bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of sedentary behavior on sleep quality in postmenopausal women in high-altitude regions of China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Leng Rilang , Guo Ailin , Qian Guoping , Mao Sujie
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study investigates the association between sedentary behavior and sleep quality among postmenopausal women residing in China’s plateau regions. Particular attention is given to moderating effects of age, body mass index (BMI), and sleep environment. This study aims to identify modifiable risk factors influencing sleep quality in this high-altitude population.

Methods

This cross-sectional study focused on postmenopausal women (aged ≥50 years, ≥12 months post-menopause) across four primary plateau regions in China: Qinghai-Tibet, Yunnan-Guizhou, Inner Mongolia, and the Loess Plateau. Sedentary behavior was evaluated with the Older Adults Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire, and sleep quality was assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Data analysis encompassed descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, multiple linear regression, and subgroup analyses.

Results

Among the 151 participants (mean age 58.5 years), sedentary behavior was positively correlated with poorer sleep quality (r = 0.36, p < 0.001). Improvements in the sleep environment were similarly associated with better sleep quality (r = 0.29, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression identified sedentary behavior and sleep environment as significant predictors of sleep quality, while other variables showed no significant associations. Subgroup analysis revealed age-specific effects: sedentary behavior had a strong influence on sleep quality in women under 60 years (r = 0.36, p < 0.01) but demonstrated a weaker, non-significant association in those aged 60 years or older (p = 0.062).

Conclusion

Prolonged sedentary behavior is an independent risk factor for reduced sleep quality among postmenopausal women residing in high-altitude regions, while improvements in the sleep environment are positively associated with better sleep quality. The influence of sedentary behavior on sleep quality varies by age groups. These findings highlight the importance of tailored interventions and health policies to improving sleep quality in postmenopausal women living at high altitudes.
Cognitive component of auditory attention to natural speech events
Authors: Nguyen Nhan Duc Thanh , Mikkelsen Kaare , Kidmose Preben
Published: January 2025

The recent progress in auditory attention decoding (AAD) methods is based on algorithms that find a relation between the audio envelope and the neurophysiological response. The most popular approach is based on the reconstruction of the audio envelope from electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. These methods are primarily based on the exogenous response driven by the physical characteristics of the stimuli. In this study, we specifically investigate higher-level cognitive responses influenced by auditory attention to natural speech events. We designed a series of four experimental paradigms with increasing levels of realism: a word category oddball paradigm, a word category oddball paradigm with competing speakers, and competing speech streams with and without specific targets. We recorded EEG data using 32 scalp electrodes, as well as 12 in-ear electrodes (ear-EEG) from 24 participants. By using natural speech events and cognitive tasks, a cognitive event-related potential (ERP) component, which we believe is related to the well-known P3b component, was observed at parietal electrode sites with a latency of ~625 ms. Importantly, the component decreases in strength but is still significantly observable in increasingly realistic paradigms of multi-talker environments. We also show that the component can be observed in the in-ear EEG signals by using spatial filtering. We believe that the P3b-like cognitive component modulated by auditory attention can contribute to improving auditory attention decoding from electrophysiological recordings.
The potential impact of exercise on affect and neuroinflammation in older adults living with fibromyalgia: a scoping review
Authors: Taylor Taylor L. , Dodds Fitzgerald , Tharpe McKenna , Zumbro Emily L. , Hankes Michael , Jones Raymond , Rumble Deanna , Antoine Lisa , Allen-Watts Kristen , Sims Andrew , Chandra Reshu , Goodin Burel R. , Younger Jarred , Buford Thomas W.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a widespread chronic pain condition with prevalence increasing in older adults. Older adults living with FM experience longer pain symptom durations that can negatively impact their quality of life. Affect and neuroinflammation are potential factors that can exacerbate pain symptoms. Exercise is a recommended intervention to manage pain symptoms; however, adherence limitations persist. Drawing on the Biopsychosocial Framework of Chronic Pain, this scoping review explores how exercise impacts factors related to neuroinflammation and affect, and how these factors contribute to exercise adherence in older adults living with FM.

Methods

We conducted a scoping search of articles related to exercise and older adults living with FM published before 2024. The extracted study characteristics include publication type, study design, affect outcomes, neuroinflammation outcomes, exercise type, exercise adherence, and sample demographic information.

Results

We have provided an overview of the relationship between affect and neuroinflammation in studies including older adults living with FM and highlight the impact of exercise on affect and neuroinflammation in older adults living with FM. A conceptual framework is provided illustrating the reciprocal relationship between exercise, affective changes, neuroinflammation, and exercise adherence.

Discussion

Our results suggest that exercise may improve affect, while limited evidence suggests that aerobic and resistance exercise improve neuroinflammation. Finally, implications for importance and future directions in the context of potential biological factors impacted are provided.
Long-term mindfulness meditation increases occurrence of sensory and attention brain states
Authors: Panitz Daniel Yochai , Mendelsohn Avi , Cabral Joana , Berkovich-Ohana Aviva
Published: January 2025

Interest has been growing in the use of mindfulness meditation (MM) as a therapeutic practice, as accumulating evidence highlights its potential to effectively address a range of mental conditions. While many fMRI studies focused on neural activation and functional connectivity during meditation, the impact of long-term MM practice on spontaneous brain activity, and on the expression of resting state networks over time, remains unclear. Here, intrinsic functional network dynamics were compared between experienced meditators and meditation-naïve participants during rest. Our analysis revealed that meditators tend to spend more time in two brain states that involve synchrony among cortical regions associated with sensory perception. Conversely, a brain state involving frontal areas associated with higher cognitive functions was detected less frequently in experienced meditators. These findings suggest that, by shifting attention toward enhanced sensory and embodied processing, MM effectively modulates the expression of functional network states at rest. These results support the suggested lasting effect of long-term MM on the modulation of resting-state networks, reinforcing its therapeutic potential for disorders characterized by imbalanced network dynamics. Moreover, this study reinforces the utility of analytic approaches from dynamical systems theory to extend current knowledge regarding brain activity and evaluate its response to interventions.
Baseline dependent differences in the perception of changes in visuomotor delay
Authors: Vigh Gesche , Limanowski Jakub
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The detection of, and adaptation to delayed visual movement feedback has been extensively studied. One important open question is whether the Weber-Fechner Laws hold in the domain of visuomotor delay; i.e., whether the perception of changes in visuomotor delay depends on the amount of delay already present during movement.

Methods

To address this, we developed a virtual reality based, continuous hand movement task, during which participants had to detect changes in visuomotor mapping (delay): Participants (N = 40) performed continuous, auditory-paced grasping movements, which were measured with a data glove and transmitted to a virtual hand model. The movements of the virtual hand were delayed between 0 and 700 ms with the delay changing repeatedly in a roving oddball design. Participants had to indicate any perceived delay changes by key press. This design allowed us to investigate detection accuracy and speed related to the magnitude of the delay change, and to the “baseline” delay present during movement, respectively.

Results

As expected, larger delay changes were detected more accurately than smaller ones. Surprisingly, delay changes were detected more accurately and faster when participants moved under large > small delays.

Discussion

These results suggest that visual movement feedback delay indeed affects the detection of changes in visuomotor delay, but not as predicted by the Weber-Fechner Laws. Instead, bodily action under small delays may have entailed a larger tolerance for delay changes due to embodiment-related intersensory conflict attenuation; whereas better change detection at large delays may have resulted from their (visual) saliency due to a strong violation of visuomotor predictions.
Barriers and enablers in the micronutrient powder supply chain: lessons from a process evaluation of a home fortification programme in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Md. Fakhar , Islam Md. Aminul , Rahman Mahfuzur , Ahmed Tahmeed , Sarma Haribondhu
Published: January 2025

Background

Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC), a leading non-governmental organization (NGO), implemented a large-scale Home Fortification (HF) with Micronutrient Powder (MNP) programme from 2013 to 2018 aimed to reduce undernutrition and iron deficiency anemia among children aged below 5 years old. An adequate and timely supply of MNP was crucial for successful implementation of the programme, but very few studies have documented implementers’ MNP supply chain experiences. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the barriers and enablers in the MNP supply chain in Bangladesh.

Methods

We conducted this process evaluation in five rural sub-districts and three urban slums from March 2016 to February 2017. We conducted 15 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with HF programme personnel, 41 In-depth Interviews (IDIs) with direct HF programme implementers and reviewed relevant documents. We analyzed data using thematic and root-cause analysis approaches.

Results

Participants reported the barriers in the MNP supply chain included lack of raw materials for MNP production by local manufacturer, political unrest and insufficient transport facilities, a lack of space for MNP buffer stock at BRAC’s central warehouse, and coordination gaps between BRAC’s national and sub-national level staff. Enablers to each of the barriers mentioned include ensuring buffer stock at all levels, raising separate transport requisition for MNP supply, and recruiting dedicated supply chain officers.

Conclusion

Concurrent course-corrections based on process evaluation findings improved MNP supply chain performance, resulting in higher MNP sales and coverage. The identified barriers and enablers provide useful insights for similar programs, emphasizing the importance of a resilient and well-managed MNP supply chain.
Association between the healthy eating index 2020 and heart failure among the U.S. middle-aged and older adults from NHANES 2005–2020: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gu Fangfang , Yu Weiwei , Shu Tian , Zhu Yingwei
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to shed light on the correlation between Healthy Eating Index-2020 (HEI-2020) and heart failure (HF) in American adults aged 50 or above.

Methods

Data were from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2020, encompassing 13,105 participants with an age of 50 or above. HEI-2020 score was utilized for rating the dietary quality. The link of HEI-2020 to HF was assessed via logistic regression, restricted cubic splines (RCS), generalized additive models (GAM), weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, as well as quantile g-computation (Qgcomp) models.

Results

A negative association between HEI-2020 and HF risk was uncovered in middle-aged and older Americans (OR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98–1.00, p = 0.006). The highest quartile (Q4) exhibited a markedly lower HF risk than the lowest quartile (Q1) (OR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.55–0.89, p = 0.004). RCS and GAM analyses demonstrated a linear dose–response relationship between HEI-2020 and HF. Finally, WQS regression and Qgcomp models revealed a beneficial combined influence of 13 dietary components on HF risk, with dairy and whole fruits emerging as the most influential.

Conclusion

Elevated HEI-2020 scores are linked to decreased HF risks among Americans aged 50 or above, suggesting that adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans can mitigate HF risk.
Association between serum carotenoids levels and severe headache or migraine in adults: a cross-sectional study from NHANES
Authors: Hu Tian , Chen Yufei , Chen Siyu , Xue Rui
Published: January 2025

Background

Carotenoids are well-established for their potent antioxidant properties; however, their potential association with severe headaches or migraines remains largely unexamined. This study was conducted to explore the relationship between serum carotenoid levels and the prevalence of severe headaches or migraines within the US population.

Methods

We utilized data from the 2001–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which comprised a total of 8,910 participants. Serum carotenoid levels—specifically α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene—were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. Migraine status was determined based on a questionnaire. The research methodologies employed included multivariate logistic regression, subgroup analysis, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models.

Results

The prevalence of migraines in the study population was 22.37%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that serum concentrations of α-carotene (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.85–0.97), β-carotene (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.81–0.94), β-cryptoxanthin (OR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.76–0.90), lutein/zeaxanthin (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.67–0.85), and total carotenoids (OR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.70–0.90) were significantly inversely correlated with severe headaches or migraines; however, no significant association was found for lycopene levels. RCS analysis showed that β-cryptoxanthin had an L-shaped non-linear relationship with migraine prevalence at a threshold of approximately 9.392 μg/dL, while subgroup analyses confirmed the consistent inverse association between total serum carotenoid concentrations and migraine prevalence across various groups.

Conclusion

Serum concentrations of α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and total serum carotenoids were inversely correlated with the incidence of severe headaches or migraines in US adults. This evidence indicates that carotenoids may provide a protective effect against migraines; however, further investigation is warranted to substantiate these associations and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Application of dynamic enhanced scanning with GD-EOB-DTPA MRI based on deep learning algorithm for lesion diagnosis in liver cancer patients
Authors: Liu Bo , Yang Jinhua , Wu Yifei , Chen Xi , Wu Xueru
Published: January 2025

Background

Improvements in the clinical diagnostic use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the identification of liver disorders have been made possible by gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA). Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology is in high demand.

Objectives

The purpose of the study is to segment the liver using an enhanced multi-gradient deep convolution neural network (EMGDCNN) and to identify and categorize a localized liver lesion using a Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI.

Methods

We provided the classifier images of the liver in five states (unenhanced, arterial, portal venous, equilibrium, and hepatobiliary) and labeled them with localized liver diseases (hepatocellular carcinoma, metastasis, hemangiomas, cysts, and scarring). The Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center ethics committee recruited 132 participants between August 2021 and February 2022. Fisher’s exact test analyses liver lesion Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI data.

Results

Our method could identify and classify liver lesions at the same time. On average, 25 false positives and 0.6 real positives were found in the test instances. The percentage of correct answers was 0.790. AUC, sensitivity, and specificity evaluate the procedure. Our technique outperforms others in extensive testing.

Conclusion

EMGDCNN may identify and categorize a localized hepatic lesion in Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI. We found that one network can detect and classify. Radiologists need higher detection capability.
Loss of SMAD1 in acute myeloid leukemia with KMT2A::AFF1 and KMT2A::MLLT3 fusion genes
Authors: Dietsche Lisa , Stirm Kristin , Lysenko Veronika , Schneidawind Corina , Tzankov Alexandar , Müller Anne , Theocharides Alexandre P. A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

KMT2A-rearrangements define a subclass of acute leukemias characterized by a distinct gene expression signature linked to the dysfunctional oncogenic fusion proteins arising from various chromosomal translocations involving the KMT2A (also known as MLL1) gene. Research on the disease pathomechanism in KMT2A-rearranged acute leukemias has mainly focused on the upregulation of the stemness-related genes of the HOX-family and their co-factor MEIS1.

Results

Here we report the KMT2A::AFF1 and KMT2A::MLLT3 fusion gene-dependent downregulation of SMAD1, a TGF-β signaling axis transcription factor. SMAD1 expression is lost in the majority of AML patient samples and cell lines containing the two fusion genes KMT2A::AFF1 and KMT2A::MLLT3 compared to non-rearranged controls. Loss of SMAD1 expression is inducible by introducing the respective two KMT2A fusion genes into hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. The loss of SMAD1 correlated with a markedly reduced amount of H3K4me3 levels at the SMAD1 promoter in tested cells with KMT2A::AFF1 and KMT2A::MLLT3. The expression of SMAD1 in cells with KMT2A::AFF1 fusion genes impacted the growth of cells in vitro and influenced engraftment of the KMT2A::AFF1 cell line MV4-11 in vivo. In MV4-11 cells SMAD1 expression caused a downregulation of HOXA9 and MEIS1, which was reinforced by TGF-β stimulation. Moreover, in MV4-11 cells SMAD1 presence sensitized cells for TGF-β mediated G1-arrest.

Conclusion

Overall, our data contributes to the understanding of the role of TGF-β signaling in acute myeloid leukemia with KMT2A::AFF1 by showing that SMAD1 loss can influence the growth dynamics and contribute to the pathogenic expression of disease driving factors.
Genomic, transcriptomic, and T cell receptor profiling in stratifying response to first-line chemoradiotherapy or radiotherapy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Xiaqin , Lian Jianhong , Chen Fukun , Wang Kai , Xue Haoyuan , Jia Sufang , Wang Weili , Li Zhongkang , Liang Hua , Li Hongwei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) accounts for 80% of esophageal cancer (EC) worldwide. The molecular characteristics of locally advanced ESCC have been extensively studied.

Methods

In this study, we investigate the genomic and transcriptomic characteristics and try to provide the basic T-cell receptors (TCRs) dynamics and its genomic and transcriptome association during the radiochemotherapy of ESCC using multi-omics analysis.

Results

A total of 23 patients with pathologic diagnoses of locally advanced ESCC were enrolled. The median tumor mutational burden (TMB) of the 23 ESCC patients were 3.47 mutations/ Mb (mega-base). The TP53, RTK/RAS, and NOTCH pathways were concurrently prevalent in ESCC. Besides, some less prevalent pathways, including WNT and HIPPO pathways also exhibited superior frequencies in ESCC. Meantime, we found the immune-hot tumor had higher immune infiltration scores. The median TMB in the progression-free survival (PFS) low group was significantly higher than that in the PFS-high group. The chromosomal copy number variation (CNV) burden of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR)-high group appeared to be higher than that of the NLR-low group, and the StromalScore in the NLR-low group was significantly higher. Clonality score was significantly increased from pre-treat to post-treat and from on-treat to post-treat. Shannon index was significantly decreased from pre-treat to post-treat and from on-treat to posttreat. Richness was significantly decreased from pre-treat to post-treat.

Discussion

Multiomics analysis provided the basic TCRs dynamics and their genomic and transcriptome association during the radio-chemotherapy of 23 locally advanced ESCC in China, and provided a valuable insights into the heterogeneity and the tumor microenvironment and treatment responses. Meantimes, the identification of biomarkers and the exploration of their association with treatment outcomes could have important implications for clinical practice.
Early recurrence after surgery in FIGO 2023 stage I-III endometrial cancer: characteristics and risk factors
Authors: Huang Zhen , Li Xue , Li Ling
Published: January 2025

Background

Understanding the risk factors for early recurrence is crucial for improving endometrial cancer (EC) patient outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinicopathological data from 473 patients diagnosed with EC at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between October 2013 and May 2019. We evaluated factors influencing early recurrence(defined as occurring within 12 months after treatment) based on 2023 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system.

Results

Among the 473 patients, 284 (60.1%) were diagnosed with stage I, 117 (24.7%) with stage II, and 72 (15.2%) with stage III. A total of 343 patients (72.5%) had non-aggressive EC, while 130 patients (27.5%) had aggressive EC. Our findings identified higher FIGO stage, lymphovascular space invasion, estrogen receptor negativity, and abnormal P53 expression as significant independent risk factors for early recurrence. Of the 473 patients, 83 (17.6%) experienced recurrence, with 44 patients (53.0%) relapsing within 12 months post-treatment. Patients with early recurrence had significantly worse prognoses compared to those with late recurrence or no recurrence(P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The identification of these risk factors is essential for developing individualized treatment plans and postoperative management strategies. Our study highlights the need for targeted therapies and intensified follow-up for high-risk patients to improve outcomes in endometrial cancer.
Exploration of ANKRD27 as an immune-related prognostic factor in pan-cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Shen Ningzhe , Fan Congcong , Ying Haosun , Li Xinmiao , Zhang Weizhi , Yu Jinglu , Zheng Jianjian , Li Yifei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Ankyrin repeat domain 27 (ANKRD27) has been found to be associated with certain cancers. However, its clinical potential in pan-cancer remains unclear.

Methods

Public datasets (TCGA and GTEx) were applied to analyze ANKRD27 expression in multiple cancer types and its correlations with immune scores, immune checkpoint genes, and immune modulatory genes. We also examined ANKRD27 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients using TCGA and GSE14520 datasets. The upregulation of ANKRD27 was verified via qRT-PCR in vitro. Based on TCGA-HCC, external, and GSE14520 cohorts, the associations between ANKRD27 expression and survival outcome were explored via the Kaplan-Meier survival curve. The effects of ANKRD27 reduction on HCC cell growth, movement, and invasion were evaluated by CCK-8, Wound healing, and Transwell assays.

Results

ANKRD27 exhibited aberrant expression in multiple cancers and was correlated with immune traits, including immune infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, and immune modulatory genes. Elevated expression of ANKRD27 was found in TCGA-HCC and GSE14520 cohorts and was confirmed in HCC cell lines. HCC patients with high ANKRD27 expression had poorer prognosis. In vitro, reducing ANKRD27 decreased the capability of proliferation, migration, and invasion in HCC cells. High ANKRD27 expression was associated with sensitivity to certain drugs.

Conclusion

ANKRD27 displays abnormal levels of expression in different cancer types and is linked to immune status in cancer. Furthermore, ANKRD27 may serve as a prognostic predictor for HCC.
Characterization of diffuse lung function in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Wang Li , Li Qianqian , Hu Jie , Luo Ronghua , Duan Yaping , Ai Tao
Published: January 2025

Background

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection accounts for a high proportion of community-acquired pneumonia and the incidence rate of severe M. pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) has increased year by year. This study investigated the changes in lung diffusion function after M. pneumoniae infection, compared the lung diffusion and ventilation function of children with mild (MMPP) or severe M. pneumoniae pneumonia (SMPP) infections, and explored their clinical significance.

Objective

To study the changes in pulmonary ventilation and pulmonary diffusion function in children with MPP, and explore their clinical significance.

Methods

Data from 97 children with M. pneumoniae pneumonia hospitalized in Chengdu Women and Children's Central Hospital from June 2023 to December 2023 were collected and the participants were divided into an MMPP group (n = 44) and an SMPP group (n = 53). The changes in pulmonary ventilation function and diffusion function were compared between the two groups.

Results

The Z-scores of forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in the first second in the SMPP and MMPP groups were −1.684 ± 0.902 and −1.986 ± 0.818, and 0.164 ± 1.795 and −0.6104 ± 1.276, respectively. In the SMPP group, the two aforementioned indicators were lower than the normal value and significantly lower than those in the MMPP group (P < 0.001). The carbon monoxide diffusion capacity in the SMPP group (−5.931 ± 0.827) was significantly lower than that in the MMPP group (−5.0775 ± 1.1134) (P < 0.001). The forced expiratory flow at 75% vital capacity and the maximum mid expiratory flow in the SMPP group were −2.006 ± 1.2582 and −1.878 ± 1.008, respectively, which were lower than the normal value.

Conclusion

SMPP results in more severe ventilation dysfunction and diffuse dysfunction than MMPP.
Early Recognition and Intervention in SIBlingS at High Risk for Neurodevelopment Disorders (ERI-SIBS): a controlled trial of an innovative and ecological intervention for siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Annunziata Silvia , Purpura Giulia , Piazza Elena , Meriggi Paolo , Fassina Gabriele , Santos Laura , Ambrosini Emilia , Marchetti Antonella , Manzi Federico , Massaro Davide , Tacci Andrea Luna , Bolognesi Elisabetta , Agostini Simone , La Rosa Francesca , Pedrocchi Alessandra Paola Giulia , Molina Paola , Cavallini Anna
Published: January 2025

Background

It has been widely demonstrated that siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have an increased risk of abnormal developmental trajectories. In response to this, early recognition protocols have been developed worldwide, aiming to promote early interventions that can positively impact the neurodevelopment of this population. This paper presents the protocol of a controlled trial: ERI-SIBS (Early Recognition and Intervention in SIBlingS at High Risk for Neurodevelopment Disorders) is an innovative and ecological early recognition and intervention program designed specifically for siblings of children with ASD.

Methods

We aim to recruit siblings at low risk and high risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. Based on clinical evaluation at T0, we will allocate the infants into three groups: Group 1, infants at low risk without any signs of neurodevelopmental disorders; Group 2, infants at high risk without any signs of neurodevelopmental disorders; Group 3: infants at low or high risk with signs suggestive of neurodevelopmental disorders. Children of Group 2 will undergo Active Monitoring (one 90 min session once a month for 6 months), while children of Group 3 will undergo Early Intervention (one 90 min session once a week for 6 months). In both cases, the ERI-SIBS contents are based on a multidimensional and naturalistic approach and always involve caregivers. All recruited children will be evaluated at three different time points (T0 within the 8 months of life of the child, T1 after 6 months and T2 after 12 months) using behavioural, technological, and biological techniques to assess infants’ neurodevelopmental functions, parent-infant interaction, and early ASD markers.

Discussion

The ERI-SIBS study will expand knowledge regarding the impact of early intervention on families of infants at risk of neurodevelopmental disorders for the presence of a child with a diagnosis of ASD. The study will have the potential to significantly contribute to future research and the scientific and clinical debate on the best way to implement early intervention in at-risk populations.

Clinical Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier (NCT06512649).
Exploring the experiences of children's palliative care for forced migrant families in the United Kingdom: an interpretative phenomenological study
Authors: Clancy Marie , Bradbury-Jones Caroline , Phillimore Jenny , Taylor Julie
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study focused on understanding the experiences of forced migrant families and the health care professionals who care for them within palliative care. Palliative care for children requires an active, holistic approach to care, with a focus upon improving quality of life. Forced migrant families encounter a range of additional challenges including the loss of family, belongings, and all sources of familiarity and support. The difficulties of navigating complex bureaucratic systems can confound access and communication difficulties.

Methods

Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis methodology was used in this study to privilege participant perspectives and apply an active in-depth cyclical process of reflection and reflexivity. Advisory group members provided expertise in childhood illness, palliative care and forced migration, throughout the study. The Silences Framework offered novel theoretical and philosophical concepts, which helped to situate and prioritise the “silences” within the marginalised discourses of forced migration and palliative care. Seven family members and seven health care professional participants were interviewed from hospital, hospice and community palliative care settings in the UK.

Results

Four overarching themes were identified related to experiences of loss and grief, communication, faith and coping strategies and alienation and discrimination. Compassionate, empathetic, family-centred care which valued family belief systems and coping strategies, optimised care. Learning with and from families was described by all participants, which enhanced understanding and fostered mutual respect. However, barriers included poor access to services and resources, protocol-led care, limited time with families, communication barriers and staff burnout.

Discussion

The findings suggest the need for a specific educational pathway for palliative care professionals to include spiritual care provision, cultural humility, and moral reasoning. Interdisciplinary education including the use of lived-experience expert insights is also advocated. Sufficient time to build relationships, the importance of interpreter support and the need for better access to hospice care for forced migrant families is also recommended.
Study on the sedative effect and safety of oral midazolam combined with dexmedetomidine nasal drops in children during magnetic resonance imaging examination
Authors: Li Yuancui , Lei Rongzhu
Published: January 2025

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a crucial non-invasive diagnostic tool for pediatric diseases, requiring patients to remain still, often with the use of sedatives. Midazolam and dexmedetomidine are commonly used for sedation in children, but their combined effect needs further study. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of combining intranasal dexmedetomidine (ID) with oral midazolam (OM) in children undergoing MRI, and assess its clinical feasibility.

Methods

A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 196 pediatric patients undergoing MRI from January 2022 to December 2023. Patients were randomly assigned to a control group (OM alone) or an observation group (OM + ID), with 98 cases each. Total sedation time, wake-up time, onset time, and adverse reactions were evaluated. Sedation effectiveness was assessed using the Ramsay Sedation Score.

Results

The observation group had significantly longer total sedation time (P = 0.039) and higher one-time sedation success rate (P = 0.038) compared to the control group. The Ramsay score indicated better sedation effects in the observation group (P < 0.05). Adverse events were similar between groups and resolved with rest.

Conclusion

Combining ID with OM provides effective sedation for pediatric MRI, with an acceptable safety profile, supporting its use in clinical practice.
The pharmacodynamic modulation effect of oxytocin on resting state functional connectivity network topology
Authors: Hagan Abraham Tonny , Xu Lei , Klugah-Brown Benjamin , Li Jialin , Jiang Xi , Kendrick Keith M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Neuroimaging studies have demonstrated that intranasal oxytocin has extensive effects on the resting state functional connectivity of social and emotional processing networks and may have therapeutic potential. However, the extent to which intranasal oxytocin modulates functional connectivity network topology remains less explored, with inconsistent findings in the existing literature. To address this gap, we conducted an exploratory data-driven study.

Methods

We recruited 142 healthy males and administered 24 IU of intranasal oxytocin or placebo in a randomized controlled double-blind design. Resting-state functional MRI data were acquired for each subject. Network-based statistical analysis and graph theoretical approaches were employed to evaluate oxytocin’s effects on whole-brain functional connectivity and graph topological measures.

Results

Our results revealed that oxytocin altered connectivity patterns within brain networks involved in sensory and motor processing, attention, memory, emotion and reward functions as well as social cognition, including the default mode, limbic, frontoparietal, cerebellar, and visual networks. Furthermore, oxytocin increased local efficiency, clustering coefficients, and small-world propensity in specific brain regions including the cerebellum, left thalamus, posterior cingulate cortex, right orbitofrontal cortex, right superior frontal gyrus, left inferior frontal gyrus, and right middle orbitofrontal cortex, while decreasing nodal path topological measures in the left and right caudate.

Discussion

These findings suggest that intranasal oxytocin may produce its functional effects through influencing the integration and segregation of information flow within small-world brain networks, particularly in regions closely associated with social cognition and motivation.
Administration of anticoagulation strategies for portal vein thrombosis in cirrhosis: network meta-analysis
Authors: Li Hui-Jun , Yin Fu-Qiang , Ma Yu-Tong , Gao Teng-Yu , Tao Yu-Ting , Liu Xin , Shen Xian-Feng , Zhang Chao
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Evidences for anticoagulation strategies in cirrhotic with portal vein thrombosis (PVT) are still insufficient. This study aims to comprehensively compare the therapeutic effects of different therapeutic therapeutic measures in individuals suffering from cirrhosis with PVT, with the ultimate goal of providing evidence-based recommendations for thrombolytic therapy in this population.

Methods

Starting from 20 October 2023, a comprehensive search about therapeutic strategies for portal vein thrombosis in cirrhosis was conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library.

Results

19 studies were eventually incorporated into this study. Comparison with control in network meta-analysis, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) (RR = 2.15, 95%CI: 1.33, 3.48), LMWH (RR = 1.41, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.99), TIPS (RR = 5.68, 95%CI: 2.63, 12.24), warfarin (RR = 2.16, 95%CI: 1.46, 3.21), EBL plus propranolol (RR = 2.80, 95%CI: 1.18, 6.60), LMWH-DOACs sequential (RR = 7.92, 95%CI: 2.85, 21.99) and LMWH-warfarin sequential (RR = 2.26, 95%CI: 1.16, 4.42) significantly improved the incidence of complete recanalization. The anticoagulation drugs were ranked based on their SUCRA values, with the LMWH-DOACs sequential (92.7%), TIPS plus warfarin (91.3%), and TIPS (80.3%) emerging as the top three effective treatments.

Conclusion

In this study, active anticoagulants were recommended for cirrhosis with PVT. The TIPS plus warfarin, LMWH-DOACs sequential, and TIPS improved the complete recanalization rate most effectively, and the EBL plus propranolol, heparin plus DOACs plus warfarin, and DOACs were highly recommended for increasing the incidence of partial recanalization. Warfarin and TIPS were recommended for reducing the frequency of bleeding events, while LMWH plus warfarin and DOACs proved to be most effective in decreasing the rate of major bleeding events. Warfarin, heparin plus DOACs plus warfarin, and DOACs demonstrated the most significant reduction in mortality rates, highlighting its potential as an effective intervention. TIPS plus warfarin, LMWH-DOACs sequential, and TIPS were recommended for reducing the occurrence of PVT expansion. Heparin plus DOACs plus warfarin was recommended for reducing the occurrence of hepatic encephalopathy, and protocols that involve TIPS were generally associated with a higher risk of hepatic encephalopathy. However, a longer follow-up period is necessary to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy of active anticoagulants therapy in patients with PVT in cirrhosis.
Protective effects of small RNAs encapsulated in Artemisia Capillaris-derived exosomes against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Xu Min , Ma Longjun , Liang Hongwei , Tang Wei , Gu Shouyong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Artemisia capillaris, a traditional medicinal plant, is renowned for its therapeutic properties, including the promotion of anti-inflammatory and bile secretion. Notably, it has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of jaundice. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Artemisia capillaris-derived exosomes (ACDEs) as a novel therapeutic approach in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

The physicochemical properties of ACDEs were isolated and characterized using differential centrifugation, and the therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in an in vivo methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet induced NAFLD mouse model. In vitro, mouse hepatocytes were treated with palmitic acid (PA) to simulate a high fat environment. Intracellular triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels were quantified, and Oil Red O staining was assessed. Additionally, the expression levels of proteins and RNAs associated with lipogenesis and inflammation were analyzed.

Results

The NAFLD mouse model exhibited notable liver damage, including lipid deposition and inflammatory responses. However, treatment with ACDEs exhibited broad pharmacological activities, effectively reversing hepatic lipid accumulation and inflammatory damage. In vitro experiments revealed that ACDEs were internalized by AML12 cells via macropinocytosis and caveolin-mediated endocytosis. This treatment ameliorated dysregulated lipid metabolism and inhibited inflammatory responses. High throughput sequencing further identified a distinct small RNA profile in ACDEs, indicating the potential involvement in interspecies physiological regulation.

Discussion

In conclusion, this study provides evidence for the therapeutic potential of ACDEs in NAFLD and offers a novel perspective for the development of Artemisia capillaris-based therapies for NAFLD, related metabolic disorders, and hepatitis.
Bergenin, a bioactive flavonoid: advancements in the prospects of anticancer mechanism, pharmacokinetics and nanoformulations
Authors: Pandey Pratibha , Lakhanpal Sorabh , Mahmood Danish , Kang Han Na , Kim Byunggyu , Kang Sojin , Choi Jinwon , Moon Seungjoon , Pandey Shivam , Ballal Suhas , Kumar Sanjay , Khan Fahad , Kim Bonglee
Published: January 2025

The natural world is a vast reservoir of exceptionally varied and inventive chemical compositions. Natural products are used as initial compounds to create combinatorial libraries by targeted modifications and then by analyzing their structure-activity connections. This stage is regarded as a crucial milestone in drug discovery and development. Bergenin, a naturally occurring secondary metabolite, has been extracted from several plant components. It is a constituent found in herbal and Ayurvedic preparations. It demonstrates antiviral, antifungal, antitussive, antiplasmodial, anti-inflammatory, antihepatotoxic, antiarrhythmic, antitumor, antiulcerogenic, antidiabetic, and wound healing activities. Bergenin efficiently inhibited the proliferation of human cancer cells by stimulating the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing DNA damage and leading to cell cycle arrest in the G1/G2 phases by blocking cell signaling pathways. More comprehensive reviews are needed on the anticancer properties of bergenin. Therefore, our review aimed to update the multifaceted benefits of bergenin to the future scientists and researchers, which can be leveraged to formulate safer and novel cancer therapies, while also establishing a robust framework for future investigations into bergenin in cancer treatment. More preclinical and clinical investigations are needed to validate the candidature of bergenin as a potent anticancer agent.
An updated review summarizing the anticancer potential of flavonoids via targeting NF-kB pathway
Authors: Pandey Pratibha , Lakhanpal Sorabh , Mahmood Danish , Kang Han Na , Kim Byunggyu , Kang Sojin , Choi Jinwon , Choi Min , Pandey Shivam , Bhat Mahakshit , Sharma Shilpa , Khan Fahad , Park Moon Nyeo , Kim Bonglee
Published: January 2025

Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) cell signaling pathway is essential for the progression and development of numerous human disorders, including cancer. NF-κB signaling pathway regulates a wide range of physiological processes, such as cell survival, growth, and migration. Deregulated NF-kB signaling resulted in unregulated cell proliferation, viability, movement, and invasion, thus promoting tumor development. Recent findings have increasingly shown that plant derived phytochemicals that inhibit NF-κB signaling have the potential to be employed in cancer therapeutics. Flavonoids are a group of polyphenolic natural compounds present in various plants and their fruits, vegetables, and leaves. These compounds have numerous medicinal properties owing to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antitumor characteristics. The main mechanism by which these flavonoids exhibit their anticancer potential is via potent antioxidative and immunomodulatory actions. Current research reports have demonstrated that these flavonoids exhibited their anticancer effects via suppressing the NF-κB signaling. Based on these facts, we have comprehensively outlined the cancer promoting role of NF-κB pathway in various processes including tumor progression, drug resistance, angiogenesis and metastasis. In addition to these, we also summarize the anticancer potential of flavonoids by specifically targeting the NF-κB pathway in various types of cancers.
Clinical significance of lipid pathway-targeted therapy in breast cancer
Authors: Li Dan , Jin Pengcheng , Cai Yiqi , Wu Shijie , Guo Xianan , Zhang Zhiyun , Liu Kexin , Li Panni , Hu Yue , Zhou Yunxiang
Published: January 2025

Globally, breast cancer represents the most common cancer and the primary cause of death by cancer in women. Lipids are crucial in human physiology, serving as vital energy reserves, structural elements of biological membranes, and essential signaling molecules. The metabolic reprogramming of lipid pathways has emerged as a critical factor in breast cancer progression, drug resistance, and patient prognosis. In this study, we delve into the clinical implications of lipid pathway-targeted therapy in breast cancer. We highlight key enzymes and potential therapeutic targets involved in lipid metabolism reprogramming, and their associations with cancer progression and treatment outcomes. Furthermore, we detail the clinical trials exploring the anticancer and cancer chemopreventive activity of therapies targeting these molecules. However, the clinical efficacy of these therapies remains controversial, highlighting the urgent need for predictive biomarkers to identify patient subpopulations likely to benefit from such treatment. We propose the Selective Lipid Metabolism Therapy Benefit Hypothesis, emphasizing the importance of personalized medicine in optimizing lipid pathway-targeted therapy for breast cancer patients.
CPT1 deficiency blocks autophagic flux to promote lipid accumulation induced by co-exposure to polystyrene microplastic and cadmium
Authors: Chen Zhixuan , Qu Huayi , Sun Jian , Wang Tao , Yuan Yan , Gu Jianhong , Bian Jianchun , Liu Zongping , Zou Hui
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Cadmium (Cd) and polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs), two ubiquitous environmental contaminants, produce unique synergistic toxicity when co-existing. Key unanswered questions include specific effects on liver function and potential mechanisms.

Methods

In this study, C57BL/6 mice and AML12 cells were used to establish in vivo and in vitro models to elucidate the effects of combined exposure to PS-MPs and Cd on the liver and their mechanisms.

Results

The results showed that the combined effects of PS-MPs and Cd caused significantly more liver damage than exposure alone. As observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the number of autophagosomes was significantly increased in the PS-MPs and Cd co-treated group. In addition, autophagic flux was assayed by RFP-GFP-LC3, a reporter system expressing dual fluorescent proteins, which showed an overwhelming enhancement of autophagic flux damage by co-exposure to PS-MPs and Cd compared to exposure alone. To further investigate the involvement of carnitine palmitoyltransferase1(CPT1) in liver injury induced by co-exposure to Cd and PS-MPs, we co-exposed Baicalin, an activator of CPT1, with PS-MPs and Cd, and showed that activation of CPT1 alleviated the impairment of autophagic fluxes induced by co-exposure of Cd and PS-MPs and further alleviated the changes in lipid accumulation and associated protein levels.

Discussion

In conclusion, the concurrent exposure of PS-MPs and Cd resulted in the blockage of hepatic lipid accumulation and autophagic pathway and further aggravated the toxic damage to the liver. Activation of CPT1 could alleviate the PS-MPs and Cd-induced lipid accumulation and autophagy pathway blockage thus reducing liver injury.