Automatic Characterization of Prostate Suspect Lesions on T2-Weighted Image Acquisitions Using Texture Features and Machine-Learning Methods: A Pilot Study.

: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most frequent neoplasia in the male population. According to the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP), PCa can be divided into two major groups, based on their prognosis and treatment options. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) holds a central role in PCa assessment; however, it does not have a one-to-one correspondence with the histopathological grading of tumors.

Risk Factor Analysis in Vascular Access Complications for Hemodialysis Patients.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and renal failure remain critical global health challenges, with vascular access complications posing significant obstacles in hemodialysis management. This study investigates the early and late complications associated with vascular access procedures in a cohort of 1334 patients from Timiș County Emergency Clinical Hospital. Patients were categorized into early complications, occurring within 30 days postoperatively, and late complications, developing beyond this period.

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection Involving the Left Main with Extension to Left Anterior Descending Artery and Left Circumflex Artery: Diagnostic and Management Challenges.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is a rare cause of unstable angina, myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death, particularly among young women and individuals without conventional atherosclerotic risk factors. We present the case of a 43-year-old woman who had spontaneous coronary artery dissection involving the left main with extension to left anterior descending artery and left circumflex artery. She was ultimately managed medically, with a good outcome.

Challenges in Diagnosing Focal Liver Lesions Using Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has become the preferred method for many clinicians in evaluating focal liver lesions (FLLs) initially identified through standard ultrasound. However, in clinical practice, certain lesions may deviate from the typical enhancement patterns outlined in EFSUMB guidelines. This study aims to assess FLLs that remained inconclusive or misdiagnosed after CEUS evaluation, spanning eight years of single-center experience.

Effect of Treatment with Progestins and Antiplatelet Agents on IVF in Women with Adenomyosis and Recurrent Implantation Failure.

This prospective study aims to identify the effect of the dienogest 2 mg/day and aspirin 150 mg/day combined treatment for two months before frozen ET on the assisted reproduction outcome in women with adenomyosis and recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Patients were selected based on specific criteria and divided into two groups (with and without treatment). Preimplantation biochemical parameters and ultrasonographic features (endometrial thickness, uterine peristalsis, and junctional zone thickness) were compared with pregnancy rate in a non-natural cycle frozen embryo transfer technique.

Enhanced Tribological and Mechanical Properties of Copper-Modified Basalt-Reinforced Epoxy Composites.

The increasing demand for high-performance materials in industrial applications highlights the need for composites with enhanced mechanical and tribological properties. Basalt fiber-reinforced polymers (BFRP) are promising materials due to their superior strength-to-weight ratio and environmental benefits, yet their wear resistance and tensile performance often require further optimization. This study examines how adding copper (Cu) powder to epoxy resin influences the mechanical and tribological properties of BFRP composites.

In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of rPET/Cu-Alg Nanofibers for Anti-Infective Therapy.

With the growing interest in nanofibers and the urgent need to address environmental concerns associated with plastic waste, there is an increasing focus on using recycled materials to develop advanced healthcare solutions. This study explores the potential of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) nanofibers, functionalized with copper-enhanced alginate, for applications in wound dressings. Nanofibers with desirable antimicrobial properties were developed using chemical recycling and electrospinning techniques, offering a sustainable and effective option for managing wound infections and promoting healing.

Zinc Oxide-Loaded Recycled PET Nanofibers for Applications in Healthcare and Biomedical Devices.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a widely utilized synthetic polymer, favored in various applications for its desirable physicochemical characteristics and widespread accessibility. However, its extensive utilization, coupled with improper waste disposal, has led to the alarming pollution of the environment. Thus, recycling PET products is essential for diminishing global pollution and turning waste into meaningful materials.

Multi-Parametric Optimization of 3D-Printed Components.

This study explores the experimental and theoretical optimization of process parameters to improve the quality of 3D-printed parts produced using the Fused Deposition Modeling technique. To ensure the cost-effective production of high-quality components, advancements in printing strategies are essential. This research identifies optimal 3D printing strategies to enhance the quality of finished products.

Applications of Natural Polymers in the Grapevine Industry: Plant Protection and Value-Added Utilization of Waste.

The grapevine industry is confronted with challenges such as plant stress from environmental factors and microbial infections, alongside the need for sustainable waste management practices. Natural polymers offer promising solutions to these issues due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and functional versatility. This review explores the dual role of natural polymers in enhancing the grapevine industry: as protective agents against various stressors and as carriers for the delivery of valuable compounds recovered from grapevine wastes.

Evaluating Maize Hybrids for Yield, Stress Tolerance, and Carotenoid Content: Insights into Breeding for Climate Resilience.

To ensure food and feed security, modern maize hybrids must not only perform well under changing climate conditions but also consistently achieve higher and stable yields, exhibit maximum tolerance to stress factors, and produce high quality grains. In a study conducted in 2022 and 2023, 50 maize hybrids were developed from crosses of five elite (highly productive) inbred lines and ten lines possessing favorable genes for carotenoid content. These hybrids were tested under particularly unfavorable conditions for maize cultivation.

Assessment of Fruit Traits and Antioxidant Capacity in Wild and Cultivated Genotypes of sp.

The genus includes numerous species, both cultivated and wild, offering significant genetic variability and economic potential that are often overlooked. Due to their high variability and ecological plasticity, jujube species and genotypes can be utilized in marginal areas and on land where few plants could be efficiently exploited. This study investigated variations in morphological characteristics (qualitative and quantitative), bioactive content (e.

A High-Quality Phased Genome Assembly of Stinging Nettle ( ssp. ).

Stinging nettles () have a long history of association with human civilization, having been used as a source of textile fibers, food and medicine. Here, we present a chromosome-level, phased genome assembly for a diploid female clone of from Romania. Using a combination of PacBio HiFi, Oxford Nanopore, and Illumina sequencing, as well as Hi-C long-range interaction data (using a novel Hi-C protocol presented here), we assembled two haplotypes of 574.

Development of Solid Nanosystem for Delivery of Chlorhexidine with Increased Antimicrobial Activity and Decreased Cytotoxicity: Characterization and In Vitro and In Ovo Toxicological Screening.

The evaluation of chlorhexidine-carrier nanosystems based on iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (IOMNPs), has gained significant attention in recent years due to the unique properties of the magnetic nanoparticles (NPSs). Chlorhexidine (CHX), a well-established antimicrobial agent, has been widely used in medical applications, including oral hygiene and surgical antisepsis. This study aims to report an in vitro and in ovo toxicological screening of the synthesized CHX-NPS nanosystem, of the carrier matrix (maghemite NPSs) and of the drug to be delivered (CHX solution), by employing two types of cell lines-HaCaT immortalized human keratinocytes and JB6 Cl 41-5a murine epidermal cells.

Plant-Derived Compounds in Hemp Seeds ( L.): Extraction, Identification and Bioactivity-A Review.

The growing demand for plant-based protein and natural food ingredients has further fueled interest in exploring hemp seeds ( L.) as a sustainable source of and nutrition. In addition to the content of proteins and healthy fats (linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid), hemp seeds are rich in phytochemical compounds, especially terpenoids, polyphenols, and phytosterols, which contribute to their bioactive properties.

Synthesis of Novel Benzothiazole-Profen Hybrid Amides as Potential NSAID Candidates.

Herein, we report the synthesis of a series of new compounds by combining 2-aminobenzothiazole with various profens. The compounds were characterized using techniques such as H- and C-NMR, FT-IR spectrometry, and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), with detailed HRMS analysis conducted for each molecule. Their biological activities were tested in vitro, revealing significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, comparable to those of standard reference compounds.

Natural and Synthetic Flavylium Derivatives: Isolation/Synthesis, Characterization and Application.

Given the natural origins of flavylium derivatives, their chemical modifications, and their large potential uses in food, medicine, or green chemistry, the present review is a comprehensive study of flavylium-derived compounds. Several topics such as the green extraction and isolation techniques of flavylium derivatives including their chemical modifications and various characterization tools such as NMR, HPLC, and mass spectrometry are discussed in the review. Furthermore, the use of these derivatives in medicine, food, and materials science is presented, highlighting their relevance and the need for further investigation.

Synthesis, Physicochemical Properties, and Ion Recognition Ability of Azulene-Based Bis-(Thio)Semicarbazone.

Azulene-1,3-bis(semicarbazone), , and azulene-1,3-bis(thiosemicarbazone), , were synthesized by the acid-catalyzed condensation reactions of semicarbazide and thiosemicarbazide, respectively, with azulene-1,3-dicarboxaldehyde in stoichiometric amounts. Compounds and were identified by high-resolution mass spectrometry and characterized by IR, H-NMR, C-NMR, and UV-vis spectroscopic techniques. Crystal structure determination of azulene-1,3-bis(thiosemicarbazone) shows that the thiosemicarbazone units exhibit a -closed conformation, with both arms oriented in the same direction and adopting an configuration with respect to the imine linkages.

A Review on Current Aspects of Curcumin-Based Effects in Relation to Neurodegenerative, Neuroinflammatory and Cerebrovascular Diseases.

Curcumin is among the most well-studied natural substances, known for its biological actions within the central nervous system, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and human health benefits. However, challenges persist in effectively utilising curcumin, addressing its metabolism and passage through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in therapies targeting cerebrovascular diseases. Current challenges in curcumin's applications revolve around its effects within neoplastic tissues alongside the development of intelligent formulations to enhance its bioavailability.

Effects of Metamizole, 4-Methylaminoantipyrine, and 4-Aminoantipyrine on LX-2 Liver Cell Line Viability and Apoptosis.

Metamizole (dipyrone) is a non-opioid analgesic widely used in human and veterinary medicine, despite ongoing concerns about its safety due to risks such as agranulocytosis and potential hepatotoxicity. This study investigates the cytotoxic (MTT assay) and pro-apoptotic effects of metamizole and its primary metabolites, 4-methylaminoantipyrine (4-MAA) and 4-aminoantipyrine (4-AA), on the LX-2 liver cell line. These metabolites are implicated in both the therapeutic and adverse effects of the drug.

Heavy Metal Accumulation (Cd, As, Zn, Cu, Cr) in Hair and Bones of Small Mammal Prey of the Sentinel Species Common Genet () in an Anthropogenic Environment of Edough Mountain Forest, Northeastern Algeria.

Heavy metal pollution has complex impacts on terrestrial ecosystems, affecting biodiversity, trophic relationships, species health, and the quality of natural resources. This study aims to validate a non-invasive method for detecting heavy metals (Cd, As, Zn, Cu, Cr) in micromammalian prey, which constitute the primary diet of the common genet (), a mesocarnivore sensitive to habitat degradation. By focusing on prey remains (hair and bones) rather than entire fecal samples, this approach leverages the genet's selective feeding habits to assess the bioaccumulation of contaminants in its preferred prey.

Food resilience and adaptation on the move: the importance of fostering studies on the Romani local knowledge systems.

This analysis explores the food local knowledge of the Romani people in Italy, one of the most significant and historically marginalised ethnic groups in Europe. Despite their centuries-long presence across European countries, the Romani community's culinary and herbal practices have often been overlooked. A preliminary study on Romani domestic food and home (plant) remedies was conducted via 106 interviews in Turin, Rome, and Naples during the past fifteen years among urban Romani community members (who migrated to Italy from Romania and Serbia approximately three decades ago).