bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the effects of dietary methionine supplementation on European seabass mucosal immune responses against Tenacibaculum maritimum
Authors: Carvalho Inês , Peixoto Diogo , Ferreira Inês , Robledo Diego , Ramos-Pinto Lourenço , Silva Rodolfo Miguel , Gonçalves José Fernando , Machado Marina , Tafalla Carolina , Costas Benjamin 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionDietary methionine supplementation has been shown to enhance immunity and disease resistance in fish. However, excessive intake may lead to adverse effects. The present study aimed to evaluate the immune status of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) fed increasing levels of dietary methionine supplementation and to investigate the early immune response to Tenacibaculum maritimum.MethodsFor this purpose, juvenile European seabass were fed one of three experimental diets containing methionine at 8.6 mg/g (CTRL), 18.5 mg/g (MET2), and 29.2 mg/g (MET3) for four weeks, followed by a bath challenge with T. maritimum.ResultsWhile higher methionine intake reduced hemoglobin levels, no other significant changes in the immune status were observed. However, after infection, fish fed higher methionine levels exhibited a dose-dependent decrease in the mRNA expression of some proinflammatory genes. Similarly, RNA sequencing analysis of skin tissue revealed an attenuated immune response in the MET2 group at 24 hours post-infection, with few proinflammatory genes upregulated, which intensified at 48 h, potentially due to advanced tissue colonization by T. maritimum. The MET3 group displayed the least pronounced immune response, along with the enrichment of some immune-related pathways among the downregulated transcripts. These findings, together with the lower mRNA expression of proinflammatory genes in the head kidney and the higher mortality rates observed in this group, suggest a potential impairment of the immune response.`DiscussionOverall, these findings indicate that dietary methionine supplementation may significantly influence both systemic and local immune responses in European seabass, highlighting the need for careful consideration when supplementing diets with methionine.
Identification of circulating Tfh/Th subsets as a biomarker of developed hospital-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Peng Yuan , Tao Tao , Yu Ni-Wen , Xu Chenyang , Chen Cheng 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundThis study aimed to explore the possible value of follicular helper T (Tfh) cells in hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP).MethodsFlow cytometry was used to measure circulating Tfh and helper T cell (Th) cells in 62 HAP patients and 16 healthy individuals. HAP patients were further categorized into uncontrolled and controlled groups, in accordance with relevant guidelines. Subgroup analyses were additionally conducted based on the pathogen and the presence of bloodstream infections (BSIs) and the incidence of septic shock. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and ROC analysis were performed to estimate the prognostic value of the combination of Tfh/Th ratios and PCT levels.ResultsThe Tfh/Th ratio was notably higher in uncontrolled HAP patients than in controls (P&lt;0.05). Specifically, either the Klebsiella pneumoniae (K.p) -positive HAP or BSIs subgroups or septic shock subgroups showed significantly increased Tfh/Th ratios (P&lt;0.05). PCT level in BSIs and septic shock subgroups was significantly increased. However, there were no significant differences in PCT level between K.p-infected and non-K.p-infected patients. So, the Tfh/Th ratio is a good supplement to PCT for distinguishing between the K.p and non-K.p groups. The Tfh/Th ratio also demonstrated a strong correlation with procalcitonin (PCT) levels (P&lt;0.05). Accordingly, the combination of Tfh/Th and PCT could serve as a more effective predictive marker for HAP deterioration and survival prediction. HAP patients with a high Tfh/Th ratio along with high PCT levels had a lower 28-day survival rate.ConclusionThe circulating Tfh/Th ratio, instrumental in gauging the severity of patients with HAP, could be employed as a prognostic biomarker for HAP.
Bifidobacterium animalis BD400 protects from collagen-induced arthritis through histidine metabolism
Authors: Yang Yang , Hong Qing , Zhang Xuehong , Liu Zhenmin 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common chronic and systemic autoimmune disease. Numerous clinical studies have indicated a correlation between alterations in gut microbiota and the onset and progression of RA. This research aims to restore intestinal microbiota to a healthy state through the oral administration of Bifidobacterium in the early stages with the goal of delaying the onset and progression of RA.MethodsCollagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was constructed to assess the development of RA using arthritis clinical scores, paw thickness, pathological analysis of knee joint. The immune response was evaluated by determinating specific antibodies and cytokines in serum and synovial fluid. The expression of intestinal barrier protein was analyzed by qPCR to evaluate the intestinal barrier function. Alterations in gut microbiota and metabolites were assessed by 16S rDNA and non-targeted metabolomics.ResultsThe findings reveal that administering Bifidobacterium animalis BD400 orally led to a significant reduction in arthritis clinical scores and paw swelling thickness in CIA rats. Additionally, there was a decrease in osteo-facial fusion and calcified cartilage thickening in the knee joint. Furthermore, the oral administration of B. animalis BD400 resulted in the down-regulation of inflammatory factors TNF-α and collagenase MMP-13 in the knee joint. Levels of specific antibodies (anti-CII IgG, anti-CII IgG1, and anti-CII IgG2a) and cytokine IL-17A in serum, as well as cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) in the synovial fluid of B. animalis BD400-treated CIA rats, were significantly reduced (p &lt; 0.05). The gene expression levels of intestinal barrier proteins (occludin-1, MUC-2, and ZO-1) showed a significant increase (p &lt; 0.05) in B. animalis BD400-treated CIA rats. The oral administration of B. animalis BD400 altered the composition of intestinal microorganisms in CIA rats at the phylum and genus levels, particularly affecting the genus HT002. B. animalis BD400 alleviates RA by down-regulating 1-methyl-L-histidine and urocanate in the histidine metabolism, laying a foundation for the RA prevention.ConclusionBy affecting genus HT002 and histidine metabolism in the gut microbiota of CIA rats, B. animalis BD400 restored intestinal permeability, inhibited systemic inflammatory response, and ultimately slowed down the development of RA.
Shining light on knee osteoarthritis: an overview of vitamin D supplementation studies
Authors: Zhang Di , Ye Miaoyu , Xu Yao , Jiang Luyu , Hu Yanmei , Zhang Qi , Han Xiao , Dai Qian , Qian Junhui , Luo Jian , Yuan Qiang 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundThe impact of knee osteoarthritis on individuals’ daily functioning is significant. In recent years, Vitamin D supplements cure osteoarthritis has garnered attention from medical professionals and patients due to its simplicity and portability. Several systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) have examined the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation for knee osteoarthritis, yet there is variability in their methodology and quality.ObjectiveTo search, gather, and analyze data on the characteristics and quantitative results of SR/MA in patients with KOA treated with Vitamin D supplementation, and objectively evaluate the efficacy of supplements. Then, provides clinical evidence and recommendations the clinical use of vitamin D supplementation.MethodsTwo individuals reviewed and collected data from four databases until October 2023. AMSTAR-2, ROBIS, PRISMA 2020, and GRADE tools were used to evaluate the methodological quality, bias risk, reporting quality, and evidence strength of all SR/MA. Additionally, we applied the corrected covered area (CCA) method to measure overlap in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) cited among the SR/MA.Results3 SRs and 6 MAs were included in the analysis: 3 studies were low quality by AMSTAR-2, and 6 studies were very low quality. According to ROBIS, 6 studies were high-risk and 3 were low-risk. In PRISMA 2020 reporting quality, most studies showed deficiencies in comprehensive literature search strategy, reasons for literature exclusion, data preprocessing for meta-analysis, exploration of reasons for heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis, publication bias, and disclosure of funding and conflicts of interest. Grading the quality of evidence in GRADE consisted of 5 items of moderate quality, 14 items of low quality, and 10 items of very low quality. Bias risk and imprecision were the main factors for downgrading. The calculation of RCT overlap between SR/MA using CCA showed a high degree of overlap.ConclusionVitamin D supplementation may show potential efficacy in ameliorating symptoms of KOA. The evidence indicates that Vitamin D supplements for knee osteoarthritis can improve patients’ Total WOMAC scores and synovial fluid volume in the joints. Nevertheless, due to the generally low quality of current studies, future research should prioritize improving the quality of primary studies to establish the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation for KOA with more robust scientific evidence.Systematic review registrationThe protocol of this overview was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/) with the registration number CRD42024535841.
Non-invasive methods for diagnosing portal hypertension and variceal bleeding due to liver cirrhosis secondary to NAFLD/MASLD: systematic review
Authors: Shanka Nebyu Yonas , Pavlov Chavdar S. , Mekonnen Nigatu Leul 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), recently re-termed as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is a global health concern affecting approximately 25% of adults. Complications such as portal hypertension and variceal bleeding are critical to diagnose but challenging with traditional invasive methods like hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), which are not always feasible and carry risks.ObjectivesThis systematic review aim to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of non-invasive methods for diagnosing portal hypertension and variceal bleeding in patients with NAFLD/MASLD cirrhosis, comparing these methods to invasive standards.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect from January 2000 to May 2024. Studies included evaluated non-invasive diagnostic techniques for portal hypertension and variceal bleeding, compared with HVPG and EGD, focusing on adult patients with confirmed NAFLD/MASLD cirrhosis. Data extraction covered study characteristics and diagnostic accuracy metrics. The quality of studies was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Meta-analyses were performed using R and Python.ResultsEleven studies involving 2,707 patients met the inclusion criteria. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) via transient elastography demonstrated high sensitivity (85%) and specificity (79%) for diagnosing clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) at a 20 kPa cutoff. For severe portal hypertension (SPH), LSM had a sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 85% at 25 kPa. Combining LSM with platelet count resulted in a sensitivity of 97% but lower specificity (41%) for CSPH. Spleen stiffness measurement (SSM) also showed good diagnostic performance with a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 75% for CSPH.ConclusionNon-invasive tests, particularly LSM and SSM, show promise in diagnosing portal hypertension and variceal bleeding in NAFLD/MASLD cirrhosis. These methods offer high sensitivity, especially in combination, supporting their use in clinical settings to potentially reduce the need for invasive procedures. Future research should aim to standardize protocols and explore additional biomarkers to further enhance diagnostic accuracy.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?, identifier CRD42024567024.
Effect of a high dose atorvastatin as adjuvant therapy to mesalamine in attenuating inflammation and symptoms in patients with ulcerative colitis: a randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Alarfaj Sumaiah J. , El-Haggar Sahar M. , Hegazy Sahar K. , Maher Maha M. , Bahgat Monir M. , Elmasry Thanaa A. , Alrubia Sarah , Alsegiani Amsha S. , Bahaa Mostafa M. 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundUlcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon. Several preclinical studies investigated the beneficial effects of atorvastatin in colitis. Activation of sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P)/ tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)/ interleukin-6 (IL-6) pathways has been confirmed in the pathogenesis of UC and preclinical studies proved the efficacy of atorvastatin on these pathways.AimTo investigate the role of atorvastatin on S1P/TNF-α/IL-6 pathway in UC.MethodsPatients with mild to moderate UC were allocated into two groups in this pilot study. For 6 months, Group 1 (placebo group) received both a placebo and 1 g of mesalamine three times daily (t.i.d.). Group 2, (the atorvastatin group) received atorvastatin 80 mg once daily and 1 g of mesalamine t.i.d. A gastroenterologist evaluated the patients’ colitis severity by partial Mayo score index (PMS). Serum IL-6, S1P, TNF-α, nitric oxide (NO), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and fecal calprotectin were measured before and after treatment. Short Form 36 questionnaire (SF-36) was also assessed. A clinical response was defined as a decline in the rectal bleeding sub score of at least one point, and a decrease in PMS of at least two points. Clinical remission was defined as a PMS of less than 2 and the absence of any single sub score greater than 1.Primary outcomeDecreased PMS and improved quality of life.Secondary outcomeChange in the level of measured biomarkers.ResultsCompared to the placebo group (n = 24), the atorvastatin group (n = 23) exhibited a significant decrease in the level of IL-6 (p = 0.001), S1P (p = 0.0001), TNF-α (p = 0.003), NO (p = 0.0001), CRP (p = 0.015), ESR (p = 0.012), PMS (p = 0.013), and fecal calprotectin (p = 0.0003), and improved SF-36 (p = 0.006). In placebo group, the response rate was 83.33% (n = 20/24) for PMS, and the remission rate was 45.83% (n = 11/24). In the atorvastatin group, the response rate was 91.3% (n = 21/23), and the remission rate was 60.8% (n = 14/23) for PMS.ConclusionAtorvastatin could be an adjunctive therapy for patients with UC.Clinical trial registrationhttps://www.clinicaltrials.gov/, Identifier NCT05561062.
Unveiling causal immune cell–gene associations in multiple myeloma: insights from systematic reviews and Mendelian randomization analyses
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhang Ling , Lian Jing-Xuan , Kou Zhi-Fu , Zhu Yu , Ma Li-Tian , Zheng Jin , Zhao Can-Jun 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundThe efficacy of novel chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is inconsistent, likely due to an incomplete understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME). This study utilized meta-analysis to evaluate CAR-T-cell therapy efficacy and safety and employed two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal links between immune cells and Multiple Myeloma (MM).MethodOur literature review, conducted from January 1, 2019, to August 30, 2024, across Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, identified 2,709 articles, 34 of which met our inclusion criteria. We utilized MR analysis of GWAS data to identify immune cells causally related to multiple myeloma, followed by SMR analysis to highlight associated pathogenic genes and colocalisation analysis for validation.ResultsThe meta-analysis revealed an 82.2% overall response rate to CAR-T-cell therapy, characterized by a safe profile with a grade 3 or higher CRS of 6.3% and neurotoxicity of 0.9%. BCMA, CD38, and GPRC5D CAR-T-cell therapies had superior response rates, whereas BCMA and CD3 CAR-T-cell therapy rates lagged at 61.8%. Post-adjustment for multiple testing, the levels of seven types of immune cells (two types of Treg, two types of TNBK, two types of B cells, and one type of Myeloid cell) were found to be elevated in association with an increased risk of multiple myeloma (MM), while the levels of another eight types of immune cells (one types of Treg, three types of TNBK, one type of MT cells, and two types of Myeloid cell and one type of cDC cells) were demonstrated to be associated with a decreased risk of MM. As supported by sensitivity analysis. SMR analysis pinpointed the risk genes VDR, VHL, POMC, and FANCD2, with VHL and POMC correlating at the methylation level. VDR was not significantly correlated with MM after correction for multiple tests. NCAM1 also exhibited a significant methylation-level association with disease.ConclusionOur study supports the efficacy and safety of CAR-T-cell therapy in rrMM patients, with an 82.2% ORR and low rates of severe CRS (6.3%) and neurotoxicity (0.9%). This finding also suggests that BCMA/CD19 bispecific CAR-T cells have a superior ORR, pending clinical confirmation. MR analysis reveals links between immune cells, genes such as VDR and VHL, and MM, enhancing our understanding of its pathophysiology.
Global insights into MRSA bacteremia: a bibliometric analysis and future outlook
Authors: Lin Jia-Yi , Lai Jia-Kai , Chen Jian-Yi , Cai Jia-Yu , Yang Zhan-Dong , Yang Liu-Qingqing , Zheng Ze-Tao , Guo Xu-Guang 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bloodstream infections (BSIs) pose a significant challenge to global public health, characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Despite extensive research, the rapid development of MRSA antibiotic resistance has outpaced current treatment methods, increasing the difficulty of treatment. Therefore, reviewing research on MRSA BSIs is crucial.MethodsThis study conducted a bibliometric analysis, retrieving and analyzing 1,621 publications related to MRSA BSIs from 2006 to 2024. The literature was sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), and data visualization and trend analysis were performed using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Bibliometrix software packages.ResultsThe bibliometric analysis showed that research on MRSA BSIs was primarily concentrated in the United States, China, and Japan. The United States leads in research output and influence, with significant contributions from institutions such as the University of California system and the University of Texas system. The journal with the most publications is Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, while the most cited global publication is Vincent JL’s article “Sepsis in European Intensive Care Units: Results of the SOAP Study” published in Critical Care Medicine in 2006. Cosgrove SE’s article “Comparison of Mortality Associated with Methicillin-Resistant and Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia: A Meta-analysis” had the most co-citations. Key trends in the research include MRSA’s antibiotic resistance mechanisms, the application of new diagnostic technologies, and the impact of COVID-19 on MRSA studies. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are increasingly applied in MRSA diagnosis and treatment, and phage therapy and vaccine development have become future research hotspots.ConclusionMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus BSIs remain a major global public health challenge, especially with the increasing severity of antibiotic resistance. Although progress has been made in new treatments and diagnostic technologies, further validation is required. Future research will rely on integrating genomics, AI, and machine learning to drive personalized treatment. Strengthening global cooperation, particularly in resource-limited countries, will be key to effectively addressing MRSA BSIs.
Optimal trajectory of the neuroendoscope for third ventricle pavement access
Authors: Sousa Joana , Silva Susana Maria , Alves Hélio , Carvalho Bruno , Sousa José Maria , Ferreira-Pinto Manuel J. , Andrade José Paulo 
Published: January 2025

Background and aimEndoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) is used to treat hydrocephalus, an abnormal cerebrospinal fluid accumulation in brain ventricles. By defining a new trajectory and entry point interval, we aim to establish a standardized approach for FreeHand ETV, a vital technique when specialized tools are unavailable, or during emergencies.Methods187 MRIs were analyzed, with 30 having hydrocephalus. A pathway crossing the cranial bone, interventricular foramen (of Monro) and tuber cinereum was outlined. Measurements involved distances to cranial sutures, pathway angles and depths, and distances to important anatomical landmarks. Comparisons between hydrocephalic and non-hydrocephalic patients were made while assessing variations linked to age, sex and Evan’s index.ResultsSignificant differences were found, notably for depth (93.520 ± 7.228 mm), coronal plane angulation (10.982° ± 6.119°), distance to the sagittal suture (18.957 ± 8.608 mm), and distance to the superior frontal sulcus (7.00 mm). Other variables did not differ significantly between groups, including for the sagittal plane angulation (2.549° ± 3.576°) and the distances to the precentral sulcus (19.93 ± 7.955 mm), and to the coronal suture (10.55 mm).ConclusionThe new approach, situated close to cranial sutures and distant to the precentral and superior frontal sulcus, shows promise in enhancing surgical precision and outcomes for hydrocephalus management.
Distinct sex differences in ethanol consumption and operant self-administration in C57BL/6J mice with uniform regulation by glutamate AMPAR activity
Authors: Faccidomo Sara , Eastman Vallari R. , Santanam Taruni S. , Swaim Katarina S. , Taylor Seth M. , Hodge Clyde W. 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionConsidering sex as a biological variable (SABV) in preclinical research can enhance understanding of the neurobiology of alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, the behavioral and neural mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate SABV in ethanol (EtOH) consumption by evaluating its reinforcing effects and regulation by glutamate AMPA receptor activity in male and female mice.MethodsC57BL/6J mice (male and female) were assessed for EtOH intake under continuous and limited access conditions in the home cage. Acute sensitivity to EtOH sedation and blood clearance were evaluated as potential modifying factors. Motivation to consume EtOH was measured using operant self-administration procedures. Sex-specific differences in neural regulation of EtOH reinforcement were examined by testing the effects of a glutamate AMPA receptor antagonist on operant EtOH self-administration.ResultsFemale C57BL/6J mice exhibited a time-dependent escalation in EtOH intake under both continuous and limited access conditions. They were less sensitive to EtOH sedation and had lower blood levels post-EtOH administration (4 g/kg) despite similar clearance rates. Females also showed increased operant EtOH self-administration and progressive ratio performance over a 30-day baseline period compared to males. The AMPAR antagonist GYKI 52466 (0–10 mg/kg, IP) dose-dependently reduced EtOH-reinforced lever pressing in both sexes, with no differences in potency or efficacy.DiscussionThese findings confirm that female C57BL/6J mice consume more EtOH than males in home-cage conditions and exhibit reduced acute sedation, potentially contributing to higher EtOH intake. Females demonstrated increased operant EtOH self-administration and motivation, indicating higher reinforcing efficacy. The lack of sex differences in the relative effects of GYKI 52466 suggests that AMPAR activity is equally required for EtOH reinforcement in both sexes.