12703036 research outputs found
Sort by
Optimization of coconut oil extraction through microwave drying and enzymatic–ultrasound treatment with emphasis on yield and quality parameters
No full textAbstract Coconuts are a valuable industrial, economic, and nutritional resource, widely used in the production of food, cosmetics, and biofuels. The objective was to evaluate the extraction of coconut oil from a hybrid derived from the crossbreeding of the Tall Caribbean x Dwarf Malayan varieties using heat transfer and enzymatic technologies. Physicochemical parameters were determined for the fresh pulp and coconut oil obtained using drying methods (forced air oven and microwave) in combination with the extraction process. The enzymatic extraction process of coconut oil was then optimized using Lipozyme® TL IM lipase (1.0, 2.0, and 3.0% w/w) with different water contents (15, 25, and 35% w/v) and ultrasound reaction times (30, 60, and 90 min), using response surface methodology. The fatty acids present in the methods with the highest yield were identified and quantified by GC/MS. The coconut copra had 45.65 ± 1.34% moisture, 1.06 ± 0.08% minerals, 62.45 ± 1.15% fat and oil, 4.93 ± 0.15% protein, and 0.48 ± 0.01% crude fiber. The drying methods did not show significant differences in oil yield. Microwave drying followed by non-heating extraction (MOFF) showed the best yield (62.80 ± 4.92%) with 0.06 ± 0.01% moisture, 0.20 ± 0.01% lauric acid, density of 0.92 ± 0.01 g/mL, pH of 5.31 ± 0.28, L* of 2.72 ± 0.49, a* of -0.08 ± 0.03, b* of -0.24 ± 0.11, and stability of 1.32 ± 0.05 years. The response surface methodology optimized the extraction conditions at a water content of 35%, lipase at 1.0%, and 30 min of ultrasound reaction for yields greater than 70% and improved oil quality. The main saturated fatty acids were lauric acid (C12:0) and long-chain fatty acids (C14:0 and C16:0) with values of 46.18 and 46.62, 21.15 and 22.24, 10.17, and 10.02 g/100 g of extracted coconut oil for MOFF and enzyme-optimized, respectively. Coconut oil from the Tall Caribbean x Dwarf Malayan hybrid represents a high yield agroindustrial alternative with a favorable fatty acid profile for applications in nutrition and cosmetics
Optimization of serum-free medium supplemented with microalgal extract using response surface methodology for human fibroblast culture
No full textAbstract Background Animal cell culture has become an essential tool in biomedical research and industrial vaccine and biopharmaceutical development. Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is widely used as a culture supplement because of its rich composition of nutrients and growth factors. However, concerns over pathogen contamination and immunogenicity have prompted regulatory agencies to discourage its clinical application and motivated the development of serum-free media alternatives. Results In this study, a serum-free medium was developed for human lung fibroblasts (MRC-5) and optimized using response surface methodology in terms of the growth factor contents: EGF (9.3 ng/mL), IGF-1 (4.0 ng/mL), IGF-2 (4.3 ng/mL), ITS (4.5 µg/mL), and PDGF-CC (6.9 ng/mL). The optimized growth factor mixture (OGM) (G2/M, 32.0%) and addition of 200 µg/mL of Haematococcus pluvialis extracts (HE200) (OGM + HE200, G2/M, 35.3%) significantly enhanced cell proliferation by promoting cell cycle progression, particularly the G2/M phase compare with DMEM (G2/M, 15.0%). Moreover, Ki-67, a nuclear proliferation marker, showed increased expression in OGM-treated cells (mRNA, 2.7 fold) compared with those cultured in DMEM as evaluated by immunocytochemistry and qPCR. The addition of HE200 (mRNA, 4.0 fold) exerted synergistic effects with OGM, further promoting cell proliferation and the expression of cell cycle–related genes. Conclusions The study demonstrated the potential of combining an OGM and HE to support cell growth under serum-free conditions, providing a functional alternative to FBS
Serum clusterin in primary knee osteoarthritis patients and its relation with disease activity, severity, and ultrasonographic findings
No full textAbstract Background Osteoarthritis (OA) represents the most prevalent form of arthritis worldwide and constitutes a significant cause of pain and disability in the geriatric population. OA is characterized by its complex, degenerative, and inflammatory nature, thereby contributing to escalating costs within global healthcare and social welfare systems. Clusterin (CLU), a secreted glycoprotein that was purified in 1983, is widely expressed in various organs and induced during cellular stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. The aim of the work was to determine serum level of CLU in patients with primary knee OA and study their correlations with disease activity, radiographic severity and ultrasound assessment. Methodology This cross-sectional study included 60 individuals. Participants were allocated to two distinct groups: 30 patients with primary KOA, diagnosed according to the 2016 revised ACR criteria, and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. All participants underwent comprehensive history-taking, clinical examination, assessment of serum CLU concentrations, and imaging studies, including plain radiography and ultrasonography of the most affected knee joint. Results Our study showed a statistically significant difference in median CLU concentrations between cases and the control group (31.07 vs. 3.92, respectively; P < 0.001). Statistically significant positive correlation between CLU concentrations and disease duration (r = 0.384), BMI (r = 0.582), presence of deformity (r = 0.592), US grading (r = 0.931), US assessing osteophytes (r = 0.493), and X-ray grading (r = 0.771). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed an area under the curve of 0.957 (95% CI: 0.90–1.00), showing high diagnostic accuracy. The optimal cut-off point of ≥ 15.19 µg/mL provided 96.7% sensitivity, 90.0% specificity, and 93.3% total accuracy. Conclusions Elevated Serum CLU concentrations in patients with primary KOA compared to healthy controls might reflect disease activity, radiographic severity, and ultrasonographic changes. The high sensitivity and specificity highlight its ability to distinguish OA patients from healthy individuals
Primary angiitis of the central nervous system: predictors of stroke during immunosuppressant treatment
No full textAbstract Objective To evaluate predictors of ischemic stroke in patients with primary angiitis of the central nervous system after initiation of immunosuppressive therapy. Materials and methods This retrospective study included 204 MRI examinations of 23 patients with primary angiitis of the central nervous system, treated with immunosuppressive therapy between 2015 and 2020 at the University Hospital Bern and the Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland. Two senior neuroradiologists evaluated the MRI exams with regard to the occurrence and location of ischemic stroke and hemorrhage, as well as the following characteristics of inflamed vessels on 3D time-of-flight angiography and T1 dark-blood post contrast: signal intensity of vessel walls, length of enhancement, circular extent of enhancement, and stenosis. After matching ischemic strokes to their corresponding vessel, the temporal relationship of vessel alterations in accordance with therapy initiation and stroke onset was calculated. Results The majority (77.6%) of observed strokes were in the vascular territory of an inflamed vessel. A significant, non-linear temporal relationship between the timing of MRI and the initiation of immunosuppression was found. The highest predicted probability of ischemic stroke was observed between 10 and 20 days after the initiation of immunosuppressant therapy, reaching approximately 12%. Out of all evaluated vessel characteristics, a higher degree of stenosis (Estimate: 0.93, p = 0.006) and a higher circularity of enhancement (Estimate: 0.76, p = 0.01) were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of stroke. Conclusions A better understanding of unfavorable constellations (critical timeframe, characteristic vessel wall changes) in patients treated for primary angiitis of the central nervous system may help to prevent secondary ischemic strokes. Critical relevance statement A better understanding of ischemic stroke predictors in patients treated for primary angiitis of the central nervous system may prompt closer monitoring or therapy adjustment. Key Points To evaluate risk factors for ischemic stroke in patients treated for primary angiitis of the central nervous system. Higher degree of stenosis and circular enhancement are associated with a higher likelihood of ischemic strokes, which typically occur between 10 and 20 days after therapy onset. Data obtained from this may prompt closer monitoring or therapy adjustment. Graphical Abstrac
Exploring the role of quantitative susceptibility mapping in assessing brain iron deposition in hemodialysis patients
No full textAbstract Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) develop brain iron deposition due to iron metabolism disorders induced by long-term hemodialysis. This abnormal iron accumulation accelerates cognitive impairment (CI) and neurodegenerative pathologies. Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM), a technique capable of precisely quantifying magnetic susceptibility, provides a novel perspective for the noninvasive and dynamic monitoring of cerebral iron distribution. Monitoring brain iron deposition using QSM facilitates the development of individualized clinical treatment strategies. This review systematically examines the application of QSM in studying brain iron deposition in hemodialysis patients, with a focus on analyzing the dynamic patterns of iron deposition pre- and post-dialysis and during follow-up periods. It further explores the relationship between QSM findings and iron metabolism dysregulation, blood-brain barrier (BBB) injury, and oxidative stress. Additionally, the predictive value of QSM for clinical neurological functional prognosis following iron chelation therapy is discussed. Critical relevance statement QSM studies on cerebral iron deposition in hemodialysis patients require further monitoring of its spatial-temporal dynamics and changes after iron chelation. Future research should focus on technical standardization, longitudinal tracking, and treatment response to establish a precision neuroimaging-guided framework. Key Points This review exploration is warranted to monitor the spatial distribution and dynamic changes of brain iron deposition in this population. The relationships between QSM findings and iron metabolism dysregulation, blood-brain barrier injury, and oxidative stress are explored. This review focuses on issues in the fields of technology standardization, longitudinal monitoring, and treatment responsiveness. Graphical Abstrac
Preoperative contrast-enhanced CT prediction of distinct vascular patterns in solitary early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma and its prognostic value
No full textAbstract Objectives To investigate the value of qualitative and quantitative contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) features for noninvasive identification of two distinct vascular patterns, vessels that encapsulate tumor clusters (VETC) and/or microvascular invasion (MVI), in solitary early-stage (BCLC 0-A) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and assess their prognostic implications. Materials and methods We retrospectively included 347 patients with solitary early-stage HCC who underwent preoperative CECT and subsequent resection at two centers. Patients were divided into V/M+ (MVI and/or VETC positive, n = 174) and VM− (both MVI and VETC negative, n = 173) groups based on histopathology. Four predictive models (clinical, CT quantitative, CT qualitative, and combined) integrating clinical and CECT features were developed and validated for identifying V/M+ status. The optimal model was further applied to predict 2-year recurrence-free survival (RFS). Sensitivity analysis was performed using propensity score matching (PSM). Models’ performance was evaluated and compared using AUC analyses and DeLong tests. Results The combined model [serum AFP ≥ 200 ng/mL, non-smooth tumor margin, internal arteries, and lower tumor-to-liver density ratio in the portal venous phase (P-TLR)] achieved optimal predictive performance for V/M + HCC, with training AUC of 0.784 and 0.782 pre- and post-PSM, and external validating AUC of 0.794. A derived V/M+ score stratified patients, with higher scores associated with significantly shorter 2-year RFS. V/M+ score ≥ 34 and tumor size ≥ 60 mm were significant predictors of HCC recurrence (p < 0.05). Conclusion The combined model integrating clinical and CECT-based features, enables non-invasive assessment of V/M status in early-stage solitary HCC and effectively stratifies patients according to recurrence risk. Critical relevance statement Specific CT-based qualitative and quantitative features are associated with a distinct vascular pattern of BCLC stage 0-A HCC. The developed combined model and derived V/M+ score offer a reliable tool for clinicians to predict V/M + HCC and patients’ 2-year RFS. Key Points Specific CECT-based qualitative and quantitative features are associated with V/M + HCC at the BCLC stage 0-A. The developed combined model offers a reliable tool for clinicians to identify V/M + HCC. The derived V/M+ score helps stratify HCC patients into high- and low-risk groups for 2-year RFS, facilitating personalized management of HCC. Graphical Abstrac
Heritage adaptive reuse for commercialisation: a bibliometric analysis of current and future trends
No full textAbstract This study explores the development of heritage adaptive reuse within the context of commercialisation. It seeks to map the knowledge structure of the field, identify emerging trends, and indicate gaps that shape future research directions. In this study, a bibliometric approach is used to analyse 341 peer-reviewed journal articles from the Dimensions database (1993–2024). The topic of heritage adaptive reuse has remained largely underexplored before 2019, with fewer than five studies published. However, research output increased sharply thereafter, reaching 85 articles in 2024, signalling its rapid emergence as a key area of research. Bibliographic coupling and coword analysis are conducted using VOSviewer to extract the dominant themes and scholarly linkages. The study identifies four key research clusters: governance and investment frameworks, decision support models, community-centred reuse, and value-based restoration. Commercialisation is increasingly framed as a strategic urban intervention rather than merely an economic or conservation activity. However, gaps remain in digital integration, interdisciplinary modelling, and application in non-European contexts. The findings can guide policy-makers, planners, and developers in aligning heritage reuse with investment strategies, stakeholder participation, and sustainable urban regeneration. The present study underscores the need for flexible governance, community engagement, and evidence-based evaluation tools. This is among the first bibliometric studies to focus on commercialisation in heritage adaptive reuse. By mapping the key connections and themes across the literature, this study provides a strategic roadmap for advancing the field towards inclusive, scalable, and innovation-driven reuse practices
Robotic-assisted optical navigation system for CT-guided preoperative percutaneous Hook-wire localization of pulmonary nodules: a prospective, single-center, single-arm clinical study
No full textAbstract Background Robotic-assisted navigation systems for the localization of nonvisible and nonpalpable pulmonary nodules have demonstrated feasibility and safety in preclinical animal studies; however, clinical evidence supporting their practical application remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the safety and feasibility of using a robotic-assisted system for computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous localization of lung nodules. Methods A total of 137 consecutive patients with 155 nodules were included in the final analysis, all of whom underwent percutaneous hook-wire localization using a novel robotic-assisted optical navigation system. The baseline characteristics of patients and nodules, localization procedure findings, and exploratory outcomes of the correlations between pulmonary nodule features and localization procedure findings were analyzed. Results The localization success rate was 100%. With the assistance of the robotic-assisted optical navigation system, the median number of needle adjustments per target was 0 (ranging from 0 to 2) in this study, with a mean deviation of 1.49 ± 1.93 mm. The mean intervention time was 8.24 ± 1.77 min during the robotic-assisted process. Notably, there was no significant change in the accuracy influenced by the location, type, size of nodules, distance to pleura, and decubitus positions. Localization-related complications occurred in 13 (8.39%) out of 155 targets, including 3 (1.94%) minor hemorrhages and 10 (6.45%) minor pneumothoraxes, and no dislodgement was observed in any of the cases. All surgeries were successfully performed with a mean time interval between nodule localization and surgery of 133.67 ± 103.36 min. Conclusions This prospective, single-center, single-arm clinical study suggests both feasibility and safety of an innovative robotic-assisted optical navigation system for the CT-guided percutaneous localization of pulmonary nodules using hook-wire technique, as well as satisfactory accuracy during the needle placement
Research progress on early diagnostic markers for pancreatic cancer
No full textAbstract Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly aggressive malignancy characterized by insidious onset, rapid progression, and poor prognosis, predominantly affecting middle-aged and elderly men. Biomarker detection represents the most widely utilized approach for early PC diagnosis, encompassing both traditional and novel categories. Although traditional biomarkers like CA 19 − 9 are widely employed clinically, they carry a risk of false negatives in Lewis antigen-negative individuals, underscoring the urgent need for multi-parameter detection strategies to enhance accuracy. Integrating core indicators such as CEA and CA 242 can significantly improve the diagnostic effect of early PC and optimize diagnosis and treatment decisions. In recent years, breakthroughs have been made in biomarkers. Novel detection methods such as liquid biopsy and exosomes are entering the scope of clinical application. Due to their non-invasive nature, good sensitivity and specificity, these innovative biomarkers are gradually replacing traditional biomarkers and have become a new research focus. At present, single traditional biomarkers have limitations in diagnosing PC, while novel biomarkers lack extensive clinical verification. Meanwhile, there is no systematic review article specifically for early screening of PC to comprehensively evaluate the value and application prospects of these biomarkers. Therefore, this article provides a narrative review and comprehensive overview of the research progress on biomarkers related to the early diagnosis of PC in recent years
Relationship between ABO blood group and lymph node metastasis in colon cancer: a retrospective cohort study
No full textAbstract Purpose Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, according to GLOBOCAN 2022. Lymph node metastasis is a well-recognized prognostic factor in colorectal cancer. While the relationship between ABO blood group, Rhesus (Rh) type, and lymphatic spread has been studied in other gastrointestinal tumors, limited research exists on colorectal cancer. This study primarily aimed to investigate the association between lymph node metastasis and ABO blood group, as well as the relationship between microsatellite instability (MSI) and ABO blood group. Methods . A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted, including all patients who underwent elective colorectal resections with curative intent for malignant colorectal tumors between March 2017 and March 2023. Eligible patients had documented ABO blood group and Rh type, along with pathology reports from surgical specimens. Results . The study included 270 patients, with a median age of 74.5 years-old. The cohort was predominantly female (50.4%). Lymph node metastasis was observed in 156 patients (57.7%). A binary logistic regression model identified factors associated with lymphatic spread: rectal tumor location (OR: 3.85, 95% CI: 1.14–15.60), poorly differentiated tumors (OR: 6.84, 95% CI: 1.37–53.80), invasion depth T3 (OR: 4.88, 95% CI: 1.72–16.90) and T4 (OR: 16.20, 95% CI: 4.78–65.60), and extramural vein invasion (OR: 7.17, 95% CI: 1.37–53.80). Notably, the AB blood group (OR: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.01–0.65) was associated with a lower likelihood of lymph node metastasis, suggesting a potential protective effect. A separate binary logistic regression analysis evaluating factors related to MSI found no statistically significant associations, including for ABO blood group and Rh antigen. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the AB blood group is associated with a reduced likelihood of lymph node metastasis compared to other blood groups. However, the existing literature on the relationship between blood group and lymph node metastasis is inconsistent. Further research is necessary to clarify the prognostic role of ABO blood group in colorectal cancer
Data sources:
Access Repository Dashboard
Do you manage Directory of Open Access Journals? Access insider analytics, issue reports and manage access to outputs from your repository in the CORE Repository Dashboard!