Age Predisposition Research Articles

CISTOTOMIA EM CADELA COM HIDRONEFROSE ASSOCIADA A OBSTRUÇÃO POR URÓLITOS VESICAIS: RELATO DE CASO

Urolithiasis is one of the most common diseases of the canine urinary system, which can be caused by diet, reduced water consumption by the animal, in addition to racial, age and sex predisposition. Furthermore, urolithiasis can culminate in hydronephrosis, in which the renal pelvis dilates as a result of the obstruction of urinary flow. The clinical signs of this condition vary according to the severity of the animal’s condition, but may include dysuria, polyuria and urinary incontinence. The definitive diagnosis is based on history, clinical evaluation, complementary imaging exams such as abdominal ultrasound and abdominal radiography. Treatment can be clinical or surgical and dietary management may be necessary, depending on the urinary stone analysis made. The objective of this report was to describe the clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of a five-year-old Shitzu female dog, with bladder uroliths and hydronephrosis as a result of this condition. After care and clinical management with laboratory and complementary exams, the treatment through cystotomy was the one of choice. The urolith was sent for analysis and allowed the establishment of an appropriate therapeutic protocol, through dietary management. Besides that, the female dog was monitored to observe the reversal of hydronephrosis. After surgical and clinical treatment, the animal presented a stable condition and the dilation of the renal pelvises were reversed, making the animal’s prognosis favorable.

Mitoregulin modulates inflammation in osteoarthritis: Insights from synovial transcriptomics and cellular studies

Osteoarthritis is a prevalent musculoskeletal disease that involves cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling, and synovial inflammation and ultimately causes physical disability. Common risk factors for osteoarthritis include age, sex, obesity, and genetic predispositions. Treatment includes nonpharmaceutical and pharmacological approaches; however, disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs remain undeveloped. We aimed to identify key regulatory factors underlying the etiology of osteoarthritis. We studied alterations of the inflammatory responses after manipulating the expression of MTLN, which we selected after sequencing and transcriptomics of the patients’ synovial tissues. MTLN expression was increased in synovial tissues of patients and in SW982 human synovial sarcoma cells following inflammatory stimuli. We found that MTLN overexpression or knockout respectively decreased or increased expression of the inflammation-associated genes, including IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. Thus, high levels of MTLN in osteoarthritis may protect tissues against excessive inflammation, thereby offering therapeutic potentials.

Utilizing patient data: A tutorial on predicting second cancer with machine learning models.

The article explores the potential risk of secondary cancer (SC) due to radiation therapy (RT) and highlights the necessity for new modeling techniques to mitigate this risk. By employing machine learning (ML) models, specifically decision trees, in the research process, a practical framework is established for forecasting the occurrence of SC using patient data. This framework aids in categorizing patients into high-risk or low-risk groups, thereby enabling personalized treatment plans and interventions. The paper also underscores the many factors that contribute to the likelihood of SC, such as radiation dosage, patient age, and genetic predisposition, while emphasizing the limitations of current models in encompassing all relevant parameters. These limitations arise from the non-linear dependencies between variables and the failure to consider factors such as genetics, hormones, lifestyle, radiation from secondary particles, and imaging dosage. To instruct and assess ML models for predicting the occurrence of SC based on patient data, the paper utilizes a dataset consisting of instances and attributes. The practical implications of this research lie in enhancing our understanding and prediction of SC following RT, facilitating personalized treatment approaches, and establishing a framework for leveraging patient data within the realm of ML models.

Evolving Patterns of Gallbladder Diseases in the Young Population: A Retrospective Study at Al Wahda Teaching Hospital, Derna, Libya

Background: Gallstone disease, traditionally associated with older, overweight females, is increasingly being observed in younger individuals. This shift necessitates a closer examination of the unique characteristics and risk factors associated with gallstone development in this demographic. While conventional risk factors such as gender, age, and genetic predispositions continue to play a role, emerging trends suggest that modifiable factors, including dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions, are also influential. Methods: In this observational study conducted at Al Wahda Teaching Hospital in Derna, Libya, between January 2021 and January 2022, we retrospectively collected data from 182 patients diagnosed with gallbladder disease. The study focused on recording demographic information and assessing modifiable risk factors, including dietary habits, reproductive history, smoking, and associated chronic illnesses. Results: The majority of patients were female (92.3%), with the most commonly affected age group being 26 - 30 years. The average weight of the population was also notably high. Assessment of modifiable risk factors revealed a high prevalence of a high-fat diet (75.8%) and a sedentary lifestyle (73.6%), while surprisingly, 69.2% maintained a high-fiber diet. A range of chronic illnesses contributed to a small proportion of cases, including hemolytic anemia (13.2%), diabetes mellitus (5.5%), and liver disease (4.4%). The predominance of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (54.9%) indicates a shift in treatment approach. Complications were absent in the majority of cases (81.3%), suggesting a generally favorable outcome in gallstone disease management within this cohort. Conclusions: The evolving nature of gallstone disease in younger populations calls for a reassessment of understanding and management strategies. The observed trends highlight the need for further research to better understand the changing landscape of gallstone disease and to develop targeted preventive measures for this demographic.

Hérnia diafragmática traumática em cão

The term diaphragmatic hernia refers to rupture of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities. The diaphragm plays an important role in ventilation, serving as an inspiratory muscle, in addition to helping transport lymphatic fluid. Most diaphragmatic hernias in dogs and cats are caused by trauma, particularly being run over by a car. They are frequently diagnosed in small animal clinics and there is no age or species predisposition for traumatic diaphragmatic hernias. Symptoms vary but include difficulty breathing, tachypnea, pale or cyanotic mucous membranes, tachycardia and oliguria. The definitive diagnosis is confirmed by the combination of a well performed anamnesis and imaging tests such as radiography and ultrasound. The recommended treatment is surgery, with diaphragm surgery, combines with follow-up and post-operative care to ensure a good recovery. This work reports the case of a female puppy, ran over by a vehicle. After imaging tests, she was diagnosed with a diaphragmatic hernia and subsequently underwent diaphragmatic herniorrhaphy, a diaphragm correction procedure. The surgical procedure and the patient's recovery went well, without complications.

MicroRNAs in abdominal aortic aneurysms

The abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), representing 70% to 90% of all aortic aneurysms, is characterized by a widening of the diameter due to an irreversible weakening of the vascular walls. Risk factors include advanced age, male sex, smoking, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and genetic predisposition. From a pathophysiological point of view, AAA involves alterations in connective tissue proteins, chronic inflammation with the release of cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases, as well as changes in the extracellular matrix. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the regulation of gene expression and different specific signaling pathways in vascular pathologies. Among which some miRNAs have been highlighted such as: miR-29 and miR-27b-3p, involved in the degradation of the extracellular matrix and inflammatory processes during the progression of AAA. Some diagnostic methods such as computed tomography play a fundamental role, while some innovative therapeutic strategies, such as the inhibition of miRNAs, represent a leading role as possible diagnostic and therapeutic targets. A comprehensive approach includes surveillance and surgical treatment strategies to mitigate the progression and risk of AAA rupture, thus highlighting the relevance of miRNAs in the diagnosis and treatment of this pathology.

Pink and Blue of Bones- A Histopathological Analysis of Bony Neoplasm in a Tertiary Hospital of Bihar

Background: Bone lesions have low incidence with diverse presentation and due to the presence of their limited studies it has become a challenging task to reach an accurate diagnosis. Aim and Objective: This study aims in studying variety of bony lesions observed clinically and histopathologically. Further categorizing into non neoplastic, tumour-like, benign tumour or malignant tumour and determining its correlation with the age and gender predisposition of these lesions. Materials and Methods: An ambispective study was executed in Pathology department , PMCH, Patna from May 2020 to April 2024 in which a total of 102 cases were collected. The necessary information for the retrospective analysis, such as the patient's age, sex, lesion location, and diagnosis, was obtained from the requisition form and the histopathology data kept in the department of pathology from May 2020 to May 2022. And for prospective study all the radiological proven bony lesions which were excised during period of May 2022 to April 2024 and were sent for histopathological examination were examined. Results: Non-neoplastic lesions were more common than neoplastic lesions among the 102 specimens that underwent histological examination (53 versus 49). With 21.5% of cases, tuberculous osteomyelitis was the most prevalent non-neoplastic lesion. The most common benign neoplastic lesion detected was a giant cell tumor of the bone (11.76%), while the most common malignant lesion found was osteosarcoma (2.94%). Conclusion: To improve patient management and diagnosis accuracy, it is advised to utilize clinical, radiological, and histological findings in an integrated manner.

NFS-26.RB1-ALTERED SUBTYPE (GROUP A) PINEOBLASTOMA AS A PART OF «TRILATERAL RETINOBLASTOMA» PHENOMENON: NEURO-ONCOLOGICAL AND OPHTHALMIC-ONCOLOGICAL VIEW

Abstract BACKGROUND RB1-altered subtype (Group A) pineoblastoma as a part of «Trilateral retinoblastoma» is an extremely rare phenomenon. But over the past 10 years, the incidence of this disease has been increasing. Optimal therapeutic strategy is unknown. The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of this phenomenon among patients with retinoblastoma, age at onset of retinoblastoma/RB1-altered pineoblastoma and genetic, gender, age predisposition. DESIGN/METHODS From 2019 to 2023 years 256 pediatric patients with de novo retinoblastoma were treated in the FSBI «N.N.Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology». RB1-altered pineoblastoma was revealed in 9 cases (3,5% of all patients, 9,5% among patients with bilateral retinoblastoma, 6,6% for patient with the onset of retinoblastoma under the age of 12 months). Diagnosis was determined according to familial history, retinal camera and MRI data, histology, immunohistochemistry and Illumina Infinium methylation EPIC Bead Chip method (FFPE tumor samples), NGS and MLPA methods for detection of RB1 germline mutation status (blood samples). Therapeutic options for patients with RB1-altered subtype pineoblastoma were presented as like–COGARET0321, like–HIT–MED2017/2020, selective intra-arterial chemotherapy, intravitreal chemotherapy, transpupillary thermotherapy, brachytherapy. RESULTS Gender ratio was 1:2 (3 male and 6 female). In all cases, intraocular retinoblastoma was bilateral. Family history was revealed in two cases. Age at onset of retinoblastoma: less than 6 months in 8 cases, all cases less 2 years, median 3±1,9 months [1,5-20,5]. Median age at onset of RB1-altered subtype pineoblastoma was 20,5±7,3 months [1,5-57,5]. A synchronous variant of the disease was identified in 5 cases, metachronous in 4. Pineoblastoma of pineal region was detected in 7 cases, suprasellar region in 2. Six out of 9 patients are alive, median follow-up 16,5±5,1 months [1,5-43,0]. CONCLUSION It is necessary to expand both regional and international interdisciplinary cooperation to develop an optimal algorithm for the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Pregnancy and Preterm Birth: A Systematic Review of Risk Factors and Prevention

Purpose: This systematic literature review aims to examine the multifaceted risk factors contributing to preterm birth and evaluate the effectiveness of various prevention strategies. By synthesizing existing research, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the biological, behavioral, and socio-economic determinants of preterm birth and identify gaps for future research.. Research Design and Methodology: A qualitative approach was utilized, involving a systematic search of electronic databases to gather relevant peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published between 2000 and 2024. The study employed thematic analysis to identify key themes related to preterm birth risk factors and prevention strategies, incorporating approximately 150 high-quality studies into the synthesis. Findings and Discussion: The review identified critical biological factors such as maternal age and genetic predispositions, with younger and older mothers facing increased risks due to complications like cervical insufficiency and chronic conditions. Inflammatory pathways, hormonal regulation, and uteroplacental blood flow emerged as significant mechanisms leading to preterm labor. Behavioral factors, including smoking and substance abuse, along with poor nutritional status, exacerbated the risk. The discussion highlights the necessity for integrative prevention strategies that address these diverse factors through medical, behavioral, and socio-economic interventions. Implications: The findings underscore the importance of personalized medical care, comprehensive public health strategies, and policy initiatives to reduce preterm birth rates. Future research should focus on integrative models of care and personalized prevention approaches, considering the complex interplay of risk factors identified.

Epigenetic Age Mediates the Association of Life's Essential 8 With Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality.

Life's Essential 8 (LE8) is an enhanced metric for cardiovascular health. The interrelations among LE8, biomarkers of aging, and disease risks are unclear. LE8 score was calculated for 5682 Framingham Heart Study participants. We implemented 4 DNA methylation-based epigenetic age biomarkers, with older epigenetic age hypothesized to represent faster biological aging, and examined whether these biomarkers mediated the associations between the LE8 score and cardiovascular disease (CVD), CVD-specific mortality, and all-cause mortality. We found that a 1 SD increase in the LE8 score was associated with a 35% (95% CI, 27-41; P=1.8E-15) lower risk of incident CVD, a 36% (95% CI, 24-47; P=7E-7) lower risk of CVD-specific mortality, and a 29% (95% CI, 22-35; P=7E-15) lower risk of all-cause mortality. These associations were partly mediated by epigenetic age biomarkers, particularly the GrimAge and the DunedinPACE scores. The potential mediation effects by epigenetic age biomarkers tended to be more profound in participants with higher genetic risk for older epigenetic age, compared with those with lower genetic risk. For example, in participants with higher GrimAge polygenic scores (greater than median), the mean proportion of mediation was 39%, 39%, and 78% for the association of the LE8 score with incident CVD, CVD-specific mortality, and all-cause mortality, respectively. No significant mediation was observed in participants with lower GrimAge polygenic score. DNA methylation-based epigenetic age scores mediate the associations between the LE8 score and incident CVD, CVD-specific mortality, and all-cause mortality, particularly in individuals with higher genetic predisposition for older epigenetic age.

Physical Frailty, Genetic Predisposition, and Incident Heart Failure

BackgroundThere is growing interest in the intersection of frailty and heart failure (HF); however, large-sample longitudinal studies in the general population are lacking. ObjectivesThe goal of this study was to examine the longitudinal relationship between frailty and incident HF, and whether age and genetic predisposition could modify this association. MethodsThis prospective cohort study included 340,541 participants (45.7% male; mean age 55.9 ± 8.1 years) free of HF at baseline in the UK Biobank. Frailty was assessed by using the Fried frailty phenotype and included weight loss, exhaustion, low physical activity, slow gait speed, and low grip strength. The weighted polygenetic risk score was calculated. Cox models were used to estimate these associations and the interaction between the 2 factors. ResultsDuring a median 14.1 years of follow-up, 7,590 patients with HF were documented. Compared with nonfrail participants, both prefrail and frail participants had a positive association with the risk of incident HF (prefrail HR: 1.40 [95% CI: 1.17-1.67]; frail HR: 2.07 [95% CI: 1.67-2.57]). Exhaustion (HR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.03-1.43), slow gait speed (HR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.39-1.90), and low grip strength (HR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.14-1.51) were associated with a greater risk of incident HF. Furthermore, genetic susceptibility did not significantly modify the associations (Pinteraction = 0.094), and the association was significantly strengthened in younger participants (Pinteraction = 0.008). ConclusionsFrailty status was associated with a higher risk of incident HF independent of genetic risk. A younger population may be more susceptible to HF when exposed to frailty. Whether the modification of frailty status represents another avenue for preventing HF warrants further investigation.

Modifiable and Non-Modifiable Factors Associated with Gastric Cancer

Numerous studies have investigated the associations between dietary components, behavioral patterns, and susceptibility to gastric cancer (GC). Diet and lifestyle cover a spectrum of both protective and harmful factors associated with GC. Additionally, non-modifiable factors such as age, gender, blood type, family history, and genetic predispositions may influence GC development. This review aims to explore the interplay between modifiable and non-modifiable factors, along with dietary habits and lifestyle practices, in relation to GC risk and the potential underlying mechanisms. We have synthesized the primary findings of observational studies (case-control and cohort), systematic reviews, and meta-analyses pertaining to preventive and deleterious factors affecting the incidence of gastric cancer. A literature search was conducted on Google Scholar, MEDLINE (PubMed), ScienceDirect, and Scopus for articles published in English from 2001 to 2024. The main search terms included body weight and body fat; diet; fruits and vegetables; meats and processed meats; fried and fast foods; milk and dairy products; salty foods; food and dietary patterns; fat and sweets intake; alcohol consumption; smoking; physical activity; age; sex; family history; blood type; genetics; and medication, and the risk of gastric cancer. Unhealthy dietary patterns, consumption of fried and fast foods, salty foods, alcohol, and smoking have been associated with an increased risk of GC. Non-modifiable factors such as advanced age, male sex, family history, genetics, and blood type A were linked to an elevated risk of GC. Conversely, physical activity and high consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables may prevent GC occurrence due to the presence of antioxidants, fiber, and polyphenols. While many studies have demonstrated that dietary patterns loaded with red and processed meats were associated with a high risk of GC, others have yielded inconclusive results. Controversial findings regarding the relationship between body weight and body fat, medications, milk and dairy products, and fat and sweets consumption with the risk of GC were also observed. Adequate diet modification and addressing preventable factors may play a pivotal role in reducing the incidence of gastric cancer.

Ponies, miniatures, and younger equids are at higher risk of fecalith obstruction compared to a general colic population.

To determine breed, age, and sex predispositions for fecalith obstruction and to evaluate short-term survival and prognostic factors following surgical treatment of fecalith intestinal obstruction in equids. 151 equids. Medical records of equids undergoing surgery for fecalith obstruction from 2000 to 2020 were reviewed. Signalment, history, presenting clinicopathological data, surgical findings, complications, and short-term survival were recorded and compared between survivors and nonsurvivors. Signalment of the fecalith population was compared to a contemporaneous colic population. Clinical factors were assessed for association with outcome. 64 females, 53 castrated males, and 31 intact males were included. Three equids presented twice. Miniature horses, ponies, and miniature donkeys/mules represented 48% (71/148) of fecalith population and full-sized breeds represented 52% (77/148). Miniature horses and ponies were overrepresented and equids ≤ 1 year of age were overrepresented in the fecalith population compared to the colic population. One hundred thirty-nine equids (92%) survived to discharge, 6% (9/148) were euthanized intraoperatively, and 2% (3/148) were euthanized during hospitalization. Nonsurvivors showed more severe colic signs on admission, tachycardia on admission, and hyperlipemia. Equids with postoperative colic (P = .01) and complications (P = .002) were less likely to survive. Miniature horses and ponies were overrepresented compared to the colic population; however, full-sized breeds were also affected. Surgical treatment had an excellent short-term prognosis. Severe colic signs, tachycardia, hyperlipemia, postoperative colic, and surgical complications negatively affected short-term survival.

Association between combined exposure to ambient air pollutants, genetic risk, and incident gout risk: A prospective cohort study in the UK Biobank

BackgroundLimited research has been conducted on the association between long-term exposure to air pollutants and the incidence of gout. ObjectivesThis study aims to assess the individual and combined effects of prolonged exposure to five air pollutants (NO2, NOx, PM10, PMcoarse and PM2.522NO2, nitrogen dioxide; NOx, nitrogen oxides; PM10, particulate matter with diameters ≤ 10 µm; PMcoarse, particulate matter with diameters between 2.5 and 10 µm;PM2.5, particulate matter with diameters ≤ 2.5 µm.) on the incidence of gout among 458,884 initially gout-free participants enrolled in the UK Biobank. MethodsEmploying a land use regression model, we utilized an estimation method to ascertain the annual concentrations of the five air pollutants. Subsequently, we devised a weighted air pollution score to facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of exposure. The Cox proportional hazards model was utilized to investigate the association between ambient air pollution and gout risk. Interaction and stratification analyses were conducted to evaluate age, sex, BMI, and genetic predisposition as potential effect modifiers in the air pollution-gout relationship. Furthermore, mediation analyses were conducted to explore the potential involvement of biomarkers in mediating the association between air pollution and gout. ResultsOver a median follow-up time of 12.0 years, 7,927 cases of gout were diagnosed. Significant associations were observed between the risk of gout and a per IQR increase in NO2 (HR33HR, hazard ratio.: 1.05, 95 % CI44CI, confidence interval.: 1.02–1.08, p = 0.003), NOx (HR: 1.04, 95 % CI: 1.01–1.06, p = 0.003), and PM2.5 (HR: 1.03, 95 % CI: 1.00–1.06, p = 0.030). Per IQR increase in the air pollution score was associated with an elevated risk of gout (p = 0.005). Stratified analysis revealed a significant correlation between the air pollution score and gout risk in participants ≥60 years (HR: 1.05, 95 % CI: 1.02–1.09, p = 0.005), but not in those <60 years (p = 0.793), indicating a significant interaction effect with age (p-interaction=0.009). Mediation analyses identified five serum biomarkers (SUA:15.87 %, VITD: 5.04 %, LDLD: 3.34 %, GGT: 1.90 %, AST: 1.56 %55UA, urate; HDL, high-density lipoprotein; VITD, vitamin D; LDLD, low density lipoprotein direct; GGT, gamma glutamyltransferase; AST, aspartate aminotransferase.) with potential mediation effects on this association. ConclusionsLong-term exposure to air pollutants, particularly among the elderly population, is associated with an increased risk of gout. The underlying mechanisms of these associations may involve the participation of five serum biomarkers.

Extracellular Vesicles and Artificial Intelligence: Unique Weapons against Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) caused 685,000 deaths globally in 2020, earning the title of the most common type of tumor among females. With a multifactorial genesis, BC is influenced by several factors such as age, genetic and epigenetic predisposition, and an individual’s exposome, and its classification is based on morphological/histological, invasiveness, and molecular futures. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived lipid-bilayer-delimited nanoparticles, which are distinguishable by size, genesis, and the markers expressed in exosomes (40 to 150 nm), microvesicles (40 to 10,000 nm), and apoptotic bodies (100–5000 nm). Produced in physiological and pathological cellular contexts, EVs are shuttles of biological material and are implicated in cell-to-cell communications, thus attracting significant interest in diagnostic and drug delivery research. We report and discuss the latest evidence regarding the important role of EVs in BC, deepening their implication in tumorigenesis and metastatic mechanisms. On the other hand, the use of BC-derived EVs as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic approaches is undergoing investigation. Hence, EVs have become new weapons in precision medicine; however, only with the support of advanced algorithms such as artificial intelligence (AI) can we develop a wide range of information. Looking ahead, it is possible to see the application of AI in the prognosis and diagnosis of different pathologies.

Fractional CO2 laser Combined with TCA for the Treatment of Keloid Scars

Scarring is a complex phenomenon , Following an injury to the skin, whether voluntary or post-surgical, the healing process begins. This is a long physiological process designed to restore the integrity of the skin covering [1]. In certain circumstances, ad integrum restitution cannot be achieved, leading to pathological scarring. Risk factors can be local, depending on the topography of the lesion, or general, depending on age or genetic predisposition. We distinguish two types of pathological scars: hypertrophic and keloid [2]. Indeed, it has been confirmed that the latter are the cause of serious psychological problems, as they are not only aesthetically embarrassing, but also lead to an alteration in patients' quality of life and self-esteem [3]. The therapeutic arsenal is broad, and includes corticosteroids in intra-lesional and topical injections, pressotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, cryotherapy, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and lasers [4]

Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Biomarkers of Post-Traumatic Epilepsy: A Comprehensive Overview.

This paper presents an in-depth exploration of Post-Traumatic Epilepsy (PTE), a complex neurological disorder following traumatic brain injury (TBI), characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. With TBI being a global health concern, understanding PTE is crucial for effective diagnosis, management, and prognosis. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, risk factors, and emerging biomarkers of PTE, thereby informing clinical practice and guiding future research. The epidemiological aspect of the study reveals PTE as a significant contributor to acquired epilepsies, with varying incidence influenced by injury severity, age, and intracranial pathologies. The paper delves into the multifactorial nature of PTE risk factors, encompassing clinical, demographic, and genetic elements. Key insights include the association of injury severity, intracranial hemorrhages, and early seizures with increased PTE risk, and the roles of age, gender, and genetic predispositions. Advancements in neuroimaging, electroencephalography, and molecular biology are presented, highlighting their roles in identifying potential PTE biomarkers. These biomarkers, ranging from radiological signs to electroencephalography EEG patterns and molecular indicators, hold promise for enhancing PTE pathogenesis understanding, early diagnosis, and therapeutic guidance. The paper also discusses the critical roles of astrocytes and microglia in PTE, emphasizing the significance of neuroinflammation in PTE development. The insights from this review suggest potential therapeutic targets in neuroinflammation pathways. In conclusion, this paper synthesizes current knowledge in the field, emphasizing the need for continued research and a multidisciplinary approach to effectively manage PTE. Future research directions include longitudinal studies for a better understanding of TBI and PTE outcomes, and the development of targeted interventions based on individualized risk profiles. This research contributes significantly to the broader understanding of epilepsy and TBI.

The complex interplay of modifiable risk factors affecting prostate cancer disparities in African American men.

Prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed non-skin malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the USA. However, the mortality rate of African American men aged 40-60 years is almost 2.5-fold greater than that of European American men. Despite screening and diagnostic and therapeutic advances, disparities in prostate cancer incidence and outcomes remain prevalent. The reasons that lead to this disparity in outcomes are complex and multifactorial. Established non-modifiable risk factors such as age and genetic predisposition contribute to this disparity; however, evidence suggests that modifiable risk factors (including social determinants of health, diet, steroid hormones, environment and lack of diversity in enrolment in clinical trials) are prominent contributing factors to the racial disparities observed. Disparities involved in the diagnosis, treatment and survival of African American men with prostate cancer have also been correlated with low socioeconomic status, education and lack of access to health care. The effects and complex interactions of prostate cancer modifiable risk factors are important considerations for mitigating the incidence and outcomes of this disease in African American men.

Sterile granulomatous panuveitis in dogs in the United Kingdom: A review of 33 cases.

To describe the clinical and histopathological features of a sterile granulomatous panuveitis syndrome in 33 dogs that underwent enucleation and ocular histopathology. Retrospective review of the medical records and ocular histopathology reports of 33 cases. Inclusion criteria were enucleation in conjunction with characteristic clinical and histopathological features. Thirteen breeds were represented (including crossbreeds). Panuveitis was acute and fulminating, and secondary glaucoma was common (n = 27). Interval from initial presentation to enucleation was 99 days (median 33 days, range 5-605 days). The mean age at enucleation was 6.7 years. Ocular signs were initially unilateral (n = 18) or bilateral (n = 15). The disease became bilateral in 18/25 cases that initially underwent unilateral enucleation, resulting in enucleation or euthanasia in 9/18 (mean interval of 168 days). Seven out of 59 eyes had a good outcome following topical anti-inflammatory and systemic immunosuppressive therapy. None of the dogs had travel history nor relevant systemic signs from presentation to follow-up (mean 619 days, range 16-3012 days). Histopathology revealed histiocytic and lymphoplasmacytic panuveitis with pigment dispersion, and no infectious agents were identified on light microscopy. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a sterile granulomatous panuveitis syndrome in dogs in the UK. The clinical signs are severe, with rapid progression, and can result in bilateral enucleation or euthanasia in affected dogs. There does not appear to be an age or breed predisposition, however further research is necessary in this regard. Early and aggressive intervention, with both topical and systemic immunosuppressive therapy, is recommended to reduce the risk of blindness, enucleation, and euthanasia.

Genetic insights into bladder cancer: the impact of SIRT1 gene polymorphism

Bladder cancer (BC) has shown a significant global health concern with distinct pathological, genetic, and epigenetic characteristics. Its prevalence is influenced by various risk factors, including age, gender, and genetic predisposition. This study investigates the association between BC and the Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) gene polymorphism rs369274325 in the Turkish population. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood samples and genotyping of rs369274325 polymorphism in SIRT 1 was investigated in 200 individuals (in 100 Turkish bladder cancer patients and 100 healthy individuals as the control group.) by real-time PCR. Demographic information, smoking and alcohol consumption status was analyzed by statistical analysis. Statistical analysis was performed by Pearson’s Chi-square test. Smoking and alcohol consumption were significantly higher in BC patients compared to controls (p < 0.00018 and p < 0.0001, respectively). The genotypic distribution of SIRT1 rs369274325 did not show a significant difference between BC patients and controls (p = 0.5550). BC, influenced by genetic and environmental factors, has been linked to various gene mutations. SIRT1, involved in diverse physiological processes, is proposed to play a role in BC. However, our study did not find a significant association between SIRT1 rs369274325 polymorphism and BC in the Turkish population.