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Machine learning-ready genomic biomarkers: ATF3 polymorphisms predict postoperative analgesic demand through AI-compatible phenotyping.

PURPOSE: To determine whether ATF3 polymorphisms can serve as genetic biomarkers for machine learning-based precision analgesia by establishing a genotype-phenotype association suitable for predictive modeling of postoperative opioid requirements. METHODS: In a prospective cohort of 167 adults undergoing abdominal surgery, ATF3 SNPs rs3122721 and rs3125293 were genotyped. A structured dataset architecture was developed to represent genetic profiles as input features for supervised learning models, enabling translational analysis of genotype‑dependent opioid consumption over 72 h. RESULTS: Patients with homozygous genotypes of the ATF3 SNPs had significantly higher opioid requirements than non‑carriers, despite reporting similar subjective pain scores. This consistent genotype‑dependent pattern provided a clinically relevant phenotype suitable for integration into predictive algorithms. CONCLUSION: ATF3 genotyping offers a promising biomarker for computationally informed precision analgesia. By linking genomic variability to clinically meaningful outcomes within a structured clinical and genomic framework, this approach supports the future development of risk-stratified clinical decision-support systems to optimize postoperative pain management.Trial registration ChiCTR1900021991, registered 30 April 2019. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at https://doi.org/10.1007/s13755-026-00480-9.

ATF3

Pairwise Comparative Safety and Effectiveness of Anti-TNF Blockers, Vedolizumab, and Ustekinumab During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: Biologic therapies, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers, vedolizumab (VDZ), and ustekinumab (UST), are generally considered safe during pregnancy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), though comparative data remain limited. This meta-analysis examines their safety and effectiveness. METHODS: A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Web of Science was conducted through July 2025. Eligible studies reported maternal or neonatal outcomes in pregnant IBD patients treated with biologics. Studies were pooled using a random-effects model to calculate risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2. Primary outcomes were preterm birth and disease activity; secondary outcomes included pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. RESULTS: Nine observational studies (n = 6,054) were included. Compared to TNF blockers, VDZ was associated with a higher risk of preterm delivery (RR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.04-1.75, I2 = 0%) and active disease (RR = 1.55, 95% CI 1.01-2.40, I2 = 50%). UST was associated with a higher risk of active disease (RR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.06-1.60, I2 = 0%) and congenital anomalies (RR = 2.08, 95% CI 1.30-3.32, I2 = 0%) compared to TNF blockers. Compared to UST, VDZ was linked to increased risks of preterm birth (RR = 2.60, 95% CI 1.03-6.57, I2 = 0%) and low birth weight (RR = 2.38, 95% CI 1.01-5.60, I2 = 0%). No significant differences were observed for live births, abortions, hospitalizations, or neonatal infections. CONCLUSION: TNF blockers showed a favorable safety and effectiveness profile, VDZ and UST performed broadly similar, and all three biological classes appeared compatible with safe use in pregnancy to maintain effective disease control. Observed differences reflect that VDZ and UST cohorts likely had longer disease duration, prior biologic exposure, and more active disease. The results of this meta-analysis support the continuation of biologic therapy for disease control in pregnant patients with IBD. Treatment decisions should be individualized and tailored to each patient's clinical context.

Female

Healthcare transition readiness in an adolescent and young adult urologic population: The ADHERENT study.

INTRODUCTION: There is a paucity of research regarding transition to adult services within pediatric and adolescent urology. Several recent articles have discussed the barriers in transitioning urologic patients from pediatric to adult health care, but empiric data that may drive intervention are lacking. This study proposes to begin to address this gap in literature and to provide information that may lead to improved understanding of how best to support transition in urologic care. OBJECTIVES: 1) to identify modifiable and non-modifiable factors related to transition readiness as measured by Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) scores in a congenital urologic population and 2) to evaluate the relationships between TRAQ scores (a validated questionnaire measuring transition readiness) and scores measuring anxiety levels related to transition (using an adapted, non-validated questionnaire). STUDY DESIGN: This is a cross-sectional study of adolescent and young adult patients with complex congenital urologic diagnoses. Subjects were electronically administered the validated TRAQ and a study-developed ADHERENT survey, which assesses anxiety and worry surrounding transition. Regression models for the outcomes of the TRAQ and ADHERENT scales were developed to assess multivariable associations with variables of clinical importance. RESULTS: The youngest subgroup (14-17 years of age) compared to the oldest subgroup (21-25 years of age) had significantly lower TRAQ scores [regression estimate = 12.3 (95 % CI: 2.9, 21.7), p = 0.010]. Additionally, single participants versus those in a stable relationship had significantly lower TRAQ scores [estimate = 8.7 (95 % CI: 1.9, 15.4), p = 0.012]. The Spearman correlation coefficient between TRAQ and ADHERENT scores was 0.52 (p = <0.001), indicating a positive, moderate relationship between the two measures, suggesting more readiness correlated with less anxiety. DISCUSSION: This study found that age, higher education, and stable relationship status were associated with higher measures of transition readiness. There was a correlation found between more transition readiness and less anxiety surrounding transition. This finding can be used to inform future research and emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary support throughout the transition process. CONCLUSION: Early discussion of transition of care and education around transition readiness are not the only solution to improving transition success. The second phase of ADHERENT seeks to understand the patient experience and to include adolescents and young adults in shaping effective healthcare transition strategies.

Humans

Optimized AAV5-RPGR ORF15 Gene Therapy Rescues Photoreceptor Structure and Function in X-Linked Retinitis Pigmentosa Mouse Model.

PURPOSE: To develop and evaluate an rAAV5-based gene therapy vector expressing an optimized human RPGR ORF15 transgene (rAAV5-RPGR) for the treatment of X-linked retinitis pigmentosa caused by RPGR mutations, addressing the challenges of cloning the unstable wild-type ORF15 sequence. DESIGN: This was a prospective experimental study. SUBJECTS: This was an animal study. METHODS: An optimized RPGR ORF15 sequence was designed to eliminate problematic secondary structures and cryptic splice sites. In vitro expression was validated in HEK 293T and photoreceptor-like 661 W cells. A complete Rpgr knockout mouse model (Rpgr-knockout [KO]) was generated and characterized phenotypically. Therapeutic efficacy was assessed in Rpgr-KO mice via subretinal injection of rAAV5-RPGR at low (1 &#xd7; 10&#x2079; vg/eye), medium (3 &#xd7; 10&#x2079; vg/eye), or high (1 &#xd7; 10&#xb9;&#x2070; vg/eye) doses. Structural and functional outcomes were evaluated at 12- and 14-month postinjection. Short-term safety was assessed in rabbits 1 month after subretinal injection. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Level of RPGR protein expression and Protein isoform profile (elimination of truncated isoforms), Cellular localization of transgene expression and Dose-dependence of expression, outer nuclear layer thickness, and electroretinography parameters. RESULTS: (1) The optimized vector increased RPGR protein expression 3.3-fold in vitro compared to wild-type and eliminated truncated isoforms. (2) Subretinal delivery of rAAV5-RPGR in mice demonstrated dose-dependent transgene expression localized correctly to photoreceptor inner segments. (3) In Rpgr-KO mice, high-dose treatment significantly preserved outer nuclear layer thickness at the injection site (42% greater than controls at 14 months, P < .01) and central retina (P < .05), reduced aberrant rhodopsin mislocalization (P < .01), and partially restored retinal function. ERG showed significantly improved scotopic a-wave (&#x2265;100 vs <90 &#xb5;V in controls at 10 cd&#xb7;s/m&#xb2;) and photopic b-wave amplitudes (49-66 vs 31-46 &#xb5;V at 30 cd&#xb7;s/m&#xb2;) in treated mice. (4) No vector-related toxicity was observed in rabbits. CONCLUSIONS: rAAV5-RPGR mediated efficiently, targeted expression of optimized RPGR-ORF15, significantly preserved photoreceptor structure and function in a severe X-linked retinitis pigmentosa mouse model, and demonstrated a favorable safety profile. This study provides preclinical proof-of-concept for RPGR-targeted gene replacement therapy.

Animals

Context matters: coordinated transcriptional regulation and root plasticity under multinutrient conditions.

Plants often encounter simultaneous imbalances in multiple nutrients, but the regulatory logic coordinating their responses remains poorly understood. We aimed to uncover shared transcriptional programs and regulatory nodes underpinning multinutrient adaptation in Arabidopsis thaliana roots. We analyzed publicly available RNA-seq datasets spanning 15 nutrient and beneficial element conditions using differential expression, co-expression network (WGCNA), and gene regulatory network analysis. Selected transcription factors (TFs) were validated via root phenotyping, suberin staining, and ionomic profiling under two-nutrient stress conditions. We identified a core set of 2050 genes responsive to multiple nutrient treatments, enriched for suberin biosynthesis, and structured into modular co-expression clusters. Eight prioritized candidate TFs (ARR10, GBF3, HHO5, NAC32, NF-YA3, NF-YB2, SARD1, and WRKY33) were&#xa0;shown to modulate root system architecture under specific nutrient combinations. WRKY33 and NF-YB2, in particular, regulated nutrient-responsive suberin deposition and ionomic plasticity. These findings reveal suberin remodeling as a shared downstream process in multinutrient responses and suggest that plasticity is not a fixed trait but a modular, polygenic, and context-dependent outcome. Repurposed TFs with pleiotropic functions coordinate structural and physiological traits, providing regulatory entry points for improving nutrient resilience.

Plant Roots

Impact of oxytocin discontinuation on fetal heart rate and uterine contractility: A pre-specified ancillary analysis embedded within a randomized trial.

INTRODUCTION: Oxytocin is widely used to augment uterine contractions during labor. However, its use has been associated with fetal heart rate (FHR) abnormalities and neonatal morbidity, which may be reduced by discontinuing oxytocin during labor. We aimed to assess the impact of oxytocin discontinuation at the onset of the active phase of labor on FHR patterns and uterine contractility. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study is a pre-specified ancillary analysis of the STOPOXY trial, a multicenter, randomized, open-label, controlled superiority trial conducted in 21 French maternity units between January 2020 and January 2022, which aimed to assess the impact of oxytocin discontinuation during active labor on neonatal morbidity. Participants who received oxytocin before 4&#x2009;cm dilation were randomly assigned (1:1) to either oxytocin discontinuation or oxytocin continuation. For the present analysis, we included women from the per-protocol discontinuation group of the parent trial. Inclusion was restricted to the six centers with electronic cardiotocography storage where valid cardiotocography recordings were available for at least 1&#x2009;h before and 1&#x2009;h after oxytocin discontinuation. Using a paired before-and-after design, FHR parameters (classified according to FIGO criteria) and uterine activity were compared during the 60&#x2009;min preceding versus the 60&#x2009;min following oxytocin discontinuation by independent obstetricians blinded to neonatal outcomes. Changes in FHR pattern were categorized as no change, improvement, or deterioration. RESULTS: 284 women fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Following oxytocin discontinuation, mean FHR increased (135 vs. 137.5&#x2009;bpm; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.002) and FHR variability significantly changed (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.010), with a lower rate of reduced variability (3.9% vs. 2.5%) and a higher rate of normal variability (48.2% vs. 53.3%). The proportion of tracings with decelerations significantly decreased (64.1% vs. 48.6%; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). Uterine activity decreased, with fewer uterine contractions (4.0 vs. 3.5 contractions per 10&#x2009;min; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Among women receiving oxytocin during early labor, discontinuation at the onset of the active phase was associated with improved FHR patterns and reduced uterine activity, suggesting a lower fetal stress and tachysystole. Further studies are needed to assess whether these changes affect labor management or maternal experience.

Humans

Comparison of three tracking methods to assess usage of two pediatric powered mobility devices for young children with cerebral palsy.

Powered mobility devices are underutilized for promoting self-initiated mobility in young children with cerebral palsy due to prioritization of walking, caregiver effort, device characteristics, and environmental factors. Understanding device usage patterns is important to assess the impact of powered mobility interventions on child outcomes. As part of clinical trial (NCT04684576), three objective tracking methods including integrated loggers, Global Positioning System trackers (GPST), and caregiver reported activity logs (CRAL) were compared to provide insights into device usage patterns. Metrics included play session frequency, session duration, total usage minutes, and unique usage days for two powered mobility devices: Modified Ride-on Cars (MROC) and the Permobil Explorer Mini (EM). Twelve children with cerebral palsy used each device for eight consecutive weeks in home and community settings (16&#x2009;weeks total), with device ordered randomized. Results showed no significant differences among tracking methods for the MROC. For the EM, only session duration differed between GPST and CRAL. Correlation analysis revealed variable relationships amongst tracking methods for both devices. The EM was used more frequently than the MROC, with significantly greater total usage minutes and session duration via CRAL, not GPST. The findings highlight the need for reliable tracking technologies that can be used across powered mobility devices.

Child, Preschool

Effect of Local Anesthetic Solution at Different Temperatures for Epidural Labor Analgesia on Intrapartum Fever: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Whether heating local anesthetic solutions to core body temperature (37&#xb0;C) for epidural labor analgesia reduces intrapartum fever incidence remains undefined in the current literature. METHODS: This double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 220 nulliparous parturients (18-35 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] physical status II, term singleton pregnancy). Participants were randomized to receive epidural labor analgesia with 0.075% ropivacaine + 0.5 &#xb5;g/mL sufentanil at 37&#xb0;C (warmed group) or 22&#xb0;C (room-temperature group). Epidurals were placed at L3-L4 with a test dose of 3 mL of 1.5% lidocaine at room temperature, followed by programmed bolus epidural analgesia (initial 10 mL, 10 mL/h) and patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) 5 mL (30-minute lockout). Tympanic temperature was measured every 30 minutes from epidural initiation to delivery, defining intrapartum fever as &#x2265;38&#xb0;C. The primary outcome was fever incidence, on which the power analysis was based, and also maximum temperature and shivering. Secondary outcomes comprised analgesia onset, block level, labor durations, neonatal Apgar scores, umbilical cord blood pH and BE, and maternal adverse events. RESULTS: A total of 220 parturients were included (warmed group, n = 110; room-temperature group, n = 110). The warmed group had a lower intrapartum fever incidence (15.5% [17/110] vs 30.9% [34/110], relative risk [RR] 0.5 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.298-0.840]; P = .007); however, the reduction of 49.8% did not reach the preset clinically meaningful difference of 60% reduction proposed in the power analysis. The maximum body temperature was also lower in the warmed group: median (interquartile range [IQR]) 37.4 (IQR, 37.2-37.7) &#xb0;C vs 37.6 (IQR, 37.3-38.0) &#xb0;C, median difference -0.2 (95% CI, -0.3 to -0.1) &#xb0;C ( P = .006). Shivering incidence was not different between groups (10.9% [12/110] vs 14.5% [16/110]; P = .418). No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in any of the secondary outcomes assessed, including block characteristics, local anesthetic consumption, labor duration, neonatal outcomes, and maternal adverse events. CONCLUSION: Although we found a 50% reduction in the incidence of temperature rise using warmed (37&#xb0;C) local anesthetics for epidural labor analgesia, this did not reach our preset threshold of 60% reduction.

Humans

Artificial intelligence enabled social robotic interventions (PARO) in Australian dementia care: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Although there is a growing body of research indicating that Personal Robot/Social Robot could be used in various aspects of care for individuals with dementia, little is known about how well these types of interventions work in an actual hospital setting in Australia. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: The objective of the present systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the effectiveness of PARO-based socially assistive robotic intervention in terms of its effectiveness outcomes towards the reduction of dementia-related behavioural and psychological symptoms in Australian based healthcare settings. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across five electronic databases, including MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library, to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating PARO-based socially assistive robotic interventions for dementia in Australian healthcare settings. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251251916) and followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. In addition, the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (RoB 2) was used to evaluate the risk of bias across all studies. Pooled standardised mean differences (SMD) with 95&#xa0;% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for agitation, anxiety, and depression. Heterogeneity across studies was evaluated using the I2 statistic. RESULTS: Six RCTs involving 1444 participants were identified for inclusion in this review. AI-enabled socially assistive robotic interventions, specifically the PARO therapeutic robot, significantly reduced agitation and anxiety when compared to standard treatment or control conditions. The pooled analysis showed that agitation [SMD&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.44 (95&#xa0;% CI: -0.70, -0.18) p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.0008] and anxiety [SMD&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.59 (95&#xa0;% CI: -0.91, -0.27) p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.0003] were reduced significantly, while the decrease in depression [SMD&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.44 (95&#xa0;% CI: -0.95, -0.07) p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.09] scores was non-significant among dementia patients receiving PARO-based socially assistive robotic interventions as compared to the control. The overall risk of bias across all six studies was considered low to moderate. CONCLUSION: PARO-based socially assistive robotic interventions may provide preliminary evidence of effectiveness in reducing agitation and anxiety in individuals with dementia in Australian healthcare, but the evidence regarding the reduction of depression remains unclear. Therefore, additional high-quality trials with consistent methodology and extended follow-up will be necessary to determine both the short-term and long-term clinical efficacy and practicality of implementing these interventions into practice.

Humans

Efficacy of a self-guided online resilience intervention for improving mental health among university students: A randomized controlled trial.

Epidemiological data indicates that university students are an at-risk population for the development of mental disorders. Online interventions have been proposed as promising tools for reducing barriers to treatment and establishing easily accessible health-care services promoting mental health and resilience. This study investigated the efficacy of a Learning Management System (LMS)-based self-guided online resilience intervention. 216 university students took part in a randomized controlled trial with an intervention and a waitlist control group and three measurement points (pre, post and follow-up). We conducted per-protocol (PP) and intention-to-treat (ITT) analyses with mental distress as primary outcome, and self-reported resilience and resilience factors as secondary outcomes. Further, attitudes towards online interventions, adherence, satisfaction and possible negative effects were explored. Satisfaction with the intervention was high and PP analyses (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;150) revealed significant improvements in mental distress and self-compassion at post-test and acceptance at follow-up. No favourable effects were found for self-reported resilience and resilience factors. Adherence was low and ITT analyses revealed no significant effects. Overall, the study provides preliminary evidence for the LMS-based self-guided online intervention as a potentially valuable tool for university mental health services under optimal adherence conditions. Further research into determinants of adherence is needed to improve intervention reach.

Humans

Influence of microplastics on microalgal performance during wastewater polishing.

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants that are increasingly accumulating in aquatic ecosystems due to excessive anthropogenic activity and insufficient mitigation strategies, posing serious environmental and public health risks. Their impact on wastewater (WW) treatment processes remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the effects of five MPs commonly found in WW - polypropylene, polystyrene, polyamide, low-density polyethylene, and high-density polyethylene - on the physiology and bioremediation performance of the microalga Chlorella vulgaris in synthetic WW (SWW). Metabolic responses were assessed via esterase activity and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), while nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and glucose removal were monitored to evaluate bioremediation efficiency. MPs inhibited esterase activity and elevated ROS levels, indicating oxidative stress. Nevertheless, C. vulgaris maintained a high bioremediation capacity (> 75 % N, > 60 % P, and > 70 % for glucose). Environmental conditions modulated microalga response to MPs exposure. Under N-limited conditions, C. vulgaris exhibited enhanced nutrient uptake and biomass production, but a 12 h/12 h light/dark photoperiod reduced N removal but stimulated glucose consumption via heterotrophic metabolism. In contrast, C-limited conditions exacerbated oxidative stress and compromised nutrient removal, resulting in residual concentrations exceeding legal limits. These findings highlight that environmental factors can either mitigate or exacerbate the physiological stress induced by MPs, ultimately affecting WW polishing. This work provides a comprehensive insight into the cellular and metabolic effects of MPs on microalgae and supports C. vulgaris as a resilient and sustainable approach for nutrient and carbon removal in MP-contaminated WW systems.

Microalgae

Risk factors for bleeding after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: ERCP is associated with adverse events, including bleeding, which occurs in up to 1.3% of cases. This meta-analysis aims to identify and quantify risk factors associated with post-ERCP bleeding. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of electronic databases was conducted from inception to January 10, 2025. Studies were eligible if they used multivariate analysis to identify predictors of post-ERCP bleeding. Risk factors reported in at least 2 studies were pooled using a random-effects model to calculate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs. A further subgroup analysis was performed, including risk factors for postsphincterotomy bleeding and postendoscopic papillectomy bleeding. RESULTS: Twenty-seven studies (4 prospective and 23 retrospective studies) comprising 149,870 patients were included, of whom 1865 experienced post-ERCP bleeding. Twenty potential risk factors were analyzed. The meta-analysis identified several factors significantly associated with increased odds of post-ERCP bleeding in the pooled adjusted analysis, including male gender (OR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.05-1.46), anticoagulation therapy (OR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.66-4.56), cirrhosis (OR, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.76-3.65), hemodialysis (OR, 5.82; 95% CI, 3.32-10.18), coagulopathy (OR, 11.01; 95% CI, 2.50-48.40), endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) (OR, 3.19; 95% CI, 1.69-6.01), precut sphincterotomy (OR, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.52-3.30), and intraoperative bleeding (OR, 2.57; 95% CI, 1.80-3.66). Several factors in the pooled adjusted analysis were not found to be significantly associated with higher odds of post-ERCP bleeding, including high body mass index (BMI), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use, antiplatelet therapy, thrombocytopenia, common bile duct stones, cholangitis, endoscopic papillary balloon dilatation, and covered self-expandable metal stent insertion. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis identified that the anticoagulation therapy, cirrhosis, hemodialysis, coagulation disorder, EST, precut sphincterotomy, and male gender are associated with increased odds of post-ERCP bleeding in the pooled adjusted analysis. Conversely, age, high BMI, cholangitis, choledocholithiasis, pancreatic duct stones, needle-knife sphincterotomy, NSAID use, and antiplatelet therapy were not significantly associated with higher odds of post-ERCP bleeding in the pooled adjusted analysis. Incorporating our results into a prediction model may assist in identifying patients at increased risk, optimizing informed consent, and guiding prevention and management strategies for post-ERCP bleeding.

Humans

Associations between prescribed amphetamines and spontaneous cervical artery dissection: a matched case-control study.

AIMS: To assess whether prescribed amphetamines are associated with spontaneous cervical artery dissection (sCeAD), an important cause of stroke in young adults. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective matched case-control study within a large academic health system in Chicago, Illinois. Adults aged 18-85&#xa0;years with incident sCeAD were matched 1:4 to controls without dissection on age, sex, and race/ethnicity. The primary exposure was documented amphetamine prescription. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) controlling for relevant vascular and clinical covariates. Sensitivity analyses included strict matched-strata and inverse probability-weighted models. RESULTS: Among 11,463 individuals, including 2,293 cases and 9,170 controls, amphetamine exposure was associated with higher odds of sCeAD (adjusted OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.18-2.46). Results were unchanged in strictly matched strata (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.18-2.46) and remained directionally consistent after inverse probability weighting (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.09-1.79). High-dose amphetamine exposure (&#x2265;30&#xa0;mg/day) had the strongest association (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.18-3.26), whereas low-dose exposure was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Prescribed amphetamines were associated with modestly increased odds of sCeAD. While these findings are observational and hypothesis-generating, they may support a possible association in susceptible patients.

Humans

Overcoming Immunological Barriers in MSC-Derived Insulin-Producing Cells through CRISPR-Based Hypoimmunogenic Engineering and Translational Perspectives for Type 1 Diabetes.

Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-derived insulin-producing cells (IPCs) represent an emerging strategy for &#x3b2;-cell replacement in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) owing to their differentiation potential, intrinsic immunomodulatory properties, and lower tumorigenic risk compared with pluripotent stem cell-derived platforms. However, accumulating evidence indicates that differentiation-associated immunogenicity, context-dependent immune recognition, and recurrent autoimmune responses may substantially limit long-term graft survival and therapeutic durability following transplantation. This review critically examines the immunological barriers associated with MSC-derived IPCs, including altered MHC expression, susceptibility to alloimmune and autoimmune-mediated rejection, and potential reactivation of autoreactive immune memory. We discuss the application of CRISPR-based hypoimmunogenic engineering strategies targeting antigen presentation pathways, NK-cell activation, and immune checkpoint modulation to generate more immune-evasive MSC-derived IPCs while preserving &#x3b2;-cell functionality. By integrating insights from T1DM immunopathogenesis, MSC biology, genome editing, and translational immunology, we propose a framework linking immune engineering with controlled differentiation, functional maturation, and long-term safety evaluation. In parallel, we comparatively position MSC-derived IPCs alongside clinically advancing iPSC-derived &#x3b2;-cell platforms to highlight their distinct translational niche, including potential advantages related to safety, immunomodulatory capacity, manufacturing accessibility, and scalability, while acknowledging the superior functional maturity and clinical progression currently demonstrated by iPSC-derived systems. Finally, we discuss key translational challenges, including genomic stability, immune-evasion durability, GMP-compliant manufacturing, and the need for rigorous functional and immunological benchmarking prior to clinical application of hypoimmunogenic MSC-derived IPC therapies in T1DM.

Humans

Impact of a thermal care bundle on peri-operative hypothermia, surgical site infection, and readmissions in osteosynthesis patients: A randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Maintaining normothermia throughout the peri-operative period prevents the occurrence of complications related to hypothermia. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of a thermal care bundle with a short prewarming period on inadvertent peri-operative hypothermia (IPH), surgical site infection (SSI), and unplanned readmission among osteosynthesis patients, and to identify associated variables. DESIGN: Open-label, randomised controlled trial. SETTING: University hospital. PATIENTS: One hundred and forty-eight patients who underwent osteosynthesis surgery. INTERVENTION: The intervention group received the thermal care bundle, which consisted in prewarming patients 10&#x200a;min before anaesthesia delivery and maintaining body temperature with a forced air device during surgery and the immediate postoperative period; in addition, the operating room environmental temperature was kept at 21&#x200a;&#xb0;C, and fluids were warmed to 38&#x200a;&#xb0;C. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: For the primary objective, hypothermia was defined as core body temperature below 36&#x200a;&#xb0;C and measured using the 3M Spot On zero heat flux sensor. Core temperature was recorded upon admission to the pre-operative holding area and subsequently every 30&#x200a;min until postanaesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge. Secondary objectives were SSI and readmissions: a follow-up at 30 to 60 and 90&#x200a;days was performed by the principal investigator. RESULTS: All 148 patients completed the study, and there were no significant differences between the groups at baseline. At the start of surgery, the incidence of hypothermia was significantly lower in the bundle group (1.3 vs. 9.9% among controls; odds ratio&#x200a;=&#x200a;7.59, P &#x200a;=&#x200a;0.021). A significantly lower incidence of hypothermia was also observed at admission to the PACU (14.3% in the bundle group vs. 29.6% among controls; odds ratio&#x200a;=&#x200a;2.07; P &#x200a;=&#x200a;0.024). Application of the bundle increased patients' core body temperature by 0.13&#x200a;&#xb0;C (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.003 to 0.254; P &#x200a;=&#x200a;0.045). Patients in the bundle group had a slightly lower observed incidence of wound infections requiring readmission (odds ratio&#x200a;=&#x200a;0.35; 95% CI, 0.04 to 2.92), although this difference was not statistically significant ( P &#x200a;=&#x200a;0.332). CONCLUSIONS: The bundle reduces peri-operative hypothermia by up to 59%, but does not affect on SSI; factors like presurgery hospital stay, operating room and PACU occupancy were identified as risk factors for SSI. REGISTRATION: 21 July 2022: NCT05469958 (Clinical Trials.gov), first recruitment 15 August 2022.

Adult

Glycemic and safety outcomes of the insulin-only bionic pancreas in older adults and individuals with impaired awareness of Hypoglycemia: a post hoc analysis of a randomized pivotal trial.

AIMS: Evaluate the efficacy and safety of iLet Bionic Pancreas (BP) in older adults and individuals with impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH). METHODS: This post hoc analysis used individual participant-level data from the Insulin-Only Bionic Pancreas Pivotal Trial (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;440; NCT04200313). Eligible participants (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;96) with type 1 diabetes, aged&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;60&#xa0;years and/or had IAH (Clarke score&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;4), were randomized to BP with aspart/lispro (BP-Asp/Lis; n&#xa0;=&#xa0;45), BP with fast-acting aspart configuration (BP-Fiasp; n&#xa0;=&#xa0;31), or standard care (SC; n&#xa0;=&#xa0;20) for 13&#xa0;weeks. RESULTS: Compared with SC, time-in-range (70-180&#xa0;mg/dL) significantly increased by 7.49&#xa0;% (95&#xa0;% CI: 2.61 to 12.38; &#x223c;1.8&#xa0;h/day) with BP-Asp/Lis and by 8.28&#xa0;% (95&#xa0;% CI: 3.15 to 13.41; &#x223c;2.0&#xa0;h/day) with BP-Fiasp, driven by reduced hyperglycemia. No significant differences were observed in hypoglycemia exposure. Severe hypoglycemia occurred in four participants (four events) on BP-Asp/Lis and one participant (two events) on SC. One diabetic ketoacidosis event occurred on BP-Fiasp due to an infusion set failure. CONCLUSIONS: In high-risk, clinically vulnerable populations, the BP system significantly improved glycemic control while maintaining safety parity with respect to hypoglycemia risk, providing a resilient therapeutic alternative for vulnerable cohorts.

Humans

The Role of Artificial Intelligence Combined With Digital Cholangioscopy for Indeterminant and Malignant Biliary Strictures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Current endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and cholangioscopic-based diagnostic sampling for indeterminant biliary strictures remain suboptimal. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithms by means of computer vision in machine learning have been applied to cholangioscopy in an effort to improve diagnostic yield. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the diagnostic performance of AI-based diagnostic performance of AI-associated cholangioscopic diagnosis of indeterminant or malignant biliary strictures. METHODS: Individualized searches were developed in accordance with PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines, and meta-analysis according to Cochrane Diagnostic Test Accuracy working group methodology. A bivariate model was used to compute pooled sensitivity and specificity, likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and summary receiver operating characteristics curve (SROC). RESULTS: Five studies (n=675 lesions; a total of 2,685,674 cholangioscopic images) were included. All but one study analyzed a deep learning AI-based system using a convoluted neural network (CNN) with an average image processing speed of 30 to 60 frames per second. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 95% (95% CI: 85-98) and 88% (95% CI: 76-94), with a diagnostic accuracy (SROC) of 97% (95% CI: 95-98). Sensitivity analysis of CNN studies (4 studies, 538 patients) demonstrated a pooled sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy (SROC) of 95% (95% CI: 82-99), 88% (95% CI: 72-95), and 97% (95% CI: 95-98), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Artificial intelligence-based machine learning of cholangioscopy images appears to be a promising modality for the diagnosis of indeterminant and malignant biliary strictures.

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