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Malaria is an endemic disease in Indonesia caused by infection from the Plasmodium parasite. Recently, antimalarial resistance significantly contributed to the decline in the cure rate of malaria sufferers. In this work, three calix[4]resorcinarenes have been synthesized from 2-methylresorcinol and different benzaldehyde derivatives, i.e., 4-chlorobenzaldehyde, 4-methoxybenzaldehyde, and 4-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde through the one-pot synthesis procedure. The calix[4]resorcinarenes synthesis was done through a cyclo-condensation reaction by using HCl 37% as the catalyst and ethanol as the solvent in an one-pot reaction. The structures of the synthesized products were confirmed using Fourier transform infrared, proton-nuclear magnetic resonance, and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry techniques. The antimalarial activity assay was evaluated against the Plasmodium falciparum FCR-3 strain through an in vitro study. Three synthesized compounds, i.e., C-4-chlorophenylcalix[4]-2-methylresorcinarene, C-4-methoxyphenylcalix[4]-2-methylresorcinarene and C-4-dimethylaminophenylcalix[4]-2-methylresorcinarene have been successfully synthesized in up to 97% yield. The C-4-chlorophenylcalix[4]-2-methylresorcinerene exhibited the most potent antimalarial activity with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 2.66 µM against P. falciparum FCR-3 while the C-4-methoxyphenylcalix[4]-2-methylresorcinarene and C-4-dimethylaminophenylcalix[4]-2-methylresorcinarene gave the IC50 values of 23.63 and 13.82 µM, respectively. From the results, it could be concluded that the antimalarial activity of calix[4]-2-methylresorcinarenes was influenced by the type of substituent of aromatic rings at the para position.

Purpose: To propose an intelligent, non-invasive, highly precise, and rapid method to predict the mutation status of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) to accelerate treatment with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) for patients with untreated adenocarcinoma Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Materials and methods: Real-world data from 521 patients with adenocarcinoma NSCLC who performed a CT scan and underwent surgery or pathological biopsy to determine EGFR gene mutation between January 2021 and July 2022, is collected. Solutions to the problems that prevent the model from achieving very high precision, namely: human errors made during the annotation of the database and the low precision of the output decision of the model, are proposed. Thus, among the 521 analyzed cases, only 40 were selected as patients with EGFR gene mutation and 98 cases with wild-type EGFR. Results: The proposed model is trained, validated, and tested on 12,040 2D images extracted from the 138 CT scans images where patients were randomly partitioned into training (80 %) and test (20 %) sets. The performance obtained for EGFR gene mutation prediction was 95.22 % for accuracy, 960.2 for F1_score, 95.89 % for precision, 96.92 % for sensitivity, 94.01 % for Cohen kappa, and 98 % for AUC. Conclusion: An EGFR gene mutation status prediction method, with high-performance thanks to an intelligent prediction model entrained by highly accurate annotated data is proposed. The outcome of this project will facilitate rapid decision-making when applying a TKI as an initial treatment.

Abstract Background The traditional knowledge in southern Yemen is rich in wild medicinal and food plants, which has been documented in our previous studies. In addition, other significant and general traditional usage for the daily livelihood requirements of local people (beyond medicinal and food plant uses) has not been studied before and needs urgent documentation. Methods Ethnobotanical data on of wild plants used by local people in southern Yemen were collected by oral questionnaire interviews. Most informants (n = 1020) were local elderly from 15 different localities in southern Yemen. The local names and non-medicinal and non-food uses of plants were identified and analyzed. Results The ethnobotanical data resulted various traditional uses of 73 plant species distributed in 28 families. The most represented families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Malvaceae. The most growth forms were trees and shrubs. Seven main and common categories of traditional uses were determined and classified as handicraft, health aids, livestock husbandry and beekeeping, economic and commercial plant products, agriculture tools, construction timber and fuel. The most cited species were identified for Ziziphus spina-christi, Vachellia tortilis, Vachellia nilotica, Anisotes trisulcus, Dracaena hanningtonii (Sansevieria ehrenbergii) and Aerva javanica, which have multi-purpose values of traditional usage. Nine major traditional uses of local wild plants were recorded: handicraft, agriculture tools, products aid general health, economic products, construction timber, livestock husbandry, bee keeping, fuel and ornamental. Conclusions Despite the challenges on local traditional knowledge of wild plants, it still requested vital to many usages of traditional life and still have an economic value and heritage required of develop the daily livelihood level of the local people especially in rural areas. This includes the traditional uses of wild plants in handicraft skills, tools of agriculture, constructions. The importance of the continuity of traditional industries and their transmission to generations lies in the local population’s reliance on local natural resources without relying on external resources in situations such as wars. This is the first study that contributes to documenting and analyzing the indigenous knowledge on traditional general usage of wild plants in southern Yemen.

Plants and plant extracts have long been acknowledged as valuable resources for the development of therapeutic formulations for various diseases. Among them, numerous plants and plant-derived products have demonstrated cytotoxic and/or anti-tumor properties. Saffron, particularly due to its major compounds, namely crocin, crocetin, and safranal, stands out as a promising candidate in this regard. Our research undertakes a literature review, reaffirming the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and, notably, anti-tumor properties of saffron and its major constituents. Additionally, this study examines relevant patent documents, highlighting innovative applications for saffron and its major compounds in cancer therapy. The review discusses the progress in purifying the compounds extracted from saffron and assesses their impact on cytotoxic trial outcomes, the potential synergies between certain saffron compounds and established cytotoxic molecules, and the limitations of the patents examined, particularly concerning reported clinical evidence. Researchers who focus on advances in oncology will know from our findings the evolution of the patent landscape regarding cytotoxic and/or anti-tumor therapeutic applications using saffron or its main compounds. Moreover, investigators can draw inspiration from patents leveraging traditional knowledge, particularly from Chinese medicine, to clarify specific active molecules and their mechanisms of action and can expedite the translation of these findings into clinically relevant interventions, potentially enhancing cancer therapy outcomes.

Abstract Background Schwannomas are solitary well-circumscribed encapsulated benign tumors that exhibit Schwann cell differentiation, and arise directly from myelinated peripheral or central nerves. Although they are usually asymptomatic and found incidentally, schwannomas can cause symptoms due to compression of nearby structures which, depending on the location, can make clinical presentations widely variable. Despite their rarity, schwannomas have been documented in a number of locations including the limbs, cerebellopontine angle, posterior mediastinum, and, far more infrequently, the lungs. Case presentation In this article, we report an incidental finding of an intrapulmonary schwannoma in a 59-year-old Pakistani woman who was grossly asymptomatic upon presentation to the cardiothoracic surgery clinic. An [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan revealed a lobulated soft-tissue lesion measuring 23 mm × 23 mm in the lower lobe of the right lung. A computed tomography-guided core biopsy of the mass was performed, which revealed a benign spindle cell lesion based on histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining. The mass was surgically resected via a right lower lobectomy, and subsequently confirmed to be an encapsulated neoplastic lesion composed of well-differentiated Schwann cells. There were no short- or long-term complications, morbidities, or recurrences based on 1-year follow-up. Conclusion This report underscores the predominantly asymptomatic nature of schwannomas and reemphasizes the efficacy of surgical resection as a safe and curative procedure for a tumor of this nature. Albeit very rare, intrapulmonary schwannomas can be considered a differential diagnosis when encountering solitary asymptomatic pulmonary nodules or masses.

Abstract Background A shorter length of stay (LOS) is associated with fewer hospital-acquired adverse conditions and decreased utilization of hospital resources. While modern perioperative care protocols have enabled some ambitious surgical teams to achieve discharge as early as within postoperative day 1 (POD1), most other teams remain cautious about such an approach due to the perceived risk of missing postoperative complications and increased readmission rates. We aimed to identify factors that would help guide surgical teams aiming for safe and successful POD1 discharge after lung resection. Methods We searched the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and CENTRAL databases for articles comparing perioperative characteristics in patients discharged within POD1 (DWPOD1) and after POD1 (DAPOD1) following lung resection. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Results We included eight retrospective cohort studies with a total of 216,887 patients, of which 22,250 (10.3%) patients were DWPOD1. Our meta-analysis showed that younger patients, those without cardiovascular and respiratory comorbidities, and those with better preoperative pulmonary function are more likely to qualify for DWPOD1. Certain operative factors, such as a minimally invasive approach, shorter operations, and sublobar resections, also favor DWPOD1. DWPOD1 appears to be safe, with comparable 30-day mortality and readmission rates, and significantly less postoperative morbidity than DAPOD1. Conclusions In select patients with a favorable preoperative profile, DWPOD1 after lung resection can be achieved successfully and without increased risk of adverse outcomes such as postoperative morbidity, mortality, or readmissions.

Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels are emerging as highly versatile materials for cost-effective biosensors, capable of sensitive chemical and biological detection. These hydrogels, functionalized with specific groups, exhibit sensitivity modulated by factors such as temperature, pH, and analyte concentration, allowing for a broad spectrum of applications. This study presents a patent-centered overview of recent advancements in hyaluronic acid hydrogel biosensors from 2003 to 2023. A total of 50 patent documents—including 41 patent applications and 9 granted patents—reveal a growing interest, primarily driven by United States-based institutions, which account for approximately 54% of all filings. This trend reflects the strong collaboration between universities, industry, and foundations in pushing this technology forward. Most patented technologies focus on biosensors for in vivo blood analysis, measuring critical parameters such as gas concentration and pH, with particular emphasis on glucose monitoring via tissue impedance using enzyme-immobilized oxidase electrodes. Additionally, the 9 granted patents collectively showcase key innovations, highlighting applications from continuous glucose monitors to implantable vascular devices and sweat analyte detection systems. These patents underscore the adaptability and biocompatibility of hyaluronic acid hydrogels, reinforcing their role in enhancing biosensor performance for real-time health monitoring. In summary, this overview highlights the importance of patent analysis in tracking and directing research and development, helping to clarify the field’s evolution and identify innovation gaps for hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel biosensors.

Though much research has been conducted on the potential well-being effects of deployment on armed forces members, a significant gap seems to exist in the literature when it comes to its effect on conflict-zone interpreters. Drawing on the experiences of six former Afghan-Canadian Language and Cultural Advisors (LCAs), this paper aims to contribute to expanding the nascent literature on conflict-zone interpreters by exploring how former LCAs perceive their experiences before, during, and after their deployment and the resulting impacts on their well-being. Interested in an in-depth exploration of the experiences of former LCAs, this study employed an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach. Through the analysis, four superordinate themes emerged in participants’ narratives including: (1) the right opportunity, referring to the reasons for becoming an LCA; (2) overcoming challenges, when it comes to the work itself; (3) deserving better, relating to the experience returning to post-service life; and (4) moving forward, speaking to the current reality of participants. The results reveal key insights into the unique experiences and support needs of former Afghan-Canadian LCAs included in the study, offering an in-depth account of their experience before, during and after their service. The findings also offer important considerations regarding the support available not just to interpreters but to all contractors deployed in conflict-zones.

Abstract Authorship determination on a research article remains a largely subjective process. Existing guidelines on authorship taxonomy lack objectivity and are more useful in determining who deserves authorship rather than determining the order of authors. To promote best practices in authorship taxonomy, we developed an authorship rubric that provides a fair, objective, and transparent means of crediting authorship. We christened this tool the “CalculAuthor”. The following steps are to be undertaken to create a scoring system based on the requirements of the projects: determining creditable criteria, assigning credit weightages, deciding levels of contribution, determining each author’s contribution, calculating authorship scores and ranking. These must be performed by or in close collaboration with the primary investigator (PI), with conflicts being resolved at the PI’s discretion. All team members should be informed about the authorship determination process early in the project and their agreement regarding its use must be obtained. While the CalculAuthor was developed to be used in medical research, its customizability enables it to be employed in any field of academia. We recommend that the CalculAuthor be piloted within institutions before its mainstream adoption, and any institution-specific factors should be considered to make the process more efficient and suitable.

Introduction: Rhodococcus is an extremely rare, gram positive, aerobic, coccobacillary organism, usually found in the soil or in dairy and livestock animals. It is most commonly affecting the immunocompromised. Only 15 % of cases have been reported in immunocompetent hosts. Case report: We bring forth the unusual case of a 45-year-old gem minor who had already undergone pericardial window due to pericardial effusion. He presented to us with recurrent pericardial effusion and anterior mediastinal mass diagnosed on Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiogram scan. He was diagnosed with Rhodococcus as being the causative organism of the condition on pericardial fluid cultures. This is an extremely rare manifestation of Rhodococcus infection, which has not yet been reported in literature to the best of our knowledge. Discussion: The first human case of Rhodococcus was reported in a young male upon steroidal therapy for autoimmune hepatitis who developed pneumonia in 1967. Rhodococci infections are usually common in immunocompromised hosts, and only 19 cases have been reported in immunocompetent hosts till now. The usual signs of presentation are cough, pleuritic chest pain, and fever; however, it varies according to the site of infection. The most common manifestation is pneumonia, although other presentations include osteomyelitis, brain abscess, wound infections, etc. Result: The diagnosis and treatment of Rhodococci is very difficult due to the rarity of presentation. Despite that, surgical intervention should be considered as the preferred modality for diagnostic purposes and in infections resistant to medical management.

Abstract Background Unhealthy habits and poor diet patterns are significant concerns among adolescents, impacting their overall quality of life. This study aimed to assess and improve these habits in adolescents. Methods This is a cross-sectional study conducted in 2017–2018 in Karachi. The research participants, aged 11–17 years, were drawn from lower-middle-income secondary schools using multistage random selection. Sociodemographics, the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A), and breakfast consumption were determined through questionnaire and a food frequency survey. Results A study of 334 school-going adolescents in Karachi, Pakistan, found that 82% consumed breakfast daily, with chapatti being the preferred choice (72.2%). Physical activity levels varied, but 56.6% engaged in regular activity. No significant differences were found in breakfast consumption by age or parental education. Conclusions Understanding South Asian adolescents’ breakfast habits is crucial. Promoting healthier breakfast options and increased physical activity are recommended for long-term well-being, with further research needed for targeted interventions.

Malaria is an endemic disease in tropical countries, including Indonesia, with a high annual mortality rate. Because of that, serious attention shall be given to find new antimalarial agents that are highly active for medical treatment. In this work, we designed and synthesized three calix[4]resorcinarene derivatives and evaluated them as antimalarial agents through in vitro heme polymerization inhibitory assay. The calix[4]resorcinarenes were prepared from resorcinol and corresponding aldehyde derivatives in ethanol media through a cyclo-condensation reaction. The calix[4]resorcinarene products were obtained in 31.1–85.1% yield. The synthesized compounds were subjected to structure elucidation using spectroscopy techniques. The antimalarial activity of calix[4]resorcinarene with aromatic substituent (IC50 = 0.198 mg/mL) was higher than the aliphatic ones (IC50 = 0.282–0.814 mg/mL). It was found that all calix[4]resorcinarenes in this work exhibited stronger antimalarial activity than chloroquine diphosphate as the positive control (IC50 = 1.157 mg/mL). The calix[4]resorcinarenes could interact with hydrogen bonding, thus inhibiting the heme polymerization process. These findings demonstrate that calix[4]resorcinarene derivatives are potential antimalarial agents to be developed for effective medical treatment in the near future.

3,4-Dimethoxychalcone and rutin, a flavonoid that contains chromophore groups, can absorb UV light and thus can be developed as a sunscreen. The objective of this study was to determine the optimum formula of 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin containing gel, evaluate its physical stability, and activity of 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin gel as a sunscreen through in vitro and in vivo tests. HPMC, CMC-Na, and methylcellulose were formulated into a gel base to obtain good adhesion and a clear appearance gel. Simplex Lattice Design (SLD) with Design Expert software version 10 was utilized to determine the optimum gel formulation. UVA-PF protection, photostability with transpore method, and acute dermal irritation test were performed to evaluate sunscreen activity of 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin gel. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. The results showed that the optimum formula for 3,4-dimethoxychalcone-rutin gel consisted of 1.5% HPMC, 1.8% CMC-Na and 0.6% methylcellulose, which showed a pH of 6.96, viscosity of 89.10 dpa.s, and spreadability of 16.30 cm2. The pH, viscosity, and spreadability of base and 3,4-dimethoxychalcone- rutin gel was stable for 4 weeks of storage. The UVA-PF value is 6.48 which according to the FDA is included in the category of a two star (**) sunscreen label. The sunscreen did not exhibit a shift in wavelength after 6 hours of irradiation. Based on the primary irritation test, 3,4-dimethoxychalcone- rutin sunscreen produced zero (0) erythema and edema index. Thus, it did not cause irritation to the skin of experimental animals. Therefore, the gel containing 3,4-dimethoxychalcone and rutin had potential as a sunscreen product based on in vitro-in vivo tests and was safe on animal skin.

Abstract Background Aorto-cavitary fistula is a rare complication of infective endocarditis. Multimodal imaging is commonly required to assess the severity and extent of infection because of the complex pathology of the valvular and paravalvular apparatus in endocarditis. Case presentation We present an unusual case of a middle-aged man with recent history of meningoencephalitis who developed infective endocarditis complicated by ruptured abscess in inter-valvular fibrosa between aortic and mitral valve resulting in free communication or fistula formation between aorta and left atrium. Patient underwent double valve replacement (aortic and mitral) along with repair of the aorta. Conclusions Our case highlights recognition of this rare clinical presentation of aorto-left atrial fistula in infective endocarditis and the diagnostic role of transesophageal echocardiography in good clinical outcome with aggressive and timely management.

Testicular choriocarcinomas make up less than 1% of all germ-cell tumors and are highly malignant, attributable to hematogenous spread. While the most common sites of metastasis are the lungs and liver, metastatic spread to the gastrointestinal tract is rare wherein patients may present with GI distress or even an upper GI bleed. In this report, we present a case of known testicular choriocarcinoma in a 40-year-old male who presented to the emergency room with severe anemia and a suspected upper GI bleed.

This study aims to analyze patents relating to new plant varieties of Lamiaceae, a plant family recognized for the interest of these genera in the medicinal and aromatic fields. The study also seeks to identify the genera and species most exploited in innovative applications. To identify the latest trends in this area, we systematically reviewed patents concentrating on new varieties of Lamiaceae. The relevant patent documents were identified within a specialized database using the International Patent Classification. The United States encompasses all plant patents in this area, and it is considered the leading jurisdiction. This is also confirmed by the American organizations, which led the way with the most applicants. The Lamiaceae genera concerned with the legal protection of new plant varieties comprise 23 genera. Among them are Plectranthus, Salvia, and Lavandula, which present 55.4% of total patent documents in this area. The essential objective claimed by the majority of patent documents analyzed in this study is ornamental. Furthermore, other inventive purposes are also claimed in the patent documents, but with a low percentage, such as genetic engineering, the selection of a compound, etc.