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Interventions with a significant mortality difference in acute respiratory distress syndrome: A systematic review and comparison with Guidelines.

INTRODUCTION: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has a high mortality rate. European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM) and American Thoracic Society (ATS) Guidelines are the worldwide reference for clinicians in management of ARDS. Mortality represents one of the most important outcomes in intensive care practice and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) the highest level of evidence. We compared Guidelines recommendations with RCT results to highlight differences and find potential new therapeutic opportunities. METHODS: We performed a systematic review of all RCTs reporting a statistically significant mortality difference in ARDS and a subsequent comparison with ESICM and ATS Guidelines recommendations. RESULTS: We identified 33 RCTs and 23 interventions with mortality difference in ARDS patients. Seven interventions relate to invasive ventilation strategies, two to noninvasive ventilation strategies, one to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), 12 to drugs and one to nutritional support. In 25/33 (76%) RCTs the intervention was associated with mortality reduction and in 8/33 with mortality increase (24%). Multicenter studies were 24/33 (73%) while blinding was adopted in 19/33 (58%) studies. Guidelines recommendations supported by RCTs with mortality impact include: the use of low tidal volume ventilation, prone positioning, venovenous ECMO, steroids and the avoidance of high frequency oscillatory ventilation. Eight of the interventions identified were not mentioned by Guidelines but demonstrated reduced mortality, and five further interventions demonstrated increased mortality. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review highlights potential gaps between RCTs results and Guidelines that could be used to plan future research or highlight topics to be discussed in future Guidelines.

Humans

The Brazilian contribution to ant toxinology: challenges and perspectives.

Ant toxinology in Brazil is a small but growing field that has revealed wide biochemical diversity and clear potential for bioprospecting therapeutic molecules. This review compiles the Brazilian contribution, focusing on advances in the characterization of venoms from medically and ecologically important species of Dinoponera, Solenopsis, Paraponera, Pachycondyla, Neoponera, and Ectatomma. Brazilian groups applied omics approaches, including transcriptomics and proteomics, to resolve the composition of these venoms and identified peptide-rich arsenals with antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antitumor, and neuroactive activity. Studies of venom phenotypic plasticity showed ecological factors such as diet and seasonality shape venom composition. Two challenges persist: assigning function to still unidentified components and obtaining venom in the quantities that broad analysis requires. The near-term prospects are the rational design of peptide analogues with improved activity and continued bioprospecting of new species, which together position Brazil as a central contributor to ant toxinology.

Animals

Impact of estimated total blood volume on NT-proBNP response to angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibition in acute heart failure: Insights from the PREMIER study.

BACKGROUND: Sacubitril/valsartan (Sac/Val) reduces N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels in acute heart failure (AHF), particularly in patients with reduced ejection fraction. However, whether estimated total blood volume (TBV), calculated using anthropometric equations, is associated with heterogeneity in biomarker response remains uncertain. METHODS: This post hoc exploratory sub-analysis of the PREMIER randomized trial evaluated whether baseline estimated TBV was associated with heterogeneity in NT-proBNP reduction after Sac/Val compared with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker (ACEI/ARB) therapy. Estimated TBV was calculated using validated anthropometric equations and dichotomized at the median (4.05 L). Patients were further stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF <40% vs &#x2265;40%). The primary endpoint was the proportional change in NT-proBNP from baseline to Week 8. RESULTS: Among 376 patients, 372 with baseline estimated TBV data were analyzed. In the high TBV group, Sac/Val was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction than ACEI/ARB (-56% vs -32%; ratio of change, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.53-0.84; P = .001), whereas no significant difference was observed in the low TBV group (P for heterogeneity = 0.063). In patients with LVEF <40%, Sac/Val was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction in both TBV groups. In patients with LVEF &#x2265;40%, Sac/Val was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction in the high TBV group, whereas the point estimate in the low TBV group numerically favored ACEI/ARB. CONCLUSIONS: In this exploratory post hoc analysis, higher estimated TBV was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction after Sac/Val, particularly among patients with LVEF &#x2265;40%. These findings are hypothesis-generating and require external validation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05164653; Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, jRCTs021210046.

Humans

Herbicolin A, an antifungal lipopeptide produced by Pantoea agglomerans APC 4211 is a promising biocontrol agent against food spoilage fungi.

Fungal contamination of food with yeast and molds is associated with major economic losses due to spoilage and also poses health risks in the form of mycotoxin production. The strain Pantoea agglomerans APC 4211 isolated from leaves of Ilex aquifolium (holly tree) has broad spectrum antifungal activity against a variety of food spoilage fungi. Genomic analysis of the strain confirmed the presence of biosynthetic gene clusters potentially encoding for the enzymatic machinery required for the production of the antifungal lipopeptide herbicolin A. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analysis of the cell-free supernatant (CFS) confirmed the presence of molecular masses corresponding to herbicolin A (1300.8&#xa0;Da), and herbicolin B (1138&#xa0;Da). Purified herbicolin A has desirable properties for biotechnological applications, including potent antifungal activity against a range of spoilage fungi, thermal stability and resistance to proteases. The lipopeptide has low cytotoxicity against epithelial cell lines and has minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) lower than those of some commercial antifungal drugs (0.2-2.5&#xa0;mg/L). In a model dairy system (10% skim milk), herbicolin A demonstrated excellent solubility and stability, effectively eliminating Aspergillus niger and Penicillium notatum at a concentration of 5&#xa0;mg/L. Overall, the study determines herbicolin's A spectrum against food spoilage organisms and examines potential applications in food. In conclusion, herbicolin A is a potent, naturally occurring antifungal agent with the potential to be applied as a biopreservative in food systems, providing a safe, clean-label, and efficient compound for synthetic preservatives replacement.

Pantoea

Assay-dependent variability in peptide biomarker quantification: experimental evidence from renalase in chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: Renalase is a promising biomarker for kidney disease, but published levels vary widely between studies. We hypothesised that variability in commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) kits and matrix effects (serum vs plasma) drive these inconsistencies. METHODS: Paired serum and plasma samples from 56 participants (28 chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 2-5, 28 healthy controls) were tested using three commercial renalase ELISAs (BTLAB, Cloud-Clone, EIAab). We assessed intra-assay precision, inter-assay agreement (Spearman's rank correlation and Bland-Altman analysis on log10-transformed values), matrix effects, and associations with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Diagnostic performance was evaluated by Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. RESULTS: Inter-assay renalase concentrations differed markedly (up to orders of magnitude), with weak inter-assay correlations (r&#x2009;&#x2264;&#x2009;0.25). Bland-Altman analyses revealed large, systematic biases between kits. Only the BTLAB assay showed consistent serum/plasma agreement, a significant correlation with eGFR (&#x3c1;&#x2009;&#x2248;&#x2009;0.32-0.42, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05), and moderate discriminatory performance for CKD in serum (AUC = 0.70) and plasma (AUC = 0.68). Cloud-Clone and EIAab produced divergent results and strong matrix-dependent biases. CONCLUSIONS: Observed variability among commercial ELISA platforms may compromise comparability between studies. Harmonisation, standardised reference materials, and cross-validation are necessary before renalase assays can be used reliably in clinical practice.

Humans

Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Dual GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Inflammatory and Metabolic Biomarkers in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists improve cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but their effects on inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers are not fully defined. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library from inception to 19 February 2026 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in adults with T2DM comparing a GLP-1RA or dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist with placebo or active therapy, and reporting C-reactive protein (CRP or high-sensitivity CRP [hs-CRP]), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-&#x3b1; (TNF-&#x3b1;), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), malondialdehyde (MDA) or adiponectin. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted using standardised mean differences (SMDs). RESULTS: Forty-one RCTs were included. GLP-1RAs significantly reduced CRP/hs-CRP (27 studies, 1991 participants; SMD -0.37, 95% CI -0.59 to -0.14) and MDA (3 studies, 272 participants; SMD -0.98, 95% CI -1.65 to -0.30), and increased adiponectin (16 studies, 1327 participants; SMD 0.30, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.46). Pooled effects on IL-6 (17 studies, 1068 participants; SMD -0.14, 95% CI -0.37 to 0.10), TNF-&#x3b1; (16 studies, 1164 participants; SMD -0.25, 95% CI -0.61 to 0.12) and MCP-1 (7 studies, 450 participants; SMD -0.27, 95% CI -0.58 to 0.03) were not statistically significant, although MCP-1 decreased in sensitivity analyses. Across biomarkers, heterogeneity was moderate to high. Two tirzepatide RCTs (562 participants) showed a significant reduction in IL-6 (SMD -0.28, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.09) and a non-significant trend towards lower CRP/hs-CRP. CONCLUSIONS: In adults with T2DM, incretin-based therapies consistently lower CRP/hs-CRP, reduce oxidative stress (MDA) and increase adiponectin, while effects on IL-6 and TNF-&#x3b1; are more variable. These data support a selective anti-inflammatory and metabolic regulatory profile of GLP-1-based therapy, but heterogeneity and limited data for some biomarkers warrant cautious interpretation and further mechanistic studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO number: CRD420261321430.

Humans

Bipolar circumcision with mucocutaneous plane separation: A safe, precise, blood-sparing, dressing-free approach.

Conventional circumcision techniques may result in bleeding, limited control of the mucosal collar, and the need for dressings. We describe a modified bipolar technique enabling near-bloodless dissection with precise mucosal trimming. Following bipolar division of the preputial skin, the inner mucosa is separated using two forceps and retracted proximally, creating a protective plane for safe skin adjustment. The mucosal collar is trimmed with scissors. The wound is closed with sutures and 2-octyl cyanoacrylate, avoiding dressings. This technique has been performed in 55 consecutive cases (median age: 2 years and 2 months; range: 0 days-17 years and 5 months) with no reported complications over a median follow-up of 2 years and 7 months (range: 3 months-4 years and 1 month).

Humans

Effects of Exergame Balance Training with Variable Cognitive Motor Challenges on Serum BDNF, p-tau181, and Cognitive Functions in Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Trial.

INTRODUCTION: Cognitive-motor exergame balance training may increase attentional demands and neuronal processing, potentially affecting serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), A&#x3b2;1-42, and p-tau181, as well as train cognitive abilities in adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study aimed to compare the effects of exergame balance training of mild, moderate, high-difficulty, and Wii Fit&#x2122; groups on blood serum levels of BDNF, A&#x3b2;1-42, p-tau181, and cognition function in adults with MCI. METHODS: In this four-arm, parallel group randomized clinical trial, 97 adults with MCI were randomly assigned to exergame balance training groups of mild, moderate, high-difficulty, and Wii Fit exergame as a control group. All participants received 40 min/session, 3 times/week for 8 weeks. Assessment of serum levels of p-tau181, A&#x3b2;1-42, BDNF, and cognitive functions was conducted at baseline, after weeks 4 and 8. A mixed-model analysis of covariance was used, with post-baseline measurements (weeks 4 and 8) specified as the within-subject factor and the corresponding baseline value entered as a covariate to adjust for initial between-group variability. RESULTS: A significant group &#xd7; time interaction was found for BDNF, F(3,92) = 6.413, P = 0.017, &#x3b7;p2 = 0.181; p-tau181, F(3,92) = 4.640, P = 0.040, &#x3b7;p2 = 0.138; attention, F(3,92) = 4.171, P = 0.045, &#x3b7;p2 = 0.057; abstraction, F(3,92) = 4.263, P = 0.043, &#x3b7;p2 = 0.058; and visuospatial skills, F(3,92) = 6.931, P < 0.001, &#x3b7;p2 = 0.234. CONCLUSION: Cognitive-motor challenge-based exergame balance training was associated with an increase in serum BDNF, a reduction in p-tau181. In contrast, the A&#x3b2;1-42 levels remained stable. These changes were accompanied by improvement in selective cognitive functions (attention, abstraction, and visuospatial skills) in individuals with MCI. Greater effects were observed in moderate and high-difficulty groups, suggesting the importance of intervention intensity in promoting cognitive and neurobiological outcomes in MCI.

Humans

Efficacy and Safety of iGlarLixi Versus IDegAsp by Baseline Age, Disease Duration and HbA1c in Chinese People With Type 2 Diabetes: Post Hoc Analyses of the Soli-D Study.

AIMS: To compare the efficacy and safety of insulin glargine 100&#x2009;U/mL plus lixisenatide (iGlarLixi) with insulin degludec plus insulin aspart (IDegAsp) by baseline age, Type 2 diabetes (T2D) duration and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in the Soli-D study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In Soli-D, Chinese adults with T2D suboptimally controlled on oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) were randomized to iGlarLixi or IDegAsp for 24&#x2009;weeks. These post hoc analyses evaluated glycaemic efficacy, insulin dose, body weight and hypoglycaemia outcomes in subgroups defined by baseline age (<&#x2009;65, &#x2265;&#x2009;65&#x2009;years), T2D duration (<&#x2009;10, &#x2265;&#x2009;10&#x2009;years) and HbA1c (&#x2265;&#x2009;7% to &#x2264;&#x2009;8% [&#x2265;&#x2009;53 to &#x2264;&#x2009;64&#x2009;mmol/mol], >&#x2009;8% to &#x2264;&#x2009;9% [>&#x2009;64 to &#x2264;&#x2009;75&#x2009;mmol/mol], >&#x2009;9% [>&#x2009;75&#x2009;mmol/mol]). RESULTS: Among 582 participants (iGlarLixi n&#x2009;=&#x2009;291; IDegAsp n&#x2009;=&#x2009;291), baseline age was <&#x2009;65&#x2009;years in 442 and &#x2265;&#x2009;65&#x2009;years in 140; T2D duration was <&#x2009;10&#x2009;years in 366 and &#x2265;&#x2009;10&#x2009;years in 216; and HbA1c was &#x2265;&#x2009;7% to &#x2264;&#x2009;8% in 205, >&#x2009;8% to &#x2264;&#x2009;9% in 209 and >&#x2009;9% in 168. At Week 24, HbA1c reductions were greater with iGlarLixi versus IDegAsp, with no treatment-by-subgroup interactions for baseline age, T2D duration or HbA1c. Change in other glycaemic outcomes, insulin dose and body weight generally showed no interaction across subgroups. Total insulin daily doses during treatment and hypoglycaemia event rates were consistently lower with iGlarLixi versus IDegAsp in all subgroups. CONCLUSIONS: iGlarLixi provides improved glycaemic control at lower insulin doses with reduced risk of hypoglycaemia in Chinese adults with suboptimally controlled T2D on OADs, regardless of baseline age, disease duration or HbA1c.

Humans

Protein isolation markedly enhances in vitro digestibility, nutritional quality, and bioactivity of fungal mycelial proteins.

Fungal mycelial proteins are promising sustainable protein sources, yet their nutritional utilization is often limited by structural constraints. This study systematically evaluated the effects of protein isolation on the proteomic composition, gastrointestinal digestion behavior, amino acid utilization, and bioactivity of Pleurotus citrinopileatus mycelial proteins. Quantitative proteomics identified 3591 proteins, of which 3374 were shared between mycelial flour (PCMF) and protein isolate (PCMPI), indicating that PCMPI primarily represents the soluble proteome fraction. In vitro digestion revealed that PCMPI exhibited significantly higher digestibility (93.98%) than PCMF (42.98%) (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05), reaching levels comparable to whey protein isolate. Enhanced enzymatic accessibility in PCMPI promoted rapid peptide generation during the gastric phase and efficient amino acid release during the intestinal phase, resulting in higher peptide (634.76&#xa0;mg/g) and free amino acid levels (341.69&#xa0;mg/g) at the digestion endpoint. Consequently, PCMPI achieved a balanced amino acid profile with a PDCAAS of 1.0. Moreover, its digestion products exhibited stronger antioxidant activity (IC&#x2085;&#x2080;&#xa0;=&#xa0;8.36&#xa0;mg/mL) and ACE inhibitory activity (IC&#x2085;&#x2080;&#xa0;=&#xa0;15.65&#xa0;mg/mL) compared with PCMF. Mechanistically, protein isolation disrupted the cell wall matrix, shifting digestion from a structure-limited to an accessibility-driven regime. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that protein isolation markedly enhances the digestibility, nutritional quality, and functional potential of mycelial proteins, supporting their application as high-value sustainable protein ingredients.

Digestion

Effects of semaglutide and empagliflozin on markers of endothelial function in persons with type 2 diabetes: A post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial.

AIMS: The endothelium maintains vascular health by regulating blood flow and protecting against inflammatory damage. In type 2 diabetes (T2DM), however, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia place a significant burden on the endothelium, potentially leading to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). While semaglutide and empagliflozin have been shown to reduce CVD risk in T2DM, it remains unclear whether these benefits are mediated by improved endothelial function. This post-hoc analysis explores the effects of these agents on markers of endothelial function, i.e. the reactive hyperaemic index (RHI) and the endothelial-derived cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) E-Selectin, ICAM-1, P-Selectin, and VCAM-1. METHODS: This was a post-hoc analysis of a 32-week randomized trial evaluating the separate and combined effects of semaglutide and empagliflozin on cardio-renal organ damage. One hundred and twenty participants with type 2 diabetes, age&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;50 were randomized to four groups (semaglutide, empagliflozin, the combination or placebo). An increase in RHI and/or a decrease in CAMs were considered beneficial. RESULTS: RHI increased compared to baseline (0.11, 95%CI [0.008;0.21], p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.03) but not compared to placebo in the semaglutide group (0.11, 95%CI [-0.04;0.24], p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.16). There was no effect on RHI in the empagliflozin group. Compared to placebo, E-Selectin decreased significantly in the semaglutide and combination groups (-9, 95%CI [-14.1;-5.1] p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01 and&#xa0;-&#xa0;9, 95%CI [-14.3; -5.2] p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01, respectively). VCAM-1 increased in the same groups, compared to placebo (12.3, 95%CI[2.8;20.8] p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.01 and 16.2, 95%CI [7.2;24.3], p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01, respectively).P-Selectin and ICAM-1 was not significantly affected in any of the groups, compared to placebo (p&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;0.11 and p&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;0.09, respectively). CONCLUSION: Semaglutide improved endothelial function compared to baseline, but not significantly versus placebo, which likely is due to limited power. CAM responses were heterogeneous, suggesting distinct roles in endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. ClinicalTrialsRegister.eu: EudraCT 2019-000781-38.

Aged

Age-dependent reorganization of behavioral and striatal function in Cntnap2 knockout mice.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors. While ASD has a neurodevelopmental origin, it remains a lifelong condition, yet little is known about how its behavioral and neural features evolve across adulthood. Here, we investigated behavioral, synaptic, and structural alterations across the transition from early to mature adulthood in Cntnap2 knockout mice, a widely used model of ASD. Using a longitudinal behavioral approach combined with electrophysiological recordings and morphological analysis, we show that KO mice exhibit increased stereotyped and repetitive behaviors and reduced exploratory activity at both ages. However, detailed analysis of behavioral patterns revealed age-dependent differences, with early adult KO mice displaying increased behavioral persistence that later evolved into distinct patterns of behavioral sequences. These behavioral changes were associated with alterations in inhibitory synaptic transmission in the dorsolateral striatum (DLS), including changes in spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic current (sIPSC) frequency and temporal structure. In parallel, mature adult KO mice showed structural remodeling of spiny projection neurons, characterized by increased distal dendritic arborization and age-dependent organization of dendritic spines. Together, our findings demonstrate that ASD-related alterations are not static but evolve across adulthood, revealing a multi-level reorganization of behavioral, synaptic, and structural features. These results highlight the importance of considering adulthood stages in ASD and provide new insights into the dynamic nature of the condition.

Animals

Insulin, Semaglutide and Dapagliflozin in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Design and Methods of Triple Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes (TTT1)-An International Phase 3 Clinical Trial.

AIMS: Attaining target glycaemia can be a challenge in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) due to insulin-induced weight gain. Adjunct therapy with modern glucose-lowering agents developed for type 2 diabetes (T2D) has great potential but may be insufficiently efficacious and carries risks of hypoglycaemia and ketosis. We designed the first Phase 3 clinical trial to assess the efficacy and safety of adding a Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) and a Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter (SGLT2) Inhibitor to insulin therapy in overweight and obese adults with T1D and glycaemia above target (HbA1c 7.5%-11.0% inclusive) (NCT03899402). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In Period 1, participants are randomized 2:1 (open label) for 26&#x2009;weeks to semaglutide and insulin (uptitrated to 1.0&#x2009;mg weekly) or standard insulin therapy. In Period 2, those randomized to semaglutide and insulin in Period 1 are further randomized (double-blind) for 26&#x2009;weeks to dapagliflozin (10&#x2009;mg daily) or placebo, in addition to semaglutide. The primary objective is to compare change in HbA1c on 'triple therapy' (dapagliflozin, semaglutide and insulin) with 'dual therapy' (placebo, semaglutide and insulin). Secondary objectives include comparisons of triple therapy with standard insulin therapy and dual therapy (semaglutide and insulin) with standard insulin therapy. Safety outcomes include hypoglycaemia and ketosis. A sample size recalculation during the trial based on analysis of masked data revised the original recruitment target from 114 to 82 participants. CONCLUSION: The TTT1 trial will provide clinically useful information on combination adjunct therapy in the treatment of T1D.

Humans

Depression and amyloid-&#x3b2; across CSF, PET, and plasma biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Alzheimer's disease is increasingly defined by biomarker evidence of amyloid-&#x3b2; and tau pathology, sharpening questions about whether late-life depression contributes to, or instead reflects, this pathology. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published between 2000 and 2025 that compared amyloid-&#x3b2; biomarkers in adults with and without depression, with depression defined by validated clinical diagnoses or symptom rating scales. Twenty-four studies were included, spanning three biomarker sources: cerebrospinal fluid, positron emission tomography imaging, and plasma. Across all sources, the pooled difference in amyloid-&#x3b2; burden between depressed and non-depressed individuals was small and clustered near zero, indicating only a weak, statistically non-significant tendency toward higher amyloid in depression. When the three sources were examined separately, each yielded a similar near-null result, although between-study heterogeneity was considerable for cerebrospinal fluid and plasma and moderate for imaging. Importantly, a prespecified subgroup analysis showed that imaging results diverged by quantification method: studies using the simpler standardized uptake value ratio clustered around zero, whereas the smaller group of studies using kinetic distribution volume ratio modelling showed a significant positive association, suggesting that methodological choices critically influence the observed relationship. Taken together, these findings indicate that depression is not consistently accompanied by greater amyloid-&#x3b2; burden across widely used biomarker platforms. The distribution volume ratio signal nonetheless raises the possibility of subtle associations that cruder methods may obscure, and suggests that depression may shape Alzheimer's disease trajectories more by modifying the clinical impact of amyloid than by altering its amount.

Humans

Peripheral pain threshold, glycaemic status, and LAMP3 genetic variation: A community-based analysis.

Diabetic polyneuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, yet substantial inter-individual variation in peripheral pain perception suggests underlying genetic influences. This population-based study investigated clinical, metabolic, and genetic determinants of pain threshold using intraepidermal electrical stimulation in 906 participants from the Iwaki Health Promotion Project 2017. Genome-wide association analysis identified 12 loci showing suggestive associations, among which a missense variant in LAMP3 (rs482912) was prioritized as a biologically plausible candidate. Phenotype-stratified analyses showed that individuals carrying the CT or CC genotypes had lower PINT indices than those with the TT genotype, indicating reduced pain thresholds. Notably, the CC genotype retained an association with lower pain threshold using intraepidermal electrical stimulation under conditions of metabolic stress, including impaired glucose tolerance, elevated HbA1c, and obesity, whereas this association was attenuated in the presence of hypertension. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of human skin revealed that LAMP3-positive mature dendritic cells, enriched in immunoregulatory molecules, exhibited transcriptional enrichment of inflammatory, antigen-presenting, and nociception-related pathways, including NF-&#x3ba;B, JAK-STAT, cytokine signaling, and neuroimmune sensitization cascades. Autopsy-based skin analysis further demonstrated genotype-associated differences in dermal LAMP3-positive cell infiltration and CD8-positive T-cell abundance, while CD4-positive T-cell abundance and intraepidermal nerve fiber density remained unchanged across genotypes. Taken together, these findings suggest a potential association between LAMP3 variation and individual differences in peripheral pain threshold and provide biological context supporting a role for neuroimmune interactions in early sensory modulation under metabolic stress. Given the suggestive genetic evidence and indirect mechanistic data, these observations should be interpreted as exploratory and hypothesis-generating.

Humans

Efficacy and Hypoglycaemia Outcomes With Once-Weekly IcoSema Versus Comparators in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes by Kidney and Liver Function: A Post Hoc Analysis of the COMBINE 1-3 Trials.

AIMS: This post hoc analysis of COMBINE 1-3 assessed efficacy and hypoglycaemia outcomes with IcoSema (once-weekly combination therapy of basal insulin icodec and semaglutide [a glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue]) versus comparators in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) by kidney and liver function subgroups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Treatment outcomes were analysed by trial according to kidney (estimated glomerular filtration rate &#x2265;&#x2009;90; 60-<&#x2009;90; 30-<&#x2009;60; <&#x2009;30&#x2009;mL/min/1.73&#x2009;m2) and liver (total bilirubin &#x2264;&#x2009;21&#x2009;&#x3bc;mol/L or aspartate aminotransferase [AST] &#x2264;&#x2009;31/&#x2264;&#x2009;37 [female/male] U/L; total bilirubin >&#x2009;21&#x2009;&#x3bc;mol/L or AST >&#x2009;31/>&#x2009;37 [female/male] U/L) function subgroups. RESULTS: In COMBINE 1-3, across kidney and liver function subgroups, there were no statistically significant treatment by subgroup interactions for change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (baseline to week 52), change in body weight (baseline to week 52) or rates of combined clinically significant or severe hypoglycaemia (not assessed by kidney function for COMBINE 2) (all p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05). There were statistically significant treatment by kidney function subgroup interactions for the achievement of HbA1c <&#x2009;7.0% without weight gain and without clinically significant or severe hypoglycaemia in COMBINE 3 (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) but not COMBINE 1 or 2, and statistically significant treatment by liver function subgroup interactions in COMBINE 1 (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) but not COMBINE 2 or 3. For COMBINE 1 and 3, there were statistically significant treatment by kidney function subgroup interactions for mean weekly total insulin dose, but not statistically significant treatment by liver function subgroup interactions. CONCLUSIONS: Efficacy and hypoglycaemia outcomes with IcoSema versus comparators were generally consistent among adults with T2D with mild to moderate kidney impairment or impaired liver function. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The COMBINE 1-3 trials were sponsored by Novo Nordisk and are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05352815; NCT05259033; NCT05013229).

Humans

Metabolomics and genomics reveal high diversity and concentrations of cyanopeptides during a Microcystis bloom.

Cyanobacterial blooms are an immense global problem that release complex mixtures of poorly characterized biologically active cyanopeptides into freshwater. In this study, metabolomics and genomics were used to assess the diversity and concentrations of cyanopeptides during a dense Microcystis bloom during the late summer of 2023 in Lake Champlain, a large transboundary lake situated between Canada and the United States. Despite the relatively low genetic diversity of the bloom determined by 16S rRNA metabarcoding, 151 cyanopeptides were detected by non-targeted metabolomics. This represents the most recorded cyanopeptides from a single lake plankton bloom event to date. Fifty-two cyanopeptides were previously reported and 99 represent putative new structures. Standards from the microcystin, cyanopeptolin, microginin, and anabaenopeptin groups were used to either quantify or approximate respective cyanopeptide concentrations over the sampling period. Cyanopeptolins were the most diverse (n&#x202f;=&#x202f;68) cyanopeptides and the second most abundant, reaching 12,892&#x202f;&#x3bc;g/L. Microginins were the second most diverse (n&#x202f;=&#x202f;24) and reached the highest concentrations (18,262&#x202f;&#x3bc;g/L). Anabaenopeptins were the third most diverse (n&#x202f;=&#x202f;17) cyanopeptides, reaching 4,818&#x202f;&#x3bc;g/L. Only 8 microcystins were detected, reaching 4,935&#x202f;&#x3bc;g/L, where MC-LR was the dominant congener. Target cyanopeptide biosynthesis genes for microcystins (mcyE), cyanopeptolins (mcnC), anabaenopeptins (apnD), microviridins (mdnC), and aeruginosins (aerA) were also quantified using digital droplet PCR (ddPCR). The gene copy numbers for mcyE, mcnC, and apnD were highly correlated with their corresponding cyanopeptide concentrations. Overall, the studied Microcystis bloom produced a very diverse cyanopeptide mixture with high cyanopeptide concentrations including non-microcystin groups.

Microcystis

Flap Versus Tunneling for Horizontal Ridge Augmentation With FDBA and i-PRF: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

AIM: This study evaluated the efficacy of conventional flap and tunneling techniques for horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation using freeze-dried bone allograft (FDBA) particles combined with injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five patients were randomly allocated to one of three groups (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;15 each): conventional flap (CF), tunneling with membrane (TM), or tunneling without membrane (TnM). Preoperative ridge width was measured via cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). All augmentation procedures incorporated FDBA and i-PRF; an absorbable collagen membrane was applied in the CF and TM groups. Follow-up assessments, including CBCT imaging and histomorphometric analysis, were conducted 6&#x2009;months postoperatively. For normally distributed data, ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test and paired samples t-test were applied. Non-normally distributed data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. RESULTS: Statistical analysis was performed on 43 patients. All groups demonstrated an increase in ridge width after 6&#x2009;months. At the 2&#x2009;mm level, the mean width gain was 1.28&#x2009;mm (95% CI: 0.17 to 2.40) in the TM group, 2.85&#x2009;mm (95% CI: 1.80 to 3.89) in the TnM group, and 1.95&#x2009;mm (95% CI: 1.07 to 2.83) in the CF group. However, statistical analysis revealed no significant intergroup variation (p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05). Histomorphometric assessments similarly demonstrated comparable outcomes across all groups, with no statistically significant differences observed (p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05). CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the tunneling technique, regardless of membrane use, appears to be a clinically viable alternative to the conventional flap method for horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation. However, further studies with longer follow-up periods are required to substantiate these findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: irct.behdasht.gov.ir identifier: IRCT 20101204005305N21.

Humans