bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The gut microbiome and cross-reactivity of food allergens: current understanding, insights, and future directions
Authors: Taico Oliva Carolina , Musa Ibrahim , Kopulos Daniel , Ardalani Fariba , Maskey Anish , Wilson Aaron , Yang Nan , Li Xiu-Min
Published: January 2025

This mini-review examines the emerging role of the gut microbiome in influencing food allergen cross-reactivity. It specifically focuses on how microbial diversity, antigens, and metabolites impact IgE-mediated allergic responses. Cross-reactivity occurs when structurally similar food and microbial antigens trigger hypersensitivities, affecting millions of people worldwide. Recent research underscores the significance of microbial diversity in early life for developing immune tolerance. Beneficial strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, play a crucial role in supporting the functions of T regulatory cells (Tregs) and immunoglobulin A (IgA). Additionally, we discuss microbial metabolites, particularly short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which enhance immune tolerance by promoting Treg differentiation and maintaining gut barrier integrity, thereby reducing allergen entry. However, it is important to note that SCFAs can provoke inflammatory responses under certain conditions, highlighting the necessity for targeted research on their dual effects. Dysbiosis-related intestinal permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut,” can further worsen cross-reactivity. Microbial antigens like lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are known to influence Th2-dominant responses.
Impact of antibiotic prophylaxis on gut microbiota in colorectal surgery: insights from an Eastern European stewardship study
Authors: Văcărean-Trandafir Irina Cezara , Amărandi Roxana-Maria , Ivanov Iuliu Cristian , Dragoș Loredana Mihaiela , Mențel Mihaela , Iacob Ştefan , Muşină Ana-Maria , Bărgăoanu Elena-Roxana , Roată Cristian Ene , Morărașu Ștefan , Țuțuianu Valeri , Ciobanu Marcel , Dimofte Mihail-Gabriel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Antibiotic overuse is driving a global rise in antibiotic resistance, highlighting the need for robust antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) initiatives to improve prescription practices. While antimicrobials are essential for treating sepsis and preventing surgical site infections (SSIs), they can inadvertently disrupt the gut microbiota, leading to postoperative complications. Treatment methods vary widely across nations due to differences in drug choice, dosage, and therapy duration, affecting antibiotic resistance rates, which can reach up to 51% in some countries. In Romania and the Republic of Moldova, healthcare practices for surgical antibiotic prophylaxis differ significantly despite similarities in genetics, culture, and diet. Romania's stricter healthcare regulations result in more standardized antibiotic protocols, whereas Moldova's limited healthcare funding leads to less consistent practices and greater variability in treatment outcomes.

Methods

This study presents the results of a prospective cross-border investigation involving 86 colorectal cancer patients from major oncological hospitals in Romania and Moldova. We analyzed fecal samples collected from patients before and 7 days post-antibiotic treatment, focusing on the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene.

Results

Our findings indicate that inconsistent antibiotic prophylaxis policies—varying in type, dosage, or therapy duration—significantly impacted the gut microbiota and led to more frequent dysbiosis compared to stricter prophylactic antibiotic practices (single dose, single product, limited time).

Discussion

We emphasize the need for standardized antibiotic prophylaxis protocols to minimize dysbiosis and its associated risks, promoting more effective antimicrobial use, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Advances of research in diabetic cardiomyopathy: diagnosis and the emerging application of sequencing
Authors: He Qianqian , Lai Ze , Zhai Zhengyao , Zou Beibei , Shi Yangkai , Feng Chao
Published: January 2025

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most prevalent and severe complications associated with diabetes mellitus (DM). The onset of DCM is insidious, with the symptoms being obvious only in the late stage. Consequently, the early diagnosis of DCM is a formidable challenge which significantly influences the treatment and prognosis of DCM. Thus, it becomes imperative to uncover innovative approaches to facilitate the prompt identification and diagnosis of DCM. On the traditional clinical side, we tend to use serum biomarkers as well as imaging as the most common means of diagnosing diseases because of their convenience as well as affordability. As we delve deeper into the mechanisms of DCM, a wide variety of biomarkers are becoming competitive diagnostic indicators. Meanwhile, the application of multiple imaging techniques has also made efforts to promote the diagnosis of DCM. Besides, the spurt in sequencing technology has made it possible to give hints about disease diagnosis from the genome as well as the transcriptome, making diagnosis less difficult, more sensitive, and more predictive. Overall, sequencing technology is expected to be the superior choice of plasma biomarkers for detecting lesions at an earlier stage than imaging, and its judicious utilization combined with imaging technologies will lead to a more sensitive diagnosis of DCM in the future. Therefore, this review meticulously consolidates the progress and utilization of various biomarkers, imaging methods, and sequencing technologies in the realm of DCM diagnosis, with the aim of furnishing novel theoretical foundation and guide future research endeavors towards enhancing the diagnostic and therapeutic landscape of DCM.
Successful management of coagulation dysfunction in a patient with fulminant myocarditis: a case report
Authors: Dong Shanshan , Peng Qi , Lu Kai , Wei Qimei , Yang Jun
Published: January 2025

Fulminant myocarditis (FM) is an acute, diffuse inflammatory myocardial disease characterized by abrupt onset and extremely rapid progression. Patients typically exhibit haemodynamic abnormalities that may lead to respiratory failure, liver and renal failure, and subsequent coagulopathy. Collectively, these complications significantly increase the risk of early mortality. Currently, there is limited research on coagulation dysfunction associated with FM; therefore, achieving a rebalancing of the coagulation system is a challenge for successful treatment. We report a case of coagulation disorder secondary to FM, in which the patient recovered successfully and was discharged following comprehensive treatment and correction of coagulation function. By analyzing the etiology of this condition and emphasizing strategies for correcting coagulation disorders, we aim to provide valuable references for clinical diagnosis and management.
Co-producing a live fieldwork broadcast in the biosciences
Authors: Maddison Janine , Constantinou Leah Ada , Fletcher Ellen , Turner Callum , Bevan Richard , Marsham Sara
Published: January 2025

Most live broadcast work in education operates with an expert to novice delivery mode, and in indoor settings such as surgical teaching environments. Those few examples of live broadcasts from outdoor locations have heavy resource requirements, limiting their uptake within Higher Education. Working with undergraduates in a students as partners approach, this research aims to test the feasibility of a low-cost and low-tech solution to co-produce a live fieldwork broadcast within the biosciences. The co-production partnership successfully produced a live broadcast from conception to delivery in 2022–2023 with three placement students and in 2023–2024 with two placement students and three mentors. The students were involved in all aspects of design, development, and delivery of the live fieldwork broadcast. A pocket wireless modem creates an outdoor wireless network with a mobile device and wireless microphones used to deliver the broadcast. Semi-structured interviews, student self-assessments, and a reflective researcher diary explored the impact of this approach to co-produce a live fieldwork broadcast. Enjoyable aspects of the placement identified were the opportunity for new experiences and a sense of achievement. The live fieldwork broadcast placement enabled the placement students to develop 28 skills, with 73% of skills identified by at least two of the placement students. Most skills developed were transferable (54% of student identified skills), including teamwork and project planning. The simple and low-cost technology used provides a solution to address the barriers of technology integration within fieldwork and offers insight into the experience of working in partnership during a live fieldwork broadcast.
The importance of structure and trust in developmental work in school: with observations and joint analyses as the key activity
Authors: Postholm May Britt
Published: January 2025

Organizational conditions and social aspects as requirements for learning, and faculty trust has been highlighted as the foundation for collaboration and school development. The professional development of teachers plays a crucial role in improving teachers teaching together with the pupils. But how development work is organized and how faculty trust is aimed for are scarcely described in the literature. This article is based on a qualitative study conducted in the frame of cultural historical activity theory (CHAT), focusing on school development in one primary school with nine teachers and two leaders: one principal and one middle leader. The problem formulation for the study presented in the article was the following: How do teachers experience participation in a developmental work research project designed by researchers within the frame of CHAT? The study describes how processes leading to a joint focus can be arranged, and how structured analyses of observed teaching can lead to professional dialogues and the development of trust. The study shows that the teachers wanted to continue with observation and joint analyses after the project ended but noted that the principal must facilitate such processes.
Evaluating atherogenic index of plasma as a predictor for metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional analysis from Northern Taiwan
Authors: Chen Liang-Sien , Chen Yu-Rui , Lin Yi-Hsiu , Wu Hung-Keng , Lee Yan Wen , Chen Jau-Yuan
Published: January 2025

Background

The rising global prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), characterized by a constellation of cardiovascular risk factors, underscores the urgent need to identify reliable predictive biomarkers. We hypothesize that an elevated atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) predicts MetS risk through lipid imbalance, but population-specific variations in its predictive strength remain unexplored. Our study aimed to assess AIP), a ratio of triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, as a predictor of MetS.

Method

Between 2014 and 2018, our cross-sectional study collected and analyzed health examination data from 9,202 Northern Taiwan Medical Center employees without cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Our study classified AIP levels equally into three tertiles and evaluated their impact on MetS through a logistic regression model.

Results

After adjusting for age, gender, BMI, SBP, FPG, and LDL in our models, the ORs for MetS in the second and third tertiles of the AIP were 3.81 (95% CI: 2.33 to 6.21; OR: 37.14, 95%: 23.22 to 59.39). In addition, women have a higher MetS risk associated with elevated AIP than men across all models.

Conclusion

Our research identified the AIP as a significant predictive marker for the prevalence of MetS, suggesting its potential utility in clinical risk assessment and indicating the need for further research to explore its application in preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions.
The efficacy of resveratrol supplementation on inflammation and oxidative stress in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients: randomized double-blind placebo meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Peiye , Jin Yunrui , Sun Jiya , Zhou Xia
Published: January 2025

Background

The effects of resveratrol supplementation on inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were controversial. A meta-analysis was performed to assess the changes in levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with T2DM.

Methods

Relevant literatures before November 6, 2024 were screened through Web of Science,Embase,the Cochrane Library and other sources (ClinicalTrials, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses). The quality of the literature was evaluated according to the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews. The study quality was assessed using the risk-of-bias 2 tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment,Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Review Manager 5.3 conducted meta-analysis of the data included in the literature.

Results

This meta-analysis was conducted in six randomized controlled trials involving 533 participants. Our results showed that supplementation with resveratrol significantly reduced C-reactive protein levels(SMD = -1.40, 95%CI(-2.60, -0.21), P = 0.02; Level of evidence: low), lipid peroxide levels (SMD = -0.99, 95%CI(-1.36, -0.61), P < 0.00001; Level of evidence: low), 8-isoprostanes(SMD = -0.79, 95%CI(-1.16, -0.42), P < 0.0001; Level of evidence: low) and oxidative stress score (SMD = -1.62, 95%CI(-2.49, -0.75), P = 0.0003; Level of evidence: very low). In addition, compared to placebo, Supplementation with resveratrol significantly increased glutathione peroxidase levels (SMD = 0.38, 95%CI(0.03, 0.74), P = 0.04; Level of evidence:low) and catalase levels (SMD = 0.33, 95%CI(0.03, 0.63), P = 0.03; Level of evidence: low). However, no significant difference was observed in improving interleukin-6 levels (SMD = -1.35, 95%CI(-2.75, -0.05), P = 0.06; Level of evidence: very low), tumor necrosis factor α levels (SMD = -3.30, 95%CI(-7.47, 0.87), P = 0.12; Level of evidence: very low), superoxide dismutase levels (SMD = 0.39, 95%CI(-0.26, 1.04), P = 0.24; Level of evidence: very low), total antioxidant capacity levels (SMD = 0.39, 95%CI(-0.23, 1.00), P = 0.21; Level of evidence: very low) and malondialdehyde levels (SMD = -3.36, 95%CI(-10.30, 3.09), P = 0.29; Level of evidence: very low).

Conclusion

Resveratrol improved inflammation and oxidative stress in T2DM patients to some extent. This provides a new idea and method for clinical treatment. However, due to the limitations of the study, more large-sample, multi-center clinical studies are needed to verify this conclusion.
Microbiological quality of the air in the area of influence of the former wastewater treatment plant in Cajamarca, Peru
Authors: Rodriguez-Zevallos Claudia E. , Sanchez-Altamirano Jessica K. , Sanchez-Peña Marco A. , Diaz Kenny
Published: January 2025

It has been determined that there is air pollution within wastewater treatment plants and their surrounding areas. This impacts the health of nearby populations. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the air’s microbiological quality in the area of influence of the former Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in the city of Cajamarca. Microbiological air sampling was conducted during the rainy and dry seasons using the RCS Standard Hycon air sampler, planting on tryptic soy agar medium to determine the total count of all microorganisms, bacteria, and fungi separately. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), PN-89/Z-04111/02, and PN-89/Z-04111/03 were the standards used to determine the air quality of the study area since Peru currently does not have such regulation standards. The highest values obtained were 4560 CFU/m³ and 4360 CFU/m³ during the dry season. Sixteen concentrations of the total microorganism count exceeded the limits established by OSHA standards, and ten concentrations of bacteria exceeded the Polish standard PN-89/Z-04111/02. Although the concentrations of fungi were high, they did not exceed any reference limits. We determined a positive correlation between the concentration of microorganisms and the relative humidity, with a maximum of 85.67% humidity during the dry season. Additionally, a negative correlation with wind speed was found, with values ranging from 0.37 m/s to 2.58 m/s during the dry season and from 0.37 m/s to 1.87 m/s during the rainy season. Genera of public health importance such as Staphylococcus and Penicillium were identified. Finally, a survey was conducted among the nearby population to assess the impact on public health. And, it was established that the health impact on the surrounding populations is mainly low.
Case report: A rollercoaster journey of pemphigus vegetans
Authors: Hou Xiaoyuan , Chen Jia
Published: January 2025

Pemphigus vegetans (P Veg), the rarest subtype of pemphigus, is characterized by vegetative plaques, primarily affecting intertriginous areas. The most common autoantibodies target desmoglein 3 (Dsg3). A 60-year-old female patient presented with well-demarcated red vegetative plaques on her feet, vulva, and thigh, accompanied by surrounding pustules. Histopathological examination revealed epidermal hyperplasia with significant infiltration of neutrophils and eosinophils in the dermis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed elevated anti-Dsg3 antibodies (203.2 U/ml), and immunohistochemical staining confirmed positive expression of anti-Dsg3 IgG antibodies in keratinocytes. The patient was diagnosed with P Veg and achieved remission after treatment with either 900 mg of intravenous spesolimab or oral methylprednisolone.
Healthy individuals genetically at-risk for the development of Pemphigus vulgaris or Alopecia areata share disease-like cytokine dysregulation
Authors: Schwartz Rebekah R. , Seiffert-Sinha Kristina , Sinha Animesh A.
Published: January 2025

Autoimmune diseases (AID) are defined by immune dysregulation characterized by specific humoral and/or cell mediated responses directed against the body’s own tissues. Cytokines in particular play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of AID, with proinflammatory cytokines contributing to the initiation and propagation of autoimmune inflammation, whereas anti-inflammatory cytokines facilitate regression of inflammation and recovery from acute phases of the disease. Parallel work by our group evaluating a comprehensive set of pro- and anti-inflammatory serum cytokines in Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) as well as Alopecia areata (AA) uncovered a similar pattern of inheritance specific immune dysregulation in these two distinct autoimmune skin diseases. In AA, we found healthy control subjects who are blood related to AA patients exhibit the same cytokine dysregulation in Th1 and Th17 pathways as do patients with AA. In PV, patients as well as individuals who are healthy but yet carry certain PV-associated HLA alleles (termed here as HLA-matched controls) share a similar, but not fully overlapping pattern of cytokine expression that is distinct from control subjects who do not type for these HLA alleles. Specifically, PV patients as well as HLA-matched controls demonstrate immunological activation of several pro-inflammatory-, Th17-, Th2-pathway associated cytokines, and the chemokine IL-8. Thus, in both AA and PV, we reveal cytokine dysregulations that are linked to genetic background. The presence of disease promoting pathways in not only patients, but also genetically related, but healthy control individuals further evokes the novel hypothesis that there may be co-existing disease counteracting immune protective mechanisms at play in thwarting the threat of disease in genetically predisposed individuals who, despite harboring disease associated immune imbalances, remain healthy. Our data underscore the known tendency of AID to cluster in families and support the notion of the shared genetic/common cause hypothesis across multiple AID.
The immune landscape of fetal chorionic villous tissue in term placenta
Authors: Doratt Brianna M. , True Heather E. , Sureshchandra Suhas , Qiao Qi , Rincon Monica , Marshall Nicole E. , Messaoudi Ilhem
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The immune compartment within fetal chorionic villi is comprised of fetal Hofbauer cells (HBC) and invading placenta-associated maternal monocytes and macrophages (PAMM). Recent studies have characterized the transcriptional profile of the first trimester (T1) placenta; however, the phenotypic and functional diversity of chorionic villous immune cells at term (T3) remain poorly understood.

Methods

To address this knowledge gap, immune cells from human chorionic villous tissues obtained from full-term, uncomplicated pregnancies were deeply phenotyped using a combination of flow cytometry, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq, CITE-seq) and chromatin accessibility profiling (snATAC-seq).

Results

Our results indicate that, relative to the first trimester, the frequency of fetal macrophages (HBC, proliferating HBC) is significantly reduced, whereas that of infiltrating maternal monocytes/macrophages (PAMM1b, PAMM1a, PAMM2, MAC_1) increased in T3. PAMM1b and HBCs exhibit the most phagocytic capacity at term highlighting their regulatory role in tissue homeostasis in late pregnancy. The transcriptional profiles of resident villous immune subsets exhibit a heightened activation state relative to the relative to T1, likely to support labor and parturition. Additionally, we provide one of the first insights into the chromatin accessibility profile of villous myeloid cells at term. We next stratified our findings by pre-pregnancy BMI since maternal pregravid obesity is associated with several adverse pregnancy outcomes. Pregravid obesity increased inflammatory gene expression, particularly among HBC and PAMM1a subsets, but dampened the expression of antimicrobial genes, supporting a tolerant-like phenotype of chorionic villous myeloid cells. We report a decline in HBC abundance accompanied by an increase in infiltrating maternal macrophages, which aligns with reports of heightened chorionic villous inflammatory pathologies with pregravid obesity. Finally, given the shared fetal yolk-sac origin of HBCs and microglia, we leveraged an in vitro model of umbilical cord blood-derived microglia to investigate the impact of pregravid obesity on fetal neurodevelopment. Our findings reveal increased expression of activation markers albeit dampened phagocytic capacity in microglia with pregravid obesity.

Discussion

Overall, our study highlights immune adaptations in the fetal chorionic villous with gestational age and pregravid obesity, as well as insight towards microglia dysfunction possibly underlying poor neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring of women with pregravid obesity.
Inebilizumab treatment in a patient with co-occurring AQP4-IgG positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and myasthenia gravis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Song Xiaoqian , Chen Jingjiao , Jin Chenyang , Peng Yilong , Sun Yuewen , Zheng Xueping
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to delineate the clinical features underlying the concurrent disease of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and myasthenia gravis (MG), and to identify efficacious therapeutic strategies.

Background

NMOSD and MG are uncommon autoimmune diseases that infrequently co-exist. Despite previous reports, a consensus on treating NMOSD concurrent with MG is lacking.

Methods

We present the case of a 55-year-old female with both anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-positive NMOSD and anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody-positive MG, who achieved stable disease control following treatment with inebilizumab without significant adverse effects. We also conducted a literature review to evaluate the clinical profile of this comorbidity.

Results

Our review identified 85 patients with concurrent NMOSD and MG. In 70 well-documented cases, MG predated NMOSD in 60 (85.8%) cases, with 42 (70%) patients having undergone thymectomy. Six (8.6%) patients were first diagnosed with NMOSD, and then thymectomy was performed in 2 (33.3%) MG patients. For NMOSD treatment, although most patients received steroid hormones and immunosuppressive agents, quite a few patients had persistent severe disability. Additionally, of 44 patients with clear records of disease recurrence, 31 patients(70.5%) experienced frequent relapses of optic neuritis and myelitis, ranging from 1 to 15 attacks, averaging five. The manifestations of MG are mainly included fatigability, diplopia, and blepharoptosis, with symptoms well-controlled in most patients. Our patient treated with inebilizumab for 1 year and no relapse was recorded to date.

Conclusions

Though MG typically precedes NMOSD and thymectomy is frequently performed, it is not a prerequisite for NMOSD development but may represent a potential risk factor. MG generally follows a benign course, in contrast to the more aggressive nature of NMOSD. The utility of biological agents such as inebilizumab for patients with both NMOSD combined with MG warrants further attention.
Understanding trends in osteoporosis drug prescribing: implications for reducing futile biomedical research
Authors: Guillemot Jonathan R. , Abraham John W. , Tinker Anthea
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Osteoporosis is a significant geriatric condition, considering its impact on fracture-related morbidity and mortality, particularly among older women. The interplay of clinical evidence, diagnostic tools availability, and broader societal attitudes toward aging and treatment efficacy affect medical attitude and prescribing behaviors. Using the example of osteoporosis in France and England, the study aims to unravel the intricacies of medical decision-making in geriatric care, offering insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare policy and practice, which in turn can help reduce futile biomedical research.

Methods

We employed documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews. Documentary analysis involved examining public policy documents related to osteoporosis management in England and France to identify trends in regulatory policies influencing prescribing practices. Semi-structured interviews with physicians explored prescriber decision-making processes, treatment initiation, and compliance management, providing insights into clinical practice complexities.

Results

The policy analysis uncovered 157 documents between 2015 and 2016, updated in 2018, revealing distinct policy clusters and outliers shaping osteoporosis management in England and France. Therapeutic indications generally mirrored marketing authorizations. Reimbursable therapeutic indications in France showed fluctuating availability, reflecting changes in policy priorities and patient demographics. Clinical guidelines evolved to encompass diverse osteoporosis types and treatment options, guided by evidence-based recommendations and healthcare system considerations. Trust dynamics between physicians, pharmaceutical companies, and health authorities influenced prescribing trends, with variations in reliance on standardized protocols and collaborative decision-making observed between England and France.

Discussion

Understanding trends in osteoporosis drug prescribing is crucial for optimizing healthcare policy and practice. Our study highlights the complex factors influencing prescribing patterns in England and France, emphasizing the role of trust in shaping physician behaviors. By addressing barriers to treatment uptake and enhancing patient outcomes, targeted interventions can be developed to reduce futile biomedical research and improve healthcare resource allocation.
[18F]FDG PET/CT versus [18F]FDG PET/MRI in staging of non-small cell lung cancer: a head-to-head comparative meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Dandan , Chen Chaolin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This meta-analysis aims to compare the diagnostic efficacy of [18F]FDG PET/CT and [18F]FDG PET/MRI in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

An extensive literature search was conducted throughout the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases for works accessible through September 2024. We included studies assessed the diagnostic efficacy of [18F]FDG PET/CT and [18F]FDG PET/MRI in NSCLC.

Results

The meta-analysis includes six studies with a total of 437 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of [18F]FDG PET/CT and [18F]FDG PET/MRI for detecting lymph node metastasis were similar, at 0.82 (0.68–0.94) vs. 0.86 (0.70–0.97) and 0.88 (0.76–0.96) vs. 0.90 (0.85–0.94), respectively, with no significant differences (p = 0.70 for sensitivity, p = 0.75 for specificity). For distant metastasis, the sensitivity of [18F]FDG PET/CT and [18F]FDG PET/MRI was 0.86 (0.60–1.00) and 0.93 (0.63–1.00), and specificity was 0.89 (0.65–1.00) vs. 0.90 (0.64–1.00), respectively, also showing no significant differences (p = 0.66 for sensitivity, p = 0.97 for specificity).

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis shows that [18F]FDG PET/MRI has similar sensitivity and specificity to [18F]FDG PET/CT in identifying lymph node and distant metastases in patients with NSCLC. Additional larger sample prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023479817, CRD42023479817.
Monosaccharide coatings on nanoparticles affect protein corona formation but not the interaction with their binding receptor
Authors: Clemente Eva , Mateu Ruth , Ferreira Avelino , Ludtke Tanja , Lopez Hender , Moya Sergio E. , Lay Luigi , Soliman Mahmoud G. , Monopoli Marco P.
Published: January 2025

Surface coatings with polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymers have often been employed to improve nanoparticles (NPs) biocompatibility and extend circulation time by reducing protein adsorption. PEGylated NPs benefit from steric hindrance and repulsion effects, which are influenced by PEG molecular weight, density, and chain conformation. However, repetitive exposure to PEG can trigger acute and chronic immunological responses as a result of the development of Immunoglobulin G anti-PEG antibodies. NPs functionalisation with glycans has become an emerging approach to increase their biocompatibility as these biomolecules are highly hydrophilic, biocompatible interact with biological receptors expressed in the body, and can be conjugated, controlling their orientation. In this study, we developed a series of gold NPs (AuNPs) coated with PEG linkers of different lengths and conjugated with mannose (Man) or sialic acid (Sia) glycans, and we carried out a detailed characterisation prior to and after exposure to biological fluids to study their behaviour and protein corona formation. Our findings show that the glycan-coated NPs exhibit stabilisation after protein interaction, with Man coatings showing the lowest protein affinity and that the glycans are biologically active and capable of binding to glycan receptors (such as Concanavalin A) despite the presence of a complex protein environment. Results indicate that glycan modification of PEGylated NPs reduces nonspecific interactions while preserving active targeting properties, underscoring their potential for therapeutic applications.
Gender differences in oxyhemoglobin (oxy-Hb) changes during drawing interactions in romantic couples: an fNIRS study
Authors: Huang Xinxin , Bai Limin , Chen Yantong , Cui Hongsen , Wang Lishen
Published: January 2025

Interpersonal interaction is essential to romantic couples. Understanding how gender impacts an individual’s brain activities during intimate interaction is crucial. The present study examined gender differences in oxyhemoglobin (oxy-Hb) changes during real-time drawing interactions between members of romantic couples using non-invasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). We analyzed the oxy-Hb concentrations of romantic couples engaged in interactive (i.e., chase and escape) and non-interactive (i.e., individual) drawing sessions. Our findings indicated that males (vs. females) exhibited more pronounced oxy-Hb concentrations in Broca’s area, motor area, sensorimotor cortex, and temporal lobe areas than women in an interactive drawing task, suggesting a heightened goal-oriented engagement in social interaction. Significant positive correlations were found between oxy-Hb volumes of the temporal area and the Quality of Relationship Index (QRI), underscoring the impact of interpersonal dynamics on brain function during interactive tasks. This study deepens the understanding of gender differences in neural mechanisms in social interaction tasks and provides important insights for intimacy research.
Altered cortical activation patterns in post-stroke patients during walking with two-channel functional electrical stimulation: a functional near-infrared spectroscopy observational study
Authors: Xu Sheng , Zhu Shizhe , Li Minyao , Zhang Tianjiao , Wang Qinglei , Sui Youxin , Shen Ying , Chaojie Kan , Zhuang Ren , Guo Chuan , Wang Tong , Zhu Lan
Published: January 2025

Restoration of independent walking ability is the primary objective of stroke rehabilitation; however, not all patients achieve this goal due to diverse impairments in the paretic lower limb and compensatory mechanisms that lead to an asymmetrical and mechanically inefficient gait. This investigation aimed to examine alterations in cortical activation in post-stroke patients while walking with a wearable two-channel functional electrical stimulation (FES) in comparison to walking without FES. This observational study was conducted to discern distinct activation patterns in 19 stroke patients during sessions with and without FES, while using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to monitor changes in blood oxygen levels. Our findings revealed only a significant reduction in ΔOxy-Hb in the contralesional pre-motor cortex (z = −2.803, p = 0.005) during the FES-on walking sessions compared to the FES-off sessions. Furthermore, all regions in the FES-on session exhibited lower ΔOxy-Hb. Conversely, no significant differences were observed in ΔDeoxy-Hb. Moreover, a significant correlation was found between decrease in cPMC and the reduced cost time of walking under FES-on condition. The fNIRS analysis revealed diminished activation in the contralesional pre-motor cortex when walking with FES, implying that FES may facilitate a more automatic gait pattern while reducing a patient’s reliance on contralesional cortical resources. The findings of this study lay the groundwork for long-term neural rehabilitation.
Small subcortical ischemic infarction and other DWI lesions establish predictive model for MES
Authors: Zhao Liming , Xu Yicheng , Zhao Hongqin , Wang Senlin , Zhang Jiatang , Tian Chenglin , Zhang Aijuan , Zhang Zengchao , Ji Tailing , Wang Zhengang
Published: January 2025

Objective

The relationship between small subcortical ischemic infarction remains poorly characterized. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the association between artery-to-artery embolization and small subcortical infarctions.

Methods

This retrospective observational cross-sectional study enrolling 230 patients with acute middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke classified into the microembolic signals-positive (MES+) and MES-negative (MES−) groups. The diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) infarction patterns in the MCA were divided into the territorial, border zone (BZ), cortical, and subcortical infarcts. We set the standard of small subcortical infarction (SCI) into two levels: < 10 mm diameter and <5 mm diameter. Relevant DWI parameters were used to build a nomogram for MES+, using free statistics.

Results

MES occurred in 38 of the 230 cases, yielding a positivity rate of 16.5%. BZ, SCI <10 mm, cortical ischemia (CI), stenosis, white blood cell count, and gender were compared between the MES+ and MES− groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that BZ, SCI < 10 mm, and CI were independently associated with MES. Based on DWI parameters, a nomogram model was built for MES+. The area under the curve of the model was 0.826 (95%CI 0.764 to 0.889). In internal cross-validation, the slope of the calibration curve was 1.000, indicating that the model accurately predicted unsuccessful treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

Small subcortical infarctions are associated with MES. In the present study, we built a predictive nomogram model for MES+ based on small subcortical infarctions and other DWI parameters. This model demonstrated good performance in clinical practice.
Prognostic value of multi-PLD ASL radiomics in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Shen Yuan , Zhang Xianxian , Li Qingqing , Dong Congsong , Wang Shu , Sun Haihua , Chen Mingzhu , Xu Xiaolu , Pan Pinglei , Dai Zhenyu , Chen Fei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Early prognosis prediction of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) can support clinicians in choosing personalized treatment plans. The aim of this study is to develop a machine learning (ML) model that uses multiple post-labeling delay times (multi-PLD) arterial spin labeling (ASL) radiomics features to achieve early and precise prediction of AIS prognosis.

Methods

This study enrolled 102 AIS patients admitted between December 2020 and September 2024. Clinical data, such as age and baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, were collected. Radiomics features were extracted from cerebral blood flow (CBF) images acquired through multi-PLD ASL. Features were selected using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, and three models were developed: a clinical model, a CBF radiomics model, and a combined model, employing eight ML algorithms. Model performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves and decision curve analysis (DCA). Shapley Additive exPlanations was applied to interpret feature contributions.

Results

The combined model of extreme gradient boosting demonstrated superior predictive performance, achieving an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.876. Statistical analysis using the DeLong test revealed its significant outperformance compared to both the clinical model (AUC = 0.658, p < 0.001) and the CBF radiomics model (AUC = 0.755, p = 0.002). The robustness of all models was confirmed through permutation testing. Furthermore, DCA underscored the clinical utility of the combined model. The prognostic prediction of AIS was notably influenced by the baseline NIHSS score, age, as well as texture and shape features of CBF.

Conclusion

The integration of clinical data and multi-PLD ASL radiomics features in a model offers a secure and dependable approach for predicting the prognosis of AIS, particularly beneficial for patients with contraindications to contrast agents. This model aids clinicians in devising individualized treatment plans, ultimately enhancing patient prognosis.
The effects of mirror therapy with neuromuscular electrical stimulation on motor and sensory functions in patients with common peroneal nerve injury
Authors: Chu Xiaolei , Liang Jiajia , Gao Mingwei , Zhao Xiaoxuan , Sun Jiaojiao , Liu Wenjie , Zhao Donglin , Xing Zheng , Li Qi
Published: January 2025

Background

Injuries to the common peroneal nerve often result in significant sensory and motor function loss, severely affecting patients’ quality of life. Although existing treatments, including medication and surgery, provide some degree of efficacy, their effectiveness is limited by factors such as tolerance and adverse side effects.

Methods

This study aims to evaluate the effects of a 4-week regimen of mirror therapy combined with neuromuscular electrical stimulation on lower limb function, muscle strength, and sensation in patients with common peroneal nerve injuries. The objective is to identify novel therapeutic strategies for lower limb peripheral nerve injuries.30 patients with Common peroneal nerve caused by pelvic fractures were selected from the Rehabilitation Medicine Department of Tianjin Hospital between July 2023 and July 2024. They were randomly divided into two groups: the neuromuscular electrical stimulation group (n = 15) and the mirror therapy with neuromuscular electrical stimulation group (n = 15).

Results

After 4 weeks, it was found that mirror therapy with neuromuscular electrical stimulation has a significantly better therapeutic effect on Common peroneal nerve than simple electrical stimulation therapy, particularly in terms of superficial sensation, nerve conduction velocity and ROM.
MetaboLINK is a novel algorithm for unveiling cell-specific metabolic pathways in longitudinal datasets
Authors: Lichtarge Jared , Cappuccio Gerarda , Pati Soumya , Dei-Ampeh Alfred Kwabena , Sing Senghong , Ma LiHua , Liu Zhandong , Maletic-Savatic Mirjana
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In the rapidly advancing field of ‘omics research, there is an increasing demand for sophisticated bioinformatic tools to enable efficient and consistent data analysis. As biological datasets, particularly metabolomics, become larger and more complex, innovative strategies are essential for deciphering the intricate molecular and cellular networks.

Methods

We introduce a pioneering analytical approach that combines Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with Graphical Lasso (GLASSO). This method is designed to reduce the dimensionality of large datasets while preserving significant variance. For the first time, we applied the PCA-GLASSO algorithm (i.e., MetaboLINK) to metabolomics data derived from Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy performed on neural cells at various developmental stages, from human embryonic stem cells to neurons.

Results

The MetaboLINK analysis of longitudinal metabolomics data has revealed distinct pathways related to amino acids, lipids, and energy metabolism, uniquely associated with specific cell progenies. These findings suggest that different metabolic pathways play a critical role at different stages of cellular development, each contributing to diverse cellular functions.

Discussion

Our study demonstrates the efficacy of the MetaboLINK approach in analyzing NMR-based longitudinal metabolomic datasets, highlighting key metabolic shifts during cellular transitions. We share the methodology and the code to advance general ‘omics research, providing a powerful tool for dissecting large datasets in neurobiology and other fields.
Low-dose intranasal deferoxamine modulates memory, neuroinflammation, and the neuronal transcriptome in the streptozotocin rodent model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Fine Jared M. , Kosyakovsky Jacob , Bowe Tate T. , Faltesek Katherine A. , Stroebel Benjamin M. , Abrahante Juan E. , Kelly Michael R. , Thompson Elizabeth A. , Westby Claire M. , Robertson Kiley M. , Frey William H. , Hanson Leah R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Intranasal (IN) deferoxamine (DFO) has emerged over the past decade as a promising therapeutic in preclinical experiments across neurodegenerative and neurovascular diseases. As an antioxidant iron chelator, its mechanisms are multimodal, involving the binding of brain iron and the consequent engagement of several pathways to counter pathogenesis across multiple diseases. We and other research groups have shown that IN DFO rescues cognitive impairment in several rodent models of Alzheimer Disease (AD).

Methods

This study was designed to probe dosing regimens to inform future clinical trials, while exploring mechanisms within the intracerebroventricular (ICV) streptozotocin (STZ) model.

Results

Five weeks of daily IN dosing of Long Evans rats with 15 μL of a 1% (0.3 mg), but not 0.1% (0.03 mg), solution of DFO rescued cognitive impairment caused by ICV STZ administration as assessed with the Morris Water Maze (MWM) test of spatial memory and learning. Furthermore, IN DFO modulated several aspects of the neuroinflammatory milieu of the ICV STZ model, which was assessed through a novel panel of brain cytokines and immunohistochemistry. Using RNA-sequencing and pathway analysis, STZ was shown to induce several pathways of cell death and neuroinflammation, and IN DFO engaged multiple transcriptomic pathways involved in hippocampal neuronal survival.

Discussion

To our knowledge this study is the first to assess the transcriptomic pathways and mechanisms associated with either the ICV STZ model or DFO treatment, and the first to demonstrate efficacy at this low dose.
Age-dependent interaction between serum zinc and triglyceride-glucose index among American adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Lai Jun , Li Xin-Qing , Zheng Yinglin , Liu Zongyan , Wu Qiquan , Cao Yongxiao
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Zinc plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism. The association between serum zinc and insulin resistance has recently been investigated as well, but the findings are inconsistent. The triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) is frequently utilized in epidemiological research to assess insulin resistance. The association between serum zinc levels and TyG has not yet been explored. Therefore, we designed this cross-sectional study to assess the relationship between serum zinc and TyG in adults using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was performed on 1,610 adults aged ≥20 years who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2016. The participants were stratified by age, and the differences in log-transformed serum zinc quartiles and TyG were further evaluated in age groups <60 years and ≥60 years using multivariable linear regression with an interaction test. Additionally, a restricted cubic spline (RCS) model was employed to examine the dose-response relationships between log-transformed serum zinc and TyG.

Results

In this cross-sectional study, a significant interaction was observed between log-transformed serum zinc and TyG in individuals aged <60 years and those aged ≥60 years when log-transformed serum zinc was transformed into a categorical variable (P-value for the likelihood ratio test for the interaction was P = 0.017). Additionally, in the fully adjusted analyses, the association between log-transformed serum zinc and TyG in the age <60 years group demonstrated a J-shaped nonlinear pattern (P for nonlinearity = 0.014), with an inflection point at ~1.94 μg/dL. While in the age ≥60 years group, it exhibited an inverted-L shaped nonlinear pattern (P for nonlinearity < 0.001***).

Conclusion

There is a significant relationship between log-transformed serum zinc and TyG in adults in the United States, with age potentially influencing this association. Further prospective studies are needed to offer additional evidence and insights into these findings.
Impact of corticosteroids on the efficacy of CD19/22 CAR-T cell therapy in pediatric patients with B-ALL: a single-center study
Authors: Yang Jing , Zhang Jing , Wan Xinyu , Cai Jiaoyang , Wang Tianyi , Yang Xiaomin , Li Wenjie , Ding Lixia , Song Lili , Miao Yan , Wang Xiang , Ma Yani , Luo Chengjuan , Tang Jingyan , Gu Longjun , Chen Jing , Lu Jun , Tang Yanjing , Li Benshang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Corticosteroids are used for toxicity management, raising concerns about whether they may affect the anti-leukemic effects of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells.

Methods and results

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed patients (fined two subgroups based on disease burden. Of the 75 cases in the low disease burden (LDB) group (MRD < 5%, no extramedullary disease), there was no significant difference between the use of steroids and event-free survival (EFS) (p = 0.21) and overall survival (OS) (p = 0.26), and the same was found for the 119 cases in the high disease burden (HDB) group. After eliminating the effect of consolidative transplantation on the prognosis, the EFS of the patients who did not use steroids was better (p = 0.037) in the LDB group, but the difference was not significant in the HDB group. The median cumulative dexamethasone-equivalent dose was 0.56 mg/kg, and the EFS and OS were similar in the different cumulative dose groups. Furthermore, there was no difference in the recovery of B cells and the expansion of CAR-T cell copies.

Conclusion and discussion

In conclusion, under the guidance of current CRS prevention and control measures, the rational use of corticosteroids does not affect the clinical efficacy and overall survival of CAR-T cell therapy in patients with B-ALL and also does not affect the persistence of CAR-T cells in vivo, but the dosage threshold needs further clinical or experimental verification.