Medicine Approach Research Articles

Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Cancerous Properties of Pyrus pashia (Buch. -Ham.Ex D.Don) Against KB-3-1 Cancer Cell Lines In Vitro

Background: Oral cancer is the fastest-growing cancer in men. Many medicinal approaches are tried step-wise for cancers. Homeopathy and Ayurveda are contributing much to cure cancers without side effects. Plants having antioxidant properties are now being utilized with different solvents to extract different chemical compounds to cure cancer. Objective: The current study aimed to examine the anti-cancer and antioxidant properties of acetone extract of Pyrus pashia (PP-AE) fruit against KB-3-1 cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: The extract's total phenolic content was determined using a folin-ciocalteu reagent. The DPPH, ABTS, and H2O2 assay were used to measure the free radical scavenging activity of the PP-AE. The MTT assay was used to evaluate the cytotoxic efficacy of the PP-AE against KB-3-1 cancer cell lines at various concentrations. Results: Based on the observations, the total phenolic content was present in the PP-AE of fruit and all free radical scavenging assays have shown remarkable IC50 values. Conclusion: According to the current study, acetone extract of Pyrus pashia fruit significantly possesses antioxidant and anti-cancer properties against oral (KB-3-1) cancer cell lines. This effect may be used in the future to analyze particular chemical compounds in extract, capable of minimizing the growth of oral cancer cells.

Lamiales epidermal dynamics: Unveiling antimicrobial resilience in a structural symphony.

This research on Lamiales epidermal anatomy not only provides in-depth understanding of their structural traits but also highlights the significance of uncovering the inherent antimicrobial resilience embedded within these plants. Such insights hold promise for advancing natural product-based approaches in medicine, potentially contributing to the development of novel antimicrobial agents inspired by Lamiales unique biological defense mechanisms. Scanning microscopic tools were utilized to conduct foliar epidermal anatomy of nine species that belong to seven genera and four families within the Lamiales order, Plantaginaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Verbenaceae, and Lamiaceae. This approach aimed to gather both qualitative and quantitative data, facilitating the assessment of taxonomic microanatomical significance. The shape of epidermal cells and their anticlinal walls; number of epidermal cells, stomata, and trichomes; type of stomata and trichomes; length and width of epidermal cells, trichomes, stomatal pore, guard cells, and subsidiary cells; and stomatal index were determined statistically. Most of the species examined were amphistomatous and showed extensive array of trichomes diversity. The exploration of Lamiales epidermal micromorphology and their antimicrobial potential were significant for their implications in multidisciplinary fields. The pharmacological research to utilize sustainable agricultural practices prompts avenues to strengths of Lamiales order for the development of novel antimicrobial solutions and ecological benefits. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Diverse trichome morphometry reveals a wide array of trichome structures across Lamiales species. Epidermal microscopic architecture variability of epidermal cell shapes and sizes signifies the interspecies variability. Secondary metabolite localization within microanatomical structures elucidates potential hotspots for antimicrobial compound production.

Применение компьютерного зрения для определения реперных точек при оценке геометрии лица

The use of computer vision to determine the geometry of a face using reference points is a relatively new approach in medicine. The relevance of this study is due not only to the need to develop new methods and approaches in determining the geometry of the face, but also to the growing interest in the development and application of artificial intelligence in medicine. The research objective. The purpose of this article is to develop mathematical and neural network algorithms that determine the geometry of a face using reference points. Material and methods. To train the neural network, a small sample of 1,000 marked-up photos in the public domain was used, which depict a full-face portrait of a man up to his shoulders. Only adult (18+) representatives of the Caucasian race were considered. The photos were marked up using the LabelImg 1.8.6 graphical image analysis tool, in which the areas of finding (classes of definition) of reference points were manually marked in the graphical interface mode. YOLO 8 was chosen as the neural network architecture. Results. It was shown that the accuracy of the point search by a neural network trained on 1000 grouped photographs reaches 98.15 %, which indicates a good definition of the boundaries of objects and their classification. Conclusion. The conducted research demonstrated the successful development and application of neural network algorithms to determine alternative reference points characterizing the geometry of the face. The results obtained confirm the effectiveness of the technique proposed by the authors in cosmetology, and also indicate its potential for use in other fields of medicine, such as dentistry, neurology and surgery.

Sex-specific epigenetic signatures of circulating urate and its increase after BCG vaccination.

Urate concentration and the physiological regulation of urate homeostasis exhibit clear sex differences. DNA methylation has been shown to explain a substantial proportion of serum urate variance, mediate the genetic effect on urate concentration, and co-regulate with cardiometabolic traits. However, whether urate concentration is associated with DNA methylation in a sex-dependent manner is unknown. Additionally, it is worth investigating if urate changes after perturbations, such as vaccination, are associated with DNA methylation in a sex-specific manner. We investigated the association between DNA methylation and serum urate concentrations in a Dutch cohort of 325 healthy individuals. Urate concentration and DNA methylation were measured before and after Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination, used as a perturbation associated with increased gout flares. The association analysis included united, interaction, and sex-stratified analysis. Validation of the identified CpG sites was conducted using three independent cohorts. 215 CpG sites were associated with serum urate in males, while 5 CpG sites were associated with serum urate in females, indicating sex-specific associations. Circulating urate concentrations significantly increased after BCG vaccination, and baseline DNA methylation was associated with differences in urate concentration before and after vaccination in a sex-specific manner. The CpG sites associated with urate concentration in males were enriched in neuro-protection pathways, whereas in females, the urate change-associated CpG sites were related to lipid and glucose metabolism. Our study enhances the understanding of how epigenetic factors contribute to regulating serum urate levels in a sex-specific manner. These insights have significant implications for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of various urate-related diseases and highlight the importance of personalized and sex-specific approaches in medicine.

Combating Aminoglycoside Resistance: From Structural and Functional Characterisation to Therapeutic Challenges with RKAAT.

A comprehensive knowledge of aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes (AMEs) and their role in bacterial resistance mechanisms is urgently required due to the rising incidence of antibiotic resistance, particularly in Klebsiella pneumoniae infections. This study explores the essential features of AMEs, including their structural and functional properties, the processes by which they contribute to antibiotic resistance, and the therapeutic importance of aminoglycosides. The study primarily examines the Recombinant Klebsiella pneumoniae Aminoglycoside Adenylyl Transferase (RKAAT), particularly emphasizing its biophysical characteristics and the sorts of resistance it imparts. Furthermore, this study examines the challenges presented by RKAAT-mediated resistance, an evaluation of treatment methods and constraints, and options for controlling infection. The analysis provides a prospective outlook on strategies to address and reduce antibiotic resistance. This extensive investigation seeks to provide vital insights into the continuing fight against bacterial resistance, directing future research efforts and medicinal approaches.

Challenges and Benefits of a Multidisciplinary Approach to Treatment in Clinical Medicine

Introduction: The multidisciplinary approach in healthcare unites professionals from different fields to deliver patient-centered care. This collaborative team, comprising care partners, hospitalists, nurses, pharmacists, and others, operates with shared goals, leveraging electronic records, regular assessments, and patient involvement. Objective: In this review, we aim to investigate the challenges and benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment in clinical medicine. Methodology: In our study, we included English studies from online databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library using the following keywords “delusions”, “pharmacotherapy”, “psychotherapy”, and “antipsychotics” till January 2024. Results: The result of the search using our search strategy was 2367 articles. We screened these articles to choose the articles related to our topic. We did a full-text screening of 344 articles after excluding the remaining articles by title and abstract screening. Finally, we used 50 articles to gather information about our topic and write this review. Scientific Novelty: Lies in its integration of diverse expertise, methodologies, and perspectives to address complex healthcare challenges. Practical Significance of the Results Obtained: Its practical significance lies in improving patient outcomes, optimizing resource utilization, and fostering innovation through collaborative problem-solving and evidence-based practices. Conclusion: This literature review focused on the multidisciplinary approach in medicine to ensure quality healthcare for patients. Stressing the advantages such as decreasing negative patient outcomes and increasing treatment strategies by collaboration among health care professionals.

Surgical treatment compared with “wait and see” in patients affected by oral leukoplakia to prevent oral cancer: Preliminary data from a multicenter randomized controlled trial

AbstractObjectiveOral leukoplakia (OL) is one of the most common and investigated oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD). Preventing OSCC occurrence should be the primary outcome in the clinical management of OL. Surgical removal of OL is performed by most clinicians, although its effectiveness in reducing OSCC onset has still not been established by randomized controlled trials (RCT). Wait and see approach is characterized by frequent clinical examinations and periodical biopsies of OL, avoiding unnecessary surgical procedures.This is the first multicenter RCT in literature aiming at comparing the effectiveness of surgical removal and the “wait and see” approach in preventing OSCC onset in patients affected by dysplastic and non‐dysplastic OL.MethodsTwo Italian referral care centres for oral diseases were involved in this multicenter two‐arm RCT comparing the surgical removal of OL (group A) and the “wait and see” approach (group B), with the aim of reducing oral cancer onset.ResultsThis report shows preliminary data on the first 161 patients, with a mean follow‐up of 19.14 ± 11.25 months. Eight cases of OSCC occurred (6 out 8 involving the tongue): one case in group A and seven cases in group B. Moreover, OL recurred in 13 (20%) cases after surgical excision.ConclusionsWithin the limitations of this preliminary report, these initial data underline the increased risk of OSCC onset in the case of OL of the tongue in the presence of epithelial dysplasia in group B (“wait and see”) compared to group A (surgery). This RCT is currently ongoing at the same clinical departments, with the aim of enrolling 310 patients and collecting data at 5‐year follow‐up, in order to achieve conclusive results, in an evidence‐based medicine approach.

International consensus on sleep problems in pediatric palliative care: Paving the way

ObjectiveSleep problems constitute a common and heterogeneous complaint in pediatric palliative care (PPC), where they often contribute to disease morbidity and cause additional distress to children and adolescents and their families already facing the burden of life-threatening and life-limiting conditions. Despite the significant impact of sleep problems, clinical evidence is lacking. The application of general pediatric sleep recommendations appears insufficient to address the unique challenges of the PPC dimension in terms of disease variability, duration, comorbidities, complexity of needs, and particular features of sleep problems related to hospice care.Therefore, we initiated an international project aimed at establishing a multidisciplinary consensus. MethodsA two-round Delphi approach was adopted to develop recommendations in the areas of Definition, Assessment/Monitoring, and Treatment. After selecting a panel of 72 worldwide experts, consensus (defined as ≥75% agreement) was reached through an online survey. ResultsAt the end of the two voting sessions, we obtained 53 consensus recommendations based on expert opinion on sleep problems in PPC. ConclusionsThis study addresses the need to personalize sleep medicine's approach to the palliative care setting and its peculiarities. It provides the first international consensus on sleep problems in PPC and highlight the urgent need for global guidance to improve sleep-related distress in this vulnerable population and their caregivers. Our findings represent a crucial milestone that will hopefully enable the development of guidelines in the near future.

COMPARATION OF KINESITHERAPY AND POWERPLATE IN PATIENTS WITH CERVICOARTHROSIS

Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease of the musculoskeletal system, in which degeneration of the affected tissues is observed. Modern living conditions and immobility create favorable conditions for the spread of the disease. The cervical region of the spine is subjected to significant dynamic and static loads, which often leads to pain and limited mobility. Diagnosing cervical arthrosis at an early stage opens up opportunities for effective and timely complex treatment. Such treatment includes not only medicinal approaches, but also various physical therapies, balneotherapy, as well as massage and kinesitherapy. Improving and maintaining the functional status of patients with cervical arthrosis is essential for their quality of life. This disease is characterized by destruction of articular cartilage, in which the formation of new tissue at the edges of bones and tendons is observed. It has a progressive course and affects a significant part of the population. These changes are part of the aging process of the body and the musculoskeletal system. The patented technology of Power Plate is designed to trigger the body’s innate reflexive reaction to precise vibrations, stimulating muscles in a consistent and regulated fashion, thereby expediting the benefits of training. Power Plate’s efficacy has been substantiated through numerous medical and scientific investigations, alongside practical application in clinical recovery and wellness establishments, sports enhancement hubs, and widespread adoption by a multitude of professional and collegiate sports organizations in the United States, as well as numerous others globally. Vibration is defined as an oscillatory motion involving mechanical forces. Its intensity is influenced by biomechanical parameters such as amplitude, frequency, and the scale of the oscillations. Specifically, amplitude refers to the peak-to-peak displacement measured in millimeters, frequency relates to the rate at which oscillation cycles repeat and is measured in Hertz (Hz), and acceleration reflects the scale of the vibrations. This study aims to compare the efficacy of two therapeutic interventions, kinesitherapy (analytical exercises) and power plate, in enhancing muscle strength and improving cervical range of motion. Eighteen patients were divided into experimental (n=10) and control (n=8) groups. The control group received physical medicine and kinesitherapy, while the experimental group underwent physical medicine and power plate therapy, both for 21 days. Clinical assessments were conducted pre- and post-therapy. Results indicated symptom improvement in both groups, with better outcomes observed in the control group. Furthermore, the control group exhibited more significant improvements in range of motion compared to the experimental group. Kinesitherapy demonstrated greater efficacy than power plate therapy, likely due to its targeted muscle exercises and isotonic/ isometric contraction combination, as opposed to the rapid and numerous contractions induced by the power plate. These findings highlight the importance of tailored therapeutic approaches in enhancing muscle strength and cervical spine mobility.

A systematic review of the perspectives of botulinum toxin use on the quality of life of neurological patients with drooling.

To investigate the effectiveness of botulinum toxin in the salivary glands of patients with neurological impairment and drooling and its impact on the quality of life. This systematic review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD 42,023,435,242) and conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses. An electronic search was performed in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and clinical trial databases until August 2023, no language restriction. Cohort studies and randomized clinical trials of patients diagnosed with drooling and neurological impairment who used botulinum toxin on the salivary gland were included, which evaluated subjective quality of life parameters. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist and Risk of Bias 2 tools. The certainty of the evidence was analyzed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Eight studies involving 317 patients were included. All studies, through subjective parameters, suggested the effectiveness of botulinum toxin in reducing drooling, resulting in an improvement in the quality of life. Three studies demonstrated improvements in swallowing and four in cases of respiratory diseases. Two clinical trials had a high risk of bias, whereas one had low risk. The five cohort studies that were evaluated had a high risk of bias. The certainty of the evidence was considered low. Based on the patient/caregivers' perception of improvement in drooling, dysphagia, and respiratory symptoms, it can be inferred that botulinum toxin application reduces subjective drooling in neurologically compromised patients. Its impact contributes to the general well-being and quality of life. Injection of botulinum toxin into the salivary glands can be considered an alternative technique to surgical or medicinal approaches in reducing drooling. It is effective, less invasive and without significant side effects. It promotes a positive impact on the well-being and quality of life of neurological patients.

Transforming Healthcare with AI: Promises, Pitfalls, and Pathways Forward.

This perspective paper provides a comprehensive examination of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, focusing on its transformative impact on clinical practices, decision-making, and physician-patient relationships. By integrating insights from evidence, research, and real-world examples, it offers a balanced analysis of AI's capabilities and limitations, emphasizing its role in streamlining administrative processes, enhancing patient care, and reducing physician burnout while maintaining a human-centric approach in medicine. The research underscores AI's capacity to augment clinical decision-making and improve patient interactions, but it also highlights the variable impact of AI in different healthcare settings. The need for context-specific adaptations and careful integration of AI technologies into existing healthcare workflows is emphasized to maximize benefits and minimize unintended consequences. Significant attention is given to the implications of AI on the roles and competencies of healthcare professionals. The emergence of AI necessitates new skills in data literacy and technology use, prompting a shift in educational curricula towards digital health and AI training. Ethical considerations are a pivotal aspect of the discussion. The paper explores the challenges posed by data privacy concerns, algorithmic biases, and ensuring equitable access to AI-driven healthcare. It advocates for the development of comprehensive ethical frameworks and ongoing research to guide the responsible use of AI in healthcare. Conclusively, the paper advocates for a balanced approach to AI adoption in healthcare, highlighting the importance of ongoing research, strategic implementation, and the synergistic combination of human expertise with AI technologies for optimal patient care.

The Challenges and Future of Advanced Therapies

Advanced therapies, including gene therapies, cell-based therapies, and tissue engineering, have emerged as revolutionary approaches in medicine. These therapies hold immense promise for treating previously un treatable diseases by targeting underlying causes at the molecular and cellular levels. However, their translation from laboratory breakthroughs to clinical applications is accompanied by significant challenges that must be addressed to realize their full potential. One major challenge lies in the complexity and variability of patient responses. The personalized nature of advanced therapies demands precise customization of each individual, necessitating the development of robust biomarkers and predictive models. Ensuring the safety of these therapies is paramount. Unforeseen immune reactions, off-target effects, and long-term consequences require stringent preclinical testing and vigilant post-market surveillance. Manufacturing scalability is another hurdle. Unlike traditional pharmaceuticals, advanced therapies often involve intricate processes specific to each patient. Standardizing and automating these processes, while maintaining product quality and consistency, are critical obstacles. Moreover, the high costs associated with research, development, manufacturing, and delivery hinder accessibility and affordability, raising concerns about equitable patient access. The regulatory landscape also requires adaptation to accommodate the unique attributes of advanced therapies. Striking a balance between timely access to patients and comprehensive evaluation of safety and efficacy challenges regulatory agencies globally. Intellectual property concerns, data sharing, and ethical considerations compounded these issues

RELATIONSHIP OF QUANTITATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE KIDNEYS WITH ANTHROPOMETRIC AND SOMATOTYPOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF ADOLESCENT GIRLS IN THE DONETSK REGION

The article presents updated data reflecting the quantitative characteristics of the kidneys in representatives of various somatotypes among adolescent girls in the Donetsk region. Given the high level of morbidity of the urinary system, regular review of echographic patterns of kidney normality is necessary. Determining the features of kidney size depending on the somatotype is an important task of morphology, corresponding to the modern trends of an individual approach in medicine. The information obtained is undoubtedly of value for ultrasound specialists, nephrologists, as well as scientists in theoretical medicine. Materials and Methods: The object of the study was 150 polypositional ultrasound scans of the right and left kidneys of apparently healthy adolescent girls in the Donetsk region (75 subjects). The scans were obtained during a study in B-mode of the gray scale in standard positions (on the back and on the side) using the Radmir device, with a convex sensor. Anthropometric measurements were carried out according to the generally accepted V.V. Bunak’s method. Somatotyping was performed according to the Sheldon's method as modified by Heath and Carter. Calculations were carried out in the Statistica 13 program. Results: the subjects were divided into three groups, according to their specific somatotype. Morphometric ultrasound parameters of the right and left kidneys were obtained. During the statistical analysis, we established distinctive features of the morphometric parameters of the kidneys depending on the somatotypological affiliation of adolescent girls of the Donetsk region. Conclusion: statistically significant differences were found in the quantitative characteristics of the right and left kidneys in representatives of different somatotypes.

Efficacy and Safety of Phoenix dactylifera L. Leaf Extract (WartOver®) in the Treatment of Cutaneous Warts: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background. Cutaneous warts are caused by the human papillomavirus that can affect a patient’s quality of life. Current treatments have high cost, low efficacy, adverse effects, and recurrence. Therefore, novel therapeutic approaches are needed. Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs) are gaining popularity as a therapeutic approach. Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) is used in folk medicine to treat warts. Antiviral effects of P. dactylifera L. have been demonstrated due to its polyphenolic compounds, especially gallic acid and tannins in various studies. So, this trial evaluates the efficacy and safety of P. dactylifera L. leaf extract (formulated as WartOver®) as a novel treatment for cutaneous warts. Study Design. Based on the results of our previously published pilot clinical trial and the CONSORT guideline, this randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled study was performed on 70 eligible patients divided into intervention and placebo groups (N = 35/per group). Every 2 weeks, patients were examined to assess the rate of complete clearance, duration of treatment, patient satisfaction (measured using a Likert scale), and occurrence of any adverse effects and recurrence in a maximum of 12 weeks of treatment and at the 6-month follow-up. Results. Based on the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis approach, complete clearance was achieved in 24 patients in the intervention group (68.57%; confidence interval 95% = 0.51–0.81), which was significantly higher than that in the placebo group (8.57%; CI 95% = 0.02–0.23, p<0.0001). The time to complete clearance was 7.6 weeks (mean ± SD: 53.30 ± 17.17 days). The treatment was very satisfactory (Likert score of 4.24 ± 1.15 (mean ± SD)) with no recurrence or adverse effects. Conclusion. WartOver® is a novel efficacious treatment for cutaneous warts with minimal risk for adverse events or recurrence. Due to the rising popularity of CAM approaches in medicine, including herbal medicines, WartOver® can be a valuable choice for clinicians against cutaneous warts. This trial is registered with IRCT20200509047352N2.

Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Dietary Pattern and Implementation in Healthcare and Clinical Practice.

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine recommends eating a predominantly plant-based diet with a variety of minimally processed vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. At any level, adoption of a plant-based diet can improve one's health through a variety of mechanisms. Increasing intake of plant-based foods often results in increases in fiber intake, decreases in saturated fat intake, and increased intake of essential vitamins and minerals, among other healthful benefits. Despite such potential benefits, many individuals are reluctant or resistant to change their usual dietary behaviors or unable to sustain diet changes over time. This is largely because an individual's decision to adopt a plant-based diet is influenced by a diverse array of motivating factors, priorities, and/or misconceptions about nutrient adequacy of plant-based diets. Here, we discuss key points from a session at the American College of Lifestyle Medicine's annual conference LM2023. Specifically, we review common preconceptions about plant-based diets, provide guidance on removing the barriers to adopting and adhering to plant-based diets, and highlight key literature findings supporting the health benefits of plant-based diets. Last, we discuss how plant-based diets are increasingly being implemented within health care and clinical practice to support Food is/as Medicine approaches.

Artificial intelligence of imaging and clinical neurological data for predictive, preventive and personalized (P3) medicine for Parkinson Disease: The NeuroArtP3 protocol for a multi-center research study.

The burden of Parkinson Disease (PD) represents a key public health issue and it is essential to develop innovative and cost-effective approaches to promote sustainable diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. In this perspective the adoption of a P3 (predictive, preventive and personalized) medicine approach seems to be pivotal. The NeuroArtP3 (NET-2018-12366666) is a four-year multi-site project co-funded by the Italian Ministry of Health, bringing together clinical and computational centers operating in the field of neurology, including PD. The core objectives of the project are: i) to harmonize the collection of data across the participating centers, ii) to structure standardized disease-specific datasets and iii) to advance knowledge on disease's trajectories through machine learning analysis. The 4-years study combines two consecutive research components: i) a multi-center retrospective observational phase; ii) a multi-center prospective observational phase. The retrospective phase aims at collecting data of the patients admitted at the participating clinical centers. Whereas the prospective phase aims at collecting the same variables of the retrospective study in newly diagnosed patients who will be enrolled at the same centers. The participating clinical centers are the Provincial Health Services (APSS) of Trento (Italy) as the center responsible for the PD study and the IRCCS San Martino Hospital of Genoa (Italy) as the promoter center of the NeuroartP3 project. The computational centers responsible for data analysis are the Bruno Kessler Foundation of Trento (Italy) with TrentinoSalute4.0 -Competence Center for Digital Health of the Province of Trento (Italy) and the LISCOMPlab University of Genoa (Italy). The work behind this observational study protocol shows how it is possible and viable to systematize data collection procedures in order to feed research and to advance the implementation of a P3 approach into the clinical practice through the use of AI models.

Comprehensive Review of Functional and Nutraceutical Properties of Craterellus cornucopioides (L.) Pers.

Nutraceuticals represent an emerging and dynamic scientific field due to their important potential in integrated healthcare through nutritional and medicinal approaches that interact and complement each other mutually. In an attempt to find new sources for such preparations, the present research focuses on the species Craterellus cornucopioides (L.) Pers. (Cantharellaceae), also known as the black trumpet. This wild mushroom species is renowned for its culinary excellence and unique taste and is used especially in a dehydrated state. However, beyond its gastronomic value, recent scientific investigations have revealed its potential as a source of bioactive compounds with pharmaceutical and therapeutic significance. Our study aimed, therefore, to review the current data regarding the morphology, chemical profile, and medicinal potential of the black trumpet mushroom, highlighting its unique attributes. By conducting a comprehensive literature analysis, this paper contributes to the broader understanding of this remarkable fungal species as a potential functional food and its promising applications in the field of therapeutics.

Enhanced image diagnosing approach in medicine using quantum adaptive machine learning techniques

Enhanced image diagnosing approach in medicine using quantum adaptive machine learning techniques

Long-term preservation of the effect of immunotherapy with pembrolizumab as a second line treatment for recurrent skin melanoma

Over the past two decades, the medical community around the world has been not only a witness, but an active participant in the global transformation of healthcare taking place against the backdrop of the rapid development of modern biomedical technologies. Of course, within the framework of these transformations, several quite independent directions can be distinguished. However, most of them, one way or another, can be united by the concept of “personalized medicine”, which is the subject of discussion among doctors of all specialties, which emphasizes its undoubted relevance. One of the clearest confirmations of this is the rapid growth in the number of review publications devoted to the consideration of issues of a personalized approach in medicine. Using the example of one of the most unpredictable tumors – skin melanoma – in recent years, expressive data have been obtained indicating the effectiveness of individual approaches, personalization of treatment as a result of the use of timely, gene-molecular studies. Despite the fact that in most cases melanoma is localized on the skin and, with a certain degree of oncological alertness, can be detected in the early stages, statistics indicate disappointing facts about the advanced state of the disease. Over the past 40 years, the incidence has increased by 300%. The possibilities of targeted and immunotherapy in the treatment of melanoma in patients with an advanced and unresectable stage of the disease allow long-term effective control of the disease and its symptoms.

Features of the Worldview of Pediatric Palliative Care Physicians: an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Pediatric palliative care is a multidisciplinary branch of medicine and health care that includes both biomedical techniques of patient care and social and psychological practices. At the same time, its goal differs from that of curative approaches in medicine and is predominantly to alleviate patients’ suffering. We used the qualitative method of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), which allows us to uncover the «inside», emotional and existentially significant dimensions of respondents’ personal and intersubjective experiences. This method provides an «insider» perspective of the community under study. The article presents the results of IP. interviews with nine doctors of pediatric palliative care working in the Russian health care system and taking specialized advanced training courses. The goals of the study were to identify the most subjectively significant factors for physicians of palliative care for children, influencing the ethical and communicative aspects of interaction with patients and their parents, and to identify the most important problems and issues of concern to specialists, with an emphasis on worldview. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using a specially designed questionnaire and mainly addressed the topics and issues of worldview of palliative care physicians (including the role of faith and religion) in the context of communication with patients and their parents. As a result, it was found that doctors typically assess their work as a vocation (in a number of cases — with explicitly religious attribution), and this is used by part of the respondents as a justification of their activities in front of a critically minded environment. A common view of a hospice is that of a place that needs to be comfortable, home-like. Subjectively, the majority of respondents evaluate themselves as Orthodox Christians, but emphasize the «non-fanatical» nature of their faith. At the same time, respondents note the significant influence of parental religiosity on communication patterns and acceptance of inevitable disease outcomes. Most respondents noted a high need for a spiritual counsellor in the hospice. Respondents do not necessarily insist that the counsellor be a priest, but his or her figure in the physicians’ descriptions has distinct confessional features.