bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripheral blood immunoinflammatory biomarkers: prospective predictors of postoperative long-term survival and chronic postsurgical pain in breast cancer
Authors: Li Baoli , Che Li , Li Huixian , Min Fangdi , Ai Bolun , Wu Linxin , Wang Taihang , Tan Peixin , Fu Bingbing , Yang Jiashuo , Fang Yi , Zheng Hui , Yan Tao
Published: January 2025

Background

Tumor progression and chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) in patients with breast cancer are both significantly influenced by inflammation. The associations between immunoinflammatory biomarkers and long-term survival, as well as CPSP, remain ambiguous. This study examined the predictive value of immunoinflammatory biomarkers for both long-term survival and CPSP.

Methods

Data on the clinicopathological characteristics and perioperative peripheral blood immunoinflammatory biomarkers of 80 patients who underwent breast cancer surgery were retrospectively collected. Optimal cut-off values for preoperative immunoinflammatory biomarkers, including the preoperative systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV), were established via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Kaplan−Meier curves and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the relationships between preoperative immunoinflammatory biomarkers and long-term survival. The relationships among the perioperative neutrophil count (NEU), monocyte count (MONO), lymphocyte count (LYM), platelet count (PLT), SII, SIRI, NLR, PIV, dynamic changes in peripheral blood cell counts, and CPSP were further assessed using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Kaplan−Meier curves revealed a considerable prolongation of disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in the low preoperative SII, SIRI, NLR, and PIV groups. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that only an elevated preoperative SIRI was an independent risk factor for postoperative DFS (HR=8.890, P=0.038). The incidence of CPSP was 28.75%. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that body mass index (BMI), postoperative NEU, MONO, SIRI, and PIV were negatively correlated with the occurrence of CPSP, whereas subsequent multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that only BMI was independently associated with CPSP (OR=0.262, P=0.023).

Conclusion

Elevated preoperative SIRI was an independent risk factor for poor DFS in breast cancer patients after surgery. In contrast, perioperative immunoinflammatory biomarkers had limited potential for predicting CPSP in patients who underwent breast cancer surgery.
Interpretable machine learning and radiomics in hip MRI diagnostics: comparing ONFH and OA predictions to experts
Authors: Alkhatatbeh Tariq , Alkhatatbeh Ahmad , Guo Qin , Chen Jiechen , Song Jidong , Qin Xingru , Wei Wang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Distinguishing between Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) and Osteoarthritis (OA) can be subjective and vary between users with different backgrounds and expertise. This study aimed to construct and evaluate several Radiomics-based machine learning models using MRI to differentiate between those two disorders and compare their efficacies to those of medical experts.

Methods

140 MRI scans were retrospectively collected from the electronic medical records. They were split into training and testing sets in a 7:3 ratio. Handcrafted radiomics features were harvested following the careful manual segmentation of the regions of interest (ROI). After thoroughly selecting these features, various machine learning models have been constructed. The evaluation was carried out using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Then NaiveBayes (NB) was selected to establish our final Radiomics-model as it performed the best. Three users with different expertise and backgrounds diagnosed and labeled the dataset into either OA or ONFH. Their results have been compared to our Radiomics-model.

Results

The amount of handcrafted radiomics features was 1197 before processing; after the final selection, only 12 key features were retained and used. User 1 had an AUC of 0.632 (95% CI 0.4801-0.7843), User 2 recorded an AUC of 0.565 (95% CI 0.4102-0.7196); while User 3 was on top with an AUC of 0.880 (95% CI 0.7753-0.9843). On the other hand, the Radiomics model attained an AUC of 0.971 (95% CI 0.9298-1.0000); showing greater efficacy than all other users. It also demonstrated a sensitivity of 0.937 and a specificity of 0.885. DCA (Decision Curve Analysis displayed that the radiomics-model had a greater clinical benefit in differentiating OA and ONFH.

Conclusion

We have successfully constructed and evaluated an interpretable radiomics-based machine learning model that could distinguish between OA and ONFH. This method has the ability to aid both junior and senior medical professionals to precisely diagnose and take prompt treatment measures.
Diagnostics of lung cancer by fragmentated blood circulating cell-free DNA based on machine learning methods
Authors: Meshkov Ivan O. , Koturgin Alexander P. , Ershov Pavel V. , Safonova Liubov A. , Remizova Julia A. , Maksyutina Valentina V. , Maralova Ekaterina D. , Astafieva Vasilisa A. , Ivashechkin Alexey A. , Ignatiev Boris D. , Makhotenko Antonida V. , Snigir Ekaterina A. , Makarov Valentin V. , Yudin Vladimir S. , Keskinov Anton A. , Yudin Sergey M. , Makarova Anna S. , Skvortsova Veronika I.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Minimally invasive diagnostics based on liquid biopsy makes it possible early detection of lung cancer (LC). The blood plasma circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) fragments reflect the genome and chromatin status and are considered as integral cancer biomarkers and the biological entities for ‘cancer-of-origin’ prediction. The aim of this work is to create a method for processing next-generation sequencing (NGS) data and an interpretable binary classification model (CM), which analyzed cfDNA fragmentation features for distinguishing healthy subjects and subjects with LC.

Methods

148 healthy subjects and 138 subjects with LC were included in the study. cfDNA fractions, isolated from blood plasma biospecimens, were used for DNA libraries preparations and NGS on the NovaSeq 6,000 Illumina system with a coverage of 100 million reads/sample. Twelve variables, describing the abundance and length distribution of cfDNA fragments within each genomic interval, and 40 variables based on the values of position-weight matrices, describing combinations of 5-bp-long terminal motifs of cfDNA fragments, were used to characterize genomic fragmentation. Classification models of the first phase of machine learning were based either on logistic regression with L1- and L2-regularization or were probabilistic CMs based on Gaussian processes. The second phase CM was based on kernel logistic regression.

Results

The final CM can distinguish healthy subjects and subjects with LC with AUC values of 0.872–0.875. The performance of developed CM was evaluated using datum and testing sets for each LC stage category. Sensitivity values ranged from 66.7 to 85.7%, from 77.8 to 100%, and from 70 to 80% for LC stages I, II, and III, respectively. Specificity values ranged from 79.3 to 90.0%.

Discussion

Thus, the CM has a good diagnostic value and does not require clinical or other data on tumor-associated biomarkers. The current method for LC detection has some advantages for future clinical implementation as a decision-making support system due to the performance of the CM requires data exclusively from NGS-analysis of blood plasma cfDNA fragmentation; the accuracy of the CM does not depend on any additional clinical data; the CM is highly interpretable and traceable; CM has appropriate modular architecture.
Unveiling risk factors: a prognostic model of frequent peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Xu Qi-jiang , Zang Zhi-yun , Zhou Xue-li , Ma Ni-ya , Pu Li , Li Zi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PDAP) is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. The aim of this study was to construct a risk prediction model for frequent episodes in PDAP patients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included PDAP patients in our center from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2021. The risk prediction model for frequent episodes in PDAP patients was constructed by the binary logistic regression.

Results

We included 371 PDAP patients, of which 235 patients had single episode and 136 had frequent episodes. We randomly allocated the patients into training set (296 patients) and test set (75 patients) in the ratio of 8:2. In the training set, we found several independent risk factors significantly associated with frequent episodes in PDAP patients, including diabetes mellitus (DM), hemoglobin (HB), serum albumin (ALB), lactatic dehydrogenase (LDH), serum potassium (K), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and peritoneal dialysate white cell counts on day 1. And we constructed a prediction model with an area under curve (AUC) values of 0.75 in the training set and 0.76 in the test set, which showed excellent predictive performance.

Conclusion

We constructed a predictive model that demonstrated excellent predictive performance for identifying high-risk frequent episodes in PDAP patients and developed a more intuitive nomogram for evaluating the risk. However, multicenter studies with a larger sample size are warranted to validate the model in the future.
Handgrip strength as a potential indicator of aging: insights from its association with aging-related laboratory parameters
Authors: Kemala Sari Nina , Stepvia Stepvia , Ilyas Muhana Fawwazy , Setiati Siti , Harimurti Kuntjoro , Fitriana Ika
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The aging process is frequently associated with a decline in functional capacity, endurance, muscle quality, and overall quality of life. Examining aging-related biomarkers often requires significant time and financial resources, underscoring the need for a straightforward and practical indicator. This study aims to investigate the association between handgrip strength and aging-related laboratory parameters in the elderly population of Indonesia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 109 participants aged 60–82 years. Handgrip strength was measured using a Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer and Jamar PLUS+ digital dynamometer. Aging-related laboratory biomarkers were defined as those indicating physiological aging processes.

Results

The study revealed a significant association between handgrip strength and several aging-related laboratory parameters, including leukocyte count, absolute neutrophil count, absolute lymphocyte count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Discussion

These findings suggest that handgrip strength could serve as a cost-effective, non-invasive predictor of aging-related health status in older adults. Its practical utility highlights its potential for guiding health interventions targeting the elderly population.
Efficacy and safety of pseudolaric acid B against Echinococcus multilocularis in vitro and in a murine infection model
Authors: Dawa Zhuo-ma , Zhai Ting , Liu Chuan-chuan , Fan Hai-ning
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a chronic zoonotic disease caused by the larvae of the Echinococcus multilocularis (E. multilocularis). The current chemotherapy for AE relies on albendazole and mebendazole, which exhibit only parasitostatic rather than parasiticidal effects. Therefore, there is a need to find new anti-Echinococcosis drugs. Pseudolaric acid B (PAB) has been described to have strong antiparasitic effects. However, the in-depth mechanism by which PAB acts against E. multilocularis remains unclear.

Methods

To evaluate the effect of a PAB intervention on protoscoleces, metacestode vesicles and germinal cells in E. multilocularis in vitro. In addition, the effects of PAB on T lymphocyte and collagen synthesis were evaluated after PAB administration in a mouse model.

Results

Metacestode vesicles and germinal cells were successfully cultured, and specific genes were amplified via RT-PCR to identify the protoscoleces, vesicles, and germinal cells as the sources of E. multilocularis. In vitro studies have demonstrated that PAB exhibits dose- and concentration-dependent cytotoxicity against E. multilocularis protoscoleces. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the microvilli structure of the protoscolex was destroyed and the rostellar hooks had fallen off. PAB induced. The release of PGI from the metacestode vesicles, leading to the structural destruction of the inner surfaces. PAB suppressed the proliferation of germinal cells. After PAB treatment, the serum and the host tissue surrounding the metacestodes IFN-γ levels were upregulated and the IL-4 and IL-10 levels was downregulated. After PAB treatment, the levels of CD4+ T lymphocytes increased and the levels of CD8+ T lymphocytes decreased in the host tissue surrounding the metacestodes and the spleen. The proportions of the Th1 and Th17 cell subpopulations were increased and the proportion of Th2 cell and Treg cell subpopulations was decreased in the host tissue surrounding the metacestodes. Additionally, collagen deposition was increased after PAB treatment. PAB suppressed the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs 1, 2, 3, 9, 13) and the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the host tissue surrounding the metacestodes.

Conclusion

PAB has a significant killing effect on E. multilocularis, suggesting that it is a potential candidate for the treatment of AE.
Application and progress of nomograms in gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Haiyu , Ding Yumin , Zhuang Min , Li Kaixu , Zhao Shujing , Li Dehong
Published: January 2025

Gastric cancer, as one of the malignant tumors with a significant disease burden globally, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and personalized treatment for improving patient prognosis. In recent years, clinical prediction models (CPMs) have played a crucial role in predicting disease risks, assisting medical decision-making, and evaluating clinical prognosis and benefits as tools for risk–benefit assessment. Nomograms, as an important visualization form of clinical prediction models, have been increasingly applied in tumor-related research. Numerous studies have constructed multiple nomogram models by integrating clinical, pathological, laboratory, imaging data, and genetic characteristics, providing an accurate and effective tool for predicting the risk of gastric cancer, early diagnosis, treatment response assessment, and prognosis analysis. This article aims to review the current clinical applications and research progress of nomograms in gastric cancer, with the goal of providing robust references and theoretical support for clinical practice.
The clinical features and outcomes of diabetes patients infected with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis comprising 192,693 patients
Authors: Liu Kai , Liu Shu , Xu Ting-ting , Qiao Hong
Published: January 2025

Objectives

We sought to explore the relevance of analyses that include critical laboratory parameters and drug treatment, clinical characteristics of diabetic patients who are infected with COVID-19, to the development of individualized treatment strategies for diabetic patients infected with COVID-19.

Methods

We searched Cochrane, Embase, FMRS, Pubmed, Springer, Web of Science databases for systematic reviews and meta-analyses to estimate the clinical characteristics and prognosis of confirmed covid-19 infections in patients with and without diabetes.

Results

Our meta-analysis included a total of 32 studies with 192,693 COVID-19 patients. Common comorbidities in the diabetic group were hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. We discovered that white blood cell count, neutrophil count, inflammatory marker levels, D-dimer, urea, precursor of the brain natriuretic peptide (Pro-BNP) increased and lymphocyte count, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albumin decreased significantly in the diabetic group in laboratory test results. Compared with the non-diabetic group, the diabetic group had a higher incidence of complications in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), shock, acute heart injury, acute kidney injury and more regularly used oxygen therapy, invasive ventilation, non-invasive ventilation, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment. Mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization rates were highest in the diabetic group than in the non-diabetic group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Diabetic patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have an increased risk of death, lower discharge rates, and higher ICU admission rates. Their presence of hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease (CKD), higher levels of inflammatory markers. Multiple complications are all predictors of poor outcomes in people with diabetes. Our findings will help identify elevated risk factors in diabetics, which will benefit early prediction.
Temporal trends and future projections of incidence rate and mortality for asthma in China: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Chen Xi , Ma Dandan , Li Hangyu , Liu Yilin , Xu Guixing , Deng Xinyu , Li Qi , Li Junqi , Pan Hui
Published: January 2025

Background

Asthma poses a significant public health burden in China, affecting millions with substantial incidence and mortality. Understanding the trends and future projections of asthma incidence and mortality is crucial for healthcare planning.

Methods

We analyzed asthma incidence and mortality data sourced from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study from 1990 to 2021, calculated the age-standardized incidence and mortality rates (ASIR and ASMR) and the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC), meanwhile, employed Joinpoint regression model to assess the trends. The age-period-cohort model was applied to estimate the effects of the age, period, and cohort on the incidence and mortality. Finally, future asthma trends for the next 25 years were predicted utilizing the Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model.

Results

Over the past three decades, the incidence rate declined in waves while the mortality declined steadily. The ASIR of asthma decreased from 524.81 to 364.17 and the ASMR declined from 5.82 to 1.47. ASIR and ASMR are consistently higher in males than females during this period. The effect attributable to age on incidence was higher for the younger age group while the mortality was higher for older. The period ratio rate of incidence and mortality declined with the calendar year, and the corrections between birth cohort and the risk of incidence and mortality were negative. Our projections indicate that the ASIR and ASMR will continue to decrease by 2046, with expected rates of 330 and 0.69, respectively. Instead, the absolute number of asthma incidence cases and deaths may increase to approximately 4.5 million and 80,000, respectively.

Conclusion

Although asthma incidence rates and mortality have generally declined in China, the burden remains significant, especially among vulnerable groups, with higher rates in males. Continuous monitoring and age-targeted interventions are essential. Future healthcare strategies must address the aging population to manage the projected increase in asthma cases and deaths.
Effect of potato glycoside alkaloids on mitochondria energy metabolism of Fusarium solani, the root rot pathogen of Lycium barbarum
Authors: Li Ruiyun , Wang Bin , Chen Wei , Zhang Chongqing , Li Nan , Wang Yupeng , Yan Yuke , Sun Yuyan , He Jing
Published: January 2025

Fusarium solani is a widely distributed pathogenic fungus that can cause soil borne diseases in various plants and is also one of the main pathogenic bacteria of Lycium barbarum root rot. This study employed tandem mass labeling (TMT) quantitative proteomics technology to investigate the antifungal mechanism of potato glycoside alkaloids (PGA) against Fusarium solani. We elucidated the antifungal mechanism of PGA from the perspective of mitochondrial proteome molecular biology. Furthermore, we identified and annotated the differentially expressed proteins (DEP) of F. solani under PGA stress. A total of 2,412 DEPs were identified, among which 1,083 were significantly up-regulated and 1,329 significantly down-regulated. Subsequent analysis focused on five DEPs related to energy metabolism for verification at both protein and gene levels. Gene Ontology (GO) function analysis revealed that the DEPs were primarily involved in the integral component of the membrane, intrinsic component of the membrane, pyridine-containing compound metabolic processes, carbon-oxygen lyase activity, and the endoplasmic reticulum, with a notable enrichment in membrane components. Furthermore, a total of 195 pathways were identified through KEGG analysis, with significant enrichment in critical pathways including pentose and glucuronate interconversions, propanoate metabolism, various types of N-glycan biosynthesis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms. The results from both parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) and real-time RT-qPCR were consistent with the overall trends observed in TMT proteomics, thereby confirming the validity of the TMT proteomics analysis. These findings indicate that PGA inhibits the growth of F. solani by impacting mitochondrial energy metabolism. This study reveals the antifungal mechanism of PGA from the perspective of energy metabolism, providing a theoretical basis for the development and application of PGA as a biopesticide.
The gut microbiota regulates diabetic retinopathy in adult rats
Authors: Hou Jueyu , Lv Zhongping , Wang Yujiao , Chen Danian
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common complication of diabetes. Neuronal apoptosis, activated microglia, and microvascular changes are early features of DR. The gut microbiota is critical for the maturation and activation of microglia in the brain, and DR patients exhibit gut dysbiosis. However, the effect of the gut microbiota on retinal microglia under normal or diabetic conditions is still unclear.

Methods

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) was established in male adult Brown Norway (BN) rats, and they were treated with gavage of broad-spectrum antibiotic (ABX) suspension. Retinal fundus fluorescein angiography was performed to observe the dynamic growth process and leakage of blood vessels. Retro-orbital injection of FITC-Dextran was performed to observe the changes in blood-retinal barriers. After treatment with ABX and diabetes lasting for more than 6 months, 16S RNA sequencing of stool samples was performed to determine changes in the gut microbiome and mass spectrometry was used to analyze metabolome changes. IBA1, IB4, and Brn3 staining were performed on adult rats’ retinal wholemount or sections to observe the changes in microglia, blood vessels and the number of ganglion cells.

Results

Long-term (6 months) T2D caused gut dysbiosis with increased average taxa numbers. We showed that broad-spectrum antibiotics (ABXs) gavage can reduce the average number of gut microbiota taxa and retinal microglia in adult male BN rats with or without T2D. Interestingly, adult male BN rats with T2D for more than 6 months showed a loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) without significant changes in retinal microglia or retinal vascular vessels. However, ABX gavage reduced retinal microglia and alleviated RGC damage in these T2D rats.

Conclusion

Our data suggests that ABX gavage-induced gut dysbiosis can reduce retinal microglia in adult rats and alleviate RGC loss in long-term T2D rats. Targeting the gut microbiota may be a future therapeutic strategy for DR management.
Genome analysis of colistin-resistant Salmonella isolates from human sources in Guizhou of southwestern China, 2019–2023
Authors: Wu Jingtong , Wen Yongxian , You Lv , Wei Xiaoyu , Wang Junhua , Zhu Ge , Li Shijun
Published: January 2025

Background

Colistin is commonly used as a last-resort antibiotic for multidrug resistance (MDR) bacterial infections. The emergence of colistin-resistant (CL-R) Salmonella has become a significant public health concern. However, the prevalence of CL-R Salmonella in Guizhou province remains unknown. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor CL-R Salmonella in Guizhou and systematically elucidate their characteristics-related resistance, virulence, and molecular epidemiology to develop effective public health strategies against resistant pathogens.

Methods

The CL-R Salmonella isolates were identified from 933 Salmonella isolates by antimicrobial resistance testing. To further evaluate the molecular epidemiology, the CL-R Salmonella isolates underwent whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis followed by bioinformatic analysis.

Results

A total of 43 CL-R isolates (4.6%) were identified from 933 Salmonella isolates, of which 39 isolates being MDR (resistance to three or more classes of antimicrobials). WGS analysis revealed 34 antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and point mutations in the gyrA gene (D87Y and D87G) were identified in all 43 CL-R isolates. Only one isolate carried the mcr-1.1 gene, a known colistin resistance. All CL-R isolates were found to carry multidrug efflux pumps. Furthermore, the most common resistance gene was aac(6′)-ly (40 out of 43), followed by blaTEM-1 (39 out of 43). The majority of CL-R isolates contained the virulence factor spvB and a notable diversity in other virulence factors with varied functions. Core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) revealed that 43 CL-R Salmonella isolates were divided into 19 cgSTs, with cgST179151 (10 out of 43) being the most prevalent. Additionally, the CL-R Salmonella isolates exhibited genetic similarities with human Salmonella isolates from Poland, Canada, and Zhejiang province. Among the 42 CL-R isolates lacking markers for CL-R, 12 single-nucleotide variations (SNVs) were observed in 24 isolates using genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis, which was possibly associated with colistin resistance.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the majority of CL-R Salmonella isolates in Guizhou province exhibited MDR, with complex resistance mechanisms, representing a significant public health challenge. The genetic similarities between isolates from Guizhou and other regions suggested the possibility of international transmission or shared reservoirs of resistance. These results highlighted the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and effective public health strategies to address the risks posed by these pathogens in Guizhou.
Cellular and immune landscape of chronic liver diseases: insights from immunophenotyping
Authors: Soleimani Shaghayegh , Albayrak Ozgur , Somay Kayra , Yang Hong , Yigit Buket , Ulukan Burge , Atak Dila , Akyildiz Murat , Gursoy Metehan , Demirtas Elif , Mardinoglu Adil , Vural Atay , Dayangac Murat , Zeybel Mujdat
Published: January 2025

Background

Chronic liver disease due to alcohol-related liver disease and chronic viral hepatitis pose a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Chronic liver disease may predispose to hepatocellular carcinoma, for which therapeutic options are limited. This study aimed to explore the immune cell characteristics of the clinical conditions.

Methods

Explant liver samples were collected from 25 patients for bulk RNA sequencing and flow cytometry analysis. Immune cell populations were characterized by flow cytometry from isolated hepatic and peripheral mononuclear cells.

Results

Significant differences in immune cell characteristics were observed among patients with three clinical conditions. Viral hepatitis and peri-tumor samples exhibited higher hepatic B cell counts compared to alcohol-related liver disease. Additionally, chronic liver disease patients showed higher levels of CD57+ T cells, suggestive of T cell differentiation. Differential expression analysis identified several genes associated with immune regulation, including downregulation of CD27 and upregulation of granzyme B in ARLD, consistent with a highly differentiated phenotype. LAG3 and PDCD1 were upregulated in peri-tumor samples. The NK cell count was lower in peri-tumor liver specimens compared to ARLD, and an upregulation of TIGIT, an inhibitory marker, was observed in those peri-tumor specimens.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the understanding of immune dynamics in chronic liver disease among different etiologies. B lymphocytes are relatively reduced in alcohol-related liver disease compared to other groups, and T cells exhibit a more differentiated subtype. The peritumor microenvironment in HCC suggests a relatively diminished presence of NK cells and a potential tendency toward increased inhibitory characteristics.
Multi-functional role of apolipoprotein E in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Islam Sadequl , Noorani Arshad , Sun Yang , Michikawa Makoto , Zou Kun
Published: January 2025

Genetic diversity in the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene has been identified as the major susceptibility genetic risk factor for sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (SAD). Specifically, the ApoEε4 allele is a significant risk factor for SAD, while ApoEε2 allele provides protection compared to the more common ApoEε3 allele. This review discusses the role of the ApoE in AD and other neurodegenerative disorders. ApoE, a cholesterol transport protein, influences several pathways involved in neurodegeneration, particularly in AD. Beyond its established role in amyloid β-protein (Aβ) metabolism and deposition, ApoE also impacts tau pathology, neurodegeneration, and the microglial response to AD. The review aims to provide an updated overview of ApoE’s diverse roles, emphasizing its involvement in Aβ clearance through ApoE receptors. It also covers ApoE’s influence in other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), Huntington’s disease (HD), vascular dementia (VD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). New research highlights the interaction between ApoE and presenilin (PS), suggesting connections between familial AD (FAD) and SAD. The review also explores protective effects of ApoE mutations against AD and ApoE4-induced tauopathy, neurodegeneration, and neuroinflammation. The insights from this comprehensive update could indeed lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Tailoring robot-assisted arm training to individuals with stroke: bridging neuroscience principles and clinical practice
Authors: Morone Giovanni , Tramontano Marco , Paolucci Stefano , Cerasa Antonio , Ciancarelli Irene , Martino Cinnera Alex , Iosa Marco , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: January 2025

Robot-assisted arm training (RAAT) has demonstrated promising potential in improving rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with neurological conditions, particularly stroke. Despite 20 years of their use in clinical and research settings, there are still significant needs to be made concerning clinical indications. In the present perspective manuscript, we provide some hypotheses of the suitability of different RAAT according to the features of the available devices and clinical characteristics, showing their limitations and strengths. Several factors were considered in the optimization of RAAT intervention, including the technological characteristics of the devices (e.g., support and constriction), the residual upper limb motor function, and the clinical phase of stroke. Finally, we outline key areas for improvement to advance the field in the near future and provide neuroscientific bases for hypotheses of tailored RAAT training to improve the outcome of robotic rehabilitation.
Extracranial carotid plaque calcification and its association with risk factors for cerebrovascular events: insights from the ANTIQUE study
Authors: Pakizer David , Šalounová Dana , Školoudík David
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Extracranial carotid calcification is a common marker of advanced atherosclerosis. However, its impact on stroke risk is not consistent across studies, and examining the type of calcification and the presence of systemic diseases might be helpful. We aimed to investigate extracranial carotid calcification and its association with risk factors for ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.

Materials and methods

Among 1,863 consecutive patients in the Atherosclerotic Plaque Characteristics Associated with a Progression Rate of the Plaque and a Risk of Stroke in Patients with the Carotid Bifurcation Plaque Study (ANTIQUE), 132 symptomatic or asymptomatic patients (177 carotid plaques) with >30% carotid stenosis examined through computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were included. Statistical data were assessed using the χ2-test, Fisher’s exact test, t-test, and Mann–Whitney test to investigate the calcification risk factors.

Results

Compared to the absence of calcifications, spotty calcifications were associated with male sex [odds ratio (OR): 3.72, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–13.05], while large calcifications were associated with older patients (OR: 1.60 per 5 years of age, 95% CI: 1.20–2.13). Large calcifications were also strongly associated with coronary heart disease (OR: 4.07, 95% CI: 1.15–14.44) and atrial fibrillation (p = 0.025). In comparison between only spotty and large calcifications, spotty calcifications were associated with male sex (OR: 3.72, 95% CI: 1.06–13.05), smoking (p = 0.020) in more significant quantities (p = 0.014), and lipid plaque (p < 0.001), while large calcifications with contralateral stenosis degree (p = 0.044). No significant relationship was found between cerebrovascular events and the type of calcification.

Conclusion

Although the presence and type of extracranial carotid calcification were not related to ipsilateral ischemic events, large calcifications were strongly associated with coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02360137.
PilotCareTrans Net: an EEG data-driven transformer for pilot health monitoring
Authors: Zhao Kun , Guo Xueying
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In high-stakes environments such as aviation, monitoring cognitive, and mental health is crucial, with electroencephalogram (EEG) data emerging as a keytool for this purpose. However traditional methods like linear models Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) architectures often struggle to capture the complex, non-linear temporal dependencies in EEG signals. These approaches typically fail to integrate multi-scale features effectively, resulting in suboptimal health intervention decisions, especially in dynamic, high-pressure environments like pilot training.

Methods

To overcome these challenges, this study introduces PilotCareTrans Net, a novel Transformer-based model designed for health intervention decision-making in aviation students. The model incorporates dynamic attention mechanisms, temporal convolutional layers, and multi-scale feature integration, enabling it to capture intricate temporal dynamics in EEG data more effectively. PilotCareTrans Net was evaluated on multiple public EEG datasets, including MODA, STEW, SJTUEmotion EEG, and Sleep-EDF, where it outperformed state-of-the-art models in key metrics.

Results and discussion

The experimental results demonstrate the model's ability to not only enhance prediction accuracy but also reduce computational complexity, making it suitable for real-time applications in resource-constrained settings. These findings indicate that PilotCareTrans Net holds significant potential for improving cognitive health monitoring and intervention strategies in aviation, thereby contributing to enhanced safety and performance in critical environments.
Optimization of TMS target engagement: current state and future perspectives
Authors: Lioumis Pantelis , Roine Timo , Granö Ida , Aydogan Dogu Baran , Ukharova Elena , Souza Victor H. , Kičić Dubravko , Ilmoniemi Risto J. , Makris Nikos
Published: January 2025

Neuromodulation is based on the principle that brain stimulation produces plastic changes in cerebral circuitry. Given the intersubject structural and functional variability, neuromodulation has a personalized effect in the brain. Moreover, because of cerebral dominance and interhemispheric functional and structural differences in the same individual, the characterization of specific brain circuitries involved is currently not feasible. This notion is extremely important for neuromodulation treatments applied in neuropsychiatry. Specifically, the efficacy of the neuromodulation treatments is critically dependent on the anatomical precision of the brain target and the circuitry which has been affected by the TMS intervention. Furthermore, for a complete understanding of how the brain behaves under stimulation, the characterization of its neurophysiological response is necessary as well. This goal can be achieved with TMS–EEG guided by current multimodal neuroimaging techniques in real time, namely MRI-based anatomical segmentation and diffusion MRI-based tractographic analysis.
Association between vitamin levels and geriatric hip fractures: A cross-sectional study
Authors: He Qifei , Zhang Chun , Xie Wei , Deng Zhaoqiang , Yang Shiwei , Li Xia , Sun Wei
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Geriatric hip fractures, known as osteoporotic fractures, are associated with nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin D (VitD). However, the relationship between other vitamins besides VitD and fracture is still lacking. Therefore, we intended to identify various vitamin levels and deficiencies in elderly patients with hip fractures and compared those with healthy elderly individuals.

Methods

A total of 210 geriatric hip fracture continuous patients and 402 healthy elderly individuals aged ≥65 years old and with complete serum vitamin records were enrolled in this study. The levels of serum VitA, VitB1, VitB2, VitB3, VitB5, VitB6, VitB9, VitE, VitK1, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-HO-VitD) and nutritional markers, such as prognostic nutritional index (PNI), were compared between geriatric hip fracture patients and healthy control. The correlation between vitamin level and the nutritional markers was explored. A multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between vitamin levels and hip fracture.

Results

The levels of VitA, VitB1, VitB3, VitB5, VitB9, 25-HO-VitD, 25-HO-VitD3, E, and K1 were all lower in the hip fracture group (p < 0.05). More than 80% of older persons suffered 25-HO-VitD deficiency in both healthy and fracture groups. A positive correlation between levels of VitA and nutritional markers existed in the fracture and healthy groups. In regression analysis, the association strength between standardized vitamin levels and fracture was the most significant in VitB9 (β = −0.94; 95%CI, −1.15 to −0.73; p < 0.001), VitA (β = −0.83; 95%CI, −1.04 to −0.61; p < 0.001), and VitK1 (β = −0.80; 95%CI, −1.02 to −0.58; p < 0.001), with no significant statistic difference found in VitB2, VitB9, 25-HO-VitD2, and 25-HO-VitD3.

Conclusion

Vitamin D deficiency is common in elderly people with or without fracture. The levels of VitA, VitB9, and VitK1, instead of VitD, were much lower in fracture patients than in the healthy control, even controlling age and gender. VitA is a potential target for hip fracture prevention.
The influence of school location and their children's nutritional model on the risk of obesity in Poland- pilot study
Authors: Długoński Łukasz , Platta Anna , Skotnicka Magdalena
Published: January 2025

Problems with overweight and obesity during childhood and adolescence are associated with negative health effects that can impact a lifetime. Eating habits and lifestyles formed early in life influence our health in the future. These habits are difficult to change and often persist into adulthood. The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of residence and school attendance on the occurrence of childhood overweight and obesity. The survey, in the form of a questionnaire, was conducted among mothers or legal guardians of children attending public primary schools in the Pomeranian Voivodeship in Poland. A total of 515 individuals participated in the study. The questionnaire was prepared based on the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ). The study showed that children living in rural areas are more prone to developing obesity and overweight. Among children living in rural areas, 46.89% are overweight, while in cities, 40.85% are overweight. Regarding children suffering from obesity, the percentage of those attending rural schools is 15.79%, while only 1.63% of obese children attend urban schools. Additionally, it was shown that children from rural areas more frequently exhibit poor eating habits and incorrect dietary patterns and behaviors, which mainly include eating lunch at school and simultaneously consuming nutrient-dense at home. Among children from rural areas, 74.07% consume sweets without restrictions, compared to only 25.93% of children from cities. The unrestricted consumption of salty snacks by children attending rural schools is as high as 75.64%, compared to 24.36% for children attending urban schools. The results of the current study indicate that residence and school attendance can determine the risk of developing overweight and obesity. Our findings show that children from rural areas have a high rate of obesity, highlighting the necessity to propose new solutions and tools to support proper nutrition, with particular emphasis on children from rural environments.
A review on the microbiology of Ethiopian traditional fermented beverage products
Authors: Mulaw Guesh , Gebregziabher Trhas , Tesfay Teklemichael
Published: January 2025

Traditional fermented beverages are drinks produced locally on the basis of ethnic knowledge and consumed nearby the locality of production. Ethiopia is a country where a wide variety of traditional fermented beverages are prepared and consumed. Tella, borde, shamita, korefe, cheka, tej, booka, grawa, areki, and keribo are among the traditional fermented beverages in Ethiopia. This review paper highlights the fermentation process and nutritional value of traditional fermented beverages, microorganisms involved in the traditionally ferreted beverages, the nutritional value and shelf-life of fermented beverages, as well as the bioavailability and safety by collecting recent research articles. These traditional fermented beverages significantly enhance health due to the presence of bioactive compounds and their nutritional value relatively greater than those of nonfermented beverages. The fermentation byproducts of yeast and Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) increase the acidity of beverages and are crucial for maintaining the quality and characteristics of fermented beverages. It also helps to reduce the amount of toxins and pathogens in food. Similarly, fermented foods contain probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help the body to digest food and absorb nutrients. The fermented foods and beverages are important in preventing non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal tissues, immune disorders, and cancer. Overall, the paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge and tradition on Ethiopian fermented beverages.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction of polyphenols from Lonicera japonica leaves and their α-glucosidase inhibition
Authors: Li Gang , Bao Chunming , Zhang Hao , Bai Lu
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The search for natural bioactive compounds that act as α-glucosidase inhibitors is a central focus in diabetes treatment research.

Methods

This study utilized ultrasonic-assisted extraction to optimize the extraction of polyphenols from honeysuckle leaves through response surface methodology (RSM). Enzyme inhibition and fluorescence quenching experiments were conducted to examine the inhibitory activity and binding behavior of the extracted polyphenols.

Results

The results indicated that the optimal conditions for polyphenol extraction were as follows: ethanol concentration, 64%, liquid–solid ratio, 45 mL/g, ultrasonic power, 700 W, ultrasonic time, 6 min. Under these conditions, the yield of polyphenols from honeysuckle leaves was 9.16 ± 0.19%, which closely aligns with the predicted value of 9.18%. The total phenolic content of the polyphenol extracts was 20.6 ± 0.67%, with chlorogenic acid and luteoloside contents measuring 5.65 ± 0.40% and 2.51 ± 0.14%, respectively. The inhibitory effect of polyphenol extracts (IC50, 0.14 ± 0.01 mg/mL) on α-glucosidase was better than that of chlorogenic acid (IC50, 0.55 ± 0.02 mg/mL). Fluorescence quenching experiments indicated that the polyphenol extracts interact with α-glucosidase, resulting in alterations to the microenvironment of amino acid residues.

Discussion

This interaction can reduce the binding affinity between the substrate and α-glucosidase, thereby contributing to the objective of lowering postprandial hyperglycemia. Our research results can provide reference for the development and utilization of honeysuckle leaves.
Changes in hormone receptor when breast cancer metastasizes to the colon: case report and literature review
Authors: Li Huimeng , Yang Liying , Sun Xiqiang , Wang Zhuquan , Qin Shuangwei , Li Chengcheng , Liu Gongwu , Xie Fengming , Gao Weiwei
Published: January 2025

The metastasis of breast cancer to the colon is a rare occurrence, especially in the presence of changes in estrogen and progesterone receptors. To date, literature has only reported two cases of invasive ductal carcinoma and two cases of invasive lobular carcinoma metastasizing to the colon with concurrent changes in hormone receptors. This report describes a 65-year-old woman with a history of left breast cancer, who presented with symptoms of bloody stools and abdominal pain. CT and colonoscopy results revealed a malignant tumor in the ascending colon, and the patient underwent surgery. Pathological results post-surgery indicated changes in hormone receptors, differing from the previous breast cancer pathology, ultimately leading to the diagnosis of breast cancer metastasis to the colon. The patient was found to have liver metastasis 14 months after right hemicolectomy, and systemic metastases in various locations were discovered at the 19-month mark.