Mortality prediction in respiratory health is challenging,especially when using large-scale clinical datasets composed primarily of categorical variables.Traditional digital twin(DT)frameworks often rely on longi-tudi...Mortality prediction in respiratory health is challenging,especially when using large-scale clinical datasets composed primarily of categorical variables.Traditional digital twin(DT)frameworks often rely on longi-tudinal or sensor-based data,which are not always available in public health contexts.In this article,we propose a novel proto-DT framework for mortality prediction in respiratory health using a large-scale categorical biomedical dataset.This dataset contains 415,711 severe acute respiratory infection cases from the Brazilian Unified Health System,including both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients.Four classification models—extreme gradient boosting(XGBoost),logistic regression,random forest,and a deep neural network(DNN)—are trained using cost-sensitive learning to address class imbalance.The models are evaluated using accuracy,precision,recall,F1-score,and area under the curve(AUC)related to the receiver operating characteristic(ROC).The framework supports simulated interventions by modifying selected inputs and recalculating predicted mortality.Additionally,we incorporate multiple correspondence analysis and K-means clustering to explore model sensitivity.A Python library has been developed to ensure reproducibility.All models achieve AUC-ROC values near or above 0.85.XGBoost yields the highest accuracy(0.84),while the DNN achieves the highest recall(0.81).Scenario-based simulations reveal how key clinical factors,such as intensive care unit admission and oxygen support,affect predicted outcomes.The proposed proto-DT framework demonstrates the feasibility of mortality prediction and intervention simulation using categorical data alone.This framework provides a foundation for data-driven explainable DTs in public health,even in the absence of time-series data.展开更多
In this study,artificial neural networks(ANNs)were implemented to determine design parameters for an impressed current cathodic protection(ICCP)prototype.An ASTM A36 steel plate was tested in 3.5%NaCl solution,seawate...In this study,artificial neural networks(ANNs)were implemented to determine design parameters for an impressed current cathodic protection(ICCP)prototype.An ASTM A36 steel plate was tested in 3.5%NaCl solution,seawater,and NS4 using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS)to monitor the evolution of the substrate surface,which affects the current required to reach the protection potential(Eprot).Experimental data were collected as training datasets and analyzed using statistical methods,including box plots and correlation matrices.Subsequently,ANNs were applied to predict the current demand at different exposure times,enabling the estimation of electrochemical parameters(limiting voltage values)that can be used to optimize a self-regulating ICCP system.The obtained electrochemical parameters were then used,through Particle Swarm Optimization(PSO),to fine-tune an ANN-based proportional-integral-derivative(PID)controller for the ICCP system.展开更多
The effects of seemingly inert alkali metal(AM)cations on the electrocatalytic activity of electrode materials towards reactions essential for energy provision have become the emphasis of substantial research efforts ...The effects of seemingly inert alkali metal(AM)cations on the electrocatalytic activity of electrode materials towards reactions essential for energy provision have become the emphasis of substantial research efforts in recent years.The hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions during alkaline water electrolysis and the oxygen electro-reduction taking place in fuel cells are of particular importance.There is no universal theory explaining all the details of the AM cation effect in electrocatalysis.For example,it remains unclear how“spectator”AM-cations can change the kinetics of electrocatalytic reactions often more significantly than the modifications of the elec-trode structure and composition.This situation originates partly from a lack of systematic experimental and theoretical studies of this phenomenon.The present work exploits impedance spectroscopy to investigate the influence of the AM cations on the mechanism of the hydrogen evolution reaction at Pt microelectrodes.The activity follows the trend:Li^(+)≥Na^(+)≥K^(+)≥Cs^(+),where the highest activity corresponds to 0.1 M LiOH electrolytes at low overpotentials.We demonstrate that the nature of the AM cations also changes the relative contribution of the Volmer–Heyrovsky and Volmer–Tafel mechanisms to the overall reaction,with the former being more important for LiOH electrolytes.Our density functional theory-based thermodynamics and molecular dynamics calculations support these findings.展开更多
Considering student obesity problem,this study investigated Chilean teachers’behavioral intentions to include two anti-obesity health messages into their classroom teaching activities,which belonged to the“Choose to...Considering student obesity problem,this study investigated Chilean teachers’behavioral intentions to include two anti-obesity health messages into their classroom teaching activities,which belonged to the“Choose to Live Healthy”campaign.Using the traditional model of the Theory of Planned Behavior(TPB;Ajzen,1985),three research questions were answered:(a)Which of the two messages from the“Choose to Live Healthy”Campaign are known by Chilean schools’teachers?(b)According to the level of knowledge of each message declared by teachers,how do the TPB model and its subcomponents explain teachers’intentions variability to include an anti-obesity message based on the campaign studied in their teaching activities?and(c)Based on the knowledge declared by teachers of the campaign messages,do the TPB model’s subcomponents explain the variability on teachers’intentions to include the anti-obesity content of the campaign message in their teaching activities by types of schools?A total of 245 Chilean teachers were surveyed across three different types of schools.Results from regression analysis confirmed that five of the TPB subcomponents made a fundamental contribution to examine the variability of the theoretical framework upon teachers’behavioral intentions,with the exemption of perceived behavioral control autonomy.This study confirmed the great relevance and effectiveness of the TPB model to contribute to the interpretation of behavioral intentions variability across different types of contexts.Implications for health campaigns are mentioned.展开更多
Materials used in building envelopes and urban areas contribute significantly to the urban heat island(UHI).In this context,this paper presents a study utilizing infrared thermography(IRT)to assess urban streets and b...Materials used in building envelopes and urban areas contribute significantly to the urban heat island(UHI).In this context,this paper presents a study utilizing infrared thermography(IRT)to assess urban streets and building surface materials in the coastal city of Bayahibe,Dominican Republic.Measurements were conducted in situ in six urban street canyons(Sections A–F)during the warmest and coldest weather conditions.A FLIR T420 thermal camera,FLIR Tools+software,and the emissivity values of common building materials in Bayahibe were used to determine surface temperatures under sunlit and shaded conditions.The findings show that sunlit surfaces of urban elements generally exhibited higher surface temperatures compared to their shaded counterparts in both warm and cold periods.Metal surfaces displayed the most significant surface temperature differences between sunlit and shaded areas.Additionally,light-colored block walls presented lower surface temperatures than medium and dark-colored ones.This research provides insights into the urban microclimate of Bayahibe under different meteorological conditions.It supports the development of strategies to mitigate the UHI effect and enhance pedestrian thermal comfort in tropical and coastal cities by emphasizing the importance of shading elements and light-colored surfaces.The findings can inform specific interventions and policies for creating more sustainable and climate-resilient urban environments in the Caribbean region.展开更多
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the world,with more than 9 million deaths in 2022,a number that continues to rise.This highlights the urgent need for the development of new drugs,with enhanced ant...Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the world,with more than 9 million deaths in 2022,a number that continues to rise.This highlights the urgent need for the development of new drugs,with enhanced antitumor capabilities and fewer side effects.Metal-based drugs have been used in clinical practice since the late 1970s,beginning with the introduction of cisplatin.Later,two additional platinum-based molecules,carboplatin,and oxaliplatin,were introduced,and all three continue to be widely used in the treatment of various cancers.However,despite their significant anticancer activity,the undesirable side effects of these drugs have motivated the scientific community to explore other metal-based complexes with greater anticancer potential and fewer adverse effects.In this context,metals such as ruthenium,copper,gold,zinc,palladium,or iridium,present promising alternatives for the development of new anticancer agents.Unfortunately,although thousands of metal-based drugs have been synthesized and tested both in vitro and in animal models,only a few ruthenium-based drugs have entered clinical trials in recent years.Meanwhile,many other molecules with comparable or even greater anticancer potential have not advanced beyond the laboratory stage.In this review,we will revisit the mechanisms of action and anticancer activities of established platinum-based drugs and explore their use in recent clinical trials.Additionally,we will examine the development of potential new metal-based drugs that could one day contribute to cancer treatment worldwide.展开更多
The incidence of saphenous vein graft aneurysms(SVGAs)after coronary artery bypass grafting(CABG)is approximately 0.07%;[1]however,the true incidence is likely underreported because of their frequent incidental discov...The incidence of saphenous vein graft aneurysms(SVGAs)after coronary artery bypass grafting(CABG)is approximately 0.07%;[1]however,the true incidence is likely underreported because of their frequent incidental discovery.[2]Due to its rarity,knowledge mainly comes from case reports and small case series,though some decision algorithms have been proposed in systematic reviews.展开更多
In this study,lithium carbonate(Li_(2)CO_(3))sourced from the Salar de Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia was used in the synthesis of cathode active material for Li-ion batteries.X-ray diffraction,atomic absorption spectrome...In this study,lithium carbonate(Li_(2)CO_(3))sourced from the Salar de Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia was used in the synthesis of cathode active material for Li-ion batteries.X-ray diffraction,atomic absorption spectrometry,and scanning electron microscopy analyses confirmed that the material had a high phase purity(99.59%,battery-grade)and a suitable morphology for active material synthesis,comparable to a similar commercially obtained material.Li[Ni_(1/3)Mn_(1/3)Co_(1/3)]O_(2)(NMC111)was synthesized as a model system using Li_(2)CO_(3) as the precursor and evaluated in full,large-format pouch cells along with three-electrode cells,using commercially relevant active material fractions and mass loadings for meaningful assessment of electrochemical performance.展开更多
Roads are a leading cause of habitat fragmentation and may reduce bird populations by increasing nest predation rates.However,few studies have investigated the effects of traffic volume on the reproductive success of ...Roads are a leading cause of habitat fragmentation and may reduce bird populations by increasing nest predation rates.However,few studies have investigated the effects of traffic volume on the reproductive success of roadside birds in the neotropics.Our goal was to evaluate the effects of spatial,temporal,and vehicle flow variations on the survival of artificial open-cup nests.The study was carried out in a nature reserve on the side of a highway during the breeding season(from October to March)in two restinga(sand-coastal plain)phytophysiognomies in southeastern Brazil:non-floodable(open)and floodable(closed).One hundred thirty nests were distributed along transects ranging from 3 m to 300 m from the highway in each vegetation type(totaling 260 nests).The nests were checked every three days for their status(depredated or intact)over 12 days,and new nests were subsequently placed near sampling points of depredated or successful nests.We estimated survival using logistic exposure generalized linear and additive mixed models.At the end of the 180 days of the experiment,33%of 6202 nests were successful.Nest survival was higher in open restinga than in closed restinga.In both habitats,nest survival was lowest mid-season and highest at the beginning and end.Survival rates peaked near the highway,declined up to 50 m away,then showed a slight increase.Finally,survival increased at moderate-to-high traffic volumes(∼22,000 vehicles/day),particularly in open restinga.We suggest that spatial,temporal,and habitat-specific highway impacts(e.g.,noise,vibration,visual stimuli)can lead to variations in the activity of nest predators,generating fluctuations in nest survival associated with predator behavior.展开更多
With a plethora of anthropometric and body composition measurements,may be challenging for soccer technical staff determining the most suitable protocol for their players.Objectives:Therefore,the aim of the study was ...With a plethora of anthropometric and body composition measurements,may be challenging for soccer technical staff determining the most suitable protocol for their players.Objectives:Therefore,the aim of the study was to analyze the correlations of anthropometric measures and fat percentage obtained by different protocols with the physical performance of male professional soccer players.Additionally,the study aimed to propose cutoff points for anthropometric measures and fat percentage.Methods:Fifty-two male soccer players(24.60±4.98 years)from a state championship’s second division participated.The sum of skinfolds and fat percentage were obtained using four reference protocols(Pollock seven-skinfolds,Jackson and Pollock three-skinfolds,Jackson and Pollock threeskinfolds of the upper limbs,and Faulkner four-skinfolds).Physical performance was assessed by squat jump,counter movement jump,30 cm drop jump,20m sprint,and YoYo intermittent recovery level 1(YoYoIRL1)tests.Pearson,Spearman,and ROC curve analysis were used considering α<0.05 as significance level.Results:Significant correlations occurred between the abdominal skinfold(r=−0.579),chest,abdominal,and front thigh skinfolds sum(rho=−0.518),and the Jackson and Pollock fat percentage protocol using these skinfolds(r=−0.534)with the YoYoIRL1(all p<0.001).Cutoff points for these measurements were determined to be 20mm(area under the curve(AUC)=0.800,sensitivity=92.7%,specificity=63.6%),33mm(AUC=0.783,sensitivity=68.3%,specificity=81.8%),and 13%(AUC=0.787,sensitivity=95.1%,specificity=54.5%),respectively.Conclusions:Therefore,the soccer technical staff can implement these measures,largely associated with physical performance,in players with characteristics similar to the evaluated group.The proposed cut-off points provide a practical alternative for integration into other monitoring strategies.展开更多
Bioethics is the argumentative discipline of decisions and actions that reduce conflicts of interest,dilemmas,or asymmetries between the parties involved in biomedical research.The objective of this work was to review...Bioethics is the argumentative discipline of decisions and actions that reduce conflicts of interest,dilemmas,or asymmetries between the parties involved in biomedical research.The objective of this work was to review and compare the dimensions used by bioethics in the communicative management of the pandemic,namely:risk,vulnerability,resilience,and stigma.A documentary,exploratory,transversal,and retrospective work was carried out with a sample of sources indexed in international repositories,considering the search by keywords and the publication period from 2020 to 2024.The results demonstrate the prevalence of supply,contagion,symptoms,and help against COVID-19.展开更多
Carbon-based sponge materials have attracted massive attention as electromagnetic wave(EMW)absorber candidates due to their lightweight and excellent electromagnetic(EM)attenuation capability.However,the high cost,com...Carbon-based sponge materials have attracted massive attention as electromagnetic wave(EMW)absorber candidates due to their lightweight and excellent electromagnetic(EM)attenuation capability.However,the high cost,complex fabrication process and limited EMW absorption bandwidth restrict their application.Herein,a hierarchical threedimensional(3D)cotton derived carbon fibers coated with core–shell structure Fe Ni nanoparticle@porous carbon(CCF/Fe Ni@PC)from MOF precursor were successfully constructed by coprecipitation and one-step pyrolysis methods.By regulating carbonization temperature,optimizing the electromagnetic parameters,outstanding electromagnetic absorption(EMA)performance was achieved.The CCF@Fe Ni/PC synthesized at 900℃demonstrates a-64.5 d B minimum reflection loss(RL_(min))at 15.39 GHz,and the effective absorption bandwidth(EAB)is 5.08 GHz when the thickness is only1.9 mm.Notably,the maximum EAB(EAB_(max))was extended8.18 GHz at 2.96 mm for Fe Ni-800.The excellent microwave absorption performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of enhanced dielectric loss and magnetic loss,good impedance matching as well as hierarchical multiple scattering and reflection of EMWs.The obtained CCF@Fe Ni/PC composites provide a novel and promising strategy for constructing lightweight low-cost efficient microwave absorption materials.展开更多
Iron oxide-copper–gold(IOCG)deposits encompass a diverse set of mineralization styles,leading to outstanding questions about how different alteration facies are related across a single ore-producing system and the ov...Iron oxide-copper–gold(IOCG)deposits encompass a diverse set of mineralization styles,leading to outstanding questions about how different alteration facies are related across a single ore-producing system and the overarching mechanisms of ore genesis.This study investigates the age and characteristics of mineralization at the La Farola deposit,a hematite-dominated IOCG deposit located at the southern margin of the Candelaria-Punta del Cobre IOCG district of northern Chile.Two lithologically-controlled ore bodies occur along the WSW-ENE striking,∼18°NNW-dipping contact between the Lower Cretaceous Chañarcillo Group and Punta del Cobre Formation.Syn-mineralization N-S to NNW-SSE striking sinistral strike-slip faults likely acted as fluid pathways.Distinct mineral assemblages include an early Na-Ca assemblage(albite-scapolite)overprinted by skarnoid garnet with minor pyroxene,Ca-Fe(magnetite-actinolite),and K-Fe(magnetite-k-feldspar-biotite and minor sulfides)assemblages.The main sulfide mineralization(chalcopyrite-pyrite with minor bornite)is associated with specular hematite-white mica-K-feldspar-calcite and overprints all previous assemblages.The presence of hematite as the dominant Fe-oxide phase associated with Cu mineralization is characteristic of lower-temperature IOCG deposits,and may be a result of La Farola’s stratigraphic position<700 m higher than other deposits in the district.New U-Pb ages of 115.7±1.2 Ma for garnet and Re-Os ages of∼113–114 Ma for sulfides indicate mineralization occurred within a 3-million-year timeframe.These findings confirm hematite-dominant mineralization at La Farola was coeval with IOCG mineralization across the district.This research contributes to understanding IOCG systems and their formation mechanisms,highlighting the control local geological structures and alteration processes has on the diversity of mineralization types associated with a single IOCG system.展开更多
BACKGROUND The question of whether a colonoscopist should evaluate anal diseases is relevant.Endoscopists need to be aware of the possibility of anal neoplasms during a colonoscopy,as they can be easily overlooked if ...BACKGROUND The question of whether a colonoscopist should evaluate anal diseases is relevant.Endoscopists need to be aware of the possibility of anal neoplasms during a colonoscopy,as they can be easily overlooked if not properly examined.Specifically,one must clarify the responsibility of the colonoscopist in the diagnosis of anal neoplasms.Anal cancer is relatively rare,accounting for less than 2%of all cases annually.Owing to its rarity,population screening for anal cancer is not indicated,and monitoring is limited to high-risk groups.However,the number of anal cancer cases in high-risk groups has increased over the past four decades worldwide.AIM To assess the results of anal examinations performed during routine colonoscopy and emphasize the importance of diagnosing anal neoplasms.METHODS This was a retrospective study of 16836 patients who were screened by colonoscopy and received a detailed anal examination by videoanoscopy between 2006 and 2024.Among several other findings,the presence of anal neoplasms and suspicious anal cancer lesions was observed.All examinations,including complete anal examination,inspection,digital rectal examination,and videoanoscopy,were performed,and images were recorded and reported.The examinations were individually viewed by the work group,and the findings were analyzed.RESULTS Among the 22676 colonoscopies performed,16836 patients were identified,and 88 lesions suspected of neoplasia(0.52%)were found.Among them,there were 23 cases of neoplasia(0.13%),9 cases of confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal(0.05%),5 cases of adenocarcinoma in the anal canal(0.03%),3 cases of rare neoplasms(0.01%),and 6 cases of adenoma(0.03%).CONCLUSION The systematic performance of anal examinations and anoscopy during routine colonoscopy allows the identification of numerous anal diseases,including incidental cases of anal cancer.展开更多
Dry eye disease(DED)is a multifactorial disorder that disturbs ocular surface equilibrium,considerably diminishing quality of life.Present therapies only offer symptomatic alleviation.Stem cell treatment,especially me...Dry eye disease(DED)is a multifactorial disorder that disturbs ocular surface equilibrium,considerably diminishing quality of life.Present therapies only offer symptomatic alleviation.Stem cell treatment,especially mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs),has surfaced as a viable approach for tissue regeneration and immunological regulation in DED.Preclinical and early clinical investigations indicate that MSCs can improve lacrimal gland functionality,diminish inflammation,and facilitate corneal regeneration.Nonetheless,obstacles persist in enhancing MSC viability,determining the optimal MSC source,and guaranteeing sustained therapeutic effectiveness.Additional extensive randomized clinical trials are required to confirm the efficacy of MSC-based therapies for severe DED.展开更多
Bioremediation is an eco-friendly alternative for soil restoration.However,its outcomes are still variable.Different bioremediation strategies were used in a chronically polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon(PAH)-contaminat...Bioremediation is an eco-friendly alternative for soil restoration.However,its outcomes are still variable.Different bioremediation strategies were used in a chronically polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon(PAH)-contaminated soil,and no degradation was achieved.This work attempts to study whether the soil bacterial community has the genetic potential for aromatic compound degradation(ACD).While 16S rRNA metabarcoding of that soil showed a predominance of Proteobacteria,shotgun metagenomics indicated that 99.5%of the sequences were taxonomically assigned to Streptomycetales,and almost all genes related to ACD were assigned to the latter.As comprehension of the composition and metabolic potential of a soil community can be enhanced by exploring enrichment cultures of that soil,a culture approach followed by a shotgun metagenomic analysis was performed.These enrichment cultures were obtained by sequential transfers with pyrene conducted every 7(r-EFP)and 28(k-MSP2)d.Both r-EFP and k-MSP2 demonstrated the ability to degrade pyrene and the presence of genes related to ACD.While Pseudomonas and Olivibacter were the predominant genera in r-EFP,Mycobacterium,Chitoniphaga,Bacillus,and Pseudoxanthomonas were predominant in k-MSP2.This study demonstrated the soil bacterial community's potential to degrade PAHs of three and four rings.Therefore,exploration of bioremediation strategies aimed at activating this potential would be worthwhile.It was confirmed that shotgun metagenomics may not fully reveal potential bacterial functions when characterizing impacted soil microbiomes.Additionally,culture-based methods complemented and increased the knowledge obtained from culture-independent approaches,demonstrating their utility for bioprospecting PAH degraders and designing microbiome engineering strategies.展开更多
BACKGROUND Brush cytology is the most commonly used technique for tissue acquisition during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for the evaluation of biliary strictures.Nonetheless,brush cytology is limited...BACKGROUND Brush cytology is the most commonly used technique for tissue acquisition during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for the evaluation of biliary strictures.Nonetheless,brush cytology is limited by its low sensitivity due to insufficient cellular yield.AIM To evaluate the impact of the sheath-rinse technique on improving the cellularity yield.METHODS A total of 112 patients with suspected malignant biliary strictures were enrolled at two tertiary centers in South Korea.The sample cellularity and diagnostic accuracy of brush-wash and sheath-rinse specimens were compared.RESULTS A significantly increased number of total cell clusters per representative 20×field was recorded in the sheath-rinse compared with the brush-wash specimens(median:12 vs 3,P<0.001).This trend persisted when large(>50 cells)clusters(median:8 vs 3,P<0.001),medium(6-49 cells)(median:7 vs 3,P<0.001),and small(2-5 cells)clusters(median:9 vs 3,P<0.001)were evaluated.Diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity for differentiating malignancy were superior with sheath-rinsing than with the brush-wash method(72.3%vs 62.5%,P<0.001 and 69.9%vs 59.2%,P<0.001,respectively).CONCLUSION Incorporating sheath-rinse specimens significantly improved the yield and diagnostic accuracy of biliary brush cytology.Sheath-rinsing should be integrated into routine clinical practice to improve diagnostic performance for biliary strictures.展开更多
Objectives:Academic Evaluation Anxiety is a significant psychological concern among adolescents,with well-documented impacts on academic performance,emotional well-being,and school engagement.In Portugal,recent eviden...Objectives:Academic Evaluation Anxiety is a significant psychological concern among adolescents,with well-documented impacts on academic performance,emotional well-being,and school engagement.In Portugal,recent evidence suggests growing pressure on students to achieve high academic standards,with psychosocial variables such as resilience,perceived support,and school environment playing a crucial role.This study aims to examine the prevalence and psychosocial predictors of Academic Evaluation Anxiety in Portuguese students,and to identify risk and protective factors that inform educational practice.Methods:This cross-sectional,quantitative study analysed data from 3083 students(5th to 12th grade)from the 2024 National Study by the Observatory of Psychological Health and Well-Being.Validated instruments were used,including the Depression,Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 items(DASS-21),the Social and Emotional Skills Scale(SSES),the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children(HBSC)psychological symptoms and well-being indices,the Positive Youth Development(PYD)scale,and the School Environment Scale.Statistical analyses included descriptive measures,one-way ANOVAs,and multivariate linear regression.Results:Academic Evaluation Anxiety was significantly higher among female students(Mean=2.80,SD=0.93)compared to male students(Mean=2.16,SD=1.10),representing approximately 30%higher mean levels of anxiety in girls(F=306.206,p<0.001).Resilience(β=−0.38,p<0.001),self-confidence(β=−0.07,p=0.02),and creativity(β=−0.06,p=0.01)emerged as protective factors,whereas cooperation(β=0.23,p<0.001),teacher relationships(β=0.08,p<0.001),bullying(β=0.07,p<0.001),and school environment(β=0.05,p=0.03)were positively associated with anxiety levels.Conclusions:Academic Evaluation Anxiety is highly prevalent among Portuguese adolescents,with girls reporting significantly higher levels than boys.Resilience,self-confidence,and creativity act as protective factors,while bullying,teacher relationships,cooperation,and negative school climate increase vulnerability.These findings highlight the need for whole-school strategies that strengthen socio-emotional competencies and create psychologically safe learning environments to support both well-being and academic success.展开更多
BACKGROUND Elevated plasma homocysteine(Hcy)levels are associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer(CRC),particularly in patients with systemic inflammation or AIM To evaluate serum Hcy levels as a predictive m...BACKGROUND Elevated plasma homocysteine(Hcy)levels are associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer(CRC),particularly in patients with systemic inflammation or AIM To evaluate serum Hcy levels as a predictive marker of lesion risk and CRC to prioritize patients undergoing diagnostic colonoscopy.METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study of 301 fecal occult blood test-positive patients at San Agustín University Hospital in Asturias,Spain.Plasma Hcy levels were measured prior to the colonoscopy and classified into three thresholds:≤12,12-15,and>15μmol/L.Colonoscopy and histopathology determined the presence of low-risk,high-risk polyps or adenocarcinoma.Predictive performance of serum Hcy to detect lesions was assessed using logistic regression and diagnostic accuracy measures,including models adjusted for age and sex.RESULTS Median Hcy levels rose progressively with lesion severity,reaching 15.3μmol/L in adenocarcinoma(P<0.001).Higher levels were also observed in men and individuals aged 65 or older.A threshold above 15μmol/L showed good sensitivity(76.6%)and positive predictive value(87.2%)for detecting adenocarcinoma.When combined with age and sex,predictive accuracy improved(area under the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.706).Based on these findings,we propose a three-tier triage system:Green(≤12μmol/L in both sexes,colonoscopy within three months),Yellow(>12-15μmol/L in men,intervention within one month and red(≥15 in either sex or>12μmol/L in women,immediate colonoscopy).CONCLUSION Serum Hcy is a clinically useful biomarker for identifying high-risk colorectal lesions and cancer,particularly when interpreted in combination with age and sex.This composite model improves predictive accuracy and enables a structured three-tiered triage system that supports faster colonoscopy scheduling for at-risk groups.The traffic light approach offers a low cost,scalable strategy to reduce delays and optimize resource use in CRC screening,especially in public health systems with limited endoscopic capacity.展开更多
Hypertension disrupts cerebral blood flow,leading to endothelial dysfunction,breakdown of the blood-brain barrier(BBB),and inflammatory cell infiltration.This cascade triggers glial cell activation,increases oxidative...Hypertension disrupts cerebral blood flow,leading to endothelial dysfunction,breakdown of the blood-brain barrier(BBB),and inflammatory cell infiltration.This cascade triggers glial cell activation,increases oxidative stress,and causes pro-inflammatory cytokine release,creating a neurotoxic environment.In this context,we explore the intricate connection between hypertension,neuroinflammation,and neurodegeneration,as well as how hypertension interacts with other metabolic disorders,such as obesity and diabetes,to further worsen neuroinflammation.Additionally,we discuss the role of the reninangiotensin-aldosterone system,the impact of the microbiome,and the potential contribution of chronic infections in exacerbating neuroinflammation.It is essential to emphasize the potential of nanotechnology to transform therapeutic approaches.Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems can enhance the bioavailability and selectivity of antihypertensive drugs,antioxidants,and neuroprotective compounds,enabling targeted delivery across the BBB.By combining effective blood pressure management with nanotechnology-enabled therapies that modulate inflammation,oxidative stress,and protein aggregation,we can explore new avenues for preventing and treating hypertension and metabolic disorder-associated neurodegenerative conditions.Ultimately,hypertension significantly contributes to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration by promoting neuronal cell death,primarily through impaired cerebral blood flow and disruption of the BBB.The interaction of hypertension with metabolic disorders exacerbates these effects.However,advancements in our understanding and new technologies reveal promising nanopharmacological approaches for targeted drug delivery to the brain,thereby improving treatment outcomes,enhancing adherence,and reducing side effects.展开更多
文摘Mortality prediction in respiratory health is challenging,especially when using large-scale clinical datasets composed primarily of categorical variables.Traditional digital twin(DT)frameworks often rely on longi-tudinal or sensor-based data,which are not always available in public health contexts.In this article,we propose a novel proto-DT framework for mortality prediction in respiratory health using a large-scale categorical biomedical dataset.This dataset contains 415,711 severe acute respiratory infection cases from the Brazilian Unified Health System,including both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients.Four classification models—extreme gradient boosting(XGBoost),logistic regression,random forest,and a deep neural network(DNN)—are trained using cost-sensitive learning to address class imbalance.The models are evaluated using accuracy,precision,recall,F1-score,and area under the curve(AUC)related to the receiver operating characteristic(ROC).The framework supports simulated interventions by modifying selected inputs and recalculating predicted mortality.Additionally,we incorporate multiple correspondence analysis and K-means clustering to explore model sensitivity.A Python library has been developed to ensure reproducibility.All models achieve AUC-ROC values near or above 0.85.XGBoost yields the highest accuracy(0.84),while the DNN achieves the highest recall(0.81).Scenario-based simulations reveal how key clinical factors,such as intensive care unit admission and oxygen support,affect predicted outcomes.The proposed proto-DT framework demonstrates the feasibility of mortality prediction and intervention simulation using categorical data alone.This framework provides a foundation for data-driven explainable DTs in public health,even in the absence of time-series data.
文摘In this study,artificial neural networks(ANNs)were implemented to determine design parameters for an impressed current cathodic protection(ICCP)prototype.An ASTM A36 steel plate was tested in 3.5%NaCl solution,seawater,and NS4 using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS)to monitor the evolution of the substrate surface,which affects the current required to reach the protection potential(Eprot).Experimental data were collected as training datasets and analyzed using statistical methods,including box plots and correlation matrices.Subsequently,ANNs were applied to predict the current demand at different exposure times,enabling the estimation of electrochemical parameters(limiting voltage values)that can be used to optimize a self-regulating ICCP system.The obtained electrochemical parameters were then used,through Particle Swarm Optimization(PSO),to fine-tune an ANN-based proportional-integral-derivative(PID)controller for the ICCP system.
基金the German Research Foundation (DFG) under Germany's excellence strategy–EXC 2089/1–390776260, Germany's excellence cluster “e-conversion”the DFG project BA 5795/6-1+2 种基金funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement HERMES No 952184the National Science Foundation (NSF) support through the NSF CAREER award (Grant No. CBET1941204)financial support from TUM Innovation Network for Artificial Intelligence powered Multifunctional Material Design (ARTEMIS).
文摘The effects of seemingly inert alkali metal(AM)cations on the electrocatalytic activity of electrode materials towards reactions essential for energy provision have become the emphasis of substantial research efforts in recent years.The hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions during alkaline water electrolysis and the oxygen electro-reduction taking place in fuel cells are of particular importance.There is no universal theory explaining all the details of the AM cation effect in electrocatalysis.For example,it remains unclear how“spectator”AM-cations can change the kinetics of electrocatalytic reactions often more significantly than the modifications of the elec-trode structure and composition.This situation originates partly from a lack of systematic experimental and theoretical studies of this phenomenon.The present work exploits impedance spectroscopy to investigate the influence of the AM cations on the mechanism of the hydrogen evolution reaction at Pt microelectrodes.The activity follows the trend:Li^(+)≥Na^(+)≥K^(+)≥Cs^(+),where the highest activity corresponds to 0.1 M LiOH electrolytes at low overpotentials.We demonstrate that the nature of the AM cations also changes the relative contribution of the Volmer–Heyrovsky and Volmer–Tafel mechanisms to the overall reaction,with the former being more important for LiOH electrolytes.Our density functional theory-based thermodynamics and molecular dynamics calculations support these findings.
文摘Considering student obesity problem,this study investigated Chilean teachers’behavioral intentions to include two anti-obesity health messages into their classroom teaching activities,which belonged to the“Choose to Live Healthy”campaign.Using the traditional model of the Theory of Planned Behavior(TPB;Ajzen,1985),three research questions were answered:(a)Which of the two messages from the“Choose to Live Healthy”Campaign are known by Chilean schools’teachers?(b)According to the level of knowledge of each message declared by teachers,how do the TPB model and its subcomponents explain teachers’intentions variability to include an anti-obesity message based on the campaign studied in their teaching activities?and(c)Based on the knowledge declared by teachers of the campaign messages,do the TPB model’s subcomponents explain the variability on teachers’intentions to include the anti-obesity content of the campaign message in their teaching activities by types of schools?A total of 245 Chilean teachers were surveyed across three different types of schools.Results from regression analysis confirmed that five of the TPB subcomponents made a fundamental contribution to examine the variability of the theoretical framework upon teachers’behavioral intentions,with the exemption of perceived behavioral control autonomy.This study confirmed the great relevance and effectiveness of the TPB model to contribute to the interpretation of behavioral intentions variability across different types of contexts.Implications for health campaigns are mentioned.
基金funding by project“Use of Digital Information Technologies for Adaptation of the Effects of Climate Change in Touristic Coastal Zones of the Dominican Republic”(ADAPT_CCDR),grant number FED/2020/420-874funded by Harnessing Innovative Technologies to support Resilient Settlements on the Coastal Zones of the Caribbean(HIT RESET CARIBBEAN CARIBBEAN)implement by The University of the West Indies(The UWI),Anton de Kom University of Suriname(AdeKUS)and Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency(CDEMA),sponsored by the ACP-EU Innovation Fund,implemented by the Organization of African,Caribbean and Pacific States(OACPS)Research and Innovation Program,with the financial assistance of the European Union.
文摘Materials used in building envelopes and urban areas contribute significantly to the urban heat island(UHI).In this context,this paper presents a study utilizing infrared thermography(IRT)to assess urban streets and building surface materials in the coastal city of Bayahibe,Dominican Republic.Measurements were conducted in situ in six urban street canyons(Sections A–F)during the warmest and coldest weather conditions.A FLIR T420 thermal camera,FLIR Tools+software,and the emissivity values of common building materials in Bayahibe were used to determine surface temperatures under sunlit and shaded conditions.The findings show that sunlit surfaces of urban elements generally exhibited higher surface temperatures compared to their shaded counterparts in both warm and cold periods.Metal surfaces displayed the most significant surface temperature differences between sunlit and shaded areas.Additionally,light-colored block walls presented lower surface temperatures than medium and dark-colored ones.This research provides insights into the urban microclimate of Bayahibe under different meteorological conditions.It supports the development of strategies to mitigate the UHI effect and enhance pedestrian thermal comfort in tropical and coastal cities by emphasizing the importance of shading elements and light-colored surfaces.The findings can inform specific interventions and policies for creating more sustainable and climate-resilient urban environments in the Caribbean region.
文摘Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the world,with more than 9 million deaths in 2022,a number that continues to rise.This highlights the urgent need for the development of new drugs,with enhanced antitumor capabilities and fewer side effects.Metal-based drugs have been used in clinical practice since the late 1970s,beginning with the introduction of cisplatin.Later,two additional platinum-based molecules,carboplatin,and oxaliplatin,were introduced,and all three continue to be widely used in the treatment of various cancers.However,despite their significant anticancer activity,the undesirable side effects of these drugs have motivated the scientific community to explore other metal-based complexes with greater anticancer potential and fewer adverse effects.In this context,metals such as ruthenium,copper,gold,zinc,palladium,or iridium,present promising alternatives for the development of new anticancer agents.Unfortunately,although thousands of metal-based drugs have been synthesized and tested both in vitro and in animal models,only a few ruthenium-based drugs have entered clinical trials in recent years.Meanwhile,many other molecules with comparable or even greater anticancer potential have not advanced beyond the laboratory stage.In this review,we will revisit the mechanisms of action and anticancer activities of established platinum-based drugs and explore their use in recent clinical trials.Additionally,we will examine the development of potential new metal-based drugs that could one day contribute to cancer treatment worldwide.
文摘The incidence of saphenous vein graft aneurysms(SVGAs)after coronary artery bypass grafting(CABG)is approximately 0.07%;[1]however,the true incidence is likely underreported because of their frequent incidental discovery.[2]Due to its rarity,knowledge mainly comes from case reports and small case series,though some decision algorithms have been proposed in systematic reviews.
文摘In this study,lithium carbonate(Li_(2)CO_(3))sourced from the Salar de Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia was used in the synthesis of cathode active material for Li-ion batteries.X-ray diffraction,atomic absorption spectrometry,and scanning electron microscopy analyses confirmed that the material had a high phase purity(99.59%,battery-grade)and a suitable morphology for active material synthesis,comparable to a similar commercially obtained material.Li[Ni_(1/3)Mn_(1/3)Co_(1/3)]O_(2)(NMC111)was synthesized as a model system using Li_(2)CO_(3) as the precursor and evaluated in full,large-format pouch cells along with three-electrode cells,using commercially relevant active material fractions and mass loadings for meaningful assessment of electrochemical performance.
基金supports were provided by the Concessionária Rodovia do Sol/SA(RodoSol)the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico(CNPq,grant:45.6446/2014/1)+2 种基金the São Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP,Process Number#2024/13237-3)PD received a postdoctoral fellowship from the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior(CAPES,grant:88887.469218/2019-00)CD is grateful to CNPq(Bolsa de Produtividade em Pesquisa,grant:308997/2023-9).
文摘Roads are a leading cause of habitat fragmentation and may reduce bird populations by increasing nest predation rates.However,few studies have investigated the effects of traffic volume on the reproductive success of roadside birds in the neotropics.Our goal was to evaluate the effects of spatial,temporal,and vehicle flow variations on the survival of artificial open-cup nests.The study was carried out in a nature reserve on the side of a highway during the breeding season(from October to March)in two restinga(sand-coastal plain)phytophysiognomies in southeastern Brazil:non-floodable(open)and floodable(closed).One hundred thirty nests were distributed along transects ranging from 3 m to 300 m from the highway in each vegetation type(totaling 260 nests).The nests were checked every three days for their status(depredated or intact)over 12 days,and new nests were subsequently placed near sampling points of depredated or successful nests.We estimated survival using logistic exposure generalized linear and additive mixed models.At the end of the 180 days of the experiment,33%of 6202 nests were successful.Nest survival was higher in open restinga than in closed restinga.In both habitats,nest survival was lowest mid-season and highest at the beginning and end.Survival rates peaked near the highway,declined up to 50 m away,then showed a slight increase.Finally,survival increased at moderate-to-high traffic volumes(∼22,000 vehicles/day),particularly in open restinga.We suggest that spatial,temporal,and habitat-specific highway impacts(e.g.,noise,vibration,visual stimuli)can lead to variations in the activity of nest predators,generating fluctuations in nest survival associated with predator behavior.
基金funded by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development(CNPq).
文摘With a plethora of anthropometric and body composition measurements,may be challenging for soccer technical staff determining the most suitable protocol for their players.Objectives:Therefore,the aim of the study was to analyze the correlations of anthropometric measures and fat percentage obtained by different protocols with the physical performance of male professional soccer players.Additionally,the study aimed to propose cutoff points for anthropometric measures and fat percentage.Methods:Fifty-two male soccer players(24.60±4.98 years)from a state championship’s second division participated.The sum of skinfolds and fat percentage were obtained using four reference protocols(Pollock seven-skinfolds,Jackson and Pollock three-skinfolds,Jackson and Pollock threeskinfolds of the upper limbs,and Faulkner four-skinfolds).Physical performance was assessed by squat jump,counter movement jump,30 cm drop jump,20m sprint,and YoYo intermittent recovery level 1(YoYoIRL1)tests.Pearson,Spearman,and ROC curve analysis were used considering α<0.05 as significance level.Results:Significant correlations occurred between the abdominal skinfold(r=−0.579),chest,abdominal,and front thigh skinfolds sum(rho=−0.518),and the Jackson and Pollock fat percentage protocol using these skinfolds(r=−0.534)with the YoYoIRL1(all p<0.001).Cutoff points for these measurements were determined to be 20mm(area under the curve(AUC)=0.800,sensitivity=92.7%,specificity=63.6%),33mm(AUC=0.783,sensitivity=68.3%,specificity=81.8%),and 13%(AUC=0.787,sensitivity=95.1%,specificity=54.5%),respectively.Conclusions:Therefore,the soccer technical staff can implement these measures,largely associated with physical performance,in players with characteristics similar to the evaluated group.The proposed cut-off points provide a practical alternative for integration into other monitoring strategies.
文摘Bioethics is the argumentative discipline of decisions and actions that reduce conflicts of interest,dilemmas,or asymmetries between the parties involved in biomedical research.The objective of this work was to review and compare the dimensions used by bioethics in the communicative management of the pandemic,namely:risk,vulnerability,resilience,and stigma.A documentary,exploratory,transversal,and retrospective work was carried out with a sample of sources indexed in international repositories,considering the search by keywords and the publication period from 2020 to 2024.The results demonstrate the prevalence of supply,contagion,symptoms,and help against COVID-19.
基金financially supported by Joint Funds of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.U23A20673,U22A20244,and 52478261)Qingchuang Technology Project(No.2021KJ045)+1 种基金the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2024M750580)the Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry(Heilongjiang University),Ministry of Education
文摘Carbon-based sponge materials have attracted massive attention as electromagnetic wave(EMW)absorber candidates due to their lightweight and excellent electromagnetic(EM)attenuation capability.However,the high cost,complex fabrication process and limited EMW absorption bandwidth restrict their application.Herein,a hierarchical threedimensional(3D)cotton derived carbon fibers coated with core–shell structure Fe Ni nanoparticle@porous carbon(CCF/Fe Ni@PC)from MOF precursor were successfully constructed by coprecipitation and one-step pyrolysis methods.By regulating carbonization temperature,optimizing the electromagnetic parameters,outstanding electromagnetic absorption(EMA)performance was achieved.The CCF@Fe Ni/PC synthesized at 900℃demonstrates a-64.5 d B minimum reflection loss(RL_(min))at 15.39 GHz,and the effective absorption bandwidth(EAB)is 5.08 GHz when the thickness is only1.9 mm.Notably,the maximum EAB(EAB_(max))was extended8.18 GHz at 2.96 mm for Fe Ni-800.The excellent microwave absorption performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of enhanced dielectric loss and magnetic loss,good impedance matching as well as hierarchical multiple scattering and reflection of EMWs.The obtained CCF@Fe Ni/PC composites provide a novel and promising strategy for constructing lightweight low-cost efficient microwave absorption materials.
基金National Science Foundation Grant#1822064 to J.Singleton,Fondecyt grant#1230161 to I.del Real,and a Society of Economic Geologists Student Research Grant to N.Seymour supported this work.
文摘Iron oxide-copper–gold(IOCG)deposits encompass a diverse set of mineralization styles,leading to outstanding questions about how different alteration facies are related across a single ore-producing system and the overarching mechanisms of ore genesis.This study investigates the age and characteristics of mineralization at the La Farola deposit,a hematite-dominated IOCG deposit located at the southern margin of the Candelaria-Punta del Cobre IOCG district of northern Chile.Two lithologically-controlled ore bodies occur along the WSW-ENE striking,∼18°NNW-dipping contact between the Lower Cretaceous Chañarcillo Group and Punta del Cobre Formation.Syn-mineralization N-S to NNW-SSE striking sinistral strike-slip faults likely acted as fluid pathways.Distinct mineral assemblages include an early Na-Ca assemblage(albite-scapolite)overprinted by skarnoid garnet with minor pyroxene,Ca-Fe(magnetite-actinolite),and K-Fe(magnetite-k-feldspar-biotite and minor sulfides)assemblages.The main sulfide mineralization(chalcopyrite-pyrite with minor bornite)is associated with specular hematite-white mica-K-feldspar-calcite and overprints all previous assemblages.The presence of hematite as the dominant Fe-oxide phase associated with Cu mineralization is characteristic of lower-temperature IOCG deposits,and may be a result of La Farola’s stratigraphic position<700 m higher than other deposits in the district.New U-Pb ages of 115.7±1.2 Ma for garnet and Re-Os ages of∼113–114 Ma for sulfides indicate mineralization occurred within a 3-million-year timeframe.These findings confirm hematite-dominant mineralization at La Farola was coeval with IOCG mineralization across the district.This research contributes to understanding IOCG systems and their formation mechanisms,highlighting the control local geological structures and alteration processes has on the diversity of mineralization types associated with a single IOCG system.
文摘BACKGROUND The question of whether a colonoscopist should evaluate anal diseases is relevant.Endoscopists need to be aware of the possibility of anal neoplasms during a colonoscopy,as they can be easily overlooked if not properly examined.Specifically,one must clarify the responsibility of the colonoscopist in the diagnosis of anal neoplasms.Anal cancer is relatively rare,accounting for less than 2%of all cases annually.Owing to its rarity,population screening for anal cancer is not indicated,and monitoring is limited to high-risk groups.However,the number of anal cancer cases in high-risk groups has increased over the past four decades worldwide.AIM To assess the results of anal examinations performed during routine colonoscopy and emphasize the importance of diagnosing anal neoplasms.METHODS This was a retrospective study of 16836 patients who were screened by colonoscopy and received a detailed anal examination by videoanoscopy between 2006 and 2024.Among several other findings,the presence of anal neoplasms and suspicious anal cancer lesions was observed.All examinations,including complete anal examination,inspection,digital rectal examination,and videoanoscopy,were performed,and images were recorded and reported.The examinations were individually viewed by the work group,and the findings were analyzed.RESULTS Among the 22676 colonoscopies performed,16836 patients were identified,and 88 lesions suspected of neoplasia(0.52%)were found.Among them,there were 23 cases of neoplasia(0.13%),9 cases of confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal(0.05%),5 cases of adenocarcinoma in the anal canal(0.03%),3 cases of rare neoplasms(0.01%),and 6 cases of adenoma(0.03%).CONCLUSION The systematic performance of anal examinations and anoscopy during routine colonoscopy allows the identification of numerous anal diseases,including incidental cases of anal cancer.
文摘Dry eye disease(DED)is a multifactorial disorder that disturbs ocular surface equilibrium,considerably diminishing quality of life.Present therapies only offer symptomatic alleviation.Stem cell treatment,especially mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs),has surfaced as a viable approach for tissue regeneration and immunological regulation in DED.Preclinical and early clinical investigations indicate that MSCs can improve lacrimal gland functionality,diminish inflammation,and facilitate corneal regeneration.Nonetheless,obstacles persist in enhancing MSC viability,determining the optimal MSC source,and guaranteeing sustained therapeutic effectiveness.Additional extensive randomized clinical trials are required to confirm the efficacy of MSC-based therapies for severe DED.
基金supported by the Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas(CONICET)and the Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica(Nos.PICT 2018-1889 and PICT 2019-01805)of Argentina and the United Nations University Biotechnology Programme for Latin America and the Caribbean(UNU-BIOLAC).
文摘Bioremediation is an eco-friendly alternative for soil restoration.However,its outcomes are still variable.Different bioremediation strategies were used in a chronically polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon(PAH)-contaminated soil,and no degradation was achieved.This work attempts to study whether the soil bacterial community has the genetic potential for aromatic compound degradation(ACD).While 16S rRNA metabarcoding of that soil showed a predominance of Proteobacteria,shotgun metagenomics indicated that 99.5%of the sequences were taxonomically assigned to Streptomycetales,and almost all genes related to ACD were assigned to the latter.As comprehension of the composition and metabolic potential of a soil community can be enhanced by exploring enrichment cultures of that soil,a culture approach followed by a shotgun metagenomic analysis was performed.These enrichment cultures were obtained by sequential transfers with pyrene conducted every 7(r-EFP)and 28(k-MSP2)d.Both r-EFP and k-MSP2 demonstrated the ability to degrade pyrene and the presence of genes related to ACD.While Pseudomonas and Olivibacter were the predominant genera in r-EFP,Mycobacterium,Chitoniphaga,Bacillus,and Pseudoxanthomonas were predominant in k-MSP2.This study demonstrated the soil bacterial community's potential to degrade PAHs of three and four rings.Therefore,exploration of bioremediation strategies aimed at activating this potential would be worthwhile.It was confirmed that shotgun metagenomics may not fully reveal potential bacterial functions when characterizing impacted soil microbiomes.Additionally,culture-based methods complemented and increased the knowledge obtained from culture-independent approaches,demonstrating their utility for bioprospecting PAH degraders and designing microbiome engineering strategies.
基金Supported by The Catholic Medical Center Research Foundation Made in The Program Year of 2022.
文摘BACKGROUND Brush cytology is the most commonly used technique for tissue acquisition during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for the evaluation of biliary strictures.Nonetheless,brush cytology is limited by its low sensitivity due to insufficient cellular yield.AIM To evaluate the impact of the sheath-rinse technique on improving the cellularity yield.METHODS A total of 112 patients with suspected malignant biliary strictures were enrolled at two tertiary centers in South Korea.The sample cellularity and diagnostic accuracy of brush-wash and sheath-rinse specimens were compared.RESULTS A significantly increased number of total cell clusters per representative 20×field was recorded in the sheath-rinse compared with the brush-wash specimens(median:12 vs 3,P<0.001).This trend persisted when large(>50 cells)clusters(median:8 vs 3,P<0.001),medium(6-49 cells)(median:7 vs 3,P<0.001),and small(2-5 cells)clusters(median:9 vs 3,P<0.001)were evaluated.Diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity for differentiating malignancy were superior with sheath-rinsing than with the brush-wash method(72.3%vs 62.5%,P<0.001 and 69.9%vs 59.2%,P<0.001,respectively).CONCLUSION Incorporating sheath-rinse specimens significantly improved the yield and diagnostic accuracy of biliary brush cytology.Sheath-rinsing should be integrated into routine clinical practice to improve diagnostic performance for biliary strictures.
文摘Objectives:Academic Evaluation Anxiety is a significant psychological concern among adolescents,with well-documented impacts on academic performance,emotional well-being,and school engagement.In Portugal,recent evidence suggests growing pressure on students to achieve high academic standards,with psychosocial variables such as resilience,perceived support,and school environment playing a crucial role.This study aims to examine the prevalence and psychosocial predictors of Academic Evaluation Anxiety in Portuguese students,and to identify risk and protective factors that inform educational practice.Methods:This cross-sectional,quantitative study analysed data from 3083 students(5th to 12th grade)from the 2024 National Study by the Observatory of Psychological Health and Well-Being.Validated instruments were used,including the Depression,Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 items(DASS-21),the Social and Emotional Skills Scale(SSES),the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children(HBSC)psychological symptoms and well-being indices,the Positive Youth Development(PYD)scale,and the School Environment Scale.Statistical analyses included descriptive measures,one-way ANOVAs,and multivariate linear regression.Results:Academic Evaluation Anxiety was significantly higher among female students(Mean=2.80,SD=0.93)compared to male students(Mean=2.16,SD=1.10),representing approximately 30%higher mean levels of anxiety in girls(F=306.206,p<0.001).Resilience(β=−0.38,p<0.001),self-confidence(β=−0.07,p=0.02),and creativity(β=−0.06,p=0.01)emerged as protective factors,whereas cooperation(β=0.23,p<0.001),teacher relationships(β=0.08,p<0.001),bullying(β=0.07,p<0.001),and school environment(β=0.05,p=0.03)were positively associated with anxiety levels.Conclusions:Academic Evaluation Anxiety is highly prevalent among Portuguese adolescents,with girls reporting significantly higher levels than boys.Resilience,self-confidence,and creativity act as protective factors,while bullying,teacher relationships,cooperation,and negative school climate increase vulnerability.These findings highlight the need for whole-school strategies that strengthen socio-emotional competencies and create psychologically safe learning environments to support both well-being and academic success.
文摘BACKGROUND Elevated plasma homocysteine(Hcy)levels are associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer(CRC),particularly in patients with systemic inflammation or AIM To evaluate serum Hcy levels as a predictive marker of lesion risk and CRC to prioritize patients undergoing diagnostic colonoscopy.METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study of 301 fecal occult blood test-positive patients at San Agustín University Hospital in Asturias,Spain.Plasma Hcy levels were measured prior to the colonoscopy and classified into three thresholds:≤12,12-15,and>15μmol/L.Colonoscopy and histopathology determined the presence of low-risk,high-risk polyps or adenocarcinoma.Predictive performance of serum Hcy to detect lesions was assessed using logistic regression and diagnostic accuracy measures,including models adjusted for age and sex.RESULTS Median Hcy levels rose progressively with lesion severity,reaching 15.3μmol/L in adenocarcinoma(P<0.001).Higher levels were also observed in men and individuals aged 65 or older.A threshold above 15μmol/L showed good sensitivity(76.6%)and positive predictive value(87.2%)for detecting adenocarcinoma.When combined with age and sex,predictive accuracy improved(area under the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.706).Based on these findings,we propose a three-tier triage system:Green(≤12μmol/L in both sexes,colonoscopy within three months),Yellow(>12-15μmol/L in men,intervention within one month and red(≥15 in either sex or>12μmol/L in women,immediate colonoscopy).CONCLUSION Serum Hcy is a clinically useful biomarker for identifying high-risk colorectal lesions and cancer,particularly when interpreted in combination with age and sex.This composite model improves predictive accuracy and enables a structured three-tiered triage system that supports faster colonoscopy scheduling for at-risk groups.The traffic light approach offers a low cost,scalable strategy to reduce delays and optimize resource use in CRC screening,especially in public health systems with limited endoscopic capacity.
基金Supported by Agencia Nacional de Promoción de la Investigación,el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación,No.PICT 2020 Serie A 4000.
文摘Hypertension disrupts cerebral blood flow,leading to endothelial dysfunction,breakdown of the blood-brain barrier(BBB),and inflammatory cell infiltration.This cascade triggers glial cell activation,increases oxidative stress,and causes pro-inflammatory cytokine release,creating a neurotoxic environment.In this context,we explore the intricate connection between hypertension,neuroinflammation,and neurodegeneration,as well as how hypertension interacts with other metabolic disorders,such as obesity and diabetes,to further worsen neuroinflammation.Additionally,we discuss the role of the reninangiotensin-aldosterone system,the impact of the microbiome,and the potential contribution of chronic infections in exacerbating neuroinflammation.It is essential to emphasize the potential of nanotechnology to transform therapeutic approaches.Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems can enhance the bioavailability and selectivity of antihypertensive drugs,antioxidants,and neuroprotective compounds,enabling targeted delivery across the BBB.By combining effective blood pressure management with nanotechnology-enabled therapies that modulate inflammation,oxidative stress,and protein aggregation,we can explore new avenues for preventing and treating hypertension and metabolic disorder-associated neurodegenerative conditions.Ultimately,hypertension significantly contributes to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration by promoting neuronal cell death,primarily through impaired cerebral blood flow and disruption of the BBB.The interaction of hypertension with metabolic disorders exacerbates these effects.However,advancements in our understanding and new technologies reveal promising nanopharmacological approaches for targeted drug delivery to the brain,thereby improving treatment outcomes,enhancing adherence,and reducing side effects.
