bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mitochondria as a potential therapeutic target in cerebral I/R injury
Authors: Fang Susu , Huang Wenzhou , Qu Xinhui , Chai Wen
Published: January 2025

Ischemic stroke is a major cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Among patients with ischemic stroke, the primary treatment goal is to reduce acute cerebral ischemic injury and limit the infarct size in a timely manner by ensuring effective cerebral reperfusion through the administration of either intravenous thrombolysis or endovascular therapy. However, reperfusion can induce neuronal death, known as cerebral reperfusion injury, for which effective therapies are lacking. Accumulating data supports a paradigm whereby cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is coupled with impaired mitochondrial function, contributing to the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. Herein, we review recent evidence demonstrating a heterogeneous mitochondrial response following cerebral I/R injury, placing a specific focus on mitochondrial protein modifications, reactive oxygen species, calcium (Ca2+), inflammation, and quality control under experimental conditions using animal models.
High spatial resolution gene expression profiling and characterization of neuroblasts migrating in the peri-injured cortex using photo-isolation chemistry
Authors: Miyamoto Takuya , Kuboyama Kazuya , Honda Mizuki , Ohkawa Yasuyuki , Oki Shinya , Sawamoto Kazunobu
Published: January 2025

In the ventricular-subventricular-zone (V-SVZ) of the postnatal mammalian brain, immature neurons (neuroblasts) are generated from neural stem cells throughout their lifetime. These V-SVZ-derived neuroblasts normally migrate to the olfactory bulb through the rostral migratory stream, differentiate into interneurons, and are integrated into the preexisting olfactory circuit. When the brain is injured, some neuroblasts initiate migration toward the lesion and attempt to repair the damaged neuronal circuitry, but their low regeneration efficiency prevents functional recovery. Elucidation of the molecular basis of neuroblast migration toward lesions is expected to lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for brain regenerative medicine. Here, we show gene expression profiles of neuroblasts migrating in the peri-injured cortex compared with those migrating in the V-SVZ using photo-isolation chemistry, a method for spatial transcriptome analysis. Differentially expressed gene analysis showed that the expression levels of 215 genes (97 upregulated and 118 downregulated genes) were significantly different in neuroblasts migrating in the peri-injured cortex from those migrating in the V-SVZ. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that in neuroblasts migrating in the peri-injured cortex, expression of genes involved in regulating migration direction and preventing cell death was upregulated, while the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation and maintenance of the immature state was downregulated. Indeed, neuroblasts migrating in the peri-injured cortex had significantly lower Cyclin D2 mRNA and Ki67 protein expression levels than those in the V-SVZ. In the injured brain, amoeboid microglia/macrophages expressed transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and neuroblasts migrating in the peri-injured cortex expressed TGF-β receptors. Experiments using primary cultured neuroblasts showed that application of TGF-β significantly decreased proliferating cells labeled with BrdU. These data suggest that the proliferative activity of neuroblasts migrating toward lesions is suppressed by TGF-β secreted from cells surrounding the lesion. This is the first comprehensive study characterizing the gene expression profiles of neuroblasts migrating in the peri-injured cortex.
Alzheimer’s disease and infectious agents: a comprehensive review of pathogenic mechanisms and microRNA roles
Authors: Hosseininasab Seyyed Sam Mehdi , Ebrahimi Rasoul , Yaghoobpoor Shirin , Kazemi Kiarash , Khakpour Yaser , Hajibeygi Ramtin , Mohamadkhani Ashraf , Fathi Mobina , Vakili Kimia , Tavasol Arian , Tutunchian Zohreh , Fazel Tara , Fathi Mohammad , Hajiesmaeili Mohammadreza
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most prevalent type of dementia and is characterized by the presence of senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. There are various theories concerning the causes of AD, but the connection between viral and bacterial infections and their potential role in the pathogenesis of AD has become a fascinating area of research for the field. Various viruses such as Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), influenza viruses, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), as well as bacteria such as Chlamydia pneumoniae (CP), Helicobacter pylori (HP), Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), Spirochetes and eukaryotic unicellular parasites (e.g., Toxoplasma gondii), have been linked to AD due to their ability to activate the immune system, induce inflammation and increase oxidative stress, thereby leading to cognitive decline and AD. In addition, microRNAs (miRNAs) might play a crucial role in the pathogenesis mechanisms of these pathogens since they are utilized to target various protein-coding genes, allowing for immune evasion, maintaining latency, and suppressing cellular signaling molecules. Also, they can regulate gene expression in human cells. This article provides an overview of the association between AD and various infectious agents, with a focus on the mechanisms by which these pathogens may be related to the pathogenesis of AD. These findings suggest important areas for further research to be explored in future studies.
Cortical thickness correlated with peripheral inflammatory cytokines in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Yang Jing , Li Wenyi , Tian Mei , Zhang Lei , Du Fengping , Li Xin , Liu Qi , Li Rui , Li Zhenzhong , Dong Hui , Liu Yaling
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, devastating neurodegenerative disease that affects upper and lower motor neurons, resulting in muscle atrophy, spasticity, hyperreflexia, and paralysis. Inflammation plays an important role in the development of ALS, and associated with rapid disease progression. Current observational studies indicate the thinning of cortical thickness in patients with ALS is associated with rapid disease progression and cognitive changes. However, the effects of inflammatory cytokines on cortical thickness in patients with ALS are unclear. Here, we investigated the relationship between inflammatory cytokines and cortical thickness in patients with ALS.

Methods

We evaluated 51 patients with ALS for inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-4, interferon (IFN)-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-5, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-6, IL-10, IL-8, IL-17, and IFN-γ and analyzed the correlation between these indicators and the ALS functional rating scale-revised (ALSFRS-R) score or disease progression rate (ΔFS score). Twenty-six patients with ALS and 26 controls were studied using whole-cortex analysis, and post-hoc analyses were performed to examine the correlation between brain cortical thickness and ALSFRS-R or ΔFS scores.

Results

IL-4, IFN-α, IL-1β, and IL-2 levels were significantly correlated with ALSFRS-R scores, and the IL-2 level was significantly correlated with ΔFS scores. After controlling for age and sex, the ALS group had thinner cortexes in multiple clusters across the brain than the control group. Further analyses revealed that cortical thickness in the right superior temporal and lingual gyrus regions was inversely correlated with ΔFS scores. There was a significant positive correlation between the clusters in the right lingual cortex and IL-2 level.

Conclusion

These results suggest cortical thickness was reduced in patients with ALS in motor and non-motor cortical areas. Inflammatory factors (especially IL-2) were correlated with cortical thickness, and both were related to the disease progression rate, suggesting IL-2 plays an important role in ALS.
Liquidus curve of uranium–plutonium mixed oxide (MOX) system
Authors: Burakovsky Leonid , Preston Dean L. , Green Andrew A.
Published: January 2025

Mixed oxides of uranium and plutonium (MOX) are currently considered reference fuels for the new generation of fast breeder reactors such as ASTRID. The key factor determining the performance and safety of fuel such as MOX is its operational limits in applied practice, which are closely related to the material’s structure and thermodynamic stability. They are, in turn, closely related to the ambient (zero pressure) melting point (Tm); thus, Tm is an important engineering parameter. However, the current knowledge of Tm of MOX is limited and controversial, as several reported studies do not converge on the unique behavior of Tm as a function of x. In this study, we present a theoretical model for the melting curve (liquidus) of a mixture and apply it to MOX considered a mixture of pure UO2 and PuO2. The model uses the known melting curves of pure constituents as an input and predicts the melting curve of their mixture. It has only one free parameter, which must be determined independently. In the case of MOX, Tm of MOX as a function of x as given by the model has a local minimum at x≈0.64, which disagrees slightly with our previous ab initio molecular dynamics studies that place this minimum at x=0.7.
The simplified GLIM criteria for assessment of malnutrition and its correlation with clinical outcomes in Crohn’s disease patients
Authors: Song Xiaomei , Zhou Xiaoxin , Wang Hao , Guo Hong , Yang Jian
Published: January 2025

Objective

Patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) commonly experience malnutrition. The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria, a novel approach to assessing malnutrition, has been validated in some diseases. However, there are limited studies in CD patients. This study aimed to investigate the applicability and effectiveness of the simplified GLIM criteria for evaluating the nutritional status of patients with Crohn’s disease. Additionally, it sought to evaluate the correlation between malnutrition defined by simplified GLIM and clinical outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 386 patients with CD. Data were extracted from the medical records, including demographic and clinical characteristics. All patients were evaluated using the simplified GLIM criteria. The prevalence of malnutrition was reported and the relationship between malnutrition and clinical outcome was analyzed.

Results

The prevalence of malnutrition among patients with CD was 73.6%, with 36.5% classified as moderate malnutrition and 37.0% classified as severe malnutrition. The malnourished group had significantly higher Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) scores compared to the non-malnourished group (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the malnutrition group exhibited significantly lower levels of specific nutritional indicators, including hemoglobin (p = 0.040), albumin (p = 0.015), and prealbumin (p = 0.021). The median duration of follow-up in the cohort was 15.2 weeks. The results indicated that malnutrition, as assessed by simplified GLIM, independently influenced endoscopic remission (p = 0.033). Additionally, the duration of disease (p = 0.021), C-reactive protein (p = 0.014) and prealbumin (p = 0.014) were independent factors influencing endoscopic remission in patients with CD.

Conclusion

Malnutrition identified using the simplified GLIM criteria is associated with age, CDAI, behavior, hemoglobin, and albumin, providing prognostic value for endoscopic remission in CD patients.
Prevalence of, and factors associated with, sarcopenia in Iran: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Marzban Abbas Abadi Mobin , Hosseinzade Danial , Khalilizad Majid
Published: January 2025

Background

Several studies have assessed the epidemiology of sarcopenia in Iran with conflicting results, but comprehensive information has remained limited. Therefore, we aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of sarcopenia and its associated factors among Iranian population.

Methods

We searched in Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, as well as Persian databases including the Scientific Information Database and Magiran, from inception to 31 May 2024. We included cross-sectional observational studies reporting the prevalence rate of, and/or factors associated with, sarcopenia in Iranian population. The pooled prevalence of sarcopenia was estimated using a random-effects model.

Results

Totally, 14 eligible studies were included. The overall pooled prevalence of sarcopenia in Iran was 22.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.7–25.6). This rate in older adult population (≥60 years) was 23.5% (95% CI: 17.9–29.0). Sarcopenia was more prevalent in men (23.2% [95% CI: 21.3–25.1]) than in women (15.5% [95% CI: 9.2–21.9]). The prevalence of severe sarcopenia was 24.5% (95% CI: 16.9–32.0). Factors associated with an increased risk of sarcopenia included older age, male gender, higher body fat, lower socioeconomic status, lower education, insufficient physical activity, diabetes, smoking, and malnutrition; conversely, dietary patterns rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients, Mediterranean diet adherence, and higher mineral and vitamin intake were associated with a lower likelihood of sarcopenia.

Conclusion

The prevalence of sarcopenia is notably high in Iran, particularly among men and older ages. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions in nutrition and lifestyle to reduce sarcopenia risk and improve quality of life among Iranians.
Mala flavor preference increases risk of excessive gestational weight gain mediated by high-carbohydrate dietary patterns in Chongqing, China: an ambispective cohort study
Authors: Li Jinghua , Wang Difei , Mao Yanyan , Zhang Wuxia , Zhu Qianxi , Liu Jun , Du Jing , Zhou Weijin , Wang Fen , Li Min
Published: January 2025

Taste preference drives food selection, acceptance, or rejection and influences nutritional status and body mass index. Nevertheless, there are few reports concerning pregnant women. Mala flavor, characterized by its “numbing” and “spicy” sensations, is a distinctive taste of Sichuan cuisine, created by the combination of Chinese prickly ash and chili peppers. We conducted a cohort study in Chongqing, China to analyze the impact of Mala flavor, on excessive gestational weight gain (GWG). The study included 495 pregnant women aged 20–45 years, without chronic diseases, who conceived naturally and had single pregnancies from May 2021 to November 2022. Demographic information and pregnancy outcomes were collected during the second trimester and post-delivery, respectively. Food intake and taste preferences, including fatty, salty, and Mala flavors, were assessed during the third trimester. Latent Profile Analysis revealed three dietary patterns: “high-carbohydrate diet” (HCD), “low-carbohydrate diet” (LND), and “moderate nutrient diet” (MND). Multiple logistic regression indicated that pregnant women preferring Mala flavor were more likely to follow an HCD and had a higher risk of excessive GWG. Moreover, those adhering to an HCD were at an increased risk of excessive GWG. Mediation analysis showed that the preference for Mala flavor influenced excessive GWG through HCDs, with a significant indirect effect and an insignificant direct effect. Our study suggests that a preference for Mala flavor is positively associated with excessive GWG, mediated by HCD patterns. However, these findings should be approached with caution due to the exploratory nature of the study.
Composite dietary antioxidant index is inversely and nonlinearly associated with cardiovascular disease, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and cardiovascular mortality in people with dyslipidemia: evidence from NHANES 2001–2018
Authors: Jiang Yan , Shen Yingying
Published: January 2025

Background

Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD). The composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI), an emerging measure of combined dietary antioxidant exposure, may provide insights into the relationship between diet and CVD/ASCVD outcomes. We aimed to explore the association between CDAI and the prevalence of CVD/ASCVD, as well as CVD mortality in individuals with dyslipidemia.

Methods

CDAI was assessed by integrating dietary vitamins A, C, E, zinc, selenium, and carotenoids. Dyslipidemia was diagnosed according to widely established criteria. Data on CVD/ASCVD were obtained through self-reports, while CVD mortality was obtained through prospective matching participant records with the National Death Index database. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were used to explore these associations and to calculate odds ratios [OR], hazard ratios [HR], and 95% confidence intervals [CI], respectively.

Results

A total of 23,126 participants with dyslipidemia from NHANES 2001–2018 were included. After adjusting for potential confounders, CDAI was inversely associated with the prevalence of both CVD and ASCVD in dyslipidemia populations (OR and 95% CI 0.979 (0.964, 0.995) and 0.977 (0.961, 0.993), respectively). Similar associations were observed between CDAI and specific types of CVD. CDAI was also inversely associated with CVD mortality in dyslipidemia participants (HR = 0.957, 95% CI = 0.939–0.976, p < 0.0001). Restricted cubic spline and threshold effects analyses indicated that CDAI was nonlinearly associated with CVD/ASCVD, with significant associations occurring only when CDAI≤0; however, the association of CDAI with CVD mortality was observed only when CDAI > −2. Furthermore, age, sex, and drinking were found to modify the association of CDAI with CVD/ASCVD, while body mass index influenced the relationship between CDAI and CVD mortality.

Conclusion

CDAI was inversely and nonlinearly associated with both CVD/ASCVD events and CVD mortality in dyslipidemic populations. These findings highlight the potential of antioxidant dietary patterns to alleviate the CVD burden in these populations and underscore the importance of personalized strategies.
Association of dietary decanoic acid intake with diabetes or prediabetes: an analysis from NHANES 2005–2016
Authors: Zhu Huangxin , Fu Qingan , Chen Ruxin , Luo Linfei , Yu Miao , Zhou Yue
Published: January 2025

Background

With the increasing prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes, exploring dietary factors associated with prediabetes and diabetes has become a global health research priority. This study aimed to assess the relationship between dietary decanoic acid (DDA) intake and the risk of diabetes and prediabetes.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2016 included 11,477 adult participants. DDA intake was assessed through two 24-h dietary recalls and participants were grouped according to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes and prediabetes. Multivariate regression models were applied to analyze the relationship between DDA intake and diabetes and prediabetes, with subgroup analyses conducted to explore potential interactions.

Results

Dietary decanoic acid intake was significantly negatively associated with the risk of diabetes. In the fully adjusted model, each 1 g/day increase in DDA intake was associated with a 19% reduction in the odds of developing diabetes from prediabetes (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.68–0.96, p = 0.015) and this negative association was more pronounced in individuals with higher education level (P for interaction = 0.006). Compared with the DDA intake ≤0.18 g/day, DDA intake >0.58 g/day is related to reduced risk of progression to diabetes in prediabetic patients. However, the relationship between DDA intake and the risk of prediabetes was not statistically significant in the fully adjusted model (OR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.84–1.07, p = 0.404).

Conclusion

This study found that higher DDA intake may be associated with lower prevalence of diabetes among prediabetic population, and high education level strengthen this relationship.
Efficacy of fermented foods in irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ding Liang , Duan Jinnan , Yang Tao , Yuan Mengping , Ma A. Huo , Qin Yuehua
Published: January 2025

Objective

Fermented foods (FFs) may theoretically benefit irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, but the role of FFs for IBS patients in the real world is inconsistent and has not been systematically assessed. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine this issue.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were searched up to August 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of FFs in IBS were eligible for the analysis. Two authors independently screened studies and extracted data. Data were pooled using relative risk (RR) of dichotomous data and standardized mean difference (SMD) for continuous data.

Results

A total of 16 RCTs with 1,264 IBS patients were included. There were 12 RCTs involving 975 patients providing primary outcomes which was defined as symptom relief. The proportion of symptom relief was associated with the administration of FFs (RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.04–1.42, p = 0.01, I2 = 0%). For secondary outcomes, FFs also exerted a beneficial effect on global symptoms scores (SMD = −0.15; 95% CI −0.29 to −0.02, p = 0.02, I2 = 46%), but no significant improvement on abdominal pain scores and bloating scores. Subgroup analysis showed that fermented milk had a beneficial effect on symptom relief (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.39, p = 0.04, I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

Fermented foods, especially fermented milk with probiotics properties, appear to be efficacious in irritable bowel syndrome. However, given the limitations of current evidence, this conclusion should be interpreted with caution.

Systematic Review Registration

This study was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) as CRD42024576608.
The relationship between anthropometric indices and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Radmehr Mina , Homayounfar Reza , Djazayery Abolghasem
Published: January 2025

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a widespread liver condition associated with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases, yet public awareness remains low. Early detection of risk factors is crucial, but liver biopsy, the diagnostic gold standard, is invasive and costly. Non-invasive anthropometric indices provide a safer alternative. This study examines these indices to identify the most reliable predictor of NAFLD in adults.

Methods

In the present cross-sectional study, we used the Fasa Cohort Data, conducted on about 10,000 people, of whom 1,047 were diagnosed with NAFLD. NAFLD diagnosis in this study was confirmed by physicians based on medical history and ultrasonographic evaluations, ensuring accurate and reliable identification of cases. General, anthropometric, and dietary assessments were performed using interviews, tools, and valid questionnaires. Biochemical evaluation was also done. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), Body mass index (BMI), a body shape index (ABSI), body roundness index (BRI), and visceral fat index (VAI) were also calculated using these measurements and formulas. This study used descriptive tests, binary logistic regression, and ROC curve analysis.

Results

In both crude and adjusted models, significant associations were found between WHR, WHtR, BMI, and VAI with NAFLD. ROC analysis revealed that WHtR and BMI were the most accurate predictors of NAFLD in both genders (WHtR: men AUC = 0.750, women AUC = 0.702; BMI: men AUC = 0.754, women AUC = 0.701). BRI showed significant accuracy, but WHR (men: AUC = 0.727, women: AUC = 0.640) and VAI (men: AUC = 0.621, women: AUC = 0.622) were less effective. ABSI demonstrated poor predictive power (men: AUC = 0.530, women: AUC = 0.505) and is not recommended for NAFLD prediction.

Conclusion

Based on the findings, BMI and WHtR emerge as the most practical and accessible indicators for early screening of NAFLD in both men and women, while ABSI shows minor effectiveness in identifying the disease.
Impact of mask wearing time on fluid consumption and physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zaplatosch Mitchell E. , Butts Cory L. , Scarneo-Miller Samantha E. , Adams William M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To examine the associations between mask-wearing on fluid consumption and physical activity behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

137 college students (female, 72.5%; age, 26 ± 9 y) completed a survey detailing their fluid intake, physical activity behaviors, and time spent wearing a mask throughout the day during the previous month in the Fall 2020 academic semester.

Results

Increased daily mask wearing time was not associated with total fluid intake (p > 0.05). Participants had greater odds of being ‘somewhat active’ compared to ‘inactive’ with an increase in mask wearing time (OR = 1.23 [1.03, 1.47], p = 0.022).

Conclusion

Wearing a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic did not influence fluid intake behaviors, however, it increased the likelihood of reported greater levels of physical activity. These factors may be related to an individual being more likely to globally adopt healthier behaviors, however, this needs further exploration.
Aplastic anemia in a patient with papillary thyroid carcinoma complicated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: a case report
Authors: Wu Fei , Xiao Yiwei , Hai Rui , Chen Xiaodong , Liu Shanshan , Zhou Xiangyu
Published: January 2025

Background

It is uncommon to come across instances of aplastic anemia in individuals suffering from papillary thyroid carcinoma complicated by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Here, a unique case is presented.

Case presentation

A 23-year-old male was admitted to the hospital for “a lump in his right neck”. Laboratory tests revealed a decrease in white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), and platelet count (PLT). Bone marrow aspiration revealed an extremely low degree of hyperplasia of hematopoietic cells. Simultaneously, the levels of thyroglobulin antibodies and thyroid peroxidase antibodies were significantly elevated. Neck ultrasound findings revealed nodules in both lobes of the thyroid. Moreover, fine-needle aspiration biopsy indicated the atypical presence of proliferative thyroid epithelial cells. Even after implementing various treatments hematopoietic function could not be restored. However, following a surgery, the patient’s WBC, RBC, and platelet counts gradually returned to normal.

Conclusions

Here, we present a case that thyroid cancer complicated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may affect hematopoietic function.
The efficacy and safety of CD7 chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for hematologic malignancies: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Jile , An Yuxin , Sun Rui , Zhang Xiaomei , Guo Shujing , Gao Xuejin , Zhao Mingfeng
Published: January 2025

Introduction

CD7 chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T cell) therapy is an emerging method for treating hematological malignancies, and is another breakthrough in CAR-T cell therapy.

Methods

This study summarizes the currently published clinical research results on CD7 CAR-T cells and evaluates the safety and effectiveness of CD7 CAR-T cell therapy.

Results

Among the 13 studies included in this study, a total of 200 patients received CD7 CAR-T cell therapy, including 88 patients who received autologous CAR-T cells, 112 patients who received donor derived CAR-T cells. 87% (80% -94%, I2=29.65%) of patients achieved complete remission. The incidence of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) was 94% (88% -98%, I2 =32.71%, p=0.12), while the incidence of severe CRS (grade ≥ 3) was 12% (5% -20%, I2=41.04%, p=0.06). As for the incidence of immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS), it is 4% (1% -7%, I2=0, p=0.72). Through analysis of the key clinical issues, we found that consolidation allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) after CAR-T cell therapy can significantly improve survival and avoid recurrence. Therefore, we believe that the consolidation allo-HSCT after CD7 CAR-T cell therapy should be advocated. And patients who received CD7 CAR-T cell therapy without gene editing had significantly longer overall survival than those who received CD7 CAR-T cell therapy with gene editing. This suggests that gene edited CD7 CAR-T cells may pose some potential risks that limit the long-term survival of patients.

Conclusion

Our study confirms the efficacy and safety of CD7 CAR-T cells and provides research directions for the subsequent treatment.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=502896, identifier CRD42024502896.
Preoperative mapping techniques for brain tumor surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Leone Augusto , Carbone Francesco , Spetzger Uwe , Vajkoczy Peter , Raffa Giovanni , Angileri Flavio , Germanó Antonino , Engelhardt Melina , Picht Thomas , Colamaria Antonio , Rosenstock Tizian
Published: January 2025

Accurate preoperative mapping is crucial for maximizing tumor removal while minimizing damage to critical brain functions during brain tumor surgery. Navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are established methods for assessing motor and language function. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review analyzes the reliability, clinical utility, and accessibility of these techniques. A total of 128 studies (48 nTMS, 56 fMRI, 24 MEG) were identified from various databases. The analysis finds nTMS to be a safe, standardized method with high accuracy compared to direct cortical stimulation for preoperative motor mapping. Combining nTMS with tractography allows for preoperative assessment of short-term and long-term motor deficits, which may not be possible with fMRI. fMRI data interpretation requires careful consideration of co-activated, non-essential areas (potentially leading to false positives) and situations where neural activity and blood flow are uncoupled (potentially leading to false negatives). These limitations restrict fMRI’s role in preoperative planning for both motor and language functions. While MEG offers high accuracy in motor mapping, its high cost and technical complexity contribute to the limited number of available studies. Studies comparing preoperative language mapping techniques with direct cortical stimulation show significant variability across all methods, highlighting the need for larger, multicenter studies for validation. Repetitive nTMS speech mapping offers valuable negative predictive value, allowing clinicians to evaluate whether a patient should undergo awake or asleep surgery. Language function monitoring heavily relies on the specific expertise and experience available at each center, making it challenging to establish general recommendations.
Computed tomography-based investigation of degenerative neural cervicothoracic foraminal stenosis as a potential mechanism for Horner syndrome
Authors: Ong Joshua , Kurokawa Mariko , Khanna Sangeeta , De Lott Lindsey B. , Kurokawa Ryo , Sharma Aseem
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To investigate the presence and/or severity of cervicothoracic foraminal stenosis between the C7 and T3 segments could account for Horner syndrome, otherwise deemed to be idiopathic in nature.

Methods

This study was an IRB-approved, retrospective study that included 28 patients [mean ± standard deviation (age: 54.5 ± 18.7 years)] with a confirmed diagnosis of Horner syndrome, absence of any identifiable cause, and availability of a neck CT/CT angiogram obtained within 6 months of the diagnosis. A neuroradiologist masked to the laterality of Horner syndrome reviewed the CT scans, documenting the presence/severity of foraminal stenosis at levels C7-T1, T1-2, and T2-3 on a 4-point Likert scale defined as follows: 0, none; 1, mild; 2, moderate; and 3, severe narrowing, with grades 1, 2, and 3 signifying <1/3rd, 1/3rd–2/3rd, and >2/3rd stenosis of the expected normal foraminal dimension.

Results

Foraminal stenosis was present ipsilateral to the side of Horner syndrome in four (14.3%) patients and on the contralateral side in five (17.8%) patients. No significant difference in the extent of ipsilateral and contralateral foraminal stenosis was present at C7-T1 (p = 0.66), T1-2 (p = 0.32), or T2-3 (p = 0.75) levels. Mean ipsilateral (0.33 ± 1.0) and contralateral (0.33 ± 1.1) cumulative foraminal stenosis ddddscores were not significantly different (p = 1). Mean maximum foraminal stenosis scores ipsilateral (0.22 ± 0.59) and contralateral (0.30 ± 0.81) to the side of Horner syndrome were also comparable (p = 0.54).

Conclusion

With the low prevalence of foraminal stenosis at C7-T3 segments and the equivalent prevalence and severity of foraminal stenosis ipsilateral and contralateral to the side of Horner syndrome, foraminal stenosis is unlikely to be a common causative mechanism for Horner syndrome.
Overcoming virtual distance: a systematic review of leadership competencies for managing performance in telework
Authors: Bravo-Duarte Felipe , Tordera Núria , Rodríguez Isabel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Leadership in organizations is facing important challenges related to technological and social developments. The widespread use of teleworking and remote work requires organizations to identify and develop leadership competencies adapted to this work context. This structured literature review explores empirical evidence on theleadership competencies that facilitate telework and how they contribute to achieving high levels of performance in teleworkers.

Methods

We analyzed 22 quantitative and 15 qualitative empirical articles (2000–2024) following PRISMA guidelines. We selected only research that concentrates on specific leadership competencies.

Results

The review shows that competencies oriented to decrease operational and social distance at work are positively related to individual and team task performance in organizations. There is some evidence of the relationship of those competencies with other dimensions of performance such as innovative performance or OCB. Leaders' digital communication emerges as the foremost competency, along with goal management, support and empowerment. To some extent, mechanisms such as trust, autonomy, and media usage have been found as intervening mechanisms. Moderators such as teleworkers' self-management and geographical distance have been identified.

Discussion

Substantial gaps in the literature were identified, including the lack of longitudinal studies, limited research on contextual/adaptive performance, and lack of attention to adapting leadership competencies to digital settings. The findings provide guidelines for leadership training and development interventions tailored to telework, considering that traditional leadership competencies may need adaptation for telework and consider specific issues in this context.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023473498, identifier: CRD42023473498.
Pregabalin vs. gabapentin in the treatment of neuropathic pain: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of effectiveness and safety
Authors: Mayoral Víctor , Galvez Rafael , Ferrándiz Marta , Miguéns Vázquez Xoán , Cordero-García Carlos , Alcántara Montero Antonio , Pérez Concepción , Pérez-Páramo María
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Neuropathic pain is a prevalent and burdensome condition, and both pregabalin and gabapentin are widely used for its treatment. However, there is a lack of clarity regarding their comparative efficacy and safety. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and safety of pregabalin vs. gabapentin in managing neuropathic pain.

Methods

This study followed PRISMA guidelines and employed the PICOS search strategy. Comparative studies (clinical trials and cohort studies) were included, with patients with neuropathic pain treated either with pregabalin or gabapentin. Primary outcomes assessed were efficacy and safety. Data were extracted from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Collaboration Library databases. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Review Manager tool. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1 software, calculating effect sizes and conducting sensitivity analysis based on medication dosage.

Results

A total of 14 studies with 3,346 patients were analyzed. Pregabalin showed superior results compared to gabapentin in the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at various time intervals up to 12–14 weeks (SMD −0.47, 95% CI −0.74 to −0.19). The pregabalin group also had significant improvements in SF-12/SF-36/EQ-5D scores (SMD 0.39, 95% CI 0.11–0.68) and experienced more days with no/mild pain (MD 9.00, 95% CI 8.93–9.07) and fewer days with severe pain (MD −3.00, 95% CI −4.96 to −1.04). Pregabalin resulted in lower opioid consumption (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.33–0.76). Gabapentin had a higher incidence of nausea and vomiting. Sensitivity analysis supported the efficacy of pregabalin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pregabalin demonstrated superior and faster efficacy in alleviating neuropathic pain than gabapentin did. Additionally, it improved patient-reported outcomes, resulted in lower opioid consumption, and led to fewer adverse events.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=565208, PROSPERO (CRD42024565208).
Cerebral tissue oxygen saturation and its potential relationship with neurodevelopmental delay in pediatric liver transplant recipients
Authors: Fan Yichen , Pan Qianling , Su Henghua , Pu Zhongchan , Zhu Linjie , Qi Bo , Su Diansan , Yang Liqun , Huang Dan , Yu Weifeng
Published: January 2025

Objective

To discover the potential association between diminished intraoperative average SctO2 levels and postoperative neurodevelopmental delays among patients after pediatric living-donor liver transplantation.

Study design

Patients undergoing living-donor liver transplantation were recruited for this trial. The neurodevelopment status of patients was assessed using the Ages Stages Questionnaires. The primary outcome was the occurrence of neurodevelopmental delay among patients at different intervals following pediatric liver transplantation. Secondary outcomes included the duration of mechanical ventilation, rates of re-intubation, length of ICU stay, postoperative hospitalization, and intraoperative comparisons of mean arterial pressure (MAP), arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), and hemoglobin (Hb) concentration.

Results

A total of 119 patients were included in the statistical analysis and assigned to high saturation group (HS) and low saturation group (LS) according to the average intraoperative cerebral tissue oxygen saturation values. Following adjustment for PELD scores, significant differences between the two groups were observed for the incidence of neurodevelopmental delay in communication at 1 and 3 months follow-up (P = 0.019 and P = 0.020, respectively), fine motor at six months follow-up (P = 0.014), and problem-solving abilities at one year follow-up (P = 0.047). Moverover, the length of ICU stay (P = 0.009) and postoperative hospitalization (P = 0.029) in LS group were also significant prolonged.

Conclusion

This prospective observational study revealed that the patients with low average SctO2 values were more predisposed to experiencing postoperative neurodevelopment delays, suggesting a potential association between decreased average SctO2 and neurodevelopmental delay.
Optic nerve sheath diameter/eyeball transverse diameter ratio by ultrasound in prediction of increased intracranial pressure in children with viral encephalitis
Authors: Zhao Chun , Sun Peng-Cheng , Fang Ke-Jie , Fu Hui-Hui , Wei Li-Feng , Miao Yin-Yun , Guo Xin-Xin , Weng Xiao-Ling
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is common with viral encephalitis in children which is associated with complications and prognosis. The optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) is a new indicator for the assessment of intracranial pressure using ultrasound, CT scan and MRI imaging. Given the influence of physical development on ONSD size in children, we expect more accurate assessment of intracranial pressure with ONSD/ETD (eyeball transverse diameter) ratio by ultrasound. The aim of the study is to determine the performance of the ONSD/ETD ratio measurement to predict ICP occurring in children with viral encephalitis and evaluate the therapeutic effect.

Methods

Children with viral encephalitis from May 2022 to June 2024 were recruited in this study. The initial ONSD/ETD ratio measurement by ultrasound were completed before lumbar puncture. Children were divided into the increased ICP group and the normal ICP group based on whether the ICP was over 200 mmH2O measured by lumbar puncture. The ultrasound was repeated on the 3rd and 7th day of treatment.

Results

The ONSD/ETD ratios measured in the two groups before treatment were 0.231 ± 0.019 and 0.182 ± 0.012, respectively (p < 0.01). The ONSD/ETD ratio on the 3rd day of treatment in the increased ICP group was significantly lower than the data before treatment (p < 0.01). The data on the 7th day of treatment in increased ICP group was significantly lower than the data before treatment (p < 0.01), but not statistically significant compared to the data on the 3rd day of treatment (p = 0.650). The ROC curve demonstrated an AUC for ONSD/ETD ratio in predicting the occurrence of increased ICP in children with viral encephalitis was 0.974 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.939–1.000, p < 0.01], with a sensitivity of 95.1% and specificity of 93.3% at a cut-off value of 0.198.

Conclusion

Our study shows that ONSD/ETD can be used as an easy reference tool for evaluating ICP in children with viral encephalitis which can reflect the therapeutic effect.
Changes in blood glucose and lipid metabolism levels in children with central precocious puberty and its correlation with obesity
Authors: Cui Xin , Sun Xin , Li Qiubo , Chen Zongbo
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study analyzed the changes in blood glucose and lipid metabolism levels in children with central precocious puberty (CPP) and the correlation between CPP and obesity.

Methods

In total, 88 children with CPP aged 6–10 years who were admitted to our hospital between January 2023 and June 2024 (the CPP group), and 88 children without CPP in the same age group who received health check-ups (the non-CPP group) were retrospectively enrolled in this study. General data [gender, age, bone age, and body mass index (BMI)] were collected. Levels of blood glucose metabolism indicators [fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h postprandial blood glucose (2hPG), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)] and blood lipid metabolism indicators [triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C)] were compared. The incidence of obesity was calculated, and the Tanner stages of the obese group and the non-obese group were compared. The correlation between CPP degree (measured by Tanner staging) and obesity degree (measured by BMI) was analyzed using Spearman’s correlation analysis.

Results

The differences in gender and age between the CPP and non-CPP groups were insignificant (P > 0.05). Bone age and BMI in the CPP group were higher than in the non-CPP group (P < 0.05). The CPP group had higher serum FPG, 2hPG, HbA1c, TG, TC, and LDL-C levels and lower serum HDL-C levels than the non-CPP group. The incidence of obesity was higher in the CPP group (21.59%, 19/88) than in the non-CPP group (6.82%, 6/88). The Tanner staging scores in the obese group for the boys (testes and pubic hair), girls (breasts and pubic hair), and as a whole (testes/breasts and pubic hair) were elevated compared to those in the non-obese group (P < 0.05). Spearman’s correlation showed that the CPP degree (measured by Tanner staging) was positively correlated with the obesity degree (measured by BMI) in boys, girls, and the study sample as a whole (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Children with CPP had abnormal levels of blood glucose and lipid metabolism, and the CPP degree in these children was positively correlated with the degree of obesity.
A refined kidney tumor nephrometry system employed to screen pediatric patients who are eligible for nephron sparing surgery
Authors: Huang Mingchuan , Fei Yingchun , Zhong Zhihai , Jiang Hong , Liu Longshan , Liu Juncheng , Zhang Huanxi , Li Jun , Xu Zhe , Gao Pengfei , Wang Changxi
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Comprehension of the anatomical characteristics of pediatric kidney tumors is crucial for making surgical decisions. Previous kidney tumor nephrometry systems failed to incorporate two significant factors: tumor thrombus and multifocality. We develop a refined nephrometry system based on a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics exhibited by pediatric kidney tumors.

Methods

The TUMORS nephrometry scoring system comprises 6 indicators, including tumor (T)hrombus, (U)rinary collecting system involvement, (M)ultiple tumors, (O)utward property, (R)adius, and (S)ite relative to the polar lines. Each renal unit was assessed and scored independently. The complexity characteristics of kidney tumors were summarized, and the correlation was compared with RENAL nephrometry system. Furthermore, the complexity of kidney tumors was compared across different surgical procedures.

Results

A total of 43 patients were enrolled, involving 70 kidney units. Radical nephrectomy (RN) was performed on 13 kidneys, while the remaining 57 kidneys underwent nephron sparing surgery. In the NSS group, tumors in 37 kidneys were resected in vivo, whereas 20 kidneys underwent tumor resection ex vivo followed by kidney autotransplantation. According to the TUMORS nephrometry scoring system, there were 13, 34 and 23 kidney units classified as low, moderate and high complexity, respectively. Tumors that underwent RN or ex vivo removal exhibited higher complexity. The complications and positive margins of NSS were not statistically significant in relation to tumor complexity.

Conclusion

The TUMORS nephrometry scoring system holds significant guidance for the decision of surgical protocol and can be applied to the preoperative evaluation.