Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) is a chronic, endemic osteoarthropathy characterized by progressive joint degeneration and deformity, frequently involving the knee and resulting in severe valgus alignment and functional impair...Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) is a chronic, endemic osteoarthropathy characterized by progressive joint degeneration and deformity, frequently involving the knee and resulting in severe valgus alignment and functional impairment. Conventional surgical management of severe valgus deformities, including the use of condylar constrained knee (CCK) or hinged knee (HK) prostheses, is often associated with increased surgical trauma, higher costs, and limited accessibility, particularly in resource-constrained settings. This study evaluates a surgical technique combining posterior-stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty with medial femoral condylar sliding osteotomy to address severe valgus deformities in KBD. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 10 patients (11 knees) treated between 2019 and 2023. Clinical outcomes were assessed using pain scores, functional scoring systems, range of motion measurements, and radiographic evaluation of alignment and prosthesis stability. Postoperative results demonstrated significant improvements in pain, knee function, and activity levels, along with restoration of limb alignment and stable prosthesis fixation. The osteotomy site achieved satisfactory bone healing in all cases. This combined technique provides effective deformity correction and joint stabilization while reducing the need for highly constrained implants, offering a simpler, reliable, and cost-effective alternative for managing KBD-associated knee deformities.
Laparoscopic hepatectomy is widely used for treating liver diseases, but achieving precise tumor resection with negative margins while preserving healthy liver parenchyma remains challenging. The Laennec's capsule approa...Laparoscopic hepatectomy is widely used for treating liver diseases, but achieving precise tumor resection with negative margins while preserving healthy liver parenchyma remains challenging. The Laennec's capsule approach has recently gained widespread use in liver surgery. This membrane facilitates perihepatic dissection, hepatic pedicle isolation, exposure of the hepatic veins, and anatomical hepatectomy. To address these difficulties, a technique combining Laennec's capsule dissection with indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence guidance has been introduced. In this approach, the gallbladder is first removed via the Laennec capsule, after which the first and second branches of the segment 6 pedicle and the segment 5 pedicle are exposed and dissected. Hepatectomy is then performed under the guidance of fluorescence imaging and ischemic demarcation lines. The patient recovered uneventfully: the drainage tube was removed after five days, and he was successfully discharged on postoperative day five. Overall, the combination of ICG fluorescence and the Laennec approach offers a safe and effective strategy for precise hepatectomy.
The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanism of olive oil-based lipid emulsions (OOLE) in mitigating immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-induced myocarditis triggered by ipilimum...The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanism of olive oil-based lipid emulsions (OOLE) in mitigating immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-induced myocarditis triggered by ipilimumab (IPI) and nivolumab (NIVO). An in vitro model of inflammatory cardiomyocytes was established by co-culturing HL-1 cells with CD4⁺/CD8⁺ T cells isolated from ICI-treated mice. Cells were treated with 10% OOLE, followed by flow cytometry for apoptosis, ELISA for cytokine profiling (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and Western blot/qPCR for pathway analysis (NF-κB, NLRP3, IL-1β). In vivo, myocarditis was induced in mice via IPI/NIVO administration. Cardiac function was assessed using echocardiography, and inflammatory markers were evaluated in serum and myocardial tissue. The results showed that OOLE significantly reduced T cell-induced apoptosis and suppressed inflammatory cytokine production in HL-1 cells, while the expression of NF-κB, NLRP3, and IL-1β was downregulated. In vivo., OOLE improved left ventricular functional parameters and attenuated systemic inflammation. Molecular analyses confirmed that these protective effects were mediated via the inhibition of the NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β signaling axis. In conclusion, OOLE mitigates acute ICI-induced myocarditis by targeting the NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β pathway, demonstrating its potential in suppressing early inflammatory cascades and providing rapid cardioprotection. These findings highlight its promise as an adjunctive therapy for immune-related cardiac injury.
Stroke is a disease with one of the highest disability rates, frequently associated with multiple functional impairments. Among these, dysphagia is a relatively common complication, with an incidence rate exceeding 30%....Stroke is a disease with one of the highest disability rates, frequently associated with multiple functional impairments. Among these, dysphagia is a relatively common complication, with an incidence rate exceeding 30%. PSD not only causes malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia but also prolongs hospital stays and severely compromises patients' quality of life. Both the "Opening the Orifices and Alleviating Throat Obstruction" four-step acupuncture technique (a TCM therapy) and motor imagery (MI) therapy are effective for PSD. However, the efficacy of combining this specific acupuncture technique with MI remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the safety and effectiveness of integrating the "Opening the Orifices and Alleviating Throat Obstruction" four-step acupuncture technique with MI therapy for PSD rehabilitation. Patients were randomized into two groups: the control group received standard rehabilitation, while the treatment group received the combined acupuncture and MI therapy in addition to standard care. Outcomes were assessed using the Water Swallowing Test (WST), Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS), and Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS). The results demonstrated that after 28 days of treatment, the WST and PAS scores decreased in both groups relative to pre-treatment levels, while the FOIS scores increased. Furthermore, the WST and PAS scores in the treatment group were lower than those in the control group, and the FOIS score was higher, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). The treatment group scored higher than the control group in three dimensions of the Nurse-Patient Satisfaction Nursing Scale (NPSNS): medical professional level, clinical treatment effect, and overall satisfaction. These differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were observed in the scores for the two dimensions of hardware environment configuration and medical service experience between the two groups (P > 0.05). These results highlight the efficacy of the combined treatment approach in enhancing swallowing function and minimizing leakage and aspiration.
Establishing reproducible murine tumor models is essential for evaluating cancer biology and immunotherapy strategies. Intratumoral immunotherapy treats established tumors with immune-stimulating reagents to reverse loca...Establishing reproducible murine tumor models is essential for evaluating cancer biology and immunotherapy strategies. Intratumoral immunotherapy treats established tumors with immune-stimulating reagents to reverse local immune suppression and stimulate systemic antitumor immunity. Most cancer studies in mice establish the tumors in the subcutaneous space, which has inherent challenges for experimental intratumoral immunotherapy due to the inability to visualize intratumoral injections. Intradermal injection of tumor cells provides a reliable approach to generate visualizable tumors that support accurate and reproducible intratumoral injection and monitoring of growth kinetics and therapeutic responses. Here, we present a reproducible methodology for establishing and treating intradermal tumors using the murine B16F10 melanoma model in C57BL/6 mice as our example. Tumor cell suspensions are injected intradermally, and 7-10 days after tumor implantation, once tumors reach ~60 mm, an intratumoral injection of immune-stimulating agents or a physical treatment like electroporation or heating can be directly applied. This allows precise delivery of treatments and measurement of tumor growth with calipers and avoids the challenge of the inherent variability of multiple treatments of subcutaneous tumors that cannot be visualized. By providing detailed insight into this technique, this article aims to support reproducibility and advance pre-clinical research in intratumoral immunotherapy.
Here, we present a protocol to acquire high resolution, extended depth of field images of insect specimens by photographic focus stacking using a modular digital imaging system. The method provides a standardized workflo...Here, we present a protocol to acquire high resolution, extended depth of field images of insect specimens by photographic focus stacking using a modular digital imaging system. The method provides a standardized workflow linking equipment assembly, calibration, image acquisition, and post processing. Using a full frame mirrorless camera (61 MP) coupled to microscope objectives and synchronized strobe illumination, the protocol achieves pixel scales from 0.76 m-0.19 m and produces artifact free composites through sub-micron focus increments (0.2 m). The procedure can capture and process approximately 20 final images per week under routine laboratory conditions. Compared with existing stacking solutions, this low-cost hybrid setup (< 30% of the cost of commercial systems) maximizes accessibility while maintaining diffraction limited image quality. Representative applications include the production of color calibrated identification plates for taxonomy, biodiversity digitization, and outreach. The protocol's standardized structure facilitates reproducibility across laboratories and field stations, supporting large scale insect imaging campaigns in both resource limited and institutional environments.
This protocol describes a hydrostatic pressure-loading device that facilitates real-time microscopic observation of adherent cells during sustained hydrostatic pressure stimulation, and is compatible with 3.5 cm commerci...This protocol describes a hydrostatic pressure-loading device that facilitates real-time microscopic observation of adherent cells during sustained hydrostatic pressure stimulation, and is compatible with 3.5 cm commercial cell culture dishes. The apparatus consists of an airtight culture chamber fabricated from an aluminum base, an optically transparent poly(methyl methacrylate) cover, gas inlet/outlet ports integrated into the cover, and a sealed observation window. By connecting to a regulated gas source, the device maintains a stable hydrostatic pressure (0-200 kPa, adjustable) while enabling continuous phase-contrast or fluorescence imaging. Using this pressure-loading device, pressure-induced dose-dependent effects on cell phenotype and behaviors, such as morphology, proliferation, and migration, can be recorded. Furthermore, fluorescent signals can also be recorded in real time. Here, pressure-triggered Ca signaling heterogeneity and dynamics in breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells and cervical cancer HeLa cells were observed and quantified by inverted fluorescence microscopy using time-lapse imaging. This platform integrates mechanical loading with live‑cell imaging to overcome limitations of conventional endpoint systems, providing a universal tool for mechanobiological studies.
The management of malocclusion during the mixed dentition is a crucial time for preventive and interceptive orthodontic intervention, given the complex interactions among craniofacial growth, tooth eruption, and orofacia...The management of malocclusion during the mixed dentition is a crucial time for preventive and interceptive orthodontic intervention, given the complex interactions among craniofacial growth, tooth eruption, and orofacial function. Despite widespread use of early orthodontic treatment, uncertainty still remains about the optimal timing, choice of appliance, and long-term stability. This review collates recent evidence and proposes a functional-preventive approach to managing malocclusion in the mixed dentition, emphasizing risk assessment, etiologic control, and individualized treatment planning rather than traditional appliance therapy. A structured literature search was performed across PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, including clinical trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews on epidemiology, diagnosis, prevention, and interceptive treatment. The existing evidence supports early treatment for certain conditions, such as functional crossbites, developing Class III malocclusion, transverse maxillary deficiency, and space loss due to premature tooth loss. On the other hand, early treatment of Class II malocclusion and vertical discrepancies remains debatable due to limited long-term benefit. Preventive measures like caries prevention, space maintenance, and myofunctional treatment play a critical role in treatment stability. Emerging technologies, such as digital diagnostics, artificial intelligence-assisted analysis, and airway assessment, may enhance patient selection and treatment precision, but their clinical use should be interpreted with caution. In summary, this review shows a shift towards interdisciplinary, evidence- and biology-based decision-making to achieve stable occlusal and balanced craniofacial development.
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a severe congenital heart defect characterized by underdevelopment of the left ventricle (LV), mitral valve, aortic valve, and ascending aorta. Based on the "no flow, no grow" th...Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a severe congenital heart defect characterized by underdevelopment of the left ventricle (LV), mitral valve, aortic valve, and ascending aorta. Based on the "no flow, no grow" theory, this protocol describes a reproducible fetal sheep model that restricts mitral inflow to impair LV growth in utero. At approximately 120 days of gestation, maternal laparotomy and hysterotomy are performed, followed by fetal left thoracotomy. A balloon catheter is introduced into the left atrium (LA), left deflated at surgery, and subsequently inflated beginning at approximately postoperative day 3 to restrict mitral inflow until antegrade flow in the ascending aorta is markedly reduced or abolished, as verified by a flow probe after maternal recovery. Hemodynamic changes are continuously monitored via fetal carotid arterial pressure and an ascending aortic flow probe. Fetuses are maintained for up to three weeks and undergo necropsy. Critical steps include atraumatic placement and securement of the aortic flow probe and the LA balloon in the fragile fetus, as well as meticulous prevention of amniotic fluid loss before and after uterine closure. This model provides a platform for investigating HLHS mechanisms, validating imaging biomarkers, evaluating prenatal or perinatal therapeutic interventions, and guiding the development of preventive strategies.
Ramadan fasting involves marked shifts in sleep-wake cycles, dietary habits, and daily routines, all of which may influence psychological well-being. Although Ramadan represents a naturalistic model of structured, time-r...Ramadan fasting involves marked shifts in sleep-wake cycles, dietary habits, and daily routines, all of which may influence psychological well-being. Although Ramadan represents a naturalistic model of structured, time-restricted fasting, limited research in Saudi Arabia has explored how sociodemographic factors shape mental health, sleep, and eating behaviors during this period. This study examined these outcomes in adults across multiple regions of the country. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in March 2025 among adults aged 18-60 years residing in Saudi Arabia who observed daytime fasting during Ramadan. A total of 464 participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated, culturally adapted questionnaire that assessed psychological well-being, sleep patterns, and eating behaviors. Analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression, with p < 0.05 as the significance threshold. Most respondents were female (56.5%) and aged 18-40 years (77.1%). Female sex was significantly associated with depressive feelings and reduced interest (p < 0.05) and independently predicted psychological distress (AOR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.08-1.72). Adults aged 26-39 and 40-60 years showed higher odds of sleep disturbance and altered eating behaviors (p < 0.05). Participants from the Eastern region demonstrated elevated odds of psychological distress (AOR = 1.80), sleep disturbances (AOR = 2.05), and changes in eating patterns (AOR = 1.50). Employment status was associated with daytime fatigue and non-hunger-driven eating patterns. Ramadan-related lifestyle changes are associated with measurable variations in psychological well-being, sleep quality, and eating behavior. Women, middle-aged adults, and residents of the eastern region appeared to be more vulnerable to these effects. Tailored public health strategies promoting mental health, sleep hygiene, and healthy eating during altered daily routines may help mitigate these impacts.
This study investigated the expression profiles of the HMGA1 and HAND1 genes in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) as well as in adjacent normal laryngeal mucosal tissues through the application of immunohistochemi...This study investigated the expression profiles of the HMGA1 and HAND1 genes in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) as well as in adjacent normal laryngeal mucosal tissues through the application of immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR methodologies. The objective was to investigate their possible roles in the initiation, advancement, invasion, and metastasis of LSCC. Both HMGA1 and HAND1 were detected in cancerous and adjacent normal tissues. Nevertheless, HMGA1 demonstrated a significantly elevated expression in LSCC tissues, while HAND1 displayed considerably reduced expression levels. Elevated HMGA1 expression was positively associated with lymph node metastasis (100.0% vs. 50.0%) and advanced clinical stage (91.7% vs. 44.4%), but was not associated with tumor histological grade, clinical type, or patient age. In contrast, reduced HAND1 protein expression was associated with lymph node metastasis, clinical stage, and pathological grade, suggesting a role in tumor progression and metastasis. Furthermore, a linear negative correlation was noted between the expressions of HMGA1 and HAND1, suggesting a potential regulatory interaction in which HMGA1 may suppress HAND1 expression. These results imply that HMGA1 and HAND1 have complementary functions in the pathogenesis of LSCC, with HMGA1 potentially facilitating tumor development and HAND1 serving as a suppressor. The interaction between these two genes may offer new perspectives on the molecular mechanisms that drive LSCC progression and metastasis.
Maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP) at a suitable and stable level is essential for ocular health. The biomechanical properties of the trabecular meshwork (TM), Schlemm's canal (SC), and the entire corneoscleral shell...Maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP) at a suitable and stable level is essential for ocular health. The biomechanical properties of the trabecular meshwork (TM), Schlemm's canal (SC), and the entire corneoscleral shell play a crucial role in IOP homeostasis. Outflow facility (C) is a key parameter for evaluating the effectiveness of TM and SC in draining aqueous humor, while ocular compliance (ϕ) reflects the elasticity of the corneoscleral shell and transient outflow through TM and SC. Previously, a simple, cost-effective syringe-pump system was developed to assess C. However, using simple linear regression for in vivo data analysis has limitations in characterizing TM and SC function. In this study, the syringe-pump system was optimized by applying analytical approaches developed for established pressure-controlled ocular perfusion systems. The measured C and ϕ values in ex vivo eyes were compared with previously published perfusion-system values and were consistent with those reported ranges. In summary, this straightforward, low-cost syringe-pump system facilitates the evaluation of the biomechanical properties of TM and SC.
This protocol describes a self-made multiring thread method to provide controlled internal traction during endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer. ESD is a minimally invasive treatment that enabl...This protocol describes a self-made multiring thread method to provide controlled internal traction during endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer. ESD is a minimally invasive treatment that enables en bloc resection; however, the procedure can be technically challenging when adequate visualization and access to the submucosal layer are limited. Conventional traction methods, such as the dental floss clip technique, may be hindered by interference with the endoscope and instability of clip attachment. To address these limitations, a multiring thread device was developed to enable stable and adjustable traction. The device allows precise control of traction direction and force without interfering with endoscope maneuverability. This protocol outlines the preparation and deployment of the multiring thread during the procedure. The method facilitates improved exposure of the submucosal layer, enhances procedural efficiency, and supports safe dissection. This approach provides a simple, cost-effective, and reproducible technique for improving outcomes in gastric ESD.
Quantitative, spatially resolved analysis of gene expression is essential for assessing cell-type-specific molecular profiles. In the Drosophila visual system, extensive genetic tools open a framework for direct evaluati...Quantitative, spatially resolved analysis of gene expression is essential for assessing cell-type-specific molecular profiles. In the Drosophila visual system, extensive genetic tools open a framework for direct evaluation of both RNA and protein levels in defined neuronal populations. Here, we present a step-by-step protocol that combines expansion-assisted HCR-smFISH (hybridization chain reaction single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization) with immunohistochemistry to enable quantitative analysis of cell-type-specific molecular profiles in genetically defined visual system neuronal types. The workflow is optimized for cells labeled with nuclear-localized or membrane-bound markers, allowing measurement of transcript and protein levels in the same neurons. Following tissue expansion, samples are imaged using light-sheet microscopy for rapid volumetric acquisition, with an alternative mounting and imaging workflow demonstrated for standard inverted laser scanning and spinning disc confocal microscopes. We further provide an automated segmentation algorithm that distinguishes nuclear and cytoplasmic transcripts, enabling analyses of transcriptional state and subcellular RNA localization. Practical guidance is provided on experimental parameters and common pitfalls affecting signal quality, tissue integrity, and quantitative performance. Representative applications include validation of cell-type-specific RNA interference by quantifying corresponding changes in RNA and protein levels. By enabling integrated RNA- and protein-level measurements with cell-type specificity, this approach provides a scalable strategy for hypothesis-driven molecular analysis and, in targeted contexts, a practical alternative to single-cell transcriptomic assays. This protocol provides a practical approach for validating cell-type-specific molecular perturbations while preserving the anatomical context of the intact Drosophila brain.
Behavior guidance is recommended as a core component of pediatric dentistry, yet the effectiveness of specific non-pharmacological techniques for autistic patients has not been systematically quantified. The researchers...Behavior guidance is recommended as a core component of pediatric dentistry, yet the effectiveness of specific non-pharmacological techniques for autistic patients has not been systematically quantified. The researchers systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, and AMED for randomized controlled trials of non-pharmacological behavior guidance techniques in autistic children undergoing dental procedures. Eligible studies enrolled children with a clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and compared a structured behavior guidance strategy with routine behavior management or another guidance technique, and reported anxiety and/or cooperation outcomes using validated measures. Electronic searches identified 1,242 records; after deduplication, 487 titles and abstracts were screened, 9 full texts were assessed, and 5 trials (n = 445; sample size 19-162) were included. All were conducted in specialist pediatric dental services and focused on non- or minimally invasive procedures, including examination, prophylaxis, and fluoride application. Interventions comprised a multisensory sensory-adapted dental environment, visual pedagogy, electronic media-based guidance (video modeling and video goggles), and immersive virtual reality. Owing to heterogeneity, quantitative synthesis was feasible for only two VR trials that reported Frankl Behavior Rating Scale scores. In the larger parallel-group RCT, VR improved cooperation versus conventional care (mean difference [MD] 0.55, 95% CI 0.23-0.88); the smaller crossover study showed a similar direction (MD 0.39, 95% CI -0.35 to 1.13). Pooled in a fixed-effect model, VR was associated with a moderate improvement of about half a Frankl point (pooled MD 0.52, 95% CI 0.22-0.82). Non-pharmacological behavior guidance techniques may improve clinically relevant outcomes in autistic children during routine dental care. However, pooled quantitative evidence in the present review was available only for virtual reality-related improvements in cooperation, whereas evidence for other techniques, including sensory-adapted environments, remained limited and was based primarily on narrative synthesis.
Secondary complications following moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI)-including elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), post-traumatic seizures, trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC), and sepsis-substantially worse...Secondary complications following moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI)-including elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), post-traumatic seizures, trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC), and sepsis-substantially worsen patient prognosis. Current prognostic tools estimate overall mortality and disability at admission but do not predict specific, treatable complications during hospitalization. This narrative review evaluates whether AI-based prediction tools can address this unmet clinical need, appraises the maturity of evidence across five prediction domains, and identifies priorities for future research. A targeted literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from January 2016-October 2025, supplemented by manual reference tracking. Studies were selected based on their relevance to AI or machine learning (ML) for predicting secondary complications or clinical outcomes in TBI patients. AI-based models achieve moderate predictive accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] of 0.70-0.79) to good accuracy (AUC ≥ 0.80) for ICP crises, TIC, sepsis, and mortality. Seizure prediction has the least mature evidence, with no external validation studies. ICP prediction has the strongest evidence base, with external validation and independent replication. Mortality prediction has the largest evidence volume, with international multi-dataset validation. Critical methodological limitations persist: most models derive from retrospective, single-institution data; only approximately one-third have undergone external validation; and no randomized trials have demonstrated that AI-guided decisions improve patient outcomes. AI prediction tools show promise for forecasting secondary TBI complications, but current evidence does not support routine clinical implementation. Before adoption, these tools require rigorous external validation, prospective outcome trials, and systematic equity assessment across diverse populations.
Cellular senescence is a stress-induced state characterized by permanent cell-cycle arrest and the development of a distinctive secretory profile that impacts tissue function and contributes to aging and metabolic diseas...Cellular senescence is a stress-induced state characterized by permanent cell-cycle arrest and the development of a distinctive secretory profile that impacts tissue function and contributes to aging and metabolic disease. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity is widely used as a marker of senescent cells; however, conventional SA-β-gal assays often rely on subjective visual assessment and provide limited quantitative information. These limitations are particularly evident in primary human cell populations such as the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) derived from adipose tissue, which contains a heterogeneous mixture of preadipocytes, immune cells, and endothelial cells. Here, we present an optimized reflected light confocal microscopy approach for high-resolution, quantitative detection of SA-β-gal activity in human SVF cells. This protocol enables objective single-cell analysis of SA-β-gal activity, allows simultaneous immunocytochemistry for multiplexed detection of additional senescence or lineage markers, and incorporates pH-matched controls. By combining these features, this method provides a sensitive, reproducible, and quantitative approach to studying cellular senescence in heterogeneous primary human cell populations. It offers an improved alternative to conventional SA-β-gal staining.
Super-resolution microscopy has dramatically advanced our ability to interrogate biological structures beyond the diffraction limit, making it indispensable for studying densely packed nuclear structures such as chromati...Super-resolution microscopy has dramatically advanced our ability to interrogate biological structures beyond the diffraction limit, making it indispensable for studying densely packed nuclear structures such as chromatin, nuclear lamina and nuclear bodies such as nucleoli. Chromatin exhibits multiscale organization-from nanometer-sized nucleosomes to micron-scale domains-necessitating imaging approaches capable of both high resolution and molecular specificity. Single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM), particularly stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) , enables precise mapping of epigenetic marks, offering critical insight into chromatin structure and function. However, multi-label imaging in the nuclear environment presents unique challenges, including reduced antibody accessibility, increased non-specific binding, and fluorophore instability. To address these issues, we present a sequential immunolabeling protocol optimized for high-density nuclear environments, enabling robust three-color SMLM with minimal crosstalk and less signal degradation. This method includes optimized buffer formulations, fluorophore selection, and antibody validation strategies to ensure reproducible, high-fidelity labeling across multiple targets. Importantly, we integrate this protocol with a computational analysis pipeline that leverages localizations from one molecular target as spatial anchors (seed points) to quantify inter-target distances, local densities, and multi-label co-affinity. This allows for a detailed spatial analysis of chromatin components at the nanoscale. This protocol serves as a reproducible framework for multi-component imaging and quantitative analysis in dense subcellular environments, offering a powerful tool for researchers investigating complex nuclear architectures like chromatin.
This study proposes a novel framework for network security situational awareness and risk warning in cloud computing environments, integrating adaptive Machine Learning (ML), Hierarchical Multi-Label Classification (HMC)...This study proposes a novel framework for network security situational awareness and risk warning in cloud computing environments, integrating adaptive Machine Learning (ML), Hierarchical Multi-Label Classification (HMC), and a dynamic trust evaluation mechanism based on the cloud model. The complexity, diversity, and real-time nature of emerging cyberattacks-such as zero-day exploits, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS), and botnets-pose significant challenges to traditional rule-based and static detection methods. To address these challenges, we developed an effective SDN-based cloud architecture utilizing the Ryu OpenFlow controller and OpenFlow switches. This architecture enables real-time link information collection, dynamic scheduling, and scalable, reliable data transmission. The hierarchical classification framework suggested can break multiclass problems into binary tasks, alleviating the effect of sample imbalance and enhancing the recognition of low-frequency attacks, including User to Root (U2R). Ensemble learning techniques, including AdaBoost and Bagging, further enhance detection accuracy for fine-grained attack types. Experiments conducted on DDoS datasets, cloud traffic data, and simulations in Mininet and EstiNet demonstrate that the combined ML-HMC-trust approach significantly improves detection precision, reduces false positives, and enables real-time response. These results confirm that integrating adaptive learning, hierarchical classification, and dynamic trust evaluation provides a robust and scalable solution for securing large-scale cloud platforms.
The objective of this protocol was to evaluate perioperative clinical outcomes associated with short-course preoperative tamsulosin administration in elderly patients undergoing ureteroscopic holmium:YAG laser lithotrips...The objective of this protocol was to evaluate perioperative clinical outcomes associated with short-course preoperative tamsulosin administration in elderly patients undergoing ureteroscopic holmium:YAG laser lithotripsy for ureteral stones. Medical records of patients aged ≥ 60 years were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were categorized into a preoperative tamsulosin group and a control group based on documented medication exposure prior to surgery. Baseline demographic and stone characteristics were comparable between groups. Comparative analysis showed that operative duration was shorter, the need for ureteral dilation was lower, postoperative inflammatory response was reduced, hospitalization was shorter, and stone-free rates at short-term follow-up were higher in the tamsulosin group. These differences were observed when comparing patients who received preoperative tamsulosin with those who did not receive α-blocker therapy. Postoperative complications occurred less frequently in the tamsulosin group, although several differences did not reach statistical significance, and no treatment-related serious adverse effects were observed. These observations indicate a potential association between preoperative tamsulosin use and improved procedural efficiency. This approach may provide a simple pharmacologic strategy to facilitate ureteroscopic access and perioperative recovery in appropriately selected elderly patients. However, due to the retrospective design, single-center setting, limited sample size, and short follow-up duration, causal relationships and long-term safety cannot be established. Prospective multicenter randomized studies are required to confirm these findings and further define the role of routine preoperative tamsulosin in geriatric ureteroscopic management.