Lactate limits CNS autoimmunity by stabilizing HIF-1α in dendritic cells.

Dendritic cells (DCs) have a role in the development and activation of self-reactive pathogenic T cells1,2. Genetic variants that are associated with the function of DCs have been linked to autoimmune disorders3,4, and DCs are therefore attractive therapeutic targets for such diseases. However, developing DC-targeted therapies for autoimmunity requires identification of the mechanisms that regulate DC function. Here, using single-cell and bulk transcriptional and metabolic analyses in combination with cell-specific gene perturbation studies, we identify a regulatory loop of negative feedback that operates in DCs to limit immunopathology. Specifically, we find that lactate, produced by activated DCs and other immune cells, boosts the expression of NDUFA4L2 through a mechanism mediated by hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). NDUFA4L2 limits the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species that activate XBP1-driven transcriptional modules in DCs that are involved in the control of pathogenic autoimmune T cells. We also engineer a probiotic that produces lactate and suppresses T cell autoimmunity through the activation of HIF-1α-NDUFA4L2 signalling in DCs. In summary, we identify an immunometabolic pathway that regulates DC function, and develop a synthetic probiotic for its therapeutic activation.

Identification of environmental factors that promote intestinal inflammation.

Genome-wide association studies have identified risk loci linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)1-a complex chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. The increasing prevalence of IBD in industrialized countries and the augmented disease risk observed in migrants who move into areas of higher disease prevalence suggest that environmental factors are also important determinants of IBD susceptibility and severity2. However, the identification of environmental factors relevant to IBD and the mechanisms by which they influence disease has been hampered by the lack of platforms for their systematic investigation. Here we describe an integrated systems approach, combining publicly available databases, zebrafish chemical screens, machine learning and mouse preclinical models to identify environmental factors that control intestinal inflammation. This approach established that the herbicide propyzamide increases inflammation in the small and large intestine. Moreover, we show that an AHR-NF-κB-C/EBPß signalling axis operates in T cells and dendritic cells to promote intestinal inflammation, and is targeted by propyzamide. In conclusion, we developed a pipeline for the identification of environmental factors and mechanisms of pathogenesis in IBD and, potentially, other inflammatory diseases.

Long-term enhancements in antidepressant efficacy and neurogenesis: Effects of intranasal co-administration of neuropeptide Y 1 receptor (NPY1R) and galanin receptor 2 (GALR2) agonists in the ventral hippocampus.

This study evaluates the sustained antidepressant-like effects and neurogenic potential of a 3-day intranasal co-administration regimen of galanin receptor 2 (GALR2) agonist M1145 and neuropeptide Y Y1 receptor (NPY1R) agonist [Leu31, Pro34]NPY in the ventral hippocampus of adult rats, with outcomes analyzed 3 weeks post-treatment. Utilizing the forced swimming test (FST), we found that this co-administration significantly enhances antidepressant-like behaviors, an effect neutralized by the GALR2 antagonist M871, highlighting the synergistic potential of these neuropeptides in modulating mood-related behaviors. In situ proximity ligation assay (PLA) indicated a significant increase in GALR2/NPYY1R heteroreceptor complexes in the ventral hippocampal dentate gyrus, suggesting a molecular basis for the behavioral outcomes observed. Moreover, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunolabeling revealed increased cell proliferation in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus, specifically in neuroblasts as evidenced by co-labeling with doublecortin (DCX), without affecting quiescent neural progenitors or astrocytes. The study also noted a significant uptick in the number of DCX-positive cells and alterations in dendritic morphology in the ventral hippocampus, indicative of enhanced neuronal differentiation and maturation. These morphological changes highlight the potential of these agonists to facilitate the functional integration of new neurons into existing neural circuits. By demonstrating the long-lasting effects of a brief, 3-day intranasal administration of GALR2 and NPY1R agonists, our findings contribute significantly to the understanding of neuropeptide-mediated neuroplasticity and herald novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of depression and related mood disorders, emphasizing the therapeutic promise of targeting neurogenesis and neuronal maturation processes.

Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis of Dynamic Cerebral Autoregulation and Functional Outcome After Ischemic Stroke.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) and functional outcome after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is unclear. Previous studies are limited by small sample sizes and heterogeneity. METHODS: We performed a 1-stage individual patient data meta-analysis to investigate associations between dCA and functional outcome after AIS. Participating centers were identified through a systematic search of the literature and direct invitation. We included centers with dCA data within 1 year of AIS in adults aged over 18 years, excluding intracerebral or subarachnoid hemorrhage. Data were obtained on phase, gain, coherence, and autoregulation index derived from transfer function analysis at low-frequency and very low-frequency bands. Cerebral blood velocity, arterial pressure, end-tidal carbon dioxide, heart rate, stroke severity and sub-type, and comorbidities were collected where available. Data were grouped into 4 time points after AIS: <24 hours, 24 to 72 hours, 4 to 7 days, and >3 months. The modified Rankin Scale assessed functional outcome at 3 months. Modified Rankin Scale was analyzed as both dichotomized (0 to 2 versus 3 to 6) and ordinal (modified Rankin Scale scores, 0-6) outcomes. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted to identify significant relationships between dCA parameters, comorbidities, and outcomes, for each time point using generalized linear (dichotomized outcome), or cumulative link (ordinal outcome) mixed models. The participating center was modeled as a random intercept to generate odds ratios with 95% CIs. RESULTS: The sample included 384 individuals (35% women) from 7 centers, aged 66.3±13.7 years, with predominantly nonlacunar stroke (n=348, 69%). In the affected hemisphere, higher phase at very low-frequency predicted better outcome (dichotomized modified Rankin Scale) at <24 (crude odds ratios, 2.17 [95% CI, 1.47-3.19]; P<0.001) hours, 24-72 (crude odds ratios, 1.95 [95% CI, 1.21-3.13]; P=0.006) hours, and phase at low-frequency predicted outcome at 3 (crude odds ratios, 3.03 [95% CI, 1.10-8.33]; P=0.032) months. These results remained after covariate adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: Greater transfer function analysis-derived phase was associated with improved functional outcome at 3 months after AIS. dCA parameters in the early phase of AIS may help to predict functional outcome.

Deciphering the role of PGRMC2 in the human endometrium during the menstrual cycle and in vitro decidualization using an in vitro approach.

STUDY QUESTION: What is the human endometrial non-classical progesterone receptor (PGR) membrane component 2 (PGRMC2) expression pattern throughout the menstrual cycle and what role does it play during decidualization? SUMMARY ANSWER: Endometrial PGRMC2 expression fluctuates during the human menstrual cycle and is abundantly expressed in human endometrial stromal cells (hEnSCs) during in vitro decidualization, process where PGRMC2 is involved in embryo implantation-related pathways. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: The endometrial response to progesterone is mediated by the classical and non-classical PGRs. We previously demonstrated that PGR membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) is critical for endometrial function, embryo implantation, and future placentation, however, the role(s) of PGRMC2, which is structurally similar to PGRMC1, have not been studied in the human endometrium. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This prospective study comprehensively evaluated the endometrial expression of PGRMC2 throughout the human menstrual cycle and during in vitro decidualization of hEnSCs (isolated from 77 endometrial biopsies that were collected from 66 oocyte donors), using immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, western blot, transcriptomic, and proteomic analyses. In addition, functional analysis was carried out to validate the implication of PGRMC2 in hEnSCs during embryo invasion using an in vitro outgrowth model. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: In vitro decidualization of hEnSCs was induced using co-treatment with cAMP and medroxyprogesterone 17-acetate progestin, and evaluated by measuring prolactin by ELISA and F-actin immunostaining. RT-qPCR was employed to compare expression with other PGRs. To reveal the function of PGRMC2 during the decidualization process, we specifically knocked down PGRMC2 with siRNAs and performed RNA-seq and quantitative proteomics techniques (SWATH-MS). The common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and proteins (DEPs) were considered for downstream functional enrichment analysis. Finally, to verify its implication in the trophoblast invasion, an outgrowth model was carried out where hEnSCs with silenced PGRMC2 were co-cultured with human trophoblastic spheroids (JEG-3) following in vitro decidualization. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: In contrast to PGRMC1 and classical PGRs, endometrial PGRMC2 gene expression was significantly lower during the late- versus mid-secretory phase (P < 0.05). Accordingly, the elevated PGRMC2 protein abundance observed in the endometrial epithelial glands throughout the menstrual cycle dropped in the late secretory phase, when abundance decreased in all endometrial compartments. Nevertheless, PGRMC2 protein increased during the mid-secretory phase in stromal and glandular cells, and PGRMC2 mRNA (P < 0.0001) and protein (P < 0.001) levels were significantly enhanced in the membranes/organelles of decidualized hEnSCs, compared to non-decidualized hEnSCs. Notably, PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 mRNA were significantly more abundant than classical PGRs throughout menstrual cycle phases and in decidualized and non-decidualized hEnSCs (P < 0.05). RNA-seq and proteomics data revealed 4687 DEGs and 28 DEPs, respectively, in decidualized hEnSCs after PGRMC2 silencing. While functional enrichment analysis showed that the 2420 upregulated genes were mainly associated with endoplasmic reticulum function, vesicular transport, morphogenesis, angiogenesis, cell migration, and cell adhesion, the 2267 downregulated genes were associated with aerobic respiration and protein biosynthesis. The protein enrichment analysis showed that 4 upregulated and 24 downregulated proteins were related to aerobic respiration, cellular response, metabolism, localization of endoplasmic reticulum proteins, and ribonucleoside biosynthesis routes. Finally, PGRMC2 knockdown significantly compromised the ability of the decidualized hEnSCs to support trophoblast expansion in an outgrowth model (P < 0.05). LARGE-SCALE DATA: Transcriptomic data are available via NCBI's Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) under GEO Series accession number GSE251843 and proteomic data via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD048494. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The functional analyses were limited by the discrete number of human endometrial biopsies. A larger sample size is required to further investigate the potential role(s) of PGRMC2 during embryo implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. Further, the results obtained in the present work should be taken with caution, as the use of a pure primary endometrial stromal population differentiated in vitro does not fully represent the heterogeneity of the endometrium in vivo, nor the paracrine communications occurring between the distinct endometrial cell types. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The repression of endometrial PGRMC2 during the late- versus mid-secretory phase, together with its overexpression during decidualization and multiple implications with embryo implantation not only highlighted the unknown roles of PGRMC2 in female reproduction but also the potential to exploit PGRMC2 signaling pathways to improve assisted reproduction treatments in the future. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This research was funded by Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII) granted to F.D. (PI20/00405 and PI23/00860), co-funded by the European Union. Y.M.-L. was supported by a predoctoral research grant from Generalitat Valenciana (ACIF/2019/262). R.G.-M. was supported by Generalitat Valenciana (CIAPOT/2022/15). P.d.C. was supported by a predoctoral grant for training in research into health (PFIS FI20/00086) from the Instituto de Salud Carlos III. I.D.-H. was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities (FPU18/01550). A.P. was supported by the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PFIS FI18/00009). This research was also supported by IVI Foundation-RMA Global (1911-FIVI-103-FD). The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Enhancement of neurogenesis and cognition through intranasal co-delivery of galanin receptor 2 (GALR2) and neuropeptide Y receptor 1 (NPY1R) agonists: a potential pharmacological strategy for cognitive dysfunctions.

BACKGROUND: Spatial memory deficits and reduced neuronal survival contribute to cognitive decline seen in the aging process. Current treatments are limited, emphasizing the need for innovative therapeutic strategies. This research explored the combined effects of intranasally co-administered galanin receptor 2 (GALR2) and neuropeptide Y1 receptor (NPY1R) agonists, recognized for their neural benefits, on spatial memory, neuronal survival, and differentiation in adult rats. After intranasal co-delivery of the GALR2 agonist M1145 and a NPY1R agonist to adult rats, spatial memory was tested with the object-in-place task 3 weeks later. We examined neuronal survival and differentiation by assessing BrdU-IR profiles and doublecortin (DCX) labeled cells, respectively. We also used the GALR2 antagonist M871 to confirm GALR2's crucial role in promoting cell growth. RESULTS: Co-administration improved spatial memory and increased the survival rate of mature neurons. The positive effect of GALR2 in cell proliferation was confirmed by the nullifying effects of its antagonist. The treatment boosted DCX-labeled newborn neurons and altered dendritic morphology, increasing cells with mature dendrites. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that intranasal co-delivery of GALR2 and NPY1R agonists improves spatial memory, boosts neuronal survival, and influences neuronal differentiation in adult rats. The significant role of GALR2 is emphasized, suggesting new potential therapeutic strategies for cognitive decline.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of immunocompromised critically ill patients with cytomegalovirus end-organ disease: a multicenter retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in patients with cellular immune deficiencies is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. However, data on CMV end-organ disease (CMV-EOD) in critically ill, immunocompromised patients are scarce. Our objective here was to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of CMV-EOD in this population. METHODS: We conducted a multicenter, international, retrospective, observational study in adults who had CMV-EOD and were admitted to any of 18 intensive care units (ICUs) in France, Israel, and Spain in January 2010-December 2021. Patients with AIDS were excluded. We collected the clinical characteristics and outcomes of each patient. Survivors and non-survivors were compared, and multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for hospital mortality. RESULTS: We studied 185 patients, including 80 (43.2%) with hematologic malignancies, 55 (29.7%) with solid organ transplantation, 31 (16.8%) on immunosuppressants, 16 (8.6%) with solid malignancies, and 3 (1.6%) with primary immunodeficiencies. The most common CMV-EOD was pneumonia (n = 115, [62.2%] including 55 [47.8%] with a respiratory co-pathogen), followed by CMV gastrointestinal disease (n = 64 [34.6%]). More than one organ was involved in 16 (8.8%) patients. Histopathological evidence was obtained for 10/115 (8.7%) patients with pneumonia and 43/64 (67.2%) with GI disease. Other opportunistic infections were diagnosed in 69 (37.3%) patients. Hospital mortality was 61.4% overall and was significantly higher in the group with hematologic malignancies (75% vs. 51%, P = 0.001). Factors independently associated with higher hospital mortality were hematologic malignancy with active graft-versus-host disease (OR 5.02; 95% CI 1.15-27.30), CMV pneumonia (OR 2.57; 95% CI 1.13-6.03), lymphocytes < 0.30 × 109/L at diagnosis of CMV-EOD (OR 2.40; 95% CI 1.05-5.69), worse SOFA score at ICU admission (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.04-1.35), and older age (OR 1.04; 95% CI 1.01-1.07). CONCLUSIONS: Mortality was high in critically ill, immunocompromised patients with CMV-EOD and varied considerably with the cause of immunodeficiency and organ involved by CMV. Three of the four independent risk factors identified here are also known to be associated with higher mortality in the absence of CMV-EOD. CMV pneumonia was rarely proven by histopathology and was the most severe CMV-EOD.

Platelet transfusions in adult thrombocytopenic ICU patients: Protocol for a sub-study of the PLOT-ICU cohort.

INTRODUCTION: Platelet transfusions are frequently used in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, but contemporary epidemiological data are sparse. We aim to present contemporary international data on the use of platelet transfusions in adult ICU patients with thrombocytopenia. METHODS: This is a protocol and statistical analysis plan for a post hoc sub-study of 504 thrombocytopenic patients from the 'Thrombocytopenia and platelet transfusions in ICU patients: an international inception cohort study (PLOT-ICU)'. The primary outcome will be the number of patients receiving platelet transfusion in the ICU reported according to the type of product received (apheresis-derived versus pooled whole-blood-derived transfusions). Secondary platelet transfusion outcomes will include platelet transfusion volumes; timing of platelet transfusion; approach to platelet transfusion dosing (fixed dosing versus weight-based dosing) and platelet count increments for prophylactic transfusions. Secondary clinical outcomes will include the number of patients receiving red blood cell- and plasma transfusions during ICU stay; the number of patients who bled in the ICU, the number of patients who had a new thrombosis in the ICU, and the number of patients who died. The duration of follow-up was 90 days. Baseline characteristics and secondary clinical outcomes will be stratified according to platelet transfusion status in the ICU and severity of thrombocytopenia. Data will be presented descriptively. CONCLUSIONS: The outlined study will provide detailed epidemiological data on the use of platelet transfusions in adult ICU patients with thrombocytopenia using data from the large international PLOT-ICU cohort study. The findings will inform the design of future randomised trials evaluating platelet transfusions in ICU patients.

Platelet transfusions in adult ICU patients with thrombocytopenia: A sub-study of the PLOT-ICU inception cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Platelet transfusions are frequently used in the intensive care unit (ICU), but current practices including used product types, volumes, doses and effects are unknown. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Sub-study of the inception cohort study 'Thrombocytopenia and Platelet Transfusions in the ICU (PLOT-ICU)', including acutely admitted, adult ICU patients with thrombocytopenia (platelet count <150 × 109/L). The primary outcome was the number of patients receiving platelet transfusion in ICU by product type. Secondary outcomes included platelet transfusion details, platelet increments, bleeding, other transfusions and mortality. RESULTS: Amongst 504 patients with thrombocytopenia from 43 hospitals in 10 countries in Europe and the United States, 20.8% received 565 platelet transfusions; 61.0% received pooled products, 21.9% received apheresis products and 17.1% received both with a median of 2 (interquartile range 1-4) days from admission to first transfusion. The median volume per transfusion was 253 mL (180-308 mL) and pooled products accounted for 59.1% of transfusions, however, this varied across countries. Most centres (73.8%) used fixed dosing (medians ranging from 2.0 to 3.5 × 1011 platelets/transfusion) whilst some (mainly in France) used weight-based dosing (ranging from 0.5 to 0.7 × 1011 platelets per 10 kg body weight). The median platelet count increment for a single prophylactic platelet transfusion was 2 (-1 to 8) × 109/L. Outcomes of patients with thrombocytopenia who did and did not receive platelet transfusions varied. CONCLUSIONS: Among acutely admitted, adult ICU patients with thrombocytopenia, 20.8% received platelet transfusions in ICU of whom most received pooled products, but considerable variation was observed in product type, volumes and doses across countries. Prophylactic platelet transfusions were associated with limited increases in platelet counts.

Ebstein anomaly: 3D virtual and physical models from obstetrical ultrasound data.

3D virtual and physical models from ultrasound scan data allow a 3D spatial view of congenital heart anomalies, interactive discussion among a multidisciplinary team, and improved parental counseling. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of 3D physical and virtual models of a fetal Ebstein anomaly.

Zika virus as a new pathogenic agent within the Toxoplasma gondii, Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex (TORCH) virus family: where do we stand?

Viral infections in low-income countries such as Brazil pose a significant challenge for medical authorities, with epidemics such as Zika virus infection having lasting effects. The increase in microcephaly among newborns has prompted investigations into the association between Zika virus and this congenital syndrome. The severity and prevalence of microcephaly led to the declaration of national and international emergencies. Extensive research has been conducted to understand the teratogenic effects of Zika virus, particularly its impact on neural progenitor cells in the fetal brain. Various pre- and postnatal imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and postnatal computed tomography (CT), have played crucial roles in diagnosing and monitoring malformations linked to congenital Zika virus infection in the central nervous system (CNS). These modalities can detect brain parenchymal abnormalities, calcifications, cerebral atrophy, and callosal anomalies. Additionally, three-dimensional ultrasound and fetal MRI provide detailed anatomical images, while CT can identify calcifications that are not easily detected by other methods. Despite advancements in imaging, there are still unanswered questions and ongoing challenges in comprehending the long-term effects and developmental impairments in children affected by Zika virus. Radiologists continue to play a crucial role in diagnosing and assisting in the management of these cases.

Is there a role for magnetic resonance imaging in cesarean scar pregnancy after the first trimester?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide additional information in cases of cesarean scar pregnancy beyond the first trimester. MRI and 3D reconstructions can demonstrate the relationships between the uterus, cervix, bladder, and placenta, improving the spatial perspective of the pelvic anatomy in cases requiring surgical management. MRI and 3D reconstructions can also provide more comprehensive images for parental counseling, virtual and face-to-face multidisciplinary team discussion, and medical record storage.

Fetal tetralogy of Fallot: Three-dimensional virtual and physical models from ultrasound scan data findings.

Three-dimensional reconstructions provide a spatial view of the congenital heart disease with a better understanding of the pathology for parents and allow interactive discussion among the medical team (maternal-fetal medicine specialist, neonatology, pediatric cardiology, and cardiovascular surgeon) and improve both objective knowledge and learner satisfaction for medical students.

Heterotopic twin pregnancy in unicornuate uterus and non-communicating rudimentary horn with survival of both fetuses: Magnetic resonance imaging and 3D reconstructions findings.

We reported a case of heterotopic twin pregnancy in a unicornuate uterus with a non-communicating rudimentary horn with survival of both fetuses. The diagnosis was made late at 28 weeks of gestation, with suspicion raised by ultrasound and confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). During hospitalization, obstetric ultrasound with color Doppler was performed every 2 days to assess fetal well-being and myometrial thickness, which was determined by measurements of the uterine wall at the accessory horn. Elective cesarean section was performed at 33 + 5 weeks of gestation. Delivery started with the fetus in the rudimentary horn, with subsequent extraction of the fetus in the unicornate uterus. Three-dimensional virtual reconstruction allowed a spatial view of the both uterus and fetuses with better understanding of the obstetrical condition by the parents and interactive discussion by the multidisciplinary medical team.

Placenta acrreta spectrum-first trimester, 2D and 3D ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging findings.

BACKGROUND: The term placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is commonly used to describe abnormal trophoblastic invasion of the myometrium, serosa, or organs adjacent to the uterus. It is of great obstetric importance because of its high morbidity, risk of hemorrhage, admission to the intensive care unit, risk of hysterectomy, and high risk of iatrogenic pelvic lesions and even death. These risks are minimized when prenatal diagnosis is performed. Prenatal diagnosis of PAS is based on imaging findings suggestive of abnormal and pathologically adherent placentation, including placental lacunae (intraplacental sonolucent spaces), disruption of the bladder-uterine serosa interface, turbulent flow on color Doppler, and bridging vessels. OBJECTIVE: In this article, we review the major prenatal imaging features of PAS using diagnostic modalities (first trimester, two-dimensional ultrasound, three-dimensional ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging) for the diagnosis of PAS.

Available evidence on fetal liver changes detected by ultrasound in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus: Systematic review.

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the available scientific literature on ultrasound-detected fetal liver changes in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to explore the potential of these markers to inform clinical management and improve outcomes. A total of four articles investigating fetal liver changes in GDM pregnancies were selected. The studies varied in methodology, gestational age studied, and diagnostic criteria for GDM. Fetal liver indices, such as fetal liver length and fetal liver volume, emerged as potential markers for identifying GDM and predicting adverse outcomes. Studies suggest an association between fetal liver changes and GDM, with implications for both maternal glycemic control and fetal metabolic adaptation. Variability in study methodology highlights the need for standardized approaches to assess fetal hepatic indices and their correlation with GDM outcomes.

Prenatal diagnosis of fetal left ventricular diverticulum: 3D virtual and physical reconstruction models.

Congenital diverticulum is a very rare congenital heart disease. 3D virtual and physical models from ultrasound scan data provide a spatial visualization and better understanding of congenital heart disease to the parents and support possible surgical procedures.

Proteomic Profiling Identifies Candidate Diagnostic Biomarkers of Hydrosalpinx in Endometrial Fluid: A Pilot Study.

Hydrosalpinx is a fluid occlusion and distension of the fallopian tubes, often resulting from pelvic inflammatory disease, which reduces the success of artificial reproductive technologies (ARTs) by 50%. Tubal factors account for approximately 25% of infertility cases, but their underlying molecular mechanisms and functional impact on other reproductive tissues remain poorly understood. This proteomic profiling study applied sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra mass spectrometry (SWATH-MS) to study hydrosalpinx cyst fluid and pre- and post-salpingectomy endometrial fluid. Among the 967 proteins identified, we found 19 and 17 candidate biomarkers for hydrosalpinx in pre- and post-salpingectomy endometrial fluid, respectively. Salpingectomy significantly affected 76 endometrial proteins, providing insights into the enhanced immune response and inflammation present prior to intervention, and enhanced coagulation cascades and wound healing processes occurring one month after intervention. These findings confirmed that salpingectomy reverses the hydrosalpinx-related functional impairments in the endometrium and set a foundation for further biomarker validation and the development of less-invasive diagnostic strategies for hydrosalpinx.

Urinary L-FABP as an Early Biomarker for Pediatric Acute Kidney Injury Following Cardiac Surgery with Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) following surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB-AKI) is common in pediatrics. Urinary liver-type fatty acid binding protein (uL-FABP) increases in some kidney diseases and may indicate CPB-AKI earlier than current methods. The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to evaluate the potential role of uL-FABP in the early diagnosis and prediction of CPB-AKI. Databases Pubmed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched on 12 November 2023, using the MeSH terms "Children", "CPB", "L-FABP", and "Acute Kidney Injury". Included papers were revised. AUC values from similar studies were pooled by meta-analysis, performed using random- and fixed-effect models, with p < 0.05. Of 508 studies assessed, nine were included, comprising 1658 children, of whom 561 (33.8%) developed CPB-AKI. Significantly higher uL-FABP levels in AKI versus non-AKI patients first manifested at baseline to 6 h post-CPB. At 6 h, uL-FABP correlated with CPB duration (r = 0.498, p = 0.036), postoperative serum creatinine (r = 0.567, p < 0.010), and length of hospital stay (r = 0.722, p < 0.0001). Importantly, uL-FABP at baseline (AUC = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.64-0.89, n = 365), 2 h (AUC = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.52-0.90, n = 509), and 6 h (AUC = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.72-0.80, n = 509) diagnosed CPB-AKI earlier. Hence, higher uL-FABP levels associate with worse clinical parameters and may diagnose and predict CPB-AKI earlier.

A Systematic Review of the Predictive and Diagnostic Uses of Neuroinflammation Biomarkers for Epileptogenesis.

A central role for neuroinflammation in epileptogenesis has recently been suggested by several investigations. This systematic review explores the role of inflammatory mediators in epileptogenesis, its association with seizure severity, and its correlation with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). The study analysed articles published in JCR journals from 2019 to 2024. The search strategy comprised the MESH, free terms of "Neuroinflammation", and selective searches for the following single biomarkers that had previously been selected from the relevant literature: "High mobility group box 1/HMGB1", "Toll-Like-Receptor 4/TLR-4", "Interleukin-1/IL-1", "Interleukin-6/IL-6", "Transforming growth factor beta/TGF-ß", and "Tumour necrosis factor-alpha/TNF-α". These queries were all combined with the MESH terms "Epileptogenesis" and "Epilepsy". We found 243 articles related to epileptogenesis and neuroinflammation, with 356 articles from selective searches by biomarker type. After eliminating duplicates, 324 articles were evaluated, with 272 excluded and 55 evaluated by the authors. A total of 21 articles were included in the qualitative evaluation, including 18 case-control studies, 2 case series, and 1 prospective study. As conclusion, this systematic review provides acceptable support for five biomarkers, including TNF-α and some of its soluble receptors (sTNFr2), HMGB1, TLR-4, CCL2 and IL-33. Certain receptors, cytokines, and chemokines are examples of neuroinflammation-related biomarkers that may be crucial for the early diagnosis of refractory epilepsy or may be connected to the control of epileptic seizures. Their value will be better defined by future studies.