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Jeyaraman N, Jeyaraman M, Ramasubramanian S, Balaji S, Muthu S. Beyond statistical significance: Embracing minimal clinically important difference for better patient care. World J Methodol 2025; 15:97814. [DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v15.i1.97814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) represents a pivotal metric in bridging the gap between statistical significance and clinical relevance, addressing the direct impact of medical interventions from the patient's perspective. This comprehensive review analyzes the evolution, applications, and challenges of MCID across medical specialties, emphasizing its necessity in ensuring that clinical outcomes not only demonstrate statistical significance but also offer genuine clinical utility that aligns with patient expectations and needs. We discuss the evolution of MCID since its inception in the 1980s, its current applications across various medical specialties, and the methodologies used in its calculation, highlighting both anchor-based and distribution-based approaches. Furthermore, the paper delves into the challenges associated with the application of MCID, such as methodological variability and the interpretation difficulties that arise in clinical settings. Recommendations for the future include standardizing MCID calculation methods, enhancing patient involvement in setting MCID thresholds, and extending research to incorporate diverse global perspectives. These steps are critical to refining the role of MCID in patient-centered healthcare, addressing existing gaps in methodology and interpretation, and ensuring that medical interventions lead to significant, patient-perceived improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Jeyaraman
- Department of Orthopaedics, ACS Medical College and Hospital, Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Research Methods, Orthopaedic Research Group, Coimbatore 641045, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Madhan Jeyaraman
- Department of Orthopaedics, ACS Medical College and Hospital, Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Research Methods, Orthopaedic Research Group, Coimbatore 641045, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Swaminathan Ramasubramanian
- Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Omandurar Government Estate, Chennai 600002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sangeetha Balaji
- Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Omandurar Government Estate, Chennai 600002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sathish Muthu
- Department of Research Methods, Orthopaedic Research Group, Coimbatore 641045, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore 641021, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College, Karur 639004, Tamil Nadu, India
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Calandrelli R, Motolese F, Mallio CA, Di Lazzaro V, Pilato F. A pictorial neuroradiological review of brain vascular abnormalities in patients with kidney disease. Behav Brain Res 2025; 480:115394. [PMID: 39667648 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.115394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 11/27/2024] [Accepted: 12/09/2024] [Indexed: 12/14/2024]
Abstract
A well-known link exists between cerebrovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. Cerebrovascular pathology in patients with kidney disease may be asymptomatic and occasionally discovered through neuroradiological examinations or it may present with neurological symptoms. Covert cerebrovascular lesions represent the earliest injuries associated with chronic kidney disease and primarily result from small vessel damage. These conditions often manifest incidentally, appearing as structural changes (such as lacunes, white matter lesions, enlarged perivascular spaces, cerebral microbleeds, and atrophy) as well as microstructural and hemodynamic alterations, detectable through routine and advanced functional MRIs. These alterations may be associated with a higher risk of stroke, cognitive decline, and dementia. Patients with end-stage renal disease or chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis may be at increased risk of large-artery atherosclerosis, cardio-embolism, or small-vessel occlusion, and they may experience symptomatic acute ischemic strokes as rare complications. Currently, there are no established guidelines or standardized diagnostic protocols for preventing cerebrovascular disease in patients with kidney disease. Clinical and radiological studies are warranted to evaluate the usefulness of incorporating neuroimaging into the diagnostic work-up of these patients in order to improve prognosis and reduce diagnostic delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalinda Calandrelli
- Radiology and Neuroradiology Unit, Department of Imaging, Radiation Therapy and Hematology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli, 1, Rome 00168, Italy.
| | - Francesco Motolese
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology and Psychiatry, Università Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Augusto Mallio
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy; Research Unit of Radiology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Lazzaro
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology and Psychiatry, Università Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Pilato
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology and Psychiatry, Università Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
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van Hinsberg A, Loureiro-Chaves R, Schröder J, Truijen S, Saeys W, Yperzeele L. Are standing balance and walking ability deficits poststroke related to the integrity of the corticospinal and non-corticospinal tracts? A meta-analysis. Brain Inj 2025; 39:163-178. [PMID: 39576669 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2024.2422382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 10/22/2024] [Accepted: 10/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of corticospinal tract (CST) integrity in upper limb recovery poststroke is well established, but its association with standing balance and walking remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to establish the relationship between CST and non-CST motor tract integrity, and clinical scores of standing balance and walking poststroke. METHODS In July 2024, five databases were searched for studies, focusing on diffusion MRI metrics and clinical scores of standing balance and/or walking independence poststroke. Meta-analyses were conducted to pool correlation coefficients (r) and group differences (d) based on CST integrity. RESULTS Twenty-two studies were included. Cross-sectional analysis showed no correlation (r < .25) between CST metrics and the functional ambulation category (FAC) in the sub-acute phase. Weak prognostic associations were found for CST-FA and CST-FN with FAC. Significant FAC score differences were found between preserved- and disrupted CST groups in the sub-acute (d = .79) and chronic (d = 1.07) phase and for prognostic analysis (d = 1.40). Non-CST metrics showed no cross-sectional associations and mixed prognostic associations. CONCLUSIONS CST integrity was not significantly associated with standing balance or walking independence in the sub-acute phase. Early CST integrity showed weak prognostic value for walking at 6 months. Multimodal longitudinal research is needed to improve lower limb recovery prognostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber van Hinsberg
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy (REVAKI), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Renata Loureiro-Chaves
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy (REVAKI), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jonas Schröder
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy (REVAKI), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- REVAL Rehabilitation research center, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Steven Truijen
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy (REVAKI), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Saeys
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy (REVAKI), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, RevArte Rehabilitation Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Laetitia Yperzeele
- Neurovascular Center Antwerp and Stroke Unit, Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp (Edegem), Belgium
- Research Group on Translational Neurosciences University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Wu T, Yang M, Jin L, Yu H, Huang H, Wu Y, Li B, Tu Y, Wan X, Liu J. Theaflavin-3,3'-digallate (TF3) attenuated constipation by promoting gastrointestinal motility and modulating the gut microbiota: A comparative study of TF3 and the anti-constipation drug mosapride in mice. Food Chem 2025; 465:142048. [PMID: 39571432 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.142048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 11/05/2024] [Accepted: 11/12/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024]
Abstract
TF3 is a functional pigment formed during the process of black tea. This study aims to explore the anti-constipation effects of TF3 and compare its efficacy with the anti-constipation drug mosapride. Result showed that both TF3 and mosapride increased fecal water content and promoted gastrointestinal (GI) motility, but TF3 was more effective in restoring excitatory neurotransmitters like gastrin (Gas), motilin (MTL), and substance P (SP). TF3 uniquely altered the gut microbiota profile and restored the bacterial community at the phylum level. TF3 targeted specific bacteria such as Alloprevotella, Bacteroides, and Parabacteroides, while mosapride affected different bacterial groups. Significant changes in Bacteroides and Prevotellaceae UCG-001 were linked to constipation improvement. Importantly, TF3 did not synergize with mosapride in alleviating constipation. These findings highlight TF3's unique role in modulating gut microbiota to relieve constipation and suggest great potential to develop functional foods with anti-constipation properties using tea-derived polyphenols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingbo Wu
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Mingxue Yang
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Leyi Jin
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Haonan Yu
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Haitao Huang
- Tea Research Institute, Hangzhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Youying Tu
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Xiaochun Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, Anhui, PR China
| | - Junsheng Liu
- Department of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, PR China.
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Hynd M, Gibson K, Walsh M, Phillips R, Prim J, Eisenlohr-Moul T, Walsh E, Dichter G, Schiller C. Estradiol modulates resting-state connectivity in perimenopausal depression. J Affect Disord 2025; 371:253-260. [PMID: 39581384 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.11.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2024] [Revised: 11/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/21/2024] [Indexed: 11/26/2024]
Abstract
The perimenopausal transition is marked by an increased risk for affective dysregulation and major depressive disorder (MDD), with hormone replacement therapy using estradiol (E2) showing promise for alleviating symptoms of perimenopausal-onset MDD (PO-MDD). Although E2's effectiveness is recognized, its mechanisms underlying mood symptom modulation remain to be fully elucidated. Building on previous research suggesting that E2 may influence mood by altering cortico-subcortical connectivity, this study investigated the effects of transdermal E2 on resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) in perimenopausal women with and without PO-MDD, focusing on rsFC changes using seed regions within reward and emotion processing networks. In this pharmaco-fMRI study, 16 participants with PO-MDD and 18 controls underwent rsFC analysis before and after three weeks of transdermal E2 administration. Pre-E2 results showed that the PO-MDD group, compared to controls, exhibited increased connectivity between the right amygdala (seed) and medial prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, and decreased connectivity with the supplementary motor area. Comparing groups on change from pre-E2 to post-E2 revealed several significant E2-induced changes in connectivity between the PO-MDD and control groups: PO-MDD showed increased connectivity between the right caudate nucleus (seed) and left insula, and decreased connectivity between the right putamen (seed) and left hippocampus, and the right amygdala (seed) and left ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Notably, changes in connectivity were predictive of symptom trajectories across anhedonia, depressive mood, somatic, and vasomotor domains in the PO-MDD group. These findings enrich our understanding of PO-MDD by highlighting distinct rsFC patterns characteristic of the disorder and their shifts in response to E2 treatment, suggesting potential neural mechanisms underlying E2's mood-modulating effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Hynd
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America.
| | - Kathryn Gibson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Melissa Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Rachel Phillips
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Julianna Prim
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Tory Eisenlohr-Moul
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Erin Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Gabriel Dichter
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Crystal Schiller
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
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Krishnan A. Radiotherapy dosage: A neural network approach for uninvolved liver dose in stereotactic body radiation therapy for liver cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2025; 17:101888. [DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v17.i2.101888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2024] [Revised: 11/07/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2025] Open
Abstract
A recent study by Zhang et al developed a neural network-based predictive model for estimating doses to the uninvolved liver during stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in liver cancer. The study reported a significant advancement in personalized radiotherapy by improving accuracy and reducing treatment-related toxicity. The model demonstrated strong predictive performance with R-values above 0.8, indicating its potential to improve treatment consistency. However, concerns arise from the small sample size and exclusion criteria, which may limit generalizability. Future studies should incorporate larger, more diverse patient cohorts, explore potential confounding factors such as tumor characteristics and delivery technique variability, and address the long-term effects of SBRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunkumar Krishnan
- Department of Supportive Oncology, Atrium Health Levine Cancer, Charlotte, NC 28204, United States
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Yoganathan S, Lim WK, Vogt L, Seth S, Lambert G, Pai V, Roifman M, Millar AL, Jain P, Gorodetsky C. Cortical Myoclonus in an Adolescent Boy With a De Novo Pathogenic Variant in NUS1 Gene. Neurology 2025; 104:e210309. [PMID: 39772664 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000210309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2025] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sangeetha Yoganathan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wei Kang Lim
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lindsey Vogt
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Siddharth Seth
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Lambert
- Department of Paediatrics and Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Children's Hospital McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Vivek Pai
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada; and
| | - Maian Roifman
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea LeBlanc Millar
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Puneet Jain
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolina Gorodetsky
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Carvajal R, Guananga-Álvarez D, Tur C, Esperalba J, Rodríguez-Barranco M, Rando-Segura A, Borras-Bermejo B, Cobo-Calvo A, Carbonell-Mirabent P, Zules-Oña R, Rodrigo-Pendas JA, Martínez-Gómez X, Montalban X, Tintore M, Otero-Romero S. Effect of the Number of Vaccine Doses Before Starting Anti-CD20 Therapy on Seroprotection Rates Against Hepatitis B Virus in People With MS. Neurology 2025; 104:e210281. [PMID: 39819099 PMCID: PMC11737845 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000210281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 11/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Hepatitis B vaccination (HBV) requires 6 months to complete and is recommended for patients with multiple sclerosis (PWMS), particularly those who are candidates for anti-CD20 therapy. However, limited data exist on HBV immunogenicity in PWMS receiving disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and the impact of starting anti-CD20 therapy during immunization. We aimed to evaluate HBV immunogenicity in PWMS starting anti-CD20 therapy during vaccination, focusing on the number of doses received before anti-CD20 initiation. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort of adult PWMS at a single center in Spain, from April 2015 to May 2023. Eligible participants completed a 4-dose HBV course and underwent postvaccination serologic testing. We assess seroprotection rates (SRs), defined as the percentage of patients achieving anti-hepatitis B surface antibody titers ≥10 IU/L, focusing on those who switched to anti-CD20 therapy during vaccination, based on doses received before starting anti-CD20 and type of DMT at vaccination start. A multivariate generalized linear model (GLM) was used to identify factors associated with higher seroconversion. RESULTS A total of 289 PWMS (median [interquartile range (IQR)] age, 47.7 [42.8-54.4] years; 65.7% female; median [IQR] disease duration, 14.8 [6.7-21.2] years) were included. SRs progressively declined with fewer doses before anti-CD20 initiation, from 92.8% (95% CI 87.1-96.5) for 4 doses to 24.0% (95% CI 9.4-45.1) for 1 dose. Patients transitioning from sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) modulators showed the lowest SR at 25.0% (95% CI 7.3-52.4). The multivariate GLM confirmed these findings, with 3 doses (SR ratio 3.23 [95% CI 1.68-6.23]; p = 0.0005) or 4 doses (SR ratio 3.76 [95% CI 1.96-7.24]; p < 0.0001) before anti-CD20 therapy significantly associated with higher SRs, while starting S1P modulators at vaccination onset was significantly associated with lower SRs (SR ratio 0.42 [95% CI 0.23-0.78]; p = 0.0058). Female sex (SR ratio 1.15 [95% CI 1.01-1.32]; p = 0.0389) and younger age (SR ratio 0.90 [95% CI 0.83-0.97]; p = 0.0036) were also significantly associated with higher SRs. DISCUSSION Initiating anti-CD20 therapy during HBV negatively affects SRs, with a direct correlation with the number of doses received before anti-CD20 initiation. Early planning and execution of required vaccinations are crucial in managing PWMS. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class III evidence that HBV during initiation of anti-CD20 therapy is less effective in establishing seroprotection to hepatitis B than in patients in whom HBV is completed before initiation of anti-CD20 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Carvajal
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Guananga-Álvarez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Tur
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juliana Esperalba
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Spain
| | - Marta Rodríguez-Barranco
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ariadna Rando-Segura
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Borras-Bermejo
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alvaro Cobo-Calvo
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pere Carbonell-Mirabent
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ricardo Zules-Oña
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Preventiva Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Girona Dr. Josep Trueta, Spain; and
| | - Jose Angel Rodrigo-Pendas
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Martínez-Gómez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Montalban
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic/Manresa, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mar Tintore
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic/Manresa, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Susana Otero-Romero
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
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Yosef DK, Ismail AS, Awil BS, Hassan HA, Hassan MA. Epidemiology of dengue fever in Somaliland: clinical features, and serological patterns from a retrospective study. BMC Infect Dis 2025; 25:179. [PMID: 39910527 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-025-10558-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2025] [Indexed: 02/07/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dengue fever is a significant global public health concern. However, its epidemiology in Somaliland remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to provide comprehensive data on the clinical presentation, demographic characteristics, and serological patterns of dengue fever in Somaliland. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1,410 suspected dengue cases from public hospital laboratories in Somaliland between January and September 2024. Demographic data, clinical symptoms, and results of rapid diagnostic tests for dengue NS1 antigen and IgM antibodies were analyzed. RESULTS Of the 1,410 suspected cases, 175 (12.41%) tested positive for dengue. The majority of the patients were male (60.57%) and aged 19-38 years (45.1%). Most cases were from urban areas (58.9%). Common symptoms included fever, vomiting, nausea (86.7%), GIT problems (86.12%) were the predominant symptom of patients. Serological testing revealed 84.57% NS1 positivity, 8.57% IgM positivity, and 6.85% positivity. The peak incidence was observed in June. Only 8.67% of the patients required hospitalization. Among these 8 cases (53.3%), as sever dengue and 7 (46.6%) were dengue with warning signs. CONCLUSION This study provides initial insights into the epidemiology of dengue in Somaliland, though further research is needed to establish robust baseline data, highlighting its prevalence, particularly in urban adults. These preliminary findings suggest a potential need for enhanced surveillance and public health measures, pending confirmation from larger studies to address the emerging arboviral diseases in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dek Kahin Yosef
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Department of Microbiology and Veterinary Public Health, University of Burao, Somaliland, Somalia.
- Jigjiga University, Burao, Ethiopia.
- Department of Microbiology and Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Burao, Burao, Somalia.
| | - Ahmed Saeed Ismail
- Department of Microbiology and Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Burao, Burao, Somalia
| | - Barwaqo Saleban Awil
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medical and Health Science, Edna Aden University, Hargeisa, Somalia
| | - Halima Ahmed Hassan
- Department of Microbiology and Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Burao, Burao, Somalia
| | - Mohamed Ahmed Hassan
- Department of Microbiology and Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Burao, Burao, Somalia
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Tiwari A, Singh R, Kumar S, Sunkaria A, Jain A. From Plant to Pathway: Molecular Mechanisms of Ruscogenin in Preventing Amyloid-Beta Aggregation through Computational and Experimental Approaches. ACS Chem Neurosci 2025; 16:500-512. [PMID: 39793029 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque accumulation, and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles. Recent efforts to find effective therapies have increased interest in natural compounds with multifaceted effects on AD pathology. This study explores natural compounds for their potential to mitigate AD pathology using molecular docking, ADME screening, and in vitro assays, with ruscogenin─a steroidal sapogenin from Ruscus aculeatus─emerging as a promising candidate. Ruscogenin, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, was investigated for its effects on Aβ aggregation, a critical process in AD progression. In vitro assays demonstrated that ruscogenin inhibits Aβ oligomerization at equimolar and higher molar ratios. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations further revealed that ruscogenin targets aggregation-prone regions, reducing noncovalent interactions and the solvent-accessible surface area of Aβ aggregates. These effects were concentration-dependent, with higher concentrations yielding optimal inhibition, pointing to a multiphasic behavior in ruscogenin's modulation of Aβ aggregation. This study highlights ruscogenin's potential as a natural therapeutic agent for AD, capable of addressing both oxidative stress and inflammation. The findings lay the groundwork for further exploration of ruscogenin-based interventions and underscore the broader potential of natural compounds in AD treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aastha Tiwari
- Department of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand 835215, India
| | - Ravinder Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005, India
| | - Shubham Kumar
- Department of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand 835215, India
| | - Aditya Sunkaria
- Department of Biotechnology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005, India
| | - Alok Jain
- Department of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand 835215, India
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11
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Singh S, Khan S, Khan S, Ansari O, Malhotra N, Shukla SK, Narang J. Muscle Matters: Transforming Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Diagnostics with Next-Gen Biosensors and Smart Detection. ACS Chem Neurosci 2025. [PMID: 39910731 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2025] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily targets the motor system, causing patients' speech and swallowing ability to rapidly deteriorate. Although ALS is usually classified into familial and sporadic forms, diagnosing it can be extremely difficult due to the absence of definitive biomarkers, often resulting in delays in diagnosis. Current diagnostic practices rely heavily on clinical assessments that indicate damage to both upper motor neurons (UMNs) and lower motor neurons (LMNs). This includes comprehensive physical examinations, electromyography (EMG) to assess neuromuscular function, and the exclusion of other similar conditions such as cervical spondylotic myelopathy, multifocal motor neuropathy, and Kennedy's disease through appropriate diagnostic procedures. The urgent need for specific biomarkers is critical for timely diagnosis and therapeutic advancements in ALS management. While many recent developments in research have not yet translated into direct patient benefits, the recognition of ALS as a complex disease is beginning to influence clinical practice significantly. Optimal management strategies emphasize on symptom control and improving the quality of life for patients within a holistic healthcare framework. This review provides a comprehensive overview of ALS, delving into its pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, and the latest advancements in detection methods that utilize traditional approaches, innovative biosensors, and smart diagnostic technologies. It discusses various treatment options available for ALS while exploring future developments that may enhance patient screening and improve clinical outcomes. By integrating assessments into the underlying mechanisms of the disease with cutting-edge diagnostic approaches, this review aims to contribute meaningfully to ongoing efforts to optimize ALS management and therapeutic strategies, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumitra Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Sameer Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Shina Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Osheen Ansari
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Nitesh Malhotra
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health Science, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad 121004, India
| | - Sudheesh K Shukla
- Centre for Nanoscience and Nano bioelectronics, School of Chemical Engineering and Physical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Jagriti Narang
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
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12
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Mofatteh M, Mohamed A, Mashayekhi MS, Skandalakis GP, Neudorfer C, Arfaie S, MohanaSundaram A, Sabahi M, Anand A, Aboulhosn R, Liao X, Horn A, Ashkan K. Deep brain stimulation of the hypothalamic region: a systematic review. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2025; 167:33. [PMID: 39904782 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-025-06430-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2025] [Indexed: 02/06/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been successfully used for the treatment of circuitopathies including movement, anxiety, and behavioral disorders. The hypothalamus is a crucial integration center for many peripheral and central pathways relating to cardiovascular, metabolic, and behavioral functions and constitutes a potential target for neuromodulation in treatment-refractory conditions. To conduct a systematic review, investigating hypothalamic targets in DBS, their indications, and the primary clinical findings. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched in accordance with the PRISMA guideline to identify papers published in English studying DBS of the hypothalamus in humans. RESULTS After screening 3,148 papers, 34 studies consisting of 412 patients published over two decades were included in the final review. Hypothalamic DBS was indicated in refractory headaches (n = 238, 57.8%), aggressive behavior (n = 100, 24.3%), mild Alzheimer's disease (n = 58, 14.1%), trigeminal neuralgia in multiple sclerosis (n = 5, 1.2%), Prader-Willi syndrome (n = 4, 0.97%), and atypical facial pain (n = 3, 0.73%). The posterior hypothalamus was the most common DBS target site across 30 studies (88.2%). 262 (63.6%) participants were males, and 110 (26.7%) were females. 303 (73.5%) patients were adults whereas 33 (8.0%) were pediatrics. The lowest mean age of participants was 15.25 ± 4.6 years for chronic refractory aggressiveness, and the highest was 68.5 ± 7.9 years in Alzheimer's disease patients. The mean duration of the disease ranged from 2.2 ± 1.7 (mild Alzheimer's disease) to 19.8 ± 10.1 years (refractory headaches). 213 (51.7%) patients across 29 studies (85.3%) reported symptom improvements which ranged from 23.1% to 100%. 25 (73.5%) studies reported complications, most of which were associated with higher voltage stimulations. CONCLUSIONS DBS of the hypothalamus is feasible in selected patients with various refractory conditions ranging from headaches to aggression in both pediatric and adult populations. Future large-scale studies with long-term follow-up are required to validate the safety and efficacy data and extend these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mofatteh
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
- Neuro International Collaboration (NIC), London, UK.
| | - Abdulkadir Mohamed
- Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Neuro International Collaboration (NIC), Oxford, UK
| | - Mohammad Sadegh Mashayekhi
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Neuro International Collaboration (NIC), Vancouver, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Georgios P Skandalakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Evangelismos General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Clemens Neudorfer
- Brain Modulation Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Brain Circuit Therapeutics Department of Neurology Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Movement Disorder and Neuromodulation Unit, Department of Neurology, Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Saman Arfaie
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Neuro International Collaboration (NIC), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Mohammadmahdi Sabahi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Pauline Braathen Neurological Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL, USA
| | - Ayush Anand
- Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, B. P, Dharan, Nepal
| | | | - Xuxing Liao
- Department of Neurosurgery, First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Andreas Horn
- Movement Disorder and Neuromodulation Unit, Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Center for Brain Circuit Therapeutics, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Keyoumars Ashkan
- Neuro International Collaboration (NIC), London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- King's Health Partners Academic Health Sciences Centre, London, UK
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Neurosurgery, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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13
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Luders E, Spencer D, Dale C, Hughes IA, Thankamony A, Srirangalingam U, Gleeson H, Simpson H, Hines M, Kurth F. The corpus callosum in people with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Sci Rep 2025; 15:4206. [PMID: 39905209 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-88870-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2025] [Indexed: 02/06/2025] Open
Abstract
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands. CAH manifests in abnormal levels of cortisol and androgens and is accompanied by white matter alterations. However, no CAH study has specifically targeted the corpus callosum, the brain's largest white matter fiber tract. To bridge that gap in the literature, we investigated callosal morphology in 53 individuals with CAH and 53 matched controls (66 women, 40 men). In addition to calculating areas for seven callosal subsections, we estimated the callosal thickness at 100 equidistant points. All statistical analyses were conducted while co-varying for age and total brain volume and applying corrections for multiple comparisons. There were no significant effects of biological sex and no significant group-by-sex interactions. However, there was a significant effect of group, both for area measures and thickness estimates, indicating smaller dimensions within the callosal splenium and isthmus in people with CAH. Our findings corroborate previous studies highlighting white matter alterations in CAH and may suggest that callosal integrity is compromised due to potentially adverse effects of glucocorticoids, a standard treatment for both men and women with CAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Luders
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Laboratory of Neuro Imaging, USC Stevens Institute for Neuroimaging and Informatics, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Debra Spencer
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Caitlin Dale
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ieuan A Hughes
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ajay Thankamony
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- The Weston Centre for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Umasuthan Srirangalingam
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University College Hospital London, London, NW1 2BU, UK
| | | | - Helen Simpson
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University College Hospital London, London, NW1 2BU, UK
| | - Melissa Hines
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Florian Kurth
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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14
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Clarke KSP, Kingdon CC, Hughes MP, Lacerda EM, Lewis R, Kruchek EJ, Dorey RA, Labeed FH. The search for a blood-based biomarker for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS): from biochemistry to electrophysiology. J Transl Med 2025; 23:149. [PMID: 39905423 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-025-06146-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2025] [Indexed: 02/06/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a disease of unknown aetiology characterised by symptoms of post-exertional malaise (PEM) and fatigue leading to substantial impairment in functioning. Other key symptoms include cognitive impairment and unrefreshing sleep, with many experiencing pain. To date there is no complete understanding of the triggering pathomechanisms of disease, and no quantitative biomarker available with sufficient sensitivity, specificity, and adoptability to provide conclusive diagnosis. Clinicians thus eliminate differential diagnoses, and rely on subjective, unspecific, and disputed clinical diagnostic criteria-a process that often takes years with patients being misdiagnosed and receiving inappropriate and sometimes detrimental care. Without a quantitative biomarker, trivialisation, scepticism, marginalisation, and misunderstanding of ME/CFS continues despite the significant disability for many. One in four individuals are bed-bound for long periods of time, others have difficulties maintaining a job/attending school, incurring individual income losses of thousands, while few participate in social activities. MAIN BODY Recent studies have reported promising quantifiable differences in the biochemical and electrophysiological properties of blood cells, which separate ME/CFS and non-ME/CFS participants with high sensitivities and specificities-demonstrating potential development of an accessible and relatively non-invasive diagnostic biomarker. This includes profiling immune cells using Raman spectroscopy, measuring the electrical impedance of blood samples during hyperosmotic challenge using a nano-electronic assay, use of metabolomic assays, and certain techniques which assess mitochondrial dysfunction. However, for clinical application, the specificity of these biomarkers to ME/CFS needs to be explored in more disease controls, and their practicality/logistics considered. Differences in cytokine profiles in ME/CFS are also well documented, but finding a consistent, stable, and replicable cytokine profile may not be possible. Increasing evidence demonstrates acetylcholine receptor and transient receptor potential ion channel dysfunction in ME/CFS, though how these findings could translate to a diagnostic biomarker are yet to be explored. CONCLUSION Different biochemical and electrophysiological properties which differentiate ME/CFS have been identified across studies, holding promise as potential blood-based quantitative diagnostic biomarkers for ME/CFS. However, further research is required to determine their specificity to ME/CFS and adoptability for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista S P Clarke
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Caroline C Kingdon
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Michael Pycraft Hughes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology/Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Eliana Mattos Lacerda
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Lewis
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Emily J Kruchek
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Robert A Dorey
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Fatima H Labeed
- Department of Biology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE.
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
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15
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Yang Y, Hong Q, Zhang X, Liu Z. Protective effect of a combination of multiple strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus on collagen-induced arthritis. Food Funct 2025; 16:943-965. [PMID: 39807088 DOI: 10.1039/d4fo05273k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2025]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic, chronic autoimmune disease. Many studies have shown that microorganisms may be an important pathological factor leading to the onset of RA. Some infectious or non-infectious pathogenic microorganisms and their metabolites may be the initiating factors of the early onset of RA. The aim of this study was to alleviate RA by regulating the imbalance of the gut microbiota in the early stage of RA using mixed bacterial strains. The mixed strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus (BD18, NCFM, BD1802, BD3545, BD5032) significantly reduced the clinical score and swelling thickness of the paws of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats. The expression of TNF-α and MMP-13 proteins in the joints of CIA rats was also inhibited. The levels of specific antibodies (anti-CII IgG, anti-CII IgG1, anti-CII IgG2a, and anti-CII IgG2b) and inflammatory factor IL-6 in the serum of CIA rats were also significantly reduced. The relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Clostridia_UCG-014, Ruminococcus, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Romboutsia, Turicibacter, and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 in the gut microbiota of CIA rats receiving oral administration of the mixed strains of L. acidophilus was significantly reduced, bringing their microbiota closer to that of healthy rats. Moreover, the levels of intestinal metabolites of short chain fatty acids in CIA rats, acetic acid and butyric acid, were significantly increased. The mixed strains of L. acidophilus could recover the relative abundance of Ligilactobacillus, Clostridia_UCG-014_unclassified, Ruminococcus, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Romboutsia and Turicibacter, affecting purine metabolism, transcription factors and alanine metabolism, and reducing the levels of specific antibodies and inflammatory factors in the blood, finally slowing the development of experimental arthritis induced by CII, which exerts the protective effect of probiotics. Mixed L. acidophilus strains are more effective than a single strain, and the effect is not the result of a single strain, but of a combination of strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai, China.
- Dairy Research Institute, Bright Dairy & Food Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai, China.
- Dairy Research Institute, Bright Dairy & Food Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenmin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai, China.
- Dairy Research Institute, Bright Dairy & Food Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
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16
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Monteiro SS, Geraldo A, Pinto JO, Santos IM, DeFilippis N, Ferreira-Santos F. Neuropsychological assessment by video teleconference in adults: A systematic review. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2025:1-18. [PMID: 39898586 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2025.2455538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2025]
Abstract
Among the diverse advantages that neuropsychological assessment via video teleconference (VTC) presents, increased accessibility and convenience are the most recognized. However, questions remain regarding the impact of VTC on the validity of neuropsychological testing. This systematic review aimed to (a) update the current knowledge of neuropsychological testing validity conducted via VTC in adults; (b) identify factors contributing to variability in results; and (c) recommend best practices for conducting these assessments. A total of 21 crossover studies were analyzed. The samples of these studies included healthy adults and individuals with cognitive impairments, with mean ages ranging from 23 to 81 years. Overall, the results point toward a strong agreement between VTC and in-person assessments. However, some variability was found across domains, with motor and timed tasks being particularly vulnerable to technical problems such as poor video/audio quality, unstable internet connections, limited familiarity with software and inadequacy of some devices. Additional challenges were identified when providing these services to individuals with cognitive impairments, specifically in tasks requiring clear verbal instructions or precise visual details. Further research is essential to establish standardized VTC protocols and administration guidelines, particularly for clinical populations, to mitigate variability and enhance the validity of VTC-based neuropsychological assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraia Silva Monteiro
- Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- William James Center for Research (WJCR), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Andreia Geraldo
- Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- HEI‑Lab: Digital Human‑Environment Interaction Labs, Lusófona University, Porto, Portugal
- Escola Superior de Saúde, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana O Pinto
- Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Escola Superior de Saúde, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabel Maria Santos
- William James Center for Research (WJCR), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Nick DeFilippis
- Atlanta Psychological Associates, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Fernando Ferreira-Santos
- Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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17
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Khan S, Talley L. Beyond the Hit: The Hidden Costs of Repetitive Head Trauma. Neurosci Insights 2025; 20:26331055251316315. [PMID: 39906029 PMCID: PMC11792012 DOI: 10.1177/26331055251316315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2025] [Indexed: 02/06/2025] Open
Abstract
Repetitive head trauma in sports, particularly concussions, has been strongly associated with neurocognitive impairments, including depression, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), and altered brain function. These injuries can have significant consequences on major cognitive processes, such as learning and memory. This review synthesizes research that examines the effects of sports-related head trauma, particularly in football, on cognitive functioning. Post-mortem analyses of players across all positions have revealed neuropathological evidence of CTE, including a distinct reduction in hippocampal volume. Notably, episodic memory, a component of declarative memory, is frequently compromised in individuals with CTE. Furthermore, deficits in working memory may contribute to decreased performance during play. Early detection of head trauma and implementation of preventive strategies are crucial for mitigating long-term consequences. While impact-reducing techniques have shown some efficacy in decreasing brain injury incidence, proper tackling techniques, such as "heads-up play," also play a vital role in minimizing risk. Further research and increased awareness are needed to ensure athletes are fully informed of the potential cognitive risks associated with participation in high-impact sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sikandar Khan
- University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Lora Talley
- University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA
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18
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Taboada-Alquerque M, Olivero-Verbel J. Network Toxicology Analysis Reveals Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Noise Exposure to Multiple Diseases. Toxicol Mech Methods 2025:1-25. [PMID: 39898607 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2025.2460591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 12/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2025] [Indexed: 02/04/2025]
Abstract
Noise pollution is recognized as an environmental stressor that affects various biological processes beyond auditory functions, mainly through stress hormones release. This work explored the biological processes, diseases attributable to noise-regulated targets, and the main targets involved in each disease, employing a network toxicology approach. Through various databases and bioinformatics analysis, a total of 577 targets were identified as potential candidates implicated in diseases related to noise exposure, 10 from the GEO database and the rest from other databases. Noise pollution was found to regulate processes such as hormone response, cellular response to cytokines, and circulatory system functions, contributing to the development of the pathological manifestations related to the diseases like hypertension, ischemia, atherosclerosis, and cirrhosis. Hub targets for ischemia included IL-6, CASP3, AKT1, and TNF-α, while NOS3 was related to hypertension, and NOS3, TNF-α, AGT, and IL-1B to atherosclerosis. The targets were found to be linked to vascular regulation and inflammation in cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases. Molecular docking studies indicated stress hormones released by noise exposure regulates these diseases through signaling pathways, without implicating its direct binding to hub targets. The results indicate that individuals with vascular diseases are more vulnerable to the effects of prolonged noise exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Taboada-Alquerque
- Environmental and Computational Chemistry Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zaragocilla Campus, University of Cartagena, Cartagena 130014, Colombia
| | - Jesus Olivero-Verbel
- Environmental and Computational Chemistry Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zaragocilla Campus, University of Cartagena, Cartagena 130014, Colombia
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19
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Corbo I, Favieri F, Forte G, Casagrande M. Decision-making under uncertainty in healthy and cognitively impaired aging: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2025; 129:105643. [PMID: 39369563 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2024] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024]
Abstract
Decision-making (DM) is a complex cognitive behavior that involves gathering information and assessing options to identify choices under risky and uncertain conditions. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a construct that includes a constellation of symptoms ranging from behavioral to cognitive impairments. This cluster of symptoms is frequently associated with poor decision-making. This study aimed to examine decision-making in pathological aging, specifically MCI. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate these relationships. According to the PRISMA 2020 Statement, nine studies were selected for the systematic review and eight for the meta-analysis. The results highlighted that MCI is associated with impaired decision-making in risky and ambiguous situations. The systematic review reported that MCI was associated with impaired decision-making in ambiguous and in risky conditions. In contrast, the meta-analysis showed significant differences in overall decision-making and particularly in ambiguous conditions. This difficulty may be due to different impairments that affect MCI. The difficulty in advantageous decision-making could be due to different brain alterations in MCI, which could lead to problems in tasks requiring feedback-based responses. These findings advance our understanding of decision-making in aging and suggest how decision-making alterations in MCI would affect the totality of executive functions and daily activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Corbo
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies - "Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Favieri
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies - "Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Forte
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies - "Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Casagrande
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies - "Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy.
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20
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Wombles C, Ballard E, Skinner H, Claudio A, Lee KH, Khan Suheb MZ, Okorie O, Parikh A, Bassel R, Gireesh ED. Use of intrathecal rituximab in autoimmune epilepsy: A retrospective study. Epilepsy Behav 2025; 164:110280. [PMID: 39893702 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2025.110280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2025] [Accepted: 01/26/2025] [Indexed: 02/04/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is a significant challenge in neurological practice, often proving refractory to conventional treatments. It typically manifests with recurrent seizures or status epilepticus, necessitating early diagnosis and tailored therapy for optimal outcomes. Early institution of effective treatment has been reported to reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with this condition. A subpopulation presenting with acute seizures due to autoimmune encephalitis later develop chronic epilepsy, which can be refractory to conventional modes of treatments. In addition, there is a group of chronic epilepsy patients who did not have acute symptomatic seizures who have autoimmune antibodies suggesting an immunological origin of their seizures. This study aims at evaluating the use of rituximab administered intrathecally, for treating these patients, taking pharmacodynamic properties into account. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of intrathecal rituximab (ITR) in 15 patients with autoimmune-related epilepsy (9 of them with acute presentation with seizures and 6 with chronic intractable epilepsy). The nature of these seizures, laboratory findings, imaging and EEG findings were compared over the course of treatment and follow up. RESULTS No significant long term side effects related to administration of ITR were noted in the 15 patients reported in this series. Improvement was noted in seizure control in the majority of the patients, especially in the acute presentation category, although definitive conclusions about efficacy could not be made since these patients were also receiving additional modes of therapies. Better seizure control was noted in all patients in 12 months follow up. CONCLUSIONS Our findings underscore the safety of intrathecal rituximab in treating autoimmune-related status epilepticus and refractory epilepsy related to autoimmune etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wombles
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Advent Health Neuroscience Institute, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Emilyn Ballard
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Advent Health Neuroscience Institute, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Holly Skinner
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Advent Health Neuroscience Institute, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Angel Claudio
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Advent Health Neuroscience Institute, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Ki Hyeong Lee
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Advent Health Neuroscience Institute, Orlando, FL, USA
| | | | - Okorie Okorie
- Adventhealth Neurocritical Care Program, Advent Health Neuroscience Institute, Orlando, USA
| | - Amay Parikh
- Adventhealth Neurocritical Care Program, Advent Health Neurosc
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