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Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. induces intestinal toxicity through the histamine-MLCK-tight junction axis: Integrated evidence from proteomics, metabolomics, intestinal organoids and epithelial barrier validation.

Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. (PR) is a saponin-rich medicinal plant associated with gastrointestinal toxicity, but the mechanisms underlying PR-induced intestinal barrier injury remain unclear. In this study, raw PR extract was analytically characterized by UPLC-ZenoTOF-MS/MS, confirming triterpenoid saponins as the predominant constituents. C57BL/6 J mice were orally exposed to characterized PR extract (1.20 or 12.0 g/kg for 5 h), and Caco-2 cells and mouse intestinal organoids were used to assess epithelial toxicity and barrier disruption. Histopathology, ELISA, FITC-dextran permeability assays, immunofluorescence, CCK-8, LDH release, western blotting, DIA-based proteomics and untargeted metabolomics were integrated to define toxicological mechanisms. PR induced dose-dependent intestinal inflammation and barrier dysfunction, with the ileum as the most sensitive target. PR increased serum DAO and D-lactate and intestinal TNF-α and IL-1β, disrupted organoid morphology, enhanced epithelial permeability, and reduced ZO-1 expression. Proteomics revealed changes in inflammatory, lipid-metabolic, cytoskeletal and tight-junction pathways, including upregulation of MLCK3 and phospholipase-related proteins and downregulation of ZO-1 and ZO-2. Metabolomics identified histidine metabolism disturbance and histamine accumulation. Integrated multi-omics and pharmacological validation indicated that histamine activated the PLC/IP₃/Ca²⁺/CaM/MLCK cascade, promoting MLC phosphorylation, tight-junction disassembly and epithelial leakiness. MLCK inhibition partially restored ZO-1/ZO-2 expression and attenuated PR-induced epithelial injury. These findings identify the histamine-MLCK-tight junction axis as a key mechanism of PR-induced intestinal toxicity and support hazard identification of saponin-rich PR exposure.

Animals

Role of omentin-1 in the global proteome of porcine pituitary cells: insights into proliferation- and apoptosis-related processes.

The anterior pituitary integrates endocrine regulation, cellular growth, and adaptive responses. Adipokines, secreted mainly by adipose tissue, act as hormonal signals linking metabolism, inflammation, appetite, and reproduction. They regulate hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis by modulating hormone secretion and intracellular signaling. The presence of adipokine receptors in anterior pituitary suggests local metabolic-endocrine interactions. Omentin-1, predominantly expressed in visceral adipose tissue, participates in glucose metabolism and ovarian steroid regulation. Recent findings indicate that omentin-1 modulates tropic hormones, their receptors, and adipokine balance in anterior pituitary cells. We hypothesized that omentin-1 affects protein expression and signaling pathways involved in pituitary cell proliferation and apoptosis. This study examined its effects in anterior pituitary cells from Large White and Meishan pigs. Proteomic analysis identified 230 candidate differentially abundant proteins after omentin-1 treatment: 30 downregulated and 3 upregulated in Large White pigs, and 107 downregulated and 90 upregulated in Meishan pigs, associated with enriched 116 Gene Ontology terms. Key proteins were associated with cell cycle, DNA replication, gene expression, and posttranscriptional/posttranslational regulation. Responses differed between breeds. CDK5RAP2 and SIX1 were linked to proliferative control in Large White pigs, whereas AKT1S1 and RHOA were among the proteins associated with the broader proteomic response observed in Meishan pigs. Meishan pigs showed dynamic apoptotic protein regulation, including HTRA2, PARP2, and DFFA. Complementary in vitro experiments demonstrated that omentin-1 downregulated cyclins and caspase-3, upregulated BCL2, increased BCL2/BAX ratio, and modulated ERK1/2, AKT, AMPKα, and STAT3 phosphorylation. Together, these findings suggest that omentin-1 modulates proteomic networks and intracellular signaling associated with anterior pituitary cell function during the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle.

Animals

A randomized trial of viral vector and adjuvanted protein HBV therapeutic vaccine in people with chronic hepatitis B on nucleos(t)ide analogs.

BACKGROUND: This study assessed the safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of a therapeutic immunization strategy aimed at reaching a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B (CHB), relying on a heterologous prime-boost with viral vectors ChAd155-hIi-HBV and MVA-HBV, combined with sequential or concomitant administration of adjuvanted recombinant HBV proteins (HBc-HBs/AS01B). METHODS: This single-blind, randomized, controlled, first-in-human, phase 1/2 trial enrolled adults aged 18-65 years with HBeAg-negative CHB, virally suppressed on nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs), with HBsAg >50 IU/mL. Participants received NAs and the following regimens of 4 doses (8-week intervals): sequential administration of ChAd155-hIi-HBV, MVA-HBV, and 2 HBc-HBs/AS01B doses; co-administration of ChAd155-hIi-HBV+HBc-HBs/AS01B, followed by 3 co-administered MVA-HBV+HBc-HBs/AS01B doses; 4 HBc-HBs/AS01B doses; 2 placebo doses followed by ChAd155-hIi-HBV and MVA-HBV administered alone or with HBc-HBs/AS01B; or 4 placebo doses. Safety, efficacy (≥1-log decrease in quantitative (q)HBsAg or HBsAg loss 24 weeks post-dose 4 [day (D)337]), antibody, and T-cell responses were evaluated. RESULTS: In all, 134 participants were vaccinated. Grade 3 solicited adverse events (AEs) (median duration: 2-3 days) were more frequent after co-administration (systemic: 59.3%; administration-site: 33.3%) than sequential administration (systemic: 10.3%; administration-site: 12.8%) of high-dose viral vectors and proteins. No vaccine-related or fatal serious AEs were reported. After 4 doses, no participant had HBsAg loss or ≥1-log decrease in qHBsAg (D337 vs. D1). Co-administration induced the strongest anti-HBs response (73.7% achieved anti-HBs ≥10 mIU/mL 2 weeks post-dose 4 vs. 40.0% after sequential administration). Both sequential and co-administration induced HBc-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses, with a prime-boost effect of the viral vectors. CONCLUSIONS: Heterologous prime-boost with ChAd155-hIi-HBV and MVA-HBV, combined with sequential or co-administration of HBc-HBs/AS01B, had an acceptable safety profile, were moderately immunogenic, but no participants showed the expected efficacy outcome.

Humans

A Pilot Study: Developing a Lactating Dairy Goat Model to Study Staphylococcus aureus Mastitis in Women.

INTRODUCTION: Lactational mastitis is common in lactating women, with Staphylococcus aureus as the most commonly isolated agent associated with infectious lactational mastitis. Currently, there are no evidence-based guidelines for antimicrobial treatment due to barriers in obtaining pharmacokinetic data from lactating women. To overcome this barrier, a suitable large animal model is needed. Goats are an ideal translational model for human mastitis due to their anatomical and physiological similarity to humans. The objective of this pilot study was to assess if goats would develop clinical mastitis following intramammary inoculation with a clinical human isolate of S. aureus with the goal of establishing an alternative in vivo model for future research. The hypothesis was that the infected mammary gland half would show similar clinical signs to women with mastitis and demonstrate a similar local immune response when compared to the control mammary gland half. METHODS: One half of the mammary gland of two healthy lactating does was inoculated with a clinical human isolate of S. aureus. The other half of the mammary gland was sham inoculated with sterile buffered saline. Physical examinations, mammary gland assessments, and sterile milk samples were collected every 12 hours post inoculation. At 96 hours post inoculation, the goats were euthanized, and the mammary glands were examined for pathological changes. RESULTS: Goats did not develop systemic signs of disease following inoculation. Focal infected mammary gland changes included warmth, swelling, redness, discoloration, and reduced milk production; the other mammary gland half remained normal throughout the study period. S. aureus was enumerated from only the infected mammary gland half. The microscopic findings of the infected half showed neutrophilic inflammation and cell necrosis consistent with acute mastitis. DISCUSSION: This pilot study demonstrated lactating does can develop clinical signs like those observed in women. Goats have the potential to be a promising animal model to study infectious lactational mastitis.

Animals

Clinical Trial: Phase 3 Trial of Resmetirom Versus Placebo in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis-Reanalysis of Fibrosis Stage 2-3 Subset.

BACKGROUND: Resmetirom is an oral thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist clinically used to treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) among adults with stage F2 or F3 fibrosis. AIMS: Because the pivotal, 52-week, randomized, controlled, phase 3 MAESTRO-NASH trial (once-daily oral resmetirom 80 or 100&#x2009;mg or placebo) included patients with F1, F2, or F3 fibrosis, we conducted a post hoc analysis aimed at assessing treatment response in the subset of patients with stages F2 and F3 fibrosis, consistent with the approved label population. METHODS: Co-primary end points were MASH resolution (hepatocellular ballooning score 0, lobular inflammation score &#x2264;&#x2009;1, and &#x2265;&#x2009;2-point nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity score [NAS] reduction from baseline) with no fibrosis worsening, and &#x2265;&#x2009;1-stage fibrosis improvement with no NAS worsening at Week 52. RESULTS: Among 917 patients with F2 or F3 fibrosis, metabolic risk factor prevalence was high (hypertension, 78.0%; dyslipidemia, 71.1%; type 2 diabetes, 67.0%). MASH resolution was achieved by 25.7% in the 80-mg group, 29.9% in the 100-mg group, and 9.5% in the placebo group (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001 for both comparisons with placebo). Respective percentages with fibrosis improvement were 26.5%, 28.9%, and 17.3% (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01 for both comparisons). From baseline to Week 24, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased by 11.7% and 13.7% in the 80- and 100-mg resmetirom groups, respectively, and increased by 2.3% with placebo (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001 for both comparisons). No new safety signals emerged. CONCLUSION: Results among patients with F2 and F3 fibrosis were consistent with the primary MAESTRO-NASH analysis population, demonstrating efficacy and safety of resmetirom after 52&#x2009;weeks.

Humans

Effects of CPAP on endothelial activation and fibrinolytic balance in coronary artery disease with obstructive sleep apnea: The RICCADSA randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) promotes endothelial activation and a prothrombotic milieu through intermittent hypoxia, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation, mechanisms closely linked to atherosclerosis progression. The vascular effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy in patients with established coronary artery disease (CAD) remain incompletely understood. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the longitudinal effects of CPAP treatment on endothelial adhesion molecules and fibrinolytic balance in patients with CAD and OSA. METHODS: In this randomized controlled analysis from the RICCADSA trial, 210 revascularized CAD patients with moderate-to-severe OSA were assigned to CPAP (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;104) or no-CPAP (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;106) and had available biomarker measurements at baseline and 12&#xa0;months. Circulating intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were assessed. Linear mixed-effects models were used to examine longitudinal changes and time-by-treatment interactions adjusted for cardiometabolic covariates. RESULTS: For ICAM-1, no significant time-by-treatment interaction was observed. For PAI-1, a borderline time-by-treatment interaction suggested a numerically smaller increase in the CPAP group compared with no-CPAP (p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.09). CPAP treatment was associated with a significantly greater reduction in VCAM-1 over time compared with no-CPAP (time-by-treatment interaction p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.045 in adjusted models). CONCLUSIONS: CPAP treatment was associated with selective modulation of vascular biomarkers in patients with CAD and OSA, characterized by attenuation of endothelial activation reflected by reduced VCAM-1 levels, while fibrinolytic imbalance appeared largely resistant to intervention. These findings support pathway-specific vascular responses to CPAP and provide mechanistic insight into residual atherosclerotic risk in this high-risk population.

Aged

Secretory Phospholipase A2 in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease Hospitalized for Vaso-Occlusive Pain Episodes.

BACKGROUND: Secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) is an inflammatory mediator linked to acute chest syndrome (ACS) in sickle cell disease (SCD), a serious complication that can develop during an acute vaso-occlusive pain episode (VOE). Plasma sPLA2 levels have been proposed as a potential biomarker for predicting ACS onset. OBJECTIVE: To assess serial plasma sPLA2 levels in 105 pediatric patients hospitalized for SCD-VOE and determine the effects of arginine therapy compared to placebo. PROCEDURES: This is a pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics and randomized controlled trial of intravenous arginine therapy. Statistical methods included t-tests, chi-square, and correlation analyses. RESULTS: Mean age was 12.7 &#xb1; 3.7 years, 48% were male, 67% had Hb-SS, and 70% were prescribed hydroxyurea. Using a previously established SCD-specific cutoff of 48&#xa0;ng/mL, presenting sPLA2 levels were elevated in 33% of patients (mean sPLA2 level 85.7 &#xb1; 32.9&#xa0;ng/mL). SPLA2 elevation in the emergency department was more common in patients with ACS compared to those without ACS (64%&#xa0;vs. 30%; p = 0.02; negative predictive value of 94%). Peak sPLA2 levels were significantly higher in febrile (n = 34) versus afebrile patients (n = 71;101.0 &#xb1; 45.3 vs. 48.7 &#xb1; 35.4&#xa0;ng/mL; p < 0.0001). Among subjects with elevated baseline sPLA2, arginine therapy resulted in a significant reduction in sPLA2 levels by discharge compared to placebo (-27.8 &#xb1; 38.1&#xa0;ng/mL; p = 0.002; n = 23&#xa0;vs. -15.0 &#xb1; 41.2&#xa0;ng/mL; p = 0.23; n = 12). CONCLUSIONS: SPLA2 is an underutilized biomarker of ACS given accumulating evidence of its role. In particular, low levels may identify patients at low risk for ACS. Arginine therapy may modulate inflammation in patients with SCD during VOE and/or ACS. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT02447874; NCT02536170.

Humans

The science of Arabic coffee (Qahwa): from phytochemistry and nutritional profile to health benefits and safety evaluation.

Arabic coffee (Qahwa), a traditional beverage widely consumed in the Middle East, has attracted increasing scientific attention due to its distinctive phytochemical composition and associated health effects. This review provides an integrated analysis of Qahwa's nutritional profile, focusing on its key bioactive constituents, including chlorogenic acids, caffeine, diterpenes (cafestol and kahweol), and phenolic compounds. These constituents contribute to a range of biological activities, notably antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and metabolic regulatory effects. The influence of technological variables, including roasting degree, brewing method, and bean origin, on the chemical composition and functional properties is critically examined. Safety concerns, particularly acrylamide formation and mycotoxin contamination, are also discussed. Although emerging data support Qahwa's potential as a functional beverage, further research is required to clarify dose-response relationships, synergistic interactions, and long-term health outcomes. This work highlights Qahwa as a promising candidate for food and nutraceutical applications, warranting standardized compositional profiling and toxicological evaluation.

Humans

Validation of the lung immune prognostic index in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer: Post hoc analysis of the caspian and IMpower133 phase 3 trials.

BACKGROUND: The Lung Immune Prognostic Index (LIPI) is an inflammation-based biomarker associated with outcomes to immunotherapy across several tumor types. Its prognostic value in extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC), however, remains insufficiently validated. We aimed to validate the prognostic impact of LIPI in ES-SCLC using data from two phase III trials. METHODS: Patients enrolled in the CASPIAN (NCT03043872) and IMpower133 (NCT02763579) trials were included. LIPI groups were defined as good (dNLR<3 and LDH<ULN), intermediate (dNLR&#x2265;3 or LDH&#x2265;ULN) and poor (dNLR&#x2265;3 and LDH&#x2265;ULN). Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were assessed across LIPI categories and treatment arms. RESULTS: LIPI was available for 1140 patients (Good: 34%, Intermediate: 49%, Poor: 17%), including 708 treated with chemotherapy-immunotherapy and 432 with chemotherapy alone. Poor LIPI was associated with unfavorable characteristics, including lower albumin levels and higher rate of liver metastases. Median OS was 14.6 months (95%CI: 12.4-15.9) for LIPI Good, 10.9 (10.1-11.5) for Intermediate, and 8.4 (7.1-9.3) for Poor (p&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.0001). In multivariate models adjusted on gender, age, ECOG, treatment arm and metastatic sites, LIPI remained an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR Poor vs. Good: 1.76, 95%CI: 1.45-2.15, p&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.001) and PFS (HR: 1.59, 95%CI: 1.33-1.90, p&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.001). Although patients with poor LIPI derived limited benefit from immunotherapy, no significant treatment-LIPI interaction was observed. CONCLUSION: This large post hoc analysis confirms LIPI as a robust and clinically applicable prognostic biomarker in ES-SCLC. Patients with poor LIPI have substantially worse outcomes and limited benefit from immunotherapy, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies in this subgroup.

Humans

Carboxyl group number and acidity of organic acids regulate structural reorganization and low glycemic index in cassava pyrodextrins via molecular interactions.

Transforming high-glycemic cassava starch into functional dietary fiber via pyrodextrinization is a promising way to valorize tuber crops, yet the molecular mechanisms catalyzed by organic acids with different carboxyl numbers and acidity remain unclear. This study investigates how carboxyl number and acidity of acetic acid (AA), tartaric acid (TA), and citric acid (CA) affect structural reorganization and low glycemic properties of cassava pyrodextrins. Compared with AA, TA, and CA with stronger acidity and more carboxyl groups promoted more extensive hydrolysis, transglycosylation, repolymerization, and esterification. These changes increased indigestible glycosidic linkages and the branching degree, while reducing molecular weight. Molecular docking confirmed stronger hydrogen-bonding interactions between TA/CA and starch chains. Furthermore, TA- and CA-catalyzed pyrodextrins exhibited superior anti-digestive properties with resistant starch up to 54.26% and an estimated glycemic index as low as 42.46, highlighting the critical role of carboxyl numbers and acidities in modulating the functionality of pyrodextrins.

Manihot

Histoplasmosis in children: emerging insights and evolving guidelines.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review provides an update on the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management recommendations incorporating recommendations from recent publications including the Infectious Disease Society of America guidelines for the management of pulmonary and disseminated histoplasmosis. RECENT FINDINGS: Updates to the epidemiology of histoplasmosis indicate a broader geographic range than historically defined. Updated guidelines do not recommend routine treatment for asymptomatic, mild and moderate pulmonary histoplasmosis although itraconazole can be offered for immunocompromised children or for prolonged or worsening symptoms. Liposomal amphotericin B is recommended as initial treatment for severe histoplasmosis syndromes (severe pulmonary and disseminated histoplasmosis). Fibrosing mediastinitis, a late complication of histoplasmosis is treated with stenting of vessels and bronchi. Recent studies demonstrate that rituximab (anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody) may stop progression or lead to regression of progressive fibrosis. SUMMARY: Histoplasmosis has manifold manifestations, many of which are self-limited and do not require treatment. Severe histoplasmosis and its complications should be treated with liposomal amphotericin B followed by itraconazole. Clinical trials are needed to assess the efficacy of rituximab for the treatment of fibrosing mediastinitis.

Humans

Premeal insulin administration lowers postprandial blood glucose and increases myocardial microvascular blood flow in people with type 1 diabetes: a randomised, crossover clinical trial.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: We aimed to evaluate whether prandial insulin timing affects vascular function in people with type 1 diabetes. Our hypothesis was that premeal insulin administration would lead to greater myocardial microvascular blood flow (MBF) via blunting postprandial hyperglycaemia. METHODS: People with type 1 diabetes between 18 and 35 years of age with BMI <30 kg/m2 underwent two protocols with a 1:1 randomised crossover design wherein prandial insulin was injected either 15 min before or 15 min after meal intake began. To provide a physiological comparison, age-, sex- and BMI-matched control participants completed one study where they consumed the same meal but received no exogenous insulin. Glucose, insulin, vascular function (including ultrasound measures of myocardial and skeletal muscle microvascular perfusion, aortic stiffness, brachial artery endothelial function) and biomarkers of systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction were assessed at baseline and then 2 h after meal ingestion within each protocol. The primary outcome was change in myocardial MBF within each protocol. Study personnel assessing outcomes were masked to group assignment. RESULTS: Eighteen people with type 1 diabetes and 18 matched control participants were analysed within each protocol. Glucose area under the curve was significantly greater (p=0.015) in the postmeal insulin study compared with the premeal insulin study in participants with type 1 diabetes. Myocardial microvascular flow velocity significantly increased (p=0.031) with premeal insulin administration in people with type 1 diabetes and this consequently led to greater myocardial MBF (p=0.044). There were no changes in myocardial MBF within the other protocols. Changes in vital signs were similar between all protocols. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: Appropriately timed premeal insulin led to lower postprandial blood glucose along with increased myocardial MBF in people with type 1 diabetes. Further work is needed to determine the underlying aetiology of these changes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04730882.

Humans

Stratified medicine with eplerenone for myocardial infarction or injury and no obstructive coronary arteries: A registry-based basket trial.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial Infarction with No Obstructive Coronary Arteries (MINOCA) or Nonischemic Myocardial Injury affects approximately 1 in 9 patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, yet evidence-based therapies are lacking. Coronary microvascular dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of suspected MINOCA, but its prevalence, prognostic implications and treatment are uncertain. The objectives are, first, to assess the prevalence of coronary microvascular dysfunction in patients with suspected MINOCA and, second, to implement endotype-informed stratified medicine involving patients with coronary microvascular dysfunction to treatment with eplerenone, a cardio- and vasculo-protective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. METHODS: This is a prospective, registry-based, multicenter, diagnostic study and nested, randomized, controlled, open-label, blinded-endpoint (PROBE) basket trial. Up to 400 patients with clinically suspected MINOCA and one or more cardiovascular risk factors will be enrolled into a registry-based diagnostic study. Coronary microvascular function will be assessed during invasive angiography using thermodilution. Patients with an index of coronary microvascular resistance (IMR) &#x2265; 25 will be randomized 1:1 to eplerenone (25-50 mg daily for 6 months) or standard care without eplerenone (control group) (n = 150 randomized). Final endotypes will be centrally adjudicated by a panel of blinded cardiologists. The primary outcome of the diagnostic study is the proportion of patients with IMR &#x2265; 25 during index coronary angiography. Secondary outcomes include coronary flow reserve, cardiovascular MRI parameters, patient-reported outcome measures, biomarkers of myocardial fibrosis and vascular inflammation, health outcomes and health economic assessments. The primary outcome of the randomized trial is the within-individual change in NT-proBNP at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months, based on intention-to-treat. Secondary outcomes include mechanistic blood biomarkers and patient-reported outcome measures. VALUE: This registry-based randomized trial will provide novel evidence on endotype-informed secondary prevention therapy with eplerenone for suspected MINOCA.

Humans

Human iPSC-EV-loaded nanofiber stent coatings accelerate vascular repair by enhancing EGFR/HIF-1&#x3b1; signaling and suppressing ROCK1-mediated remodeling.

Arterial disease management is shifting from antiproliferative drug-eluting stents toward approaches that restore endothelial function and modulate smooth muscle cell (SMC) behavior. Stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) carry miRNAs that promote endothelial proliferation and migration while restraining aberrant SMC growth and inflammation. Here, human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived EVs were collected by ultracentrifugation and incorporated into 50:50 poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA 503) core-shell nanofibrous membranes, which were fabricated as stent coatings for sustained release to overcome rapid clearance and poor tissue retention. EVs derived from three independent iPSC lines all enhanced tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) under hypoxic and serum-starved conditions and revealed a trend toward reduced platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced smooth muscle cell (SMC) migration. The fabricated core-shell nanofibers enabled sustained EV release, maintaining therapeutic efficacy for 28 days. Small RNA sequencing (NGS) analysis demonstrated that EVs from these independent iPSC lines shared miR-148a-3p and members of the miR-92 family, which collectively accounted for more than 75% of the reads within the 25 top-expressed miRNA set. In vitro, iPSC-EVs enhanced HUVEC proliferation and survival signaling by downregulating the negative regulators ERRFI1 and VHL, which are specific targets of miR-148a-3p and the miR-92 family, thereby activating the EGFR and HIF-1&#x3b1; axes and driving downstream ERK1/2 and VEGF expression under hypoxic and serum starvation stress conditions. Concurrently, iPSC-EVs prevented PDGF-BB-induced SMC phenotypic switching by downregulating ROCK1, a target of miR-148a-3p, thereby inhibiting downstream AKT and ERK signaling and preserving contractile markers while suppressing the synthetic phenotype. In vivo, the iPSC-EV-functionalized scaffolds significantly accelerated re-endothelialization and inhibited neointimal hyperplasia, evidenced by the upregulation of angiogenic factors (VEGF, CD31) and the concurrent suppression of pathological remodeling markers (&#x3b1;-SMA, MMPs) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TGF-&#x3b2;1). Therefore, iPSC-EVs enriched with specific miRNAs and delivered via PLGA 503 core-shell nanofibers promote endothelial repair while suppressing SMC overgrowth, providing a promising strategy for vascular healing.

Core-shell nanofibers

Cochlear Implantation in Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review of Feasibility and Outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with systemic complications, including sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) from microvascular occlusion and chronic inflammation. Although reports link SCD to higher rates of SNHL, current evidence is limited by small sample size, varied audiologic methods, and lack of standardized screening. This systematic review summarizes available literature on SNHL and cochlear implantation (CI) in SCD. METHODS: A literature search of PubMed MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL identified 79 citations. After removal of duplicates, 35 records were screened in Rayyan. Studies published between January 1, 2000, and June 30, 2025, were eligible if they reported patients with SCD who developed hearing loss and underwent CI. Nine full texts were reviewed, and 4 met the inclusion criteria. Screening and review were performed independently by 2 authors per PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: Across 4 case reports, a total of 5 patients with SCD underwent CI, ranging in age from 2 to 42 years. Four presented with bilateral severe-to-profound SNHL and one with unilateral loss. Implantation was technically feasible in all cases, including patients with cochlear fibrosis or ossification requiring modified insertion techniques. Postoperative outcomes were favorable: all patients demonstrated reliable device function and low impedances. Only 60% showed meaningful auditory benefit, characterized by improved functional speech perception in 2 patients (40%) and access to the speech frequency range with hearing testing going from moderate/profound hearing loss to mild hearing loss in 3 patients (60%). Complications occurred in 2 patients (40%): one developed unilateral middle ear infection leading to meningitis, and another experienced a postoperative pulmonary embolism requiring anticoagulation. The remaining 3 patients (60%) had uncomplicated recoveries with reported improved hearing from moderate/profound hearing loss to mild hearing loss post implantation. CONCLUSION: While CI appears feasible in SCD, our findings suggest that additional data are needed to assess its effectiveness in this patient population. However, evidence is limited to case reports, and complications such as thromboembolism and rapid cochlear fibrosis highlight the need for close perioperative management. More comprehensive studies with larger sample size are required to define surgical risk, optimize management, and establish best practices for timely implantation in this population.

Humans

Prevalence of Slowly Expanding Lesions in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic active lesions (CALs) reflect chronic inflammation in multiple sclerosis (MS). Slowly expanding lesions (SELs) are CALs identified on conventional MRI by linear, concentric expansion over time, while paramagnetic rim lesions (PRLs) are CALs characterized by a paramagnetic rim on susceptibility-sensitive MRI. However, the prevalence of SELs and their overlap with PRLs remain unclear. The aims of this study were to (1) estimate the proportion of SELs among all T2 lesions and the proportion of patients with at least 1 SEL and (2) assess the proportion of SELs overlapping with PRLs. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase on February 1, 2026, for studies evaluating SELs in MS. At least 2 authors independently assessed study eligibility. Primary outcomes were the pooled proportion of SELs among T2 lesions and the proportion of patients with at least 1 SEL. We estimated mean per-patient volumes of SELs and total T2 lesions and the proportion of SELs overlapping with PRLs. Random-effects generalized linear mixed-effects models and inverse-variance methods were used, with between-study heterogeneity assessed using &#x3c4;2 and I2 and robustness using sensitivity analyses. Univariable meta-regression explored heterogeneity. PROSPERO: CRD42024603778. RESULTS: Of 5,980 records, 20 studies comprising 4,786 patients with MS were included (mean age: 43.6 &#xb1; 6.3 years; 63.7% female). Sample sizes varied by outcome. SELs accounted for 14% (95% CI 10-21) of all T2 lesions, and 78% (67-85) of patients had at least 1 SEL. After sensitivity analysis, per-patient mean volumes were 1.42 mL (0.79-2.06) for SELs and 10.6 mL (8.53-12.67) for total T2 lesions. In total, 11% (6-20) of SELs overlapped with PRLs. In subgroup analyses, proportions of SELs were similar in relapsing-remitting and progressive MS (15%), but the proportion of patients with at least 1 SEL was higher in progressive MS. Between-study heterogeneity was high across analyses with no significant sources identified. DISCUSSION: Although SELs represent a minority of T2 lesions, most patients have at least 1 SEL and a subset overlaps with PRLs, suggesting a partial correspondence between these 2 imaging markers of chronic inflammatory activity. Limitations include possible publication bias, high unexplained heterogeneity, differences in SEL identification methods, and differences in MRI time point number/timing.

Humans

In vivo genome-wide CRISPR screens identify FOXR1 as a suppressor of CD8+ T cell antitumor immunity.

T cell dysfunction critically limits the efficacy of T cell-based immunotherapies in solid tumors, yet the intrinsic regulators of T cell dysfunction remain incompletely understood. Through an in vivo genome-wide CRISPR screen in tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells, we identified Forkhead Box R1 (FOXR1) as a potent transcriptional suppressor of CD8+ T cell effector functions. Genetic ablation of FOXR1 significantly enhanced cytokine production and cytotoxic capacity in both murine and human CD8+ T cells, whereas its overexpression impaired T cell activation and effector molecule expression. Mechanistically, multiomics integration of RNA-seq, CUT&Tag-seq, and ATAC-seq revealed that FOXR1 binds directly to promoter regions of key effector genes, including IL2, GZMB, and PRF1, and represses their expression. Importantly, FOXR1 deletion in human anti-CD19 CAR T cells improved their efficacy against solid tumors, demonstrating that FOXR1 is a checkpoint of T cell effector function and targeting FOXR1 is a promising strategy to enhance CAR T cell efficacy against solid tumors.

Animals

Design of an innovative framework based hybrid catalyst for simultaneous and sensitive monitoring of food additive and preservative of vanillin and nitrite in direct samples.

As vanillin (VAN) and nitrite (NIT) contamination in the food chain poses substantial threats to environmental and public health, rapid and portable detection is essential. The present study presents the first electrochemical sensor report based on a hybrid composite of Ni-TPA-MOF and MoS2/Co3O4. The oxidation of VAN and NIT exhibited sharp peaks and less over-potential on Ni-TPA-MOF/MoS2/Co3O4/GCE than on control electrode surfaces. On modified composite electrode surfaces, pH and scan rate were investigated for VAN and NIT. Further, the oxidation current exhibited high linearity at VAN and NIT concentrations of 5&#xa0;nM-1000&#xa0;&#x3bc;M and 3&#xa0;nM-1250&#xa0;&#x3bc;M, with detection limits of 0.102&#xa0;nM and 0.073&#xa0;nM (S/N&#xa0;=&#xa0;3). We also applied anti-interfering ability (five/ten-fold excess of co-interfering compounds) and practical tests to various food-based real samples, with high recoveries of 98.85-102.41%. This study highlights the catalytic properties of Ni-TPA-MOF/MoS2/Co3O4 and demonstrates the sensor as a promising tool for food safety.

Benzaldehydes