Tag: pubmed

Anim Cogn. 2025 Nov 23. doi: 10.1007/s10071-025-02028-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Studying Theory of Mind in non-verbal populations requires designing tasks that address the distinction between responding based on directly perceivable cues and additionally inferring others’ mental states. We designed and pre-registered an auditory version of a non-verbal change-of-location task, to investigate whether dogs are sensitive to a human communicator’s mental states about the location of food. With control conditions we ruled out alternative cognitive processes such as associative learning. Dogs (N = 240) could witness that food was hidden first in one opaque bucket (A) and then relocated to a second opaque bucket (B) by an experimenter. Before being allowed to retrieve the food from one of the buckets, dogs received a misleading suggestion (A) from the communicator, who could not see the scene. In all conditions, the communicator could hear food being hidden in A, due to the presence of bells on the lid of this bucket. We manipulated whether she could also hear that food was removed from A and relocated to B (true belief) or not (silent bells on B, leading to her false belief). Importantly, in both conditions the communicator behaved identically (present in the room, suggesting A). Dogs’ responses were not statistically different from those of a previous study using a similar change-of-location task in the visual domain (Lonardo et al. 288(1955), 2021, https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2021.0906). Dogs’ choices in the present study, however, did not differ significantly across conditions, suggesting that any auditory perspective-taking ability they might possess did not have a sufficiently large effect to be detected in this study.

PMID:41276726 | DOI:10.1007/s10071-025-02028-y

Odontology. 2025 Nov 23. doi: 10.1007/s10266-025-01260-9. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

We evaluated the effect of supplementary instrumentation on the removal of gutta-percha and compared the efficacy of three file systems with different metallurgical properties via micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Forty-two moderately curved mandibular molars were selected and divided into 3 groups (n = 14): group-PTG: ProTaper Gold, group-PTN: ProTaper Next, and group-VB: Vortex Blue. Only mesial roots with Vertucci type-IV configuration were included. Canals were instrumented and obturated with bioceramic sealer. Retreatment was performed using a retreatment file system, and supplementary instrumentation was completed according to experimental groups: ProTaper Next X4 (40/06), ProTaper Gold 40/06, and Vortex Blue 40/06. Initial, second (after using the retreatment file system), and final (after supplementary instrumentation) micro-CTs were obtained (resolution 85 kV, 118 µA, and 13.6 µA pixel size), and residual gutta-percha at apical, middle, and coronal thirds was calculated. One-way ANOVA and Student’s t test were performed for statistical analysis. While the first and second micro-CT values demonstrated a statistical difference (p < 0.05), there was no difference between the second and final micro-CT values. No differences were detected between group-PTN (96.89-98.32%), group-PTG (95.36-98.51%), and group-VB (%96.96-%99.38). Residual gutta-percha volumes were similar in mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals. Supplementary instrumentation did not decrease the amount of residual gutta-percha. Increasing the initial apical size by three sizes removed 98.18% to 99.38% of gutta-percha. ProTaper Next, ProTaper Gold, and Vortex Blue showed similar effects. In the apical third of mesiobuccal, ProTaper Gold and Vortex Blue eliminated gutta-percha more effectively than ProTaper Next.

PMID:41276710 | DOI:10.1007/s10266-025-01260-9

Discov Oncol. 2025 Nov 23. doi: 10.1007/s12672-025-04074-x. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to identify clinically relevant molecular signatures and biomarkers associated with post-translational modifications (PTMs) and RNA methylation in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) by integrating multi-omics data to elucidate tumorigenesis mechanisms and tumor microenvironment dynamics for potential diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.

METHODS: We analyzed bulk RNA-sequencing data from five GEO datasets, GSE16449, GSE46699, GSE53000, GSE53757, and GSE66272, with batch-effect correction using the sva package and single-cell RNA-seq data processed via Seurat v4 with Harmony integration. Differential expression analysis using limma identified PTM- and methylation-related gene signatures. Functional enrichment using clusterProfiler and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) revealed key modules linked to 20 PTM types and four RNA methylation patterns, m1A, m5C, m6A, and m7G. Machine learning using LASSO, SVM, and Random Forest, along with SHAP-based random forest modeling, selected and evaluated biomarkers. Immune infiltration was assessed via ssGSEA, and consensus clustering defined molecular subtypes. Statistical analyses using Wilcoxon and Kruskal-Wallis tests with FDR correction ensured robustness.

RESULTS: We identified 2,779 differentially expressed genes, including 14 significant PTM and methylation signatures including 11 PTMs, 3 methylation types, enriched in PI3K-Akt signaling and immune response pathways. WGCNA revealed four disease-associated modules tied to PTMs and RNA methylation. Single-cell analysis delineated 16 cell types, with T cells dominant in tumors and enhanced cell-cell interactions in high-modification groups. Machine learning identified PDIA3, STT3A, and USP4 as core biomarkers, with SHAP confirming STT3A’s predictive strength. Biomarkers showed elevated expression in ccRCC, correlating with dendritic and T cell infiltration. Consensus clustering defined two subtypes: C2 exhibited higher PTM/methylation-related gene expression, oncogenic pathway enrichment, and lower immune infiltration compared to C1.

CONCLUSION: This integrative multi-omics framework identifies PDIA3, STT3A, and USP4 as key biomarkers linked to PTMs and RNA methylation, delineating two molecular subtypes. These findings enhance understanding of ccRCC’s molecular and immune landscape, offering insights for improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategie.

PMID:41276708 | DOI:10.1007/s12672-025-04074-x

Aging Clin Exp Res. 2025 Nov 23. doi: 10.1007/s40520-025-03260-9. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Sarcopenia, characterized by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, significantly affects older adults, particularly those with cancer. Although sarcopenia’s negative influence on quality of life (QoL) is acknowledged, data on its specific impact among older hospitalized oncology patients remain limited. The aim of the present study was to assess the health-related quality of life in older patients (≥ 65 years) diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer using the SarQoL^® questionnaire and to analyze the association between weight loss and functioning across individual quality of life domains.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 97 consecutive patients (≥ 65 years) diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer, hospitalized at the University Hospital in Krakow between June and September 2023. Participants completed the SarQoL^® questionnaire, assessing QoL across seven domains: physical and mental health, locomotion, body composition, functionality, activities of daily living, leisure activities, and fears. Nutritional status was evaluated using Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS-2002).

RESULTS: Patients had moderate impairment in overall QoL (mean SarQoL^® score: 61.7 ± 15.4/100). Lowest scores were observed in leisure activities (55 points), while highest scores occurred in fears (83 points). A significant but weak inverse correlation was observed between body weight and functionality (r = -0.225 ; p < 0.05) and fears domains (r = -0.255 ; p < 0.05), indicating higher QoL scores with lower body weight. Notably, patients with higher NRS scores paradoxically reported better functionality (r = 0.213 ; p < 0.05). Additionally, subjective physical weakness strongly correlated with mobility limitations and fatigue during walking (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: Sarcopenia substantially impairs QoL in older oncology patients, especially regarding leisure and functionality domains. The SarQoL^® questionnaire is effective in identifying nuanced impacts of sarcopenia on QoL. Early nutritional and rehabilitative interventions tailored to these insights could significantly enhance patient care and QoL outcomes.

PMID:41276697 | DOI:10.1007/s40520-025-03260-9

J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2025 Oct 30;113:95-102. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2025.10.042. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Nipple-areola complex reconstruction (NAR) has gained increasing popularity, allowing the accomplishment of esthetic breast reconstructions. To date, none of the currently available techniques has apparently achieved satisfactory outcomes on previous mastectomy scars. With Delta flap, we aimed to provide an alternative solution for proper long-term projection and nipple positioning in such challenging cases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We prospectively enrolled patients scheduled for NAR at our site. Delta flap was used when mastectomy scars crossed the intended neo-nipple site (group A) and compared with a control group (B) where C-V flaps nipple reconstructions were performed. Loss of projection was calculated for both groups, comparing immediate and 6-month postoperative projections. Analysis of operative times and complications was performed using the Student t-test with Welch correction. Chi-square test was used to assess patients’ and surgeons’ esthetic outcomes.

RESULTS: Twenty-five nipples were included in each group. A minimal difference was registered in long-term projection between the 2 groups; besides, loss of projection at 6 months was significantly reduced in group A (40.39%±0.12; p=0.042). No statistically significant differences were found regarding operative times (p=0.385) and complications (p=0.637). Surgeons assessed symmetry with the contralateral nipple and found that it improved in the active group (p=0.023), plus group A patients were more likely to recommend the procedure (p=0.015).

CONCLUSION: Delta flap represents an innovative tool addressing NAR when the planned neo-nipple site has consolidated scars that compromise the achievement of adequate reconstructive outcomes. With a few simple modifications, it provides optimal nipple positioning, long-term projection, and reduced morbidity compared to traditional methods.

PMID:41275540 | DOI:10.1016/j.bjps.2025.10.042

J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2025 Nov 3;113:70-76. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2025.10.040. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Haemodynamics examines the mechanics of blood circulation to define anatomy, support diagnosis, and guide treatment of tissue and organ alterations. The superficial inferior epigastric arteries (SIEAs) were studied in surgical specimens discarded from abdominoplasties to evaluate the most perfused regions for creating the lower transverse abdominal flap. In this observational, descriptive, and analytical study (2021-2024), SIEAs from 78 abdominoplasty specimens were catheterised, divided into four regions, and subjected to haemodynamic analysis. Two groups were studied: G1 (post-bariatric surgery) and G2 (without prior surgery). Numerical variables were summarised using measures of central tendency and dispersion. Associations between categorical variables were tested with Fisher’s exact test. The Shapiro-Wilk test assessed the normality of quantitative variables. Comparisons between two independent groups used Student’s t-test for normally distributed data and the Mann-Whitney U test for non-normal distributions. For paired groups, the paired Student’s t-test was applied for normal data, and the Wilcoxon and Spearman tests for non-normal data. Women comprised 71 participants (91.0%). G1 included 22 (28.2%), and G2 included 56 (71.8%). Statistically significant differences were observed between G1 and G2 in SIEA diameters. Haemodynamic analysis showed satisfactory perfusion in areas I and II (100% contrast filling of the vascular territory), whereas areas III (33.3%) and IV (6.7%) demonstrated unsatisfactory perfusion. This study demonstrated the anatomy and flow of the SIEAs and identified the safest regions of the flap for surgical use. Areas I and II were safe, whereas areas III and IV were not.

PMID:41275536 | DOI:10.1016/j.bjps.2025.10.040

J Surg Res. 2025 Nov 22;316:53-58. doi: 10.1016/j.jss.2025.10.031. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Standardized letters of recommendation (SLORs) have been adopted in colon and rectal surgery to reduce bias and improve consistency in applicant evaluation. Despite their widespread use, concerns remain about their limited ability to distinguish between applicants and their susceptibility to inflated ratings and narrative bias. This study aims to identify program directors’ perspectives on the current SLOR and guide the development of an improved tool to improve utility, fairness, and meaningful assessment in the selection process.

METHODS: A needs assessment survey was distributed to all Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited colon and rectal surgery residency program directors via the American Program Directors in Colon and Rectal Surgery listserv in Spring 2025. It included 7 Likert-style questions (including a 26-item rating matrix) and 5 free-text questions designed to assess satisfaction and perspectives on what should be included in a revised SLOR. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative responses; qualitative responses were thematically coded. Results were presented for comment at the American Program Directors in Colon and Rectal Surgery annual meeting and feedback was collected. A new SLOR form was created.

RESULTS: Fifty-two program directors responded (70% participation rate). While 62% found the current SLOR somewhat useful, only 27% rated it as very useful. Primary concerns included lack of discrimination due to inflated ratings, superlative narrative comments, and inconsistent use across institutions. Clinical judgment (98%), professionalism (93%), and interpersonal skills (91%) were identified as the most valued domains. Respondents reported mixed views on the value of narrative comments and identified the current “weakness” field as unhelpful or harmful. Suggestions for improvement included a more meaningful rating scale, structured free-text prompts with character limits, and clearer anchors for competency assessment. A revised SLOR incorporating these features was pilot-tested and refined.

CONCLUSIONS: Colorectal surgery program directors express limited satisfaction with the current SLOR due to poor discriminatory capacity and inconsistent narrative content. An updated form-developed through user feedback and best practices in evaluation-was created to enhance clarity, fairness, and utility in the application process. Its effectiveness will be assessed after implementation in the 2025 match cycle. These findings may guide SLOR redesigns in other specialties seeking to enhance holistic and equitable applicant assessment.

PMID:41275532 | DOI:10.1016/j.jss.2025.10.031

J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2025 Nov 25. doi: 10.1515/jpem-2025-0540. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Nutrition education is important for managing type 2 diabetes (T2D), and how much knowledge is retained after nutrition education for new onset diabetes is challenging to assess. We hypothesize that deployment of a nutrition assessment will reinforce nutrition knowledge in newly diagnosed youth with T2D.

METHODS: An exploratory quality improvement project was conducted to evaluate nutrition knowledge retained following new diagnosis of T2D. We implemented an 18-item nutrition assessment (at the first or second outpatient visit) evaluating nutrition label reading, hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia management, insulin management, and physical activity. Data was collected from the medical record, and descriptive and summary statistics were performed.

RESULTS: Quizzes were administered to 19 patients and their caregivers, mean patient age 14.9 ± 2.1 years, 68 % female, 68 % NH Black, 79 % publicly insured, with mean HbA1c 11.3 % at diagnosis, and 8.2 % at time of assessment. Mean overall nutrition assessment score was 14/18 (76 %). Patients scored well on questions about insulin (87 % correct) and physical activity (90 % correct) but needed additional reinforcement on questions about general nutrition (61 % correct) and acute and chronic complications of diabetes (64 % correct). Patients who had a lower HbA1c at follow-up scored higher on the quiz (p=0.037). Dietitians commented that the assessments allowed them to gain “quick insight” into patients’ baseline knowledge, which enabled more tailored nutrition education with each patient.

CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of nutrition assessments during comprehensive diabetes visits is feasible and facilitates nutrition education with the patient and/or caregiver in an engaging manner. Reinforcement of nutrition education is critical for type 2 diabetes management and outcomes.

PMID:41275517 | DOI:10.1515/jpem-2025-0540

Nutr Rev. 2025 Nov 23:nuaf222. doi: 10.1093/nutrit/nuaf222. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

CONTEXT: Excessive salt intake is a well-established, modifiable risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Although reducing salt consumption lowers blood pressure (BP), the quantitative association across intake levels, subgroup differences, and the influence of salt-intake assessment methods remain uncertain.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between salt-intake levels and BP across randomized controlled trials using predefined intake categories and to explore study-level continuous trends.

DATA SOURCES: The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, China Knowledge Network, Wanfang, China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), and Sinomed databases were searched from inception to December 2024, without language restrictions.

DATA EXTRACTION: Two reviewers independently screened records using prespecified PICOS criteria, extracted study characteristics and outcomes (systolic and diastolic BPs), and assessed risk of bias with the RoB2 tool. Discrepancies were resolved by discussion or third-reviewer adjudication. Salt was used as the primary exposure metric (measured in grams per day; conversion: 1 g sodium = 2.54 g salt).

DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analyses compared standardized intake categories (high >15 g d-1; moderate 5-15 g d-1; low <5 g d-1). Prespecified study-level meta-regression was conducted as an exploratory assessment of continuous trends. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses considered salt sensitivity, age, intervention duration, comorbid conditions, geographic region, publication year, and potassium handling. Publication bias diagnostics were performed where applicable.

CONCLUSIONS: Across 43 randomized controlled trials (1983-2024), higher amounts of salt intake were associated with higher BP, whereas lower intake was associated with larger BP reductions, demonstrating a graded association across intake categories. Exploratory study-level continuous trends were not statistically significant, consistent with residual heterogeneity, exposure measurement error, and adherence variation. These findings support individualized salt-reduction strategies and robust public-health measures, including food reformulation and national salt-reduction programs, to reduce the burden of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration No. CRD42024617388.

PMID:41275512 | DOI:10.1093/nutrit/nuaf222

Lab Med. 2025 Nov 23:lmaf072. doi: 10.1093/labmed/lmaf072. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Cell-derived microparticles that promote coagulation can lead to transfusion-related complications. Although age-dependent changes in hemostasis are known, the impact of donor age on microparticle concentration variability remains largely unexplored. We sought to determine microparticle concentrations and investigate their relationship with donor age.

METHODS: Whole-blood samples were collected from volunteers aged 17 to 60 years using K3EDTA as an anticoagulant. Donors were allocated to 1 of 5 age groups. Flow cytometric analysis and counting beads were used to determine microparticle concentrations and their origins.

RESULTS: A cross-sectional study of 394 blood donors revealed a mean (SD) total microparticle count of 25 693 (1578), 26 956 (976), 26 979 (989), 24 886 (987), and 271 331 (1355) particles/µL in blood donors aged 17 to 20, 21 to 30, 31 to 40, 41 to 50, and 51 to 60 years, respectively. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences in the concentrations of red blood cell (RBC)-derived microparticles, platelet-derived microparticles, or leukocyte-derived microparticles among the donor age groups. Linear regression analysis revealed that the r2 values between the total microparticle, RBC-derived microparticle, platelet-derived microparticle, and leukocyte-derived microparticle concentrations in whole blood and donor age were less than 0.01.

DISCUSSION: Our assessment of microparticle concentration across different blood donor age groups revealed age-independent variability in microparticle levels. These findings enhance our understanding of how donor factors influence microparticle values.

PMID:41275511 | DOI:10.1093/labmed/lmaf072