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Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies in men [...].

Background/Objectives : Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is the most common non-invasive form of breast cancer. It is not clear to what extent DCIS is a part of the hereditary breast/ovarian cancer syndrome caused by BRCA1/2 mutations. Therefore, we investigated the association of BRCA1/2 mutations in patients with DCIS and assessed their impact on survival. Methods : We studied 564 Polish women with DCIS for six alleles in BRCA1 (c.181T>G, c.5266dupC, c.4035delA, c.3700&#95;3704del5, c.68&#95;69del and c.5251C>T) and four in BRCA2 (c.658&#95;659del, c.3847&#95;3848del, c.5946del and c.7913&#95;7917del). To investigate the association of BRCA1/2 founder mutations with DCIS risk, we tested 4702 controls as a reference. To analyze survival, mutation carriers were followed for an average of 110 months. Results : A BRCA1 mutation was present in seven (1.24%) cases and in twenty-two (0.47%) controls (OR = 3.27, 95%CI 1.36 to 7.87, p = 0.01). A BRCA2 mutation was present in eight (1.42%) cases versus six (0.13%) controls (OR = 11.3, 95%CI 3.9 to 32.6, p < 0.0001). Three of the fifteen cases with BRCA1/2 mutations developed invasive ipsilateral or contralateral breast cancer, on average 6 years from the diagnosis of DCIS. There were no deaths reported among the 15 mutation carriers with DCIS. Conclusions : DCIS is a part of the hereditary breast/ovarian cancer syndrome caused by BRCA1/2 mutations. Women with DCIS should receive genetic counseling and testing for BRCA1/2 mutations. BRCA1/2 mutations may predispose women to a better DCIS prognosis, but further studies are needed.

The majority of the studies of vaporization enthalpy dealt with pure substances. Reports of this quantity for azeotropes were scarce despite that similar experimental methods could be applied in such measurements. Vaporization enthalpies of azeotropes were determined using classical methods in the past and with a method based on the enthalpy of solution recently. Since the reported results showed discrepancies that often exceeded the declared uncertainty limits, we calculated the vaporization enthalpies of 12 azeotropes at normal boiling temperature and 298.15 K using the conventional thermochemical cycle at several levels of approximation. We validated our calculation procedure and assessed the uncertainty of the results. The assessments were based on ( i ) a comparison of the calculated vaporization enthalpies with the experimental ones reported in the literature, and ( ii ) a Monte Carlo simulation involving 10 6 trials with the independent variables characterized by continuous uniform distributions. The calculated vaporization enthalpies of the azeotropes proved to be correct even if they were only roughly approximated by the mole-fraction-weighted averages of the vaporization enthalpies of pure components. Thermochemical cycle calculations provided results at least as good as the experimental vaporization enthalpies, those obtained from the enthalpies of solution in particular.

Background and Objectives : The relationships between aging, chronic diseases, and obesity remain complex and poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the impact of comorbidities on premature aging in individuals with severe obesity. Materials and Methods : This cross-sectional study included 99 bariatric patients with severe obesity (SG) and 30 healthy volunteers (HC). SG was further divided into subgroups based on comorbidity status. Various markers of biological aging, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), telomere length (TL), attention speed, executive functions, and metabolic age, were evaluated. Results : Both subgroups of patients with obesity presented elevated levels of IL-6 and CRP, shorter TLs, lower outcomes in executive functioning tests, and greater metabolic age than healthy subjects. However, no significant differences were observed between patients with obesity with and without comorbidities. This study highlighted the impact of BMI on increased inflammation and revealed that hypertension and inflammation are associated with cognitive decline. Conclusions : These findings suggest that obesity, regardless of comorbidities, contributes to premature aging. The presence of hypertension was linked to cognitive function decline, emphasizing the multifaceted implications of obesity for the aging process.

Inconel 718 (In718) is the most widely used nickel-based alloy in additive manufacturing due to its favorable processability. However, In718's high-temperature performance is not suited for the most demanding applications in the aerospace industry. Therefore, in this study, Inconel 718 powder was coated with 3% wt. rhenium (In718-Re) using AM's in situ alloying capabilities to improve high-temperature properties. The proposed alloy's mechanical performance was evaluated, focusing on the effects of post-process heat treatment and hot isostatic pressing following the laser-based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF-LB/M) processing. Static tensile tests conducted at room temperature and elevated temperatures (650 °C and 760 °C) demonstrated that the alloy has comparable strength to pure In718 according to ASTM F3055-14a-an ultimate tensile strength of 1247 MPa, yield strength of 909 MPa, and almost 2× higher elongation of 23.8%. Fatigue tests at room temperature indicated a fatigue limit below 400 MPa for 10 7 cycles. Fractographic analysis revealed that fatigue performance was primarily impacted by a lack of fusion defects inherent to the PBF-LB/M process, highlighting the need for optimized powder preparation and processing parameters to minimize defect formation. While rhenium addition shows limited benefits in Inconel 718, this study underscores the potential of in situ alloying through powder surface modification as a flexible method for incorporating high-melting-point elements into nickel-based alloys for tailored alloy design in additive manufacturing.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by increased lung vascular stiffness and impaired vessel relaxation, primarily due to reduced nitric oxide (NO) production in endothelial cells. Recent studies indicate that chloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, may help lower pulmonary arterial pressure and enhance lung vascular function. This study investigates the mechanisms underlying the chloroquine-mediated restoration of NO bioavailability in endothelial cells derived from aortopulmonary shunt lambs, a relevant model for congenital heart defect (CHD)-associated PAH. We found that NO production was significantly reduced in shunt pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs), attributable to decreased levels of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH 4 ) and diminished expression of GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GCH1), despite a slight increase in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) levels. Chloroquine robustly restored endothelial NO production, which correlated with increased BH 4 levels and restored GCH1 expression. The mechanistically upregulated carboxyl terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein (CHIP) in shunt PAECs is responsible for heightened GCH1 degradation, and chloroquine disrupted the assembly of the GCH1-HSP70-CHIP complex to preserve cellular GCH1. Similarly, another autophagy inhibitor, bafilomycin A1, demonstrated comparable effects. These findings suggest that autophagy inhibition can effectively enhance NO synthesis in endothelial cells experiencing depleted NO bioavailability, presenting a potential therapeutic strategy for managing PAH.

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and multiple sclerosis (MS), which are a consequence of the progressive loss of neuronal function and structure, cause significant cognitive impairment. The incidence of these diseases in the world's population is constantly increasing as a result of an aging population. Although genetic and environmental factors are most often mentioned as the pathogenetic factors of these diseases, increasing evidence points to the important role of proper nutrition in the prevention and support of the treatment of these disorders. A healthy, balanced diet can mitigate the risks associated with the risk factors mentioned above and slow the progression of the disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Vitamins B, D, E, C, K, and A have been shown to support cognitive functions and protect the nervous system. This review demonstrates the importance of vitamins in preventing and supporting the therapy of neurodegenerative diseases. Information regarding the health-promoting properties of these vitamins must be effectively communicated to consumers seeking to protect their health, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. Consequently, this review also examines the authorized health claims under EU food law related to these vitamins, assessing their role in promoting awareness of the vitamins' potential benefits for neuroprotection and the management of neurodegenerative diseases.

The research described in this paper focuses on key aspects of learning from data concerning the symptoms of depression and how to prevent it. The computer support system designed for that purpose combines data privacy protection from various sources and uncertainty modeling, especially for incomplete data. The mentioned aspects are key to real-life medical diagnostic problems. From among the different paradigms of machine learning, a federated learning-based approach was chosen as the most suitable to take up the challenge. Importantly, computer support in medical diagnostics often requires algorithms that are appropriate for processing data expressing uncertainty and that can ensure high-quality diagnostics. To achieve this goal, a novel decision-making algorithm is used that employs interval entropy measures based on the theory of interval-valued fuzzy sets. Such an approach enables one to take into account diagnostic uncertainty, express it exactly, and interpret it easily. Furthermore, the applied classification technique offers the possibility of a straightforward explanation of the diagnosis, which is a situation required by many physicians. The presented solution combines innovative technological approaches with practical user needs, fostering the development of more effective tools in mental health prevention.

BPC 157, known as the "Body Protection Compound", is a pentadecapeptide isolated from human gastric juice that demonstrated its pleiotropic beneficial effects in various preclinical models mimicking medical conditions, such as tissue injury, inflammatory bowel disease, or even CNS disorders. Unlike many other drugs, BPC 157 has a desirable safety profile, since only a few side effects have been reported following its administration. Nevertheless, this compound was temporarily banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in 2022 (it is not currently listed as banned by the WADA). However, it has not been approved for use in standard medicine by the FDA and other global regulatory authorities due to the absence of sufficient and comprehensive clinical studies confirming its health benefits in humans. In this review, we summarize information on the biological activities of BPC 157, with particular reference to its mechanism of action and probable toxicity. This generated the attention of experts, as BPC 157 has been offered for sale on many websites. We also present recent interest in BPC 157 as reflected in a number of patent applications and granted patents.

The aim of this work was to assess the influence of the parameters of the hot isostatic pressing (HIP) process and the direction of printing of Ti-6Al-4V samples made using the laser-engineered net shaping (LENS) method on strength properties. The tests were carried out using a static testing machine and a digital image correlation system. Samples before and after the HIP process were tested. The HIP process was carried out at a temperature of 1150 °C, a heating time of 240 min and various pressure values of 500, 1000 and 1500 bar. Based on the comparative analysis of the test results, it has been shown that the ability to adjust the parameters of the HIP process has a significant impact on the final mechanical properties of the samples.

The aim of these in vitro studies was to determine and compare the mechanical and tribological performance of two commercially available thermoplastic materials, namely BioHPP and Biocetal, used in dental prosthetics. In order to perform the comparative tests of both materials, the dog-bone shaped samples were formed by an injection molding process as in standard polymer materials research, wherein Biocetal samples constituted the research group, and BioHPP samples served as a control group. In the presented studies, their mechanical parameters were reported and analyzed: namely, Shore's hardness, unnotched impact strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, as well as abrasive wear resistance, obtained within appropriate tribological and mechanical tests. The Shapiro-Wilk test, Q-Q plot analysis, Grubbs test and Student's t -test ( p < 0.05) were used to statistically evaluate the results. The experimental results revealed that BioHPP material is characterized by higher hardness, impact strength, bending strength, and also lower "wet" abrasion wear if compared to Biocetal performance. However, it is subject to higher abrasive wear under "dry" conditions and reveals higher stiffness as well as lower ability to deform, which could affect a patient's comfort during application. BioHPP, despite being a high-performance polymer material, also has some drawbacks that may affect the poorer long-term use of dentures in people producing less saliva.

Background/objectives: Cucumber ( Cucumis sativus ) provides a model for exploring the molecular basis of sex determination, particularly the regulation of floral organ differentiation through gene expression. This complex process is modulated by epigenetic factors, such as histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs), which respectively activate and repress gene transcription by adding or removing acetyl groups from histone proteins. Despite their known functions, the roles of HATs and HDACs throughout cucumber's floral developmental stages remain unclear., Methods: In this study, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of HAT and HDAC gene families in cucumber, examining their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, protein domains, and expression profiles across various stages of floral development., Results: We identified 36 CsHAT and 12 CsHDAC genes, grouping them into families with evolutionary counterparts in other plant species. RNA sequencing revealed stage-specific expression patterns, suggesting dynamic roles for these gene families in floral organ development., Conclusions: These findings contribute valuable insights into the epigenetic regulation of gene expression in cucumber flower formation, presenting avenues for further research on the genetic control of plant reproductive development.

This research explored the formation and effects of carbon layers on Grade 5 titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) surfaces during a microfinishing process using both traditional abrasive films and graphite-coated abrasive films. The study tried to appraise the effect of using graphite-coated films in the microfinishing process concerning surface roughness. Microfinishing with an abrasive film impregnated with diamond particles and an additional coating of graphite was performed to minimize surface roughness and enhance the overall performance of the surface. As a result, it was shown that after processing, the uniform carbon texture formed by the graphite-coated film significantly improved the lubricating and thermal properties. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis confirmed the homogeneity of carbon distribution over the whole treated surface. Moreover, the graphite-coated films enabled us to obtain smoother surfaces with improved tribological properties. The study therefore concluded that the inclusion of graphite in the abrasive films is necessary for effecting surface modification in light of considerable improvements in surface quality and performance, especially where the wear needs to be reduced and the integrity of the surface maximized.

The natural aging process of the human organism leads to both physiological and pathological changes, including tooth loss. This requires dental prosthetic interventions aimed at restoring patients' quality of life. The use of such prostheses necessitates selection of sufficiently strong, aesthetic and biocompatible materials, which also offer ease of shaping. The market for materials used in prosthetic applications offers a wide array of options; however, selection of the most suitable material for specific clinical scenarios can be challenging for dental professionals. This paper continues the comprehensive investigation of the physiochemical and mechanical/functional properties of two commonly used prosthetic-Biocetal and BioHPP-offering a comparative analysis of their characteristics to provide valuable insights for dentists and prosthodontists. The study focuses on in vitro analyses of physiochemical parameters, including density, water sorption, contact angle, and surface roughness. The structure of the materials was examined via scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, microbiological studies were performed using strains of Staphylococcus aureus , Enterococcus faecalis , Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans . Statistical analysis was performed using Shapiro-Wilk test, Q-Q plot analysis, Grubbs test, and Student's T-test ( p < 0.05). The findings indicate that BioHPP demonstrates superior physiochemical and microbiological properties. However, Biocetal exhibit better surface characteristics. Despite its high performance, BioHPP presents certain drawbacks, which may influence dentists' material choice in specific clinical cases, particularly for certain prosthetic restorations.

Migraine with aura (MwA) is a common and severely disabling neurological disorder, characterised by transient yet recurrent visual disturbances, including scintillating scotomas, flickering photopsias, and complex geometric patterns. These episodic visual phenomena significantly compromise daily functioning, productivity, and overall quality of life. Despite extensive research, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain only partially understood. Cortical spreading depression (CSD), a propagating wave of neuronal and glial depolarisation, has been identified as a central process in MwA. This phenomenon is triggered by ion channel dysfunction, leading to elevated intracellular calcium levels and excessive glutamate release, which contribute to widespread cortical hyperexcitability. Genetic studies, particularly involving the CACNA gene family, further implicate dysregulation of calcium channels in the pathogenesis of MwA. Recent advances in neuroimaging, particularly functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), have provided critical insights into the neurophysiology of MwA. These results support the central role of CSD as a basic mechanism behind MwA and imply that cortical dysfunction endures beyond brief episodes, possibly due to chronic neuronal dysregulation or hyperexcitability. The visual cortex of MwA patients exhibits activation patterns in comparison to other neuroimaging studies, supporting the possibility that it is a disease-specific biomarker. Its distinctive sensory and cognitive characteristics are influenced by a complex interplay of cortical, vascular, and genetic factors, demonstrating the multifactorial nature of MwA. We now know much more about the pathophysiology of MwA thanks to the combination of molecular and genetic research with sophisticated neuroimaging techniques like arterial spin labelling (ASL) and fMRI. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge and analyse molecular and neurophysiological targets, providing a foundation for developing targeted therapies to modulate cortical excitability, restore neural network stability, and alleviate the burden of migraine with aura. The most important and impactful research in our field has been the focus of this review, which highlights important developments and their contributions to the knowledge and treatment of migraine with aura.

Background: Many studies, for example, on taste-visual dissonance, have shown that the influence of the visual cortex on taste sensation is enormous. The presented work aims to investigate, using fNIRS, whether a taste stimulus, in this case, the taste of bitter, also causes stimulation of the visual cortex in the fNIRS study., Methods: fNIRS was used to examine 51 participants (204 examinations, 9996 records), collecting signals from the left hemisphere. Differences between the maximum and minimum changes in oxyHb concentrations (ΔoxyHb) for the areas of the brain cortex considered responsible for recording visual and gustatory signals were analyzed. Protocols I, II, III, and IV-activation with distillate water, coffee with lower concentration, reference (no stimulation), and coffee with higher concentration, respectively, were used., Results: We recorded high signals for teste activation on channels covering the gustatory cortex, which confirms the correctness of the choice of research method. As expected, a significant statistical difference was observed between protocols I, II, and IV and reference III (without stimulation). What seems important is the fact that we also received high signals for the channels 45-49, which cover the visual cortex. The statistical analysis shows no differences between protocols I, II, and IV (different taste activation-water, coffee A, and coffee B) for specific channels for analyzing regions of interest. As a result of the analysis of the correlation between the subjective bitterness assessment solutions and the signal ΔoxyHb height, it was observed that a statistically significant correlation, although weak, occurs only for 14 and gustatory channels, only for coffee with a higher concentration. Additionally, the only statistically significant difference between women and men was observed in Protocol I (water), where the ΔoxyHb signal was twice as high in women compared to men., Conclusions: In conclusion, we can clearly state that the senses of sight and taste work closely together. Moreover, this cooperation is not one-sided: while visual activation influences taste perception, interestingly, a taste stimulus can also generate a hemodynamic response, activating the visual cortex.

This study presents the optimization of the friction stir welding (FSW) process using polynomial regression to predict the maximum tensile load (MTL) of welded joints. The experimental design included varying spindle speeds from 600 to 2200 rpm and welding speeds from 100 to 350 mm/min over 28 experimental points. The resulting MTL values ranged from 1912 to 15,336 N. A fifth-degree polynomial regression model was developed to fit the experimental data. Diagnostic tests, including the Shapiro-Wilk test and kurtosis analysis, indicated a non-normal distribution of the MTL data. Model validation showed that fifth-degree polynomial regression provided a robust fit with high fitted and predicted R 2 values, indicating strong predictive power. Hill-climbing optimization was used to fine-tune the welding parameters, identifying an optimal spindle speed of 1100 rpm and a welding speed of 332 mm/min, which was predicted to achieve an MTL of 16,852 N. Response surface analysis confirmed the effectiveness of the identified parameters and demonstrated their significant influence on the MTL. These results suggest that the applied polynomial regression model and optimization approach are effective tools for improving the performance and reliability of the FSW process.

Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a developmental defect that affects the enamel tissue of permanent teeth. Clinicians may observe a range of opacities in the affected teeth, varying from white to creamy, yellow, and brown. Of particular interest is an etiology of MIH that has not been rigorously elucidated. Researchers believe that there are many potential etiological factors with strong genetic and/or epigenetic influence. The primary factors contributing to the risk of MIH development include specific medical conditions and circumstances. These encompass prematurity, cesarean delivery, perinatal hypoxia, and various health issues such as measles, urinary tract infections, otitis media, gastrointestinal disorders, bronchitis, kidney diseases, pneumonia, and asthma. Although genetic research in this area has received substantial attention, the investigation of epigenetic factors remains comparatively underexplored. Special attention is given to genes and their protein products involved in amelogenesis. Examples of such genes are AMELX , AMBN , ENAM , TUFT1 , FAM83H , and MMP20 . The median relative FAM83H gene expression in the control group was 0.038 (0.031-0.061) and 0.045 (0.032-0.087) in the study group in buccal swabs. The median relative TUFT1 gene expression in the control group was 0.328 (0.247-0.456) and 0.704 (0.334-1.183) in the study group in buccal swabs. Furthermore, children with MIH had significantly higher TUFT1 expression levels compared to the control group ( p -value = 0.0043). Alterations in the expression of the TUFT1 and FAM83H genes could be contributing factors to MIH pathogenesis. Nonetheless, further investigation is essential to comprehensively elucidate the roles of all analyzed genes in the pathogenesis of MIH.

High-entropy materials, characterized by complex chemical compositions, are difficult to identify and describe structurally. These problems are encountered at the composition design stage when choosing an effective method for predicting the final phase structure of the alloy, which affects its functional properties. In this work, the effects of introducing oxide precipitates into the matrix of a high-entropy TiCoCrFeMn alloy to strengthen ceramic particles were studied. The particles were introduced by the ex situ method, such as TiO 2 in the form of anatase, and by the in situ method, consisting of the reconstruction of CuO into TiO 2 . In both cases, it was assumed that after the homogenization process, carried out at 1000 °C, ceramic precipitates in the rutile phase, commonly considered a stable allotropic form of TiO 2 , would be obtained. However, the microscopic observations and XRD analyses, supported by EDS chemical composition microanalysis and EBSD backscattered electron diffraction, clearly revealed that, regardless of the method of introducing oxides, the final strengthening phase obtained was a mixture of TiO 2 in the form of anatase with the Magnelli phase of Ti 2 O 3 . In this work, phase reconstruction in the Ti-O system was analyzed using changes in the Gibbs free energy of the identified oxide phases.

Human serum albumin (HSA) plays a fundamental role in the human body, including the transport of exogenous and endogenous substances. HSA is also a biopolymer with a great medical and pharmaceutical potential. Due to nontoxicity and biocompatibility, this protein can be used as a nanocarrier. 10-(2'-Pyrimidyl)-3,6-diazaphenothiazine (10-Pyr-3,6-DAPT) is a phenothiazine showing high anticancer potential in vitro against glioma, melanoma and breast cancer cells. Additionally, this compound is characterized by selectivity of action towards MCF-7 breast cancer and has low cytotoxicity towards normal cells. Considering the promising pharmacological potential of this compound and using spectroscopic techniques, HSA and human serum albumin nanoparticles (HSA-NP) were tested as carriers of this molecule. Based on the obtained data and the appropriate mathematical models (Stern-Volmer and Klotz models), it can be concluded that 10-Pyr-3,6-DAPT probably forms a weak (K a = (5.24 ± 0.57) × 10 4 and K a = (4.67 ± 0.59) × 10 4 ) for excitation wavelengths λ ex 275 nm and λ ex 295 nm, respectively) static complex (k q > 10 10 ) with HSA (at Sudlow site II (subdomain IIIA), and the phenomenon of it having both strong therapeutic and toxic effects is possible. High encapsulation efficiency of 10-Pyr-3,6-DAPT into the HSA-NPs was obtained, and the changes in albumin secondary structure due to the presence of 10-Pyr-3,6-DAPT were registered. Based on the data presented, it can be concluded that due to the high toxic effects of 10-Pyr-3,6-DAPT, a better carrier may be HSA-NPs.

The dynamically developing field of implantology requires researchers to search for new materials and solutions. In this study, TiNbZr samples were investigated as an alternative for popular, but potentially hazardous TiAl6V4. Samples were etched, sandblasted, subjected to PEO, and covered in AgNP suspension. Simultaneously, SEM images were taken, and the wettability and roughness of the surface were measured. Samples covered in AgNPs were subjected to biological trials. A six-day measurement of human fibroblast proliferation was conducted to assess biocompatibility, and the population of E. coli and S. aureus was measured over eight hours. Results showed that the TiNbZr PEO surface is biocompatible with human fibroblast cells and promotes growth. However, deposited AgNPs exhibited only slight effectiveness in decreasing bacterial growth over the first two hours. The results suggest that the method of surface preparation is sufficient and might promote osseointegration. On the other hand, more efficient and reliable methods of application of AgNPs should be researched.

Asthma is a major non-communicable disease whose pathogenesis is still not fully elucidated. One of the asthma research models is precision-cut lung slices (PCLSs), and among the therapeutic options, miRNA molecules are of great interest. The aim of our study was to investigate whether inhibition of miR-223-3p and miR328a-3p affects the inflammatory response in PCLSs derived from a rat with HDM-induced allergic inflammation and a control rat. We generated rat PCLSs and transfected them with miR-223-3p and miR-328a-3p inhibitors. RNA was isolated from PCLSs and analyzed by qPCR. We also examined the proteins in the culture medium using the Magnetic Luminex Assay. The comparison between miRNA-transfected PCLSs and non-transfected controls showed significant differences in the expression of several genes associated with allergic inflammation, including Il-33 , Ccl5 , Prg2 and Tslp , in both the rat with allergic inflammation and the control rat. In the culture medium, we found no significant differences in protein levels between rat with allergic inflammation and the control. Our study highlighted some important issues: the need to extend the model by including more biological replicates, the need to standardize culture conditions, and the need to consider co-transfection with several miRNA inhibitors when modifying miRNAs expression in the PCLS model.

The use of scaffolds for osteochondral tissue regeneration requires an appropriate selection of materials and manufacturing techniques that provide the basis for supporting both cartilage and bone tissue formation. As scaffolds are designed to replicate a part of the replaced tissue and ensure cell growth and differentiation, implantable materials have to meet various biological requirements, e.g., biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties. Osteoconductive materials such as tricalcium phosphate ceramics and some biodegradable polymers appear to be a perfect choice. The present work evaluates the structural, mechanical, thermal, and functional properties of a shape memory terpolymer modified with β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP). A new approach is using the developed materials for 4D printing, with a particular focus on its applicability in manufacturing medical implants. In this study, the manufacturing parameters of the scaffold components were developed. The scaffolds were examined via scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and mechanical testing. The cytotoxicity result was obtained with an MTT assay, and the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was measured. The structural and microstructural investigations confirmed the integration of β-TCP into the filament matrix and scaffolds. Thermal stability was enhanced as β-TCP delayed depolymerization of the polymer matrix. The shape memory studies demonstrated effective recovery. The in vitro cell culture studies revealed the significantly increased cell viability and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of the β-TCP-modified terpolymer after 3 weeks. The developed terpolymer can be tailored for applications in which partial shape recovery is acceptable, such as bone scaffolds.

One of the main objectives of the ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) technique is to reduce moisture in detection systems, which causes the formation of ion clusters and ion water and a reduction in formed clusters' activity. Thus, one of the methods limiting moisture in a sampling injection system is to use hydrophobic polymeric membranes. The use of membranes with high permeability relative to the analysed organic compounds is required, including toxic agents in air (TAAs). Such requirements align with those of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes. Unfortunately, thin PDMS membranes are not mechanically resistant. In this study, relatively thin PDMS membranes were reinforced with fine mesh fabric supports. These supports were chemically modified with selected oligoglycol derivatives and finally coated with PDMS. The obtained membranes were tested for water permeability and TAA simulants.

The aim of the work was to investigate the influence of the machining parameters on the surface roughness and tool wear during slot milling of a polyurethane block (PUB). In the experiment, the influence of the cutting speed, the feed per tooth and the depth of cut on the roughness Ra and Rz of the milling slot surface and wear of the end mill was analyzed. A three-axis CNC milling machine Emco Concept Mill 55 was used to perform the study. After the machining, the values of parameters Ra and Rz were measured using the Hommel Tester T500 induction profilometer. Three polyurethane materials of different densities were considered: the Labelite 45, the Prolab 65 and the LAB 1000. The wear of the end mill was also examined for each of the tested materials by a workshop microscope. In conclusion, it was indicated how and to what extent the variation in the machining parameters affects the surface geometrical structure of a polyurethane plate. Moreover, the research results for the tested materials were compared with each other.

Reynoutria japonica Houtt. is the source of various phenolic compounds: phenolic acids, flawan-3-ols, and stilbenes, with a broad range of biological activity. The rhizome (underground organ of these plants) is abundant in secondary metabolites but, in natural conditions, may accumulate various toxic substances (such as heavy metals) from the soil. The principal objective of this research was to produce transformed cultures of R. japonica hairy roots that would serve as a valuable source of phenolic compounds, independent of environmental resources. The transformation was performed using a variety of wild strains of Rhizobium rhizogenes bacteria, of which only strain A4 (ATCC 31798) proved effective. The molecular characterization of transformed clones was performed using PCR. The biometric parameters (growth index and dry weight content), phenolic compounds accumulation (DAD-HPLC), antioxidant capacity (DPPH, CUPRAC), and bactericidal properties against Staphylococcus aureus with various sensitivity to antibiotics were evaluated. Two obtained transformed clones (RJ 9 and 30) exhibited the incorporation of the entire bacterial T-DNA into genomic DNA, while clones RJ 10 and 11 demonstrated only the presence of the LT-DNA sequence. The results demonstrated an increase in flawan-3-ols (catechins) accumulation in hairy root tissue relative to non-transformed (NT) plants. Moreover, hairy roots exhibited enhanced antioxidant activity and bactericidal properties compared with NT roots and NT shoots, respectively.

The article presents the results of research aimed at developing mathematical models for determining the components of grinding force occurring during the sharpening of the rake face of hob cutters. The development of the models was based on the results obtained during experimental tests conducted in the first stage of the research. The studies were carried out using a tool grinder and an aluminum oxide grinding wheel. During the tests, two components of the grinding force were measured, using a piezoelectric dynamometer. A sample made of HS6-5-2 high-speed steel was ground. Grinding was carried out using different sets of cutting parameters. Based on the obtained measurement results, two mathematical models were developed in the form of (1) a multiple regression function and (2) a polynomial function, enabling the calculation of the normal and the tangential force. The experimentally obtained results were then compared with those calculated based on the developed models, and the results of this comparison showed that the developed models provide a good basis for analyzing the sharpening process of hob cutters in terms of variable grinding parameters.

Cyclic voltammetry (CV) can be applied as a reliable method for the determination of chloride ions in a range from several to a couple hundred (about 200) ppm. Since the standard potential of chloride ion/gaseous chlorine is 1.36 V vs. normal hydrogen electrode (NHE), the efficient oxidation of Cl - ion occurs at very positive electrode potentials, usually higher than +1.7 V vs. NHE. It is possible to observe this phenomenon only at noble-metal or inert carbon electrodes. Many other solutes, usually organic compounds, are often oxidized at this potential. This is the reason why the determination of Cl - content directly from an increase in the oxidation current is not reliable and could lead to overestimated values. However, gaseous chlorine, generated at a positive potential dissolve in the analyzed solution, could be reduced in the reverse scan of a cyclic voltammetric curve. Optimization of the experimental procedure using statistical tools enables the development of an improved method for the direct quantification of chloride ions in acid copper electroplating baths. Under the proposed experimental conditions, the calibration curve (Cl 2 voltammetric reduction current vs. chloride ions concentration) is represented by the linear model for the concentration of chlorides ranging from 10 to 200 mg/dm 3 . The developed method for analyzing chloride ions in an acid sulfate electroplating copper bath has many unique properties. It is fast; the time of a single analysis is less than 20 min. In automatic mode, it can be repeated up to 50 times a day. The method does not require processing of the sample of the analyzed bath before measurement. As a result, no additional chemical reagents are used, and the test sample can be returned to the plating bath.

The purpose of the experiment was to indicate which element of the production process of flexible printed circuit boards is optimal in terms of the reliability of final products. According to the Taguchi method, in the experiment, five factors with two levels each were chosen for the subsequent analysis. These included the number of conductive layers, the thickness of the laminate layer, the type of the laminate, the diameter of the plated holes, and the current density in the galvanic bath. The reliability of the PCBs in the produced variations was verified using the Interconnect Stress Test environmental test. The qualitatively best variant of the board construction was indicated using the signal-to-noise ratio and the analysis of variance method for each factor. The factors determined to be the most important in terms of reliability were the number of conductive layers and the current density in the galvanic bath. The optimal variant of the board construction was two conductive layers on a polyimide laminate, where the laminate layer was 100 μm thick, the hole diameter was equal to 0.4 mm, and current density was 2 A/dm 2 in the galvanic bath. Therefore, the plated experiment indicated the factors needed to obtain a high-quality product with a low failure rate.

The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a complex communication network connecting the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and the central nervous system (CNS) through neuronal, endocrine, metabolic, and immune pathways. Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are crucial food components that may modulate the function of this axis through molecular mechanisms. Derived mainly from marine sources, these long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are integral to cell membrane structure, enhancing fluidity and influencing neurotransmitter function and signal transduction. Additionally, n-3 fatty acids modulate inflammation by altering eicosanoid production, reducing proinflammatory cytokines, and promoting anti-inflammatory mediators. These actions help preserve the integrity of cellular barriers like the intestinal and blood-brain barriers. In the CNS, EPA and DHA support neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and neurotransmission, improving cognitive functions. They also regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis by reducing excessive cortisol production, associated with stress responses and mental health disorders. Furthermore, n-3 fatty acids influence the composition and function of the gut microbiota, promoting beneficial bacterial populations abundance that contribute to gut health and improve systemic immunity. Their multifaceted roles within the GBA underscore their significance in maintaining homeostasis and supporting mental well-being.

Background: Oral candidiasis, predominantly caused by Candida albicans , presents significant challenges in treatment due to increasing antifungal resistance and biofilm formation. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) using natural photosensitizers like riboflavin and hypericin offers a potential alternative to conventional antifungal therapies. Material and Methods : A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of riboflavin- and hypericin-mediated aPDT in reducing Candida infections. The PRISMA framework guided the selection and analysis of 16 eligible studies published between 2014 and 2024. Data on light parameters, photosensitizer concentrations, and outcomes were extracted to assess antifungal effects. Results : Both riboflavin- and hypericin-mediated aPDT demonstrated significant antifungal activity, achieving substantial reductions in Candida biofilm and planktonic cell viability. Riboflavin activated by blue light and hypericin activated by yellow or orange light effectively targeted fluconazole-resistant Candida strains with minimal cytotoxicity to host tissues. However, complete biofilm eradication remained challenging, and variations in protocols highlighted the need for standardization. Conclusions : Riboflavin- and hypericin-mediated aPDT present promising, biocompatible alternatives for managing antifungal resistance in Candida infections. Further clinical trials and standardized protocols are essential to optimize outcomes and confirm efficacy in broader clinical settings.

The safety of the airspace could be improved by the use of visual methods for the detection and tracking of aircraft. However, in the case of the small angular size of airplanes and the high noise level in the image, sufficient use of such methods might be difficult. By using the ConvNN (Convolutional Neural Network), it is possible to obtain a detector that performs the segmentation task for aircraft images that are very small and lost in the background noise. In the learning process, a database of actual aircraft images was used. Using the Monte Carlo method, four types of Max algorithms, i.e., Pixel Value, Min. Pixel Value, and Max. Abs. Pixel Value, were compared with ConvNN's forward architecture. The obtained results showed superior detection with ConvNN. For example, if the standard deviation equals 0.1, it was twice as large. Deep dream analysis for network layers is presented, which shows a preference for images with horizontal contrast lines. The proposed solution uses the processed image values for the tracking process with the raw data using the Track-Before-Detect method.

This study aims to explore the effect of pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment as a method very likely to result in reversible electroporation of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi underground organs, resulting in increased mass transfer and secondary metabolites leakage. PEF treatment with previously established empirically tailored parameters [E = 0.3 kV/cm (U = 3 kV, d = 10 cm), t = 50 µs, N = 33 f = 1 Hz] was applied 1-3 times to S. baicalensis roots submerged in four different Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) media (1-choline chloride/xylose (1:2) + 30% water, 2-choline chloride/glucose (1:2) + 30% water, 3-choline chloride/ethylene glycol (1:2), and 4-tap water (EC = 0.7 mS/cm). Confocal microscopy was utilized to visualize the impact of PEF treatment on the root cells in situ. As a result of plant cell membrane permeabilization, an extract containing major active metabolites was successfully acquired in most media, achieving the best results using medium 1 and repeating the PEF treatment twice (baicalein wogonin = 2.15 µg/mL). After successful extraction, PEF treatment allowed the plants to continue growing, with the lowest survival rate across treated groups being 60%. Additionally, an enhancement in plant growth parameters (length and fresh mass of the roots) and significant changes in the S. baicalensis root phytochemical profile were also observed.

Background/Objectives : Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for the treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) has been standardized over the last 20 years. At our institution, only n = 3 rob arms are used for RARP. In addition, n = 2, 12 mm lap trocars are placed for the bedside assistant symmetrically at the midclavicular lines, which allows for direct pelvic triangulation and greater involvement of the assisting surgeon. The aim of our study was to compare surgical and perioperative outcomes of RARP performed using our alternative trocar placement with no fourth robotic arm in the subgroups of experienced attending surgeons and post-graduate residents as bedside assistants. Residents' satisfaction was also explored. Methods : RARPs performed within the urology residency program between 2019 and 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. Only rob procedures performed using our 3+2 trocars configuration were included. Intra- and postoperative outcomes, as well as long-term functional outcomes including continence recovery and potency, were assessed, stratified by the level of expertise of the bedside assistant, i.e., an experienced attending or post-graduate Year I-III resident. Satisfaction of residents assigned to the two groups during their robotic rotation was evaluated considering three domains with a score from 1 to 10: insight into surgical procedure, confidence level, and gratification level. Results : Out of n = 281 RARP procedures, the bedside assistant was an attending in 104 cases and a resident in 177. Operative time was found to be slightly longer in cases where the second operator was a resident (attendings vs. residents: 134 ± 40 vs. 152 ± 24; p < 0.001). Postoperative hospitalization time was longer in patients in the resident group (attendings vs. residents: 3.9 ± 1.6 vs. 4.3 ± 1 days; p = 0.025). However, cases where the second operator was a resident had a lower rate of positive surgical margins, with rates of 19.7% in the resident and 43.3% in the attending surgeon cohorts (OR = 0.32; 95% CI 0.18-0.55). This difference remained significant in multivariate analysis. There was no significant difference in postoperative blood transfusion rates (attendings vs. residents: 1.9% vs. 1.2%; p = 0.6). Similarly, long-term functional outcomes in terms of erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence rates mostly overlapped between groups. The mean score in all three domains evaluating residents' satisfaction was significantly higher when residents actively participated in the surgical procedure as bedside assistants ( p = 0.02, p = 0.004, and p < 0.001, respectively, for insights into surgical procedure, confidence level, and gratification level). Conclusions : These findings provide insight into how an alternative port positioning during RARP could improve the involvement of the bedside assistant, particularly residents, without compromising perioperative outcomes or surgical safety.

Down syndrome develops due to the presence of supernumerary chromosome 21. This diagnosis is made in approximately 1:800 live births. The tendency to develop autoimmune disorders like idiopathic arthritis, celiac disease, diabetes mellitus type 1, vitiligo and autoimmune thyroid disease is strongly expressed in patients with Down syndrome. Autoimmune thyroid diseases consisting of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease are specifically prevalent in patients with Down syndrome. The aim of our study is to collect available data connecting the pathogenesis and clinical course of autoimmune thyroid diseases in patients with Down syndrome of different ages and compare them to control groups. According to published data, the incidence ratio of Hashimoto's thyroiditis diagnosis in patients with Down syndrome is elevated compared to in age-matched controls without this chromosomal aberration, similarly to Graves' disease risk, which is also increased in a group of patients with Down syndrome. What is more, both Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease are diagnosed at an earlier age than in the healthy population and are not correlated with gender or a family history of autoimmune diseases.

Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that regulate many cellular processes. Changes in the profiles of cellular ncRNAs and those secreted in exosomes are observed during viral infection. In our study, we analysed differences in expression profiles of snoRNAs isolated from exosomes of influenza (IAV)-infected and non-infected MDCK cells using high-throughput sequencing. The analysis revealed 133 significantly differentially regulated snoRNAs (131 upregulated and 2 downregulated), including 93 SNORD, 38 SNORA, and 2 SCARNA. The most upregulated was SNORD58 (log2FoldChange = 9.61), while the only downregulated snoRNAs were SNORD3 (log2FC = -2.98) and SNORA74 (log2FC = -2.67). Several snoRNAs previously described as involved in viral infections were upregulated, including SNORD27, SNORD28, SNORD29, SNORD58, and SNORD44. In total, 533 interactors of dysregulated snoRNAs were identified using the RNAinter database with an assigned confidence score ≥ 0.25. The main groups of predicted interactors were transcription factors (TFs, 169 interactors) and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs, 130 interactors). Among the most important were pioneer TFs such as POU5F1, SOX2, CEBPB, and MYC, while in the RBP category, notable interactors included Polr2a, TNRC6A, IGF2BP3, and FMRP. Our results suggest that snoRNAs are involved in pro-viral activity, although follow-up studies including experimental validation would be beneficial.

We report the results of calculations of the linear polarizability and second hyperpolarizability of the H 2 molecule in the bond dissociation process. These calculations were performed for isolated molecules, as well as molecules under spatial confinement. The spatial confinement was modeled using the external two-dimensional (cylindrical) harmonic oscillator potential. In contrast to the recently investigated polar LiH molecule, it was shown that the spatial confinement significantly diminishes the linear and nonlinear response of H 2 for each interatomic (H-H) distance.

The article compares the properties of coatings (cataphoretic, hot-dip zinc, and thermo-diffusion zinc) applied to steel components used in the automotive industry. The research focused on the analysis of corrosion resistance, hardness measurements, and tribological properties conducted on steel guides used in trailer and truck body structures as well as fasteners (M12 × 40 bolts). The base surfaces were cleaned chemically. Corrosion resistance was tested in a salt chamber, while coating thickness was measured using the magnetic induction method. Coating hardness (HV 0.02) was assessed with a microhardness tester, and tribological properties were tested under dry friction conditions. The results showed that the zinc coatings demonstrated corrosion resistance far superior to paint coatings.

This work investigates the contact between abrasive particles and workpieces in microfinishing processes with special consideration given to the determination of unit force, unit pressure, and grain, the forces exerted by individual abrasive grains. A detailed methodology was established for measuring the contact area, penetration depth, and circumferences of grain imprints at depths corresponding to multiples of the total height of the abrasive film, represented by the parameter Sz . The following depths were analyzed: 0.05 Sz , 0.15 Sz , 0.25 Sz , and 0.35 Sz . Results show that the areas closer to the central microfinishing zone bear the highest unit pressures and forces and, thus, contribute dominantly to material removal. It was further found that near the edges of the contact zone, the pressure and force have been reduced to lower material removal efficiency. The non-uniform geometry of abrasive particles was found to significantly affect contact mechanics, more at shallow depths of penetration, whereas the shape of the apex defines the nature of the interaction. A parabolic force and pressure distribution were evident for the irregular load distribution of the microfinishing area. The result brings out the need for further refinement in the design of the abrasive film and pressure distribution in order to achieve improvement in uniformity and efficiency during microfinishing. It would bring out valuable insights on how to improve the effectiveness of an abrasive film and ways of optimizing the process conditions. The results provide a founding stone for further advancement of knowledge in the grain-workpiece interaction, enabling better surface quality and more reliable microfinishing processes.

The corrosion resistance of a Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr) cermet coating applied to an Al7075 substrate (Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr)/Al7075) was investigated. The coating was produced using a cold spraying (CS) method. The main aim of the research was to determine the effect of heat treatment on the properties of cermet coatings on the Al7075 substrate. The mechanical properties of the Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr)/Al7075 composite were assessed through microhardness (HV) measurements. The surface morphology and microstructure of the specimens were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Electrochemical testing in an acidic chloride solution was employed to evaluate the corrosion behavior of the materials. The cermet coating effectively protected the Al7075 substrate from the aggressive corrosive environment. Heat treatment homogenized the structure of the cermet coating, eliminating microcracks and pores on the Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr)/Al7075 surface. Notably, annealing at 300 °C in air significantly enhanced the corrosion resistance of the cermet coating. The corrosion rate was reduced by more than five times compared to the non-heat-treated Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr)/Al7075 coating.

Despite significant progress in the field of clinical oncology in terms of diagnostic and treatment methods, the results of anticancer therapy are still not fully satisfactory, especially due to limited response and high toxicity. This has forced the need for further research to finding alternative ways to improve success rates in oncological treatment. A good solution to this problem in the context of rapidly obtaining an effective drug that works on multiple levels of cancer and is also safe is the global strategy of repurposing an existing drug. Research into other applications of an existing drug enables a precise assessment of its possible mechanisms of action and, consequently, the broadening of therapeutic indications. This strategy is also supported by the fact that most non-oncological drugs have pleiotropic effects, and most of the diseases for which they were originally intended are multifactorial, which in turn is a very desirable phenomenon due to the heterogeneous and multifaceted biology of cancer. In this review, we will mainly focus on the anticancer potential of H1 antihistamines, especially the new generation that were not originally intended for cancer therapy, to highlight the relevant signaling pathways and discuss the properties of these agents for their judicious use based on the characteristic features of cancer., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Primary and metastatic tumors of the nervous system represent a diverse group of neoplasms, each characterized by distinct biological features, prognostic outcomes, and therapeutic approaches. Due to their molecular complexity and heterogeneity, nervous system cancers (NSCs) pose significant clinical challenges. For decades, plants and their natural products with established anticancer properties have played a pivotal role in the treatment of various medical conditions, including cancers. Anthraquinone derivatives, a class of tricyclic secondary metabolites, are found in several botanical families, such as Fabaceae , Polygonaceae , Rhamnaceae , and Rubiaceae . In a comprehensive review, recent advancements in the anticancer properties of 1,8-dihydroanthraquinone derivatives-such as emodin, aloe-emodin, hypericin, chrysophanol, rhein, and physcion-were analyzed. These compounds have been studied extensively, both used individually and in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, using in vitro and in vivo models of nervous system tumors. It was demonstrated that 1,8-dihydroanthraquinone derivatives induce apoptosis and necrosis in cancerous cells, intercalate into DNA, disrupting transcription and replication in rapidly dividing cells, and alter ROS levels, leading to oxidative stress that damages tumor cells. Additionally, they can influence signaling pathways involved in oncogenesis, such as MAPK, PI3K/Akt, or others crucial for the survival and the proliferation of NSC cells. The exploration of 1,8-dihydroanthraquinone derivatives aims to develop novel therapies that could overcome resistance and improve cancer patients' outcomes.

Ethanolic extracts from the roots and aerial parts of the hitherto chemically uninvestigated lettuce species Lactuca racemosa Willd. (Cichorieae, Asteraceae) were chromatographically separated to obtain eight sesquiterpenoids, two apocarotenoids (loliolide and (6 S ,9 S ) roseoside), and three phenolic glucosides (apigenin 7- O -glucoside, eugenyl-4- O - β -glucopyranoside, and 5-methoxyeugenyl-4- O - β -glucopyranoside). Four of the isolated sesquiterpene lactones (8- α -angeloyloxyleucodin, matricarin, 15-deoxylactucin, and deacetylmatricarin 8- β -glucopyranoside) have not previously been found either in Lactuca spp. or in Cicerbita spp. In addition, HPLC-PAD chromatographic methods were used to estimate the deacetylmatricarin derivatives, luteolin 7- O -glucoside, and caffeic acid derivatives contents in the analyzed plant material. The aerial parts contained c. 3.0% dry weight of chicoric acid and equal amounts (0.4%) of caftaric acid and luteolin 7- O -glucoside. The roots contained fewer phenolic metabolites but were rich in deacetylmatricarin glucoside (c. 1.3%). The aglycone of the most abundant sesquiterpene lactone was evaluated with respect to its neuroprotective effect in H 2 O 2 - and 6-OHDA-treated human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. This compound, at concentrations of 10 and 50 μM, provided partial protection of undifferentiated cells, and at a concentration of 50 μM, it provided partial protection of retinoic acid-differentiated cells from H 2 O 2 -induced damage. In a model of 6-OHDA-evoked cytotoxicity, the sesquiterpenoid was less effective. Our findings may support the inclusion of this plant into the human diet.

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi is a valuable medicinal plant of the Lamiaceae family. Its roots have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (under the name Huang-qin) since antiquity and are nowadays included in Chinese and European Pharmacopoeias. It is abundant in bioactive compounds which constitute up to 20% of dried root mass. These substances are lipophilic flavones with unsubstituted B-ring, baicalein, and wogonin and their respective glucuronides-baicalin and wogonoside being the most abundant. The content of these compounds is variable and the environmental factors causing this remain partially unknown. The role of these compounds in stress response is still being investigated and in our efforts to measure the effect of NaCl treatment on S. baicalensis growth and metabolic profile, we hope to contribute to this research. Short-term exposure to salt stress (50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl) resulted in a marked increase of baicalein from 1.55 mg to 2.55 mg/g DM (1.6-fold), baicalin from 8.2 mg to 14.7 mg (1.8-fold), wogonin from 4.9 to 6.8 (1.4-fold), and wogonoside from 3.3 to 6.8 mg/g DM (2-fold) in the roots. Conversely, in the aerial parts, the content of individual major flavonoids: carthamidine-7-O-glucuronide and scutellarein-7-O-glucuronide decreased the most by 10-50% from 18.6 mg to 11.3 mg/g (1.6-fold less) and from 6.5 mg to 3.4 mg/g DM (0.52-fold less), respectively. The amino acid profile was also altered with an increase in root concentrations of the following amino acids: arginine from 0.19 to 0.33 mg/g (1.7-fold), glutamate from 0.09 to 0.16 mg/g DM (1.6-fold), alanine from 0.009 to 0.06 mg/g (6.8-fold), proline from 0.011 to 0.029 (2.4-fold) and lysine from 0.016 to 0.063 mg/g (3.9-fold). Aspartate concentration decreased from 0.01 to 0.002 mg/g (4.8-fold less) at 150 mM NaCl. In the aerial parts, the concentration and variation in levels of specific amino acids differed among groups. For instance, the glutamate content exhibited a significant increase exclusively in the treatment group, rising from 0.031 to 0.034 mg/g, representing a 1.2-fold increase. Proline concentration showed a marked increase across all treated groups with the highest from 0.011 to 0.11 mg/g (10-fold). In conclusion, moderate salt stress was shown to increase S. baicalensis root biomass and flavonoid content which is rarely observed in a glycophyte species and provides a foundation for further studies on the mechanisms of osmotic stress adaptation on the specialized metabolism level., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Anxiety is a subjective feeling of fear in response to stressful or threatening situations. Chronic diseases (such as chronic kidney disease) or the state after kidney transplantation are such situations and they may result in a decreased quality of life. The main aim of this research was to evaluate if the proteins IL-8, RANTES, MIG, MCP-1, IP-10, and IL-12p70 could be indicators of higher levels of anxiety or decreased quality of life in chronically ill women. The assessment was conducted using the STAI and SF-36 questionnaires and with the measurement of listed proteins from the patient's blood sample. The study group consisted of 107 women-101 patients from the Nephrological Clinic and 6 from the Dialysis Center. Both of the facilities are part of University Clinical Hospital No. 2 in Szczecin. Statistical analysis was performed using JASP software (JASP 0.18.3 version). Anxiety levels and quality of life correlations between STAI and SF-36 scores and individual variables were assessed. Logistic regression models were performed for both questionnaire outcomes: SF-36 and STAI. Lower quality of life was found in the group with a higher IL-8 concentration compared to the group of women with a lower IL-8 concentration. A positive weak correlation was found between a decreased quality of life and IL-8 and RANTES. A higher RANTES level increases the odds of a lower quality of life. This study shows that special care should be provided for chronically ill women (especially with CKD or after KTx) with a higher RANTES or IL-8 concentration. They would highly benefit from close monitoring of their mental health.

Lincomycin belongs to the antibiotics commonly used in veterinary medicine. Its residues are easily spread in the environment because of its physicochemical properties, including resistance to biodegradation and good solubility in water. One of the effective methods for the removal of lincomycin from wastewater is the photocatalytic process, but it is not widely used due to the price of photocatalysts. The aim of this work was to compare the photocatalytic efficiency and the mechanism of lincomycin degradation initiated by UVa radiation in the presence of TiO 2 -P25 and ZnO, as well as in the presence of industrial pigments commonly used in construction and containing TiO 2 . Lincomycin was found to undergo efficient photocatalytic degradation in the presence of a commercial TiO 2 -P25 photocatalyst, industrial pigments containing only anatase, and in the presence of ZnO. On the contrary, industrial pigments containing only rutile or a mixture of rutile and anatase practically did not show any photocatalytic activity. The composition of the solutions after the degradation of lincomycin in the presence of TiO 2 -P25 and ZnO differed significantly. Most of the identified organic degradation products contained conserved pharmacophores, and some of them could have been highly ecotoxic.

Ultrasonic atomization is an object of steadily increasing interest from metal powder manufacturers, both for additive manufacturing and powder metallurgy. Based on the analysis of available theoretical studies, simulations and experiments, it was noted that the average particle size after atomization and the final particle size distribution depend on the process parameters (e.g., frequency, amplitude) and the parameters of the atomized fluid (e.g., viscosity, surface tension). The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of using ultrasonic atomization to study the properties of liquid metals. It attempts to close a gap in existing knowledge in searching for a new, possibly simple and cost-effective method to study the properties of liquid metals and clarify the relationship between ultrasonic atomization parameters (amplitude, frequency, metal spill on vibrating surface) and obtained atomization results (average particle size, particle size distribution, atomization time). Utilizing numerical modeling as a methodology, especially the finite element method, the possibilities of using ultrasonic atomization as an instrument to determine properties of liquid metals were considered as an introduction to a series of real experiments. Modeling was applied to liquids with different properties, atomized at a chosen specific constant frequency and amplitude. The results of the simulation are in line with the current state of knowledge about ultrasonic atomization. However, in the existing studies available to the authors, there are no data that can be compared directly, but indirect comparisons confirmed the conclusions of the preliminary literature analysis. The relationship between viscosity and surface tension and the average size of the atomization processes obtained in the simulation of particles was demonstrated, thus providing a tool for the development of the presented concept: ultrasonic atomization as a research method. Research and simulation results led to the final conclusion: ultrasonic atomization can be applied to study the properties of liquid metals and this will be the subject of further research and experimentation.

Resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound found in various plants, has been extensively studied for its broad spectrum of beneficial biological effects. These encompass its potent antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory activities, anti-aging capabilities, cardioprotective functions, and neuroprotective potential. The diverse biological actions of resveratrol extend beyond these well-established properties. It also exerts a significant impact on metabolic processes and bioavailability, and critically, it demonstrates the ability to effectively traverse the blood-brain barrier. This capacity to penetrate the central nervous system renders resveratrol a promising therapeutic agent for the management of central nervous system malignancies, as it has been shown to inhibit tumor cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and modulate key signaling cascades, such as PI3K/Akt, JAK/STAT, and NF-kB. The multifaceted nature of resveratrol's biological effects, including its influence on diverse physiological processes, underscores its potential as a valuable therapeutic option for the treatment of central nervous system tumors.

Modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence methods such as machine learning, hold immense potential for supporting doctors with cancer diagnostics. This study explores the enhancement of popular machine learning methods using a bio-inspired algorithm-the naked mole-rat algorithm (NMRA)-to assess the malignancy of thyroid tumors. The study utilized a novel dataset released in 2022, containing data collected at Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University. The dataset comprises 1232 records described by 19 features. In this research, 10 well-known classifiers, including XGBoost, LightGBM, and random forest, were employed to evaluate the malignancy of thyroid tumors. A key innovation of this study is the application of the naked mole-rat algorithm for parameter optimization and feature selection within the individual classifiers. Among the models tested, the LightGBM classifier demonstrated the highest performance, achieving a classification accuracy of 81.82% and an F1-score of 86.62%, following two-level parameter optimization and feature selection using the naked mole-rat algorithm. Additionally, explainability analysis of the LightGBM model was conducted using SHAP values, providing insights into the decision-making process of the model.

The COL1A1 gene encodes the α1 chain of type I collagen, and the data reported so far demonstrate that its polymorphic variants may affect biomechanical properties of bones, muscles, and tendons, and contribute to musculoskeletal disorders. Given, however, limited research on these variants in tendon pathology, we analyzed the impact of COL1A1 polymorphisms on the tendinopathy phenotype and the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for tennis elbow. Pain perception and therapy outcomes were analyzed from baseline, i.e., before PRP injection to two years post-PRP injection in a cohort of 107 patients. The study focused on seven COL1A1 variants: rs2249492 (C/T), rs2586488 (A/G), rs2075558 (A/C), rs2253369 (C/T), rs35231764 (A/G), rs1800012 (C/A), and rs9898186 (C/T). We demonstrated that carriers of the TT/CT (rs2249492), AA/AC (rs1800012), and TT/CT (rs9898186) genotypes reported pain related to injury more frequently than subjects with other COL1A1 variants, also in the context of performing specific activities and other pain characteristics. These polymorphisms did not significantly influence therapy effectiveness, although rs35231764 showed a moderate effect. In conclusion, the T (rs2249492), A (rs1800012), and T (rs9898186) alleles of COL1A1 gene are risk factors for pain perception in tennis elbow patients, but do not appear to substantially impact PRP treatment outcomes.