Exploring Recent Advances in Medical Research: A Comprehensive Overview

The Role of Zinc in Psychosis: Impacts and Treatment Strategies

Zinc (Zn) is a trace element that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including immune function, neurotransmission, and apoptosis (Theleritis et al., 2025). Studies suggest that altered zinc homeostasis may contribute to psychotic disorders, particularly schizophrenia. It has been proposed that zinc deficiency can lead to abnormal glutamatergic neurotransmission, inflammation, and neurodegeneration, which are key factors in psychosis (Theleritis et al., 2025).

Research indicates that patients with schizophrenia often exhibit lower serum zinc levels compared to healthy controls (Theleritis et al., 2025). Various studies have demonstrated that zinc supplementation, both alone and in combination with vitamins C, E, and B6, may improve psychotic symptoms and enhance the efficacy of antipsychotic medications (Theleritis et al., 2025). For example, a double-blind placebo-controlled trial found that patients receiving risperidone in conjunction with zinc sulfate exhibited marked reductions in PANSS scores, suggesting a potential therapeutic role for zinc in managing schizophrenia (Theleritis et al., 2025).

Table 1: Summary of Studies Assessing Zinc Levels in Psychosis

Study	Participants	Findings
Pfeiffer et al.	43 patients with schizophrenia	Lower serum zinc levels compared to controls
Srinivasan et al.	85 controls	Significant reduction in serum zinc levels in patients with schizophrenia
Gillin et al.	31 patients	No significant difference in serum zinc levels
Vaddadi et al.	16 patients	Reduced serum zinc levels in treated patients
Tokdemir et al.	44 patients	Lower plasma zinc levels in criminal subjects

In conclusion, zinc’s potential as a biomarker and therapeutic agent in psychosis warrants further investigation. Future studies should focus on establishing optimal supplementation strategies and understanding the underlying mechanisms of zinc’s impact on neurotransmission and inflammation.

Importance of Phosphoric Acid in Urinary Stone Formation

Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) plays a vital role in the formation of urinary stones, particularly struvite stones, often associated with urinary tract infections. Research indicates that phosphoric acid can influence the nucleation and growth of calcium phosphates in urine, leading to the development of these stones (Unnamed Author, 2025).

A study aimed at understanding the effects of phosphoric acid on urinary stone formation found that increasing concentrations of phosphoric acid lower the initial pH of urine, thus promoting the precipitation of calcium phosphates (Unnamed Author, 2025). The study used spectrophotometric analysis to measure turbidity as an indicator of crystal formation, demonstrating that the presence of phosphoric acid can shift the pH at which crystals begin to form.

Table 2: Impact of Phosphoric Acid Concentration on Urinary Stone Formation

Phosphoric Acid Concentration (mM)	Initial pH	pH at Crystal Formation	Amount of Precipitate (mg)
0	6.19	7.1	0.15
30.45	4.49	6.9	0.14
43.05	3.02	6.5	0.12
59.84	2.44	6.3	0.10
82.66	2.22	6.25	0.09

These findings suggest that phosphoric acid not only lowers urine pH but also accelerates the formation of calcium phosphates, indicating a significant role in urinary stone pathogenesis.

Myelomatous Effusions in Multiple Myeloma: Case Insights

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy characterized by the accumulation of malignant plasma cells. Myelomatous pleural effusion (MPE) and pericardial effusion are rare but serious manifestations of this disease, often associated with poor prognosis. A notable case presented a 42-year-old female with sequential MPE and pericardial effusion, demonstrating the potential of novel therapies like teclistamab in extending survival (Mudawi et al., 2025).

After initial treatment with D-VRD and KPD-PACE, the patient experienced MPE leading to cardiac tamponade. Teclistamab therapy resulted in a complete metabolic response and prolonged remission, highlighting the evolving landscape of treatment options for extramedullary disease in MM (Mudawi et al., 2025).

Table 3: Key Findings from the Case of Myelomatous Effusions

Aspect	Details
Patient Age	42 years
Initial Diagnosis	IgG lambda multiple myeloma with extramedullary disease
First Treatment	D-VRD (partial response)
Second Treatment	KPD-PACE (no response)
Final Treatment	Teclistamab (complete response after 10 months)
Complications	Myelomatous pleural effusion and cardiac tamponade

This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing rare complications of multiple myeloma, as well as the potential of targeted therapies to improve outcomes in patients with advanced disease.

Advances in Computational Modelling of Biological Systems

Computational modeling of biological systems has significantly evolved over the past two decades, facilitating a deeper understanding of complex biological processes (Loewe et al., 2025). Recent advancements have enabled the development of personalized models, such as digital twins, which simulate individual patient responses and aid in the design of in silico clinical trials.

The integration of mechanistic and data-driven modeling approaches has become increasingly important, allowing researchers to capture the intricate interactions within biological systems and providing insights into potential therapeutic interventions. This shift from broad models of the human body to more focused disease-specific models reflects the growing recognition of inter-individual variability in response to treatments (Loewe et al., 2025).

Table 4: Comparison of Modeling Approaches in Biological Research

Modeling Approach	Characteristics	Applications
Mechanistic	Based on biological principles, detailed understanding of mechanisms	Basic research, hypothesis generation
Data-driven	Utilizes large datasets to identify patterns and correlations	Personalized medicine, predictive analytics

The ongoing integration of these modeling approaches holds promise for enhancing our understanding of physiology and disease mechanisms, ultimately leading to more effective treatment strategies.

Harnessing Microalgae for Sustainable Agriculture and Nutrient Removal

Microalgae have emerged as a promising solution for sustainable agriculture and wastewater treatment. The cultivation of microalgae, such as Scenedesmus sp., in dairy wastewater has shown significant potential for nutrient removal and biomass production (Unnamed Author, 2025). This approach not only addresses environmental concerns associated with agricultural runoff but also provides a renewable source of biofertilizers.

Research indicates that microalgal biomass can improve soil quality, enhance crop yields, and contribute to nutrient cycling in agricultural systems (Unnamed Author, 2025). The application of microalgae in agricultural settings demonstrates a dual benefit: it mitigates nutrient pollution while promoting sustainable farming practices.

Table 5: Nutrient Removal Efficiency of Microalgae in Dairy Wastewater

Treatment	Total Nitrogen Removal (%)	Total Phosphorus Removal (%)	Biomass Yield (g/L)
Control (BG11)	79	77	2.5
DIWW 80% + SW 20%	82	80	3.2

The incorporation of microalgae into agricultural practices represents a sustainable approach to nutrient management, contributing to both environmental conservation and food security.

FAQ Section

What role does zinc play in psychosis?
Zinc is essential for numerous physiological functions and has been implicated in psychiatric disorders. Studies indicate that zinc deficiency may contribute to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

How does phosphoric acid affect urinary stone formation?
Phosphoric acid can lower urine pH and promote the precipitation of calcium phosphates, leading to the formation of urinary stones, particularly struvite stones associated with urinary tract infections.

What are the implications of myelomatous effusions in multiple myeloma?
Myelomatous pleural and pericardial effusions are rare but indicate severe disease progression. They are associated with poor prognosis but may improve with novel therapies such as teclistamab.

How has computational modeling evolved in biological research?
Computational modeling has transitioned from broad human models to more personalized, disease-specific models, facilitating in silico trials and enhancing our understanding of individual patient responses.

What benefits do microalgae offer in agriculture?
Microalgae can effectively remove nutrients from wastewater and enhance soil quality, thus contributing to sustainable agriculture and improved crop yields.

References

Theleritis, C., Demetriou, M., Stefanou, M.-I., Alevyzakis, E., Makris, M., Zoumpourlis, V., Peppa, M., & Smyrnis, N. (2025). Zinc in psychosis (Review). Philos Trans A Math Phys Eng Sci. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1186/s40035-025-00484-7
Mudawi, D., Al-Mashdali, A. F., Tawalbeh, A., Szabados, L., Soliman, D. S., & Fareed, S. (2025). Sequential Myelomatous Pleural and Pericardial Effusions in Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report Demonstrating Extended Survival with Teclistamab. Case Rep Oncol
Unnamed Author. (2025). Phosphoric Acid Versus Biogenic Mineralization of Hydroxyapatite and Carbonate Apatite in Relation to Infection-Induced Urinary Stones: Physical, Chemical and Microbiological Aspects. Philos Trans A Math Phys Eng Sci. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1186/s40035-025-00484-7
Unnamed Author. (2025). Harnessing dairy wastewater to cultivate Scenedesmus sp. for biofertilizer applications in Phaseolus vulgaris L.: a sustainable agro-biotechnological approach. Front Plant Sci. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2025.1568057
Loewe, A., Hunter, P. J., & Kohl, P. (2025). Computational modelling of biological systems now and then: revisiting tools and visions from the beginning of the century. Philos Trans A Math Phys Eng Sci