bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: Spontaneous renal hemorrhage in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis
Authors: Yu Ruohan , Zhang Lina , Long Ting , Gao Hui , Xu Jing , Zhang Tong , Li Shengguang
Published: January 2025

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a systemic necrotizing vasculitis that predominantly affects small vessels. In this report, we present a typical case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) complicated by spontaneous renal hemorrhage (SRH), a rare but potentially severe condition. The patient developed SRH during immunosuppressive therapy but recovered following conservative treatment. We then conducted a systematic literature review on SRH in the context of AAV, and analyzed clinical features, management strategies, and patient prognosis. A total of 15 patients were enrolled for statistical analysis, comprising the one case reported in the current study and 14 from the literature. Of these patients, nine presented with GPA and six showed microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), with a sex distribution of 3:2 males to females. The average patient age was 54.5 years, and ranged from 25 to 82 years. Acute flank pain was the most common clinical manifestation, and was occasionally accompanied by anemia and shock. Treatment varied for the different patients. Eight patients received glucocorticoid and immunosuppressive agents that included rituximab, cyclophosphamide, and azathioprine; five patients underwent transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE); and one patient underwent nephrectomy. Our findings indicate that SRH typically occurs early in the course of AAV and correlates with disease activity, with renal aneurysm rupture as the primary cause. More than half of the patients respond well to corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. Timely TAE is essential for patients showing persistent deterioration despite conservative management.
Screening semen samples for Zika virus infection: role for serologic and RT-PCR testing
Authors: Ferraz Humberto , Akrami Kevan , de Moraes Laise , Gusmão Lais Cambuí , Coelho Genevieve , Freitas Daniele , Barral-Netto Manoel , Barral Aldina , Boaventura Viviane , Santos Luciane Amorim , Khouri Ricardo
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Zika virus (ZIKV) is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites though may act as a sexually transmitted infection. Men can shed the virus in their semen for extended periods, with reports indicating shedding for up to six months after the initial infection. This poses a concern for couples planning pregnancy, whether through natural or assisted methods due to the risk of congenital Zika disease. Human reproductive clinics typically perform serologic tests to screen for Zika infection.

Methods

In this study, we evaluated semen samples stored in a human reproduction clinic in Salvador, Brazil, during the Zika virus outbreak, using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) technique.

Results

36 sperm samples from 23 donors were analyzed, including 5 with positive IgG serology for ZIKV and all negative for IgM. Despite these serologic findings, all analyzed samples were negative by RT-qPCR ZIKV.

Discussion

Despite the limited number of samples, this study raises further concern that the use of serology may be an unreliable surrogate method to predict the presence of ZIKV in semen.
Two new species of Plagiostomum (Prolecithophora, Plagiostomidae) from China with its morphology, phylogeny, and reproductive strategy
Authors: Feng Leyuan , Zhang Shiyan , Tao Ming , Sun Ting , Wang Antai
Published: January 2025

Plagiostomum flatworms are small, free-living organisms frequently found in saltwater or freshwater habitats, but their biological characteristics remain largely unknown. Here, we describe two new species of Plagiostomum collected from the intertidal zone of the South China Sea, based on the integrative studies of morphology, phylogeny, reproduction, and juvenile development. Morphologically, Plagiostomum nanhaiensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from congeneric species by its three dark brown dorsal stripes, pear-shaped vesicula seminalis located ventrally to the intestine, and the testes surrounding the ovaries and bead-like sperm. Additionally, Plagiostomum plagae sp. nov. can be distinguished from P. nanhaiensis sp. nov. and other congeneric species by its two connected dorsal stripes, multiple spherical testes arranged along the ventral midline, a hemispherical vesicula seminalis located on the right ventral side, and grain-shaped sperm. Kimura’s two-parameter distance and phylogenetic analyses further support the recognition of these two new species, showing that the three specimens of P. nanhaiensis sp. nov. and P. plagae sp. nov. form two separate clades within Plagiostomum with solid support. Moreover, these two new species exhibit similar habits and reproductive strategies, adopting hypodermic impregnation. The reproductive studies indicate that in natural environments or larger mating groups, these two new species tend to invest resources in male reproductive functions to enhance fertilization success, while in smaller or single-individual cultures, they shift resources toward complete female reproductive functions. Our results not only enrich the biodiversity data of the family Plagiostomidae in China but also provide new empirical evidence for existing sex allocation theories.
Preparation and carbon emission analysis of high-performance pavement concrete using waste gypsums
Authors: Wang Hui , Xu Fengxia , Liu Zhen , Zhong Shunjie , Xing Enkuo , Ye Yongbin , Zhao Yan , Li Chenjiang
Published: January 2025

This study explores the potential of waste gypsum, specifically phosphogypsum (PG) and desulfurization gypsum (DG), as alternative materials in supersulfated cement-based concrete (SSCC) for low-carbon road construction. The research comprehensively investigates the effects of PG and DG on the mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and water resistance of SSCC. Additionally, the hydration kinetics and microstructure of SSC are analyzed through isothermal calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The findings show that PG-modified SSCC outperforms DG-modified SSCC, with 26.9% and 28% improvements in compressive and flexural strengths, respectively. Both PG and DG contribute to enhanced corrosion resistance, particularly in acidic environments, due to the formation of distinct hydration products compared to traditional concrete. Microstructural analysis reveals denser structures with Ettringite (AFt) and calcium silicate hydrate. Moreover, the hydration process of SSC exhibits low heat release, mitigating cracking risks in outdoor applications. A comprehensive evaluation indicates that PG-modified SSCC not only offers superior mechanical properties but also demonstrates significantly reduced carbon emissions and energy consumption, highlighting its potential as a sustainable material for road concrete.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells exhibit distinct characteristics in bone marrow and blood of individuals with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Efstratiou Paris , Damianaki Athina , Kavidopoulou Aglaia , Ioannidou Polymnia , Markaki Effrosyni , Skianis Ioannis Moysis , Tsagliotis Electra , Kaliafentaki Vasilia , Mattheakakis Angelos , Ximeri Maria , Manouras Eleftherios , Lavigne Matthieu , Verginis Panayotis , Kalpadakis Christina
Published: January 2025

Antitumor immune surveillance is the key feature of tumour progression and response to treatment in various malignancies, such as lymphomas. Myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are bone marrow (BM)-derived cells with potent suppressive properties, implicated in T cell inhibition and tumour dissemination. In Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), circulating MDSCs constitute the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, while the contribution of BM MDSCs in disease pathogenesis remains elusive. In the present study we aimed to evaluate both the frequencies as well as the molecular signatures of MDSCs in blood and BM from newly diagnosed DLBCL patients prior to treatment initiation and from age matched healthy donors. Circulating levels of total, monocytic (M-) and polymorphonuclear (PMN-) MDSCs were found increased in DLBCL compared to healthy control, while in DLBCL patients the BM MDSCs were significantly increased compared to blood. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significantly different molecular fingerprints to characterize circulating and BM M-MDSCs, implying that MDSCs exhibit their function with distinct mechanisms depending on the anatomical compartment. Despite that MDSC frequencies did not demonstrate any significant correlation with disease characteristics and outcome, our findings propose that gene expression profiling should be evaluated for their potential prognostic impact. Overall, the findings presented here, provide new insights in the immunosuppressive networks that operate in DLBCL and importantly propose new molecular mechanisms expressed by BM MDSCs which may be explored therapeutically.
Effect of perioperative esketamine use on emergency delirium in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Liu Jinming , Sun Hong , Cheng Xue , Wang Chunhui , Lei Daoyun , Han Chao
Published: January 2025

Background

Emergence delirium(ED) is a common postoperative complication in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy under general anesthesia. There is no high-quality evidence on the relationship between esketamine and ED. The systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to investigate the effect of perioperative esketamine use on ED in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy.

Method

We searched Embase, The Cochrane Library, PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang, VIP, and SinoMed from inception to 1 September, 2024. Two evaluators identified randomized controlled trials comparing perioperative use of esketamine with placebo or other drugs in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. Incidence of ED was the primary outcome of the study. Data synthesis was performed by using Review Manager 5.4 software.

Results

Twenty-three relevant studies involving a total of 1,996 children were identified. Perioperative use of esketamine reduced the incidence of ED in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (RR = 0.33, 95% CI: [0.25, 0.44], p < 0.00001, I2 = 0%). Scores of ED were lower in the esketamine group than in the control group (SMD = -1.20, 95% CI: [−1.56,-0.84], p < 0.00001, I2 = 88%). Children in the esketamine group have lower postoperative pain scores (SMD = -0.51, 95% CI: [−0.80,-0.39], p < 0.00001, I2 = 74%). Esketamine was also associated with a lower incidence of adverse events (RR = 0.75, 95% CI: [0.57, 0.99], p = 0.04, I2 = 62%). We also found that the use of esketamine reduced the length of stay in the post-anesthetic care unit (PACU) but had no effect on the time to extubation.

Conclusion

Perioperative use of esketamine could significantly reduce the incidence of ED in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. However, the optimal dose and timing of esketamine administration for preventing ED remains to be explored.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=558560, PROSPERO: CRD42024558560.
Targeted drug delivery in neurodegenerative diseases: the role of nanotechnology
Authors: Dhariwal Rupal , Jain Mukul , Mir Yaser Rafiq , Singh Abhayveer , Jain Bhavik , Kumar Pankaj , Tariq Mohd , Verma Devvret , Deshmukh Khemraj , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Malik Tabarak
Published: January 2025

Neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by progressive neuronal loss and cognitive impairments, pose a significant global health challenge. This study explores the potential of nanotherapeutics as a promising approach to enhance drug delivery across physiological barriers, particularly the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (B-CSFB). By employing nanoparticles, this research aims to address critical challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. The multifactorial nature of these disorders necessitates innovative solutions that leverage nanomedicine to improve drug solubility, circulation time, and targeted delivery while minimizing off-target effects. The findings underscore the importance of advancing nanomedicine applications to develop effective therapeutic strategies that can alleviate the burden of neurodegenerative diseases on individuals and healthcare systems.
Successful resuscitation of acute type A aortic dissection with pulmonary embolism using long-term venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a case report
Authors: Zhu Guiwei , Yue Wenhui , Li Yanmin , Wang Haiqing , Li Jianqiang , Zhou Xin , Zhang Qinghai , Zhang Jihong
Published: January 2025

Acute aortic dissection (AAD) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are two critical and potentially fatal causes of chest pain. The simultaneous occurrence of these conditions is exceptionally rare; however, when they co-occur, the conflicting therapeutic strategies required significantly elevate mortality rates. While venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) has been extensively reported as a life-saving intervention for high-risk pulmonary embolism, its application in the management of AAD remains highly debated. Recently, our institution successfully employed VA-ECMO to treat a patient with acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) complicated by PE. This case highlights that VA-ECMO may serve as a crucial life-saving measure for patients with AAD who present with hemodynamic instability or cardiac arrest.
Isolation and characterization of a novel highly efficient bacterium Lysinibacillus boronitolerans QD4 for quantum dot biosynthesis
Authors: Gu Xingyu , Li Xiaoju , Zhang Ruijia , Zheng Ruoli , Li Mingrui , Huang Rong , Pang Xin
Published: January 2025

Microorganism-based biosynthesis of quantum dots is a low-cost and green production method with a wide range of potential applications. The development of environmentally friendly synthesis methods is required due to the toxicity and severe reactions that occur during the chemical synthesis of quantum dots. In this study, a novel strain, QD4, with the ability to the effectively and rapidly biosynthesize CdS quantum dots, is isolated and reported. The isolated strain is a Gram-positive, aerobic, flagellated, and rod-shaped bacterium, isolated from seawater. Through the physio-biochemical characterization and 16S rRNA-based phylogenetic tree analysis, the strain is identified as Lysinibacillus boronitolerans QD4. The strain QD4 grows well in the range of 25–40 °C (optimum, 37 °C), pH 5.0–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0), with a high cadmium-resistance as it could grow at Cd2+ concentration up to 2 mM, implying its good adaptability to the environment and potential for application. Cd2+ and L-cysteine are used as substrates for the biosynthesis of CdS quantum dots by strain QD4. The distinctive yellow fluorescence from CdS quantum dots is visible after only a short induction time (a few hours). Moreover, the properties of the CdS quantum dots are characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy, UV-absorption spectroscopy, TEM, XRD, XPS, and infrared spectroscopy. This study provides a novel strain resource for efficient biosynthesis of extracellular, water-soluble quantum dots, paving potential industrial applications in green production.
Unveiling the rhizosphere microbiome of Dendrobium: mechanisms, microbial interactions, and implications for sustainable agriculture
Authors: Sarsaiya Surendra , Jain Archana , Singh Ranjan , Gong Qihai , Wu Qin , Chen Jishuang , Shi Jingshan
Published: January 2025

The rhizosphere microbiome plays a critical role in plant health and productivity by fostering beneficial microbial interactions that support nutrient cycling, stress tolerance, and disease suppression. In the context of Dendrobium, understanding its interactions is essential for optimizing cultivation and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This review explores the rhizosphere microbiome of Dendrobium, focusing on the mechanisms and microbial interactions that contribute to plant health, stress tolerance, and growth and their implications for sustainable agriculture. This study highlights the diverse composition of microbial communities in the Dendrobium rhizosphere, including key bacteria (e.g., Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis), fungi (e.g., Glomus spp.), and biocontrol agents (Trichoderma spp.), and discusses their roles in nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and plant growth promotion. This review emphasizes the significance of plant-microbe signaling, such as the production of flavonoids, phytohormones, and strigolactones, in shaping the microbial environment and enhancing plant resilience. Additionally, it addresses modern techniques for analyzing microbial communities, including metagenomics and next-generation sequencing, and their applications in advancing precision agriculture. Future research should focus on bridging knowledge gaps related to genotype-microbiome interactions, exploring emerging microbial consortia and enhancing the integration of microbiome management in precision agriculture systems to improve plant health and productivity.
Response of alcohol fermentation strains, mixed fermentation and extremozymes interactions on wine flavor
Authors: Zhao Ling-Zhi , Chen Jing , Wei Xiang-Ying , Lin Bo , Zheng Feng-Jin , Verma Krishan K. , Chen Gan-Lin
Published: January 2025

Winemaking, one of the ancient technologies, is simply the process of converting sugar into alcohol through a complex biochemical reaction. The process of winemaking involves a complex of enological technique that faces a host of challenges in a winery including, inconsistent quality due to chemical and microbiological instability, limited sensory flavor profiles, and concerns met with changing micro-environmental conditions. Fermentation is a metabolic process where the chemical composition of an organic substrate is fragmented via the cellular enzymes under anaerobic conditions. Mixed fermentation, which involves using multiple strains, can enhance the aroma of fermented food, overcome the limitations of single strain fermentation, and improve flavor and quality of food. Mixed fermentation has important applications for agro-food industries, healthcare products and medical sciences. The modern mixed fermentation process showed the enhancement of wine aroma, flavor and taste, reducing volatile acidity and upregulating the phenylethyl acetate concentration through synergistic effect of multiple microorganisms. Key microorganisms in alcohol fermentation, such as yeast, lactic acid and acetic acid bacteria, interact with each other during alcohol fermentation process affects the quality and flavor of the wine. Extremophilic microorganisms have established different molecular strategies to survive amidst the adverse conditions. Biocatalysts isolated by these organisms are termed extremozymes and possess extraordinary properties of salt allowance, thermostability, and cold adaptability. However, the physicochemical and sensory properties of alcohol are important to the quality of end-use products. Therefore, when optimizing fermentation conditions, selecting a right combination of microorganisms is the key to derive better physicochemical and sensory properties. However, the use of mixed fermentation and extremozymes can provide significant insight and potential remedial solutions to overcome these technical problems and shape the final product in more desirable and sustainable ways, challenging the current shortcomings to deliver a more resilient end-products with consistent, flavorful, and a number of what may be considered remedial techniques can be employed to produce an acceptable product to consumers.
Comparative the efficacy and safety of Gosuranemab, Semorinemab, Tilavonemab, and Zagotenemab in patients with Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Cai Wenting , Zhang Hui , Wu Yan , Yao Yao , Zhang Jinping
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of anti-tau protein monoclonal antibodies for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Tau protein aggregation, a key pathological feature of AD, is closely associated with neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Targeting tau protein has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. By investigating the effects of monoclonal antibodies on cognitive function, disease progression, and overall quality of life in patients with AD, which can provide valuable insights into their potential as a therapeutic option for this devastating neurodegenerative disorder.

Methods

The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of Gosuranemab, Semorinemab, Tilavonemab, and Zagotenemab in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) were systematically searched across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library, up to May 2024. The control group included placebo. The efficacy indicators were change in the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating Scale Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB), Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive (ADAS-Cog), Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study-Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADCS-ADL) from baseline until the time of efficacy observation. Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata 14 and RevMan 5.4. The purpose of data processing, including generating network evidence plots, surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) ranking, league plots, and funnel plots, is to visually summarize and evaluate the relative effectiveness and safety and potential publication bias of multiple interventions. Mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) as effect sizes to analyze continuous variables.

Results

This study encompassed six RCTs involving 2,193 patients. Semorinemab were more effective than placebo in MMSE and ADAS-Cog scores (MDs ranging between 0.52 and 3.21; MDs ranging between 0.17 and 3.30). Placebo showed relatively good efficacy according to SUCRA ranking on change in CDR-SB and ADCS-ADL scores (75.7 and 79.5%). Tilavonemab and Semorinemab exhibited efficacy similar to that of a placebo in the analysis of the two indicators. Tilavonemab showed a lower incidence of AE, SAE, fall, and urinary tract infections than placebo, and the differences were statistically significant. Most safety analysis results showed no statistical difference.

Conclusion

The results indicated that anti-tau protein monoclonal antibodies, such as Semorinemab and Tilavonemab, showed promise in terms of efficacy and safety for managing AD. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings, assess long-term effects, and refine treatment protocols.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#myprospero, CRD42024583388.
Nonlinear optical imaging of two-dimensional nanomaterials
Authors: Sousa Frederico B. , Lafeta Lucas , Fonseca Gladystone R. , de Paula Ana M.
Published: January 2025

Since the obtaining of graphene, two-dimensional materials have emerged as a new class of nanomaterials with a plethora of new basic properties leading to a wide range of possible applications. In particular, 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) have been extensively studied due to their high nonlinear optical properties. In this review, we focused on the nonlinear properties of 2D nanomaterials covering the researches that explored their nonlinearities through optical imaging of the crystal structures.
Privacy-preserving ADP for secure tracking control of AVRs against unreliable communication
Authors: Zhang Kun , Han Kezhen , Hu Zhijian , Tan Guoqiang
Published: January 2025

In this study, we developed an encrypted guaranteed-cost tracking control scheme for autonomous vehicles or robots (AVRs), by using the adaptive dynamic programming technique. To construct the tracking dynamics under unreliable communication, the AVR's motion is analyzed. To mitigate information leakage and unauthorized access in vehicular network systems, an encrypted guaranteed-cost policy iteration algorithm is developed, incorporating encryption and decryption schemes between the vehicle and the cloud based on the tracking dynamics. Building on a simplified single-network framework, the Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation is approximately solved, avoiding the complexity of dual-network structures and reducing the computational costs. The input-constrained issue is successfully handled using a non-quadratic value function. Furthermore, the approximate optimal control is verified to stabilize the tracking system. A case study involving an AVR system validates the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed algorithm.
The role of neurotrophic factors in retinal ganglion cell resiliency
Authors: Abraham Alan K. , Telias Michael
Published: January 2025

Many retinal diseases are characterized by direct or indirect retinal ganglion cell (RGC) neurodegeneration. In glaucoma and optic nerve neuropathies, RGCs are the primary affected cells, whereas in photoreceptor dystrophies, RGC loss is secondary to the death of rods and cones. The death of RGCs in either case will irreversibly cause loss of vision, as RGCs are the sole output neurons of the retina. RGC neurodegeneration affects certain neurons preferentially, resulting in subpopulations of resilient and susceptible cells. Neurotrophins (NTs) are known to mediate neuronal survival through the downstream activation of various anti-apoptotic pathways. In this review, we summarize the current methods of RGC identification and quantification in animal models of direct or indirect neurodegeneration, and describe the advantages and disadvantages associated with these techniques. Using these techniques, multiple studies have uncovered the potential role of NTs in protecting RGCs during direct neurodegeneration, with BDNF and NGF delivery promoting RGC survival in models of experimental glaucoma. Many fewer studies have addressed similar questions in retinal diseases where RGC loss is secondary to photoreceptor degeneration, yielding conflicting results. Our analysis suggests that these seemingly contradictory results can be explained by the varying onset and geographic distribution of photoreceptor death.
Influence of nutritional status on rehabilitation efficacy of patients after stroke—a scoping review
Authors: Chen Huan , Fu Caihong , Fang Weihao , Wang Zhenyao , Zhang Dawei , Zhang Hu
Published: January 2025

Stroke patients are susceptible to malnutrition as a result of dysphagia, neurological impairments, and altered levels of consciousness. The nutritional status of individuals post-stroke is a critical determinant influencing the efficacy of rehabilitation outcomes. Therefore, there is great interest in the possible role of nutrients in promoting recovery after stroke. This article examines the enhancement of rehabilitation outcomes through the improvement of nutritional status. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Embase databases. Articles relevant to this topic, published from the inception of each database until November 2024, were identified. The selection was restricted to randomized controlled clinical trials, irrespective of language or publication date. The search specifically targeted studies involving stroke patients, encompassing both hemorrhagic and ischemic types, and interventions that combined nutritional supplementation with rehabilitation therapy. Studies with a focus on stroke prevention were excluded. Full-text articles that met the inclusion criteria were retrieved from the aforementioned sources. In instances where both a full report and a conference abstract were available for the same study, only the full report was considered. A total of 751 studies were considered for inclusion in this scoping review. Following a rigorous screening process, 13 studies were selected for detailed analysis. All selected studies were randomized controlled clinical trials. The findings indicate that supplementation with nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, essential amino acids, and antioxidants can enhance activities of daily living, improve balance function, and reduce neurological deficits in post-stroke patients. This review aims to synthesize current evidence regarding the effects of various nutrients and dietary regimens on limb rehabilitation in post-stroke patients, with the goal of providing new insights to facilitate the accelerated recovery of this population.
Body position influence on cerebrospinal fluid volume redistribution inside the cranial and spinal CSF compartments
Authors: Strbačko I. , Radoš M. , Jurjević I. , Orešković D. , Klarica M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

It is generally accepted that during body position changes from horizontal to vertical there is a short-lasting shift of a certain CSF volume from the cranium into the hydrostatically lower parts of the spinal space, which leads to transitory CSF pressure decrease to negative values.

Methods

In order to test this, we performed MRI volumetry of cranial and spinal part of the CSF space in healthy volunteers of both genders (n = 22) in three different body positions [horizontal (H); elevated head and upper body (H-UP) under an angle about 30° from the base; elevated lower body (B-UP) under an angle about 30° from the base].

Results

Volumes of brain and spinal cord tissue did not change during body position changes. Significant CSF volume (ml) changes occur inside the spinal space in the tested body positions, primarily in the lumbosacral segment (H-UP – 38.1 ± 7.0; H – 34.4 ± 6.5; B-UP – 28.7 ± 6.5), while at the same time no significant CSF volume changes have been observed inside the cranium in two tested positions (H and B-UP) in which it was possible to measure intracranial CSF volume changes or if we sum up cervical and cranial CSF volumes in those positions.

Conclusion

Observed results suggest that during the changes of body position CSF volume redistribution occurs, primarily inside the spinal and not the cranial space. This is in accordance with the new hypothesis by which spinal intradural space can significantly change its volume due to its elasticity, thus adjusting to the influence of gravity and pressure changes.
Effects of repeated intragastric administrations with heat-inactivated Mycobacterium aurum DSM 33539 on the stress-induced aggravation of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) colitis in C57BL/6N mice
Authors: Langgartner Dominik , Weiss Anna-Lena J. , Amoroso Mattia , Sterrett John D. , Lowry Christopher A. , Reber Stefan O.
Published: January 2025

Stress-protective effects have been reported for M. vaccae NCTC 11659 and M. vaccae ATCC 15483T. However, it remains to be investigated whether also closely related rapidly growing environmental saprophytic non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) species have protective effects against the negative consequences of chronic psychosocial stress. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to assess whether repeated i.g. administrations of a heat-inactivated preparation of Mycobacterium aurum DSM 33539 prior to 19 days of chronic subordinate colony housing (CSC) are able to ameliorate the negative effects of this preclinically validated mouse model for chronic psychosocial stress on subsequent dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) colitis in male C57BL/6N mice. The results of the present study show that repeated i.g. administrations of M. aurum DSM 33539 have stabilizing effects on the composition of the gut microbiome, indicated by the findings that M. aurum DSM 33539 prevented CSC-induced increases in the relative abundances of the colitogenic phyla Desulfobacterota and Deferribacterota. Indeed, the relative abundance of Deferribacterota on day 19 was strongly correlated with histological damage to the colon. In line with the latter, M. aurum DSM 33539 was further protective against the aggravating effects of stress on subsequent DSS colitis. Collectively, our findings confirm and extend previous findings from our group and suggest that the stress-protective effects reported for M. vaccae NCTC 11659 and M. vaccae ATCC 15483T are generalizable also to other NTM species.
Fourier or Wavelet bases as counterpart self-attention in spikformer for efficient visual classification
Authors: Wang Qingyu , Zhang Duzhen , Cai Xinyuan , Zhang Tielin , Xu Bo
Published: January 2025

Energy-efficient spikformer has been proposed by integrating the biologically plausible spiking neural network (SNN) and artificial transformer, whereby the spiking self-attention (SSA) is used to achieve both higher accuracy and lower computational cost. However, it seems that self-attention is not always necessary, especially in sparse spike-form calculation manners. In this article, we innovatively replace vanilla SSA (using dynamic bases calculating from Query and Key) with spike-form Fourier transform, wavelet transform, and their combinations (using fixed triangular or wavelets bases), based on a key hypothesis that both of them use a set of basis functions for information transformation. Hence, the Fourier-or-Wavelet-based spikformer (FWformer) is proposed and verified in visual classification tasks, including both static image and event-based video datasets. The FWformer can achieve comparable or even higher accuracies (0.4%–1.5%), higher running speed (9%–51% for training and 19%–70% for inference), reduced theoretical energy consumption (20%–25%), and reduced graphic processing unit (GPU) memory usage (4%–26%), compared to the standard spikformer. Our result indicates the continuous refinement of new transformers that are inspired either by biological discovery (spike-form), or information theory (Fourier or Wavelet transform), is promising.
Integrated information theory reveals the potential role of the posterior parietal cortex in sustaining conditioning responses in classical conditioning tasks
Authors: Phi Tien Cuong , Ishii Shin , Kondo Masashi , Matsuzaki Masanori , Nakae Ken
Published: January 2025

Classical conditioning is a fundamental associative learning process in which repeated pairings of a conditioned stimulus (CS) with an unconditioned stimulus (US) lead to the CS eliciting a conditioned response (CR). Previous research has identified key neural regions involved in processing reward-predicting cues and mediating licking behavior. However, the mechanisms that sustain high conditioned response rates across repeated sessions remain elusive, particularly regarding how the reward expectation is represented on a session-by-session basis. While early learning phases in classical conditioning have been extensively studied, the neural mechanisms that support consistent performance over time remain unclear. In this study, we sought to understand how cortical regions, particularly the posterior parietal cortex (PPC), contribute to maintaining high CR rates across sessions. Using the core complex framework derived from Integrated Information Theory (IIT), we explored the dynamics of neural networks during sessions of high CR performance. Our findings suggest that while traditional functional connectivity (FC) methods struggled to capture the complexity of sustained behavioral engagement, the core complex framework revealed key regions, notably the PPC, that were significantly correlated with enhanced CR sessions. This work suggests the potential role of the PPC in supporting reward expectations and maintaining consistent behavioral responses. By applying the core complex framework to investigate neural substrates of sustained behavior, we provide novel insights into the interaction of cortical networks during classical conditioning, offering promising directions for future research in associative learning and behavior.
Role of aquaporins in brain water transport and edema
Authors: Li Yuyuan , Wang Yining , Huang Xingda , Zhang Hao , Guan Youfei , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: January 2025

Water serves as the primary substance in all living cells and is an essential molecule involved in numerous biological processes critical for maintaining homeostasis in the central nervous system (CNS). Disruptions in water balance can occur in conditions such as cerebral edema, where fluid accumulation results in increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Aquaporins (AQPs) are transmembrane proteins that play a vital role in the rapid transport of water across cell membranes. Various subtypes of AQPs (AQP1, AQP3, AQP4, AQP5, AQP6, AQP7, AQP8, AQP9, and AQP11) have been identified in brain tissue. This review summarizes the latest advancements in our understanding of the critical role of AQPs in regulating water transport in brain edema. Abundant evidence indicates that AQP4, the most prevalent AQP in the CNS, regulates brain water transport and contributes to both cytotoxic and vasogenic edema, suggesting that AQP4 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for brain edema. Additionally, some studies have indicated that AQP1 plays a significant role in the formation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the maintenance of steady-state ICP. However, to date, these findings have not been translated into clinical practice. There is an urgent need to develop specific AQP inhibitors and activators to explore the potential benefits of modulating the functions of AQP1 and AQP4 in the context of brain edema.
Higher levels of oxidative balance score linked to lower risk of gallstones: findings from the 2017–2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Xiong Ting , Chen Zhonghuo , Yi Jianwei , Yu Taozhi , Wang Kai
Published: January 2025

Background and objective

The Oxidative Balance Score (OBS) has been linked to various chronic diseases; however, its association with gallstone prevalence remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between OBS and gallstone risk.

Methods

This cross-sectional study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 2017 to March 2020. Weighted logistic regression models were applied to examine the association between OBS and the prevalence of gallstones, complemented by subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was used to investigate the nonlinear association between OBS and the prevalence of gallstones.

Results

A total of 5,382 participants were included, among whom 592 reported a history of gallstones. After adjusting for confounding factors, a significant negative association was observed between OBS and gallstone prevalence (quartile 4 vs. quartile 1: odds ratio [OR] 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.43–0.90, p = 0.019). The RCS analysis further supported a negative linear relationship between OBS and gallstone risk (nonlinear p = 0.149). The findings of the subgroup analyses exhibited considerable consistency.

Conclusion

This study identified a significant negative linear association between OBS and gallstone risk, suggesting that higher OBS levels are associated with a reduced likelihood of gallstone formation.
Caffeinated chewing gum enhances maximal strength and muscular endurance during bench press and back squat exercises in resistance-trained men
Authors: Ding Li , Liu Jue , Yao Yi , Guo Li , Chen Bin , Cao Yinhang , Girard Olivier
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Caffeinated chewing gum, known for its rapid absorption, has not been previously studied for its effects on maximal strength and muscular endurance in resistance exercise. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of caffeinated chewing gum on maximal strength and muscular endurance during bench press and back squat exercises.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind design, 16 resistance-trained males (age: 21.6 ± 2.0 years, height: 176.8 ± 6.1 cm, mass: 79.6 ± 8.8 kg) chewed either caffeinated gum (3 mg/kg) or a placebo gum on two occasions, 1 week apart. After a standardized warm-up, participants chewed the gum for 5 min before performing maximal strength test (one-repetition maximum [1RM]) and muscular endurance test (60% 1RM repetitions to failure) for bench press and back squat exercises. 1RM, number of repetitions, ratings of perceived exertion and pain perception were assessed.

Results

Caffeinated chewing gum significantly improved 1RM in both bench press (105.3 ± 14.5 vs. 100.3 ± 13.4 kg, +5.0% [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.7–6.3%], p < 0.01) and back squat (172.3 ± 20.2 vs. 161.9 ± 22.3 kg, +6.8% [95%CI: 4.1–9.5%], p < 0.01) exercises with small effect size (Cohen’s d: 0.36 [95%CI: 0.09–0.63] and 0.49 [95%CI: 0.22–0.76], respectively), despite similar levels of pain perception and RPE (p > 0.05). It also increased the number of repetitions in both bench press (20 ± 5 vs. 17 ± 4, +18.8% [95%CI: 11.5–26.1%], p < 0.01) and back squat (37 ± 11 vs. 28 ± 8, +33.3% [95%CI: 23.1–43.4%], p < 0.01) exercises with moderate-to-large effect size (Cohen’s d: 0.76 [95%CI: 0.48–1.03] and 0.89 [95%CI: 0.60–1.16], respectively), despite similar levels of pain perception and RPE (p > 0.05).

Discussion

Caffeinated chewing gum (3 mg/kg) improved both maximal strength and muscular endurance during bench press and back squat exercises in resistance-trained men. This approach offers a practical and time-efficient method to improve training performance while minimizing the risk of side effects.
Advances in the treatment of glioma-related signaling pathways and mechanisms by metformin
Authors: Ma Xingyuan , Sun Chao , Ding Xiao , Zhang Yuhang , Deng Tingzhen , Wang Yatao , Yang Haijun , Ding Ruiwen , Li Haotian , Wang Dawen , Zheng Maohua
Published: January 2025

Metformin (MET) is a commonly used drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in the department of endocrinology. In recent years, due to the few clinically effective treatment options including glioma, some scholars have proposed the possibility of metformin in the treatment of glioma, and studies have shown that metformin has a certain inhibitory effect on this tumor. This review explores the multiple mechanisms through which metformin exerts its antitumor effects, focusing on signaling pathways such as AMPK/mTOR, ferroptosis, autophagy, apoptosis and chloride ion channels (CLIC1). Metformin’s inhibition of glioma proliferation involves complex cellular processes, including mitochondrial dysfunction, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and modulation of immune responses. Additionally, metformin affects glioma stem cells by inhibiting key pathways, including STAT3, mTOR, and AKT, and altering the tumor microenvironment. While preclinical studies suggest that metformin enhances radiosensitivity and reduces tumor recurrence, its clinical application remains in early stages, with further studies needed to optimize dosing regimens and understand its full therapeutic potential. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of metformin’s molecular mechanisms in glioma treatment and highlights its potential as a novel therapeutic strategy, especially for treatment-resistant gliomas.
Development and validation of a machine learning model to predict the risk of lymph node metastasis in early-stage supraglottic laryngeal cancer
Authors: Wang Hongyu , He Zhiqiang , Xu Jiayang , Chen Ting , Huang Jingtian , Chen Lihong , Yue Xin
Published: January 2025

Background

Cervical lymph node metastasis (LNM) is a significant factor that leads to a poor prognosis in laryngeal cancer. Early-stage supraglottic laryngeal cancer (SGLC) is prone to LNM. However, research on risk factors for predicting cervical LNM in early-stage SGLC is limited. This study seeks to create and validate a predictive model through the application of machine learning (ML) algorithms.

Methods

The training set and internal validation set data were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Data from 78 early-stage SGLC patients were collected from Fujian Provincial Hospital for independent external validation. We identified four variables associated with cervical LNM and developed six ML models based on these variables to predict LNM in early-stage SGLC patients.

Results

In the two cohorts, 167 (47.44%) and 26 (33.33%) patients experienced LNM, respectively. Age, T stage, grade, and tumor size were identified as independent predictors of LNM. All six ML models performed well, and in both internal and independent external validations, the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) model outperformed the other models, with AUC values of 0.87 and 0.80, respectively. The decision curve analysis demonstrated that the ML models have excellent clinical applicability.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that combining ML algorithms with clinical data can effectively predict LNM in patients diagnosed with early-stage SGLC. This is the first study to apply ML models in predicting LNM in early-stage SGLC patients.
Population dynamics analysis of the interaction between tacrolimus and voriconazole in renal transplant recipients
Authors: Sun Zhi-Hua , Zhao Yi-Chang , Li Jia-Kai , Peng Fenghua , Yu Feng , Zhang Bi-Kui , Yan Miao
Published: January 2025

Background

The concurrent administration of tacrolimus and voriconazole in kidney transplant recipients can lead to drug interactions, potentially resulting in severe adverse reactions. This study aimed to establish a robust population pharmacokinetic model to explore the interaction between tacrolimus and voriconazole in greater depth.

Methods

Tacrolimus blood samples and laboratory data were prospectively collected from eligible patients enrolled between April 2023 and April 2024, following predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Using Phoenix (version 8.1), a pharmacokinetic prediction model was developed. Model performance was assessed using model fitting plots, bootstrap analysis, and visual predictive checks (VPC).

Results

This study ultimately included 51 eligible patients, with a total of 281 blood samples collected. Analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between voriconazole concentration (Cvrc) and tacrolimus volume of clearance rate (CL), a significant positive correlation between platelets (PLT) and tacrolimus clearance (CL), and a significant negative correlation between blood cells (RBC) and tacrolimus clearance (CL).

Conclusion

This study successfully established a population pharmacokinetic model for renal transplant patients concurrently receiving tacrolimus and voriconazole. The model demonstrated good predictive performance and offers valuable insights to clinicians for optimizing tacrolimus dosing in this patient population.