Saved Queries

Background: Repeat cardiac operations carry increased risk of morbidity and mortality due to adhesions between the heart and adjacent structures, which increase the complexity of redo sternotomy and the potential for reentry injury. Preoperative CT imaging has been associated with a decreased risk for reentry injury. Methods: We present a series of two cases of complex thorax reentry in which a stepwise sternotomy approach enabled safe reentry. Results: Both patients tolerated the procedure well, with successful orthotopic heart transplantation in each case. A thorough review of the preoperative CT imaging enabled surgical planning to safely navigate structures at high risk for reentry injury. Conclusions: This series demonstrates the utility of two-stage sternotomy in complex thorax reentry cases and the importance of preoperative imaging for the safe surgical planning of such an approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 315 KiB

Open AccessReview

Evidence-Based Recommendations on the Use of Immunotherapies and Monoclonal Antibodies in the Treatment of Male Reproductive Cancers

by Farhan Khalid, Zubair Hassan Bodla, Sai Rakshith Gaddameedi, Raymart Macaset, Karan Yagnik, Zahra Niaz, Peter N. Fish, Doantrang Du and Shazia Shah

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020108 (registering DOI) - 14 Feb 2025

Abstract

The incidence of male reproductive cancers, including prostate, testicular, and penile cancers, has risen in recent years, raising important health concerns. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men, while penile cancer, though rare, typically affects men over 60. Testicular cancer, with a lifetime risk of about 0.4% in men, is most common among adolescents and young adults, decreasing sharply after the age of 40. Traditional treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and combinations thereof, but advancements in immunotherapy and monoclonal antibodies are showing promising results, particularly for genitourinary cancers. These therapies, targeting immune checkpoints and tumor-specific antigens, are gaining traction as effective alternatives for resistant cases. This review provides evidence-based recommendations on current and emerging immunotherapy and monoclonal antibody treatments for male reproductive cancers, highlighting future directions to optimize patient outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genitourinary Oncology)

19 pages, 1906 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sequences in the Cytoplasmic Tail Contribute to the Intracellular Trafficking and the Cell Surface Localization of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein

by Evgeniya E. Burkova and Irina A. Bakhno

Biomolecules 2025, 15(2), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15020280 (registering DOI) - 14 Feb 2025

Abstract

Spike protein is a surface glycoprotein of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, providing interaction of the coronavirus with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on the host cell. The cytoplasmic tail of the S protein plays an important role in an intracellular transport and translocation of the glycoprotein to the plasma membrane. The cytoplasmic domain of the S protein contains binding sites for COPI, COPII, and SNX27, which are required for the intracellular trafficking of this glycoprotein. In addition, the cytoplasmic domain of the S protein contains S-palmitoylation sites. S-palmitoylation increases the hydrophobicity of the S protein by regulating its transport to the plasma membrane. The cytoplasmic tail of the S protein has a signaling sequence that provides interaction with the ERM family proteins, which may mediate communication between the cell membrane and the actin cytoskeleton. This review examines the role of the cytoplasmic tail of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein in its intracellular transport and translocation to the plasma membrane. Understanding these processes is necessary not only for the development of vaccines based on mRNA or adenovirus vectors encoding the full-length spike (S) protein, but also for the therapy of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic and Structural Analyses of Coronaviruses: Insights into SARS-CoV-2 and Beyond)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

35 pages, 5990 KiB

Open AccessReview

Gels as Promising Delivery Systems: Physicochemical Property Characterization and Recent Applications

by Enzhao Wang, Zhaoying Qi, Yuzhou Cao, Ruixiang Li, Jing Wu, Rongshuang Tang, Yi Gao, Ruofei Du and Minchen Liu

Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(2), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17020249 (registering DOI) - 14 Feb 2025

Abstract

Gels constitute a versatile class of materials with considerable potential for applications in both technical and medical domains. Physicochemical property characterization is a critical evaluation method for gels. Common characterization techniques include pH measurement, structural analysis, mechanical property assessment, rheological analysis, and phase transition studies, among others. While numerous research articles report characterization results, few reviews comprehensively summarize the appropriate numerical ranges for these properties. This lack of standardization complicates harmonized evaluation methods and hinders direct comparisons between different gels. To address this gap, it is essential to systematically investigate characterization methods and analyze data from the extensive body of literature on gels. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of general characterization methods and present a detailed analysis of gel characterization data to support future research and promote standardized evaluation protocols. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Drug Delivery and Controlled Release)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1631 KiB

Open AccessReview

Influence of Mediterranean Diet and Incidence of Global Warming on Food Habits and Plant Growth in Northern Mediterranean Latitudes: Narrative Review

by Norbert Latruffe and Gérard Lizard

Nutrients 2025, 17(4), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17040677 (registering DOI) - 14 Feb 2025

Abstract

Background: Climate change has consequences for farming, food diversity and availability, and diet habits. There is now evidence that the Mediterranean climate is rapidly spreading to the Northern European latitudes. Objective: This narrative review aims to identify relevant studies related to climate change that could favor the progression of the Mediterranean climate in the northern latitudes of Europe, mainly in France, and to predict what the consequences of these changes on the human diet could be, especially using the concept of the Mediterranean diet, with subsequent impacts on health, farming, and eating habits. Methods: This narrative review was realized by consulting the PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. Results: The key points developed in this review are as follows: investigating the Mediterranean diet as a healthy diet, with evidence supporting health benefits and perspectives; similarities with other places in the world at the same Mediterranean latitudes; climate change and the resulting consequences on plant growth, farming, and food habits; and perspectives on the need for societal adaptations of populations towards agriculture, food, and cooking changes. As climate change facilitates the development of new farming practices with more or fewer environmental impacts, the growth of Mediterranean plants in the highest latitudes of Europe, such as olive trees, pomegranates, and almonds, has already begun for economic reasons. Future perspectives: In the near future, besides economic interests, climate change will favor the consumption of several products associated with the Mediterranean diet in the Northern European latitudes. In this context, producers and consumers play major roles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Diet – Health Benefits and Advances)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 1351 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Facial Recognition Algorithms: A Systematic Literature Review

by Nazar EL Fadel

J. Imaging 2025, 11(2), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/jimaging11020058 (registering DOI) - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

This systematic literature review aims to understand new developments and challenges in facial recognition technology. This will provide an understanding of the system principles, performance metrics, and applications of facial recognition technology in various fields such as health, society, and security from various academic publications, conferences, and industry news. A comprehensive approach was adopted in the literature review of various facial recognition technologies. It emphasizes the most important techniques in algorithm development, examines performance metrics, and explores their applications in various fields. The review mainly emphasizes the recent development in deep learning techniques, especially CNNs, which greatly improved the accuracy and efficiency of facial recognition systems. The findings reveal that there has been a noticeable evolution in facial recognition technology, especially with the current use of deep learning techniques. Nevertheless, it highlights important challenges, including privacy concerns, ethical dilemmas, and biases in the systems. These factors highlight the necessity of using facial recognition technology in an ethical and regulated manner. In conclusion, the paper proposes several future research directions to establish the reliability of facial recognition systems and reduce biases while building user confidence. These considerations are key to responsibly advancing facial recognition technology by ensuring ethical practices and safeguarding privacy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2148 KiB

Open AccessReview

by Philippe Gorce and Julien Jacquier-Bret

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10010066 (registering DOI) - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Nurses are highly exposed to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Global prevalence exceeds 80%, and several body areas are equally at risk. Numerous studies have assessed the exposure in many countries, but few have provided an overview by continent. The aim of this study was to propose a literature review and meta-analysis to investigate the overall and body area prevalence of WMSDs among nurses in Europe. Methods: A systematic review and a meta-analysis were conducted between September and November 2024. Five databases were scanned without a date limit: ScienceDirect, PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, Science.gov, and Mendeley. The article selection, review, critical appraisal, and data extraction were performed by two authors independently. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) was used for reporting the search results. Results: Among the 15,751 unique identified records, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included for data extraction. The studies reported a total of 5153 nurses in Europe. High heterogeneity (Cochran’s Q test and I² statistic) was observed between studies. The results of the meta-analysis based on the random-effects model showed an overall prevalence of 87.8% (95% CI: 83.3–92.2%). The highest prevalence was found for lower back 61.4% (95% CI: 55.1–67.7%), neck 49.9% (95% CI: 42.9–56.8%), and upper back 46.3% (95% CI: 42.4–50.2%). Conclusions: Nurses are highly exposed to WMSDs, with a prevalence of over 30% for three-quarters of body areas. Due to the multitude of risk factors associated with nurses’ work, the development of recommendations is a complex multifactorial issue, requiring the exploration of different strategies to reduce the prevalence of MSDs in nurses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics and Neuromuscular Control of Gait and Posture)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 862 KiB

Open AccessReview

Unlocking Gamete Quality Through Extracellular Vesicles: Emerging Perspectives

by Notsile H. Dlamini, Alessandra Bridi, Juliano Coelho da Silveira and Jean M. Feugang

Biology 2025, 14(2), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020198 (registering DOI) - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are gaining recognition for their essential role in enhancing gamete quality and improving outcomes in assisted reproductive technologies. These nanosized particles, released by cells, carry proteins, lipids, and RNAs, facilitating critical cell communication and offering the potential to enhance gamete maturation and improve fertilization rates. Most research on males has concentrated on seminal plasma, a complex fluid produced by the testes and accessory glands vital in modulating sperm fertility potential. The components of seminal plasma significantly affect sperm functionality, embryo survival, and placental development, making this a prominent area of interest in reproductive biology. The EVs within seminal plasma contribute to maintaining sperm membrane stability, enhancing motility, and promoting capacitation, which may influence the female reproductive tract following mating. In females, EVs have been identified in both the follicular and uterine environments, where effective embryo–maternal communication is crucial. The oviduct epithelium supports gamete transport and early embryonic development, with EVs found in oviductal fluid playing a key role in reproductive processes. These EVs support the embryo’s growth in the nutrient-rich uterine environment. These important studies underscore the significant role of EVs in transporting essential molecular compounds to gametes and embryos, leading to an enhanced understanding and potential manipulation of reproductive processes. This review aims to summarize the current research on the benefits of EVs in gamete manipulation and embryo development, highlighting their promising implications for reproductive health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers on Developmental Biology)

26 pages, 1047 KiB

Open AccessReview

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy: A Comprehensive Review

by Taha Shaikh, Darren Nguyen, Jasmine K. Dugal, Michael V. DiCaro, Brianna Yee, Nazanin Houshmand, KaChon Lei and Ali Namazi

J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(2), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12020071 (registering DOI) - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is characterized by structural abnormalities, arrhythmias, and a spectrum of genetic and clinical manifestations. Clinically, ARVC is structurally distinguished by right ventricular dilation due to increased adiposity and fibrosis in the ventricular walls, and it manifests as cardiac arrhythmias ranging from non-sustained ventricular tachycardia to sudden cardiac death. Its prevalence has been estimated to range from 1 in every 1000 to 5000 people, with its large range being attributed to the variability in genetic penetrance from asymptomatic to significant burden. It is even suggested that the prevalence is underestimated, as the presence of genotypic mutations does not always lead to clinical manifestations that would facilitate diagnosis. Additionally, while set criteria have been in place since the 1990s, newer understanding of this condition and advancements in cardiac technology have prompted multiple revisions in the diagnostic criteria for ARVC. Novel discoveries of gene variants predisposing patients to ARVC have led to established screening techniques while providing insight into genetic counseling and management. This review aims to provide an overview of the genetics, pathophysiology, and clinical approach to ARVC. It will also focus on clinical presentation, ARVC diagnostic criteria, electrophysiological findings, including electrocardiogram characteristics, and imaging findings from cardiac MRI, 2D, and 3D echocardiogram. Current management options—including anti-arrhythmic medications, device indications, and ablation techniques—and the effectiveness of treatment will also be reviewed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Treatment, and Genetics of Cardiomyopathy)

9 pages, 299 KiB

Open AccessProtocol

Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorder in Individuals with a History of Traumatic Brain Injury: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Zeeshan Ahmad Khan, Dewan Md. Sumsuzzman, Tahiris A. Duran, Ling-Sha Ju, Christoph N. Seubert and Anatoly E. Martynyuk

Biology 2025, 14(2), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020197 - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Postoperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) is a cognitive decline after general anesthesia and surgery, influenced by preexisting neurodegenerative conditions, stress, and inflammation. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is linked to a dysregulated stress response, neuroinflammation, and cognitive issues. Patients with TBI often need extracranial surgeries under general anesthesia (GA), which can increase stress, neuroinflammation, and neurodegenerative changes, raising PND risk. We will search databases like Ovid Medline and Embase for studies on cognitive function in patients with mild to moderate TBI who had extracranial surgeries under general anesthesia (GA). Screening and data extraction will be done manually and with AI-assisted tools (ASReview). Study quality will be assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Statistical analyses will include mean differences, odds ratios, and meta-regression, addressing heterogeneity, sensitivity, and publication bias using Stata/SE. By meta-analyzing clinical studies, we aim to determine if TBI and GA/surgery interact to induce PND. We will use various data sources, subgroup analyses, sensitivity analyses, and meta-regression to assess factors like age, gender, and type of GA/surgery. This meta-analysis will enhance our understanding of PND risks, inform clinical practices, and highlight new research directions. The systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024510980). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neurobiology of Traumatic Brain Injury)

43 pages, 1418 KiB

Open AccessReview

Prime Editing: Mechanistic Insights and DNA Repair Modulation

by Astrid Mentani, Marcello Maresca and Anna Shiriaeva

Cells 2025, 14(4), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14040277 - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Prime editing is a genome editing technique that allows precise modifications of cellular DNA without relying on donor DNA templates. Recently, several different prime editor proteins have been published in the literature, relying on single- or double-strand breaks. When prime editing occurs, the DNA undergoes one of several DNA repair pathways, and these processes can be modulated with the use of inhibitors. Firstly, this review provides an overview of several DNA repair mechanisms and their modulation by known inhibitors. In addition, we summarize different published prime editors and provide a comprehensive overview of associated DNA repair mechanisms. Finally, we discuss the delivery and safety aspects of prime editing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gene Therapy for Rare Diseases)

46 pages, 3429 KiB

Open AccessReview

Gum Arabic: A Commodity with Versatile Formulations and Applications

by Shaymaa A. Mohamed, Asmaa M. Elsherbini, Heba R. Alrefaey, Kareem Adelrahman, Alshaimaa Moustafa, Nishal M. Egodawaththa, Kaitlyn E. Crawford, Nasri Nesnas and Sally A. Sabra

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(4), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15040290 - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Gum Arabic (GA), or acacia gum, refers to the dried exudate produced by certain Acacia trees. GA is composed mainly of a mixture of polysaccharides and glycoproteins, with proportions that can slightly differ from one species to another. It is commonly utilized in the food and pharmaceutical industries as a stabilizer or an emulsifier owing to its biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, and antibacterial properties. In addition, GA can be manipulated as it possesses many functional groups that can be used in grafting, cross-linking, or chemical modifications to add a new feature to the developed material. In this review, we highlight recent GA-based formulations, including nanoparticles, hydrogels, nanofibers, membranes, or scaffolds, and their possible applications in tissue regeneration, cancer therapy, wound healing, biosensing, bioimaging, food packaging, and antimicrobial and antifouling membranes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)

24 pages, 978 KiB

Open AccessReview

Two-Dimensional Metal–Organic Framework Nanostructures and Their Composites in Chemical Warfare Agent Detoxification: A Review

by Cheng-an Tao, Shiyin Zhao, Yujiao Li and Jianfang Wang

Crystals 2025, 15(2), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15020182 - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

This review summarizes the application of two-dimensional metal–organic framework (2D MOF) nanostructures and their composites in the detoxification of chemical warfare agents (CWAs). Two-dimensional MOFs, characterized by their high specific surface area, abundant active sites, and structural tunability, exhibit promising catalytic performance in CWA detoxification. Various preparation methods, including top–down exfoliation and bottom–up assembly, are discussed for the synthesis of 2D MOF nanosheets. The catalytic performance of 2D MOFs and their composites in detoxifying CWAs is evaluated, highlighting their advantages in terms of reaction kinetics and ease of recycling. Additionally, the advances and challenges in this field are discussed, aiming to promote further research into and development of 2D MOF-based materials for CWA detoxification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Hybrid and Composite Crystalline Materials)

14 pages, 1020 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Interventions for Breast Cancer Prevention: Exploring the Role of Nutrition in Primary and Tertiary Prevention Strategies

by Martina Pontillo, Rossella Trio, Nicola Rocco, Ada Cinquerrui, Mariana Di Lorenzo, Giuseppe Catanuto, Francesca Magnoni, Fabrizia Calenda, Carlo Luigi Junior Castiello, Mafalda Ingenito, Alessia Luciana Margherita, Nunzio Velotti and Mario Musella

Healthcare 2025, 13(4), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13040407 - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer remains the most prevalent malignancy among women worldwide, necessitating effective prevention strategies. The current literature was scrutinized to investigate the impact of dietary factors, such as the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet on reducing the risk of breast cancer. Additionally, the potential role of diet in diminishing the risk of disease recurrence and enhancing outcomes among breast cancer survivors was explored. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE to identify relevant studies published between 2000 and 2024. Inclusion criteria were applied to select studies with robust methodologies, including randomized clinical trials, meta-analyses, and prospective cohort studies focusing on adult women. Only studies published in English were considered. Papers on animal studies, editorials, and case series were excluded. Results: Our findings show the critical interplay between diet and breast cancer prevention, crucial for the development of effective strategies to both primary and tertiary prevention. Challenges such as adherence to dietary recommendations, cultural and socioeconomic disparities, and limited high-quality evidence were identified. Conclusions: This review underscores the critical need to integrate nutrition into clinical practice and highlights avenues for future research, including personalized dietary interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breast Cancer Prevention in Healthcare: A Comprehensive Overview)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 647 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Hypo- and Hypernatremia in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants in the First 10 Days of Life: A Review

by Myrna Pace, Stijn van Sas, Thomas Salaets, Annouschka Laenen, Anke Raaijmakers and Karel Allegaert

Children 2025, 12(2), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12020231 - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Sodium regulation is critical in extremely low birth weight (ELBW, <1000 g) infants. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of sodium dynamics and related variables in ELBW infants in their first 10 days of life through a structured literature review. Methods: Applying PRISMA guidelines, six databases were searched (01/08/2023) on sodium measurements in ELBW cohorts, with quality assessment (RoB2, ROBINS-1, Newcastle Ottawa scale) of retained papers, and subsequent data extraction in line with these PRISMA guidelines to describe findings. Results: Only eight heterogeneous studies could be retained, including observational cohort studies (n = 5), case–control studies (n = 2, Tegaderm application yes/no, gestational age <24 or 24–28 weeks), and only one randomized trial (sodium restriction versus no sodium restriction). Definitions of hyper- or hyponatremia were also heterogeneous, with incidence ranges for hyper- (8–92.2%) and hyponatremia (0–52.9%). Peak sodium values were observed on days 2–4 in the individual studies. When pooled and compared to the cohort mean sodium values, the highest increases in mean serum sodium values were observed on day 3 (+4, range, −0.6 to +8.6 mEq). Variables of sodium values were related to care factors [incubator settings (open/closed, double-/not double-walled, humidity), fluid regimens (water volume, sodium supplementation), occlusive skin care], as well as related maturational factors (postnatal age, gestational age, small versus appropriate for gestational age, SGA/AGA). Conclusions: Based on a structured literature review, patterns of sodium changes over postnatal age in ELBW cases were documented. Besides incubator settings, fluid regimens, or occlusive skin care, these patterns also depend on maturational factors of the ELBW infant (gestational age, postnatal age, SGA/AGA). These complexities emphasize the need for nuanced interpretation, the relevance of standardizing clinical practices and research definitions, and the need to report on additional datasets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renal and Cardiovascular Consequences of Prematurity)

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 2000.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (207,652)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI