Research Efforts Research Articles

Impact of Isomaltulose on Glycemic Response in Diabetic and Healthy Populations: A Meta-Analysis.

Effective management of postprandial glycemic control is critical for diabetic patients, as elevated postprandial glucose levels can lead to complications such as cardiovascular disease and neuropathy. This study evaluates isomaltulose, a low-glycemic-index carbohydrate, as an alternative to sucrose in mitigating postprandial glucose spikes. To synthesize evidence from existing studies and assess the efficacy of isomaltulose in reducing postprandial glycemic levels compared to sucrose in diabetic populations. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Searches were performed across PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized controlled trials or crossover studies comparing isomaltulose and sucrose. Data were extracted, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess study quality. Ten studies were included, involving 367 participants. The meta-analysis showed that isomaltulose significantly reduced plasma glucose level at 60 min post-meal, though the actual effect could be modest in terms of clinical relevance compared to sucrose (MD: -7.99, 95% CI: -8.58, -7.39, p < 0.00001). Notable variability in the study results was observed, which may be attributed to multiple factors such as participant demographics and meal composition. The findings from the analysis are supportive for the use of isomaltulose as a beneficial dietary alternative to sucrose for managing postprandial glycemic levels in diabetic patients. Future research effort is suggested to focus on larger, diverse populations to enhance generalizability and explore the impact of dietary context on glycemic response.

Development of a miniaturized electrochemical biochip

The technological evolution towards portable systems for nucleic acids (NAs) analysis is central in diagnostics and healthcare. Conventional approaches for genetic analysis require multistep procedures, from the genetic material purification to its detection, that are mostly based on the NA amplification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and constrained to bulky specialized instruments and dedicated laboratories. These limitations imply an increase in time and cost of analysis avoiding the possibility of massive molecular screening, as in the case of an infectious pandemic, and accessible diagnosis. Therefore, research efforts are moving towards new Lab-on-a-chip (LoC) technologies that guarantee a more integrated, decentralized, user-friendly, and low-cost NA analysis. These are based on miniaturized optical or electrical chips on which it is possible to integrate a sensing surface for specific analytical applications. In this scenario, we presented the fabrication and characterization of a miniaturized electrochemical (EC) biochip as a potential LoC for genetic applications. The chip was developed with microfabricated electrodes on top and polycarbonate/PDMS microchambers for the surface treatment and functionalization. The characterization of chip EC performances has been performed by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Moreover, the chip surface has been functionalized with thiol-modified oligonucleotides, whose immobilization has been characterized by contact angle (CA) and surface free energy (SFE) analysis. Results reported a good robustness and responsivity of the chip proving its suitability for sensing array preparation and integration in a LoC format.

Preparing for the possible impending surge of Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Pakistan

Madam, We are writing this letter to bring your attention to the recent cases of Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), in Quetta, Balochistan and Karachi, Sindh.1, 2 This rings an alarming bell as the cases have spread to multiple parts/provinces of the country. Congo virus belongs to the Nairovirus genus in the Bunyaviridae family. CCHF is a severe zoonotic viral disease with high mortality rates (WHO: 10%-40%), caused by a tick-borne virus that can be transmitted to humans by the bites of hyalomma marginatum or through contact with infected tissue/blood from cattle. This illness is identified by fever and bleeding, frequently accompanied by vague symptoms. Identified in more than 30 countries, CCHF has an incidence of 10000-15000 cases annually. The number of cases has been steadily rising. The seroprevalence of Congo virus in Pakistan is estimated to be 2.7%, having a higher prevalence in the rural areas due to their higher exposure to cattle.3 The confirmation of recent Congo virus cases, underscores the need for better vigilance and appropriate measures. Pakistan’s environment is the perfect breeding ground for ticks to grow, making CCHF an endemic in Pakistan since its discovery in 1976. CCHF infections experience a biannual increase from March to May and again from July to September, due to fluctuating temperatures during these periods.4 Tick bites and direct contact with infected animals immediately after slaughter are the major causes of the spread of this infection. Hence, Eid-ul-Adha puts livestock workers more at risk of this virus. In the next decade or so, Eid-ul-Adha will fall during the summer, when CCHF is more prevalent, indicating the dire necessity of enacting laws governing the killing of sacrificial animals and appropriate post-holiday protocols.5 At present, there is no widely approved vaccine for this disease. Current management is primarily supportive care. Considering these grave facts, if appropriate measures are not taken, Pakistan will soon fall victim to an impending surge of CCHF. Pakistan’s government lacks the robust healthcare infrastructure that is necessary to curb endemics and epidemics. So, appropriate measures and prompt screening is of vital importance. Since the illness's early stages are marked by flu-like symptoms, many patients are misdiagnosed. Hence, healthcare professionals should be alerted. Increased efforts towards mass awareness should be made. Closer coordination of health departments and intergovernmental organizations is needed. Routine animal surveillance for tick infestation and use of pesticides should be increased in the coming months. Proper reporting of new cases is highly impertinent to prevent further spread. Research efforts and collaborations with international institutions should be augmented to develop better treatment options.

Landscape of geriatric oncology in Switzerland: Results from a nationwide survey.

e13855 Background: Geriatric oncology (GO) addresses the unique needs of older cancer patients, an increasingly critical population as the demographic shift towards aging continues. However, evidence gaps and a lack of standardized guidelines hinder the integration of GO into daily oncology practice. We conducted a comprehensive survey among physicians evaluate the current status of geriatric oncology in Switzerland . identify positive aspects as well as barriers. Methods: A structured questionnaire was disseminated to approximately 300 oncology professionals including hematologists, pathologists, gynecologic oncologists via email through the Swiss Group for Clinical Cancer Research (SAKK) between July and September 2024. Anonymous responses were collected using MS Forms with follow-up at the SAKK semi-annual meeting. The survey assessed baseline characteristics, utilization of GO guidelines, screening practices, and perceptions regarding the benefits and barriers to implementing GO in clinical settings. Results: A total of 100 responses were analyzed (response rate: &gt; 30%). Key findings include: Participant Profile: 55% female; 45% male. Predominantly professionals managing solid tumors, with 50% utilizing GO guidelines. The majority of participants were senior specialists ( &gt; 10 years of clinical experience). Screening Practices: The G8 tool was the most frequently used (45/68), primarily for patients aged &gt; 65 with geriatric syndromes or &gt; 75 years. Benefits of GO Assessments: Improved treatment personalization (69 mentions), quality of life (61 mentions), and decision-making accuracy (58 mentions) were cited as key advantages. Barriers: Personnel and expertise shortages were noted by 48% of respondents, alongside limited interest in GO workshops and insufficient healthcare policy support. Clinical Impact: Treatment modifications following GO assessments were reported occasionally (85%) or often (8%), with frequent exclusion of chemotherapy when inappropriate. Research Interests: High interest was observed in research domains like gynecological oncology, hematology, and surgery. Conclusions: While Switzerland has a robust network of experienced oncology professionals and supportive services, the integration of GO remains inconsistent and sparse. Addressing barriers such as personnel training, policy frameworks, and fostering research collaboration is essential. Initiatives to promote early education in GO, advocate for patient-centered care, and establish national consensus standards are critical next steps. These efforts will position Switzerland as a leader in geriatric oncology amidst a rapidly aging European population. Future Directions: The Swiss Geriatric Oncology Group (SGOG) aims to expand its efforts in education, research, and policy advocacy to bridge gaps in the implementation of GO, ensuring optimal care for older cancer patients.

Prevalence of cytopenic myelofibrosis in the United States.

e18575 Background: Among patient (pts) with myelofibrosis (MF), cytopenias (anemia or thrombocytopenia) are a marker of advanced disease, associated with higher symptom burden, as well as a higher risk of leukemic transformation and death. Epidemiological data is lacking on the prevalence of MF, particularly those with cytopenic MF in the United States (US). Methods: Administrative claims data from the Optum Research Database (ORD) were used to select pts with MF (≥2 non-diagnostic claims for MF) and continuous enrollment for ≥6 months prior to and ≥12 months after diagnosis (unless deceased within 12 months of diagnosis) from July 2016 to April 2023. Cytopenic MF was defined as the presence of anemia or thrombocytopenia based on diagnostic codes in medical claims, at the time of MF diagnosis and prior to treatment initiation. Prevalence of MF was estimated by the number of pts with MF in ORD over a 4-year look-back period prior to December 31, 2022 with 12 months of enrollment in 2022, divided by the number of enrollees in ORD who had 12 months of enrollment in 2022. The prevalence of MF and cytopenic MF in the ORD was standardized to the US population by age, sex, and region using 2023 US census data overall and restricted to adults. Results: Of 12.4 million enrollees in ORD in 2022, 1,368 had MF. Among pts with MF, 48.8% were male, and 82.1% were ≥65 years of age. A majority of pts were cytopenic at diagnosis (73.8%) with a higher percentage with cytopenia at treatment initiation (85.5%). The prevalence of MF in ORD was 11.0 per 100,000 enrollees. Standardized to the US population, the estimated prevalence of MF was 6.3 per 100,000 people, and 4.5 per 100,000 people for cytopenic MF (Table). Prevalence estimates were higher when standardized to the US adult population ≥18 years of age for MF (8.0 per 100,000 people) and cytopenic MF (5.7 per 100,000 people) (Table). Standardized prevalence estimates for cytopenic MF were higher overall and among adults at the time of treatment initiation compared to at the time of MF diagnosis (Table). Standardized prevalence estimates of non-cytopenic MF were roughly half of the estimates for cytopenic MF (Table). Conclusions: Based on data from the ORD standardized to the US population, 21,133 pts were estimated to have MF in 2023 in the US, of which 70.8% had cytopenic MF at diagnosis and an additional 13% developed cytopenia at the start of treatment. These estimates are foundational to understanding the burden of disease in pts with MF in the US, including those with cytopenia and for supporting additional efforts in clinical research, education, treatment options, and health policy. Prevalence of MF in the US. Cytopenia at diagnosis Cytopenia prior to treatment MF Cytopenic Non-cytopenic Cytopenic Non-cytopenic US population* 6.3 4.5 1.8 5.3 1.0 US adult population* 8.0 5.7 2.3 6.7 1.3 *Per 100,000 people in 2023.

The underlying dynamics of a suicidal ideation latent network model: The role of hopelessness, psychopathology, emotion regulation, and behavioral coping skills in adolescents from the general population.

The underlying dynamics of a suicidal ideation latent network model: The role of hopelessness, psychopathology, emotion regulation, and behavioral coping skills in adolescents from the general population.

Impacts of the 2010 Connecticut School Grounds Pesticide Ban a Decade Later: Part 3. Potential Transitions to Synthetic Turf

Prohibited by state legislation in 2010, changes in the use of Environmental Protection Agency–registered pesticides on school grounds have impacted management decisions in Connecticut. A survey was distributed to school grounds managers. This is part three of a three-part series that documents grounds maintenance changes, grounds quality, and potential transitions to synthetic turf 10 years after this ban. We inquired about the prospective transition from natural turfgrass fields to synthetic playing surfaces and the driving factors for this transition 10 years after the pesticide ban. Transitions to synthetic turf by Connecticut schools were primarily influenced by field use demand and population per square mile. Research and extension efforts focused on synthetic turf are warranted due to its increased popularity after the school pesticide ban.

Exotic bees in urban ecosystems: establishment, impact, and potential for invasion.

Exotic bees in urban ecosystems: establishment, impact, and potential for invasion.

Protocol for mpox virus inactivation in containment level 3 for safe handling of animal samples.

Protocol for mpox virus inactivation in containment level 3 for safe handling of animal samples.

Methods: Increasing feasibility of total blood cell count analysis in field studies: Effects of plastic tubes and storage duration.

Methods: Increasing feasibility of total blood cell count analysis in field studies: Effects of plastic tubes and storage duration.

Ethical Considerations in Psychiatric Genomics.

Ethical Considerations in Psychiatric Genomics.

Prevalence and characteristics of tobacco use among adults in Kazakhstan: A cross-sectional National Survey.

Smoking remains a major public health concern worldwide, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Despite the implementation of tobacco control measures, smoking prevalence in Kazakhstan remains high. This study aims to assess the prevalence, demographic characteristics, and regional variations in smoking habits among adults in Kazakhstan. A cross-sectional national survey was conducted from October 2021 to May 2022, covering all 17 regions of Kazakhstan. A total of 6720 adults aged 18-69years participated, selected using a weighted multistage cluster sampling method. Data were collected through structured interviews based on the WHO STEPwise approach. Smoking status, tobacco consumption patterns, and smoking cessation attempts were analyzed. The results were reported as means with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The overall smoking prevalence was 19.1%. Smoking was significantly more common among men (30.3%) than women (7.9%). The highest smoking prevalence was observed in the 30-44 age group (44.2%) and among private-sector employees (53.2%). Regional differences were notable, with the lowest smoking prevalence in Atyrau (9.2%) and the highest in Pavlodar (30.4%). Among current smokers, 89.1% smoked daily, with an average of 11.8 cigarettes per day (95% CI: 11.4-12.2). Only 36.7% of smokers who visited healthcare professionals in the past year received advice to quit. Additionally, 42.8% attempted to quit smoking in the past 12months. Passive smoking exposure was common, with 26.8% of women and 22.3% of men exposed at home, and 30.2% of men and 14.4% of women exposed at work. The prevalence of smokeless tobacco use was low (1%). Smoking remains prevalent among adults in Kazakhstan, with significant differences by gender, age, occupation, and region. The high prevalence of daily smoking and the low frequency of smoking cessation advice from healthcare professionals indicate the need for stronger tobacco control policies, targeted public health campaigns, and enhanced smoking cessation support programs. These findings provide a basis for future research and policy-making efforts aimed at reducing tobacco consumption and its associated health risks.

Osteobrama sps.: A promising high-value fish for diversification in freshwater aquaculture

The genus Osteobrama represents a diverse and ecologically significant group of fish species found throughout the freshwater systems of the Indian subcontinent. Despite facing numerous conservation challenges, such as habitat degradation and overfishing, these species offer promising opportunities for sustainable aquaculture. Their adaptability to different environmental conditions and compatibility with multi-species farming systems make them valuable candidates for aquaculture diversification, particularly in rural regions. Continued research and conservation efforts focused on these species can play a vital role in preserving their ecological functions while promoting economic benefits through aquaculture. Strengthening habitat protection and integrating aquaculture with conservation efforts will ensure the long-term sustainability of Osteobrama species.. KEYWORDS :

A phase 1b/2 trial of onvansertib in combination with NALIRIFOX for first line treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer (PANCONVA trial).

TPS4229 Background: Pancreatic cancer is a highly lethal disease. Despite research and drug development efforts focused on KRAS, no effective RAS inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of pancreatic cancer with KRAS mutation. PLK1 inhibition is a potential target in KRAS-mutated pancreatic cancer and may provide a new first-line treatment option. Onvansertib (also known as PCM-075 and NMS-1286937) is the first PLK1-specific adenosine triphosphate competitive inhibitor administered by oral route to enter clinical trials with proven antitumor activity in different preclinical models. Methods: This is a phase 1b/II, non-randomized, open label single arm study being conducted at the University of Kansas Cancer Center and its affiliated sites. The study is open for enrollment. Eligibility: Key inclusion includes pts with locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma who are treatment naïve, have adequate archival tissue for biomarker evaluation or are willing to undergo a biopsy, and have an ECOG of 0-1. Key Exclusion: Planned concomitant use of medications known to prolong the QT/QTc interval, use of strong CYP3A4 or CYP2C19 inhibitors or strong CYP3A4 inducers. Treatment Plan: The phase 1b (safety lead-in) will follow a dose de-escalation phase in which up to 2 different Onvansertib dose levels will be tested in combination with standard NALIRIFOX. Onvansertib starting dose level is 30mg orally once daily. The Phase II portion of the study will be a single-arm open-label enrollment with dosing based on the starting dose determination in the Phase Ib portion of the study (30mg or 20mg). NALIRIFOX (Nano-liposomal Irinotecan 50 mg/m2, Oxaliplatin 60 mg/m2, Leucovorin 400 mg/m2, 5-FU 2400 mg/m2) will be administered intravenously on D1 of the 14-day cycle. Onvansertib will be dosed orally on D1-5 of each 14-day cycle. Imaging will be performed at baseline and after every 4 cycles. Objectives: The primary objective of this study is to determine anti-tumor activity by measuring Overall Response Rate (ORR). The secondary objectives are to determine treatment safety based on toxicities in participants who have received at least one dose of onvansertib, to determine anti-tumor activity by Progression Free Survival (PFS), to determine anti-tumor activity by Disease Control Rate (DCR), to determine Overall Survival (OS). Statistical Plan: Simon's two-stage Optimum design will be used. The null hypothesis that the true response rate is 41% will be tested against a one-sided alternative that the true response rate is 65%. In the first stage, 10 evaluable pts will be enrolled. If there are 4 or fewer responses in these 10 pts, the study will be stopped. Otherwise, 11 additional evaluable pts will be accrued for a total of 21 evaluable pts. The null hypothesis will be rejected if 12 or more responses are observed in 21 evaluable pts. Clinical trial information: NCT06736717 .

Fuzzy-DDI: A robust fuzzy logic query model for complex drug-drug interaction prediction.

Fuzzy-DDI: A robust fuzzy logic query model for complex drug-drug interaction prediction.

Paving the way for bacteria-based drug delivery: biohybrid microrobots emerging from microrobotics and synthetic biology.

Advances in microrobotics and synthetic biology are paving the way for innovative solutions to long-standing challenges in drug delivery. Both fields have independently worked on engineering bacteria as a therapeutic system, focusing on enhancing propulsion, cargo delivery, detection, and biocompatibility. Bacteria, with their inherent adaptability and functional versatility, serve as an ideal foundation for these efforts, enabling them to navigate complex biological environments such as the human body. This review explores the convergence of microrobotics and synthetic biology, which has catalysed the development of biohybrid bacterial microrobots that integrate the strengths of both disciplines. By incorporating external control modalities - such as light, ultrasound, and magnetic fields - these hybrid systems address the limitations of purely microrobotic or biological approaches, offering new opportunities to enhance precision and efficacy in targeted therapies. However, realising the full potential of biohybrid bacterial microrobots requires overcoming critical challenges, such as ensuring compatibility between biological and synthetic components, scaling manufacturing processes, and defining regulatory pathways tailored to living therapeutics. Addressing these hurdles through joint, interdisciplinary research efforts, can unlock the transformative possibilities of these systems in modern medicine.

Screening for Endocrine Bioactivity Potential of Tobacco Product Chemicals Including Flavor Chemicals.

Adolescence and pregnancy involve elevated levels of hormones (e.g., estrogen, androgen) during which exposure to endocrine disruptors could have long-term developmental and reproductive toxicity (DART) effects. Therefore, the use prevalence and abuse liability of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among adolescents and youth, and during pregnancy, raises concerns about possible exposure to endocrine disruptors. In addition, endocrine disruptors have adverse effects on wildlife and environmental health. While many studies focus on carcinogenicity and mutagenicity of tobacco products, research efforts screening chemicals in tobacco products for endocrine disruption potential are few. In this study, we curated 5179 chemicals in tobacco and tobacco smoke, 2803 flavor chemicals, and 156 e-liquid chemicals from literature or openly available databases. We screened the chemicals for endocrine bioactivity using new approach methodologies (NAMs) developed through US Environmental Protection Agency's Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program. The specific NAMs, estrogenic and androgenic pathway models, identified 137 tobacco chemicals, 34 flavor chemicals, and three e-liquid chemicals (Veratraldehyde, (2E)-3-Phenylprop-2-enal, and 2'-Acetonaphthone) as "active," indicating potential endocrine bioactivity. Further, among the tobacco chemicals with endocrine bioactivity potential, 48 were environmentally persistent, 29 bioaccumulative, and 19 both persistent and bioaccumulative. Our findings document many chemicals in tobacco products with potential endocrine bioactivity, which raises concerns for both human and environmental health. These results also underscore the importance of DART potential of tobacco products and flavors. Overall, our study characterizes the endocrine bioactivity potential of tobacco and flavor chemicals and provides a list of chemicals to consider in future ecological and health risk assessments.

Exploring the multifaceted roles of resuscitation-promoting factors in tuberculosis: Implications for diagnosis, vaccine development, and drug targeting.

Exploring the multifaceted roles of resuscitation-promoting factors in tuberculosis: Implications for diagnosis, vaccine development, and drug targeting.

The nutritional characteristics and experiences of survivors of critical illness after hospital discharge: A multi-method narrative review.

The nutritional characteristics and experiences of survivors of critical illness after hospital discharge: A multi-method narrative review.

Advancing Alzheimer's Therapy: Computational strategies and treatment innovations.

Advancing Alzheimer's Therapy: Computational strategies and treatment innovations.