Search Results (1,474)

α-L-fucosidases (EC 3.2.1.51) are of particular interest due to their ability to cleave terminal α-L-fucose residues from glycoconjugates, a property associated with numerous biological and therapeutic effects. They have also been investigated for their potential use in glycan remodeling, disease biomarker analysis, and particularly as therapeutic agents in the context of fucosidosis, a rare lysosomal storage disorder, caused by a deficiency in α-L-fucosidase activity. However, limitations in enzyme availability, stability, and substrate specificity highlight the need for novel and more efficient enzyme sources. Bifidobacterium castoris (B. castor is) is a newly identified species first discovered in the beaver gut microbiota in 2019. Phylogenetic studies have revealed its advanced metabolic capacity, and genomic analyses have demonstrated its extensive carbohydrate metabolism potential. This research article focuses on the recombinant production and biochemical characterization of a novel α-L-fucosidase from B. castoris LMG (Laboratorium voor Microbiologie Gent) 30937, predicted to belong to glycoside hydrolase family 29 (GH29) according to Universal Protein Resource (UniProt) annotation. Under optimized reaction conditions the recombinant α-L-fucosidase exhibited a specific activity of 0.264 U/mg to pNP-Fuc (4-Nitrophenyl-α-L-fucopyranoside). The results indicate that the enzyme is active in the pH range of 3.0–8.0 and temperatures of 24–42 °C, but its optimum conditions are the slightly acidic pH of 5.5 and the elevated temperature of 42 °C. This profile suggests that the enzyme is adapted to acidic intestinal-like environments. This novel enzyme expands the GH29 α-L-fucosidase repertoire and offers a promising new candidate for future biotechnological applications. Full article

Free jejunum is used for reconstruction after resection of advanced head and neck cancer. Postoperative transplanted mesenteric lymph nodes swelling is often experienced, but its clinical significance is unclear. This study included patients who underwent free jejunal reconstruction at Gifu University Hospital between March 2017 and November 2023. Regarding the size change of postoperative mesenteric lymph node and risk factors, the correlation with metastasis and prognosis was investigated. This study included 51 patients, of whom 16 cases (31.4%) had postoperative mesenteric lymph node swelling and 2 cases (3.9%) had metastasis. Only two cases with metastasis showed an increase in size of 5 mm or more. Many cases without extracapsular extension and cases of salvage surgery had postoperative mesenteric lymph node swelling (p = 0.0429, p = 0.0269). No correlation was found between postoperative mesenteric lymph node swelling and prognosis. However, because all cases with metastasis were included in cases of postoperative mesenteric lymph node swelling, this could be one factor in determining whether or not metastasis occurred. The transplanted mesenteric lymph node swelling is one of the important postoperative evaluation items, and additional evaluation such as PET-CT may be recommended. Full article

Background: Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) presents with Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS) in ~15% of cases, accounting for ~35% of early deaths within 48 h. Major complications—shock, renal failure, and respiratory insufficiency—arise from an overwhelming systemic inflammatory response driven by markedly elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines. Massive release of IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α underlies the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) with the oXiris filter, adsorbing endotoxins and cytokines, has been used in sepsis and applied early in SAP to reduce cytokine load and organ injury. Aims: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of early CVVH with the oXiris filter in modulating the systemic inflammatory response by removing toxic cytokines from the bloodstream in patients with SAP complicated by organ dysfunction and refractory sepsis. Methods: This single-centre, retrospective, observational study was conducted at a tertiary university hospital between 2000 and 2022. Forty-eight consecutive patients with SAP at onset, defined according to the 2012 Atlanta Classification, with an APACHE II score ≥ 19 and persistent organ dysfunction (>48 h), were included. All patients were unresponsive to initial intensive care within the first 24 h and underwent urgent laparotomy with extensive peritoneal lavage, pancreatic necrosectomy, and placement of multiple abdominal drains, followed by transfer to the intensive care unit. CVVH (Prismax system) with the oXiris filter was initiated within 12 h post-surgery. IL-6 and TNF-α were selected as inflammatory markers and measured in both serum and ultrafiltrate at baseline (0 h) and at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. These measurements were correlated with clinical parameters and prognostic scores (APACHE II, SOFA). Results: Treatment was well tolerated in all patients. The 28-day survival rate was 97.9%. There was a significant time-dependent decrease in IL-6 (p = 0.019) and TNF-α (p = 0.008) concentrations in the ultrafiltrate, consistent with high early adsorption followed by a reduced cytokine burden, whereas serum levels showed a non-significant downward trend (IL-6 p = 0.08; TNF-α p = 0.310). The APACHE II score decreased from 23 postoperatively to 8 by the second week (−65.2%; p = 0.013), with a statistically significant correlation between cytokine reduction and clinical improvement. Adverse events were rare and manageable. Conclusions: Early CVVH with the oXiris filter in SAP, complicated by MODS and refractory sepsis, proved safe, well-tolerated, and potentially effective in reducing cytokine burden and improving prognostic indices. These findings support the hypothesis of a relevant immunomodulatory effect, warranting prospective controlled trials to confirm its true impact on survival and organ recovery. Full article

Myanmar’s electricity supply relies mainly on hydropower and gas-fired generation, yet rural electrification remains limited, with national access at approximately 60%. The National Electrification Plan (NEP) aims for universal access via nationwide grid expansion, but progress in remote areas is constrained by financial limits and suspended external funding. This study evaluates the techno-economic feasibility of decentralized microgrids as an alternative to conventional grid extension under current budgetary conditions. We integrate a terrain-adjusted MV line-cost model with (i) PLEXOS capacity expansion and chronological dispatch for centralized supply and (ii) HOMER Pro optimization for PV–diesel–battery microgrids. Key indicators include LCOE, NPC, CAPEX, OPEX, reliability (ASAI/max shortage), renewable fraction, and unserved energy. Sensitivity analyses cover diesel, PV, and battery prices, as well as discount rate variations. The results show microgrids are more cost-effective in terrain-constrained regions such as Chin State, particularly when accounting for transmission and delayed generation costs, whereas grid extension remains preferable in flat, accessible regions like Nay Pyi Taw. Diesel price is the dominant cost driver across both regions, while battery cost and discount rate affect Chin State more, and PV cost is critical in Nay Pyi Taw’s solar-rich context. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for rural electrification strategies in Myanmar and other developing countries facing similar financial and infrastructural challenges. Full article

With the rapid development of Multimodal Large Language Models (MLLMs) in education, their applications have mainly focused on content generation tasks such as text writing and courseware production. However, automated assessment of non-exam learning outcomes remains underexplored. This study shifts the application of MLLMs from content generation to content evaluation and designs a lightweight and extensible framework to enable automated assessment of students’ multimodal work. We constructed a multimodal dataset comprising student essays, slide decks, and presentation videos from university students, which were annotated by experts across five educational dimensions. Based on horizontal educational evaluation dimensions (Format Compliance, Content Quality, Slide Design, Verbal Expression, and Nonverbal Performance) and vertical model capability dimensions (consistency, stability, and interpretability), we systematically evaluated four leading multimodal large models (GPT-4o, Gemini 2.5, Doubao1.6, and Kimi 1.5) in assessing non-exam learning outcomes. The results indicate that MLLMs demonstrate good consistency with human evaluations across various assessment dimensions, with each model exhibiting its own strengths. Additionally, they possess high explainability and perform better in text-based tasks than in visual tasks, but their scoring stability still requires improvement. This study demonstrates the potential of MLLMs for non-exam learning assessment and provides a reference for advancing their applications in education. Full article

From the psychology of sport, the impact of group cohesion on sports performance has been studied extensively; therefore, it is considered important to measure this variable to design interventions that improve collective work to achieve goals together. This study adapted and validated the Group Environment Questionnaire (GEQ) for Mexican university athletes. In a cross-sectional instrumental design, 226 athletes from various team sports completed the scale. Internal consistency statistics and confirmatory factor analyses Goodness-of-Fit Index (GFI), Comparative Fit Index (CFI), and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) evaluated psychometrics. After removing three items with weak loadings, three structural models were tested as follows: (a) unidimensional, (b) task vs. social cohesion, and (c) attraction vs. integration. The unidimensional model showed the best fit (χ² = 177.33; GFI = 0.90; CFI = 0.92; RMSEA = 0.07) and high reliability, indicating that cohesion can be treated as a single overarching construct. Task items exhibited higher consistency than social items. In conclusion, the adapted version of the GEQ is a useful tool for the evaluation of cohesion in Mexican university sports, although it is recommended to improve social items and expand its application in different disciplines and competitive levels. Full article

The extraordinary diversity of protein sequences and structures gives rise to a vast protein functional universe with extensive biotechnological potential. Nevertheless, this universe remains largely unexplored, constrained by the limitations of natural evolution and conventional protein engineering. Substantial evidence further indicates that the known natural fold space is approaching saturation, with novel folds rarely emerging. AI-driven de novo protein design is overcoming these constraints by enabling the computational creation of proteins with customized folds and functions. This review systematically surveys the rapidly advancing field of AI-based de novo protein design, reviewing current methodologies and examining how cutting-edge computational frameworks accelerate discovery through three complementary vectors: (1) exploring novel folds and topologies; (2) designing functional sites de novo; (3) exploring sequence–structure–function landscapes. We highlight key applications across therapeutic, catalytic, and synthetic biology and discuss the persistent challenges. By fusing recent progress and the existing limitations, this review outlines how AI is not only accelerating the exploration of the protein functional universe but also fundamentally expanding the possibilities within protein engineering, paving the way for bespoke biomolecules with tailored functionalities. Full article

Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites (NFRPCs) are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives to conventional composite materials, due to their renewable origin, potential biodegradability, and possibly lower environmental impact. However, while technical advances in NFRPCs have progressed, the application of Circular Design (CD) strategies to their development remains underexplored. This paper presents a preliminary conceptual framework developed at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, aligning CD principles with the specific challenges and opportunities of NFRPCs. Building upon an extensive literature review, the study identifies and critically evaluates key design principles, tools, and strategies, assessing their relevance for guiding decision-making in this material context. The proposed framework offers guidance for integrating CD strategies from the earliest stages of product development, encompassing material selection, lifecycle mapping, and end-of-life planning. To assess its usability and practical value, the framework was tested through two academic case studies. The feedback gathered highlights both the framework’s potential as a learning and design support tool and the need for improved accessibility and clarity in Circular Design resources. Overall, this work contributes to bridging the gap between sustainable materials research and practical design application, offering a material-specific, adaptable, and bilingual resource for students, early-career engineers, and designers seeking to adopt circular practices. By combining systemic thinking with material-specific considerations, the framework fosters the development of more inclusive, regenerative, and ethically responsible design solutions. Full article

Background/Objectives: The advent of combination antiretroviral therapy has led to significant reductions in HIV-related morbidity and mortality and, conversely, an increasing incidence of chronic diseases, such as cancer. This study aimed to assess the incidence of skin malignancies in a cohort of people living with HIV (PLWH) compared to HIV-uninfected individuals (HUPs). Methods: Between April 2023 and April 2025, PLWH attending the Infectious Disease Unit at Policlinico of Foggia, Italy, were invited for skin cancer screening (cases). During the same period, patients visiting the Dermatology Unit were asked to undergo skin cancer screening and a rapid HIV test. Those who tested negative were included as controls. Suspicious lesions were surgically excised at the Plastic Surgery University Unit and examined by a dermatopathologist. Results: We enrolled 91 cases and 91 controls. Precancerous and cancerous skin lesions were detected at similar rates in PLWH and HUPs (12% vs. 13.2% and 7.6% vs. 8.7%). The total number of cancerous and precancerous lesions was higher in the PLWH group. In both groups, basal cell carcinoma was the most common tumor. Squamous cell carcinoma, basosquamous carcinoma, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans were found only in PLWH. Conclusions: The higher risk of multiple and rare skin cancers in PLWH should be recognized by healthcare providers and patients. PLWH should have regular skin cancer screenings, especially if they have additional risk factors such as a history of extensive ultraviolet radiation exposure. Full article

Introduction: Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome (FIRS) is widely acknowledged for its contribution to neonatal morbidity in premature infants. Being a systemic inflammatory process triggered by intrauterine infections or other stimuli, FIRS has gained significant attention due to its complex implications for neonatal adverse outcomes: preterm birth, early onset neonatal sepsis, death or long-term neurodevelopmental impairments. Fetal plasma Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels above 11 pg/mL define FIRS and serve as an essential biomarker, providing insights into the complex mechanisms underlying this response. This study aims to evaluate the clinical, laboratory, and therapeutic differences between preterm neonates with and without FIRS. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted, involving 125 preterm neonates with gestational ages between 23 and 37 weeks, who were admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Emergency University Hospital Bucharest between April 2023 and April 2025. Infants were stratified into FIRS and non-FIRS groups based on the measurement of cord blood IL-6 levels greater than 11 pg/mL. Demographic, biochemical, and therapeutic parameters were compared across the two groups. Results: Preterm neonates with FIRS had significantly lower birth weight, length, and head circumference, and lower Apgar scores at 1 and 5 min (p = 0.001). FIRS was associated with a higher incidence of vaginal delivery, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and neonatal metabolic imbalances, requiring more respiratory support, longer antibiotic treatment periods, and more blood transfusions (p < 0.05). Neonatal complications such as early-onset sepsis (EOS) and late-onset sepsis (LOS), respiratory distress, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) were significantly more frequent in the FIRS group (p ≤ 0.01). Among maternal cervical screening, Chlamydia trachomatis was the only pathogen significantly associated with FIRS. Conclusions: FIRS in preterm neonates is linked to important perinatal inflammation, adverse short and long-term outcomes, and extensive medical intervention. These findings highlight the value of early identification of intrauterine inflammation and targeted neonatal monitoring strategies. Further studies are needed to explore long-term outcomes and improve diagnostic and therapeutic protocols. Full article

The influenza virus is one of the major global health concerns, causing significant morbidity and mortality in both humans and animals, with substantial impacts on public health. Vaccination remains the primary strategy for managing influenza virus infections; however, the virus undergoes frequent genetic changes through antigenic drift and shift. These mutations lead to new seasonal strains that evade pre-existing immunity. These mutations can potentially result in virulent strains that could trigger future pandemics. Therefore, developing a vaccine capable of providing robust protection despite these genetic changes is essential. Vaccine adjuvants are essential for boosting and directing the immune system’s response, broadening the spectrum of protection, and reducing the amount of antigen required to achieve protection, which is particularly valuable in the face of rapidly evolving strains and during pandemics. Recent advances in adjuvant design and formulation strategies have demonstrated promising improvements in both the overall potency and durability of influenza vaccines, importantly, significant reductions in losses due to influenza infection. This review highlights the current status of different types of influenza virus vaccines, their benefits, and challenges. Further, the review focuses on the role of adjuvants, discussing their advantages, limitations, and methodological approaches, while also considering their potential contribution in developing a universal flu vaccine intended to provide extensive and lasting protection. Full article

The growing demand for electronics engineers is one of the cornerstones of STEM education. Recent trends in education show an extension of the STEM principle into STEAM by mixing Arts with the traditional Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math disciplines. Especially in elementary education, this has beneficial effects by increasing the appeal of STEM disciplines. This STEAM principle is less studied in university settings, but it can be beneficial for engineering students as well. This paper presents a case study of extending an Embedded Systems Programming class to include GUI design elements. Employing graphical user interfaces in embedded devices has been an increasing trend in the last decade, and there is also demand for introducing it into courses concerning embedded systems and microcontrollers. Teaching engineering students about graphic design has two main benefits: it increases the appeal of the course and also leads to better understanding the interaction between the two worlds of Arts and Engineering. The survey results of students after finishing the course show a high satisfaction level. Full article

Postoperative edema is a nearly universal consequence of aesthetic surgery, yet its clinical implications and potential progression to lymphedema remain underexplored. This review examines the prevalence, pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies for edema and lymphedema following aesthetic procedures. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases identified studies involving adult patients undergoing aesthetic surgeries with documented postoperative edema or lymphedema. The review found that while edema is expected postoperatively and is generally self-limiting, persistent or disproportionate swelling may indicate early lymphedema. Risk factors include extensive liposuction, body contouring, and procedures involving lymphatic disruption. Despite its significance, lymphedema remains underdiagnosed due to a lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and low clinical suspicion. Emerging imaging modalities, such as indocyanine green lymphography, enhance early detection, while conservative treatments, such as manual lymphatic drainage, compression, and physical therapy, remain first-line interventions. Increased awareness among surgeons and incorporation of lymphatic-preserving techniques are vital to reducing morbidity. This review underscores the importance of distinguishing transient edema from chronic lymphedema and calls for further research to establish evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis, prevention, and management of postoperative lymphedema in aesthetic surgery. Full article

The contribution of this paper lies in its extension of the phenomenological insights of Martin Buber and Jean-Luc Marion—in particular, Buber’s philosophy of dialogue and the I–thou relation, and Marion’s articulation of saturated phenomenality—to the unique context of the relation between a spiritual Master and a disciple. The author of this paper is the disciple in question, such that a certain autobiographical dimension to the analysis is inevitable and even necessary. From this it follows that the analysis presented in no way aspires to apply universally to all Master–disciple relationships, though some generality may be possible to the extent that both Buber’s and Marion’s phenomenological insights may be generalizable to some degree. At heart, what is hoped is that the thick phenomenological descriptions contained in the analysis, expressions of a sustained application of the work of Buber and Marion to a unique context, will be of interest to the reader. Full article

The indoor microclimate conditions of historical libraries play a pivotal role in ensuring the long-term preservation of their valuable collections, while also influencing the comfort and well-being of staff and visitors. These two objectives may be in contrast, as proved in extensive literature. Microclimate monitoring is essential to evaluate which factors could expose the content of the library to a risk of damage and to design prevention measures. This paper presents the monitoring project, the systems and methodology, and the initial results of an experimental study on the indoor microclimate conditions of the University Library of Bologna (BUL), a very relevant cultural heritage building in the historic city center. The overall objective of the monitoring project is to gain knowledge of the specific microclimate conditions and the historical climate of the three main rooms of the BUL to define the right balance between the needs of conservation and the thermal comfort of staff, users, and visitors. The paper focuses on the short-term indoor monitoring assessment, carried out in the initial phase of the monitoring campaign. This phase, rarely addressed in the literature, is crucial because it enables the collection of results that can guide and orient the entire long-term monitoring campaign. The research results produced so far demonstrate the validity of the methodological approach and the monitoring framework, as well as the reliability of the related data. Moreover, they offer insights that can support the forthcoming inclusion of the BUL in a broader museum system. Full article