumption of fruit and vegetables and the consumption of carbonated and/or sweetened beverages. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the interaction between gut microbiota and dietary habits is relevant when a microbial signature is used as a marker in CRC. Moreover, gut microbiota signature and information about the dietary habits of the individuals seem to be important for improving screening programs for the early detection of CRC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Prebiotics and Probiotics)
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