BACKGROUND Ischemic stroke is one of the leading global causes of disability and death. Despite advances in modern medical technology that improve acute treatment and rehabilitation measures, post-stroke anxiety and depression (PSD) do not receive sufficient attention. AIM To systematically evaluate risk factors and early identification markers for PSD for more precise screening and intervention strategies in clinical practice. METHODS This retrospective study analyzed clinical data from 112 patients with ischemic stroke admitted between January 2022 and December 2024. Based on assessments using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAMA) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD) at 2 weeks (± 3 days) post-stroke, patients were classified into the PSD group (HAMA ≥ 7 and/or HAMD ≥ 7) and the non-PSD group (HAMA < 7 and HAMD < 7). Observation indicators included psychological assessment, demographic and clinical characteristics, stroke-related clinical indicators, neuroimaging assessments, and laboratory biomarkers. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for PSD, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of potential biomarkers. RESULTS Of the 112 patients, 46 (41.1%) were diagnosed with PSD. Multivariate analysis identified five independent risk factors: Female gender [Odds ratio (OR) = 2.32, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.56-3.45], history of mental disorders prior to stroke (OR = 3.17, 95%CI: 1.89-5.32), infarct location in the frontal lobe or limbic system (OR = 2.86, 95%CI: 1.73-4.71), stroke severity with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale ≥ 8 at admission (OR = 2.54, 95%CI: 1.62-3.99), and low social support (Social Support Rating Scale < 35, OR = 2.18, 95%CI: 1.42-3.36). Subgroup analysis showed that depression patients more commonly had left hemisphere lesions (68.4% vs 45.2%), while anxiety patients more frequently presented with right hemisphere lesions (59.5% vs 39.5%). The PSD group exhibited larger infarct volumes (8.7 cm3 vs 5.3 cm3), more severe white matter hyperintensities, and more pronounced frontal lobe atrophy. Analysis of inflammatory markers showed significantly elevated levels of interleukin-6 (7.8 pg/mL vs 4.5 pg/mL) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (15.6 pg/mL vs 9.8 pg/mL) in the PSD group, while hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function assessment revealed higher cortisol levels (386.5 ± 92.3 nmol/L vs 328.7 ± 75.6 nmol/L) and flattened diurnal rhythm in the PSD group. CONCLUSION PSD is a complex neuropsychiatric consequence of stroke involving disruption of the frontal-limbic circuitry, neuroinflammatory responses, and dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability among adults. With the advancement of medical technology, the survival period of stroke patients has been significantly prolonged, but the neuropsychiatric sequelae in the chronic stage have become increasingly prominent. Post-stroke depression is one of the very important manifestations. This article conducts a further discussion on this issue.

Dual-synergistic molybdenum disulfide and molybdenum carbide cocatalyst integrated with graphitic carbon nitride for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production.

An ultrasmall structure-optimized vanadium oxides integrated into nitrogen-doped bead-chain-like hollow carbon nanofibers for advanced flexible cathode of zinc ion batteries.

Enhanced removal of sulfur-containing ions post persulfate advanced oxidation: Interfacial adsorption-mediated foam fractionation process by amphiphilic graphene oxide.

Endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) represents a development in minimally invasive procedures, offering the potential benefits of reduced tissue disruption, shorter recovery times, and enhanced precision. This review traces the historical development of ESS, explores its core techniques-including transforaminal, interlaminar, and biportal approaches-and evaluates its role in treating conditions like herniated disks and spinal stenosis. By comparing clinical outcomes of ESS with standard open surgery, this article highlights the importance of patient selection, surgeon expertise, and evidence-based practice. Challenges, such as the steep learning curve, limitations in visualization, and risk of complications, are discussed, along with strategies for integrating ESS into modern spine care. The review concludes by identifying research gaps and opportunities for technological advancements, aiming to guide surgeons in adopting ESS and improving patient outcomes.

Circulating microRNAs in viral myocarditis: Advancements in biological understanding and potential clinical applications.

This study presents an integrated, operational mosquito surveillance effort conducted in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, revealing substantial variation in Culex pipiens s.l. abundance and West Nile virus (WNV) infection risk. In 2024, mosquito abundance and WNV-positive pools increased more than four- and 5-fold, respectively, compared to 2023. Interestingly, strong correlations between weather and mosquito abundance were absent, with the exception of a negative correlation between temperature and abundance at a 5-wk lag in 2023. The temporal overlap between peak mosquito abundance and peak WNV infection was more synchronized in 2024, potentially heightening human transmission risk. These findings guided Maryland Department of Agriculture mosquito control operations, underscoring the value of high-resolution and timely surveillance. The integration of the IDX identification platform enhanced sample triage, cold chain preservation, and species confirmation, enabling rapid, large-scale data logging and testing. This modernized workflow of field collection, automated identification, and WNV testing offers a scalable model for responsive vector surveillance aligned with climate-driven risks and advanced technologies.

Epigenome editing based treatment: Progresses and challenges.

Introduction: The healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements, an aging population, and the increasing complexity of patient care. The National University of Singapore (NUS)’s Common Curriculum for Healthcare Professional Education (CCHPE) is a comprehensive framework designed to foster collaboration, communication, and shared decision-making among future healthcare leaders. This article explores how NUS Medicine’s curriculum prepares students for the challenges of modern healthcare through a multi-disciplinary approach, with a focus on Singapore’s unique healthcare context. Methods: NUS Medicine employs several strategies including: (1) Curriculum design with the CCHPE structured around five pillars that integrate multi-disciplinary perspectives; (2) Educational Strategies through the implementation of Interprofessional Education (IPE) initiatives, Longitudinal Patient Experience (LPE) programs, use of technology and digital tools, as well as the assessment and feedback mechanisms to foster collaboration among students of different healthcare disciplines; and (3) Stakeholder Management though relationship building and ensuring leadership support. Results: The CCHPE enhances teamwork, communication, and patient outcomes, preparing graduates to thrive in team-based healthcare environments. NUS Medicine graduates are known for their ability to effectively work in multi-disciplinary teams, contributing to high standards of care in Singapore. Conclusion: NUS Medicine’s CCHPE emphasises the importance of collaboration in modern healthcare, preparing students to meet complex healthcare challenges, and is essential for ensuring that our graduates are able to meet the demand for high-quality, team-based care in Singapore.

Virtual reality in cognitive and affective neuroscience.

The rapid advancement of science and technology, particularly in forensic science, has significantly enhanced crime investigation methodologies. One such advancement is the utilization of Scientific Crime Investigation methods, specifically the analysis of touch DNA from fingerprints. This research investigates the efficiency of fingerprint powders and swabbing agents in improving the quality and quantity of touch DNA for forensic applications. Touch DNA, derived from cellular materials like sweat and skin cells, presents a valuable source of genetic material for identification purposes. The study involved experimental analyses using Regular Silk Black Fingerprint Powder and Magnetic Dual-Purpose Powder, coupled with non-ionic detergent surfactants as swabbing agents. DNA samples were collected from volunteers with varying DNA shedding levels, processed, and analyzed using quantitative PCR and capillary electrophoresis. Results indicated that fingerprint powders significantly reduce the quantity and quality o

ABSTRACT Background Stroke is a major cause of disability globally, with particularly severe effects in low-resource countries like Ghana. Survivors often experience upper limb motor impairments that limit independence, while access to advanced rehabilitation technologies remains limited. This highlights the need for affordable and effective solutions to support recovery. Objectives This study develops a low-cost mechanical hand exoskeleton to assist rehabilitation using pneumatic and biomechanical design principles suitable for resource-limited environments. Methods Pneumatic soft actuators made from 3D-printed TPU 95A bellows and PLA scaffolds were designed to generate finger flexion through controlled pressurization. A pneumatic box equipped with dual vacuum pumps, solenoid valves, silicone tubing, and an Arduino-based controller regulated airflow. Integrated flex sensors enabled real-time motion replication for bilateral training. Iterative prototyping and testing were performed to optimize performance and usability, and the final prototype was evaluated for functionality in hand rehabilitation tasks. Results The exoskeleton successfully assisted digit flexion and extension by mimicking movements of the healthy hand. It achieved a bend angle of 66.0° at 30 kPa in approximately 5 seconds, producing a flexion force of 3.82 N and a hyperextension force of 1.342 N at a 16.0° hyperextension angle. The glove weighed 207 g, and the pneumatic control box weighed 794 g. Conclusions This low-cost pneumatic exoskeleton offers a practical and accessible rehabilitation tool with strong potential to improve hand recovery outcomes for stroke patients in Ghana and similar settings.

ABSTRACT As technological advancements continue to shape decision support systems, algorithmic tools are increasingly utilised in career-related contexts. This research investigates how terminology influences individuals’ acceptance of algorithmic decision aids in career decision-making. We introduce the concept of algorithm term aversion, examining whether users’ preferences differ depending on how algorithms are labelled. Across three studies (N = 459), we explored preferences for algorithmically driven agents in various contexts: job applications (Study 1), future career advice (Study 2), and career advancement (Study 3). Findings reveal a consistent aversion to the term “artificial intelligence” across all contexts and outcome measures. However, broader algorithm aversion did not consistently emerge, suggesting terminology plays a critical role in user acceptance. Understanding how users respond to algorithmic terminology can inform the design of more user-friendly decision support systems, thereby enhancing the integration of AI into sensitive decision-making domains, such as career decisions.

Assessing the dynamic interplay of policy, economic, and technological factors for sustainable recycling of decommissioned wind turbine blades in China: A system dynamics approach.

Technologic advances in flow cytometry.

Deacidification of vegetable oils: advanced technologies, mechanistic insights, and emerging strategies.

Antibody-independent affinity strategies for the capture of circulating tumor cell: ligands, capture and release.

Therapeutic potential of protein-protein interaction modulators in antiviral research.

Mathematical modelling of injection time in autoinjectors: State of the art and future perspectives.