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Background: In the last decade, numerous methods have been proposed to define and detect outliers, particularly in complex environments like networks, where anomalies significantly deviate from normal patterns. Although defining a clear standard is challenging, anomaly detection systems have become essential for network administrators to efficiently identify and resolve irregularities. Methods: This study develops and evaluates a machine learning-based system for network anomaly detection, focusing on point anomalies within network traffic. It employs both unsupervised and supervised learning techniques, including change point detection, clustering, and classification models, to identify anomalies. SHAP values are utilized to enhance model interpretability. Results: Unsupervised models effectively captured temporal patterns, while supervised models, particularly Random Forest (94.3%), demonstrated high accuracy in classifying anomalies, closely approximating the actual anomaly rate. Conclusions: Experimental results indicate that the system can accurately predict network anomalies in advance. Congestion and packet loss were identified as key factors in anomaly detection. This study demonstrates the potential for real-world deployment of the anomaly detection system to validate its scalability.

Vertex models have become essential tools for understanding tissue morphogenesis by simulating the mechanical and geometric properties of cells in various biological systems. These models represent cells as polygons or polyhedra, capturing cellular interactions such as adhesion, tension, and force generation. This review explores the ongoing evolution of computational vertex models, highlighting their application to complex tissue dynamics, including organoid development, wound healing, and cancer metastasis. We examine different energy formulations used in vertex models, which account for mechanical forces such as surface tension, volume conservation, and intercellular adhesion. Additionally, this review discusses the challenges of expanding traditional 2D models to 3D structures, which require the inclusion of factors like mechanical polarisation and topological transitions. We also introduce recent advancements in modelling techniques that allow for more flexible and dynamic cell shapes, addressing limitations in earlier frameworks. Mechanochemical feedback and its role in tissue behaviour are explored, along with cutting-edge approaches like self-propelled Voronoi models. Finally, the review highlights the importance of parameter inference in these models, particularly through Bayesian methods, to improve accuracy and predictive power. By integrating these new insights, vertex models continue to provide powerful frameworks for exploring the complexities of tissue morphogenesis.

The machining of implants and parts for dental prostheses to eliminate biofilm in the implantoplasty process causes a loss of mechanical properties and also characteristics of the surfaces, making tissue regeneration difficult. In the present work, treatments consisting of elements that can reduce infection, such as citric acid and magnesium, together with elements that can improve cell adhesion and proliferation, such as collagen, are proposed for implant–crown assembly. Titanium, zirconia, composite (PMMA + feldspar) and cobalt–chromium discs were immersed in four different solutions: 25% citric acid, 25% citric acid with the addition of collagen 0.25 g/L, 25% citric acid with the addition of 0.50 g/L and the latter with the addition of 1% Mg (NO3)2. After immersion was applied for 2 and 10 min, the roughness was determined by interferometric microscopy and the contact angle (CA) was evaluated. Human fibroblastic and osteoblastic line cells (HFFs and SaOS-2) were used to determine cell viability and proliferation capacity. Cell binding and cytotoxicity were determined by resazurin sodium salt assay (Alamar Blue) and cell morphology by confocal assay (immunofluorescence F-actin (phalloidin)) after 3 days of incubation. For the evaluation of bacterial activity, the bacterial strains Sptreptococcus gordonii (Gram+) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram−) were used. The antibacterial properties of the proposed treatments were determined by means of the resazurin sodium salt (Alamar Blue) assay after 1 day of incubation. The treatments considerably decreased the contact angle of the treated samples with respect to the control samples. The treatments endowed the surfaces of the samples with a hydrophilic/super-hydrophilic character. The combination of elements proposed for this study provided cell viability greater than 70%; considering the absence of cytotoxicity, it therefore promotes the adhesion and proliferation of fibroblasts and osteoblasts. In addition, it also endows the surface with antibacterial characteristics against from Gram+ and Gram− bacteria without damaging the cells. These results show that this mouthwash can be useful in oral applications to produce a new passivation layer that favors the hydrophilicity of the surface and promotes cellular activity for the formation of fibroblasts and osteoblasts, as well as showing bactericidal activity.

Nowadays, the mobility sector is assessing different technologies to substitute the internal combustion engines in order to reduce its CO2 emissions; one of these possible alternatives is the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cell. So, the development of non-destructive diagnostic tools that could identify defective cells and/or any malfunctioning behavior and can be easily embarked on in any vehicle will expand the durability of PEM fuel cells, improve their performance, and enable them to carry out predictive maintenance. In this research, we use an in-house developed methodology that combines the polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques to characterize different cells of a commercial PEM stack, identifying malfunctioning ones.

Monoclonal antibody (MoAb) therapy has been increasingly used in recent years for hematologic malignancies. The MoAbs anti-CD38 and anti-CD47 are immunoglobulins directed against epitopes that are highly expressed not only on cancer cells, but also on red blood cells (RBCs), as well as platelets. Additionally, producing an off-target effect interferes in pre-transfusion testing, having the potential to unchain hemolytic anemia. Blood banks must assure the availability and safety of blood products for patients in need. Thus, MoAbs have become a challenge for blood banks, since methods to overcome interferences must be adopted. Several strategies have been proposed to mitigate pan-reactivity in pre-transfusion indirect antiglobulin tests, such as the treatment of reagent RBCs with enzymes or reducing agents, allogeneic RBC adsorptions, and drug-specific neutralization assays. All of these have some kind of limitation. This review summarizes the interferences of MoAbs in pre-transfusion testing, focusing on the available strategies to mitigate them in order to provide a safe transfusion.

Cultural heritage is one of the areas where Extended Reality is having a significant impact nowadays. Although often associated with entertainment, this technology has enormous educational potential when applied to heritage. Therefore, it is essential to implement monitoring tools in educational practice to assess its actual effectiveness. This article presents the process of generating and validating a statistical data collection instrument developed to evaluate a virtual reality experience created using the archaeological heritage of the ancient Roman city of Augusta Emerita (Mérida, Spain). It can be easily adapted to evaluate similar experiences. The aim is to gauge the effectiveness of these experiences as a didactic resource. The questionnaire was subjected to an evaluation of its three dimensions. Content validity was analyzed through expert judgments, while applicability was tested by students. Finally, a series of statistical tests were conducted to verify construct reliability and internal consistency. Based on the results obtained and cross-referenced with the data provided by the literature, the suitability of this tool for collecting data on usability, learning, and emotions in virtual reality experiences is confirmed.

Transhumance and its associated heritage are extremely complex and dynamic systems, and their conservation requires the analysis of interdisciplinary factors. To this end, fuzzy cognitive maps (FCMs) and Delphi surveys were applied for the first time in the field of heritage conservation. The model was applied to the tangible and intangible transhumance heritage of Andorra to determine its current state of conservation and to evaluate strategies for its preservation. Two panels of experts worked on the development of the model. Five experts with profiles related to conservation and transhumance heritage formed the first panel, which designed the preliminary FCMs, while seven experts in Andorran cultural heritage (panel 2) adapted the preliminary FCM model to Andorran transhumance heritage using Delphi surveys. The FCM model allowed us to analyze the influence of different variables on the conservation of transhumance heritage and to assess policy decisions. Further studies will focus on the implementation of this model in other countries to establish common recommendations for the conservation of the cultural heritage of transhumance.

Background: There are conflicting studies reporting both an increase and a decrease in vitamin B12 (VB12) levels in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this study, we aimed to dissect the effects of steatosis and fibrosis on VB12. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study including all patients with a vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) performed at the Hospital Miguel Servet (Zaragoza, Spain) between 2019 and 2022 for a chronic liver disease and having a recent blood test for VB12 levels. Liver fibrosis was assessed by VCTE and hepatic steatosis by ultrasonography and/or through controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). Results: 1195 patients (NAFLD n = 441, other chronic liver disease n = 754) were included. Median age was 57 years, 53% female. Patients with NAFLD had lower levels of VB12 compared to the rest of chronic liver diseases (289 vs. 313 pg/mL, p < 0.001). A significant negative correlation was observed between VB12 levels and hepatic steatosis measured by CAP (r = −0.13, p < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was observed between VB12 levels and liver stiffness in patients with NAFLD in both sexes (men r = 0.31, p < 0.001 and women r = 0.15, p = 0.016). A significant association between VB12 levels and liver fibrosis in cirrhosis stage was observed in patients with NAFLD (OR 1.06, 95% CI, 1.025–1.098, p = 0.001). Conclusion: VB12 levels were lower with greater hepatic steatosis. In NAFLD, VB12 levels were lower compared to other chronic liver diseases but their levels increased with higher liver stiffness and in cirrhosis stage.

The TERT (Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase) gene promoter mutation is one of the most prevalent mutations in urothelial bladder tumors and this mutation is related to bladder tumor progression. Our purpose was to evaluate the presence of this mutation in a population of patients who were first diagnosed at age ≤ 40 years and to examine its relationship with tumor characteristics and progression. A molecular study was performed to detect the two most prevalent mutations in the TERT promoter (C228T and C250T). The study included 29 patients, with a mean follow-up of 152 months. There were no statistically significant differences in the clinical or tumor characteristics according to the presence or absence of the mutation. Although the mutation group showed poorer recurrence-free survival (RFS), there was no statistically significant difference and there was no difference in progression-free survival by group (p > 0.05). The pTERT mutations in bladder tumor cells occurred less frequently in younger patients than in older patients, a finding that could indicate different mechanisms of carcinogenesis. The trend towards lower RFS in patients with mutated pTERT needs to be confirmed by further studies, given the small number of patients included in these studies due to the low incidence of bladder tumors in this age group.

Background: Selective IgA deficiency (IgA-D) has been historically considered a high-risk entity for developing allergic/anaphylactic reactions after blood transfusion (AATRs). However, it has been suggested that the IgA-D-related anaphylactic transfusion reaction is not evidence-based. Methods: We conducted three different approaches to collect evidence about epidemiology, AATRs, and transfusion management of patients with IgA-D at La Fe University Hospital. Firstly, we analysed the prevalence of IgA-D in a population of patients diagnosed with acute leukaemia, The second approach consisted of collecting transfusion data from IgA-D patients. Finally, we reviewed the IgA levels of patients recorded in the hemovigilance system suffering an AATR. Results: IgA-D prevalence was 1 in 334 patients. At least one blood component was transfused to 23 patients diagnosed with IgA-D. Plasma was transfused to eight IgA-D patients, while six patients received red blood cells, platelets, and plasma. No adverse reactions were reported in any patient. AATRs occurred in 325 men and 264 women with a median age of 52 years. Severe reactions occurred in 56 patients (1/14,520 components). Mean IgA levels were 215 mg/dL (4–5570) for mild reactions and 214 mg/dL (14–824) for severe reactions (p = ns). Washed platelets were administered to two patients who developed severe and repeated AATRs. Both had normal IgA levels. Conclusions: Since the AATRs related to IgA-D are extremely low, as reported in current hemovigilance systems, IgA-D should not be considered a high-risk entity to develop AATRs. On the contrary, our findings support standard transfusion management of IgA-D patients.

Background: Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen that causes a wide range of infections worldwide. The emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant clones requires the implementation of novel therapeutics, and phages are a promising approach. Results: In this study, two Klebsiella phages, KpTDp1 and KpTDp2, were isolated from wastewater samples in Tunisia. These phages had a narrow host range and specifically targeted the hypervirulent K2 and K28 capsular types of K. pneumoniae. Both phages have double-stranded linear DNA genomes of 49,311 and 49,084 bp, respectively. Comparative genomic and phylogenetic analyses placed phage KpTDp2 in the genus Webervirus, while phage KpTDp1 showed some homology with members of the genus Jedunavirus, although its placement in a new undescribed genus may be reconsidered. The replication efficiency and lytic ability of these phages, combined with their high stability at temperatures up to 70 °C and pH values ranging from 3.5 to 8.2, highlight the potential of these phages as good candidates for the control of hypervirulent multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae. Methods: Phage isolation, titration and multiplicity of infection were performed. The stability of KpTDp1 and KpTDp2 was tested at different pH and temperatures. Genomic characterization was done by genome sequencing, annotation and phylogenetic analysis. Conclusions: The ability of KpTDp1 and KpTDp2 to lyse one of the most virulent serotypes of K. pneumoniae, as well as the stability of their lytic activities to pH and temperature variations, make these phages promising candidates for antibacterial control.

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccines may trigger autoimmune responses in predisposed individuals. Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are diseases with diverse clinical manifestations, often associated with myositis autoantibodies (MAs). Diagnosing IIM is challenging due to limitations in classification criteria and diagnostic assays. This study aimed to describe the incidence of IIM following SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination and compare rates between exposures. Methods: A multicenter observational study was conducted with 788 patients from 11 Spanish referral centers. A total of 1209 autoantibodies including myositis-specific autoantibodies (MSAs) and myositis-associated autoantibodies (MAAs), were analyzed using line blot immunoassay (LIA). Results: The study identified distinct patterns in aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase (ARS) antibody frequencies compared to pre-pandemic periods. Anti-PL-7 was the most prevalent ARS antibody (14.85%), while anti-Jo-1 was less frequent (7.23%). Anti-MDA5, commonly linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection, was detected in 11.68%. ANA positivity was observed in 60.66%, suggesting an autoimmune background. The most frequent diagnoses were anti-synthetase syndrome (ASSD) or IIM-non-ASSD (21.31%), followed by other systemic autoimmune diseases (SAIDs) (13.57%). Among the cohort, 91.13% received at least one dose of a messenger RNA (mRNA) COVID-19 vaccine, with a median of three doses per patient. Patients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection or heterologous vaccination showed a higher frequency of multiple autoantibody positivity (p < 0.05), reflecting distinct immune signatures. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the autoimmune risks and phenotypes associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination, establishing a basis for further research on IIM and its link to MSAs and MAAs.

Background: Obesity, characterized by the secretion of several pro-inflammatory cytokines and hormones, significantly increases the risk of developing breast cancer and is associated with poorer outcomes. Mitochondrial and antioxidant status are crucial in both tumor progression and treatment response. Methods: This study investigates the impact of an ELIT cocktail (17β-estradiol, leptin, IL-6, and TNFα), which simulates the obesity-related inflammation condition in postmenopausal women, using a 3D culture model. We examined the effects of ELIT exposure on mammosphere formation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial markers, and treatment sensitivity in luminal (T47D, MCF7) and triple-negative (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cell lines. After that, 3D-derived cells were re-cultured under adherent conditions focusing on the mechanisms leading to dissemination and drug sensitivity. Results: Our results indicated that ELIT condition significantly increased mammosphere formation in luminal breast cancer cell lines (from 3.26% to 6.38% in T47D cell line and 0.68% to 2.32% in MCF7 cell line) but not in the triple-negative MDA-MB-231 cell line. Further analyses revealed a significant decrease in mitochondrial and antioxidant-related markers, particularly in the T47D cell line, where higher levels of ESR2, three-fold increased by ELIT exposure, may play a critical role. Importantly, 3D-derived T47D cells exposed to ELIT showed reduced sensitivity to tamoxifen and paclitaxel, avoiding a 34.2% and 75.1% reduction in viability, respectively. Finally, through in silico studies, we identified specific biomarkers, including TOMM20, NFE2L2, CAT, and ESR2, correlated with poor prognosis in luminal breast cancer. Conclusions: Taken together, our findings suggest that antioxidant and mitochondrial markers are key factors that reduce treatment sensitivity in obesity-related luminal breast cancer. The identified biomarkers may serve as valuable tools for the prognosis and development of more effective therapies in these patients.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that mainly affects the elderly population. It is characterized by cognitive impairment and dementia due to abnormal levels of amyloid beta peptide (Aβ) and axonal Tau protein in the brain. However, the complex underlying mechanisms affecting this disease are not yet known, and there is a lack of standardized biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Therefore, in this study, by means of bioinformatics analysis, AD-affected brain tissue was analyzed using the GSE138260 dataset, identifying 612 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional analysis revealed 388 upregulated DEGs associated with sensory perception and 224 downregulated DEGs linked to the regulation and modulation of synaptic processes. Protein–protein interaction network analysis identified 20 hub genes. Furthermore, miRNA target gene networks revealed 1767 miRNAs linked to hub genes, among which hsa-mir-106a-5p, hsa-mir-17-5p, hsa-mir-26a-5p, hsa-mir-27a-3p and hsa-mir-34a-5p were the most relevant. This study presents novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AD by analyzing the information obtained with a comprehensive literature review, providing new potential targets to study their role in AD.

Background and objective: Staging Parkinson’s disease (PD) with a novel simple classification called MNCD, based on four axes (Motor; Non-motor; Cognition; Dependency) and five stages, correlated with disease severity, patients’ quality of life and caregivers’ strain and burden. Our aim was to apply the MNCD classification in advanced PD patients treated with device-aided therapy (DAT). Patients and Methods: A multicenter observational retrospective study of the first patients to start the levodopa-entacapone-carbidopa intestinal gel (LECIG) in Spain was performed (LECIPARK study). The MNCD total score (from 0 to 12) and MNCD stages (from 1 to 5) were collected by the neurologist at V0 (before starting LECIG) and V2 (follow-up visit). Wilcoxon’s signed rank and Marginal Homogeneity tests were applied to compare changes from V0 to V2. Results: Sixty-seven PD patients (58.2% males; 69.9 ± 9.3 years old) with a mean disease duration of 14.4 ± 6.5 years were included. The mean treatment duration (V2) was 172.9 ± 105.2 days. At V0, patients were classified as in stage 2 (35.8%), 3 (46.3%) or 4 (17.9%). The frequency of patients in stage 4 decreased to 9% at V2 (p = 0.001). The MNCD total score decreased from 6.27 ± 1.94 at V0 to 5.21 ± 2.23 (p < 0.0001). From V0 to V2, the motor (M; p < 0.0001) and non-motor symptom (N; p < 0.0001) burden decreased, and autonomy for the activities of daily living (D; p = 0.005) improved. Conclusions: The MNCD classification could be useful to classify advanced PD patients and to monitor the response to a DAT.

Background: Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints in team sports. A screening test can help understand why injuries occur and predict who is at risk for non-contact low back pain. The objectives of the research were (1) to create models using logistic regression analysis of limited lower-extremity ranges of motion to prospectively identify potential factors for in-season non-contact non-contact low back pain and (2) to determine a training threshold (cut-off) for the identified factors in inline hockey players. Methods: A prospective cohort research was performed with 49 male inline hockey players aged 8 to 15 years. Data were collected regarding age, body composition, sports antecedents, competition level, and lower-limb ranges of motion (ROM-SPORT battery, n = 11 tests). A prospective measurement of non-contact low back pain was performed after 1 year (outcome) by asking the players supervised by the medical staff team (questionnaire). Results: Sixteen players (32.7%) experienced non-contact low back pain during the 1-year surveillance period. The model showed a significant relationship (χ2(39) = 43.939; p < 0.001) between the low back pain and the predictor variable hip flexion with the knee extended range of motion (OR = 3.850 [large]; 95% CI = 1.293 to 11.463; p = 0.015). The Bayesian Information Criteria and the Akaike Information Criteria for model fit were 56.885 and 37.967, respectively. The training threshold for hip flexion with the knee extended of ≤67° was set, which has an acceptable (area under the curve ≥ 94.1%) discriminatory ability for the development of non-contact low back pain for the screening test. Conclusions: Hamstring extensibility at 67° or less, as determined by hip flexion with knee extension, is a predictor of non-contact low back pain in youth inline hockey players.

Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia and cognitive decline (CD) are prevalent in aging populations, impacting functionality and quality of life. The early detection of these diseases is challenging, often relying on in-person screening, which is difficult to implement regularly. This study aims to develop artificial intelligence algorithms based on gait analysis, integrating sensor and computer vision (CV) data, to detect sarcopenia and CD. Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted involving 42 individuals aged 60 years or older. Participants were classified as having sarcopenia if they met the criteria established by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People and as having CD if their score in the Mini-Mental State Examination was ≤24 points. Gait patterns were assessed at usual walking speeds using sensors attached to the feet and lumbar region, and CV data were captured using a camera. Several key variables related to gait dynamics were extracted. Finally, machine learning models were developed using these variables to predict sarcopenia and CD. Results: Models based on sensor data, CV data, and a combination of both technologies achieved high predictive accuracy, particularly for CD. The best model for CD achieved an F1-score of 0.914, with a 95% sensitivity and 92% specificity. The combined technologies model for sarcopenia also demonstrated high performance, yielding an F1-score of 0.748 with a 100% sensitivity and 83% specificity. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that gait analysis through sensor and CV fusion can effectively screen for sarcopenia and CD. The multimodal approach enhances model accuracy, potentially supporting early disease detection and intervention in home settings.

Academic performance is the level of achievement that students reach in their educational activities. It is influenced by several factors that should be analysed and prioritised, especially in engineering courses, characterised by their difficulty and low success rates compared to other careers. This paper analyses the impact of these factors on academic performance during exams in a technical college in southwestern Spain, with a particular focus on environmental conditions, identified as a relevant and independent variable. The results show a significant connection between thermal comfort and academic performance. Temperatures within the comfort range (23–26 °C) improved students’ satisfaction with exams. In contrast, those who experienced thermal discomfort pointed to environmental conditions as the main obstacle to their performance, overcoming factors such as prior preparation and coincidence of exams. These findings underline the importance of optimising the classroom’s thermal environment through strategies that promote a more favourable learning space, improving both students’ well-being and their academic performance.

This study assessed the impact of growth-related myopathies—white striping (WS), wooden breast (WB), and spaghetti meat (SM)—on the technological properties, lipid and protein oxidation, chemical composition, and profiles of fatty acids (FAs), amino acids, minerals, and sensory attributes of pectoralis major muscles in broiler chickens. Breasts with myopathies had similar pH and lightness but exhibited lower redness and yellowness in the case of WB defect compared to normal meat (p < 0.05). The WB samples also showed higher cooking losses than normal meat and increased shear force compared to the SM samples (p < 0.01). Moreover, WB meat showed lower protein content (p < 0.001) than the normal and SM samples but the highest glycine content (p < 0.05). The WB meat also exhibited significant alterations in FA composition, with higher levels (p< 0.05) of C18:2n6, C22:6n3, n3 PUFA, n6 PUFA, and total PUFA compared to the normal and SM samples. The presence of myopathies did not influence the meat mineral composition, oxidative pattern, or sensory properties. In conclusion, growth-related myopathies in broiler chickens impact the technological quality and chemical composition of their breast meat, with WB showing the most significant alterations in protein content and FA composition. These changes indicate potential challenges to processing and nutritional quality, though sensory attributes remain largely unaffected.

The Eurasian wild boar (Sus scrofa) is a key wildlife host for tuberculosis (TB) in central and southwestern Spain, posing a challenge to TB eradication in livestock. New strategies, including the use of beneficial microbes, are being explored to mitigate wildlife diseases. This study evaluated the effect of oral supplementation with postbiotic antimycobacterial metabolites produced using Ingulados’ lactic acid bacteria (LAB) collection on TB development in wild boar. A total of 20 game estates in mid-western Spain were divided into two groups: one fed with standard feed containing the postbiotic product and a control group fed without postbiotics. Data were collected from wild boar during hunting events pre- and post-supplementation. The presence of TB-like lesions (TBLLs), lesion severity and seropositivity against Mycobacterium bovis were assessed. Postbiotic supplementation led to a 36.87% reduction in TBLLs and a 35.94% decrease in seropositivity. Notably, young wild boar showed a 64.72% reduction in TBLLs and an 81.80% drop in seropositivity, suggesting reduced transmission. These findings support the potential of postbiotics as a safe, feasible and sustainable tool to control TB in wild boar, offering a promising addition to broader TB eradication efforts.

Background: Osteosarcoma is a rare disease, but it is the most frequent malignant bone tumor. Primary treatment consists of preoperative MAP (methotrexate (MTX), doxorubicin and cisplatin) chemotherapy followed by surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Pathological response to preoperative chemotherapy is one of the most important prognostic factors, but molecular biomarkers are lacking. Additionally, chemotherapy-induced toxicity might jeopardize treatment completion. We evaluated variants in genes involved in DNA repair and drug metabolism pathways as predictors of response to MAP-based treatment. Material and Methods: Germline polymorphisms in MTHFR, SLC19A1, ABCB1, ABCC2, ABCC3, ERCC1, ERCC2 and GSTP1 genes were determined for association studies in 69 patients diagnosed with localized osteosarcoma who enrolled in the prospective GEIS-33 trial. P-glycoprotein expression in tumor tissue was also analyzed. Results: In the multivariate analysis, the ABCC2 rs2273697 (odds ratio [OR] 12.3, 95% CI 2.3–66.2; p = 0.003) and ERCC2 rs1799793 (OR 9.6, 95% CI 2.1–43.2; p = 0.003) variants were associated with poor pathological response. P-glycoprotein expression did not correlate with pathological response. The ABCB1 rs1128503 (OR 11.4, 95% CI 2.2–58.0; p = 0.003) and ABCC3 rs4793665 (OR 12.0, 95% CI 2.1–70.2; p = 0.006) variants were associated with MTX grade 3–4 hepatotoxicity. Conclusions: Our findings add to the evidence that genetic variants in the ABC transporters and DNA-repair genes may serve as predictive biomarkers for MAP chemotherapy and contribute to treatment personalization.

The use of sulfur (S) in polluted soils can reduce metal(loid) toxicity and enhance phytoremediation effectiveness. Here we studied the response of barley plants to As in soil amended with sulfate or elemental sulfur throughout the growing cycle. A greenhouse experiment was carried out using 4-L pots filled with clay-loam soil spiked with 60 mg kg−1 As (Na2HAsO4·7H2O). Two chemical forms of sulfur (elemental sulfur (S0) or sulfate (CaSO4·2H2O)) were applied at a dose of 1 and 3 Mg ha−1, respectively, and two previously seeded barley plants were transplanted in each pot, using eight pots per treatment. At the end of the growing cycle, the biomass, nutrients, and metal(loid) content, as well as several physiological and biochemical parameters of the plants were analyzed. Moreover, the effect of the treatments on soil characteristics was also evaluated, including soil pore water. The treatment with sulfur promoted the growth of barley plants through their vegetative cycle, enhancing photosynthesis, although biomass did not significantly increase. Both sources of S promoted the accumulation of As in the root, thereby limiting its translocation to the aerial part of the plant, sulfate being more effective (an increase of 300%) than elemental S (an increase of 82%). The addition of S decreased soil pH. Furthermore, both treatments, but particularly sulfate, increased soluble sulfate and stimulated soil biological properties. In conclusion, the application of sulfate to As-polluted soil can enhance As phytostabilization by barley plants while simultaneously improving the biological properties of the soil.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a heterogeneous group of cancers that triggers bone marrow infiltration in 20–40% of cases. Bone marrow biopsy in combination with a visual assessment of [18F]FDG PET/CT images is used to assess the marrow status. Despite the potential of both techniques, they still have limitations due to the subjectivity of visual assessment. The present study aims to develop models based on bone marrow uptake in [18F]FDG PET/CT images at the time of diagnosis to differentiate bone marrow status. For this purpose, a model trained for skeleton segmentation and based on the U-Net architecture is retrained for bone marrow segmentation from CT images. The mask obtained from this segmentation together with the [18F]FDG PET image is used to extract radiomics features with which 11 machine learning models for marrow status differentiation are trained. The segmentation model yields very satisfactory results with Jaccard and Dice index values of 0.933 and 0.964, respectively. As for the classification models, a maximum F1_score_weighted and F1_score_macro of 0.962 and 0.747, respectively, are achieved. This highlights the potential of these features for bone marrow assessment, laying the foundation for a new clinical decision support system.

Background/Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is marked by repetitive occurrences of upper airway (UA) obstruction during sleep. Morbidities impacting the metabolic, cardiovascular (CV) and neurological systems are correlated with OSA. Only a few studies have described the existence of different characteristics depending on sex and, to date, the girl phenotype in OSA pediatrics is not well known. The objective of this systematic review is to identify the specific phenotype of OSA in pediatric and adolescent females compared to males. Methods: A systematic review was performed. The terms “pediatric sleep apnea” and “sex differences” were used to look for publications using PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria: (1) peer-reviewed journal articles written in English; (2) investigations conducted on individuals diagnosed with OSA; and (3) investigations providing information about sex differences. Exclusion criteria: (1) studies carried out with individuals aged 18 years and older; (2) studies involving a sample size of fewer than 10 patients; and (3) editorials, letters and case reports. Results: Fifteen studies were included and classified in sections related to sex-based differences. Conclusions: Limited information related to sex-based OSA differences in the pediatric population exists. These differences are conditioned by hormonal status, and are minimal in the premenarcheal period. Moreover, adolescent women present a lower prevalence of obesity and craniofacial alterations, lower OSA severity related to higher UA area and earlier tonsil regression. Hyperactivity is more frequent in boys. Some studies pointed to a higher risk of high diastolic blood pressure in girls than in boys.

Mycotoxin research is facing unprecedented challenges, starting from the urgent need to cope with the consequences of climate change, the global shortage of grain due to unstable political scenarios, and the major transformation of the supply chains after the COVID-19 pandemic. In this scenario, the mycotoxin contamination of human and animal foods is still unavoidable, thus representing a major challenge to global food security. Next to this, the shift to sustainable and circular food production might be accompanied by an increase in food safety issues involving mycotoxins, e.g., when new technologies are applied to reuse side streams from the food industry, it is not known if and how mycotoxins accumulate in these by-products. MycoTWIN is an EU-funded Horizon 2020 project which fosters knowledge transfer and scientific cooperation within the Mediterranean area, involving worldwide experts, decision makers, and stakeholders in the field of mycotoxigenic fungi and mycotoxins. The MycoTWIN project hosted working group meetings, whose aim was to propose operational plans and/or scientific strategic plans to shape the future research directions to better cope with these challenges. In the working group cycle “Future proof approaches for the management of toxigenic fungi and associated mycotoxins along the food chain”, a multi-actor group was guided in co-creation exercises to elaborate on future research directions and propose relevant actions to be implemented for the present to long-term time periods. The discussion focused on three main topics relevant to the assessment and management of risks associated with mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi: (i) needs for the harmonization of molecular and chemical methods and data analysis, (ii) from lab research to marketable solutions: how to fill the gap, and (iii) gaps in data quality for risk assessment.

Citrus trees, particularly oranges, are a highly significant plant genus due to their consumption as fresh produce and the multiple compounds derived from them, which are extensively used in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Despite recent advancements, the understanding of metabolic processes in the Citrus genus remains limited, especially in the context of variable agricultural practices. This study aimed to investigate the metabolomic evolution in leaves of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) cultivated under different conditions over two key developmental periods: pre-winter (t1) and spring sprouting and flowering (t2). Using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H-NMR) spectroscopy, this research identified 27 key metabolites across five distinct cultivation treatments (T0, T1, T2, T3, T4), including amino acids, organic acids, and sugars, and their variation over time. T0 represents the traditional crop of the control plot, while T1, T2, T3, and T4 incorporate different strategies aimed at water-saving, such as the use of weed control mesh and subsurface drainage systems, all designed to improve profitability and crop efficiency under the same soil and climatic conditions. The treatments were evaluated for their impact on plant growth parameters such as height, trunk diameter, and flower production, with a focus on reducing water usage without compromising crop performance. The results indicate that the use of weed control mesh significantly improves plant growth, increases flower production, and stabilizes key metabolite levels, contributing to a concept termed “plant metabolomic homeostasis.” These findings are particularly relevant in regions like southeastern Spain, where water scarcity is a major concern. The study provides compelling evidence that the implementation of weed control mesh in orange cultivation can enhance water efficiency, promote healthier plant development, and maintain metabolic stability under variable growing conditions. These results suggest that such agricultural practices could be recommended for broader commercial application in citrus cultivation to improve sustainability and crop profitability.

Background: European countries have included healthcare workers (HCWs) among priority groups for COVID-19 vaccination. We established a multi-country hospital network to measure the SARS-CoV-2 incidence and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines among HCWs against laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: HCWs from 19 hospitals in 10 countries participated in a dynamic prospective cohort study, providing samples for SARS-CoV-2 testing at enrolment and during weekly/fortnightly follow-up. We measured the incidence during pre-Delta (2 May–6 September 2021), Delta (7 September–14 December 2021), and Omicron (15 December 2021–2 May 2023) waves. Using Cox regression, we measured the relative vaccine effectiveness (rVE) of the first COVID-19 booster dose versus primary course alone during Delta and Omicron waves. Results: We included a total of 3015 HCWs. Participants were mostly female (2306; 79%), with a clinical role (2047; 68%), and had a median age of 44 years. The overall incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection was 3.01/10,000 person-days during pre-Delta, 4.21/10,000 during Delta, and 23.20/10,000 during Omicron waves. rVE was 59% (95% CI: −25; 86) during Delta and 22% (1; 39) during Omicron waves. rVE was 51% (30; 65) 7–90 days after the first booster dose during the Omicron wave. Conclusions: The incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs was higher during the Omicron circulation period. The first COVID-19 vaccine booster provided additional protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to primary course vaccination when recently vaccinated

The effect of liver fibrosis on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients is unclear. Therefore, we performed a prospective cross-sectional study on 219 patients with T2DM and older than 60 years to evaluate the association between liver fibrosis, liver steatosis, and cognitive impairment. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to screen for MCI or dementia. Liver fibrosis was estimated using the non-invasive Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) score, and liver steatosis was assessed with the hepatic steatosis index. The mean age was 71 ± 6 years, 47% were women and according to MoCA cut-off values, 53.88% had MCI and 16.43% had dementia. A moderate or high risk of advanced fibrosis was significantly higher in patients with MCI or dementia compared to those with normal cognition (p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, a FIB-4 score greater than 1.54 was associated with MCI or dementia (p = 0.039). Multivariate analysis identified age over 70.5 years, antiplatelet medication use, and a FIB-4 score above 1.54 as the most relevant risk factors. Liver fibrosis, but not liver steatosis, is associated with MCI or dementia in older T2DM patients, suggesting that FIB-4 score might be a simple biomarker for the detection of cognitive impairment.

Since the last century, it has been shown that dedifferentiated cells of Camellia sinensis can produce catechins and other secondary metabolites under in vitro conditions, with potential applications in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries. In this work, cell suspension cultures of a C. sinensis cell line (LSC-5Y) were established in a liquid medium in order to optimize the biomass productivity, catechin monomer (GC, EGC, C, EC, CG, and ECG) and alkaloid (TB and CAF) productivity. The following factors were evaluated: concentration of growth regulators (BA and IBA), inoculum size, age of the cell line, light exposure, and effect of biotic elicitors (MeJA and extracts of Ciborinia camelliae). GC, EGC, and ECG increased approximately 1.80-fold when the auxin IBA concentration was increased from 0.1 to 2.0 mg/L. In addition, better productivity of EGC, C, EC, and CAF was achieved by using inoculum densities between 50 and 100 g/L. Although lower inoculum densities (25 g/L) showed a higher growth rate (0.20 d−1), the use of inoculum densities higher than 25 g/L favors a 2–4-fold increase in total catechin (TC) productivity, with maximum productivity being reached after 21 days of culture. However, the cell line showed instability in TC productivity: in the short term (in three successive subcultures), the coefficient of variation was 32.80%, and catechin production capacity was 2.5 years with maximum productivity at 0.5 years. Finally, it was observed that ethanol, used as an elicitor solvent, has a strong elicitor effect capable of increasing the accumulation of catechins up to 5.24 times compared to the treatment without an elicitor.

In recent years, the teaching and learning of history have been transformed by the incorporation of active methodologies and digital tools. Virtual reality (VR) is one such tool that is being increasingly used in classrooms. It allows students to visit and experience spaces from other historical periods, even those that have been lost. However, due to its relatively slow adoption in formal educational settings, there is still a paucity of scientific references where this type of experience has been empirically tested to prove its potential benefits. Further research on this issue is therefore needed. This study presents a comparative analysis of the didactic use of historical heritage from the Roman period using two different methodological strategies: an educational visit to a museum and a virtual tour via electronic devices. The main objective is to compare the effectiveness of these two methods in terms of usability, learning outcomes, and emotional responses. The study was conducted with 51 primary school teachers in training. Data were collected using two ad hoc questionnaires, which were based on a previous one. A hybrid analysis methodology was adopted, with SPSS used for interpreting the quantitative data and Atlas Ti for the qualitative information. The results indicate that the two methodologies were perceived by future teachers as valuable resources for learning and teaching history. The emotions they evoked were primarily curiosity, joy, and motivation, with only minor occurrences of frustration, nervousness, or fear. The experience gained from this first application will make it possible to extend the study to other educational levels, to enrich the conclusions obtained and to evaluate the potential scope of using this combination of methods to develop historical competences and improve heritage education.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced museums to rethink their activity in the context of social media, thus generating new ways of communicating and educating about the heritage they preserve. This article explores the indissoluble relationship established between these emerging edu-communication models and the spaces destined to safeguard the intangible cultural heritage (ICH), since the latter is a sociocultural phenomenon whose museumization requires education and civic participation. In order to determine to what extent museum edu-communication inspired by the co-creative paradigm can be extended into formal teaching contexts for the generation of heritage bonds and communities around ICH, two cases produced at the J. Trepat Factory Museum in Tàrrega (Spain) are analyzed through an autoethnographic approach. Both examples encourage a reflection on how the co-creative paradigm makes it possible to raise awareness and involve the entire community in the safeguarding of heritage, while at the same time promoting the expansion and reformulation of the institution’s proposals. We conclude that the integration of this approach into formal pedagogical practices contributes to overcoming some of the limitations of non-formal and informal edu-communication, as well as to generating a rhizomatic identization around ICH.

In 2015, Catalonia introduced sickle cell disease (SCD) screening in its newborn screening (NBS) program along with standard-of-care treatments like penicillin, hydroxyurea, and anti-pneumococcal vaccination. Few studies have assessed the clinical impact of introducing NBS programs on SCD patients. We analyzed the incidence of SCD and related hemoglobinopathies in Catalonia and the change in clinical events occurring after introducing NBS. Screening 506,996 newborns from 2015 to 2022, we conducted a retrospective multicenter study including 100 screened (SG) and 95 unscreened (UG) SCD patients and analyzed SCD-related clinical events over the first six years of life. We diagnosed 160 cases of SCD, with an incidence of 1 in 3169 newborns. The SG had a significantly lower median age at diagnosis (0.1 y vs. 1.68 y, p < 0.0001), and initiated penicillin prophylaxis (0.12 y vs. 1.86 y, p < 0.0001) and hydroxyurea treatment earlier (1.42 y vs. 4.5 y, p < 0.0001). The SG experienced fewer median SCD-related clinical events (vaso-occlusive crisis, acute chest syndrome, infections of probable bacterial origin, acute anemia requiring transfusion, acute splenic sequestration, and pathological transcranial Doppler echography) per year of follow-up (0.19 vs. 0.77, p < 0.0001), a reduced number of annual emergency department visits (0.37 vs. 0.76, p < 0.0001), and fewer hospitalizations (0.33 vs. 0.72, p < 0.0001). SCD screening in Catalonia’s NBS program has effectively reduced morbidity and improved affected children’s quality of life.

Blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) is vital for patient monitoring, particularly in clinical settings. Traditional SpO2 estimation methods have limitations, which can be addressed by analyzing photoplethysmography (PPG) signals with artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, analyzed 183 unique references from WOS, PubMed, and Scopus, with 26 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The review examined AI models, key features, oximeters used, datasets, tested saturation intervals, and performance metrics while also assessing bias through the QUADAS-2 criteria. Linear regression models and deep neural networks (DNNs) emerged as the leading AI methodologies, utilizing features such as statistical metrics, signal-to-noise ratios, and intricate waveform morphology to enhance accuracy. Gaussian Process models, in particular, exhibited superior performance, achieving Mean Absolute Error (MAE) values as low as 0.57% and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) as low as 0.69%. The bias analysis highlighted the need for better patient selection, reliable reference standards, and comprehensive SpO2 intervals to improve model generalizability. A persistent challenge is the reliance on non-invasive methods over the more accurate arterial blood gas analysis and the limited datasets representing diverse physiological conditions. Future research must focus on improving reference standards, test protocols, and addressing ethical considerations in clinical trials. Integrating AI with traditional physiological models can further enhance SpO2 estimation accuracy and robustness, offering significant advancements in patient care.

Background/Objectives: Autistic adults exhibit core and comorbid features that can have an impact on their daily functioning and lead to considerable psychological distress. Significant and consistent associations have been identified between autism characteristics—restricted repetitive behaviors and sensory features—and high levels of stress and anxiety. For a better understanding of the issue, it is necessary to consider the cognitive aspects that can help explain variations in stress and anxiety levels among adults with autism. We therefore aimed to model the contributions of worry and intolerance of uncertainty on the relationship between autism characteristics (sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviors) and psychological distress (stress and anxiety). Methods: The sample comprised 144 autistic individuals with a mean age of 35.15 (SD = 11.44). They participated in the study by completing an online questionnaire to assess the study variables. Most of the participants reported being diagnosed with Asperger syndrome (63.6%) or Level 1 autism spectrum disorder (27.1%). Results: The model fit index values tested through path analysis indicated a good fit (χ2 = 5.65; p = 0.13 ns; CFI = 0.993; NFI = 0.985; RMSEA = 0.079; SRMR = 0.025) and identified worry and intolerance of uncertainty as significant mediating variables within a comprehensive explanatory model. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of worry and intolerance of uncertainty as specific targets in interventions aimed at improving stress and anxiety problems in autistic adults.

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions in the context of 3D printing, a rapidly advancing technology that is transforming manufacturing processes. As the adoption of 3D printing grows, concerns regarding its potential impact on indoor air quality have emerged. This research addresses these concerns by investigating the risks associated with VOC emissions and proposing effective mitigation strategies. Using a robust methodology, filament and resin-based 3D printers were employed alongside VOC sampling equipment (Tenax tubes and personal pumps) to assess emissions. A detailed analysis of 49 VOCs revealed variable concentrations across different printing materials, with ethyl acetate being the dominant compound in resin printing and decanal in filament printing. While individual VOC levels were below 1% of occupational exposure limits, total VOC concentrations frequently exceeded the recommended indoor threshold of 200 µg/m3, particularly in resin-based processes. This raises concerns about the combined effects of multiple VOCs, some of which are known carcinogens. These findings underscore the need for further investigation into the cumulative health impacts of prolonged exposure to multiple VOCs. The study also emphasises the importance of accounting for both facility-specific conditions and material emissions to fully understand the environmental and health consequences of 3D printing. Preventative measures, such as enclosing 3D printers and equipping them with extraction systems, are recommended to safeguard user health.

Rapidly escalating energy demands have spurred a relentless quest for innovative materials and methodologies in energy storage technologies. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as promising candidates for energy storage applications owing to their customizable structure and inherent properties, including enduring porosity and expansive surface area. In this study, we introduce imine-based COF aerogels fashioned into flexible COF electrodes, employing redox electrolytes based on hydroquinone (HQ) dissolved in H2SO4 aqueous solution and 0.25 M TBAPF6 at concentration in acetonitrile. This strategic selection of electrolytes aims to augment capacitance and energy density when compared to non-redox electrolytes. Remarkably, our COF electrodes exhibit an outstanding areal capacitance of 843 mF cm−2 when utilizing HQ with 0.10 M H2SO4, operating at 1.3 mA cm−2, while maintaining approximately 100% capacity retention after 10,000 cycles. Notably, the capacitance of the 0.38 M HQ + 0.10 M H2SO4 is eight times greater than that achieved with organic electrolytes (111 mF cm−2).

The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between fine motor skills (FMSs) and visual performance. Thirty young participants with normal binocular vision performed five fine motor tasks: Purdue, Grooved, and O’Connor pegboards, a needle threading task, and a water pouring task, which were characterised by the time taken to complete the task, the number of pegs inserted, the error made in pouring the water, and the volume spilled. To evaluate visual performance, near visual acuity, near contrast sensitivity (CS), and disability glare were assessed. Fine motor skills and visual performance were assessed under monocular and binocular viewing conditions. An overall visual performance score (OVPS) and an overall fine motor skills score (OFMSS) were calculated. All visual functions measured binocularly were better than in monocular conditions, and all FMSs tasks were performed worse monocularly than binocularly (p < 0.001), except for the error made in the water pouring task (p = 0.024). There was a positive correlation between OVPS and OFMSS (rho = 0.329; p = 0.010). The regression model showed that the OFMSS can be predicted by age and CS at 21.3%. Individuals with normal binocular vision and better near visual function exhibit superior fine motor abilities. CS stands out as the visual function that has the greatest bearing on the performance of FMSs.

A 9-year-old Yorkshire terrier was brought to the emergency department for inability to maintain the correct station with acute onset. Neurological examination showed a non-ambulatory tetraparesis, spontaneous proprioceptive deficit in all limbs, and decreased flexor reflex in the forelimbs. The neurological symptoms suggested a cranial cervical spinal cord with suspicion of spinal shock. The clinical differential diagnoses included degenerative (intervertebral disc extrusion), vascular, inflammatory, or neoplastic disease. No pathological findings were evident in the hematobiochemical tests or in the radiograph examination. MRI examination of the cervical spine showed the presence of two adjacent hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusions at C3-C4 and C4-C5 tracts. Treatment included analgesic and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory therapy; movement restriction was initially necessary, followed by physiotherapy. Follow-up at 4 weeks showed complete recovery. A telephone follow-up after 3 months with the owner confirmed the absence of symptoms. This article reports the first double cervical HNPE case in a dog, adding the possibility that the disease may present in this form and the success of conservative treatment as described in the literature.

Adding essential oils in an edible coating could be an alternative for the food industry to control foodborne pathogens. In 2014, EFSA published a report highlighting the risk associated with Salmonella spp. and Norovirus in fresh and frozen berries. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an edible coating (RP-7) with carvacrol and citral on reducing the population of Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and murine Norovirus (MNV-1) in frozen strawberries and blueberries. Before evaluating the efficacy, the best method for applying the coating on fruit was studied. The immersion method was selected, with an optimal drying time of 45 min. After this, the berries were frozen and stored for one, two, three, four, and eight weeks at −18 °C. In strawberries, all bacteria were reduced to below 0.7 log cfu/strawberry in the eighth week, and the MNV-1 infectivity showed a reduction of nearly 2 logarithmic units. In blueberries, S. enterica and E. coli O157:H7 were reduced to 0.8 log cfu/blueberries within a week, and MNV-1 achieved a reduction of 0.8 logarithmic units at the end of the assay. The application of RP-7 affected the studied microorganisms in frozen strawberries and blueberries.

After a hard effort to carry out this research, we are pleased to know that it causes great interest in society and in science [...]

Background/Objectives: Currently, the prediction of disease recurrence after radical prostatectomy (RP) in localized prostate cancer (PCa) relies on clinicopathological parameters, which lack accuracy in predicting clinical outcomes. This study focused on evaluating the utility of cfDNA levels and fragmentation patterns as prognostic biomarkers in progressive prostate-specific antigen (PSA) patients, including those with persistent PSA and biochemical recurrence (BR), after primary treatment in localized PCa patients. Methods: Twenty-nine high-risk localized PCa patients were enrolled in the study between February 2022 and May 2023. Blood samples were obtained before robotic RP. cfDNA concentration and fragment size were quantified using the Quant-it PicoGreen dsDNA Assay kit and Agilent 2200 TapeStation System, respectively. Results: The mean PSA value at diagnosis was 9.4 ng/mL. Seven patients (24.1%) had stage pT2 and 22 (75.9%) pT3. Nine patients (31%) had detectable PSA at the first PSA control six weeks after surgery, and four patients (20%) had BR during a mean follow-up of 18.4 months. No associations were found between cfDNA levels or fragmentation patterns and clinicopathological data. Although not statistically significant, patients with detectable PSA levels post-surgery exhibited higher cfDNA levels and shorter fragments compared with those with undetectable PSA. Conclusions: Our study indicated a tendency toward more fragmented cfDNA levels in PCa patients with persistent PSA. Strikingly, biochemical recurrent PCa patients exhibited similar cfDNA levels and fragmentation patterns compared to non-recurrent patients. Further studies exploring liquid biopsy-derived biomarkers in localized PCa patients are needed to elucidate their clinical utility in predicting PSA persistence.

Liver cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. In Mexico, there is a high burden of liver cancer mortality in rural states, affecting both women and men equally. Thus, we aimed to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of hepatocellular cancer (HCC) by sex in Mexico. Demographic and clinical information was extracted retrospectively from the medical records of patients with HCC initially treated (2015–2022) at institutions participating in a national survey across the country. The male-to-female ratio was calculated at the national and regional levels, and the results were stratified by sex. Among 697 HCC patients, the age at diagnosis was 65.4 ± 11.9 years and 20% were diagnosed at ≥75 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.4:1, ranging from 1:1 in the northwestern and southwestern regions, to 2.1:1 in the western region. The proportion of cirrhosis was similar between the sexes; however, the etiology of cirrhosis differed: cryptogenic cirrhosis was higher in women and alcohol consumption was higher in men. Men had a higher proportion of advanced HCC, poor/undifferentiated tumors, and ≥4 nodules than women. HCC in the Mexican population affects both men and women at a 1.4:1 male-to-female ratio. This unique proportion by sex could be explained by the differences in the prevalence of risk factors across our heterogeneous country.

The red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) is a widely distributed invasive species that is listed in the Delivering Alien Invasive Species Inventory for Europe. Native to North America, it has been introduced to numerous regions, such as the Canary Islands, Spain. Previous studies have confirmed the role of this crayfish in the maintenance of several foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the main zoonotic bacterial and parasitic pathogens present in a P. clarkii population introduced to the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands, and to assess the potential risk to public health and native fauna. A total of 22 crayfish from Tenerife were analyzed using Biofire FilmArray Gastrointestinal Panels and culture–PCR methods. The results show the presence of Plesiomonas shigelloides, Shigella/enteroinvasive Escherichia coli, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella ser. Enteritidis, Salmonella ser. Typhimurium, and Salmonella ser. Typhi. These results demonstrate the presence of a variety of pathogenic bacteria in the red swamp crayfish in Tenerife that represent a significant concern in terms of public health and conservation. Implementing educational campaigns to inform the community about the risks associated with handling and consuming contaminated crayfish, as well as initiatives for the restoration of the contaminated ecosystem, are necessary to prevent the transmission of the foodborne pathogens.

This work aims to amplify the fluorescence of (Z)-4-hetarylidene-5(4H)-oxazolones 1 by suppression of the hula-twist non-radiative deactivation pathway by C^N-orthopalladation of the 4-hetarylidene ring. Different (Z)-4-hetarylidene-2-phenyl-5(4H)-oxazolones, 1a–1c, prepared by the Erlenmeyer–Plöchl method, have been studied. The orthopalladation of (Z)-2-phenyl-4-(5-thiazolylmethylene)-5(4H)-oxazolone (1a) takes place by C-H bond activation of the H4 of the heterocycle and C^N-chelation, giving the dinuclear trifluoroacetate derivative 2a. By further metathesis of bridging ligands in 2a, complexes containing the orthometalated oxazolone and a variety of ligands 3a–5a, were prepared. The study of the photophysical properties of 1a–5a shows that the bonding of the Pd metal to the 4-hetaryliden-5(4H)-oxazolone does not promote, in these cases, an increase in fluorescence. Interestingly, the orthopalladation of (Z)-2-phenyl-4-(4-thiazolylmethylene)-5(4H)-oxazolone (1b) gives orthopalladated 2b, where the incorporation of the Pd to the oxazolone takes place by C-H bond activation of the ortho-H2 of the 2-phenyl group, ring opening of the oxazolone heterocycle and simultaneous N,N-bonding of the N atoms of the thiazole ring and the generated benzamide fragment. This N^N^C-tridentate dianionic bonding mode is obtained for the first time in oxazolones. Despite a similar lock of the hula-twist deactivation, 2b does not show fluorescence.

The cochineal insect Dactylopius coccus Costa (Hemiptera) has cultural and economic value because it produces carminic acid that is used commercially. In this study, distinct fungi were cultured from dissected tissue and identified as Penicillium, Coniochaeta, Arthrinium, Cladosporium, Microascus, Aspergillus, and Periconia. Fungi were microscopically observed inside cochineals in the gut, fat body, and ovaries. Since cochineals spend their lives attached to cactus leaves and use the sap as feed, they can obtain fungi from cacti plants. Indeed, we obtained Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Cladosporium fungi from cacti that were identical to those inside cochineals, supporting their plant origin. Fungi could be responsible for the degrading activities in the insect guts, since cellulase, pectinase, and amylase enzymatic activities in insect guts decreased in fungicide-treated cochineals. Our findings set the basis for the further study of the interactions between insects, fungi, and their host plants.

Fungi of the genus Aspergillus are widespread in the environment, where they produce large quantities of airborne conidia. Inhalation of Aspergillus spp. conidia in immunocompromised individuals can cause a wide spectrum of diseases, ranging from hypersensitivity responses to lethal invasive infections. Upon deposition in the lung epithelial surface, conidia encounter and interact with complex microbial communities that constitute the lung microbiota. The lung microbiota has been suggested to influence the establishment and growth of Aspergillus spp. in the human airways. However, the mechanisms underlying this interaction have not yet been sufficiently investigated. In this study, we aimed to enrich and isolate bacterial strains capable of inhibiting the germination and growth of A. fumigatus conidia from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples of lung transplant recipients using a novel enrichment method. This method is based on a soft agar overlay plate assay in which bacteria are directly in contact with conidia, allowing inhibition to be readily observed during enrichment. We isolated a total of five clonal bacterial strains with identical genotypic fingerprints, as shown by random amplified polymorphic DNA PCR (RAPD–PCR). All strains were identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa (strains b1–b5). The strains were able to inhibit the germination and growth of Aspergillus fumigatus in a soft agar confrontation assay, as well as in a germination multiplate assay. Moreover, when compared with ten P. aeruginosa strains isolated from expectoration through standard methods, no significant differences in inhibitory potential were observed. Additionally, we showed inhibition of A. fumigatus growth on Calu-3 cell culture monolayers. However, the isolated P. aeruginosa strains were shown to cause significant damage to the cell monolayers. Overall, although P. aeruginosa is a known opportunistic lung pathogen and antagonist of A. fumigatus, we validated this novel one-step enrichment approach for the isolation of bacterial strains antagonistic to A. fumigatus from BALF samples as a proof-of-concept. This opens up a new venue for the targeted enrichment of antagonistic bacterial strains against specific fungal pathogens.

This study addresses the features of the internal structure of the geological layers adjacent to the Polychrome Hall ceiling of the Cave of Altamira (Spain) and their link to the distribution of moisture and geological discontinuities mainly as fractures, joints, bedding planes and detachments, using 3D Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) mapping. In this research, 3D GPR data were collected with 300 MHz, 800 MHz and 1.6 GHz center frequency antennas. The data recorded with these three frequency antennas were combined to further our understanding of the layout of geological discontinuities and how they link to the moisture or water inputs that infiltrate and reach the ceiling surface where the rock art of the Polychrome Hall is located. The same 1 × 1 m2 area was adopted for 3D data acquisition with the three antennas, obtaining 3D isosurface (isoattribute-surface) images of internal distribution of moisture and structural features of the Polychrome Hall ceiling. The results derived from this study reveal significant insights into the overlying karst strata of Polychrome Hall, particularly the interface between the Polychrome Layer and the underlying Dolomitic Layer. The results show moisture patterns associated with geological features such as fractures, joints, detachments of strata and microcatchments, elucidating the mechanisms driving capillary rise and water infiltration coming from higher altitudes. The study primarily identifies areas of increased moisture content, correlating with earlier observations and enhancing our understanding of water infiltration patterns. This underscores the utility of 3D GPR as an essential tool for informing and putting conservation measures into practice. By delineating subsurface structures and moisture dynamics, this research contributes to a deeper analysis of the deterioration processes directly associated with the infiltration water both in this ceiling and in the rest of the Cave of Altamira, providing information to determine its future geological and hydrogeological evolution.

Human activity recognition is a critical task for various applications across healthcare, sports, security, gaming, and other fields. This paper presents BodyFlow, a comprehensive library that seamlessly integrates human pose estimation and multiple-person estimation and tracking, along with activity recognition modules. BodyFlow enables users to effortlessly identify common activities and 2D/3D body joints from input sources such as videos, image sets, or webcams. Additionally, the library can simultaneously process inertial sensor data, offering users the flexibility to choose their preferred input, thus facilitating multimodal human activity recognition. BodyFlow incorporates state-of-the-art algorithms for 2D and 3D pose estimation and three distinct models for human activity recognition.

The NYC Administration for Children’s Services and MDRC have partnered since 2021 to develop a rigorous research agenda leading to an impact evaluation of the Family Treatment and Rehabilitation (FT/R) model, a “home-grown” New York City intervention for families experiencing substance misuse and/or mental health challenges that put children at risk of maltreatment. This paper will describe the first phase of that research, which had two goals: (1) to refine a logic model that would result in a shared understanding of core components of the FT/R model, and (2) to create a plan for a subsequent implementation study that would enable MDRC and ACS to understand how 18 FT/R programs are implementing the model across New York City. The paper will describe the team’s orientation to this research, including centering equity in the work by prioritizing the inclusion of staff and family perspectives. Next steps in the research roadmap will be discussed, including convening a council of lived experience advisors, as well as implications for evidence-building for sustainability. This research has the long-term potential to support FT/R’s inclusion in the Family First Prevention Services Clearinghouse and ultimately, the leveraging of Title IV-E funds to support scaling of a locally developed, culturally responsive, and adaptable child welfare prevention model beyond New York City.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus ochraceous and various Penicillium species, which are known for contaminating agricultural products and posing significant health risks, which include immunotoxicity. This study aims to evaluate the potential of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with a carotenoid-enriched extract from pumpkin peel (Cucurbita maxima L.) in mitigating the toxic effects of OTA. To address the poor bioavailability and instability of carotenoids, nanoencapsulation techniques were employed to enhance their delivery and efficacy. NLCs were formulated using hydrogenated sunflower oil, pumpkin oil, and soy lecithin using hot high-pressure homogenization. The in vitro study involved co-digesting OTA-contaminated bread with an NLC formulation and assessing the impact of the encapsulated carotenoid on OTA bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and cellular toxicity using Caco-2 and Jurkat T cells. Even though no significant influence was observed on the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of OTA, carotenoid-loaded NLCs exhibited cytoprotective effects by improving cell viability and mitigating OTA-induced toxicity in both Caco-2 and Jurkat T cells. Particularly, the flow cytometry analysis highlighted the ability of carotenoids to mitigate OTA-induced cellular damage by decreasing ROS production and limiting mitochondrial mass changes. The study suggests that the encapsulation of carotenoids in NLCs represents a promising strategy to enhance their protective effects against OTA toxicity, potentially offering a novel approach to food safety and public health protection. The study underscores the potential of nanotechnology in improving the bioavailability and efficacy of natural antioxidants to mitigate mycotoxin-induced damage.