Search

Objective: To investigate the association between interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and total oral fluid (TOF) and the responsiveness to steps 1 and 2 of periodontal therapy. Materials and Methods: One‐hundred and fifty‐nine patients affected by periodontitis received steps 1 and 2 of periodontal therapy. At baseline, TOF and GCF samples were collected and analysed for IL‐8 (Il‐8TOF/IL‐8GCF) using flow cytometry. Therapy outcomes were relative proportions of residual periodontal pockets (PPD%), pocket closure (PC) rates and pocket probing depth (PPD) reductions; these were associated with IL‐8TOF/IL‐8GCF. Results: High IL‐8TOF was significantly associated with higher residual PPD% (p = 0.044) and lower PPD reduction compared to low IL‐8TOF (high 0.79 ± 1.20 mm vs. low 1.20 ± 1.20 mm, p < 0.001) in non‐smokers, while in smokers high IL‐8GCF was related to lower PPD reduction (high 0.62 ± 1.22 mm vs. low 0.84 ± 1.12 mm, p = 0.009). Furthermore, high baseline IL‐8TOF was significantly associated with poorer PC rates compared to medium and low concentrations in both non‐smokers (high 41% vs. medium 55% vs. low 58%, p < 0.001) and smokers (high 34% vs. medium 44% vs. low 46%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: High IL‐8 concentrations at baseline had a significant impact on residual PPD%, PC rates and PPD reduction. The findings suggest that, especially in non‐smokers, baseline IL‐8 levels collected from the TOF could serve as a component in the estimation of responsiveness to steps 1 and 2 of periodontal therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inference of body fluids and tissues is critical in reconstructing crime scenes and inferring criminal behaviors. Nevertheless, present methods are incompatible with conventional DNA genotyping, and additional testing might result in excessive consumption of forensic scene materials. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of distinguishing common body fluids/tissues through the difference in mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn). Four types of body fluids/tissues were analyzed in this study - hair, saliva, semen, and skeletal muscle. MtDNAcn was estimated by dividing the read counts of mitochondrial DNA to that of nuclear DNA (RRmt/nu). Results indicated that there were significant differences in RRmt/nu between different body fluids/tissues. Specifically, hair samples exhibited the highest RRmt/nu (log10RRmt/nu: 4.3 ± 0.28), while semen samples showed the lowest RRmt/nu (log10RRmt/nu: -0.1 ± 0.28). RRmt/nu values for DNA samples without extraction were notably higher (approximately 2.9 times) than those obtained after extraction. However, no significant difference in RRmt/nu was observed between various age and gender groups. Hierarchical clustering and Kmeans clustering analyses showed that body fluids/tissues of the same type clustered closely to each other and could be inferred with high accuracy. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the simultaneous detection of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA made it possible to perform conventional DNA analyses and body fluid/tissue inference at the same time, thus killing two birds with one stone. Furthermore, mtDNAcn has the potential to serve as a novel and promising biomarker for the identification of body fluids/tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern criminal investigations heavily rely on trace bodily fluid evidence as a rich source of DNA. DNA profiling of such evidence can result in the identification of an individual if a matching DNA profile is available. Alternatively, phenotypic profiling based on the analysis of body fluid traces can significantly narrow down the pool of suspects in a criminal investigation. Urine stain is a frequently encountered specimen at the scene of crime. Raman spectroscopy offers great potential as a universal confirmatory method for the identification of all main body fluids, including urine. In this proof-of-concept study, Raman spectroscopy combined with advanced statistics was used for race differentiation based on the analysis of urine stains. Specifically, a Random Forest (RF) model was built, which allowed for differentiating Caucasian (CA) and African American (AA) descent donors with 90% accuracy based on Raman spectra of dried urine samples. Raman spectra were collected from samples of 28 donors varying in age and sex. This novel technology offers great potential as a universal forensic tool for phenotypic profiling of a potential suspect immediately at the scene of a crime, providing invaluable information for a criminal investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive Candida infections represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), particularly among preterm and low birth weight neonates. The nonspecific clinical presentation of invasive candidiasis, resembling that of bacterial sepsis with multiorgan involvement, makes the diagnosis challenging. Given the atypical clinical presentation and the potential detrimental effects of delayed treatment, empirical treatment is often initiated in cases with high clinical suspicion. This underscores the need to develop alternative laboratory methods other than cultures, which are known to have low sensitivity and a prolonged detection time, to optimize therapeutic strategies. Serum biomarkers, including mannan antigen/anti-mannan antibody and 1,3-β-D-glucan (BDG), both components of the yeast cell wall, a nano-diagnostic method utilizing T2 magnetic resonance, and Candida DNA detection by PCR-based techniques have been investigated as adjuncts to body fluid cultures and have shown promising results in improving diagnostic efficacy and shortening detection time in neonatal populations. This review aims to provide an overview of the diagnostic tools and the current management strategies for invasive candidiasis in neonates. Timely and accurate diagnosis followed by targeted antifungal treatment can significantly improve the survival and outcome of neonates affected by Candida species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Currently, the majority of methods to monitor cancer treatment through the analysis of body fluids are based on a highly selective detection of single molecules or cells. In this study, we are considering the analysis of the aqueous medium of liquid samples, that is, water, itself, using aquaphotomics and near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIR) for spectral data acquisition and processing, within cancer research. Water, as a molecular system, is a rich source of information about the current state of a patient, which can be extracted from near‐infrared spectra of liquid samples via simple algorithms based on multivariate data analysis. The reported results, obtained ex vivo of body fluids, demonstrate the potential of aquaphotomics in cancer research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myxedema is a potentially life-threatening condition typically observed in severe hypothyroidism. However, localized or diffuse myxedema is also observed in hyperthyroidism. The exact cause and mechanism of this paradoxical situation is not clear. We report here the analysis of body fluid distribution by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in 103 thyroid patients, subdivided according to their functional status. All BIA parameters measured in subclinical thyroid dysfunctions did not significantly differ from those observed in euthyroid controls. On the contrary, they were clearly altered in the two extreme, opposite conditions of thyroid dysfunctions, namely overt hyperthyroidism and severe hypothyroidism, indicating the occurrence of a typical hormetic condition. Surprisingly, differences in BIA parameters related to fluid body composition were even more evident in hyperthyroidism than in hypothyroidism. A hormetic response to thyroid hormone (TH)s was previously reported to explain the paradoxical, biphasic, time- and dose-dependent effects on other conditions. Our results indicate that myxedema, observed in both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid conditions, represents another example of a hormetic-type response to THs. BIA offers no additional valuable information in evaluating fluid body composition in subclinical thyroid dysfunctions, but it represents a valuable method to analyze and monitor body fluid composition and distribution in overt and severe thyroid dysfunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Bronchoalveolar lavage is commonly used in clinical practice for unresolved pneumonia. However, bronchoalveolar lavage is not suitable for all patients as it is an invasive procedure and can worsen oxygenation. The diagnostic value of bronchial wash and sputum has been debated extensively over the years. In this study, we aim to compare the diagnostic value in several pathogens of bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchial wash, and secondarily bronchoalveolar lavage and sputum. Methods: We retrospectively included all adult patients in our hospital who underwent bronchoalveolar lavage, bronchial wash, and where sputum sampling was done between January 1st of 2018 and December 31st of 2021. The intraclass correlation coefficient was computed for the three tests. Results: In total, 308 patients were included. We found a level of correlation of 0.819 and 0.865, respectively, between bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchial wash for two pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Aspergillus fumigatus, we found an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.568 and 0.624, respectively. Between bronchoalveolar lavage and sputum, we found varying levels of agreement. Conclusion: Our study shows reasonably well agreement levels between bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchial wash, suggesting that bronchial wash could potentially be an alternative to bronchoalveolar lavage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of substances and samples obtained from a crime scene is very important in solving forensic cases. To determine the variables involved in a crime and to expedite the investigation process, the rapid analysis of body fluids in small quantities and within environments containing diverse components is particularly necessary. For this reason, it is of great importance to analyze biological fluids with rapid, noncontaminating, nondestructive, low-cost, and accurate techniques. In recent years, with advancements in laser technology, spectroscopic methods have been introduced as analytical techniques in forensic medicine and chemical studies. This study focuses on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to demonstrate the detection of blood samples in simulated crime scenes. To minimize the background signal from fluorescent biomolecules in blood, dilution was performed with two different components and Raman analysis was performed for four different concentrations of blood. In general, a decrease in noise in the spectra was observed as the blood was diluted. Crime scenes consisting of pure blood, blood diluted with ethanol and distilled water (1:2, 1:4, and 1:8), a blood--mineral water mixture, a blood--cherry juice mixture, and silver nanoparticle-added mixtures were simulated, and their spectra were examined. Chemometric analyses of the data were performed. Despite high noise and low peak intensities, blood-identifying signals were detected when examining different blood concentrations. It was observed that silver nanoparticles provided high enhancement of blood peaks thanks to their strong plasmonic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Small chest drains are used in many centers as the default drainage strategy for various pleural effusions. This can lead to drain overuse, which may be harmful. This study aimed to reduce chest drain overuse. Methods: We studied consecutive pleural procedures performed in the radiology department before (August 1, 2015, to July 31, 2016) and after intervention (September 1, 2019, to January 31, 2020). Chest drains were deemed indicated or not based on criteria established by a local interdisciplinary work group. The intervention consisted of a pleural drainage order set embedded in electronic medical records. It included indications for chest drain insertion, prespecified drain sizes for each indication, fluid analyses, and postprocedure radiography orders. Overall chest drain use and proportion of nonindicated drains were the outcomes of interest. Results: We reviewed a total of 288 procedures (pre-intervention) and 155 procedures (post-intervention) (thoracentesis and drains). Orderset implementation led to a reduction in drain use (86.5% vs 54.8% of all procedures, P < .001) and reduction in drain insertions in the absence of an indication (from 45.4% to 29.4% of drains, P = .01). The need for repeat procedures did not increase after order-set implementation (22.0% pre vs 17.7% post, P = .40). Complication rates and length of hospital stay did not differ significantly after the intervention. More pleural infections were treated with drain sizes of 12Fr and greater (31 vs 70%, P < .001) after order-set deployment, and direct procedural costs were reduced by 27 CAN$ per procedure. Conclusion: Implementation of a pleural drainage order-set reduced chest drain use, improved procedure selection according to clinical needs, and reduced direct procedural costs. In institutions where small chest drains are used as the default drainage strategy for pleural effusions, this order set can reduce chest drain overuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Lung cancer has the highest cancer-related mortality rate worldwide. Research has been conducted to improve early detection and markers of predictive value but only focused on the expression of syndecan-4 (SDC4) in serum. Studies in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are still limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical value of SDC4 in serum and BAL in NSCLC patients. METHODS Blood serum and BAL fluids were obtained from 44 patients with NSCLC and 41 non-cancer patients as the control. The level of SDC4 was measured. The relationships between SDC4 and clinicopathologic factors were also analyzed. RESULTS Serum SDC4 levels in NSCLC patients were significantly lower than the control group (p = 0.002). Furthermore, the disease stages and serum SDC4 levels had a negative correlation, which was lower in the advanced stage (IIIb/IV) than in the initial stage (I/II/IIIa) (p = 0.517). The same results were obtained from BAL fluids SDC4 levels, which were significantly lower in the advanced stage (IIIb/IV) than in the early stage (I/ II/IIIa) (p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS Serum SDC4 levels in NSCLC patients were lower than those of noncancer patients. They also performed different results in disease stages. SDC4 could be a helpful biomarker in NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fact that DNA cannot be used for identification in some cases due to the small amount of sample or degradation due to environmental conditions increases the importance of RNA. In this direction, studies are carried out on the use of miRNA markers in the detection of body fluids in forensic sciences. The focus of the study is the identification of the miRNA biomarkers hsa-miR-203a-3p and hsa-miR-451a, especially in bloodstains exposed to environmental conditions. The samples that were created by the modeling method were kept in different environmental conditions for 45 days and then miRNA markers were investigated. As a result of the analysis, hsa-miR-451a expression was observed in the samples kept at -20°C and +4°C and in sealed bags, while hsa-miR-203a-3p expression was not observed. This study proposes the use of RNA and especially miRNA instead of DNA in forensic sciences. In conclusion, this study points to the importance of using miRNA profiling in forensic science. In particular, the identification of bloodstains taken from the crime scene and exposed to various environmental conditions with the miRNA biomarker hsa-miR-451a may be an important step in future forensic science applications. Since this study was carried out as a master's thesis, it was studied with a small sample group, and the results were intended to form a basis for future studies. Increasing diversity with larger sample groups in future studies is scientifically valuable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid biopsy is regarded as a promising strategy for assisting precision medicine because of its convenience, noninvasiveness, and ability to overcome tumor heterogeneity and achieve early detection. Recently, impressive advancements in plasmonic biosensors, artificial intelligence, and portable Raman equipment have yielded unprecedented progress in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)–based point‐of‐care testing (POCT) systems for liquid biopsy. The development of these systems presents a paradigm shift in on‐site liquid biopsy applications by leveraging the unique benefits of efficiency, fast analysis, portability, affordability, and user‐friendliness. Herein, these advances are introduced over the last 3 years in the field of SERS‐based POCT systems for labeled and label‐free biomarker analysis in body fluids, including tumor circulating proteins and cells, exosomes, micro‐RNA, and circulating tumor DNA. Additionally, powerful machine learning algorithms (including deep learning algorithms) are integrated with SERS to effectively extract potential data features and generate precise diagnostic models. The review highlights the use of handheld and portable Raman devices in significantly promoting the application of SERS‐based POCT in clinical scenarios. Finally, the review outlines the challenges and future perspectives of this technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on the latest developments in the characterization of liver abnormalities using infrared (IR) or Fourier transform IR spectroscopy and microspectroscopy. Results from preclinical and clinical studies show that these technological advances hold potential for the identification and characterization of liver abnormalities, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), fibrosis, and tumors, through analysis of body fluids or liver tissues. The review also discusses the potential of hyperspectral IR microscopy for liver spectropathology and identifies key factors that would facilitate the translation of this promising research into clinical applications, particularly in the field of liver transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The "International System of Reporting Serous Fluid Cytology (TIS)" together with cytomorphology promotes the use of ancillary techniques to resolve difficulties in reporting serous fluid cytology. Objective: To classify serous effusion fluid samples received at our department in line with "TIS", indicating the risk of malignancy (ROM), and directing appropriate usage of ancillary testing. Materials and Methods: Prospective study carried out from October 2021 to September 2022. The study included all pleural, ascitic, and pericardial fluid samples, reported according to 'TIS'. Flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry were ancillary methods utilized to assist in reporting. Cases with available history and convincing correlations didn't require further assessment. Results: A total of 1200 serous effusion samples were evaluated including 604 pleural, 591 ascitic, and 5 pericardial fluid samples. After categorization, there were 23 samples in non-diagnostic (ND, 1.9%), 575 in negative for malignancy (NFM, 47.91%), 44 in atypia of undetermined significance (AUS, 3.66%), 64 in suspicious for malignancy (SFM, 5.33%), and 494 in malignant category (MAL, 41.16%). Ancillary studies were beneficial in the recategorization of 26% (11/44) AUS cases, 29.6% (19/64) SFM cases, and it helped refine tumor characteristics in 35.42% (175/494) cases categorized as malignant. Final ROM calculated for each category: ND 25%, NFM 18.6%, AUS 66.6%, SFM 88%, and MAL 100%. Conclusion: Serous fluid is an easily obtainable sample that can provide opportunities for ancillary testing with clinical implications. In AUS and suspicious category although, diagnostic yield is increased however, a larger number of cases are required to obtain definite results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs), mainly located in the cell membrane, play various roles in cancer cell function. GSLs have potential as renal cell carcinoma (RCC) biomarkers; however, their analysis in body fluids is challenging because of the complexity of numerous glycans and ceramides. Therefore, we applied wide-targeted lipidomics using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) with selected reaction monitoring (SRM) based on theoretical mass to perform a comprehensive measurement of GSLs and evaluate their potency as urinary biomarkers. In semi-quantitative lipidomics, 240 SRM transitions were set based on the reported/speculated structures. We verified the feasibility of measuring GSLs in cells and medium and found that disialosyl globopentaosylceramide (DSGb5 (d18:1/16:0)) increased GSL in the ACHN medium. LC–MS/MS analysis of urine samples from clear cell RCC (ccRCC) patients and healthy controls showed a significant increase in the peak intensity of urinary DSGb5 (d18:1/16:0) in the ccRCC group compared with that in the control group. Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that urinary DSGb5 could serve as a sensitive and specific marker for RCC screening, with an AUC of 0.89. This study demonstrated the possibility of urinary screening using DSGb5 (d18:1/16:0). In conclusion, urinary DSGb5 (d18:1/16:0) was a potential biomarker for cancer screening, which could contribute to the treatment of RCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculous peritonitis is a form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, a peritoneal or visceral inflammation caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The disease is rarely independent but is usually a continuation of the tuberculosis process elsewhere, especially pulmonary tuberculosis. We report a case of TB peritonitis accompanied by TB pleurisy, a 29-year-old female patient with complaints of an enlarged abdomen, heartburn, fever, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Treatment history was Acitral, Zinc, and Metronidazole. On physical examination, it was found that the general condition was weak, and the axilla temperature was 39.5°C. Thorax examination: decreased vesicular sound on the left chest. Abdominal examination found distension, epigastric tenderness, undulation, shifting dullness, checkerboard phenomenon, and increased bowel noise. Laboratory examination of complete blood within normal limits. Complete stool; yellow color, mucus (+), leukocytes 4-6/LPB, bacteria (+). The thorax photo showed left pleural effusion, BOF 3 position: ascites. Abdominal ultrasound results: thickening of the peritoneum, ascites, suspected TB peritonitis. Results of ascites and pleural fluid analysis: rivalta (+) and Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) increased. From anamnesis, physical examination and supporting examination can be established to diagnose TB peritonitis and TB pleuritis, followed by OAT therapy and FDC for 12 months. From this case, it can be concluded that clinical and supporting examinations (radiology) are needed to diagnose correctly, and body fluid analysis examinations can help confirm the diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The impact of disorders of fluid balance, including the pathologic state of fluid overload in sick children has become increasingly apparent. With this understanding, there has been a shift from application of absolute thresholds of fluid accumulation to an appreciation of the intricacies of fluid balance, including the impact of timing, trajectory, and disease pathophysiology. Methods: The 26th Acute Disease Quality Initiative was the first to be exclusively dedicated to pediatric and neonatal acute kidney injury (pADQI). As part of the consensus panel, a multidisciplinary working group dedicated to fluid balance, fluid accumulation, and fluid overload was created. Through a search, review, and appraisal of the literature, summative consensus statements, along with identification of knowledge gaps and recommendations for clinical practice and research were developed. Conclusions: The 26th pADQI conference proposed harmonized terminology for fluid balance and for describing a pathologic state of fluid overload for clinical practice and research. Recommendations include that the terms daily fluid balance, cumulative fluid balance, and percent cumulative fluid balance be utilized to describe the fluid status of sick children. The term fluid overload is to be preserved for describing a pathologic state of positive fluid balance associated with adverse events. Several recommendations for research were proposed including focused validation of the definition of fluid balance, fluid overload, and proposed methodologic approaches and endpoints for clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cytological analysis of body fluids has become an important part of the diagnosis and management of patients. The examination of fluids can categorize the fluids into inflammatory and neoplastic. Material and Methods: This research is a hospital-based observational study of one year, beginning in July 2022 and ending in June 2023. A total of 200 cases were studied in the Central Laboratory, SIMS, Hapur, UP. Result: Out of 200 cases, the most common fluid was peritoneal fluid, followed by pleural fluid. There was a male predominance in the study. The mean age was 45 ± 15 years The most common cause of the benign ascitic effusion was alcoholic liver disease and commonest malignancy was metastatic adenocarcinoma The commonest cause of pleural effusion was tuberculosis. Conclusion: The study of body fluids is a routine diagnostic test that offers a cheap and rapid diagnosis, which aids clinicians in treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health-related nutritional human studies rely on the validity of dietary data provided by study participants. Reliable biomarkers for food intake help objectify data collected by food frequency questionnaires. They facilitate the monitoring of compliance with the study requirements, e.g., abstinence from food, help clean biased data, and remove non-compliant individuals. Biomarker candidates are often revealed by sophisticated metabolomics analyses of body fluids, e.g., urine or plasma, collected from case and control study populations. However, validation for using a biomarker candidate in real-life scenarios is seldomly executed. Coffee is a food item of high interest because of the abundance of bioactive compounds and the regularity of life-time consumption by a large part of the population. Coffee has been found to positively impact cardiovascular risk, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive decline. Coffee and its health implications, therefore, are of high interest. A suitable dietary biomarker for coffee consumption is desirable for the clear classification of study participants as coffee drinkers or non-coffee drinkers to enable correlation of physiological response to dietary habits, e.g., coffee consumption. Here, we propose the roast coffee compound N-methylpyridinium (NMP) as a promising biomarker of pragmatic use to distinguish a coffee drinker from a non-coffee drinker. NMP is an easily accessible analytical target from the plasma and urine matrix that can help determine precedent exposure to roasted coffee products. We review the published information on the coffee compound N-methylpyridinium in foods, coffee, and plasma/urine after coffee consumption, and evaluate the data in the context of the proposed food biomarker criteria "plausibility", "time- and dose–response", "robustness", "reliability", "stability", "analytical performance", and "reproducibility". An additional data set is acquired to fill the gaps in the literature. In summary, we conclude that the abundance of NMP can serve as a reliable analytical tool to verify recent consumption of roasted coffee. The use of NMP appears limited to being qualitative, as NMP abundance in coffee and human biosamples is affected by several parameters, e.g., the roasting conditions and the volume and time of coffee consumed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Atellica Hema (Siemens Healthineers, Tarrytown, NY, USA) is a new generation multi‐parameter analyzer for full blood count, 6‐part differential and reticulocyte testing by impedance variation and fluorescence flow cytometry. In this study, we verified the whole blood and limited body fluid modes of the Atellica Hema 580. Methods: We evaluated precision, linearity, carry‐over, throughput and performed a method comparison to assess the performance of the Atellica Hema 580. For comparison of the Atellica Hema 580 with the Sysmex XN‐1000 (Sysmex, Kobe, Japan), 140 samples from adult and pediatric patients including both normal and abnormal hematology profiles were analyzed in parallel. Results: The Atellica Hema 580 demonstrated acceptable imprecision within the manufacturer's specifications for whole blood and body fluid modes, good linearity for high and low ranges and no significant carryover. The full blood count, differential and reticulocyte correlated well with the Sysmex XN‐1000, except for mean cell hemoglobin concentration, basophil and large immature cells. The optical platelet count, reflexed in 34 samples with a platelet count <150 × 109/l, showed a strong correlation with the fluorescent platelet count on the Sysmex XN‐1000. The morphology flagging efficiency was 92% for white blood cells, 95% for red blood cells and 87% for platelets. Conclusion: The Atellica Hema 580 showed good analytical performance and workflow efficiency for a wide range of patient samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is a biologically active protein and increased levels are associated with worse outcomes in critically ill patients. suPAR in bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) may be helpful to differentiate between types of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and may have potential for early detection of fungal infection. Methods: We prospectively investigated levels of suPAR in BALF and serum in critically ill patients who underwent bronchoscopy for any reason at the ICU of the Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria. Results: Seventy-five patients were available for analyses. Median age was 60 [25th–75th percentile: 50–69] years, 27% were female, and median SOFA score was 12 [11–14] points. Serum suPAR levels were significantly associated with ICU mortality in univariable logistic regression analysis. There was no correlation between BALF and serum suPAR. Serum suPAR was higher in ARDS patients at 11.2 [8.0–17.2] ng/mL compared to those without ARDS at 7.1 [3.7–10.1] (p < 0.001). BALF-suPAR was significantly higher in patients with evidence of fungal lung infection compared to patients without fungal infection both in the general cohort (7.6 [3.2–9.4] vs 2.5 [1.1–5.3], p = 0.013) and in the subgroup of ARDS (7.2 [3.1–39.2] vs 2.5 [1.0–5.2], p = 0.022). All patients were classified as putative/probable invasive aspergillosis. Conclusion: We found significant higher levels of serum suPAR in ARDS patients compared to those not fulfilling ARDS criteria. Serum and BALF-suPAR were significantly higher in those patients with evidence for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. These findings may suggest testing this biomarker for early diagnosis of fungal infection in a greater cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Amino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins and play a crucial role in various cellular functions, such as protein metabolism/catabolism pathways and redox signaling. They are also vital in normal and cancer metabolism. The concentrations of amino acids in blood, urine, and tissue samples of cancer patients differ from those of healthy individuals. These differences can be used for cancer screening, monitoring treatment response, and predicting tumor prognosis. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common and deadly cancers. This review aims to gather reported amino acid abnormalities in blood, urine, and tissue samples of CRC patients and how these abnormalities can be used as potential tools in the multifold management of CRC, including screening, establishing cancer prognosis, and monitoring treatment response. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and essential players in pathways such as the citric acid and urea cycle, purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis, and redox cell signaling. Therefore, it is unsurprising that these molecules have a significant role in cancer metabolism and its metabolic plasticity. As one of the most prevalent malign diseases, colorectal cancer needs biomarkers for its early detection, prognostic, and prediction of response to therapy. However, the available biomarkers for this disease must be more powerful and present several drawbacks, such as high costs and complex laboratory procedures. Metabolomics has gathered substantial attention in the past two decades as a screening platform to study new metabolites, partly due to the development of techniques, such as mass spectrometry or liquid chromatography, which have become standard practice in diagnostic procedures for other diseases. Extensive metabolomic studies have been performed in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients in the past years, and several exciting results concerning amino acid metabolism have been found. This review aims to gather and present findings concerning alterations in the amino acid plasma pool of colorectal cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The cytological analysis of body fluids is the preliminary investigation performed for the diagnostic evaluation of body fluids, helping the physician make the diagnosis and plan proper treatment. The International System for Reporting Serous Fluid Cytology (ISFRSFC) was created using best international practises, current literature and expert consensus to make a uniform reporting system for serous fluids. Aims: The present study was conducted with the aim of recategorising the effusion fluids as per the guidelines prescribed by ISRFRC, knowing the distribution of cases into various categories and assessing their feasibility in day-to-day reporting. Patients and Methods: This study was performed on serous fluids (ascitic, pleural, peritoneal and pericardial) received over a period of 5 years, from January 2017 to April 2022, in the cytology unit of the Department of Pathology, ABVIMS, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi. Wherever possible, clinicoradiological and histopathological data were obtained and correlated with cytological findings. Serous fluids were categorised into reporting formats as prescribed by ISRFRC and its feasibility was assessed in day-to-day reporting. Results: A total of 1115 cases of serous effusion fluid were examined. The male‑to‑female ratio was 1:1.12. Pleural fluid constituted the majority of the sample (436, 39.10%). Overall, 56 (5.02%) cases were non‑diagnostic (ND), 1013 (90.85%) cases were negative for malignancy, 8 (0.72%) were atypia of undetermined significance, 11 (0.99%) were suspicious of malignancy and 27 (2.42%) were malignant (MAL). Conclusion: The current study emphasises the significance of cytological analysis of serous fluid as a comprehensive diagnostic investigation that also aids in determining the cause and monitoring the disease process. With the introduction of ISFRSFC, serous fluid reporting is now uniform and more comprehensive, both for cytopathologists and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To standardize the reporting pattern across various institutions, recently the international system for reporting serous fluid cytology (ISRSFC) was introduced. The objective of the present study was to classify serous fluids into various categories as per the ISRSFC, derive the risk of malignancy for each category and determine the diagnostic efficacy of fluid cytology when ISRSFC was applied. Methodology: Cross-sectional study involving 235 cases of serous effusion over a duration of two years. All the cases were reclassified as per ISRSFC into five categories. Descriptive statistics was derived. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) was determined in 74 cases wherein final diagnosis was confirmed by clinical findings, radiology, or cell block. Results: Out of total 235 cases of fluid examined, distribution of cases in the diagnostic categories were as follows, 11 (4.6%) in nondiagnostic (ND), 208 (88.51%) in negative for malignancy (NFM), 5 (2.12%) in atypia of undetermined significance (AUS), 2 (0.85%) in suspicious for malignancy (SFM) and 9(3.82%) in malignant (MAL)category. Out of 208 cases of NFM, mesothelial cells were seen in only 8 (3.8%) cases. The risk of malignancy was 0% each in ND and NFM, 40% in AUS, 100% each in SFM and MAL. Sensitivity and specificity of fluid cytology was 100% and 96.6% respectively while PPV and NPV was 81.81% and 100 % respectively. Conclusion: ISRSFC is easy to apply and has high diagnostic efficacy. Most of the serous effusions fall in negative for malignancy category. Mesothelial cells are not important for specimen adequacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Liquid biopsy is a non tissue specimen method uses body fluids for molecular analysis of biomarkers Objectives: Liquid biopsies has the potential to advance early cancer detection, treatment modification, and disease recurrence surveillance. Biomarkers like exosomes, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and techniques to analyze are discussed. It also emphasizes the significance of liquid biopsy, which proposes a possible substitute for solid biopsy for diagnosis and prognosis of cancer Conclusion: This review enlightens biological and clinical importance of various biomarkers and their detection for the diagnosis and prognosis of oral cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Maintaining an appropriate hydration level by ingesting fluid in a hot environment is a measure to prevent heat-related illness. Caffeine-containing beverages, including green tea (GT), have been avoided as inappropriate rehydration beverages to prevent heat-related illness because caffeine has been assumed to exert diuretic/natriuretic action. However, the influence of caffeine intake on urine output in dehydrated individuals is not well documented. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of fluid replacement with GT on body fluid balance and renal water and electrolyte handling in mildly dehydrated individuals. Methods: Subjects were dehydrated by performing three bouts of stepping exercise for 20 min separated by 10 min of rest. They were asked to ingest an amount of water (H2O), GT, or caffeinated H2O (20 mg/100 ml; Caf-H2O) that was equal to the volume of fluid loss during the dehydration protocol; fluid balance was measured for 2 h after fluid ingestion. Results: The dehydration protocol induced hypohydration by ~ 10 g/kg body weight (~ 1% of body weight). Fluid balance 2 h after fluid ingestion was significantly less negative in all trials, and the fluid retention ratio was 52.2 ± 4.2% with H2O, 51.0 ± 5.0% with GT, and 47.9 ± 6.2% with Caf-H2O; those values did not differ among the trials. After rehydration, urine output, urine osmolality, and urinary excretions of osmotically active substances, sodium, potassium and chloride were not different among the trials. Conclusion: The data indicate that ingestion of GT or an equivalent caffeine amount does not worsen the hydration level 2 h after ingestion and can be effective in reducing the negative fluid balance for acute recovery from mild hypohydration. Trial registration: ISRCTN53057185; retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cellular composition of body fluids (BF) provides insight into disease pathology and is an important diagnostic parameter. The well-established Sysmex XN haematology analyser (XN) offers automated BF analysis and is in routine use in many laboratories. In this study the performance of the new Sysmex XR analyser (XR) in testing BF is compared to the XN. Cerebrospinal, pleural, peritoneal, and synovial fluids, as well as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples, were processed in BF mode on both analysers. Standard statistical methods were used to evaluate the performance of XR compared to the reference XN. Cell counts were generated from a total of 356 measurements from 307 patient BF samples. After application of exclusion criteria, 86 cerebrospinal, 77 peritoneal, 78 pleural, and 89 synovial fluid sample pairs were compared. An excellent correlation coefficient (r) between the two analysers was observed for all diagnostic parameters; WBC-BF: 0.996, RBC-BF: 0.974, TC-BF: 0.995, MN#: 0.994, MN%: 0.830, PMN#: 0.985 and PMN%: 0.835. The research parameters also performed equally well (r values of 0.900–0.994). The performance of diluted and undiluted samples was equally good. Similar results for diagnostic and research parameters were obtained from 62 BAL samples (r values of 0.899–0.992). This study demonstrates that the automated BF counts on the new Sysmex XR analyser are equivalent to that of the XN for all BF types analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Megakaryocytes are large multilobulated precursor cells which usually reside within the bone marrow and give rise to platelets. There have been rare occurrences where they have been found in peripheral blood and extramedullary tissues in conditions where the underlying mechanisms of the bone marrow have been affected. This case report discusses an unusual presentation of a man with myelofibrosis who was found to have megakaryocytes in his ascitic fluid. We have highlighted the images showing utility of combination of traditional staining methods and immunohistochemistry in combating this diagnostic dilemma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, the effects of magnetic field and heat transfer on the peristaltic flow of a Jeffery fluid through a porous medium in an asymmetric channel have been studied. The governing non-linear partial differential equations representing the flow model are transmuted into linear ones by employing the appropriate non-dimensional parameters under the assumption of long wavelength and low Reynolds number. Exact solutions are presented for the stream function, pressure gradient, and temperature. The frictional force and pressure rise are both computed using numerical integration. Using MATLAB R2023a software, a parametric analysis is performed, and the resulting data is represented graphically. For all physical quantities considered, numerical calculations were made and represented graphically. Trapping phenomena are discussed graphically. The obtained results can be applied to enhance pumping systems in engineering and gastrointestinal functions. This analysis permits body fluids such as blood and lymph to easily move inside the arteries and veins, allowing oxygen supply, waste elimination, and other necessary elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-12p70 levels in serum and peritoneal fluid in women related to infertility and pelvic pain. Methods Eighty-seven women were diagnosed with endometriosis or cases related to infertility. IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-12p70 levels in serum and peritoneal fluid were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pain assessment was evaluated by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score. Results Serum IL-6 and IL-12p70 levels increased in women with endometriosis compared to the control group. Serum and peritoneal IL-8 and IL-12p70 levels correlated with VAS scores in infertile women. A positive correlation was also found between peritoneal IL-1β and IL-6 with VAS score. A significant difference in peritoneal IL-1β levels was associated with menstrual pelvic pain, while peritoneal IL-8 levels were related to dyspareunia, menstrual, and post-menstrual pelvic pain in infertile women. Conclusions An association of IL-8 and IL-12p70 levels were related to pain in endometriosis, as well as a relationship between cytokine expression and VAS score. Further studies should be addressed to investigate the precise mechanism of cytokine-related pain in endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease defined by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterine cavity. Several authors have reported on the association between changes in inflammatory marker levels and the maintenance or progression of endometriosis and associated infertility. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is the most studied cytokine in endometriosis and has important functions in reproductive physiology. The aim of this study is to review systematically available evidence about altered IL-6 concentrations in endometriosis-related infertility. This is a systematic review including all studies until December 2022 in which IL-6 in serum, peritoneal fluid, follicular fluid, or endometrial biopsy specimens was measured and that correlated their findings with endometriosis-associated infertility. Fifteen studies were included in the systematic review. There seems to be a correlation between elevated serum and peritoneal fluid IL-6 concentrations and the occurrence of endometriosis-associated infertility. IL-6 may be a potential diagnostic or biomarker tool for the prediction of endometriosis-related infertility. However, the numerous biases affecting the available studies, and challenges in endometriosis research reproducibility must be considered. Future investigations should pay attention to factors that may affect the results, such as the choice of suitable control groups, and carefully consider other pathological conditions affecting the patients, endometriosis stage, and type of lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes are a type of small extracellular vesicles carrying proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. Because their expression levels are highly correlated with tumor development, exosomes are regarded as non‐invasive biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. Therefore, many exosome detection techniques are developed to provide a new way for cancer diagnosis. However, conventional techniques require the isolation of exosomes from body fluids before analysis, which usually relies on complex equipment and cumbersome operations. In addition, complex procedures may introduce impurities and thus affect the accuracy of the test. As an emerging analysis technology, microfluidic overcomes these shortcomings by integrating a microchannel for sample transport isolation and an exosome analysis module, showing great prospects in cancer diagnosis. This review will provide an overview of microchannel fabrication and analysis methods with outstanding compatibility for different microfluidic types, with a particular focus on microfluidic‐based exosome analysis methods that have the potential for clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare entity that occurs during pregnancy, about which there is limited information currently. This study aimed to contribute to the literature by evaluating histopathologic findings, clinical data, and autopsy findings of the cases from a postmortem point of view. Methods: A 10-year retrospective study was designed to assess deaths during pregnancy. To address vascular structures and identify the squamous cells, immunohistochemical staining was performed on the lung specimens of individuals who underwent autopsy due to sudden death during this period and were diagnosed with amnion embolism. Demographic data and clinical findings of the cases were obtained from the institutional archive and evaluated together with autopsy and histopathologic findings. Results: During a 10-year period, 89 pregnant women were autopsied and five were diagnosed with amniotic fluid embolism. In all cases, macroscopic examination revealed subpleural petechial hemorrhages in the lungs, and hematoxylin-eosin (HE)-stained sections of the lungs showed scales and squamous cells in pulmonary vessel lumens. Immunohistochemical staining with CD34 in vascular structures and with pankeratin (PANCK) in scales and squamous cells was detected in all cases. There was no pathology in other organs on macroscopic and microscopic examination. No drugs or toxins were detected in the blood and body fluids in the toxologic analysis. Two decedents had symptoms before labor and two decedents had symptoms during labor. One decedent had symptoms just after she gave birth vaginally. Four of them had emergency c-sections. In three cases, uterine rupture followed by hysterectomy was observed, and in two cases, the fetus also died with the mother. Three fetuses whose mothers died due to amniotic fluid embolism were rescued alive. Conclusion: This study underlines uterine rupture and Cesarean sections as crucial risk factors for AFE, but no connection was found with older maternal age. Although AFE is such a devastating picture, there is still no agreed diagnostic definition currently. This study supports the reliability of the clinical parameters recommended in the Paris AFE framework, which was based on clinical findings. These criteria can also be used in our country in places with more limited conditions. This study emphasizes that it is critical to evaluate patients with echocardiography, which is available in many centers in Turkey, in cases of pregnancy with unstoppable vaginal bleeding that starts with hypotension and neurological findings. The postmortem data can contribute to the recognition of its unique clinical and histopathological manifestations, which can be used for maternal and infant survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this descriptive investigation was threefold: (a) to assess the nutrition, training, supplement, and performance-enhancement drug practices of male and female physique competitors 30 days before competition; (b) to examine the specific water and macronutrient manipulation performed by competitors during the last 3 days before competition; and (c) to assess physiological responses to precontest preparation including body composition, body fluids, resting heart rate, and blood pressure. Competitors reported performing moderately high volume, moderate to high repetition, split-body resistance training programs performed on most days of the week; the programs included the use of a variety of advanced training methods. A majority of competitors included cardio to expedite fat loss, and most reported performing cardio in a fasted state despite a lack of objective evidentiary support for the practice. Competitors substantially restricted calories and consumed protein in amounts well above research-based guidelines (>3 g⋅kg-1⋅d-1); carbohydrate and lipid intake were highly variable. Water was substantially reduced in the final 3 days before competition. Competitors used a variety of dietary supplements throughout the study period, many of which are not supported by research. Both male and female competitors reported using performance enhancing drugs (~48 and ~38%, respectively) including testosterone derivatives, selective androgen receptor modulators, and human growth hormone. More research is warranted to elucidate safer and more effective peak week practices for physique competitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive brain cancer, and early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment. Traditional diagnostic methods have limitations, and liquid biopsies offer a non-invasive and dynamic approach to detecting and monitoring glioblastoma. This review provides a comprehensive overview of various cancer biomarkers, including circulating tumor cells, cell-free DNA, and RNA, such as microRNA, as well as extracellular vesicles. It highlights their clinical utility in glioblastoma detection, monitoring, and prognosis. In addition, challenges and limitations in implementing liquid biopsy strategies in clinical practice are addressed. Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive and lethal primary brain cancer that necessitates early detection and accurate diagnosis for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as imaging techniques and tissue biopsies, have limitations in providing real-time information and distinguishing treatment-related changes from tumor progression. Liquid biopsies, used to analyze biomarkers in body fluids, offer a non-invasive and dynamic approach to detecting and monitoring GBM. This article provides an overview of GBM biomarkers in body fluids, including circulating tumor cells (CTCs), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), cell-free RNA (cfRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and extracellular vesicles. It explores the clinical utility of these biomarkers for GBM detection, monitoring, and prognosis. Challenges and limitations in implementing liquid biopsy strategies in clinical practice are also discussed. The article highlights the potential of liquid biopsies as valuable tools for personalized GBM management but underscores the need for standardized protocols and further research to optimize their clinical utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorde (iRBD) is a precursor symptom of neurodegenerative diseases, and most patients will convert to neurodegenerative diseases later in the disease. Reliable biological markers are of great significance for early identification of high-risk converters and predicting phenoconversion pattern. This paper reviews the research progress of biological markers in predicting conversion to neurodegenerative diseases in iRBD from clinical symptomology, neuroelectrophysiology, neuroimaging, body fluid, pathology and gene markers, in order to select patients suitable for disease modification therapy and delay the development of neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Clinical outcomes are poor if patients with acute heart failure (AHF) are discharged with residual congestion in the presence of renal dysfunction. However, there is no single indication to reflect the combined effects of the two related pathophysiological processes. We, therefore, proposed an indicator, congestion and renal index (CRI), and examined the associations between the CRI and one-year outcomes and the incremental prognostic value of CRI compared with the established scoring systems in a multicenter prospective cohort of AHF. METHODS: We enrolled AHF patients and calculated the ratio of thoracic fluid content index divided by estimated glomerular filtration rate before discharge, as CRI. Then we examined the associations between CRI and one-year outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 944 patients were included in the analysis (mean age 63.3 ± 13.8 years, 39.3% women). Compared with patients with CRI ≤ 0.59 mL/min per kΩ, those with CRI > 0.59 mL/min per kΩ had higher risks of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization (HR = 1.56 [1.13-2.15]) and all-cause death or all-cause hospitalization (HR = 1.33 [1.01-1.74]). CRI had an incremental prognostic value compared with the established scoring system. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with AHF, CRI is independently associated with the risk of death or hospitalization within one year, and improves the risk stratification of the established risk models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need and significance for quality bone graft substitute increases due to the worldwide increment in the health problems such as osteoporosis, accidental loss and teeth decay etc. Nowadays, nanohydroxyapatite and its polymeric composites are effectively used as bone grafts and dentin. In this work, nanohydroxyapatite (nHAp) and surface-modified nanohydroxyapatite were synthesized through the precipitation method using bio-wastes (eggshells) as a Calcium precursor. The polymers Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyvinyl acrylate (PVA) were used as surface modifiers to control the particle size. The prepared samples were analyzed through X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Thermogravimetric Differential Thermal Analysis (TG-DTA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) and X-ray Photoelectronic Spectroscopy (XPS). Also, the samples were subjected to simulated body fluid analysis, antimicrobial and hemolytic assay to analyze the apatite forming ability and hemolytic nature. The XRD, SEM and HR-TEM results show the crystallite and particle sizes are about 41 nm, 57 nm and 66.6 nm (rod-shaped) respectively. While the EDAX spectra show the presence of Calcium, Phosphate, Oxygen and Sodium in the prepared sample. However, the FT-IR spectra confirm the presence of OH, PO 4 3−, and CO 3 2− functional groups in the sample. The thermogram depicts the stability of nHAp/PVA composite is better than nHAp without polymer. This study reports that reprocessing of eggshells to nHAp and its composites paves the way to recover the ecosphere and the obtained value-added product, which may use in making a promising material for bone implants, dental fillers and coatings at low cost. [Display omitted] • Fabrication of Pure and Polymer assisted Nanohydroxyapatite from waste E ggshells. • The first study to report, polymer assisted Nanohydroxyapatite (with PEG and PVA polymers) using Eggshells as a precursor. • This method is free from risky chemicals and noxious by-products. • It is possible to get Hydroxyapatite nanocomposites at a lower cost with high yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the presented work, the formation of anodic oxide film on Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Extra Low Interstitial) alloy in 0.02 M trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4) electrolyte solution using various voltages were investigated. The color produced by the anodizing, the intensity of TiO2 content, the thickness of the oxide layer, and the corrosion rate were examined. It was obtained that the color appearance of Ti-6Al-4V ELI could be changed easily by altering the applied voltages. The higher the voltage applied in the anodizing process, the thicker the titanium oxide layer formed. The corrosion resistance analysis in a Simulated Body Fluid revealed that the non-anodized specimen showed a higher corrosion rate compared to the anodized specimen. The increase of oxide layer thickness leads to a significant decrease in corrosion rate and consequently increases the corrosion resistance. In addition, the anodized sample achieved the highest corrosion resistance at 15 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Point-of-care analysis of neurotransmitters in body fluids plays a significant role in healthcare improvement. Conventional approaches are limited by time-consuming procedures and usually require laboratory instruments for sample preparation. Herein, we developed a surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) composite hydrogel device for the rapid analysis of neurotransmitters in whole blood samples. The PEGDA/SA composite hydrogel enabled fast separation of small molecules from the complex blood matrix, while the plasmonic SERS substrate allowed for the sensitive detection of target molecules. 3D printing was employed to integrate the hydrogel membrane and the SERS substrate into a systematic device. The sensor achieved highly sensitive detection of dopamine in whole blood samples with a limit of detection down to 1 nM. The whole detection process from sample preparation to SERS readout can be finished within 5 min. Due to the simple operation and rapid response, the device shows great potential in point-of-care diagnosis and the monitoring of neurological and cardiovascular diseases and disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precision of compartment-based quantification methods is subject to multiple effects, of which partitioning and subsampling play a major role. Partitioning is the process of aliquoting the sample liquid and consequently the contained target molecules, whereas subsampling denotes the fact that usually only a portion of a sample is analyzed. In this work, we present a detailed statistical description comprising the effects of partitioning and subsampling on the relative uncertainty of the test result. We show that the state-of-the-art binomial model does not provide accurate results for the level of subsampling present when analyzing the nucleic acid content of single specific cells. Hence, in this work we address partitioning and subsampling effects separately and subsequently combine them to derive the relative uncertainty of a test system and compare it for single cell content analysis and body fluid analysis. In point-of-care test systems the area for partitioning and detection is usually limited, which means that a trade-off between the number of partitions (related to a partitioning uncertainty) and the amount of analyzed volume (related to a subsampling uncertainty) might be inevitable. In case of low target concentration, the subsampling uncertainty is dominant whereas for high target concentration, the partitioning uncertainty increases, and a larger number of partitions is beneficial to minimize the combined uncertainty. We show, that by minimizing the subsampling uncertainty in the test system, the quantification uncertainty of low target concentrations in single cell content analysis is much smaller than in body fluid analysis. In summary, the work provides the methodological basis for a profound statistical evaluation of partitioning and subsampling effects in compartment-based quantification methods and paves the way towards an improved design of future digital quantification devices for highly accurate molecular diagnostic analysis at the point-of-care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactivity is critically important for a glass material to be used in bone tissue engineering, which is stated to be affected by the addition of therapeutic ions such as Sr and Cu. In this study, the findings of a comprehensive in vitro study on the bioactivity of previously produced and characterized in terms of structure, composition and thermal features novel SrO and CuO co-incorporated 50S6P (SiO 2 –CaO–Na 2 O–P 2 O 5 , SrO–CuO) glasses were discussed. Herein, chemical bond, morphology, composition, and crystallinity changes on the amorphous silicate glasses were investigated using FT-IR, SEM-EDX, and XRD analysis, respectively. Furthermore, quantitative assessment of glass ionic dissolution products concentrations were performed in contact with simulated body fluid by ICP-OES analysis. SrO and CuO co-incorporated 50S6P amorphous silicate glasses showed an appropriate release profile in terms of its ionic products (Si4+: 18.5–32.6, Ca2+: 132.1–234.3, Sr2+: 1.29–2.35, Cu2+: 2.28–3.34, ppm), which resulted in the formation of Ca–P layer and the proceeding of its accumulation, further conformed with FT-IR and SEM-EDX. Furthermore, apatite layer, which consists of crystal apatite ranging in size (6.5–9.8 nm) having different degree of crystallinity percentages (2.5–22.4%), was formed on the glasses surface within 28 days in SBF. The results revealed that Sr incorporation (4.22 wt. %) has an enhancing effect on bioactivity, whereas increased Cu incorporation (0.10–0.26 wt. %) had a relatively inhibitory effect on bioactivity of the glasses. These findings are indicators of desirable bioactive features of 50S6P glasses. Thus, these bioactive glasses are acceptable to be utilized in bone tissue engineering application as bone graft biomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Malignant effusion is usually caused by metastatic carcinoma. Malignant lymphoma is often not included as a top differential diagnosis of malignant effusion. Here, we describe 3 cases of young female patients with no significant past medical history who presented with fluid overload and were diagnosed with high-grade B-cell lymphoma (HGBL). Methods We conducted histopathologic examination and immunophenotypic and cytogenetic analyses on three cases using immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and karyotyping. We also included patients' clinical and radiological findings in our case reports. Results Histologic examination of the effusion samples showed numerous intermediate to large lymphoma cells with irregular nuclear contours and fine chromatin. The lymphoma cells were positive for CD10, CD20, BCL2, BCL6, and PAX5 and negative for CD34, cyclin D1, HHV-8, and TdT. In situ hybridization for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)–encoded small RNAs was negative. The proliferation index by Ki-67 stain was more than 80%. Flow cytometry showed CD10-positive B cells with monotypic immunoglobulin light chain expression. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis demonstrated MYC , BCL2 , or BCL6 rearrangements. These 3 patients were diagnosed as having HGBL with double-/triple-hit rearrangements. Despite receiving aggressive chemotherapy, all 3 patients had a dismal clinical course, with 2 patients dying less than 2 years after initial diagnosis. Conclusions High-grade B-cell lymphoma should be considered in the differential diagnoses of malignant effusions. Flow cytometric and FISH analyses of the body fluid specimens are essential to reach an accurate and timely diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this analysis was to determine if acute, localized resistance exercise (RE) artificially influences total and regional estimates of body composition from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Recreationally active male (n = 14) and female (n = 18) subjects completed 3 testing visits: rest (R), upper-extremity RE (U), and lower-extremity RE (L). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans were completed before exercise and 60 minutes after exercise. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was completed immediately before and after exercise and at 15, 30, and 60 minutes after exercise. Subjects were not allowed to intake fluid during the exercise session or during the postexercise assessment period. The effects of the acute RE session on DXA and BIA estimates were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models with a random intercept for subject. Condition by time interactions were observed for most BIA outcomes. Relative to the reference model (i.e., R condition at baseline), total body water and fat-free mass estimates were, on average, approximately 1 and approximately 1.2 kg higher, in the U condition. In contrast, lower-extremity RE exerted little or no impact on most BIA variables. Some DXA estimates exhibited time main effects, but the magnitude of changes was negligible. An acute bout of localized RE, particularly upperextremity RE, can artificially influence BIA body fluid and composition estimates, whereas DXA may be robust to the acute biological error introduced by RE. Although body composition assessments should ideally be conducted under standardized conditions, DXA may be suitable in less standardized situations. In addition, BIA is differentially influenced by upper-extremity and lower-extremity resistance exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is significant interest in the use of miRNA analysis for forensic body fluid identification. Demonstrated co-extraction and detection in DNA extracts could make the use of miRNAs a more streamlined molecular body fluid identification method than other RNA-based methods. We previously reported a reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) panel of eight miRNAs that classified venous and menstrual blood, feces, urine, saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions using a quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA) model with 93% accuracy in RNA extracts. Herein, miRNA expression in DNA extracts from 50 donors of each body fluid were tested using the model. Initially, a classification rate of 87% was obtained, which increased to 92% when three additional miRNAs were added. Body fluid identification was found to be reliable across population samples of mixed ages, ethnicities, and sex, with 72–98% of the unknown samples classifying correctly. The model was then tested against compromised samples and over biological cycles, where classification accuracy varied, depending on the body fluid. In conclusion, we demonstrated the ability to classify body fluids using miRNA expression from DNA extracts, eliminating the need for RNA extraction, greatly reducing evidentiary sample consumption and processing time in forensic laboratories, but acknowledge that compromised semen and saliva samples can fail to classify properly, and mixed sample classification remains untested and may have limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Considering thermal liquid biopsy (TLB) as a potential secondary test after fecal immunochemical test positivity (FIT+), the aim of this work was to study possible interferences of colonoscopy bowel preparation on TLB outcome on a retrospective study. TLB parameters together with fluorescence spectra and other serum indicators (albumin and C-reactive protein) confirmed the statistically significant differences between normal colonoscopy patients with and without bowel preparation, revealing the distorting effect of bowel preparation on serum composition and discrimination of disease status. The diagnostic capability of other liquid-biopsy-based methods might also be compromised. Blood extraction after bowel preparation for colonoscopy should be avoided. (1) Background: About 50% of prescribed colonoscopies report no pathological findings. A secondary screening test after fecal immunochemical test positivity (FIT+) would be required. Considering thermal liquid biopsy (TLB) as a potential secondary test, the aim of this work was to study possible interferences of colonoscopy bowel preparation on TLB outcome on a retrospective study; (2) Methods: Three groups were studied: 1/514 FIT(+) patients enrolled in a colorectal screening program (CN and CP with normal and pathological colonoscopy, respectively), with blood samples obtained just before colonoscopy and after bowel preparation; 2/55 patients from the CN group with blood sample redrawn after only standard 8–10 h fasting and no bowel preparation (CNR); and 3/55 blood donors from the biobank considered as a healthy control group; (3) Results: The results showed that from the 514 patients undergoing colonoscopy, 247 had CN and 267 had CP. TLB parameters in these two groups were similar but different from those of the blood donors. The resampled patients (with normal colonoscopy and no bowel preparation) had similar TLB parameters to those of the blood donors. TLB parameters together with fluorescence spectra and other serum indicators (albumin and C-reactive protein) confirmed the statistically significant differences between normal colonoscopy patients with and without bowel preparation; (4) Conclusions: Bowel preparation seemed to alter serum protein levels and altered TLB parameters (different from a healthy subject). The diagnostic capability of other liquid-biopsy-based methods might also be compromised. Blood extraction after bowel preparation for colonoscopy should be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]