Nevin Manimala

Psychon Bull Rev. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.3758/s13423-025-02717-2. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Are left-handers more creative than right-handers? In both popular belief and scientific literature, left-handedness is linked with higher creativity. In a qualitative review supported by meta-analyses, here we evaluated whether left- or mixed-handers are more creative than right-handers, as measured by tests of divergent thinking, and evaluated whether left- or mixed-handers are overrepresented in creative professions. We argue that plausible mechanisms for a link between creativity and handedness can be found within influential theories of the neural basis of creativity. However, we found no evidence that left- or mixed-handers are more creative than right-handers; on the contrary, right-handers scored statistically higher on one standard test of divergent thinking (the Alternate Uses Test). Additionally, although left- and mixed-handers may be overrepresented in Art and Music, they are underrepresented in creative professions, in general. Both right and left-handers tend to believe that left-handers are more creative, but this belief is not supported by the available empirical evidence.

PMID:40579679 | DOI:10.3758/s13423-025-02717-2

Insights Imaging. 2025 Jun 27;16(1):137. doi: 10.1186/s13244-025-02023-4.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To compare the image acquisition time, total examination time, image quality, and technical reliability of three free-breathing MRCP techniques: BioMatrix-triggered (BM-MRCP), respiratory-gating triggered using respiratory bellows (RG-MRCP), and navigator-triggered (NT-MRCP).

METHODS: A prospective intra-individual comparison was performed in 47 patients undergoing 3.0-T MRCP for suspected pancreatic and biliary diseases. Two patients with technique adaptability limitations were included in the reliability analysis as “technical failures.” For primary analyses, data from 45 patients completing all three techniques were used. Image quality was evaluated by three blinded radiologists (experience: 5, 10, 16 years). Statistical analysis included Friedman tests with Bonferroni correction (p < 0.0167).

RESULTS: Median total examination times were significantly shorter for BM-MRCP (218 [48] seconds) compared to RG-MRCP (228 [56] seconds) and NT-MRCP (259 [53] seconds) (p < 0.05). BM-MRCP and RG-MRCP had comparable image acquisition times, both significantly faster than NT-MRCP (p < 0.05). BM-MRCP provided superior image quality for key anatomical structures (p < 0.05), higher SNR, and CNR compared to RG-MRCP and NT-MRCP (p < 0.05). Image contrast showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). Two patients experienced failures with RG-MRCP or NT-MRCP due to breathing issues, while BM-MRCP had no failures.

CONCLUSION: BM-MRCP significantly reduces examination times while achieving superior image quality and technical reliability. Its integration into clinical workflows enhances efficiency, reduces technician workload, and improves patient-centered imaging.

CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: BioMatrix-gating 3D-MRCP enhances imaging efficiency and diagnostic accuracy for the biliary and pancreatic duct systems. By reducing scan times and improving workflow, it supports patient comfort and compliance. Its simplicity and reliability also make it ideal for high-throughput clinical settings.

KEY POINTS: BioMatrix-triggered (BM)-MRCP shortens examination time, aiding patients with compliance or limitations. BM-MRCP offers superior image quality with reduced motion artifacts and higher clarity. BM respiratory sensors streamline workflows, boost reliability, and enhance patient comfort.

PMID:40579676 | DOI:10.1186/s13244-025-02023-4

Odontology. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.1007/s10266-025-01136-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficiency of pH cycling models to induce enamel experimental subsurface lesions and to enhance enamel remineralization in vitro. Enamel blocks (n = 50) were obtained from the buccal surface of human permanent incisors and canines and assigned to five independent groups (n = 10/gp). In Group D1, enamel blocks were subjected to a demineralizing solution, and in Group D2 a demineralization pH cycling model was used to induce an experimental subsurface lesion. In Group R, enamel blocks with subsurface-induced lesions were treated with fluoride varnish and submitted to a remineralization pH cycling model. Enamel blocks were investigated with scanning electron microscope-energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Quantitative data were statistically analyzed (repeated measures ANOVA, Bonferroni, p < 0.05). EDX revealed significant differences with respect to atomic percentage (At%) of calcium, phosphate, fluorine (F), carbon, and oxygen between groups (p < 0.05; repeated measures ANOVA). Group R revealed the highest F (At%) on the enamel surface (0.71 ± 0.2) (p < 0.05). FTIR revealed variations in PO₄^3- and CO₃^2- characteristic bands between groups in correlation with enamel surface demineralization and remineralization. In this study, the demineralization pH cycling model (Group D2) investigated with SEM-EDX and FTIR simulated chemical and structural characteristics of enamel natural subsurface carious lesions. Surface demineralization was created in enamel when a demineralization solution was used for induction of a caries-like lesion (Group D1), without any subsurface created lesion. Remineralization pH cycling model tested in Group R revealed an effective enamel remineralization in SEM-EDX and FTIR.

PMID:40579674 | DOI:10.1007/s10266-025-01136-y

Stem Cell Rev Rep. 2025 Jun 28. doi: 10.1007/s12015-025-10929-1. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The limited regenerative capacity of epidermal cells following tissue injury impairs wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), contributing to elevated rates of amputation and mortality. Recent advances have demonstrated that somatic cells can be reprogrammed into diverse cell types through the application of defined reprogramming factors. This study aims to develop a safe, efficient, and clinically translatable strategy for skin regeneration via direct lineage reprogramming.

METHODS: We established a novel reprogramming approach using a combination of two factors, BMI1 and FGFR2b (termed B2), to induce fibroblast-to-keratinocyte-like cells (iKCs) conversion in vitro and delivered via adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) in vivo. Molecular and functional characteristics of iKCs were evaluated by qRT-PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, transcriptomic analysis, and in vitro differentiation assays. A diabetic (db/db) mouse skin wound model was used to assess the regenerative potential and therapeutic effects. Statistical significance was determined using Student’s t-test or one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS: iKCs-B2 (Keratinocyte-like cells form from B2-infected L929) exhibited both morphological and functional characteristics comparable to primary keratinocytes. In vivo, AAV9-mediated delivery of B2 factors significantly promoted wound closure, reconstructed stratified epithelium, restored barrier function, and markedly reduced the mortality rate.

CONCLUSIONS: This study presents a safe and effective direct reprogramming strategy for skin regeneration, bypassing the pluripotent stage and avoiding cell transplantation. The B2 combination provides a novel molecular tool for wound repair and offers translational potential for treating non-healing wounds such as DFUs.

PMID:40579673 | DOI:10.1007/s12015-025-10929-1

Geroscience. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.1007/s11357-025-01777-5. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Dysregulation of lipid metabolism is increasingly recognized as a key factor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Unfortunately, an accurate lipidomic fingerprints in AD patients’ biofluids remains challenging. A comprehensive analysis of plasma samples from 26 patients with AD and 30 healthy individuals was performed using untargeted and targeted lipidomics techniques with strict lipid annotation criteria. By monitoring characteristic fragments per precursor, we achieved precise lipid characterization and quantification for approximately 270 lipid species. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed a distinct lipid profile between AD patients and controls, with 72 lipids significantly altered (FC > 1.5 or < 0.667, VIP > 1, P < 0.05). Notably, a biomarker analysis based on the multivariate exploratory receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve identified a comprehensive panel consisting of 10 novel lipids as potential markers for AD, achieving 98.2% accuracy with a favorable auxiliary diagnostic value (area under curve of 0.995). Additionally, the higher levels of SM(d18:1/16:0), SM(d18:1/18:1), and LPE 18:0 were strongly correlated with the clinical dementia rating (CDR) and mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scores, underscoring the therapeutic potential of lipid modulation in AD. These findings reveal the intricate relationship between lipid alterations and AD pathology and emphasize the necessity for LC-MRM/MS lipidomics with rigorous criteria in the discovery of reliable biomarkers, enriching our understanding of lipid roles in neurodegenerative processes and informing future mechanistic investigations and drug target development.

PMID:40579668 | DOI:10.1007/s11357-025-01777-5

World J Pediatr. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.1007/s12519-025-00932-4. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The risk-benefit balance and safety of postnatal corticosteroid use for chronic lung disease (PNCSCLD) in preterm infants is a controversial matter. Our objective was to determine the trends in the use of PNCSCLD over eleven years and to analyze the neurodevelopmental consequences of PNCSCLD in preterm infants at 18-42 months of corrected age.

METHODS: The data for this retrospective population-based cohort study were obtained from ten tertiary neonatal intensive care units across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, Australia. Preterm infants < 29⁺⁰ weeks’ gestation born between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2017, who were alive at discharge, without any major congenital anomalies were included and analyzed based on their PNCSCLD status.

RESULTS: Over eleven years, 611 (14.3%) out of 4258 infants received PNCSCLD. Among the 3386 eligible infants, 2636 (77.8%) underwent neurodevelopmental follow-up and were included in the final analysis. The rate of PNCSCLD use increased from 12.4% in 2007 to 19.6% in 2017. Similarly, the rate of moderate to severe functional disability (MSFD) increased from 8.8% in 2007 to 16.1% in 2017. Propensity-adjusted analysis revealed a greater odds ratio (OR) for MSFD in the PNCSCLD group than in the control group [average treatment effect: OR = 1.252, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.185-1.322, P ≤ 0.001; average treatment effect on the treated group: OR = 1.104, 95% CI = 1.031-1.184, P = 0.005].

CONCLUSIONS: PNCSCLD use was associated with a greater incidence of MSFD. Clinicians should exercise caution when using PNCSCLD.

PMID:40579659 | DOI:10.1007/s12519-025-00932-4

Diabetologia. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.1007/s00125-025-06473-9. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Excess type 2 diabetes mellitus in minority ethnic groups remains unexplained, although greater fat mass makes a strong contribution. We hypothesised that height and weight through infancy in South Asian and Black African/Caribbean subgroups is more adverse than in White populations. These, allied to poor socioeconomic position, determine greater fat mass at age 7 years.

METHODS: We report a secondary analysis from the UK Millennium Cohort Study, including 12,280 births of White ethnicity, and 358 of Indian, 650 of Pakistani, 268 of Bangladeshi, 163 of Black Caribbean and 277 of Black African ethnicity between 2000 and 2002. Birthweight was reported, and heights and weights were measured at ages 3, 5, 7, 11, 14 and 17 years. Bioimpedance captured fat mass, indexed to height, at ages 7, 11, 14 and 17 years. Standardised differences in anthropometry, using the White group as the comparator, were calculated. We explored the effect of early growth on ethnic differences in fat-mass index at age 7 years. Confounders included maternal anthropometry, smoking, infant breastfeeding, education, parental income and area-level socioeconomic deprivation.

RESULTS: All minority ethnic subgroups had lower birthweight and accelerated infant height and weight growth compared with White children. By age 3 years, mean height was greater in all minority ethnic groups than in White children. This height advantage was progressively lost, first in Bangladeshi children. By age 17 years in boys/girls, Indians were 1.77/2.48 cm, Pakistanis 2.24/3.44 cm, Bangladeshis 4.83/5.95 cm and Black Caribbeans 1.64/0.49 cm shorter than White children. Heights were equivalent in Black African children. By age 17 years, all South Asian children were lighter, and Black African/Caribbean children heavier, than White children. The anthropometric gradient by ethnicity in children mirrored that in mothers. Girls from minority ethnic groups were more likely to be menstruating by age 11 years than White girls (range 12-27% vs 9%). At age 7 years, standardised fat-mass index (kg/m²) in boys/girls was 0.17/0.01 SDs greater in Indian, 0.21/0.04 in Pakistani, 0.18/0.16 in Bangladeshi, 0.48/0.35 in Black Caribbean and 0.37/0.75 in Black African children than in White children. These differences persisted to age 17 years. Weight gain to age 3 years, and in Black Africans/Caribbeans, adverse individual and neighbourhood socioeconomic position, contributed to ethnic differences in fat mass.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: Minority ethnic groups in the UK have poorer childhood growth than White children, achieving shorter height, greater fat mass and earlier female puberty. Mirroring of maternal and offspring ethnic subgroup gradients in height and weight indicates intergenerational transmission. Persistent adverse socioeconomic circumstances perpetuate ethnic adversity in early life accrual of body fat.

DATA AVAILABILITY: All MCS data used in this analysis are available from UK Data Service with an end user licence ( https://ukdataservice.ac.uk/find-data/ ).

PMID:40579638 | DOI:10.1007/s00125-025-06473-9

J Racial Ethn Health Disparities. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.1007/s40615-025-02523-5. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To assess providers’ substance use screening/testing practices in patient care and identify disparities in their application. We hypothesized that patient race and social vulnerability (SV) are independently and jointly associated with increased rates of provider self-reported substance use screening/testing.

METHODS: A 2 × 2 factorial vignette design was used to survey OB/GYN, Midwifery, and Family Medicine providers. The patients’ age and medical characteristics were identical in each vignette, but two elements varied dichotomously: (1) the patient’s race (Black vs. White) and (2) the patient’s level of SV. Descriptive statistics were computed to assess respondent characteristics. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests were performed to assess disparities in substance use screening/testing practices.

RESULTS: Providers shown the SV patient vignette, compared to providers shown the vignette for a non-SV patient, reported that the patient’s housing (41% vs. 10%, p < 0.01), substance use history (97% vs. 67%, p < 0.01), and the number of prenatal care visits (59% vs. 27%, p = 0.02) influenced their decision to screen/test the patient for substance use. Providers shown the vignette for the SV Black patient were more likely to report the patient’s housing (47% vs. 6%, p = 0.04), substance use history (93% vs. 56%, p = 0.01), and gestational age (20% vs. 0%, p = 0.03) influenced their screening/testing recommendations.

CONCLUSION: Providers reported that the patient’s level of SV influenced their decision to recommend screening/testing. The combination of race and SV had the largest impact on reported decisions regarding screening/testing practices. The results of this study highlight the need for standardized institutional substance use detection protocols to reduce provider bias and discrimination in substance use screening/testing based on individual patient demographics.

PMID:40579635 | DOI:10.1007/s40615-025-02523-5

J Racial Ethn Health Disparities. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.1007/s40615-025-02490-x. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Racial disparities in surgical outcomes are well documented across various procedures, including oncological and reconstructive breast surgery. However, it remains unclear whether these inequalities extend to reduction mammoplasty.

METHODS: We queried the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database between 2011 and 2022 to identify adult female patients who underwent breast reduction and reported their racial identity. 30-day postoperative outcomes were compared across four racial groups-Asian, Black/African American, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander-against White patients using univariate and confounder-adjusted multivariate analyses.

RESULTS: The study cohort included 26,329 female patients, with 64% (n = 16,930) identified as White, 34% (n = 8,873) as Black/African American, 1.2% (n = 326) as Asian, 0.41% (n = 109) as American Indian/Alaska Native, and 0.35% (n = 91) as Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander. A total of 1,660 adverse events (6.3%) occurred, with complication rates ranging from 4.0% (n = 13) in Asian patients to 6.5% (n = 1,108) in White patients. While breast reduction surgery was generally safe across all racial groups, multivariable analysis identified subtle yet statistically significant disparities: Black/African American patients had a significantly lower likelihood of overall (OR = 0.81) and surgical complications (OR = 0.65), including superficial incisional infections (OR = 0.50; all p < 0.001), but a higher risk of deep incisional infections (OR = 1.4; p = 0.013) and unplanned readmissions (OR = 1.3; p < 0.001). Asian patients demonstrated a significantly lower risk of surgical complications (OR = 0.23; p = 0.041).

CONCLUSION: Breast reduction surgery is generally safe across all racial groups; however, our findings also unveiled subtle racial disparities in its postoperative outcomes. Black/African American patients were found to have a lower risk of overall and surgical complications but were more susceptible to deep incisional infections and unplanned readmissions. Asians were significantly less likely to experience surgical complications. These results reinforce the strong safety profile of reduction mammoplasty while underscoring the need for further research into the underlying factors contributing to differential outcomes.

PMID:40579632 | DOI:10.1007/s40615-025-02490-x

Theor Appl Genet. 2025 Jun 27;138(7):163. doi: 10.1007/s00122-025-04948-2.

ABSTRACT

Multi-omics assisted prediction of disease resistance mechanisms using machine learning has the potential to accelerate the breeding of resistant legume varieties. Grain legumes, such as soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), and lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) play an important role in combating micronutrient malnutrition in the growing human population. However, plant diseases significantly reduce grain yield, causing 10-40% losses in major food crops. The genetic mechanisms associated with disease resistance in legumes have been widely studied using genomic approaches. Multi-omics data encompassing various biological layers such as the transcriptome, epigenome, proteome, and metabolome, in addition to the genome, enables researchers to gain a deeper understanding of these complementary layers and their roles in complex legume-pathogen interactions. Genomic prediction, used to select the best genotypes with desirable traits for breeding, has largely relied on genome-wide markers and statistical approaches to estimate the breeding values of individuals. Integrating multi-omics data into genomic prediction can be achieved using machine learning models, which can capture nonlinear relationships prevalent in high-dimensional data better than traditional statistical methods. This integration may enable more accurate predictions and identification of resistance mechanisms for breeding resistant legumes. Despite its potential, multi-omics integration for disease resistance prediction in legumes has been largely unexplored. In this review, we explore omics studies focusing on disease resistance in legumes and discuss how machine learning models can integrate multi-omics data for disease resistance prediction. Such multi-omics assisted prediction has the potential to reduce the breeding cycle for developing disease-resistant legume varieties.

PMID:40579624 | DOI:10.1007/s00122-025-04948-2