bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The clinical efficacy of a novel smartphone-based salivary self-test for the prediction of pre-eclampsia, pregnancy-induced hypertension and intrauterine growth restriction: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Püschl Ida Catharina , Bonde Lisbeth , Gerds Thomas Alexander , Tackney Mia Sato , Quest James , Sorensen Bjarke Lund , Macklon Nicholas Stephen
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This study investigated the efficacy of a digital health solution utilizing smartphone images of colorimetric test-strips for home-based salivary uric acid (sUA) measurement to predict pre-eclampsia (PE), pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

Methods

495 pregnant women were included prospectively at Zealand University Hospital, Denmark. They performed weekly self-tests from mid-pregnancy until delivery and referred these for analysis by a smartphone-app. Baseline characteristics were obtained at recruitment and pregnancy outcomes from the journals. The mean compliance rate of self-testing was assessed. For the statistical analyses, standard color analyses deduced the images into the red-green-blue (RGB) color model value, to observe the individual, longitudinal pattern throughout the pregnancy for each outcome. Extended color analyses were applied, deducing the images into 72 individual color variables that reflected the four dominant color models. The individual discriminatory ability was assessed by calculating the area under the curve for the outcome of PE, and the outcome of hypertensive pregnancy disorders solely or combined with IUGR at 25 weeks of gestation and for the weekly color change between 20 and 25 weeks of gestation.

Results

Thirty-four women (6.9%) developed PE, 17 (3.4%) PIH, and 10 (2.0%) IUGR. The overall mean compliance rate was 67%, increasing to 77% after updating the smartphone-app halfway through the study. The longitudinal pattern of the RGB value showed a wide within-person variability, and discrimination was not achieved. However, it was noted that all women with IUGR repeatedly had RGB values below 110, contrasting women with non-IUGR. Significant discriminatory ability was achieved for 8.2% of the analyses of individual color variables, of which 27.4% summarized the Hue color variable. However, the analyses lacked consistency regarding outcome group and gestational age.

Conclusion

This study is the first proof-of-concept that digital self-tests utilizing colorimetric sUA measurement for the prediction of PE, PIH, and IUGR is acceptable to pregnant women. The discriminatory ability was not found be sufficient to have clinical value. However, being the first study that compares individual color variables of the four dominant color models, this study adds important methodological insights into the expanding field of smartphone-assisted colorimetric test-strips.
Renoprotective effects of remote ischemic preconditioning on acute kidney injury induced by repeated tourniquet application in patients undergoing extremity surgery
Authors: Tao Ziying , Zhang Yang , Kong Erliang , Wei Haili , Li Mingyue , Sun Shuhui , Liu Liwei , Yin Daqing , Feng Xudong
Published: December 2024

Objective

Limb ischemia–reperfusion injury caused by repeated tourniquet application usually leads to acute kidney injury, adversely affecting patient prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the renoprotective effect of remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) in patients undergoing extremity surgery with repeated tourniquet application.

Methods

64 patients were enrolled and randomly divided into an RIPC group and a control group, with 32 patients in each. Pretreatment was administered before surgery, and baseline characteristics were collected. Perioperative surgical characteristics, renal biomarkers, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory factors, and postoperative conditions were recorded.

Results

2 participant were excluded from each group, leaving 30 patients per group. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding baseline characteristics and perioperative surgical characteristics (p > 0.05). Compared to the control group, the RIPC group showed a significant decrease in BUN and SCr at 48 h postoperatively (p < 0.05). Levels of Cys-C, [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP-7], KIM-1, IL-18, and NGAL were significantly reduced at the first and second tourniquet releases and at 24 h postoperatively in the RIPC group (p < 0.05). From the first tourniquet release to 48 h postoperatively, MDA levels were significantly lower (p < 0.05) and SOD levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the RIPC group compared to the control group. Postoperative conditions did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusion

RIPC effectively mitigated acute kidney injury caused by repeated tourniquet application, offering a robust method for perioperative renal protection in patients undergoing extremity surgery. Future studies should explore the underlying mechanisms and long-term clinical outcomes of RIPC in broader patient populations.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=231266.
Case report: Cilioretinal artery occlusion combined with central retinal vein occlusion as the initial presentation of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Gao Yane , Xie Xiaofeng , Li Jiao , Mu Qingshuai , Wang Xingrong , Wang Shuya
Published: December 2024

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure and vascular resistance, leading to systemic venous hypertension and potential right heart failure. These elevated pressures can extend to ocular veins, resulting in complications such as central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). This case report highlights a rare instance of CRVO combined with cilioretinal artery occlusion (CilRAO), an uncommon ocular manifestation associated with PAH.

Case presentation

A 13-year-old girl with a history of surgically repaired ventricular septal defect presented with sudden vision loss and a central visual field defect. Investigation confirmed CRVO and an unusual concurrent CilRAO. Although laboratory tests were inconclusive, the echocardiographic examination suggested severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The patient received treatment with Bosentan and traditional Chinese medicine, which improved her vision to 20/20, though a paracentral scotoma remained.

Conclusion

This case underscores the critical link between systemic cardiovascular abnormalities and ocular health in PAH, where elevated venous pressure can result in severe and distinctive ocular manifestations. The co-occurrence of CRVO and CilRAO in this patient highlights the susceptibility of cilioretinal arteries to hemodynamic changes, as these arteries lack autoregulatory capacity. Additionally, this case demonstrates the potential for positive outcomes in ocular lesions with targeted PAH therapy. Importantly, it emphasizes the need for vigilance when managing complex cases where conclusions cannot be drawn solely from ocular findings. A multidisciplinary approach and comprehensive diagnostics are essential for identifying underlying causes, ensuring active treatment, and preventing permanent vision loss and serious systemic complications.
Predictors of sepsis in trauma patients: a National Trauma Data Bank analysis
Authors: Bou Chebl Ralphe , Alwan Joudie Sahar , Bakkar Mounay , Haidar Saadeddine , Bachir Rana , El Sayed Mazen , Abou Dagher Gilbert
Published: December 2024

Background

Trauma remains a global health issue being one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Sepsis and infections are common complications contributing to mortality, emphasizing the need to understand factors leading to such complications following trauma.

Aim

This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with post-trauma sepsis using data from the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB).

Methods

Using the 2017 National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB), this is a retrospective case–control study that looked at pre-hospital and in-hospital patient data. Trauma patients aged over 15 years presenting to the emergency department (ED) and admitted to a tertiary care center were included. The primary outcome assessed was the development of sepsis post-trauma. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors, considering patient demographics, injury characteristics, and clinical variables.

Results

Among 997,970 trauma patients in the 2017 NTDB, 296,974 were excluded, leaving 700,996 patients for analysis, with 2,297 developing sepsis. Patients who developed sepsis were older than those who did not develop sepsis (mean age 57.57 vs. 53.42 years, p-value<0.001) and predominantly white males. Risk factors associated with sepsis development included: respiratory intubation with mechanical ventilation (OR = 11.99; 95% CI = 10.66–13.48), blood transfusion administration (OR = 2.03; 95% CI = 1.83–2.25), Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16 (OR = 1.69; 95% CI = 1.51–1.89), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.44–1.89), diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.26–1.58), male sex (OR = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.28–1.57), hypertension (HTN) (OR = 1.30; 95% CI = 1.16–1.45), anticoagulation therapy (OR = 1.21; 95% CI = 1.05–1.39), older age (OR = 1.02; 95% CI = 1.01–1.02), and current smoking status (OR = 1.18; 95% CI = 1.06–1.32).

Conclusion

This study identified key risk factors for post-trauma sepsis. Recognition of preexisting conditions and injury severity is crucial in trauma patient management to mitigate septic complications. Early identification of at-risk patients could facilitate timely interventions and potentially reduce mortality rates in trauma care settings.
Exploring Trichoderma diversity in the Western Ghats of India: phylogenetic analysis, metabolomics insights and biocontrol efficacy against Maydis Leaf Blight disease
Authors: Manzar Nazia , Kashyap Abhijeet Shankar , Roy Manish , Sharma Pawan Kumar , Srivastava Alok Kumar
Published: December 2024

The Western Ghats of India is recognized as one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity. Trichoderma—a well-known biocontrol agent, was explored from this hotspot. A total of 260 Trichoderma spp. isolates were studied, with 9% exhibiting strong biocontrol potential and crop growth-promoting activity. Furthermore, this study identified three novel isolates—Trichoderma caribbaeum var. caribbaeum, Trichoderma lixii, and Trichoderma brevicompactum—which are reported for the first time from the Western Ghats making a significant contribution to the field. Based on internal transcribed spacer ribosomal RNA (ITS-rRNA) and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef-1α) gene sequence analysis, molecular characterization, identified major isolates as Trichoderma koningiopsis, Trichoderma asperellum, T. caribbaeum var. caribbaeum, T. lixii, T. brevicompactum, Trichoderma atroviride, and Trichoderma erinaceum. Seed biopriming with the effective Trichoderma strain TR11 reduced the maydis leaf blight (MLB) disease index to 32.92% and improved plant growth-promoting attributes in maize. Defensive enzyme activities were increased 2.5–4.2-fold in various treatments with the TR11 isolate, along with enhanced lignification postpathogen inoculation, indicating strengthened plant defense mechanisms. The promising strain T. brevicompactum-TR11 produces secondary metabolites; among them, 5% were found to have a role in biocontrol activity such as octadecanoic acid, palmitic acid-TMS, 5-(4-nitrophenoxymethyl), furane-2-carboxaldehyde, and stearic acid-TMS, phosphoric acid-3TMS, galactopyranose, 5TMS. This study explored Trichoderma diversity in the Western Ghats of India with phylogenetic relationship, metabolomics insights, and biocontrol efficacy against MLB disease.
Effects of Vaccinium-derived antioxidants on human health: the past, present and future
Authors: Ghosh Amrita , Debnath Samir C. , Igamberdiev Abir U.
Published: December 2024

Dietary intake of Vaccinium berries has demonstrated significant potential in preventing many risk factors associated with metabolic syndromes in the human population. In recent years, a multitude of research has shown the role of antioxidants derived from Vaccinium berries on chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Several studies have also investigated the effect of Vaccinium berry consumption on their ability to modulate the risk factors associated with oxidative stress, vascular function, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. Regarding cancer, studies showed that the consumption of berries reduces inflammation, inhibits angiogenesis, protects against DNA damage within the cell, and controls apoptosis and proliferation rates in malignant tumours. However, which components are responsible for the health benefits is still unclear. Reports show that whole berry consumption usually confers positive effects on human health, and the health-promoting potentials are likely due to the presence of polyphenols with antioxidant activities. Among these polyphenols, various Vaccinium berry species have been reported to contain anthocyanins and flavonoids. These two polyphenolic compounds are known to have higher antioxidant activity and are beneficial for human health. There are now several studies and human clinical trials documenting the beneficial effects of Vaccinium berries, and these findings suggest that they may be promising for preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases. This review focuses primarily on dietary Vaccinium berries consumption effects on human health and their potential role as therapeutic agents.
Multidimensional relationships between sensory perception and cognitive aging
Authors: Kannan Lakshmi , Lelo de Larrea-Mancera Esteban Sebastian , Maniglia Marcello , Vodyanyk Mariya M. , Gallun Frederick J. , Jaeggi Susanne M. , Seitz Aaron R.
Published: December 2024

A growing literature suggests that declines in sensory/perceptual systems predate cognitive declines in aging, and furthermore, they are highly predictive for developing Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s related dementias (ADRD). While vision, hearing, olfaction, and vestibular function have each been shown to be related to ADRD, their causal relations to cognitive declines, how they interact with each other remains to be clarified. Currently, there is substantial debate whether sensory/perceptual systems that fail early in disease progression are causal in their contributions to cognitive load and/or social isolation or are simply coincident declines due to aging. At the same time, substantial declines in any of these senses requires compensation, can strain other neural processes and impact activities of daily living, including social engagement, quality of life, and the risk of falls. In this perspective piece, we review literature that illustrates the different relationships between sensory/perceptual systems, cognitive aging and ADRD. We suggest that broadly administered and precise assessment of sensory/perceptual functions could facilitate early detection of ADRD and pave the way for intervention strategies that could help reduce the multifaceted risk of developing ADRD and to improve everyday functioning as people age.
Acceleration of spontaneous visual recovery by voluntary physical exercise in adolescent amblyopic rats
Authors: Di Marco Irene , Sansevero Gabriele , Berardi Nicoletta , Sale Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Abnormal visual experience during development resulting from an imbalance in the activity of the two eyes can lead to permanent severe visual deficits, a pathology called amblyopia (lazy eye). While this condition is extremely difficult to treat in adults, current interventions can elicit significant amounts of visual recovery when performed in juveniles before the end of the critical period, even if the achievable results can be unsatisfactory due to the progressive decline in visual cortical plasticity. Similarly to human subjects, rodents becoming amblyopic due to early visual deprivation can display spontaneous functional recovery if the deprivation ends within the critical period time window. With the aim to investigate the impact of non-invasive strategies able to increase this spontaneous potential for plasticity, we wondered whether physical exercise could speed up spontaneous recovery of visual functions in juvenile amblyopic rats. Our results show that physical exercise accelerates visual recovery in adolescent rats, encouraging application of behavioral plasticizing treatments to promote recovery in young individuals.
Learning delays through gradients and structure: emergence of spatiotemporal patterns in spiking neural networks
Authors: Mészáros Balázs , Knight James C. , Nowotny Thomas
Published: December 2024

We present a Spiking Neural Network (SNN) model that incorporates learnable synaptic delays through two approaches: per-synapse delay learning via Dilated Convolutions with Learnable Spacings (DCLS) and a dynamic pruning strategy that also serves as a form of delay learning. In the latter approach, the network dynamically selects and prunes connections, optimizing the delays in sparse connectivity settings. We evaluate both approaches on the Raw Heidelberg Digits keyword spotting benchmark using Backpropagation Through Time with surrogate gradients. Our analysis of the spatio-temporal structure of synaptic interactions reveals that, after training, excitation and inhibition group together in space and time. Notably, the dynamic pruning approach, which employs DEEP R for connection removal and RigL for reconnection, not only preserves these spatio-temporal patterns but outperforms per-synapse delay learning in sparse networks. Our results demonstrate the potential of combining delay learning with dynamic pruning to develop efficient SNN models for temporal data processing. Moreover, the preservation of spatio-temporal dynamics throughout pruning and rewiring highlights the robustness of these features, providing a solid foundation for future neuromorphic computing applications.
Multi-view fusion of diffusion MRI microstructural models: a preterm birth study
Authors: Trò Rosella , Roascio Monica , Tortora Domenico , Severino Mariasavina , Rossi Andrea , Garyfallidis Eleftherios , Arnulfo Gabriele , Fato Marco Massimo , Fadnavis Shreyas
Published: December 2024

Objective

High Angular Resolution Diffusion Imaging (HARDI) models have emerged as a valuable tool for investigating microstructure with a higher degree of detail than standard diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging (dMRI). In this study, we explored the potential of multiple advanced microstructural diffusion models for investigating preterm birth in order to identify non-invasive markers of altered white matter development.

Approach

Rather than focusing on a single MRI modality, we studied on a compound of HARDI techniques in 46 preterm babies studied on a 3T scanner at term-equivalent age and in 23 control neonates born at term. Furthermore, we investigated discriminative patterns of preterm birth using multiple analysis methods, drawn from two only seemingly divergent modeling goals, namely inference and prediction. We thus resorted to (i) a traditional univariate voxel-wise inferential method, as the Tract-Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) approach; (ii) a univariate predictive approach, as the Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification; and (iii) a multivariate predictive Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA).

Main results

The TBSS analysis revealed significant differences between preterm and term cohorts in several white matter areas for multiple HARDI features. SVM classification on skeletonized HARDI measures yielded satisfactory accuracy, particularly for highly informative parameters about fiber directionality. Assessment of the degree of overlap between the two methods in voting for the most discriminating features exhibited a good, though parameter-dependent, rate of agreement. Finally, CCA identified joint changes precisely for those measures exhibiting less correspondence between TBSS and SVM.

Significance

Our results suggest that a data-driven intramodal imaging approach is crucial for gathering deep and complementary information. The main contribution of this methodological outline is to thoroughly investigate prematurity-related white matter changes through different inquiry focuses, with a view to addressing this issue, both aiming toward mechanistic insight and optimizing predictive accuracy.
Activation of mechanoreceptor Piezo1 inhibits enteric neuronal growth and migration in vitro
Authors: Moneme Chioma , Olutoye Oluyinka O. , Sobstel Michał F. , Zhang Yuwen , Zhou Xinyu , Kaminer Jacob L. , Hsu Britney A. , Shen Chengli , Mandal Arabinda , Li Hui , Yu Ling , Balaji Swathi , Keswani Sundeep G. , Cheng Lily S.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Dysfunction of the enteric nervous system (ENS) is linked to a myriad of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Piezo1 is a mechanosensitive ion channel found throughout the GI tract, but its role in the ENS is largely unknown. We hypothesize that Piezo1 plays an important role in the growth and development of the ENS.

Methods

Enteric neural crest-derived progenitor cells (ENPC) were isolated from adult mouse intestine and propagated in culture as neurospheres. ENPC-derived neurons were then subject to in vitro stretch in the presence or absence of Piezo1 antagonist (GsMTx4). Transcriptomes of stretched and unstretched ENPC-derived cells were compared using bulk RNA sequencing. Enteric neurons were also cultured under static conditions in the presence of Piezo1 agonist (Yoda1) or antagonist. Neuronal phenotype, migration, and recovery from injury were compared between groups.

Results

Though stretch did not cause upregulation of Piezo1 expression in enteric neurons, both stretch and Piezo1 activation produced similar alterations in neuronal morphology. Compared to control, neurite length was significantly shorter when stretched and in the presence of Piezo1 activation. Piezo1 inhibition prevented a significant reduction in neurite length in stretched neurons. Piezo1 inhibition also led to significantly increased neuronal migration, whereas Piezo1 activation resulted in significantly decreased neuronal migration and slower neuronal recovery from injury.

Conclusion

Mechanotransduction plays an important role in regulating normal GI function. Our results suggest that the Piezo1 mechanoreceptor may play an important role in the ENS as its activation leads to decreased neuronal growth and migration. Piezo1 could be an important target for diseases of ENS dysfunction and development.
β-adrenergic receptor-induced E-S potentiation in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus
Authors: Trompoukis George , Miliou Athina , Papatheodoropoulos Costas
Published: December 2024

β-adrenergic receptors (β-ARs) play a critical role in modulating learning, memory, emotionality, and long-term synaptic plasticity. Recent studies indicate that β-ARs are necessary for long-term potentiation (LTP) induction in the ventral hippocampus under moderate synaptic activation conditions that do not typically induce LTP. To explore potential dorsoventral differences in β-AR-mediated effects, we applied the β-AR agonist isoproterenol (10 μM, 30 min) to dorsal and ventral hippocampal slices, recording field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) and population spikes (PSs) from the CA1 region. Isoproterenol induced robust, long-lasting PS increases, with effects three times greater in the dorsal compared to the ventral hippocampus. Isoproterenol did not significantly affect fEPSP in either segment of the hippocampus, leading to strong excitatory-to-spike (E-S) potentiation—twice as large as that in the ventral hippocampus. E-S potentiation was not associated with significant paired-pulse inhibition changes in either hippocampal segment. These differences do not appear to result from β1-AR expression levels, as they are comparable across dorsal and ventral hippocampal regions. Overall, the findings suggest that β-AR activation enhances the dorsal hippocampus’s role during stress, facilitating heightened alertness, rapid spatial information processing, and effective navigation necessary for “fight-or-flight” responses.
Composite dietary antioxidant index in relation to urge urinary incontinence in US men
Authors: Jin Xuefeng , Tong Wenhui , Sun Li , Lu Sujue , Xu Tiantian , Sun Pan , Liu Yan , Li Hangxu
Published: December 2024

Background

Urinary incontinence (UI), particularly urge urinary incontinence (UUI), is a prevalent condition that worsens with age and negatively affects quality of life. Antioxidants, measured by the composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI), have been linked to inflammation and other diseases, but their relationship with UUI remains uncertain. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between UUI prevalence and CDAI.

Materials and methods

Data for this cross-sectional study were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey’s four cycles (2011–2018). The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of the relationship between CDAI and male UUI were ascertained by the use of weighted univariate analysis, multivariate logistic regression, restricted cubic spline regression, and subgroup analysis. PSM and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness of the findings.

Results

A total of 7,735 participants took part in this study. After adjusting for potential confounders, CDAI was found to be negatively associated with the prevalence of UUI in those with lower CDAI (about half overall). This relationship lost significance in populations with higher CDAI. The negative correlation between zinc and the prevalence of UUI was more significant in populations with low antioxidant diets. The results remained consistent, with subgroup analyses finding a significant interaction effect for race only after PSM (p = 0.043), with no significant interaction effect observed for the rest.

Conclusion

This study showed a negative correlation between CDAI and UUI incidence in the group of men with low CDAI levels (about half of the population). Thus, effective prevention or treatment of UUI requires dietary changes aimed at the male population with poor antioxidant diets.
Preparation, characterization, and anticancer effect of Capsaicin-functionalized selenium nanoparticles
Authors: Tang Enhui , Ma Ziqing , Zhang Peiting , Chen Yuyang , Zhou Yiman , Wu Jieying , Yang Tingting , Lian Duanya , Wu Xinlan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are recently emerging as promising anticancer agents because of their high bioavailability, low toxicity and remarkable anticancer activities. However, the application of SeNPs in anticancer has been limited due to instability. Herein, Capsaicin (Cap), a natural active compound found in chili peppers with favorable anticancer activity, was modified with SeNPs to prepare Cap-decorated SeNPs (Cap@SeNPs), and the antiproliferative effect and mechanism of Cap@SeNPs in HepG2 were investigated.

Methods

Cap@SeNPs were prepared through a redox method and characterized using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Subsequently, the inhibitory rate of Cap@SeNPs on HepG2 cells was determined by the MTT assay. Finally, the antiproliferative mechanism of Cap@SeNPs was explored through analysis of cell cycle, cell viability, reactive oxygen species levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, nuclear morphology, and caspase activity.

Results

Our results revealed that stable and well-dispersed Cap@SeNPs were successfully fabricated, and the optimum mass ratio of sodium selenite to Cap was 1:2. In addition, Cap@SeNPs showed significant antiproliferative effects on HepG2 cells compared with naked SeNPs. Furthermore, Cap@SeNPs inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells by elevating total ROS levels, causing nuclear condensation, affecting mitochondrial membrane potential, which in turn influences caspase protease activity and induces apoptosis.

Conclusion

This study developed an innovative approach to enhance the value of Cap, demonstrating that Cap@SeNPs hold promise as potential therapeutic agents for cancer treatment.
Effect of plasma homocysteine on cardiometabolic multimorbidity among Chinese adults: a population-based and real-world evidence study
Authors: Li Ling , Wang Jia , Li Jing , Li Minqi , Wang Jie , Long Tianyao , Zhengliu Yangyi , Tan Xuan , Peng Yiwei , Hong Xiuqin
Published: December 2024

Aims

To explore the effect of plasma homocysteine (Hcy) on cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) among Chinses adults.

Methods

This study combined a community-based cross-sectional study with a 1:1 matched case–control study using propensity score method among adults aged over 30 years in six districts randomly selected from Hunan Province, China. We recruited 5,258 people, of whom 4,012 met the study criteria were enrolled. CMM was defined as the coexistence of two or more cardiometabolic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease and stroke. The plasma Hcy and other laboratory data was measured by chemical automatic detector. Lifestyles and personal characteristics were collected by a questionnaire. Multivariate models were used to explore the associations. We calculated the attributable risk proportion (ARP) for the association of Hcy with CMM. The dose–response relationship was evaluated using restricted cubic splines method.

Results

Of the 4,012 adults, 436 had CMM, with a population prevalence of 10.9%. In the propensity-score-matched case–control study, 828 (414 cases and 414 controls) were included, and those with high plasma Hcy level (>16.2 μmol/L) had a higher risk of CMM than those with lowest level (<10.4 μmol/L) (adjusted OR = 2.83, 95% CI: 1.84–4.36, p < 0.001), with a multivariate ARP of high level of exposure was 64.66% (95% CI: 46.24–77.06%). The largest effect combination of CMM was the coexisting of diabetes, hypertension and coronary heart disease (adjusted OR = 2.26, 95%CI: 1.43–3.57, p < 0.001). An inverse association and dose–response relationship were observed between CMM and plasma Hcy levels. Notably, we recognized a significant mediation effect by C-reactive protein, total cholesterol, triglyceride and waist circumference, and they mediated approximately 8 ~ 23% of the effect of Hcy on risk of CMM.

Conclusion

Our findings add new evidence to this field that of high level of plasma Hcy was consistently associated with higher risk of CMM among Chinses adults, with the largest effect combination of being coexisting diabetes, hypertension and coronary heart disease. These findings have implications for cardiologists that CMM can be attributable to high level of plasma Hcy, and for decision makers that Hcy has become a public threat that persistently affects cardiovascular health in humans.
Case report: Treatment of a rare primary cerebellum histiocytic sarcoma with surgery and radiotherapy
Authors: Yanchu Li , Li Zhang , Qiongwen Zhang , Jiayu Duan , Feng Wang
Published: December 2024

Background

Histiocytic sarcoma originates in various tissues, including the skin, lymph nodes, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, bone marrow, and central nervous system. Primary central nervous system histiocytic sarcoma (PCNSHS) is exceptionally rare, known for its aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. This report describes a case of PCNSHS in the cerebellum treated with surgery and radiotherapy.

Case presentation

A 30-year-old woman presented with progressive dizziness and headache. Magnetic resonance imaging scans showed right cerebellar neoplastic lesions approximately 3.6 cm*3.0 cm with cerebral edema and fourth ventricle and brainstem compression. The patient underwent surgical debulking, and the pathological diagnosis was PCNSHS. Two months after the surgery, the patient underwent adjuvant radiotherapy at a dose of 60 Gy. No tumor progression has been observed during the one-year follow-up period.

Conclusions

This case report provides an example of effective central nervous system control using resection and radiation therapy. A review of the literature confirms that surgery alone or combined concurrent or sequential treatment of radiotherapy and chemotherapy is often used; however, the best treatment plan remains unclear. Moreover, the prognosis is poor, with a median survival of six months. Thus, ongoing research aims to better understand the biology of histiocytic sarcomas and find more effective strategies.
An MRI-based radiomics nomogram for preoperative prediction of Ki-67 index in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a two-center study
Authors: Wang Yao , Zhang Jing , Li Qiyuan , Sun Li , Zheng Yingmei , Gao Chuanping , Dong Cheng
Published: December 2024

Background

The expression level of Ki-67 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) affects the prognosis and treatment options of patients. Our study developed and validated an MRI-based radiomics nomogram for preoperative evaluation of Ki-67 expression levels in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

In all, 133 patients with pathologically-confirmed (post-operatively) NPC who underwent MRI examination in one of two medical centers. Data from one medical center (n=105; Ki-67: ≥50% [n=57], <50% [n=48]) formed the training set, while data from another medical center (n=28; Ki-67: ≥50% [n=15], <50% [n=13]) formed the test set. Clinical data and routine MRI results were reviewed to determine significant predictive factors. The minimum absolute shrinkage and selection operator method was used to select key radiomics features to form a radiomics signatures from resonance imaging (MRI), and a radiomics score (Rad-score) was calculated. Subsequently, a radiomics nomogram was established using a logistic regression (LR) algorithm. The predictive performance of the nomogram was evaluated using operating characteristics curve (ROC), decision curve analysis (DCA), and the area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Five radiomics features were selected to build the radiomics signature. The radiomics nomogram incorporating the clinical factors and radiomics signature showed favorable predictive value for expression level of Ki-67, with AUC 0.841 (95% confidence intervals: 0.654 –0.951) for the test set. Decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram outperformed a clinical model in terms of clinical usefulness.

Conclusions

The radiomics nomogram based on MRI effectively predicted the pre-surgical expression level of Ki-67.
Staged microsurgical treatment of a complex scalp arteriovenous fistula combined with type C sAVF and cirsoid aneurysm: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Juncheng , Kuai Tao , Du Aichao , Yu Lihua , Duan Yuzhen , Yuan Guoqiang , Ma Dongming , Pan Yawen
Published: December 2024

Scalp arteriovenous fistula (sAVF) is a rare disease caused by a congenital defect or exogenous injury, but no standard treatment exists. In this article, we report a rare case of sAVF combined with type C sAVF and cirsoid aneurysm (CA), which was successfully treated by staging microsurgery. Individualized surgical incisions were designed based on the size and range of the sAVF, and then staging microsurgery was performed. The first surgery was performed by selectively ligating the supply arteries and fistula of the sAVF. The second surgery was performed by total excision of the vascular malformation a month later. The volume of the vascular malformation in the subcutaneous area decreased after the first surgery, and the vascular malformation in the subcutaneous area was completely removed after the second surgery. In the end, we conclude that the nidus or fistula can be removed entirely through personalized surgical incisions for complicated sAVF combined with type C sAVF and CA.
Configuring thermal ablation volumes for treatment of distinct tumor shapes: a repeatability study using a robotic approach
Authors: Bulatović Milica , Hermann Jan , Tinguely Pascale , Paolucci Iwan , Weber Stefan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

In the current clinical practice of thermal ablation treatment for liver tumors, achieving consistent and effective clinical outcomes across tumors of varying shapes, sizes and locations remains challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the repeatability of a novel robotic approach for configurable ablation of distinct tumor shapes and compare it to the standard ablation technique for creating ellipsoidal ablation volumes.

Materials and methods

The repeatability was evaluated in terms of width variability in created ablation volumes. Using a robotic navigation platform, custom ablation profiles configured with power, time, and distance parameters were designed to create four distinct ablation shapes. The profiles were applied for microwave ablation in a tissue-mimicking liver model. For comparison of ablation shape variability, six standard ellipsoidal shapes were created using the standard ablation technique by configuring power and time parameters. For each sample, the resulting ablation area was segmented, and the resulting shape width and length were calculated at the measurement points. Width variability was calculated as the median of the absolute pairwise differences in width at each measurement point, and configurable versus standard ablation shapes were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

All tissue-mimicking samples were successfully ablated using both configurable (n = 48) and standard ablation technique (n = 35). Study findings revealed noninferiority regarding repeatability of created ablation shapes using the robotic platform for configurable ablation, compared to created standard ellipsoidal ablation shapes (p < 0.001, 95% CI ≤ -0.05 mm, Δ = -0.22 mm). Median repeatability of created configurable shapes was 1.00 mm, and for standard shapes 1.22 mm. Maximal repeatability for both groups was below 3 mm.

Conclusion

The repeatability of configurable ablation shapes was observed to be noninferior to the standard ablation shapes. Achieving configurable ablation volumes underscores the potential to advance personalization of thermal ablation treatment and broaden its applicability to distinct tumor cases. In-vivo validation is needed for evaluation of the clinical implications of this novel treatment technique.
Determinants of quality of life following resection of skull base tumors: a systematic review
Authors: Sperl Veronika , Rhomberg Thomas , Kretschmer Thomas
Published: December 2024

Background

Skull base tumors represent a small subset of intracranial neoplasm. Due to their proximity to critical neurovascular structures, their resection often leads to morbidity. As a result, surgical interventions can exacerbate symptoms or cause new deficits, thereby impacting the patients’ perceived quality of life (QoL). The factors influencing QoL in patients with skull base tumors remain underexplored. This systematic review aims to synthesize current research on QoL outcomes and identify potential factors influencing QoL in these patients.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted in PubMed using the keywords “Skull Base” AND “Quality of Life.” A total of 815 studies published up to January 31, 2024, were screened. After abstract review, 656 studies were excluded, and 159 studies underwent full-text review. The wide variability in study methodologies and utilized QoL instruments made only a descriptive comparison possible.

Results

In total, 113 studies were systematically reviewed. Publications focusing on the same tumor type or localization were compared. The majority of studies addressed tumors of the anterior skull base, with pituitary adenomas, meningiomas and vestibular schwannomas being the most commonly represented. The impact of surgery on QoL is often underestimated by caregivers and has a more profound effect on patients than expected by surgeons. A transient decline in QoL after surgery was observed across almost all studies regardless of localization and entity. Factors influencing QoL included age, gender, tumor localization, surgical approach, tumor type, extent of resection, preoperative clinical status and neurological deficits. Radiotherapy and recurrent surgeries were predictors of poorer QoL. Early psychological intervention in complex tumors appears to enhance QoL. Some successful sealing techniques, such as nasoseptal flaps and lumbar drains, affected QoL. However, variability in study methodologies reduced the validity of the findings.

Conclusion

This review highlights the significant impact of skull base tumor surgery on patients’ QoL. Given the major oncological and surgical challenges presented by skull base tumors, their treatment significantly affects QoL, and gross total resection (GTR) should not always be the primary goal. Additionally, recognizing and addressing the modifiable and non-modifiable factors influencing QoL is crucial for improving patient outcomes and providing personalized care.
A case report and literature review: leiomyosarcoma or perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm?
Authors: Chen Zheng , Zheng Xuan , Lin Qin
Published: December 2024

The distinction between a uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) and a perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm (PEComa) can be quite challenging. Here we report a 39-year-old woman who underwent a hysteroscopic myomectomy. An intraoperative frozen section pathological examination revealed that the mass was likely to be a mesenchymal malignancy. After consultation with her family, a total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were performed. Postoperative pathological examinations suggested leiomyosarcoma but a malignant PEComa cannot be completely excluded. Combining the present case and prior studies, we summarized the clinical manifestations, pathological features, genomic characterization, and treatment of LMS and PEComa.
Incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury in children with nephrotic syndrome: a meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Changdi , Qiu Bingbing , Wang Jianxin , Yang Liuqing , Huang Yanru
Published: December 2024

Background

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a prevalent kidney disease in children. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a severe complication of NS and has the potential to be life-threatening.

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence and risk factors of AKI in children with NS, and to provide an evidence-based medical basis for the early identification of high-risk children in the clinic.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in publicly available databases, namely PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, covering the period from the inception of each database until May 2024. The analysis involved examining basic characteristics (age, sex), the concomitant diseases (hypertension, infections), NS disease characteristics (steroid susceptibility classification, pathologic classification), laboratory test (e.g., serum albumin), and the use of nephrotoxic drugs. Traditional and network meta-analyses were performed for analysis.

Results

A total of 11 studies were included in the analysis, revealing an incidence of AKI of 29% (95% CI: 23%–37%). The analysis of factors indicated that the age of NS onset [standardized mean difference (SMD): 0.31; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.08, 0.54; p = 0.009], sex [odds ratio (OR): 1.49; 95% CI: 1.03, 2.16; p = 0.035], serum albumin level (SMD: −0.43; 95% CI: −0.85, −0.02; p = 0.041), response to steroid treatment (OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.33, 0.80; p = 0.003), infection (OR: 3.60; 95% CI: 1.91, 6.78; p < 0.001), hypertension (OR: 4.02; 95% CI: 2.94, 5.51; p < 0.001), and nephrotoxic drug application (OR: 4.43; 95% CI: 1.86, 10.53; p = 0.001), were all significantly associated with the incidence of AKI. Furthermore, the results of the network meta-analysis suggested that the pathologic type of minor glomerular abnormalities (MGA)/diffuse mesangial proliferation (DMP), the type of infrequent relapses (IFRNS)/steroid-sensitive NS (SSNS), and the use of diuretic medications were associated with a relatively low risk of AKI occurrence.

Conclusion

Factors upon admission of children with NS are associated with the onset of AKI. Emphasis should be placed on populations with a heightened risk of AKI in clinical practice. Further research is warranted to confirm the findings due to the limitations of this study.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024571170, PROSPERO (CRD42024571170).
The endocannabinoid anandamide prevents TH17 programming of activated T lymphocytes while preserving TH1 responses
Authors: Kiprina Anastasiia , Teichmann Tom , Martín Giménez Virna Margarita , Xu Wenqing , Sailer Fiona , Windbergs Maike , Manucha Walter , Weigert Andreas , Brandes Ralf P.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Anandamide (AEA) is an endocannabinoid that has recently been recognized as a regulator of various inflammatory diseases as well as cancer. While AEA was thought to predominantly engage cannabinoid (CB) receptors, recent findings suggest that, given its protective anti-inflammatory role in pathological conditions, anandamide may engage not only CB receptors.

Methods

In this study, we studied the role of exogenous AEA in a mouse AirPouch model of acute inflammation by examining immune cell infiltrates by flow cytometry. Human primary immune cells were used to validate findings towards immune cell activation and migration by flow cytometry and bead-based ELISA.

Results

We found that AEA decreases the acute infiltration of myeloid cells including granulocytes and monocytes into the inflamed area, but unexpectedly increases the number of T cells at the site of inflammation. This was related to AEA signaling through nuclear receptor subfamily 4A (NR4A) transcription factors rather than CB receptors. Exploring regulatory mechanisms in the human system, we found that AEA broadly inhibits the migratory capacity of immune cells, arguing for blocked emigration of T cells from the inflamed tissue. Taking a closer look at the impact of AEA on T cells revealed that AEA profoundly alters the activation and exhaustion status of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells, thereby strongly inhibiting TH17 responses, while not altering TH1 differentiation.

Discussion

These data suggest that AEA has the potential to block chronic inflammation without influencing crucial anti-viral and anti-microbial immune defense mechanisms, and may therefore be an attractive molecule to interfere with the establishment of chronic inflammation.
Mapping heat tolerance QTLs in Triticum durum-Aegilops speltoides backcross introgression lines to enhance thermotolerance in wheat
Authors: Krishnan J. Navaneetha , Kaur Satinder , Kumar Uttam , Singh Rohtas , Dhillon Guriqbal Singh , Bhati Pradeep Kumar , Chhuneja Parveen
Published: December 2024

Wheat, a major cereal crop, is the most consumed staple food after rice in India. Frequent episodes of heat waves during the past decade have raised concerns about food security under impending global warming and necessitate the development of heat-tolerant wheat cultivars. Wild relatives of crop plants serve as untapped reservoirs of novel genetic variations. In the present study a mapping population comprising 311 BC2F10 backcross introgression lines (BILs) developed by crossing Triticum durum and heat-tolerant diploid wild wheat relative Aegilops speltoides accession pau3809 was used to map QTLs for terminal heat tolerance. The homozygous BILs were evaluated for heat stress tolerance component traits under an optimum environment (OE) and a heat-stressed environment (HE) for the two cropping seasons. Data on spike length, spikelet number per spike, peduncle length, thousand-grain weight, grains per spike, days to heading, days to maturity, grain filling duration, NDVI at heading, plant height and plot yield were recorded. Genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) of the BILs was carried out, and 2945 high-quality, polymorphic SNPs were obtained. Thirty QTLs were detected for various heat tolerance component traits on chromosomes 1A, IB, 2A, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A and 6B with phenotypic variance ranging from 5 to 11.5%. Several candidate genes reported to play a role in heat stress responses were identified by browsing the 1.85 Mb physical region flanking the stable QTLs detected under the HE. Identified QTL and linked markers can be employed for genomics-assisted breeding for heat tolerance in wheat.