bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of HTLV-1-associated myelopathy in the UK from 1991 to 2024: a longitudinal observational cohort study
Authors: Rosadas Carolina , Baylon Jerico , Greiller Claire , Adonis Adine , Dhasmana Divya , Davies Nicholas W. S. , Taylor Graham P.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) may cause spinal cord inflammation, leading to HTLV-1-associated myelopathy (HAM). HAM is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that is associated with increased mortality and impaired quality of life. There are limited data on the incidence of HAM, with higher rates seen in Latin America and the Caribbean compared to Japan. We investigated the incidence of HAM in a cohort of initially asymptomatic people with HTLV-1 in the United Kingdom (UK).

Methods

This is a longitudinal retrospective observational study of people with confirmed HTLV-1 infection who first attended the National Centre for Human Retrovirology in London, UK, between 1st March 1991 and 31st March 2024. Clinical records were analysed to calculate the incidence rate and cumulative incidence of HAM. A secondary analysis was conducted to assess HAM incidence in people living with HTLV-1 and HIV coinfection. At the first visit, the HTLV-1 proviral load was compared between incident cases and those who remained asymptomatic during follow-up.

Results

In a cohort with up to 33 years of follow-up of individuals living with HTLV-1 in the UK, the cumulative incidence of HTLV-1-associated myelopathy (HAM) was found to be 1.35% (4/297), with an incidence rate of 1.98 per 1,000 person-years. All people who developed HAM had a high proviral load at the first clinic visit. No cases of incident HAM were observed among individuals who had HIV-HTLV-1 coinfection during the study period.

Discussion

The incidence of HAM in the UK cohort is comparable to the rates reported in Latin America and the Caribbean and is higher than reported in other high-income countries. High proviral load of HTLV-1 predates the development of HAM.
Regulatory mechanisms and applications of Lactobacillus biofilms in the food industry
Authors: Yao Peilin , Mohd Esah Effarizah , Zhao Chuanping
Published: January 2025

Lactobacillus is widely recognized for its probiotic benefits and has been widely used in food production. While biofilms are typically associated with pathogenic bacteria, they also served as a self-protective mechanism formed by microorganisms in an adverse environments. In recent years, relevant studies have revealed the excellent characteristics of Lactobacillus biofilms, offering new insights into their potential applications in the food industry. The Lactobacillus biofilms is important in improving fermentation processes and enhancing the resilience of Lactobacillus in various conditions. This paper reviews how quorum sensing regulates the formation of Lactobacillus biofilms and explores their roles in stress resistance, bacteriostasis and food production. Additionally, it highlights the emerging concept of fourth-generation probiotics, developed through biofilm technology, as a novel approach to probiotic applications.
Purification and expression of a novel bacteriocin, JUQZ-1, against Pseudomonas syringae pv. Actinidiae (PSA), secreted by Brevibacillus laterosporus Wq-1, isolated from the rhizosphere soil of healthy kiwifruit
Authors: Shuai Yang , Langbo Yi , Yi Yang , Danni Chen , Qingzhong Peng
Published: January 2025

Kiwifruit canker, caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (PSA), has led to significant losses in the kiwifruit industry each year. Due to the drug resistance feature of PSA, biological control is currently the most promising method. Developing biocontrol bacteria against PSA could help solve the issue of drug resistance generated during the chemical control of PSA to a certain extent. In this research, a Wq-1 strain that demonstrated excellent inhibitory activity against PSA was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of healthy kiwifruit. Based on the morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence, the isolated strain was identified as Brevibacillus laterosporus Wq-1. Bacteriostatic proteins were isolated from the cell-free culture filtrate of strain Wq-1 and were found to have a molecular weight of approximately 12 kDa, as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) detection revealed that there were several peptides in the target band that were consistent with protein 01021 in the genome. The gene of the 01021 protein was cloned into the plasmid pPICZa, and the recombinant bacteriocin was successfully expressed using the Pichia pastoris X33 expression system. The recombinant protein 01021 effectively inhibited the growth of PSA. This is the first report of the protein’s antimicrobial activity, distinguishing it from previously identified bacteriocins. Therefore, we named this bacteriocin JUQZ-1. In addition, our results showed that the protein JUQZ-1 not only exhibited a broad bacteriostatic spectrum but also high thermal and pH stability suitable for harsh environmental conditions., JUQZ-1, a protein with antimicrobial properties and strong environmental tolerance, may serve as a promising alternative to antibiotics.
Prolonged storage reduces viability of Peptacetobacter (Clostridium) hiranonis and core intestinal bacteria in fecal microbiota transplantation preparations for dogs
Authors: Correa Lopes Bruna , Turck Jonathan , Tolbert M. Katherine , Giaretta Paula R. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Pilla Rachel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been described useful as an adjunct treatment for chronic enteropathy in dogs. Different protocols can be used to prepare and store FMT preparations, however, the effect of these methods on microbial viability is unknown. We aimed (1) to assess the viability of several core intestinal bacterial species by qPCR and (2) to assess Peptacetobacter (Clostridium) hiranonis viability through culture to further characterize bacterial viability in different protocols for FMT preparations.

Methods

Bacterial abundances were assessed in feces from six healthy dogs by qPCR after propidium monoazide (PMA-qPCR) treatment for selective quantitation of viable bacteria. Conservation methods tested included lyophilization (stored at 4°C and at −20°C) and freezing with glycerol-saline solution (12.5%) and without any cryoprotectant (stored at −20°C). Additionally, the abundance of P. hiranonis was quantified using bacterial culture.

Results

Using PMA-qPCR, the viability of Faecalibacterium, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus, Blautia, Fusobacterium, and P. hiranonis was reduced in lyophilized fecal samples kept at 4°C and −20°C up to 6 months (p < 0.05). In frozen feces without cryoprotectant, only Streptococcus and E. coli were not significantly reduced for up to 3 months (p > 0.05). Lastly, no differences were observed in the viability of those species in glycerol-preserved samples up to 6 months (p > 0.05). When using culture to evaluate the viability of P. hiranonis, we observed that P. hiranonis abundance was lower in lyophilized samples kept at 4°C than −20°C; and P. hiranonis abundance was higher in glycerol-preserved samples for up to 6 months than in samples preserved without glycerol for up to 3 months. Moreover, the highest abundance of P. hiranonis was observed in glycerol-preserved feces. After 3 months, P. hiranonis was undetectable by culture in 83% (5/6) of the frozen samples without glycerol.

Discussion

While the lyophilization procedure initially reduced P. hiranonis abundance, P. hiranonis viability was stable thereafter for up to 6 months at −20°C. The higher bacterial viability detected in fecal samples preserved with glycerol confirms the use of this cryoprotectant as a reliable method to keep bacteria alive in the presence of fecal matrix for FMT purposes.
Immigration reduces selection in water microbial community assembly
Authors: Zhang Fen-Guo , Wu Kefan , Zhang Sanqing , Liang Furong , Du Zhihua , Wang Yongji , Zhang Quan-Guo
Published: January 2025

To investigate the influence of immigration on the selection in structuring local water bacterial communities, we conducted a new community assembly experiment using microcosms filled with sterile original water medium under outdoor conditions. We collected air particulate matter from dust pooled from samples collected at 10 locations across ~20 km in a warm temperate region in Linfen City (northern China). The immigration rates were increased by introducing air particulate matter into the microcosms. The diversity, structure, and composition of the bacterial community in the water were assessed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing on the 13th and 60th days after the start of the experiment. Our results showed that increasing immigration did not lead to significant changes in the overall diversity of the total bacterial community on the 13th day. However, on the 60th day, diversity significantly increased. The variation explained by the environment substantially decreased from the 13th to the 60th day. The amount decreased from the control to the high immigration treatments, with a range of 65.0 to 29.8% on the 13th day and 34.0 to 15.4% on the 60th day. The dominant phyla differed significantly. In the early stage, Proteobacteria (69.6%) accounted for a higher relative average abundance, while Firmicutes (4.6%), Cyanobacteria (6.0%), Planctomycetota (8.1%), Verrucomicrobiota (2.0%), and Halobacterota (0.9%) were more abundant in the late stage. Additionally, the late stage had an average of 33 phyla, compared to 15 phyla in the early stage. All the results suggested a minimal role of dispersal limitation in structuring water bacterial communities in the early stage, whereas, in the late stage, the bacterial communities might experience dispersal swamping in our study area. Variance partitioning indicated that throughout the experiment, increasing immigration weakened the signal of environmental selection in the water microbial community assembly. These results expand our understanding of the impact of immigration on environmental selection and provide insights into the varying importance of dispersal and selection on microbial community assembly at different stages of succession.
Anticarcinogenic cationic peptides derived from tryptic hydrolysis of β-lactoglobulin
Authors: Ibrahem Eman , Osman Ali , Taha Hefnawy , Abo El-Maati Mohamed F. , Sitohy Basel , Sitohy Mahmoud
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study investigated the tryptic hydrolysis of β-lactoglobulin (BLG) for 30, 60, 90, and 120 min at 1/200 E/S (enzyme/substrate ratio, w/w) to prepare potentially anticarcinogenic peptides.

Methods

The properties of hydrolysates were characterized, including degree of hydrolysis, free amino acids, SDS-PAGE, FTIR, and antioxidant activity employing DPPH-assay, β-carotene/linoleic acid, and FRAP assay.

Results

BLG tryptic hydrolysate produced after 60 min hydrolysis recorded the highest antioxidant activity, and LCMS analysis revealed 162 peptides of molecular masses ranging from 800 to 5671Da, most of them are of hydrophobic nature. Within the low-MW peptide group (24 peptides), there were nine hydrophobic basic (HB) and seven hydrophobic acidic (HA), representing 38% and 29%, respectively. The HB peptides may be responsible for the considerable biological activity of the hydrolysate. With dominant basic character supporting the carcinogenic activity of this hydrolysate. The in vitro anticancer activity against Mcf-7, Caco-2, and A-549 human cancer cell lines proliferation by MTT assay recorded IC50% at 42.8, 76.92, and 45.93 μg/mL, respectively. Treating each cell line with IC50% of the hydrolysate for 24 h increased the apoptosis by enhancing the expression of caspase-9 by 5.66, 7.97, and 3.28 folds over the untreated control and inhibited angiogenesis by reducing VEGFR-2 expression by about 56, 76, and 70%, respectively, indicating strong anticancer and antiangiogenic actions on human cancer cells. BLG tryptic hydrolysate may serve as a natural anticarcinogenic agent. The results of this study demonstrated that BLG hydrolysates have direct anticancer and antiangiogenic effects on human cancer cells. The chemical composition and characteristics of the BLG tryptic hydrolysate influence these biological and anticancer activities. The tryptic hydrolysates were generally effective against the three cancer cell lines studied (Mcf-7, Caco-2, and A-549). This effectiveness was assessed by measuring cell proliferation using the MTT assay and by evaluating their impact on angiogenesis through inhibition of VEGFR-2 activity.

Discussion

Future studies may focus on enhancing the anticarcinogenic effectiveness of the peptides by isolating and evaluating the most prominent individual peptide and varying the treatment conditions.
Preoperative factors and four-year decompressive laminectomy success in symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Fields Daryl P. , Holloway Kathryn Lois , Levin Emily , Keyserling Harold , Nortman Samuel , Krein Sarah L. , Gentili Amilcare , Katz Jeffrey N. , Perera Subashan , Weiner Debra K.
Published: January 2025

Background/context

Decompressive laminectomy (DL) for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is the most common spinal surgery for older adults. Biopsychosocial factors are associated with 1-year outcomes in these patients. While most surgical failures occur within 12 months, some are delayed, and factors responsible for delayed surgical failure are poorly understood.

Purpose

We sought to identify preoperative factors associated with long-term surgical success as defined by the Brigham Spinal Stenosis (BSS) questionnaire.

Study design/setting/patient sample

Within this prospective cohort study, we used logistic regression modeling to identify preoperative biopsychosocial factors that predict 4-year DL success in 110 prospectively evaluated veterans who underwent DL without fusion for LSS.

Outcome measures/methods

A questionnaire was used to evaluate BSS outcomes at 4 years post-DL.

Results

Overall, 69 participants (63%) demonstrated 4-year surgical success—sustained improvement in at least two of the three BSS domains (symptoms, function, and satisfaction). Greater catastrophizing [OR for 2 points 0.92 (0.84–1.00); p = 0.0512] and longer symptom duration [OR for 12 months 0.96 (0.93–0.99); p = 0.0231] were associated with lower likelihood of success, while presence of moderate/severe stenosis (OR 7.16–7.39; p = 0.0195–0.0260), college education [OR 2.93 (1.27–6.77); p = 0.0120], and greater treatment credibility [OR for 10 points 1.35 (1.10–1.66); p = 0.0048] were associated with greater likelihood of success in bivariate analyses. Symptom duration [OR 0.96 (0.92–0.99); p = 0.0208], treatment credibility [OR 1.51 (1.15–1.98); p = 0.0031], and stenosis severity (OR 14.4–17.4; p = 0.0045–0.0055) constituted a parsimonious set of factors in multivariable modeling.

Conclusions

Further work is needed to definitively identify preoperative factors that predict long-term outcomes. This may facilitate more accurate patient selection and counseling for patients undergoing DL for LSS.
KalmanFormer: using transformer to model the Kalman Gain in Kalman Filters
Authors: Shen Siyuan , Chen Jichen , Yu Guanfeng , Zhai Zhengjun , Han Pujie
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Tracking the hidden states of dynamic systems is a fundamental task in signal processing. Recursive Kalman Filters (KF) are widely regarded as an efficient solution for linear and Gaussian systems, offering low computational complexity. However, real-world applications often involve non-linear dynamics, making it challenging for traditional Kalman Filters to achieve accurate state estimation. Additionally, the accurate modeling of system dynamics and noise in practical scenarios is often difficult. To address these limitations, we propose the KalmanFormer, a hybrid model-driven and data-driven state estimator. By leveraging data, the KalmanFormer promotes the performance of state estimation under non-linear conditions and partial information scenarios.

Methods

The proposed KalmanFormer integrates classical Kalman Filter with a Transformer framework. Specifically, it utilizes the Transformer to learn the Kalman Gain directly from data without requiring prior knowledge of noise parameters. The learned Kalman Gain is then incorporated into the standard Kalman Filter workflow, enabling the system to better handle non-linearities and model mismatches. The hybrid approach combines the strengths of data-driven learning and model-driven methodologies to achieve robust state estimation.

Results and discussion

To evaluate the effectiveness of KalmanFormer, we conducted numerical experiments in both synthetic and real-world dataset. The results demonstrate that KalmanFormer outperforms the classical Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) in the same settings. It achieves superior accuracy in tracking hidden states, demonstrating resilience to non-linearities and imprecise system models.
Enriched rehabilitation on brain functional connectivity in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment
Authors: Huai Yaping , Yang Weiwei , Lv Yichen , Wang Kui , Zhou Hongyu , Lu Yiqing , Zhang Xiaoyun , Wang Yaze , Wang Jibing , Wang Xin
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to observe the effect of enrichment rehabilitation (ER) on cognitive function in post-stroke patients and to clarify its underlying mechanism.

Methods

Forty patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to two groups: conventional medical rehabilitation (CM group) and ER intervention (ER group). All patients underwent assessments of overall cognitive function, attention function, and executive function within 24 h before the start of training and within 24 h after the 8 weeks of training. We investigated the altered resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) with the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in patients with PSCI following ER training through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Additionally, twenty people undergoing routine physical examinations in the outpatient department of our hospital were selected as the healthy control (HC) group.

Results

Before training, both groups of PSCI patients exhibited significant impairment in overall cognitive function, attention function, and executive function compared to the HC group. However, there was no significant difference between the two PSCI patient groups. Following 8 weeks of treatment, both PSCI patient groups demonstrated substantial improvement in overall cognitive function, attention function, and executive function. Moreover, the ER group exhibited greater improvement after training compared to the CM group. Despite the improvements, the cognitive behavioral performance assessment scores of both PSCI patient groups remained lower than those of the HC group. RSFC analysis in the ER group revealed strengthened positive functional connectivity between the right DLPFC and the left superior frontal gyrus (SFG) and left anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG), along with decreased functional connectivity between the right DLPFC and the right superior temporal gyrus (STG) and right precentral gyrus post-ER intervention.

Conclusion

ER intervention is more effective than conventional medical rehabilitation in improving the cognitive function of PSCI patients, potentially by augmenting the FC between the right DLPFC and dominant cognitive brain regions, such as the left SFG and left ACG while attenuating the FC between the right DLPFC and non-dominant hemisphere areas including the STG and precentral gyrus within the right hemisphere.
Temporary trigeminal ganglion stimulation can improve zoster-related trigeminal neuralgia: a retrospective study in a single center
Authors: Yue Kan , Xu Shengrong , Hu Xin , Li Junhong , He Ruilin , Jiang Zongbin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Conventional management approaches have been challenged in dealing with zoster-related trigeminal neuralgia. Percutaneous trigeminal ganglion stimulation (TGS) has been rarely reported as a potential treatment option for alleviating pain associated with this condition. The present study investigated the application of percutaneous TGS in a series of patients suffering from Zoster-related trigeminal neuralgia to evaluate its potential efficacy of pain relief.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients who underwent TGS at the Department of Pain Management, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University. All patients were followed for up to 6 months. Clinical data, including the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and medication consumption were recorded before and after treatment. Adverse events related to the treatment were also documented.

Results

A total of nine patients underwent percutaneous TGS for Zoster-related trigeminal neuralgia. Among these patients, five (56%) experienced more than 50% pain relief at discharge. At the six-month follow-up, the mean VAS score decreased from preoperative 6.1 ± 1.5 to 2.5 ± 1.9, demonstrating a statistically significant reduction (t = 4.36, p < 0.05). The PSQI also showed a significant reduction from a baseline score of 14.1 to 6.5 at the six-month follow-up (Z = 4.2, p < 0.05). Seven patients reported satisfaction with the treatment and no serious adverse events occurred.

Discussion

The results of the present study suggest that this contributes growing evidence that percutaneous TGS may be an effective treatment for Zoster - related trigeminal neuralgia.
Multi-target combination treatment with rTMS and tDCS for Tourette syndrome: a case report
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Jin Qizu , Yang Qi , Liu Jing , Lu Yun , Ai Haibo
Published: January 2025

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by chronic motor and phonic tics, with a higher prevalence among boys. This condition can significantly impact patients’ learning and daily life. Due to the limited efficacy and potential side effects of pharmacological treatments for TS, there is a critical need to develop novel, tailored therapeutic strategies. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have been proposed as potential treatments for TS, and have shown promising results. Here, we report a case of refractory TS, in which low-frequency rTMS was delivered to the left supplementary motor area (SMA), combined with tDCS targeting the primary motor cortex (M1) and the cerebellum, with the cathode positioned over the right M1 and the anode over the left cerebellum. This is the first reported case using a multi-target combination therapy for TS. This treatment yielded favorable outcomes and maintained good efficacy during a three-month follow-up period. Although larger-scale trials are needed, our findings pave the way for the application of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques in TS, offering a transformative path to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for those with TS.
Does muscle fatigue change motor synergies at different levels of neuromotor control?
Authors: Pawłowski Michał , Furmanek Mariusz P. , Juras Grzegorz
Published: January 2025

We investigated the effects of static and dynamic fatigue on motor synergies, focusing on their hierarchical control. Specifically, we examined whether changes in fatigue influence the central nervous system’s ability to preserve movement stability. In addition to exploring the direct impact of fatigue on motor synergies, we also analyzed its effects at two distinct levels of hierarchical control, aiming to elucidate the mechanisms by which fatigue alters motor coordination and stability. Thirteen healthy, young and right-handed male participants took part in the study. Participants performed a bilateral accurate force production task under static and dynamic fatigue conditions at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction level with elbow flexors. Muscle activity level were collected from five muscles of each limb: biceps brachii, brachialis, brachioradialis, flexor carpi radialis, and flexor carpi ulnaris. The results revealed distinct effects of fatigue on isometric force production in the elbow joint tasks. On the higher level of hierarchy control of synergies, there were non-significant effects of different types of fatigue on movement performance, however, on the lower level we observed a strong effect of fatigue on forming motor synergies. There was no significant difference between the type of applied fatigue protocol on force and muscle activity data, nevertheless, the contribution of involved muscles to the task has changed. Our findings indicate that the central nervous system employs specific strategies to counteract fatigue and preserve movement stability during performance. However, the precise mechanisms by which variability at lower levels of hierarchical control influence higher levels remain unclear, highlighting a critical gap in our understanding of motor coordination under fatigue. Future studies should explore how these interactions across hierarchical levels contribute to movement stability under different fatigue conditions.
Characterizing executive functioning and associated behaviors in individuals with dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) syndrome
Authors: Rea Hannah M. , Webb Sara Jane , Kurtz-Nelson Evangeline C. , Hudac Caitlin M. , Bernier Raphael A. , Miles Conor , Earl Rachel , Whiting Alana , Eayrs Curtis , Johansson Margaret , Wang Tianyun , Eichler Evan E. , Neuhaus Emily
Published: January 2025

Introduction

DYRK1A, a protein kinase located on human chromosome 21, plays a role in postembryonic neuronal development and degeneration. Alterations to DYRK1A have been consistently associated with cognitive functioning and neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism, intellectual disability). However, the broader cognitive and behavioral phenotype of DYRK1A syndrome requires further characterization. Specifically, executive functioning, or cognitive processes that are necessary for goal-directed behavior, has not yet been characterized in this population.

Methods

Individuals with DYRK1A variants (n = 29; ages 4 to 21 years) were assessed with a standardized protocol with multiple measures of executive functioning: Delis-Kaplan Executive Function Schedule, and chronologically age-appropriate caregiver-report forms of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) and Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA). We first examined the feasibility and appropriateness of established executive functioning measures among participants with DYRK1A syndrome to inform selection of executive functioning tools in future research. We then characterized executive functioning among the group, including associations with other phenotypic features.

Results

Neurocognitive assessments of executive functioning were deemed infeasible due to cognitive and verbal functioning. Caregiver-report revealed elevated executive functioning concerns related to self-monitoring, working memory, and planning/organization on the BRIEF, and attention and ADHD on the CBCL. Only two participants had existing ADHD diagnoses; however, 5 participants (out of 10 participants with data) exceeded the cutoff on the BRIEF, 13 individuals (out of 27 with data) exceeded the cutoff on the ASEBA ADHD subscale, and 18 exceeded the cutoff on the ASEBA attention subscale. There was concordance between ADHD diagnosis and the ASEBA, but not BRIEF. Executive functioning was correlated with nonverbal IQ and autism traits.

Discussion

Objective measures of executive functioning are needed for individuals with intellectual disability who are nonverbal and/or have motor limitations. Diagnostic overshadowing, or the tendency to attribute all problems to intellectual disability and to leave other co-existing conditions, such as executive functioning challenges or ADHD, undiagnosed, is common. Phenotypic characterization of executive functioning is therefore important for our understanding of DYRK1A syndrome and for ensuring that caregivers’ concerns are addressed, and individuals receive the clinical services that best meet their needs.
Dietary glycemic and insulin indices with the risk of osteoporosis: results from the Iranian teachers cohort study
Authors: HoushiarRad Anahita , Fotros Danial , Esmaili Mina , Sohouli Mohammad Hassan , Ajami Marjan , Abdollahi Morteza , Hatami Marbini Motahare
Published: January 2025

Background

Osteoporosis is a chronic condition characterized by reduced bone strength and an elevated risk of fractures. The influence of diet and glucose metabolism on bone health and the development of osteoporosis has been an area of interest. This study aimed to investigate the potential association between dietary glycemic index (DGI), dietary glycemic load (DGL), dietary insulin index (DII), dietary insulin load (DIL), and the odds of osteoporosis among Iranian adults.

Methods

Data from 12,696 Iranian teachers (35–50 years) in a cross-sectional study on diet, nutrition, physical activity, and diseases were analyzed. The participants had no history of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, thrombosis, or cancer and consumed between 800 and 4,200 kcal/day. We estimated DGI, DGL, DII, and DIL from a validated semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ). We also diagnosed osteoporosis using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Results

In the fully adjusted model, higher DGI and DGL were significantly associated with increased odds of osteoporosis (OR = 1.78 and 1.46 for the highest vs. the lowest tertile; P trend < 0.05). Nonetheless, no significant association was found between DII or DIL and osteoporosis prevalence. Moreover, higher DIL and DGL were associated with a higher intake of calorie-dense/nutrient-poor foods and a lower intake of antioxidant-rich foods.

Conclusion

Although our study showed that high DGI/DGL increased osteoporosis risk in Iranian teachers, no association was found between DII/DIL and osteoporosis prevalence. More research is needed to confirm these results and understand the mechanisms involved.
Associations of urinary caffeine metabolites with sex hormones: comparison of three statistical models
Authors: Zhou Jianli , Qin Linyuan
Published: January 2025

Aims

The association between urinary caffeine and caffeine metabolites with sex hormones remains unclear. This study used three statistical models to explore the associations between urinary caffeine and its metabolites and sex hormones among adults.

Methods

We selected the participants aged ≥18 years in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data 2013–2014 as our study subjects. We performed principal components analysis (PCA) to investigate the underlying correlation structure of urinary caffeine and its metabolites. Then we used these principal components (PCs) as independent variables to conduct multiple linear regression analysis to explore the associations between caffeine metabolites and sex hormones (E2, TT, SHBG). We also fitted weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) methods to further assess these relationships.

Results

In the PCA-multivariable linear regression, PC2 negatively correlates with E2: β = −0.01, p-value = 0.049 (male population). In the WQS regression model, the WQS indices were associated with SHBG and TT both in male (SHBG: WQS index = −0.11, p < 0.001; TT: WQS index = −0.10, p < 0.001) and female (SHBG: WQS index = −0.10, p < 0.001; TT: WQS index = −0.04, p < 0.001) groups. Besides, the WQS index was significantly associated with E2 in females (p < 0.05). In the BKMR model, despite no significant difference in the overall association between caffeine metabolites and the sex hormones (E2, TT, SHBG), there was nonetheless a declining trend in the male population E2 group, in the male and female population SHBG groups also observed a downward trend.

Conclusion

When considering the results of these three models, the whole-body burden of caffeine metabolites, especially the caffeine metabolites in the PC2 metabolic pathway was significantly negatively associated with E2 in males. Considering the advantages and disadvantages of the three statistical models, we recommend applying diverse statistical methods and interpreting their results together.
Wernicke encephalopathy in a patient with drug-induced liver failure: a case report
Authors: Cao Jiao-Jiao , Li Jing , Cheng Yan , Luo Li-Min , Chen Yang , Huang Chang-Xing , Zhang Ye
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Wernicke encephalopathy is a metabolic disease mainly associated with vitamin B1 deficiency, which is common in chronic alcoholism. Non-alcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy is difficult for early diagnosis.

Case presentation

One case involved a 62-year-old man who was admitted to hospital with drug-induced liver failure. He presented lower extremity weakness and progressive worsening of consciousness disturbance post-admission and was eventually identified as Wernicke encephalopathy by magnetic resonance imaging scan and deficiency in vitamin B1. The classic symmetric hyperintense signals on T2-weighted and diffusion-weighted images were reversible after intravenous vitamin B1 supplementation.

Conclusion

A high index of clinical suspicion is required for early diagnosis and appropriate preventive and therapeutic strategies by adequate and immediate vitamin B1 supplements in the reversible stage of Wernicke encephalopathy.
Interventions to promote healthy nutrition and lifestyle and to tackle overweight and obesity amongst children in need in Europe: a rapid literature review
Authors: Halilagic Anela , Roussos Renos , Argyropoulou Matzourana , Svolos Vaios , Mavrogianni Christina , Androutsos Odysseas , Mouratidou Theodora , Manios Yannis , Moschonis George
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The global prevalence of overweight and obesity has reached epidemic proportions amongst children and adolescents, with approximately one third of children in Europe being overweight or obese. There is a higher likelihood for overweight and obesity reported for vulnerable groups of children, also known as children in need. As there is currently no knowledge of the best practice interventions for improving nutrition and physical activity habits amongst these vulnerable groups, the aim of this rapid review was to examine evidence that focused on best practice interventions to tackle overweight and obesity in children in need in Greece and/or other European countries.

Methods

Studies were sought that presented methods and results of interventions and their evaluation. There were 989 results originally identified from database searches, which then reduced to 8 studies for inclusion following abstract and full-text screening processes. A narrative synthesis was conducted to present the characteristics and results of each study.

Results

The only group of children in need that was identified was of low socioeconomic status (SES). There were several interventions identified that were successful across various countries in Europe, however there is a lack of best practice interventions to contribute to longer lasting solutions to preventing overweight and obesity.

Conclusion

Our findings encourage the implementation of interventions that will be inclusive of children with vulnerabilities other than low SES, as well as the establishment of specific criteria guiding the design of best practice interventions.
Association of serum calcium level with periodontitis: a cross-sectional study from NHANES 2009–2014
Authors: Cao Hongliang , Wang Min , Duan Mengna , Wang Song , Zhang Haiyang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the association between serum calcium levels and periodontitis in a U.S. adult population, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2014.

Method

Data were analyzed from 8,601 participants aged over 30 years, who were categorized based on the presence or absence of periodontitis. Serum calcium levels were measured using standardized NHANES protocols, and periodontitis status was determined through clinical oral examinations. To assess the relationship between calcium levels and periodontitis, multivariate logistic regression models were applied across three levels of adjustment. Additionally, trend tests and subgroup analyses were conducted to explore associations across different demographic and clinical subgroups. A smoothing curve fitting and threshold effect analysis were also performed to examine potential nonlinear relationships.

Results

After adjusting multiple covariates, participants in the highest quartile of serum calcium showed an 18% reduced risk of periodontitis compared to those in the lowest quartile (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.71–0.95, p = 0.0083; p for trend = 0.0057). The association remained stable across various subgroups. Smoothing curve fitting indicated a nonlinear negative correlation between calcium levels and periodontitis, though without a significant inflection point at 2.48 mmol/L (p = 0.094).

Conclusion

Elevated serum calcium levels appear to be associated with a lower risk of periodontitis in adults. These findings suggest that adequate calcium intake may play a role in periodontitis prevention, providing valuable insight for clinical guidance on nutritional and preventive strategies in periodontal health.
Optimization of drying parameters and texture properties of winter jujube slices by radio frequency combined with hot air
Authors: Li Yang , Yang Chenyan , Cao Shuaitao , Guan Ruijie , Zhang Bowen , Yao Xuedong , Wang Qiang , Dong Wancheng , Huang Yong
Published: January 2025

In order to improve the drying quality of winter jujube slices and find the best drying process parameters, RF + HA (radio frequency combined hot air) drying technology was used in this study to study the effects of plate spacing, RF application time, and RF interval time on the quality of winter jujube slices. Vitamin C (VC) content, red and green value (a*), and drying rate (DR) were used as quality indexes, and the changing trend of texture properties was analyzed. According to the conclusion of the single-factor experiment, the orthogonal experiment is carried out, and the parameters of each factor in the orthogonal experiment are optimized by the comprehensive balance method and matrix analysis method. The results showed as follows: (1) Plate spacing, RF application, and interval time all significantly affected the drying properties in the single-factor test (p < 0.05). The VC content of winter jujube slices increased and then decreased with the increase in the three factors. (2) In the orthogonal test, the order of influence of each factor on the quality of the winter jujube tablet is plate spacing > RF interval time > RF application time. The optimum RF heat treatment parameters are plate spacing of 100 mm, RF application time of 3 min, and RF interval time of 2 min. Under these conditions, the VC content of the winter jujube slices was 258.35 mg/100 g, a* was −9.47 and the DR was 0.64 g/min. (3) RF + HA has more advantages in shortening drying time and maintaining shape, reducing hardness by 12.6 ~ 18.7% and crispiness by 13.8 ~ 20.4%, the microstructure of jujube slices shows a regular honeycomb shape. The research results provide a new drying combination mechanism and process optimization scheme for improving the drying technology of winter jujube slices in industrial production.
A novel interplay between bacteria and metabolites in different early-stage lung cancer: an integrated microbiome and metabolome analysis
Authors: Zhai Xiaoqian , Lin Dongqi , Shen Yi , Zhai Ni , Yu Fan , Zhang Jiabi , Lin Yiyun , Wang Yuqing , Zhou Qinghua , Zheng Xi
Published: January 2025

Background

The carcinogenesis mechanism of early-stage lung cancer (ESLC) remains unclear. Microbial dysbiosis is closely related to tumor development. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between microbiota dysbiosis in ESLC.

Methods

We investigated a total of 108 surgical specimens of lung nodules, including ground glass nodules (GGN) diagnosed as lung adenocarcinoma (n = 25), solid nodules (SN) diagnosed as lung adenocarcinoma (n = 27), lung squamous carcinoma (LUSC) presenting as solid nodules (n = 26), and benign pulmonary nodules (BPD) (n = 30) that were collected. 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics analysis were performed in all of the specimens.

Results

We found a significantly lower microbiota richness in SN than in the GGN and LUSC. Ralstonia may be an important flora promoting the development of early lung adenocarcinoma, while Feacalibacterium and Blautia play a protective role in the progression of GGN to SN. Akkermansia, Escherichia-shigella, and Klebsiella exhibited high abundance in early lung squamous carcinoma. Compared with BPD, the differential metabolites of both early adenocarcinomas (SN and GGN) are mainly involved in energy metabolic pathways, while early LUSC is mainly involved in glutathione metabolism, producing and maintaining high levels of intracellular redox homeostasis. A correlation analysis revealed that different microbiota in GGN may function in energy metabolism via N-acetyl-1-aspartylglutamic acid (NAAG) when compared to BPD, while creatine and N-acetylmethionine were the main relevant molecules for the function of differential microbiota in LUSC.

Conclusion

Our study identified that early-stage lung adenocarcinoma and squamous carcinoma differ in microbial composition and metabolic status. Ralstonia may be an important flora promoting the development of early lung adenocarcinoma, while Feacalibacterium and Blautia play a protective role in the progression of GGN to SN. Conversely, Akkermansia, Escherichia-shigella, and Klebsiella exhibited high abundance in early lung squamous carcinoma. The metabolites of both early adenocarcinomas (SN and GGN) are mainly involved in energy metabolic pathways, while early LUSC is mainly involved in glutathione metabolism. Our study provides new insights into the carcinogenesis of ESLC.
Characterizing microbial communities and their correlation with genetic mutations in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma: implications for disease progression and therapeutic targets
Authors: Yang Hao-Shuai , Zhang Jin , Feng Hong-Xiang , Qi Fei , Kong Fan-Jia , Zhu Wei-Jie , Liang Chao-Yang , Zhang Zhen-Rong
Published: January 2025

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), the most prevalent form of lung cancer. The transition from adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS), and minimally invasive adenocarcinoma (MIA) to invasive adenocarcinoma (IAC) is not fully understood. Intratumoral microbiota may play a role in LUAD progression, but comprehensive stage-wise analysis is lacking.

Methods

Tumor and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples from patients with AIS/MIA or IAC were collected for next-generation sequencing to characterize microbial diversity and composition. DNA extraction involved lysing samples with nuclease and protease, followed by homogenization and elution. Sequencing libraries were prepared and sequenced on the Illumina platform. Whole exome sequencing was performed to identify somatic mutations and genetic variants. Bioinformatics analysis, including taxonomic annotation with Kraken2 and de novo assembly with MEGAHIT, was conducted to process metagenomic data. Correlation analysis was performed to link microbial species with mutated genes using custom R scripts.

Results

Metagenomic analysis revealed a distinct microbial profile in IAC compared to AIS/MIA, with increased abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes in the IAC group. Bosea sp. and Microbacterium paludicola, were less abundant in IAC, suggesting a potential protective role in early-stage disease. Conversely, Mycolicibacterium species were more prevalent in IAC, indicating a possible contribution to disease progression. Genetic sequencing identified PTPRZ1 strongly correlating with microbial composition, suggesting a mechanistic link between microbiota and genetic alterations in LUAD.

Conclusion

This study characterizes microbial communities in various stages of LUAD, revealing links between microbiota and genetic mutations. The unique microbiota suggests its role in LUAD progression and as a therapeutic target.
Case report: A case of lateral neck mass: ectopic thyroid carcinoma or lymph node metastasis?
Authors: Wei Xinran , Yu Ping , Duan Chengcheng , Zhong Jingyue , Wu Xianji , Xiao Siqi , Yu Wenxi , Zhang Guang
Published: January 2025

Objective

To review a rare case of a lateral neck mass pathologically confirmed as an encapsulated papillary thyroid carcinoma in our center for complementing the lack of management of rare cases, and to explore the differentiation of primary ectopic thyroid carcinoma and metastatic disease in the context of the presence of malignant tumors within the situ thyroid gland.

Methods

We searched for studies on lateral neck ectopic thyroid cancer to compare and analyze it with metastatic carcinoma of the thyroid gland in terms of clinical features, imaging manifestations, pathological features at molecular level, and treatment principles.

Results

Based on available data, we concluded that the mass of this patient was consistent with metastatic lateral neck ectopic thyroid carcinoma.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that differentiating between these two conditions is challenging, as there is currently no reliable methods that can adequately determine their nature. Developing a preoperative diagnostic method would be significant for diagnosing pathologic masses in the lateral neck and selecting appropriate surgical extent and adjuvant therapy.
AI predicting recurrence in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: systematic review with study strengths and weaknesses
Authors: Abbas Saram , Shafik Rishad , Soomro Naeem , Heer Rakesh , Adhikari Kabita
Published: January 2025

Background

Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer (NMIBC) is notorious for its high recurrence rate of 70-80%, imposing a significant human burden and making it one of the costliest cancers to manage. Current prediction tools for NMIBC recurrence rely on scoring systems that often overestimate risk and lack accuracy. Machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming oncological urology by leveraging molecular and clinical data to enhance predictive precision.

Methods

This comprehensive review critically examines ML-based frameworks for predicting NMIBC recurrence. A systematic literature search was conducted, focusing on the statistical robustness and algorithmic efficacy of studies. These were categorised by data modalities (e.g., radiomics, clinical, histopathological, genomic) and types of ML models, such as neural networks, deep learning, and random forests. Each study was analysed for strengths, weaknesses, performance metrics, and limitations, with emphasis on generalisability, interpretability, and cost-effectiveness.

Results

ML algorithms demonstrate significant potential, with neural networks achieving accuracies of 65–97.5%, particularly with multi-modal datasets, and support vector machines averaging around 75%. Models combining multiple data types consistently outperformed single-modality approaches. However, challenges include limited generalisability due to small datasets and the "black-box" nature of advanced models. Efforts to enhance explainability, such as SHapley Additive ExPlanations (SHAP), show promise but require refinement for clinical use.

Conclusion

This review illuminates the nuances, complexities and contexts that influence the real-world advancement and adoption of these AI-driven techniques in precision oncology. It equips researchers with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the ML algorithms employed. Actionable insights are provided for refining algorithms, optimising multimodal data utilisation, and bridging the gap between predictive accuracy and clinical utility. This rigorous analysis serves as a roadmap to advance real-world AI applications in oncological care, highlighting the collaborative efforts and robust datasets necessary to translate these advancements into tangible benefits for patient management.