IntroductionLow-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) has gained popularity as an off-label treatment for androgenetic alopecia due to its efficacy and convenience compared to topical formulations. While commonly reported side effects include hypertrichosis, edema, and dizziness, the literature does not clearly document xerostomia as an adverse effect [1]. We report a case of severe dry mouth in an elderly patient treated with 0.5 mg/day of oral minoxidil. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of xerostomia associated with low-dose oral minoxidil, confirmed by symptom recurrence upon re-exposure. It highlights the need to consider dry mouth among potential systemic adverse effects of minoxidil, particularly as its dermatologic use becomes more widespread.

This study aims to systematically investigate the renoprotective mechanisms of Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM;丹参) in diabetic nephropathy (DN) through an integrative approach combining network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation. Bioactive constituents and pharmacological targets of Salvia miltiorrhiza were identified through systematic bioinformatics mining and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Molecular docking simulations validated interactions between key components and targets. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN mice were treated with Salvia miltiorrhiza to assess renal function, oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway modulation. Network pharmacology identified 62 overlapping targets between Salvia miltiorrhiza and DN, with TNF, AKT1, and EGFR as core targets. Molecular docking demonstrated strong binding affinities (e.g., luteolin-TNF: −9.2 kcal/mol). In vivo, Salvia miltiorrhiza significantly reduced hyperglycemia, proteinuria, serum creatinine (Scr), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), histopathology demonstrated reduced glomerulosclerosis and fibrosis, while attenuating oxidative stress and reduced serum levels of caspase-1, interleukin-18 (IL-18), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Western blot analysis confirmed significant reductions in phosphorylation levels of PI3K (p-PI3K), AKT (p-AKT), and mTOR (p-mTOR).  Salvia miltiorrhiza ameliorates DN progression through multi-target modulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, suppression of inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress mitigation. These findings mechanistically validate Salvia miltiorrhiza as a pleiotropic therapeutic agent targeting DN pathophysiology, providing translational rationale for clinical development. This study provides a pharmacological foundation for repurposing Salvia miltiorrhiza as a multi-target therapeutic agent in DN management.

This study investigates the integration of Large Language Models (LLMs) into supply chain workflow automation, with a focus on their technical, operational, financial, and socio-technical implications. Building on Dynamic Capabilities Theory and Socio-Technical Systems Theory, the research explores how LLMs can enhance logistics operations, increase workflow efficiency, and support strategic agility within supply chain systems. Using two developed prototypes—the Q inventory management assistant and the nodeStream© workflow editor, the paper demonstrates the practical potential of GenAI-driven automation in streamlining complex supply chain activities. A detailed analysis of system architecture and data governance highlights critical implementation considerations, including model reliability, data preparation, and infrastructure integration. The financial feasibility of LLM-based solutions is assessed through cost analyses related to training, deployment, and maintenance. Furthermore, the study evaluates the human and organisational impacts of AI integration, identifying key challenges around workforce adaptation and responsible AI use. The paper culminates in a practical roadmap for deploying LLM technologies in logistics settings and offers strategic recommendations for future research and industry adoption.

In this study, A Quantum-Classical Federated Learning (QCFL) framework designed for skin cancer prediction is presented. It integrates classical convolutional neural networks with variational quantum circuits so that both quantum computing and deep learning can be used in decentralized, privacy-preserving environments. The functioning of the Federated Learning model includes a efficient optimization algorithm suitable for quantum environments in FL called SCAFFOLD, which handle client heterogeneity and non-IID data distributions modeled using Dirichlet sampling. The framework includes three ways of training normal training along with trigger-based and semantic-based backdoor attacks to understand demonstrating the susceptibility of federated skin cancer models to stealthy adversarial behaviors. To defend against such threats, multiple detection and mitigation strategies are evaluated, including Activation Clustering, Neural Cleanse, and Fine-Pruning. . Additionally, a novel approach for defense, Spectral Defense, is proposed and developed, based on the eigen-spectrum analysis of internal neural activations to detect and ultimately suppress backdoor behavior without recourse to clean validation data. Experimental results on this hybrid quantum-classical model prove improvement in classification performance, whereas the Spectral Defense framework provides significant attack success rates reduction with little degradation in model accuracy. This work provides a robust and scalable approach for deploying secure federated learning systems to adverse conditions for medical image analysis.

A document by Clara CAO. Click on the document to view its contents.

To meet the growing demand for agricultural products, optimizing photosynthesis is a promising strategy to improve the crop yields. Phenotypic variance in photosynthesis has been observed within or between species. To further explore the potential of integrating photosynthesis parameters into crop breeding programs, we assessed agronomic traits and photosynthesis-related parameters across plant development in 631 barley recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from eight HvDRR sub-populations under field conditions. We found significant genotypic variations for the photosynthesis-related parameters and observed that their heritability ranged from 0.37 to 0.54. The observed multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) and dynamic QTL for photosynthesis across different developmental stages underlined the complexity of the genetics of photosynthesis in barley. The considerably higher prediction ability of genomic prediction models than QTL based prediction models illustrates that the photosynthesis-related parameters are inherited in a more complex way than classical agronomic traits. However, our results impressively demonstrate that the prediction ability for yield can be increased by integrating photosynthesis-related parameters into genomic prediction models. Therewith, our results raised a novel perspective on increasing the efficiency of crop breeding programs by integrating photosynthesis-related parameters into prediction models.

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial soil bacteria that reside near plant roots (in the rhizosphere) and support plants in various ways. The specific molecular mechanisms involved in these beneficial interactions are still under scrutiny. In this context, the present study describes the role of Bacillus endophyticus J13, a multiple abiotic-stress tolerant PGPR, in modulating various components of the leaf cell wall, in Arabidopsis thaliana, under well-watered and drought conditions. We have previously reported the positive impact of J13 on drought mitigation in A. thaliana [(Sharma et al., 2024)](#ref-0030) by modulation of soil water content. In the present study, we inoculated A. thaliana roots with J13, under well-watered or water-stressed conditions and analyzed the cell wall composition in leaves under the different treatments. We observed an inoculation specific reduction in lignin content, both under well-watered and water stressed conditions, while the cellulose content was found to be significantly high in water-stressed plants inoculated with J13. The expression of genes involved in, both, the lignin as well as cellulose biosynthetic pathways were upregulated in water-stressed plants, inoculated with J13. J13 inoculation in A. thaliana mutants, compromised in cellulose biosynthesis, eliminated the beneficial impact of the bacteria, indicating the imperativeness of a functional cellulose biosynthetic pathway in J13-mediated drought-tolerance in A. thaliana. J13 inoculation in A. thaliana mutants, with altered lignin composition (mutants with higher S lignin), exhibits no beneficial impact by J13, demonstrating importance of lignin composition towards plant-growth promoting activity of J13 in A. thaliana. This study demonstrates that J13 enhances the saccharification efficiency of A. thaliana leaves, under dehydration stress, by reducing the amount of lignin and elevating the amount of cellulose. Overall, our study suggested that modulation in cell-wall composition could be an important mechanism employed by J13 for drought mitigation in A. thaliana also positively influences polysaccharide digestibility. Therefore, such a strategy may be used to improve plant immunity and lignocellulosic properties.

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease and a prevalent form of aggressive tumors in females. It remains a leading cause of mortality among adult and older women worldwide, with therapeutic resistance leading to a barrier for reliable clinical outcomes. Many studies are exploring the relationship between epigenetic dysregulation and autophagy, driving therapy resistance, tumor progression, and metabolic changes. Sudden modifications in histone tails, non-coding RNAs, and DNA methylation patterns directly modify autophagic genes, while dysregulated autophagy conversely alters the epigenetic landscape under therapeutic stress. Recent studies have shown that molecular mechanisms link epigenetic alterations with autophagy regulation in breast cancer. This literature review systematically selected studies highlighting the molecular mechanism of autophagy dysregulation and its role in chemotherapy, endocrine, and targeted therapy resistance in breast cancer. This article briefly discusses the clinical implications of epigenetic biomarkers for early detection and treatment response prediction. Furthermore, we discussed new therapeutic methods combining autophagy inhibitors and epigenetic modulators, emphasizing the role of advanced medicine approaches powered by AI-driven drug discovery. The main idea of this literature review is to provide an in-depth insight into the epigenetic autophagy link in breast cancer and shed light on promising therapeutic outcomes overcoming chemotherapeutic resistance.

A document by ahmad matarneh. Click on the document to view its contents.

A document by Nohe Seyoume Lemma. Click on the document to view its contents.

Emberyonal Rhabdomyosarcoma Of The Prostate In Young Sudanese Male: A Rare Case Report

Objective: In this study, we aimed to present the demographic, ultrasonographic, genetic, obstetric, and postpartum results of 13 patients diagnosed with radial ray defects. Materials and methods: Thirteen patients diagnosed with radial ray defect between 2012 and 2024 were included in the study. Non-development or hypoplasia of any preaxial part of the upper extremity (radius, scaphoid, trapezoid bone, and thumb) on ultrasonography was considered a radial ray defect. Maternal age, gestational week at diagnosis, laterality of the radial ray defect, genetic results, presence of comorbid anomalies, termination status, and postpartum prognosis were obtained from the hospital records. Results: The range of maternal age at the time of diagnosis was 17-38 years and the gestational age ranged between 14-26 weeks. In the evaluation, four of the radial ray defects were bilateral, and nine were unilateral. Trisomy 18 was identified in two cases. Eight cases accepted the termination procedure. Two cases rejected termination and had spontaneous intrauterine death during pregnancy follow-up. One case was diagnosed with VACTERL association and died on postpartum 13th day. One case was monitored due to Fanconi aplastic anemia and one case had amniotic band syndrome in etiology and lives with a prosthetic arm. Conclusions: The frequency of radial ray defect accompanied by syndromic and congenital anomalies was high, and visualization of the radial bone or other preaxial bone structures on first-trimester fetal ultrasonography will ensure the diagnosis of radial ray defect in early gestational weeks. In case of a radial ray defect diagnosis, systemic organ screening should be performed with detailed ultrasonography and the necessary invasive procedure for karyotype examination should be advised to all families.

Importance: This study identifies specific language used for common problems seen in gynecology. Objective: To better identify language used by patients for gynecological conditions and understand how these terms may differ between communities. Study Design: observational qualitative study. Setting: An urban academic hospital. Population: Adult female patients (aged 18 and older) seen in the gynecology clinic were included, and those younger than 18 and non-English speakers were excluded. Methods: Interviews using a structured interview guide were conducted. New patients were enrolled in the study until the point of theoretical saturation. Key terms were identified and trends involving symptoms were investigated using natural language processing (NLP) techniques including lemmatization, text similarity, and sentiment. Outcome measures: Terminology gathered from study interviews was described. Results: 30 patients completed the study. Study participants included 12 (40%) Black patients, 9 (30%) White, 4 (13.3%) Hispanic and 3 (10.3%) Asian. Participants were equally distributed in age and most participants had attended some college 26 (86.6%). Almost half of the women had not been pregnant, 14 (46.7%). While many patients used some medical specific terminology, many also used symptoms specific common terms that were more descriptive of their experience. Patients identified “cysts” more commonly than “fibroids” and were concerned about cancer. Overwhelmingly patients identified communication problems between providers and patients resulting in misunderstandings and a lack of trust. Conclusion: By starting with identifying specific language used and expanding to identifying overall themes, we can improve understanding between patients and providers.

Cardiac hypertrophy is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease worldwide, and Mediterranean diet has shown great benefits in reducing cardiovascular disease-related mortality and morbidity. Numerous studies have ascertained that the protective effect of olive oil on the heart is mainly attributed to its active component, oleuropein (OLE); however, the mechanism remains unknown. We hypothesized that OLE provides cardioprotective effects against cardiac hypertrophy through the alleviation of endoplasmic reticulum stress. In the present study, different dosage regimens (10, 30, and 60 mg/kg) of OLE were intragastrically administered to an isoproterenol (ISO) (7.5 mg/kg)-induced cardiac hypertrophy mouse model. OLE alleviates ISO-induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis. In addition, the increased expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related genes, such as Glucose-Regulated Protein 78 (GRP78), activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), and protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), was blunted by OLE, with reduced Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) levels. Furthermore, after pretreatment with EX527 (a SIRT1 inhibitor), the anti-hypertrophic, anti-apoptosis, and ER stress effects of OLE were diminished, implying a key role of SIRT1 in ER stress inhibition. Our study indicates that OLE ameliorates ISO-induced cardiac hypertrophy through SIRT1 activation via ER stress inhibition.

Background and Purpose Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) selective inhibitors (flozins) are a class of antidiabetic drugs that improve glycemic control and have significant cardioprotective effects. The purpose of investigating flozins as adjunct therapy in type 1 diabetes is to explore their potential cardio- and nephroprotective benefits in this high-risk population, especially in light of increasing BMI trends. Experimental Approach This study presents results from a nanomechanical analysis of red blood cells (RBCs) elasticity in patients with type 1 diabetes following monthly dapagliflozin therapy. Measurements were conducted on RBCs obtained from a homogeneous group of 31 adult patients with type 1 diabetes and 14 healthy control volunteers, taking into account individual treatment modalities and metabolic control. The elastic modulus of erythrocytes was measured immediately after sample collection using the nanoindentation method with an atomic force microscopy probe. Key Results A reduction in RBCs stiffness after treatment was observed, dependent on gender and diabetes duration. Notably, the most significant improvement occurred in patients with diabetes duration exceeding 10 years, a group at elevated cardiovascular risk. Conclusion and Implications The observed improvement in the elastic modulus of erythrocytes following dapagliflozin therapy may provide additional rationale for the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 1 diabetes, extending beyond their established glycemic benefits. Further investigations in patient cohorts with a prolonged course of type 1 diabetes are warranted to validate these findings.

The xylem water-conducting system in plants is essential for the transport of water and nutrients, which is vital for plant’s normal growth and development. Therefore, the plasticity of the plant’s water-conducting structures and strategies plays a significant role in determining its capacity to survive under fluctuating environmental conditions. In this study, we evaluated the plasticity of root vessel traits of main roots for 27 herbaceous species along the drought gradients (precipitation from 505 mm to 70 mm) in arid region of China. Research results indicate that as the degree of drought stress increases, herbaceous species in Leguminosae adopt a strategy prioritizing water-conducting efficiency, characterized by an increase in the number of vessels and a larger vessel diameter, leading to a significant increase in the root water-conducting area ratio and overall water-conducting efficiency. In contrast, herbaceous species in Zygophyllaceae adopt a strategy prioritizing water-conducting safety, characterized by an increase in the number of vessels and a decrease in vessel diameter, resulting in a downward trend in overall water-conducting efficiency. The water-conducting strategy of herbaceous species in Leguminosae can effectively enhance root water conduction capacity in the short term, but the increased number and larger diameter of vessels significantly raise the risk of xylem cavitation and embolism, therefore reducing their adaptability to drought stress. In contrast, the water-conducting strategy of herbaceous species in Zygophyllaceae leads to a proportional reduction in root water conduction capacity, but the corresponding increase in vessel number helps maintain a high root water-conducting area ratio, ensuring the stability of root water transport and enhancing their adaptability to drought stress. This study will contribute to a deeper scientific understanding of the ecological adaptation strategies of different herbaceous taxa to drought stress, and provide a theoretical foundation for the sustainable management of grassland ecosystems in arid regions.

The importance of Antarctic iceberg meltwater for the Southern Ocean has been a strong incentive to include Lagrangian icebergs in ocean and climate models. However, the modeled iceberg thickness has previously been constrained to 250 m, which appears to be underestimated given the frequent observations of icebergs grounded on substantially deeper bathymetric ridges. In this study, we define the initial model iceberg thickness based on the thickness of the ice shelf from which they calve and rationalize the way to define the iceberg size classes. Ocean—sea-ice—iceberg simulations indicate that more than half of the iceberg melting is discharged over the Antarctic continental shelf, reaching an average of 631 Gt yr-1 if the interaction of icebergs with bathymetry is neglected, and 802 Gt yr-1 if a simple grounding scheme is implemented. Such additional freshwater injected into regions prone to sea ice production has important consequences for the ocean properties around Antarctica. This freshwater enhances the ocean stratification, limiting deep convection and favoring the intrusion of relatively warm Circumpolar Deep Water onto some parts of the continental shelf. Moreover, the simulated distribution of grounded icebergs blocks drifting sea ice, thereby promoting areas of thick sea ice and polynyas when the fast ice parameterization is included. This work emphasizes the need for further research into the physical representation of iceberg grounding and iceberg—sea-ice interaction.

Engraftment Syndrome (ES) is a non-infectious complication occurring during the peri-engraftment period of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). We present a case of a 9-year-old boy with relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma who underwent autologous HSCT and developed early-onset ES with predominant gastrointestinal and cardiogenic manifestations. The onset of ES on Day +5 post-HSCT, prior to neutrophil recovery and in absence of classical features represents an unusual presentation. Prior nivolumab exposure possibly primed the immune system, leading to exaggerated cytokine response. Timely administration of corticosteroids resulted in rapid clinical recovery. This case underscores the need for heightened vigilance for atypical presentations of ES.

Aplastic Anemia Following Dengue Virus Infection: A Late Presentation:Keywords: Dengue virus, Aplastic anemia, Immunosuppressive therapy, Bone marrow failure, case report

The study explores and investigates the soil and water properties of the Oum-Souid wetland, a lake located in the far west of the Ghardaïa region (Algeria). Despite its ecological and socio-economic importance, the wetland is inadequately known as it is found in a biotope with an arid bioclimate amidst dune formations. This paper aims to describe the important nature of this wetland, assess its lithology, and map this location. Flora and avifauna inventories were conducted in the wetland to assess the studied site’s characteristic biodiversity. Vertical profiles from 0 to 90 cm deep were sampled. Fifty samples (50) taken from each soil profile were inspected for organic matter, electrical conductivity, pH, and texture characterization. Additional characteristics describing neighboring water samples, including dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, and pH, were also determined in situ. The census of bird and plant species revealed a biological richness, with 12 families of migratory birds and 21 botanical families identified. Soil granulometric analysis indicated a sandy-clay texture with little silt for the majority of the profiles. However, some profiles were marked by a sandy-clay-loamy texture. The assessment of spatial variation revealed a moderately alkaline soil pH, high electrical conductivity, and moderate organic matter content. Water samples were characterized by a strongly alkaline pH, slight salinity, and high dissolved oxygen rate. Positive and significant associations had been demonstrated among pH and Electrical conductivity values at all evaluated soil depths(p<0.001). Data also revealed an inverse relationship between the pH data of soil samples and electrical conductivity, independent of the soil horizon examined (p<0.01).

Background and Aims: Late detection is a critical factor related to high childhood cancer mortality in low- and middle-income countries. A previous study in Peru showed that DT (Diagnosis Time), the time interval between the onset of symptoms and the definitive diagnosis, was 107 days. A strategy with multiple interventions has been implemented to reduce DT as part of the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer. This study analyzes the reduction in the DT of childhood cancer in Peru in the last four years. Methods: Data of children and adolescents registered in the GICC hospital-based registry were retrospectively analyzed. Patients belonged to eleven hospitals nationwide. The association between clinical-demographic variables and DT was investigated. Other intervals analyzed were patient time (PT), medical time (MT), and treatment time (TT). Results: This study included 2,268 patients under the age of 20 registered between 2020 and 2023. The median DT was 26 days (IQR: 9–61), and the mean DT was 57 days (SD: 97.8; range: 0–962). Patients whose parents had lower educational levels, those aged 12 to 20 years, and those diagnosed with solid tumors had significantly longer DT. The median PT (time interval between the onset of symptoms until the first contact with a healthcare professional) was 19.5 days (IQR: 7-44), Early child education and primary educational level of parents was associated with longer PT. The median MT (time interval between the first contact with a healthcare professional and the definitive diagnosis) was 10 days (IQR:2-30). A comparative analysis of the data collected from 2012-2014, and the data collected in this study was made. The Kruskal-Wallis analysis showed a significant reduction in DT, mainly at the expense of MT between both periods (p<0.001), demonstrating the impact of the strategy on the interval that depends on healthcare professionals. The median TT (time interval between the definitive diagnosis of cancer until the start of treatment) was 8 days (IQR:1-19), with no significant reduction over time compared to the 2012–2014 period. Conclusions: Over the past four years, the early detection strategy has proven effective in reducing the DT of childhood cancer in Peru. This strategy should be incorporated into public policies to ensure its sustainability and the continuous improvement of outcomes.

Digital Twin (DT) technology has rapidly evolved, finding applications in critical sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and smart cities. However, its integration with legacy systems and IoT devices exposes significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities, including unauthorized data access, malicious tampering, and system intrusions. Traditional security solutions often fail to address these multifaceted challenges effectively. This paper introduces the Multi-Layer Encryption Validation and Execution System (MLEVES), a pioneering security framework designed to protect DT systems against advanced cyber threats. It employs a strong combination of multi layer encryption, dynamic validation processes, and secure execution mechanisms to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and reliability of data operations. It is particularly adept at countering threats such as privilege escalation, rogue device infiltration, and data extraction by creating multiple layers of defense that complement each other. The proposed system is meticulously evaluated for its effectiveness in mitigating these threats and its ability to seamlessly integrate into existing DT architectures. Through theoretical analysis and practical applications, this paper highlights the transformative potential of MLEVES to strengthen the security side of Digital Twin ecosystems. The adaptability of MLEVES across diverse sectors further underscores its importance as a critical component in the advancement of secure digital infrastructures.

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The Heartbeat Evoked Potential (HEP) is a potential marker of cardiac signal integration at the cerebral level, obtained by averaging epochs time-locked to the ECG R-peaks. The HEP is modulated across different experimental conditions with amplitude differences arising between 200 ms and 600 ms post-R-peak over fronto-central sites. However, substantial heterogeneity exists, and to date there is no clear characterization of the HEP. Here, we propose a two-component model of the HEP consisting of first, an early (100-250 ms) component presumed to index primary cardiac signal integration, thus being task independent; and second a late (250-500 ms) component thought to index elaborative processes, supposed to be modulated both within and between tasks. We aimed to first delineate these components together with their frequency characteristics at rest before exploring their modulation during an emotion task and a tactile stimulation protocol, using independent datasets for exploratory and reproducibility purposes, totaling 104 participants from different cultures. Our results revealed an early (100-250 ms) fronto-central negativity potentially associated with theta phase resetting, followed by a posterior positivity (250-500 ms). As expected, we did not observe any intra or inter-task modulation of the early component. However, contrary to our hypothesis, the late component was not modulated by task neither. This lack of task-related modulation in the late component contrasts with previous literature but appears robust given that our study design used multiple datasets, participants and experimental protocols. Our findings highlight the need for standardized methodologies in HEP research to improve reproducibility and enhance our understanding of cardiac-related neural processing.