bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects and improvements of storage conditions and processing on the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of phytochemicals in fruits and vegetables
Authors: Jia Hanbing , Ren Feiyue , Liu Hongzhi
Published: January 2025

Phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables offer health benefits for degenerative diseases, but their bioaccessibility are often limited due to poor stability. Various environmental conditions such as temperature, moisture, pH, as well as different processing methods, significantly impact phytochemicals. These factors are becoming increasingly important in the food industry and are attracting the attention of many researchers. This review examines the advantages and disadvantages of mechanical processing, thermal processing, and non-thermal processing and their effects on content, bioaccessibility, antioxidant activity, and sensory properties of phytochemicals. Non-thermal processing is considered to have the potential to replace traditional thermal processing due to its lesser degradation of phytochemicals. The operations and effects of various non-thermal processing techniques, including high-pressure processing, high-pressure homogenization, pulsed electric field, ultrasound, supercritical carbon dioxide, cold atmospheric plasma, bioprocessing, and encapsulation, are reviewed. The aim of this review is to provide the latest information on processing for future research and innovation.
The effects of soybeans and its derivatives on oral diseases: a narrative review
Authors: Canyan Kuang , Arias Zulema Rosalia , Omori Kazuhiro , Yamamoto Tadashi , Shinoda-Ito Yuki , Takashiba Shogo
Published: January 2025

Soybean is a widely utilized protein source that originated in China and has been associated with preventing and treating various diseases. Soy protein has been found to inhibit fat accumulation effectively, and soybeans contain isoflavones, saponins, phytic acid, and other substances with preventive and therapeutic effects on heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Furthermore, processed soybean products, such as Avocado-Soybean unsaponifiable, Tempeh, and Bowman-Birk inhibitor, have demonstrated health benefits. These products have been shown to have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects in oral diseases. Numerous experiments have provided evidence of the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids, isoflavones, and soybean polypeptides. This comprehensive review assesses the relationship and mechanism of soybeans and their derivatives on oral diseases, providing valuable insights into their prevention and treatment.
Field verification of food quality monitoring in the cold chain by using a laccase time–temperature indicator label
Authors: Lin Ya-Chin , Chen Shih-Hsin , Lin Shih-Bin , Chen Hui-Huang
Published: January 2025

This study developed a laccase time–temperature indicator label (LTTIL) by immobilising laccase on electrospun fibres to form the LTTI film and reacted with guaiacol solution for colouration. Field verification was performed to validate the function of the LTTIL in monitoring food quality changes in the cold chain under temperature fluctuations. The time required to reach a total plate count of 6 log CFU/g was regarded as the critical point of fresh-cut cucumber (FCC) deterioration (CPTPC). A critical point of LTTIL colouration (CPLTTIL) was also set to indicate the significantly darker reddish brown of LTTIL. The field verification experiment revealed that when the LTTIL with 0.10 mM NaN3 was applied, the CPLTTIL was attained at 132.8 hr after the start of an experiment, whereas the CPTPC was attained at 139.2 hr, resulting in a low prediction error of approximately 4.6%. Therefore, the LTTIL is considered to be effectively used to monitor FCC quality changes in the cold chain and accurately evaluate their freshness.
Flavonoids of probiotic fermented plant beverage FH03F: potential antiobesity mechanisms: integrating metabolomics, network pharmacology, and molecular docking
Authors: Wang Ting , Yang Yunhan , Liang Honglian , Yu Yuanyuan , Wang Haoming , Wu Xiurong , Su Miaoting , Wang Jinghan , Yan Xiantao
Published: January 2025

Flavonoids can ameliorate lipid metabolism and prevent obesity. FH03F is a probiotic fermented plant beverage that is rich in flavonoids, but its antiobesity mechanism is not clear. This study aimed to explore the differences in flavonoids in FH03F after fermentation and its potential antiobesity mechanism via metabolomics, network pharmacology, and molecular docking. Metabolomics analysis revealed significant changes in FH03F flavonoids via fermentation, and 91 flavonoids were detected. Through network pharmacology, 28 flavonoids met the efficacious screening criteria, and 4 targets were core targets. Molecular docking revealed that quercetin, wogonin, and luteolin had lower binding energies with core targets than the other compounds did. In summary, FH03F flavonoids mainly exert antiobesity effects by regulating TP53, AKT1, IL6, and TNF expression, and regulating the AGE–RAGE signalling pathway in diabetic complications and other pathways, which means that FH03F flavonoids exert antiobesity effects through multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple pathways.
Stabilisation of groundnut oil with gallic acid and leaf extracts of Lonchocarpus sericeus and Lonchocarpus cyanescens
Authors: Falade Olumuyiwa Sunday , Afolabi Funmilayo Patricia , Aderogba Mutalib Adeniran , Adeyanju Ayotunde Adeyemi , Ajayi Olukayode Solomon
Published: January 2025

This study evaluated the antioxidant properties of two Lonchocarpus species leaf extracts. It also profiled the phenolic constituents of their active fractions using HPLC. Of the four solvent fractions obtained, ethyl acetate of Lonchocarpus cyanescens (LC) had the highest antioxidant activity (metal chelating ability [IC50], 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl hydrate [IC50], ferric reducing antioxidant power, total antioxidant capacity, total flavonoid content, and total phenolic content with 0.673 ± 0.061 μg/ml, 0.245 ± 0.007 μg/ml, 177.6 ± 3.7 mg AAE/g, 202.5 ± 3.6 mg AAE/g, 1,323.1 ± 16.7 μg CE/g, and 1244.3 ± μg GAE/g values, respectively). Processing of the groundnut oil was observed to compromise its natural defence system. Gallic acid was the best of the three antioxidant agents used to stabilise groundnut oil followed by the ethyl acetate fraction of LC, and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) the least. It can be concluded that gallic acid and ethyl acetate fraction of LC could be used to replace BHA implicated in aetiology of cancer but safety and acceptability of their use in vegetable oil should be investigated.
Gluten-free bread made with non-defatted ground walnuts: microstructural, technological and nutritional properties
Authors: Burbano Juan José , Gara Antonela David , Ferrero Cristina , Correa María Jimena
Published: January 2025

Non-defatted walnuts are interesting for developing gluten-free (GF) bread because they contain bioactive compounds and high concentrations of fibre and polyunsaturated fatty acids. This study aimed to determine the effects of the addition of non-defatted ground walnuts (10%, 20% and 30%) on the nutritional and technological quality of gluten-free breads. Furthermore, control bread (formulation without ground walnuts) and bread with 20% walnuts were selected for microstructure and sensory evaluation.

The addition of walnuts led to a significant increase in specific volume, affected crumb and crust colour and produced harder and crumblier crumbs. Despite these changes, the walnuts improved the nutritional and sensory properties of breads without affecting the starch gelatinization or protein stabilizing role (on air bubbles and lipid droplets). Lipid oxidation did not increase in breads containing walnuts at 10% and 20% level. These findings suggest that, even at high levels, non-defatted ground walnuts are a suitable ingredient for gluten-free bakery products.
Unveiling the effects of psyllium husk, mung bean protein, and transglutaminase on the quality characteristics of heat-moisture treated gluten-free rice pasta
Authors: Roger Raherison Aimé , Laohakunjit Natta , Uthairatanakij Apiradee , Vongsawasdi Punchira , Kaisangsri Nattapon , Selamassaku Orrapun
Published: January 2025

Developing gluten-free (GF) pasta remains a technological challenge. Creating GF pasta using heat moisture treatment (HMT) modified rice flour, psyllium husk (PH), mung bean protein (MBP), and transglutaminase (TG) was studied. Increasing the PH concentrations (0.75, 1.5, 2.25, and 3%) increased firmness and hardness, while decreasing the cooking loss of cooked GF pasta, then 2.25% PH was combined with varied MBP concentrations (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%), with or without 1% TG. Pasta with a 10% MBP, both with and without TG, increased firmness, texture profile, protein content, redness, yellowness, and porosity of the pasta. However, TG further modified protein secondary structure and network of MBP-enriched GF pasta. MBP lowered reducing sugar release during in vitro digestion of GF pasta, though it had minimal effect on significantly reducing cooking loss. These results showed that PH and MBP with or without TG offer a viable approach for improving quality characteristics of heat-moisture treated GF rice pasta.
A systematic exploration of the nutritional benefits and therapeutic potential of Mesembryanthemum forsskalii
Authors: Al-Otaibi Waad A , Al-Motwaa Sahar M
Published: January 2025

This systematic review highlights the urgent need to explore the nutritional and therapeutic potential of Samh, or Mesembryanthemum forskahlii Hochst. ex Boiss. (M. forskalii) in response to global health challenges and the growing interest in functional foods. Out of 184 records, thirty were chosen for the systematic review, comprising 24 articles and 6 books. The review revealed that 83.33% of the studies concentrated on samh seeds. A comprehensive analysis identified 128 distinctive compounds and categorized them into 10 classes, with amino acids being the most abundant, followed by phenolics, minerals, flavonoids, carboxylic acids, proteins and lipids. The review highlights various biological properties associated with seed extracts, including anti-diabetic properties, regulatory effects on triglycerides and cholesterol levels, and reductions in oxidative stress and gastrointestinal ulcers. The fruit extract was noted to enhance liver function in mice with CCl4-induced toxicity. Although the extract from Samh’s seeds did not show antimicrobial effects, silver nanoparticles derived from the extract were highly effective against bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, while preliminary findings suggest beneficial health effects, the limited toxicological research necessitates further investigation into the safety profile of M. forskahlii. Understanding the potential toxic effects and safe dosage levels is crucial, especially for populations using this plant as a traditional remedy or dietary supplement. This review emphasizes the potential of M. forskalii as a functional food that can enhance dietary diversity and promote well-being. The review advocates further research into all parts of the plant to harness their health-promoting potential fully, integrating traditional knowledge into contemporary nutritional practices.
Judicial review of competition law decisions: an empirical study of the Lithuanian context
Authors: Malinauskaite Jurgita
Published: January 2025

Commemorating the 20th anniversary since joining the European Union (EU) (together with an obligation to enforce EU competition law), this study evaluates national judgments reviewing the Lithuanian National Competition Council’s [known as Konkurencijos Taryba (KT)] decisions during the 2004–24 period. Building on comprehensive empirical research on judicial review of the KT’s decisions, which involved employing both quantitative and qualitative methods, this article aims to capture the main trends and patterns of judicial review in the Lithuanian context, with some comparison to other small European countries. The study covers the KT’s decisions in relation to the application of Articles 101 and 102 TFEU (and domestic equivalents), pertaining not only to infringement decisions but also to settlements, commitments, as well as decisions not to launch an investigation or discontinue an investigation. The findings reveal a predominant focus on the national provisions, with only 27 per cent of appealed cases embracing the EU element. As far as the outcomes are concerned, this article notes that the administrative courts mostly confirmed the competition authority’s decisions, with any interventions being calibrated in a manner to avoid any encroachment upon the authority’s discretion, clearly upholding the concept of judicial deference.
Objective study validity diagnostics: a framework requiring pre-specified, empirical verification to increase trust in the reliability of real-world evidence
Authors: Conover Mitchell M , Ryan Patrick B , Chen Yong , Suchard Marc A , Hripcsak George , Schuemie Martijn J
Published: January 2025

Objective

Propose a framework to empirically evaluate and report validity of findings from observational studies using pre-specified objective diagnostics, increasing trust in real-world evidence (RWE).

Materials and Methods

The framework employs objective diagnostic measures to assess the appropriateness of study designs, analytic assumptions, and threats to validity in generating reliable evidence addressing causal questions. Diagnostic evaluations should be interpreted before the unblinding of study results or, alternatively, only unblind results from analyses that pass pre-specified thresholds. We provide a conceptual overview of objective diagnostic measures and demonstrate their impact on the validity of RWE from a large-scale comparative new-user study of various antihypertensive medications. We evaluated expected absolute systematic error (EASE) before and after applying diagnostic thresholds, using a large set of negative control outcomes.

Results

Applying objective diagnostics reduces bias and improves evidence reliability in observational studies. Among 11 716 analyses (EASE = 0.38), 13.9% met pre-specified diagnostic thresholds which reduced EASE to zero. Objective diagnostics provide a comprehensive and empirical set of tests that increase confidence when passed and raise doubts when failed.

Discussion

The increasing use of real-world data presents a scientific opportunity; however, the complexity of the evidence generation process poses challenges for understanding study validity and trusting RWE. Deploying objective diagnostics is crucial to reducing bias and improving reliability in RWE generation. Under ideal conditions, multiple study designs pass diagnostics and generate consistent results, deepening understanding of causal relationships. Open-source, standardized programs can facilitate implementation of diagnostic analyses.

Conclusion

Objective diagnostics are a valuable addition to the RWE generation process.
Male reproductive systems of Macrobrachium pantanalense Dos Santos, Hayd & Anger, 2013 and M. amazonicum (Heller, 1862) (Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae): new insights into the morphology of the spermatozoa of decapod crustaceans
Authors: Nogueira Caio S , Zara Fernando J , Costa Rogerio C
Published: January 2025

Studies on the male reproductive system (MRS) and the ultrastructure of spermatozoa may provide key information about the reproductive biology and phylogenetic relationships between crustacean species. We describe the functional anatomy of the MRS and the ultrastructure and morphometry of spermatozoa of two closely related freshwater shrimps, Macrobrachium pantanalenseDos Santos, Hayd & Anger, 2013 (MP) and M. amazonicum (Heller, 1862) (MA) to detect possible interspecific differences. We introduce geometric morphometrics as a new tool to analyze the caridean spermatozoa for closely related species. The main differences in the anatomy of the MRS of the two species are related to the positive reaction to acid polysaccharides in the distal region of the vas deferens of M. pantanalense and the shape and size of their spermatozoa. SEM and TEM analyses confirmed variations in the shape of spermatozoa of both species and this variation was found to be significant by the use of geometric morphometrics. These tools can highlight differences among caridean shrimps, mainly in cases of closely related species. It becomes clear that MA and MP, despite being two closely related taxa that evolved separately relatively recently, are distinctly different taxa with differences found mainly in the spermatozoa.
Temporal trends of subsequent central nervous system malignancies among survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Galvin Robert T , Chen Yan , Yuan Yan , Cooney Tabitha , Howell Rebecca , Smith Susan , Arnold Michael A , Conces Miriam , Leisenring Wendy , Armstrong Gregory T , Neglia Joseph P , Turcotte Lucie M
Published: January 2025

Background

It is not known whether temporal changes in childhood cancer therapy have reduced risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms of the central nervous system (CNS), a frequently fatal late effect of cancer therapy.

Methods

Five-year survivors of primary childhood cancers diagnosed between 1970 and 1999 in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study with CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms were identified. Cumulative incidence rates and standardized incidence ratios were compared among survivors diagnosed between 1970-1979 (n = 6223), 1980-1989 (n = 9680), and 1990-1999 (n = 8999). Multivariable models assessed risk factors for CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms.

Results

A total of 157 CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms (1970s, 52; 1980s, 63; 1990s, 42) were identified, excluding meningiomas, which were most often malignant gliomas. The proportion of survivors receiving any cranial radiotherapy exposure was reduced over time (1970s, 77.0%; 1980s, 54.3%; 1990s, 33.9%), while the proportion receiving more than 35 Gy cranial radiotherapy showed a smaller reduction (11.4%, 10.8%, and 8.5%, respectively). Twenty-year cumulative incidence and standardized incidence ratios for CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms by treatment decade were 0.32% (95% confidence interval = 0.18% to 0.46%) and 6.6 (95% CI = 5.0 to 8.7); 0.55% (95% CI = 0.41% to 0.70%) and 8.3 (95% CI = 6.6 to 10.4); and 0.43% (95% CI = 0.31% to 0.55%) and 9.2 (95% CI = 7.0 to 12.0), respectively, with no statistically significant decreases between eras. Multivariable analyses showed increased risk for cranial radiotherapy dose levels more than 10 Gy and for primary diagnoses of medulloblastoma and/or primitive neuro-ectodermal tumor (hazard ratio [HR] = 18.7, 95% CI = 9.2 to 37.9) and astrocytoma (HR = 10.1, 95% CI = 5.3 to 19.5). Three-year cumulative incidence of death after CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms, by treatment decade, were 76%, 74%, and 73%, respectively.

Conclusion

CNS subsequent malignant neoplasm incidence has not decreased despite fewer survivors exposed to CNS-directed radiotherapy. CNS subsequent malignant neoplasm remains a substantial source of mortality for affected patients.
Gender and Race Differences in Rates of PTSD Service Connection: Results From a Nationally Representative Panel of OEF/OIF/OND Veterans
Authors: Murdoch Maureen , Clothier Barbara Ann , Noorbaloochi Siamak , Webermann Aliya Rachel
Published: January 2025

Background

Department of Veterans Affairs disability benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), also known as “service connection,” have been shown to reduce homelessness and poverty, increase mental health engagement, and improve clinical outcomes. However, gender and race disparities in PTSD service connection have been described in Vietnam and post-Vietnam era Veterans.

Methods

Post-traumatic stress disorder service connection outcomes were assessed in a nationally representative, randomly selected, gender-stratified, prospective panel of 960 Veterans who served during Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn. Using weighted logistic regression, we assessed the effects of male versus female gender and Black versus non-Black race on odds of PTSD service connection after controlling for other known predictors using Veterans Affairs administrative data. A secondary analysis supplemented administrative data with self-reported data in a subset of 410 Veterans.

Results

A total of 56.3% of men and 45.2% of women (P = .001) received PTSD service connection. In all, 51.1% of Black men versus 57.5% of non-Black men received PTSD service connection (P = .26), while 35.4% of Black women and 50.8% of non-Black women received PTSD service connection (P = .001). The mean total service connection rating, which determines base monthly compensation, was 69.4% ± 28.1 for men receiving PTSD service connection and 49.1% ±31.5 for men denied PTSD service connection (P <.001). The mean total service connection rating for women receiving PTSD service connection was 70.8% ±20.7 compared to 49.7% ± 27.4 for women denied PTSD service connection (P <.001). Disproportionate combat exposures explained the gender difference in PTSD service connection (effect size modification = 15.4%), but we could not identify a mediating confounder for the inverse association between Black race and PTSD service connection in women.

Conclusion

Women were less likely to receive PTSD service connection compared to men; this difference was nearly completely mediated by gender differences in combat exposure. Black women were less likely than non-Black women to receive PTSD service connection, but we could not identify a plausible mechanism to explain this finding. On net, the base compensation package was lower for Veterans denied PTSD service connection than for those receiving PTSD service connection.
The value of AI for assessing longitudinal brain metastases treatment response
Authors: Andrearczyk Vincent , Schiappacasse Luis , Raccaud Matthieu , Bourhis Jean , Prior John O , Cuendet Michel A , Hottinger Andreas F , Dunet Vincent , Depeursinge Adrien
Published: January 2025

Background

Effective follow-up of brain metastasis (BM) patients post-treatment is crucial for adapting therapies and detecting new lesions. Current guidelines (Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology-BM) have limitations, such as patient-level assessments and arbitrary lesion selection, which may not reflect outcomes in high tumor burden cases. Accurate, reproducible, and automated response assessments can improve follow-up decisions, including (1) optimizing re-treatment timing to avoid treating responding lesions or delaying treatment of progressive ones, and (2) enhancing precision in evaluating responses during clinical trials.

Methods

We compared manual and automatic (deep learning-based) lesion contouring using unidimensional and volumetric criteria. Analysis focused on (1) agreement in size and RANO-BM categories, (2) stability of measurements under scanner rotations and over time, and (3) predictability of 1-year outcomes. The study included 49 BM patients, with 184 MRI studies and 448 lesions, retrospectively assessed by radiologists.

Results

Automatic contouring and volumetric criteria demonstrated superior stability (P < .001 for rotation; P < .05 over time) and better outcome predictability compared to manual methods. These approaches reduced observer variability, offering reliable and efficient response assessments. The best outcome predictability, defined as 1-year response, was achieved using automatic contours and volumetric measurements. These findings highlight the potential of automated tools to streamline clinical workflows and provide consistency across evaluators, regardless of expertise.

Conclusion

Automatic BM contouring and volumetric measurements provide promising tools to improve follow-up and treatment decisions in BM management. By enhancing precision and reproducibility, these methods can streamline clinical workflows and improve the evaluation of response in trials and practice.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Antibody Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in a Large Cohort of US Children
Authors: Katic Bozena J , Katragkou Aspasia , Alvitres Jessica L , Gurumurthy Manisha , Li Charles , Schwab Joseph V , Hasan Uzma N , Gaur Sunanda , Weller Alan S , Kennedy Mary C , DiPentima Cecilia , Rohan Claudia , Richlin Benjamin , Chu Dorothy , Otero Isaura , Patel Akhil , Thomas Pauline , Friedman Stephen M
Published: January 2025

Background

Household transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may play a key role in times of increased infection, particularly among children. We aimed to determine the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and identify risk factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 antibody positivity in children.

Methods

Unvaccinated children aged 18 months to 11 years between August 2022 and June 2023 underwent oral fluid testing for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Caregivers completed electronic surveys at 4 major healthcare practices in Northern and Central New Jersey. Information was collected on demographics, household size, vaccination status, and prior SARS-CoV-2–related illness. Multivariable logistic regression determined individual and household-level factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 antibody positivity.

Results

A total of 870 children provided tests and corresponding surveys. Children were predominantly Hispanic (37%) or non-Hispanic Black (30%), and on average 5.7 years old. Overall SARS-CoV-2 antibody positivity was 68%. Risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 positivity include Hispanic or non-Hispanic Black race/ethnicity (adjusted odds ratios [aOR], 2.29 and 1.95 vs. White race/ethnicity; P < .01) and later enrollment in the study period. Children from households with ≥1 vaccinated adult were 52% less likely to be antibody positive than those from households with no vaccinated adults (aOR: 0.38, [95% confidence interval 0.2 to 0.69]).

Conclusions

There is high burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection among children over time. Adult vaccination appears to be a protective factor in helping to mitigate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection among children. Increased vaccination of adults in the community can help inform COVID-19 prevention strategies for minors in the household.
Deep brain stimulation and motor cortex stimulation for central post-stroke pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kannan Siddarth , Gillespie Conor S , Hanemaaijer Jeremy , Eraifej John , Alalade Andrew F , Green Alex
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) and motor cortex stimulation (MCS) are invasive interventions in order to treat various neuropathic pain syndromes such as central post-stroke pain (CPSP). While each treatment has varying degree of success, comparative analysis has not yet been performed, and the success rates of these techniques using validated, objective pain scores have not been synthesized.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Three databases were searched, and articles published from January 2000 to October 2024 were included (last search date October 25, 2024). Meta-Analysis was performed using random effects models. We evaluated the performance of DBS or MCS by assessing studies that reported pain relief using visual analogue scale (VAS) or numerical rating scale (NRS) scores.

Results

Of the 478 articles identified, 32 were included in the analysis (330 patients—139 DBS and 191 MCS). The improvement in mean VAS score for patients that underwent DBS post-surgery was 48.6% compared to a score of 53.1% for patients that had MCS. The pooled number of patients who improved after DBS was 0.62 (95% CI, 0.51–0.71, I2 = 16%). The pooled number of patients who improved after MCS was 0.64 (95% CI, 0.53–0.74, I2 = 40%).

Conclusion

The use of neurosurgical interventions such as DBS and MCS are last-resort treatments for CPSP, with limited studies exploring and comparing these two techniques. While our study shows that MCS might be a slightly better treatment option, further research would need to be done to determine the appropriate surgical intervention in the treatment of CPSP.
ALG8-CDG: advances in molecular and prenatal phenotyping facilitate prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling
Authors: Huang Yanlin , Yu Lihua , Zhu Juan , Wang Yunan , Zhang Rui , Chen Jianhong , Huang Cuiqing , Li Ling , Ding Hongke , Lu Jian , Zhang Yan , Du Li
Published: January 2025

Background

ALG8-congenital disorder of glycosylation (ALG8-CDG) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder leading to severe multisystem manifestations, with no reported prenatal patients to date.

Methods

We describe two fetuses from a single family with ALG8-CDG presenting with prenatal hydrops, undergoing comprehensive prenatal ultrasound, umbilical cord blood biochemistry, autopsy, placental pathology, and genetic testing.

Results

Prenatal ultrasound revealed fetal hydrops, skeletal anomalies, cardiac developmental abnormalities, cataracts, echogenic kidneys and bowel, oligohydramnios, choroid plexus cysts, and intrauterine growth restriction. Umbilical cord blood biochemistry demonstrated fetal anemia, coagulation disorders, and abnormal liver and kidney function. Autopsy confirmed fetal hydrops and associated anomalies. A novel compound heterozygous mutation comprising the missense variant c.754T>C (p.Ser252Pro) and a partial exonic deletion (deletion of exons 1–2) in the ALG8 gene was identified in fetus P2.

Conclusions

This study represents the first prenatal diagnosis of ALG8-CDG, comprehensively delineating the prenatal phenotypic spectrum. Prenatal ultrasound, umbilical cord blood biochemistry, and placental pathology findings aid in the assessment of prenatal manifestations, invaluable for prenatal diagnosis, genetic counseling, and potential interventions in future patients.
Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Bimekizumab in Axial Spondyloarthritis: 2-Year Results from Two Phase 3 Studies
Authors: Baraliakos Xenofon , Deodhar Atul , van der Heijde Désirée , Van den Bosch Filip , Magrey Marina , Maksymowych Walter P , Tomita Tetsuya , Xu Huji , Massow Ute , Vaux Tom , Prajapati Chetan , Manente Myriam , Marten Alexander , Gensler Lianne S
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Bimekizumab, a monoclonal IgG1 antibody that selectively inhibits interleukin (IL)‑17F in addition to IL-17A, previously demonstrated efficacy and was well tolerated to 1 year in patients with non-radiographic (nr-) and radiographic (r-) axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Here, we report bimekizumab safety and efficacy to 2 years.

Methods

Patients completing week 52 in the phase 3 studies BE MOBILE 1 (nr-axSpA; NCT03928704) and 2 (r‑axSpA; NCT03928743) were eligible for an ongoing open‑label extension (OLE; NCT04436640). All OLE patients received subcutaneous bimekizumab 160 mg every 4 weeks. Safety outcomes for patients who received ≥1 bimekizumab dose, and efficacy outcomes for all randomised patients, are reported to week 104.

Results

In the OLE (Weeks 52 − 104), 70.8% (367/518) of patients reported ≥1 treatment‑emergent adverse event (TEAE). Most frequent TEAEs (EAIR/100PY) were SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection (25.2), nasopharyngitis (11.0) and oral candidiasis (5.4). Fungal infection EAIR/100PY was 11.8 (majority Candida infections: 6.8; most mild/moderate, none serious/systemic). Inflammatory bowel disease and uveitis rates were low; no major adverse cardiovascular events or deaths occurred. TEAE incidence rate was generally similar across Weeks 0–52 and 52–104.

At week 104, >50% of randomised patients (N = 586) achieved ASAS40; ∼60% achieved ASDAS low disease activity (<2.1) and >30% achieved ASDAS inactive disease (<1.3). Bimekizumab demonstrated sustained suppression of MRI inflammation at week 104, with >57% of patients achieving MRI remission.

Conclusions

The safety profile of bimekizumab remained consistent with prior reports, with no new safety signals identified. 1-year efficacy was sustained to 2 years across patients with nr‑axSpA and r-axSpA.
Criminalisation and Control: Mediterranean Maritime Search and Rescue Workers’ Perceptions of Uses of Law
Authors: Graffin Neil , Howard Matt , Vincett Joanne
Published: January 2025

This article, based on qualitative research of 22 search and rescue (SAR) activists who save migrant lives at sea, examines perceptions of these activists on measures used to criminalise and control them and their organisations. Recognising the law in this area as contested between the impressions of civic society humanitarian activists and state authorities, it analyses how SAR activists perceive how the law is used to disrupt their work. This article examines not only how the law is developed by government, but it will be argued, utilising the theory of critical legal pluralism, that state officials create law in their encounters with SAR activists and their vessels. This article is therefore significant in demonstrating how state officials can create law for nefarious purposes, which has relevance not only to immigration and maritime law, but to other areas of controversial or contested activity.
A Reproducible Method for Donor Site Computed Tomography Measurements in Abdominally Based Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Tandon Damini , Sletten Arthur , Ha Austin , Skolnick Gary B. , Commean Paul , Myckatyn Terence
Published: January 2025

We present an approach for evaluating abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans that generates reproducible measures relevant to donor site morbidity after abdominally based breast reconstruction. Seventeen preoperative CT metrics were measured in 20 patients with software: interanterior superior iliac spine distance; abdominal wall protrusion; interrectus distance; rectus abdominis width, thickness, and width-to-thickness ratio; abdominal wall thickness; subcutaneous fat volume; visceral fat volume; right/left psoas volumes and densities; and right/left rectus abdominis volumes and densities. Two operators performed measures to determine interrater reliability (n = 10). Interclass coefficients (ICCs) were calculated, and Bland–Altman plots were fashioned. Intrarater reliability was excellent (ICC > 0.9, 0.958–1) for 15 measures, and good (0.75 < ICC < 0.9, 0.815–0.853) for 2 measures. Interrater reliability was excellent (ICC > 0.9, 0.912–0.995) for 12 measures and good (0.75 < ICC < 0.9, 0.78–0.896) for 5 measures. Bland–Altman plots confirmed intra/interrater agreement. Our study meets its objective of establishing a protocol for obtaining abdominal CT measurements with high reproducibility and intrarater and interrater reliability. Although this study is not meant to weigh the particular influences of various CT measurements on clinical outcomes, we are now actively studying this with the intention of reporting our findings in the near future. Larger patient cohorts must be leveraged to determine correlations between abdominal CT scan findings and donor site outcomes using machine learning algorithms that generate models for predicting abdominal donor site complications.
Social Media Growth Blueprint for Plastic Surgeons: Insights and Considerations From Personal Experience
Authors: Saadya Ahmad , El-Tantawy Tarek
Published: January 2025

Background:

Social media platforms such as TikTok have recently emerged as influential tools for information dissemination, offering plastic surgeons new opportunities to promote their practices. However, these platforms also present significant challenges regarding online safety, ethical considerations, and the potential spread of misinformation.

Methods:

This study analyzes the experience of gaining 100,000 followers on TikTok within 6 months, highlighting the excitement of rapid growth alongside the challenges posed by the potential for misinformation. We propose a strategic approach to leveraging social media effectively and ethically, focusing on storytelling, educational content, and audience engagement; highlighting unique selling propositions; utilizing analytics; and maintaining consistency. Ethical considerations in medical communication are also discussed, emphasizing the need for robust guidelines.

Results:

From December 2023 to June 2024, the author posted 56 videos in Arabic, the target market’s language. These videos garnered 16,566,900 views and 758,500 likes, with an average video length of 95.36 seconds. This growth led to a 47% increase in nonsurgical aesthetic consultations. Engagement and educational content, such as study tips, received the highest views, totaling 5.6 million, demonstrating the importance of such content in building a follower base for targeted marketing.

Conclusions:

Our findings highlight the power and potential risks of social media in healthcare, advocating for a balanced approach that maximizes benefits while mitigating the spread of misinformation.
Remission of persistent hypertension and hypokalaemia following redo adrenalectomy for primary aldosteronism – case report
Authors: Pinto Diluka , Teo Ada , Wijerethne Sujith , Khoo Chin Meng , Puar Troy , Parameswaran Rajeev
Published: January 2025

We report on a case of a 67-year-old male who was referred to our care with persistent aldosteronism post adrenalectomy. Biochemical failure after surgery is rare after surgery for primary aldosteronism (PA). Persistent hypokalaemia and raised aldosteronism is an indication of treatment failure after surgery. Causes of failure may be multiple aldosterone producing nodules or diffuse hyperplasia, inappropriate or incomplete lateralization studies, presence of CACNA1D -mutated aldosterone producing adenomas (APAs) and incomplete or partial adrenalectomy. In our case the persistent disease was imaged with METOMIDATE PET as the patient had a previous history of adrenal vein clipping during index surgery. The patient underwent reoperative adrenalectomy and was cured of hypokalaemia and hypertension, despite a long duration of his disease. This case highlights some of the reasons for biochemical failure and work up of the patient for reoperative surgery.
Preclinical Study of a Minimally Invasive Cochlear Implant Device Based on 3D Printing of a Custom Guide
Authors: Micault Emmanuel , Chenneviere Adrien , Moreau Sylvain , Hitier Martin
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study is to test the feasibility of a custom 3D-printed guide for performing a minimally invasive cochleostomy for cochlear implantation.

Study Design

Prospective performance study.

Setting

Secondary care. Department of Otolaryngology, Caen University Hospital.

Patients

Four unselected patients (eight temporal bones), donated to science.

Intervention

Therapeutic procedure with minimally invasive cochleostomy using a custom drill guide.

Main Outcome Measure

Comparing the difference in trajectory between the cochleostomy axis achieved with the guide and the ideal axis planned preoperatively. A mean accuracy of less than 0.5 mm at the cochlear target was considered satisfactory.

The distance between the drilled axis and certain anatomical structures (facial nerve, external auditory meatus, stapes, and chorda tympani) was also measured.

Results

The average distance between the target and the planned target was 0.51 ± 0.21 mm. No critical structures were damaged.

Conclusion

The results of this feasibility study demonstrated that the precision of this guide was close to the target of less than 0.5 mm, with reassuring safety data regarding critical anatomical structures. It therefore seems worthwhile to pursue the development of the procedure with a larger-scale study, using more precise, high-performance software and cochlear implantation equipment and assessing the quality of electrode insertion.
The Association Between Postoperative Prophylactic Antibiotics and Severe Infections After Cochlear Implantation: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Meldgaard Thomas Hudlebusch , Taha Martin Abou , Faber Christian Emil , Sorensen Jesper Roed
Published: January 2025

Objective

To investigate the association between postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis and the risk of infections leading to implant explantation or hospitalization, with a follow-up of up to 12 years.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary medical institution.

Patients

Adult patients (≥18 yr) receiving cochlear implant surgery between 2010 and 2022.

Intervention

Postoperative oral prophylactic antibiotic treatment for 4 to 10 days.

Main Outcome Measures

The medical records of patients receiving cochlear implants were assessed (n = 927). Two groups were formed: group A, receiving postoperative oral antibiotic treatment (period: 2010–2015) (n = 526), and group B, not receiving postoperative oral antibiotic treatment (period: 2016–2022) (n = 401). The two groups were compared regarding infections leading to hospitalization or explantation, and baseline characteristics.

Results

In total, 28 patients (3.0%) had infections requiring explantation or hospitalization. Of these, 13 were explantations (1.4%). The infection rate in group A was 2.9%, compared with 3.2% in group B, with an odds ratio of 1.2 in group B (p = 0.646). Group B had a 2.2 odds ratio of explantation caused by infection compared with group A (p = 0.179). We observed a significant correlation between severe infections in patients previously having otologic surgery (7.7%, p = 0.011) and in patients with previous issues of chronic otitis (16.7%, p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Occurrence of postoperative infection leading to explantation and hospitalization was not significantly associated with the use of postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis. However, infections were higher in patients not receiving antibiotic prophylaxis, despite having a lower risk of postoperative infection.
Correlation between MRI findings of pituitary gland and prolactin level among hyperprolactinemia adult female Saudi patients in rural areas: A retrospective multicentric study
Authors: Alyami Nasher , Alhenaki Ghazlan , Al Atwah Salem , Alhenaki Nawras , Smaisem Fatema , Alotaibi Asmaa , Abu Risheh Joud , Smaisem Mustafa , Alhenaki Abdulmalik , Alanazi Sultan , Alshammeri Maram , Alsayed Dana , Wadaan Arwa , Musallam Sarah , Ahmed Faisal
Published: January 2025

Identifying the prolactin threshold that necessitates pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with hyperprolactinemia remains challenging. Therefore, developing standards for serum prolactin level criteria to predict prolactinoma is critical. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between hyperprolactinemia and the presence of pituitary adenoma among Saudi female patients with verified prolactin levels. A retrospective multicentric study, including 4 regions from western Saudia Arabia between July 2020 and September 2023, included 168 female patients with abnormal prolactin levels who underwent brain MRI for the pituitary gland evaluation. The prevalence of pituitary adenoma and its associated factors and the relationship between blood prolactin levels and pituitary adenoma on brain MRI, as well as establishing the cutoff value of serum prolactin concentration linked to the existence of pituitary adenoma, were investigated and analyzed. The mean prolactin level was 72.7 ± 63.2 ng/mL. MRI findings were microadenoma in 77 (46.1%), macroadenoma in 17 (10.2%), Empty sella syndrome (ESS) in 7 (4.2%), and normal in 66 (39.5%) patients. In the ROC curve analysis, prolactin levels demonstrated a moderate degree of accuracy in predicting the existence of a pituitary adenoma (AUC = 0.640; 95% CI = 0.563–0.713; P = .0010], and the sensitivity and specificity were 40.59% and 83.33%, respectively. The ideal cutoff prolactin level for diagnosing pituitary adenoma was > 38.71 ng/mL with a sensitivity of 77.23% and specificity of 40.91%. It is prudent to perform pituitary imaging in most cases of hyperprolactinemia without event etiology, even if the condition is minor, due to the high prevalence of pituitary anomalies in female patients with hyperprolactinemia at serial sampling. A multidisciplinary strategy is necessary for a comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up approach to improve the clinical outcomes of these individuals.
Malignant hypertension induces thrombotic microangiopathy and renal failure: A case report
Authors: Sun Xi , Liu Chunying , Ren Yanyun , He Liqun , Xu Youhua
Published: January 2025

Rationale:

Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMA) caused by malignant hypertension is an acute and critical disease among rare diseases. Although renal biopsy pathology is a golden indicator for diagnosing kidney disease, it cannot distinguish between primary and secondary TMA and requires a comprehensive diagnosis in conjunction with other laboratory tests and medical history.

Patient concerns:

A 33-year-old young man was hospitalized due to unexplained kidney failure.

Diagnosis:

A young man was admitted to the hospital with unexplained renal failure with severe heart failure and was diagnosed with TMA by renal biopsy. Further investigation excludes primary TMA and is considered to be due to malignant hypertension.

Interventions:

Temporary hemodialysis combined with aggressive blood pressure control and the use of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor are the primary management approach.

Outcomes:

Upon discharge, the patient had ceased dialysis and showed significant renal function recovery. After 1 year follow-up period, creatinine levels remained stable at 2.373 mg/dL, while lactate dehydrogenase, B-type natriuretic peptide, and platelet levels all returned to within normal ranges.

Lessons:

TMA caused by malignant hypertension is rare and similar to the clinical manifestations of TMA caused by Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura and Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, but it is often sudden and critical. Early identification and diagnosis and aggressive antihypertensive therapy, must be given to avoid end-stage renal disease, long-term maintenance of dialysis, and the financial burden of unnecessary plasmapheresis and potential side effects of glucocorticoids.
Disseminated organ and tissue infection secondary to carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infection for acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with ceftazidime–avibactam: Two case reports
Authors: He Mingxia , Jiang Yuxia , Wu Haiying , Xu Xiaofeng , Jiang Huifang
Published: January 2025

Rationale:

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) bloodstream infections are a severe complication resulting from granulocyte deficiency following chemotherapy for hematologic malignancies and have a high mortality rate. However, reports of disseminated organ infections secondary to bloodstream infections are rare.

Patient concerns and diagnoses:

We report 2 cases of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who both developed CRKP bloodstream infections during the granulocyte deficiency stage following chemotherapy, with 1 case of secondary bacterial liver abscess and 1 case of secondary septic arthritis.

Interventions and outcomes:

Based on the results of drug sensitivity testing, both patients were treated with ceftazidime–avibactam, and the infections were rapidly and effectively controlled without significant adverse effects.

Lessons:

Ceftazidime–avibactam exhibited satisfactory efficacy and safety in the 2 cases of disseminated organ infection secondary to CRKP bloodstream infection following chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia.