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PubMed2026

Spermidine and melatonin ameliorate heat stress-induced decline in sheep semen quality.

Heat stress impairs reproductive performance in sheep through endocrine disruption and oxidative stress. This study evaluated the protective effects of spermidine (SPD) and melatonin (MT) supplementation on semen quality in Dorper rams during summer. Twenty-four rams were randomly assigned to a control group, an SPD group (5 mg/kg, dietary supplementation), or an MT group (60 mg, subcutaneous implantation) and treated for 60 days. The temperature-humidity index (THI) was monitored throughout the experimental period. Compared with the control group, MT significantly reduced serum cortisol concentration on day 30 (P < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were observed at the other sampling time points. Serum testosterone, spermidine, and melatonin concentrations remained unchanged throughout the study (P > 0.05). SPD supplementation significantly increased ejaculate volume on day 35 and sperm motility on day 42 (P < 0.05), whereas MT did not significantly affect these parameters. Neither treatment reduced the overall sperm abnormality rate. However, both SPD and MT significantly decreased the proportion of acephalic and decaudated sperm on day 56 (P < 0.05). Neither treatment significantly affected pregnancy rate, delivery rate, or the expression of PMFBP1 and SUN5 proteins in semen (P > 0.05). Regarding oxidative stress, MT significantly downregulated CAT protein expression (P < 0.05), whereas SPD significantly reduced MDA content and SOD1 protein expression (P < 0.05); MT showed similar but non-significant trends for these two markers (P > 0.05). Collectively, these findings demonstrate that SPD and MT exert distinct protective effects against heat stress, with SPD improving selected semen quality traits and both treatments reducing sperm head-tail separation, although these benefits did not translate into improved reproductive performance.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

The relationship between composite dietary antioxidant index and odds of depression: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies.

BACKGROUND: Recently, the association between the composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) score and depression has received special attention from researchers. However, this possible association has not been comprehensively examined. Thus, the present study aims to comprehensively assess the relationship between CDAI score and depression odds. METHODS: A thorough literature search was performed using Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science up to November 2025. Observational studies assessing the relationship between CDAI score and depression odds were included. The odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) reported in each study were extracted, and a pooled effect size was calculated using a random-effects model with inverse-variance weighting. RESULTS: Four observational studies were included in the current systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled effect size indicated that a higher CDAI score was associated with lower odds of depression (OR:0.62; 95%CI: 0.51-0.76, I2 = 48.5%; P-value = 0.121). In an exploratory linear dose-response analysis based on two eligible studies, no significant association was observed between a one-unit increase in CDAI score and the odds of depression (OR = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.91-1.02; I2 = 92.2%; P-value<0.001). Given the limited number of studies and substantial heterogeneity, these findings should be interpreted cautiously. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that higher CDAI scores, reflecting greater adherence to antioxidant-rich dietary patterns, are associated with lower odds of depression.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Intraspecific variation in Bothrops neuwiedi snake venom: Influence of age and sex.

Snake venom is a complex mixture of molecules and is subject to intraspecific variations due to the influence of abiotic and/or biotic factors, one of which is the animal's ontogeny. Some studies have already shown the influence of age on the composition and properties of snake venom, but these variations are not uniform, and each species may exhibit a specific pattern of variation. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the influence of age on the venom of Bothrops neuwiedi, using 5 age groups, differentiating between males and females. To this end, we analyzed the protein profile of these venoms (using SDS-PAGE, HPLC, and proteomic analyses); enzymatic activities (PLA2, LAAO, and proteolytic activities); coagulant activity, in vivo assays (MDH; LD50 and ED50), and immunorecognition tests (Western blotting and ELISA). Protein profile analysis showed that males exhibited a gradual increase in SVMP and PLA2 concentrations. Both sexes showed a decrease in CTL concentration and a loss of PLA2 activity, which occurred more gradually in males. Proteolytic activity did not show clear ontogenetic differences, but both sexes showed activity peaks in the 2-year-old and senile groups, with females exhibiting higher proteolytic activity than males. Regarding LAAO activity, it increased in males and decreased in females. Although the LD50 did not show age-dependent differences, the venom from the 1-year-old group took longer to cause death in mice but showed a higher hemorrhagic activity than seniles. Furthermore, more antivenom was needed to neutralize the venom from the 1-year-old group than the venom from the senile group; despite this, immunorecognition tests did not show significant ontogenetic variations. In conclusion, the venom of the snake B. neuwiedi undergoes ontogenetic variations with certain sexual differences, showing some peculiarities that have not been found in ontogenetic analyses of other species of the same genus.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Investigating telomere length and hTERT-MNS16A VNTR polymorphism in Bipolar disorder: Insights into clinical features.

OBJECTIVE: To compare leukocyte telomere length (LTL; T/S ratio) and hTERT-MNS16A VNTR polymorphism between patients with bipolar disorder (BD) and healthy controls, and to examine their associations with clinical features in BD. METHODS: A total of 179 participants (100 BD patients, 79 healthy controls) were enrolled. Relative LTL was assessed by qPCR-based T/S ratio; hTERT-MNS16A VNTR genotyping by PCR and gel electrophoresis. Clinical variables including episode frequency, illness duration, age at onset, symptom severity scales, first episode polarity, and family history of mood disorder were evaluated. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed between BD patients and healthy controls in T/S ratio or hTERT-MNS16A VNTR genotype distributions (all p > 0.05). Within the BD group, S allele carriers (L/S or S/S) had significantly more depressive episodes than L/L homozygotes (1.45 ± 2.58 vs. 0.61 ± 1.52; p = .040). Significant inverse correlations were identified between T/S ratio and depressive episode count (ρ = -0.220, p = .028) and total mood episodes (ρ = -0.207, p = .039). Multivariable negative binomial regression revealed four independent predictors of depressive episode frequency: lower T/S ratio (p = 0.005), S allele carriage (L/S or S/S genotypes) (p = 0.001), first depressive episode polarity (p < 0.001), and family history of mood disorder (p = 0.035). CONCLUSION: Although LTL and hTERT-MNS16A VNTR genotype did not differ between BD patients and healthy controls, shorter telomere length and S allele carriage were independently associated with higher depressive episode frequency within the BD group, implicating telomere biology and hTERT genetic variation in the biological substrate of depressive illness burden.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Comparing the Effects of Push and Hold Isometric Training on Strength and Musculotendinous Adaptations: A Within-Subject Randomized Controlled Trial.

Lum, D, Oranchuk, DJ, Chen, SE, and Kong, PW. Comparing the effects of push and hold isometric training on strength and musculotendinous adaptations: A within-subject randomized controlled trial. J Strength Cond Res 40(9): 1050-1058, 2026-Despite recent interest in delineating pushing (PIMA) and holding (HIMA) isometric muscle actions, training-induced adaptations have not been examined. As such, we compared the strength and morphological adaptations between PIMA and HIMA training. Twenty limbs across 10 adults (5 men, 5 women, age: 31.4 ± 6.5 years) were randomly assigned to PIMA or HIMA conditions and underwent 12 training sessions over 6 weeks. PIMA required subjects to exert force against a fixed lever while the HIMA limb maintained a set joint angle while resisting an isotonic lever. During each contraction, subjects had to exert force at 70% of maximal voluntary contraction for 20 seconds at an 80° knee angle, for 4-6 repetitions. Subjects completed isometric, concentric, and eccentric knee extension assessments for both limbs before and after the intervention. Pre- and postintervention ultrasound scans were performed to determine quadriceps muscle architecture and patellar tendon thickness. Increased isometric torque was found following both conditions (p < 0.05, g = 0.30-0.36), while concentric (p < 0.05, g = 0.31) and eccentric (p < 0.01, g = 0.50) torque only increased following PIMA. Both conditions increased muscle thickness (p < 0.05, g = 0.27-0.88) and vastus lateralis fascicle length (p < 0.05, g = 0.20-0.31). Only HIMA increased patellar tendon thickness (p < 0.05, g = 0.12). The increase in total quadriceps (p < 0.05, g = 0.46) and especially rectus femoris (p < 0.05, g = 1.44) thickness was greater in HIMA. The results suggest that PIMA may be more effective at improving strength, while HIMA may be superior for inducing morphological adaptations. Larger sample sizes and more ecologically valid training programs are warranted to further elucidate potential differences between different isometric types.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effect of levothyroxine therapy on albuminuria and glomerular function in patients with type 2 diabetes and subclinical Hypothyroidism: a randomized controlled pilot trial.

AIMS: To evaluate the effect of levothyroxine therapy on renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) with background SGLT2 inhibitor therapy. METHODS: In this hypothesis generating open-label, randomized controlled pilot trial, adults with T2DM and SCH were assigned (1:1) to levothyroxine or no levothyroxine therapy and followed for 6 months. Primary outcomes were changes in urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). RESULTS: Sixty participants were randomized (30 per group); 24 and 27 completed follow-up in the treatment and control groups respectively. UACR decreased with levothyroxine (-13.09 mg/g) and increased in controls (31.84 mg/g). The difference was significant in per-protocol (PP)(-44.93 mg/g; 95% CI -77.6 to -12.26; p = 0.008) but insignificant in intention to treat (ITT)(-35.61 mg/g; 95% CI -77.31 to 6.08; p = 0.092). eGFR changes were statistically insignificant in both ITT(4.65 mL/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI -8.3 to 17.6; p = 0.472) and PP(7.35 mL/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI -1.68 to 16.37; p = 0.108). Thyroid-stimulating hormone decreased significantly in treatment arm in comparison to control arm (p < 0.001) in ITT and PP. No adverse event was reported. CONCLUSIONS: Levothyroxine treatment showed trend toward improving albuminuria and eGFR without reaching statistical significance, suggesting possible renoprotective effect warranting further studies. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial is registered with Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2025/06/089606).

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effects of passive blood flow restriction on muscle function following exercise-induced muscle damage in recreationally active males.

This investigation examined the effects of passive blood flow restriction (pBFR) on indices of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) in recreationally active males. Fifteen males completed six consecutive visits (±2 hours). Participants completed 3 × 25 maximal, unilateral, isokinetic (60°·s-1), concentric-eccentric leg extensions on both legs. Each leg was randomly assigned to receive pBFR (80% arterial occlusion pressure) or sham (20 mmHg) at 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours post-EIMD. Perceived muscle soreness, range of motion (ROM), pain pressure threshold (PPT), concentric peak torque (CPT), and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) torque were assessed and analyzed using separate linear mixed-effects models. Perceived muscle soreness increased at 24 hours (mean difference [meandiff] = 4.9 au; p < 0.001) and recovered by 96 hours (p = 0.482), with no differences between conditions (p = 0.450). ROM (meandiff = -3.1°; p = 0.040), PPT (meandiff = -1.63 kgf; p < 0.001), CPT (meandiff = -27.7 Nm; p < 0.001), and MVIC torque (meandiff = -30.8 Nm; p < 0.001) decreased at 24 hours, with recovery occurring between 48-96 hours. Condition-specific differences were observed for ROM (meandiff = 2.5°; p < 0.001), PPT (meandiff = 0.49 kgf; p = 0.005), CPT (meandiff = 6.2 Nm; p = 0.020), and MVIC torque (meandiff = 7.1 Nm; p = 0.044), which were greater in pBFR than sham. These findings suggested that pBFR may reduce impairments in ROM, PPT, CPT, and MVIC torque following EIMD, despite a similar recovery trajectory between conditions.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Harnessing Polygenic Risk Scores to Refine Venous Thromboembolism Risk Stratification.

BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of morbidity in patients of all ages. Despite growing interest in polygenic risk scores (PRS) for VTE, their utility remains understudied. Our objective was to evaluate the independent impact of a PRS on VTE susceptibility in adults and children. METHODS: We completed a retrospective, case-control study of two separate cohorts with evaluation of three VTE PRS models, with the primary analysis focused on a 293 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) PRS. The adult cohort included 597 VTE cases and 31 998 controls, and the pediatric cohort included 109 cases and 448 controls, both obtained from a de-identified databank with linked genetic data. Separate adult and pediatric multivariable logistic regressions were performed to measure the association of risk factors with VTE. RESULTS: Higher PRS in adults was significantly associated with increased odds of VTE, with each 1-standard deviation increase in PRS conferring an adjusted odds ratio of 1.25 (OR = 1.25, 95% CI 1.15-1.36, p < 0.001). Leading risk factors for adults were cancer (OR = 2.43, 95% CI: 2.04-2.89, p < 0.001) and recent surgery (OR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.83-2.54, p < 0.001). The standardized PRS also exhibited increased risk for VTE in children (OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.10-1.74, p = 0.003). Central venous catheterization (OR = 5.65, 95% CI 3.40-9.50, p < 0.001) was the foremost risk factor for pediatric VTE. CONCLUSION: VTE in adults and children is multifactorial, with clinical and genome-wide risk factors contributing. PRS may serve as a valuable adjunct to clinical risk factors for VTE risk stratification.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Associations of red blood cell fatty acids with personality traits: 10-year follow-up in the Kibbutzim Family Study (KFS).

BACKGROUND: The ability of hostility and type-A personality to predict cardiovascular outcomes makes understanding antecedents of these personality traits an important public health objective. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine whether blood-measured fatty acids (the exposure) are associated with hostility and type-A personality (the outcome), while accounting for lifestyle, sociodemographic factors, and polygenic background. METHODS: Personality traits, sociodemographic, and lifestyle data were obtained in 1992-1993 from 452 family members living in kibbutz settlements in Israel (visit 1) and remeasured 8 to 10 y later in 379 individuals (visit 2). Red blood cell (RBC) fatty acid concentrations were determined in visit 1 by gas chromatography. Longitudinal associations of visit 1 fatty acids with visit 2 personality traits were examined using linear models, before and after controlling for baseline personality scores. The contribution of environmental factors to personality scores beyond heritability was estimated by variance decomposition. RESULTS: In longitudinal analysis, 1% increase in visit 1 total n-6 (ω-6) fatty acid was associated with a 0.328-unit decrease in visit 2 type-A score [95% confidence interval (CI): -0.571, -0.085]. After adjustment for baseline personality levels, the association was slightly attenuated (β= -0.204; CI: -0.399, -0.009). One percent higher total n-6 was also associated with 1.119 units lower visit 2 hostility score (CI: -2.777, 0.038; P = 0.055). Finally, independent of the genetic contribution (32%-38% of adjusted variability in hostility and type-A personality), 1% increase in total n-3 and total n-6 was associated with 2.539 (CI: -3.907, -1.171) and 0.201 (CI: -0.365, -0.037) units lower hostility and type-A scores, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Higher RBC total n-6 fatty acid concentrations are associated with lower type-A personality scores. After adjustment for baseline personality levels, the associations between total n-6 and hostility and between total n-3 and hostility are attenuated. These findings support further investigation of the relationship between fatty acid biology and personality traits using study designs better suited to causal inference.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Dynamics and virulence of Enterobacteriaceae reservoirs harboring blaCTX-M group 1 in community wastewater.

UNLABELLED: Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria are ubiquitous and can cause serious infections. Here, we examined untreated community wastewater influent as a reservoir for blaCTX-M group 1 organisms and their virulence potential. Raw influent samples (n = 268) were collected from four wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) representing dense urban populations. We observed that blaCTX-M group 1 levels were high at all WWTPs and only ~1-2 log10 lower and not correlated to common human-specific microbiome fecal markers, Lachno3 and HF183, indicating a lack of connection to human fecal inputs. Concentrations of blaCTX-M group 1 genes and markers for presumptive host organisms Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were influenced by travel time and season. Amplicon sequencing revealed high diversity of blaCTX-M group 1-9 genes, with 63% belonging to group 1. Selective culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed blaCTX-M group 1 isolates were 26% E. coli, 26% K. pneumoniae, 40% other Enterobacteriaceae, and 8% Aeromonas. Overall, E. coli averaged 3.6E7 cells/L, with 3% of all E. coli found to contain blaCTX-M group 1. Whole-genome sequencing of blaCTX-M group 1 E. coli from wastewater revealed resistance and virulence gene profiles similar to clinical isolates and distinct from other wastewater ESBL-resistant and non-resistant E. coli. Interpretation of wastewater data needs to consider both the existence of environmental reservoirs that contain potentially pathogenic organisms and the strong influence the dynamics of the conveyance system can have on final concentrations measured at the WWTP. IMPORTANCE: The CTX-M enzyme family is highly abundant in nosocomial, community, and environmental settings and is leading to treatment of infections with carbapenem antibiotics, a last-line therapeutic option. The progressive increase of the clinically relevant blaCTX-M group 1 resistance genes in the human population warrants investigation, particularly to understand the establishment and dynamics of environmental reservoirs. This study utilized molecular and culture methods to gain insight into the possible origin, abundance, and dynamics of blaCTX-M group 1 genes in untreated wastewater influent samples. We found extremely high levels of these genes, with Escherichia coli as a major host organism that closely resembled clinical strains, suggesting they are seeded and propagate in sewer pipe systems. The significance of our research is in developing approaches to monitor antimicrobial resistance reservoirs in community wastewater, which could shed light on global burdens and potential transmission cycles and indicate increasing inputs of clinically relevant strains originating from human populations.

E. coli↗

PubMed2026

Diagnostic accuracy of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid-based testing for pulmonary cryptococcosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary cryptococcosis(PC) presents diagnostic challenges because of its non-specific clinical and radiological manifestations. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF)-based testing, which includes latex agglutination (LA) and lateral flow assay (LFA), offers a minimally invasive diagnostic method, yet its pooled diagnostic accuracy remains unclear. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus from inception to May 2026. Studies evaluating BALF-based testing for PC with extractable 2 × 2 data were included. The methodological quality of relevant studies was assessed by the QUADAS-2 tool. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were estimated using a bivariate random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed by testing method and reference standard type. Heterogeneity was evaluated through paired forest plots, HSROC visualization, and exploratory bivariate meta-regression. RESULTS: The pooled sensitivity was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.81-0.91), and the specificity was 0.99 (95% CI: 0.982 - 0.995). The pooled positive likelihood ratio (PLR) was 88.00 (95% CI: 47.39 - 163.42), the negative likelihood ratio (NLR) was 0.13 (95% CI: 0.09 -0.20), and the DOR was 658.50 (95% CI: 285.36-1519.55). No significant threshold effect or publication bias was detected. Exploratory meta-regression suggested a possible assay-method effect in the joint model (P = 0.03), mainly driven by specificity (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrates the high accuracy of CrAg in BALF for the diagnosis of pulmonary cryptococcosis, supporting its role as an important adjunctive diagnostic tool, particularly when tissue biopsy is not feasible or rapid results are needed. Larger prospective studies with standardized protocols are needed to validate these estimates.

Humans↗

PubMed2025

Impact of stromal maturity and proportion on prognosis and immune landscape in colorectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Tumour microenvironment and cancer cells have constant interaction affecting cancer progression. Tumour-stroma ratio (TSR) in the tumour centre and desmoplastic reaction (DR) classification at the invasive margin are prognostic factors based on stroma evaluation on H&E slides. However, their combined value and immunological associations remain poorly defined. This study examines the prognostic and immunological value of TSR, DR, and their combination in two large colorectal cancer cohorts. METHODS: Two colorectal cancer cohorts (N = 1,876) were analyzed. We introduced a three-tiered Stromal Maturity and Proportion Score (SMAPS) based on the presence of high (>50%) TSR and myxoid stroma (immature DR classification). Alcian blue staining was used to further quantify myxoid stroma. Multiplex immunohistochemistry combined with digital image analyses, was utilized to study immune cell densities associated with SMAPS, TSR, DR, and Alcian blue intensity. RESULTS: In the study cohort (N = 1,100), SMAPS was a stronger predictor of cancer-specific mortality [HR for high (vs. low) SMAPS 2.01 (95% CI 1.47-2.75), p < 0.0001] compared to TSR [HR for stroma-high (vs. stroma-low) 1.49 (95% CI 1.15-1.93), p = 0.003] and DR classification [HR for immature (vs. mature) 1.84 (95% CI 1.39-2.45), p < 0.0001]. High SMAPS, stroma-high TSR, and immature DR correlated with lower densities of CD3+ T cells, B cells, M1-like macrophages, CD66B+ granulocytes, and mast cells. Alcian blue staining was associated with immature DR and corresponding immune cells. The validation cohort (N = 776) confirmed the association of SMAPS with survival and T cell densities. CONCLUSIONS: TSR and DR are independent prognostic factors for cancer-specific survival. SMAPS is a promising prognostic tool that integrates stromal maturity at the invasive margin and stromal proportion in the tumour centre. SMAPS has stronger prognostic value compared to TSR and DR classifications alone. A high stromal proportion and myxoid content are associated with an immunosuppressive microenvironment characterized by lower densities of antitumourigenic immune cells.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

No association between alcohol consumption and hip osteoarthritis: a diverse national analysis of 87,585 adults from the "All of Us" research program.

INTRODUCTION: Hip osteoarthritis (OA) is estimated to affect 62.6 million individuals by 2050. A probable link exists between alcohol use and hip OA. However, the results are inconsistent, and the relationship between alcohol and hip OA remains speculative. To address these gaps, this study aimed to utilize the diverse, nationally representative All of Us Research Program dataset to explore the association between alcohol consumption and hip OA. METHODS: This retrospective case-control study utilized data from the All of Us Research Program Controlled Tier Dataset v8. 17,517 hip OA cases and 70,068 controls were identified. A 1:4 case-to-control matching ratio was applied based on age and sex. Alcohol use frequency was categorized into five levels: Never, Monthly or Less, Two to Four Times per Month, Two to Three Times per Week, and Four or More Times per Week. Multivariable logistic regression models evaluated the association between alcohol use frequency and hip OA after adjusting for demographic and clinical variables. RESULTS: Multivariable analysis found that alcohol use frequency was not significantly associated with hip OA. Compared to never users, participants with low (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.93-1.04, P = 0.583), moderate (OR 0.99-1.01, all P > 0.05), and high (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.95-1.09, P = 0.599) levels of alcohol consumption had no statistically significant differences in odds of hip OA. Female sex, Asian race, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and nicotine dependence increased the odds of hip OA. CONCLUSION: Any level of alcohol consumption was not significantly associated with the odds of hip OA. This study adds valuable insight to the current body of conflicting evidence. Further prospective studies appear warranted to shed light on the long-term effects of different alcoholic beverages on different joints. Key Points • This study found no significant association between any degree of alcohol consumption and the odds of developing hip osteoarthritis. • Utilizing data from 87,585 adults in the NIH "All of Us" Research Program, this is the first study to analyze this relationship in a large, nationally representative population. • The research provides clarity to previously conflicting literature by demonstrating that alcohol lacks a clear harmful or protective effect on the clinical course of the disease. • The analysis highlights that independent risk factors such as Asian race, nicotine dependence, and components of metabolic syndrome increase the odds of hip osteoarthritis.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

An automated geometric modeling framework in GATE for the design and optimization of high-sensitivity converging-beam SPECT collimators.

Objective.The trade-off between detection sensitivity and spatial resolution is a fundamental challenge in designing organ-dedicated Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) collimators. While converging-hole geometries offer a solution, their optimization is often hindered by the lack of flexible computational tools capable of modeling large-scale, non-parallel hole arrays. This study aims to develop an automated geometric modeling framework to facilitate the design and evaluation of complex converging- and diverging-hole collimators within standard Monte Carlo environments.Approach.We developed a specialized modeling framework by implementing custom C++ classes and a vector-based alignment algorithm within GATE. This platform enables automated, orientation-consistent construction of large-scale converging arrays not natively supported by standard implementations. A high-sensitivity pure cone-beam collimator (CBC) was designed using this framework. The evaluation used hot-rod, disc, and Jaszczak phantoms for physical characterization, while XCAT and dedicated brain models were employed for clinical tasks, including cardiac, brain perfusion, and DaTscan SPECT simulations.Main results.The CBC achieved a nearly fourfold sensitivity increase compared to a conventional low-energy high-resolution parallel-hole collimator at a 20 cm radius of rotation, while maintaining comparable spatial resolution. Despite a 52.3% field of view reduction, the CBC yielded a 2.2-fold noise reduction (CV: 11.7% vs 25.9%) and mitigated partial volume effects via geometric magnification. XCAT and brain phantom simulations confirmed enhanced anatomical definition and contrast recovery in cardiac, perfusion, and DaTscan tasks.Significance.This work provides an efficient computational tool for rapid design space exploration of advanced collimator geometries. The results demonstrate that the proposed CBC design offers a significant sensitivity advantage, making it highly suitable for high-performance, small-volume clinical applications such as brain and cardiac molecular imaging.

Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon↗

PubMed2026

Structural and physicochemical characterisation of branched dextrans produced by an active α-(1→2) branching sucrase from Apilactobacillus kunkeei PDER37.

Recently, branching sucrases encoded in the genomes of certain Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) strains have become novel enzymes to obtain branched α-glucans. In this study an active α-(1 → 2) branching sucrase from Apilactobacillus kunkeei PDER37 was expressed, characterised and distinct branched dextrans was obtained with reactions under different sucrose: dextran ratio. Structural characterisation by 1H and 13C NMR analysis demonstrated the branching of the dextran with (1 → 2)-linked α-d-glucose units with no alteration in the final structure depending on sucrose: dextran ratio (D0) but this ratio was effective for the determination of the molecular weights of the branched dextrans (D1, D2 and D3). FTIR analysis further supported the dextran structures and suggested the higher accumulation of the α-Glc units in the branched dextrans. Thermal characterisation of the branched dextrans obtained by TGA and DSC analysis suggested the increased hygroscopicity of the branching units. Both SEM and AFM analysis demonstrated more porous chain like structures in the branched dextrans. This study provides valuable information on the role of active α-(1 → 2) branching sucrase (BS37) for the production of branched dextrans with potential increased physicochemical status applicable for food and other industries.

Dextrans↗

PubMed2026

Optimization of a niosomal formulation for Quercetin delivery: Comparative effects on growth performance, antioxidant and immune responses, and disease resistance against Streptococcus iniae in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Quercetin (QUR) is a flavonoid with antibacterial and antioxidant properties that has been studied for its effects on fish health and the immune system. Due to the low bioavailability of QUR, the present study was primarily aimed at developing a niosomal formulation of QUR to enhance its bioavailability and therapeutic properties. The performance of niosomal QUR was then compared with that of its free form by evaluating their effects on the growth and immune system of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. For this purpose, an optimal QUR-containing niosome was formulated by testing different proportions of cholesterol, surfactant, and stabilizer, and the niosomes were then added to the fish diet. A QUR-free diet and a diet containing QUR-free niosomes (QFN) were considered control groups. Niosomes prepared at low hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) values showed higher QUR entrapment efficiency (QUR-EE%) (P < 0.01). An increase in the molar ratio of cholesterol to surfactant significantly reduced QUR-EE% (P < 0.05). A surfactant/cholesterol/stabilizer ratio of 1:1:0.1 increased QUR-EE% (P < 0.05). The particle size of the niosomes was also affected by HLB and the surfactant/cholesterol/stabilizer ratio. Low HLB values resulted in smaller particle sizes (P < 0.01). Furthermore, a surfactant/cholesterol/stabilizer ratio of 1:1:0.1 resulted in the smallest niosomal particle size (P < 0.05). The presence of diacetyl phosphate as the stabilizer in the formulation improved the niosomal zeta potential to -40.55 mV. The optimal niosomal formulation (HLB = 6.6; surfactant/cholesterol/stabilizer ratio of 1:1:0.1) remained stable at 2 °C over 10 days of storage, as the niosomal QUR content and size did not show significant changes during this period (P > 0.01). After preparation of the diets containing the optimal niosomal QUR, fish were fed the experimental diets for two months. QUR, in both niosomal and free forms, resulted in better growth performance than the QUR-free diets (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in growth performance between the free and niosomal forms of QUR; however, 500 mg/kg QUR showed significantly better growth performance than 250 mg/kg QUR (P < 0.01). Although both the niosomal and free forms of QUR enhanced immune and antioxidant components in the fish, the effects of the niosomal form were more significant (P < 0.01). In addition, QUR in both free and niosomal forms reduced fish mortality after challenge with Streptococcus iniae. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that the niosomal form of QUR has strong potential for improving the immune system of fish and increasing resistance to S. iniae infection.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

A Phase I Study Assessing the Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of Yinfenidone: A Novel, Potent Drug for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatment in Healthy Chinese Subjects.

PURPOSE: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal interstitial lung disease with a median survival of only 2-3 years after diagnosis. Yinfenidone (HEC585) possesses the potential to inhibit the proliferation of pulmonary fibroblasts, making it a promising candidate for the treatment of IPF. This study assessed the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and metabolic profile of Yinfenidone hydrochloride capsule in healthy Chinese subjects. METHODS: This single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single ascending-dose trial included seven dose groups(20, 50, 100, 200, 400, 600, and 800 mg). Each group enrolled8 healthy subjects: 6 received Yinfenidone hydrochloride capsules and 2 received matching placebo under fasting conditions. Serial pharmacokinetic (PK) blood samples were collected pre-dose and post-dose, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze the plasma concentrations of Yinfenidone. Additionally, metabolic biotransformation of Yinfenidone in plasma were conducted in the 100 mg dose group. Safety and tolerability endpoints were monitored via physical examinations, vital signs measurements, clinical laboratory tests, 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG), and adverse events (AEs) documentation throughout the trial. FINDINGS: Yinfenidone was rapidly absorbed, with a median maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) of 1.8-3.0 hours, and had a mean half-life (t1/2) ranging from 31.9 to 62.0 hours. Within the 20-100 mg dose range, systemic drug exposure generally increased with ascending dose, above 100 mg, exposure increased less than proportionally to dose. Metabolite profiling in the 100 mg group revealed that the parentcompound predominated in plasma, with metabolic pathways including mono-oxygenation and N-dealkylation. All reported AEswere mild, classified as Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 4.03 grade 1. No serious AEs observed; no subject discontinued the trial due to AEs. Single oral doses of 20-800 mg Yinfenidone hydrochloride capsules administered under fasting conditions demonstrated favorable safety and tolerability profiles in healthy Chinese subjects. IMPLICATIONS: Yinfenidone exhibited rapid absorption (median Tmax, 1.8-3.0 hours) and a long terminal t1/2 ranging from 31.9 to 62.0 hours in this single ascending-dose study, indicating that Yinfenidone can be taken once a day in subsequent clinical studies. Yinfenidone mainly exists in human plasma as the original drug and is metabolized through a variety of metabolic pathways. The AEs observed with Yinfenidone in this study, such as diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness, were similar to those reported with pirfenidone. Overall, Yinfenidone demonstrated a favorable safety and tolerability profile in this cohort of healthy subjects.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Comparison of black carbon measurements using filter-specific reference transmittance to those using lab blanks or an average of unloaded filters.

Filter-based optical techniques compare light transmission intensities between loaded (I) and unloaded (I0) filters as a measure of light-absorbing mass for subsequent estimations of equivalent black carbon (eBC). We analyzed 5,379 15 mm Teflon filters from the Household Air Pollution Intervention Network (HAPIN) trial to assess the influence that different methods of I0 estimations have on eBC measures. We compared eBC measurements using filter-specific I0 values (Method 1) to those using three other methods of I0 estimation: the lab blank scan from a given session (Method 2), the average of all pre-sample filter scans (Method 3), and the average of all lab blank filter scans (Method 4). We assessed the agreement between Method 1 and the alternative methods using Bland-Altman analysis. We also assessed the relationship between Method 1 and the alternative methods across the complete measurement range and after stratifying exposure data into quartiles according to Method 1 eBC exposures. The mean (SD) personal eBC exposure for Method 1 was 7.8 μg/m3 (5.9), and exposures ranged from 1.3 to 46.8 μg/m3. Compared to Method 1, eBC using Methods 2, 3, and 4 were higher by 0.7 μg/m3, 0.1 μg/m3, and 0.7 μg/m3, respectively. The performances of linear regression models between Method 1 and all other methods were moderate to strong (R2 range: 0.42-0.93) in the second, third, and fourth quartiles; however, the models in the first quartile (eBC range: 1.3-2.9 μg/m3) performed poorly (R2 = 0.25-0.26), with error approximately 25% of the mean. Our findings suggest that, in most instances, conventional methods for obtaining I0 values can be used to sufficiently characterize eBC; however, analyzing filters before sampling adds appreciably to the accuracy of eBC estimations in lower concentration settings.Implications: Filter-based optical techniques compare light transmission intensities between loaded (I) and unloaded (I0) filters as a measure of light-absorbing mass for subsequent estimations of equivalent black carbon (eBC). To assess the influence that different methods of I0 estimations have on eBC measures, we analyzed 5,379 15 mm Teflon filters from the Household Air Pollution Intervention Network (HAPIN) trial. Our findings suggest that, in most instances, conventional methods for obtaining I0 values can be used to sufficiently characterize eBC; however, analyzing filters before sampling adds appreciably to the accuracy of eBC estimations in lower concentration settings.

Soot↗