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Search Results (12,075)

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11 pages, 517 KB  
Review
Surgical and Non-Surgical Outcome of Asymptomatic Lumbosacral Lipomas in Children: A Systematic Review
by Nazar S. Annanepesov, Justina Phiri, Gennady E. Chmutin, Gerald Musa and Nicola Montemurro
Clin. Transl. Neurosci. 2026, 10(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/ctn10010003 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: The management of asymptomatic lumbosacral lipomas remains controversial, with studies reporting both prophylactic surgery and conservative management. This review compares conservative and surgical treatment approaches for asymptomatic lumbosacral lipomas in children, analyzing outcomes, complications and secondary treatment. Methods: A systematic literature review [...] Read more.
Background: The management of asymptomatic lumbosacral lipomas remains controversial, with studies reporting both prophylactic surgery and conservative management. This review compares conservative and surgical treatment approaches for asymptomatic lumbosacral lipomas in children, analyzing outcomes, complications and secondary treatment. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. Data were extracted and analyzed based on demographic characteristics, lipoma classification, treatment modality, complications and secondary treatment. Results: A total of 22 retrospective studies comprising 1215 patients were included. The mean age was 1.87 years, with a 1.12:1 female-to-male ratio. Dorsal lipomas were the most common subtype (31.6%). At first, a total of 1017 (83.7%) patients underwent surgery, whereas 198 (16.3%) patients had conservative management. Total resection was achieved in 422 (41.9%) patients, whereas subtotal resection and partial resections were performed in 261 (25.9%) and in 334 (33.29%) patients, respectively. Neurological worsening occurred in 17.2% of patients treated conservatively at first diagnosis, with urological dysfunction being the most common symptoms reported (15.2%), followed by neurological deficit to the lower limbs (12.6). Conservative management following prior surgical intervention was performed in 2.6% of cases. A favorable outcome was observed in 88.7% of patients following surgical resection and in 81.8% of patients who were not treated surgically. Conclusion: While surgical intervention is associated with operative risk, it provides a lower risk of long-term neurological deterioration compared to conservative management. The decision to operate should be individualized, considering patient age, anatomical complexity and based on risk of progression. Full article
22 pages, 8953 KB  
Article
Genome-Wide Analysis of Tomato SlCCD Genes and the Role of SlCCD11 in Enhancing Salt Tolerance
by Caiting An, Zesheng Liu, Mengkun Liu, Qianbin Li, Qi Wang, Min Cao, Xinmeng Geng and Chunlei Wang
Plants 2026, 15(2), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15020300 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an important horticultural crop. Carotenoid cyclase dioxygenase (CCD) is an enzyme responsible for cleaving carotenoids, which is involved in regulating plant growth and response to abiotic stresses. However, the role of SlCCDs in tomato stress resistance remains [...] Read more.
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an important horticultural crop. Carotenoid cyclase dioxygenase (CCD) is an enzyme responsible for cleaving carotenoids, which is involved in regulating plant growth and response to abiotic stresses. However, the role of SlCCDs in tomato stress resistance remains unclear. This study used the tomato variety ‘Micro-Tom’ as the material to investigate the function of SlCCDs in stress responses. Through whole-genome analysis, a total of 12 SlCCDs members (SlCCD1SlCCD12) were identified. Systematic evolutionary analysis classified them into four branches, and members within the same branch maintained a conserved structure. The promoter analysis revealed that SlCCDs contain multiple hormones and stress response elements. The qRT-PCR analysis revealed that SlCCD11 was the most highly expressed gene in the leaves. In addition, multiple SlCCDs showed significant responses to abscisic acid (ABA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), light, and sodium chloride (NaCl) treatments. Among them, the expression of SlCCD11 significantly increased under salt stress. By silencing SlCCD11 using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) technology, it was found that the chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activity, and ABA-related gene expression in the TRV:SlCCD11 plants under salt stress were all lower than the control samples, while the carotenoid content and ROS accumulation were higher. This indicates that SlCCD11 is a positive regulatory factor for salt stress. In conclusion, this study systematically analyzed the SlCCD gene family and revealed the positive role of SlCCD11 in tomato response to salt stress, providing a candidate gene for genetic improvement of crop stress resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Regulatory Mechanisms of Crop Salt Tolerance)
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15 pages, 1893 KB  
Systematic Review
Effectiveness of Exercise Therapy for Postpartum Urinary Incontinence—Systematic Review
by Maitane Cuesta-Paredes, Noé Labata-Lezaun, Cristina Orts-Ruiz, Carlos López-de-Celis and Elena Estébanez-de-Miguel
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020810 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent health condition with a negative impact on quality of life (QoL). Exercise therapy (ET), specifically, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), is recommended as a first-line conservative treatment for UI during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent health condition with a negative impact on quality of life (QoL). Exercise therapy (ET), specifically, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), is recommended as a first-line conservative treatment for UI during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. This study evaluated the effects of ET on the management of postpartum UI. Methods: A systematic search was conducted to identify clinical trials and randomized controlled trials including women over 18 years with postpartum UI. All included studies used ET as the main intervention. Studies were excluded if UI symptoms were attributable to factors outside the urinary tract or if participants had concomitant pathologies. Results: From 298 records screened, four trials were included. Three trials reported statistically significant improvements in UI outcomes, while findings for pelvic floor function and QoL showed greater heterogeneity. One trial found that supervised PFMT was associated with greater improvements in urinary symptoms (BFLUTS), vaginal pressure (18.96 mmHg (SD: 9.08)), and endurance (11.32 s (SD: 3.17)) compared to unsupervised training. Another trial using electromyographic biofeedback with electrical stimulation reported a continence rate exceeding 70% on the 20 min pad test, with improvements in perceived burden (VAS), symptoms (UDI), and QoL (IIQ). A third trial combining PFMT with infrared physiotherapy showed improvements in pelvic floor function (PFIQ-7, PFDI-20), urodynamic parameters, urine loss, and QoL (GQOLI-74). In the remaining trial, within-group improvements were observed, with no statistically significant between-group differences. Conclusions: ET appears to be beneficial for postpartum UI, with a moderate certainty of evidence. While the greatest benefits are observed with supervised PFMT, the diversity of comparators, and the risk of performance bias limit definitive conclusions regarding its superiority. Given the short-term follow-up, it remains unclear whether the results are influenced by the spontaneous recovery trajectory in the postpartum period and if these effects are sustained in the long term. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Rehabilitation)
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20 pages, 773 KB  
Review
Precision Targeted Therapy for PCOS: Emerging Drugs, Translational Challenges, and Future Opportunities
by Xinhong Wu, Wei Yi and Xiawen Liu
Biomedicines 2026, 14(1), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14010213 - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by a self-perpetuating vicious cycle between insulin resistance (IR) and hyperandrogenism (HA). While lifestyle management remains the internationally recommended first-line treatment, current clinical management, primarily relying on combined oral contraceptives and metformin, offers symptomatic relief or “masking” [...] Read more.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by a self-perpetuating vicious cycle between insulin resistance (IR) and hyperandrogenism (HA). While lifestyle management remains the internationally recommended first-line treatment, current clinical management, primarily relying on combined oral contraceptives and metformin, offers symptomatic relief or “masking” of the phenotype but fails to adequately disrupt this core pathophysiological loop, while also carrying potential intergenerational safety concerns. This review systematically evaluates the paradigm shift toward mechanism-based precision medicine. First, we analyze emerging precision-targeted therapies that intervene in specific pathological nodes: (1) metabolic regulators (e.g., GLP-1RAs, SGLT2i, and brown adipose tissue (BAT) activators) that target systemic glucotoxicity and the novel “BAT-Ovarian axis”; (2) neuroendocrine modulators (e.g., NK3R antagonists) that act as negative modulators of the hyperactive GnRH pulse generator; and (3) innovative androgen synthesis inhibitors (e.g., Artemisinins) that utilize a degradation-at-source mechanism. Complementing these, we explore the strategic value of Natural Products through the lens of Network Pharmacology,” highlighting their ability to restore systemic homeostasis via multi-target modulation. Finally, we address critical translational challenges, specifically the need to establish long-term reproductive and offspring safety, providing a roadmap for developing true disease-modifying treatments for PCOS. Distinct from reviews limited to isolated therapeutic modalities, this article uniquely bridges current clinical management with emerging organ-specific precision targets and natural product networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction)
17 pages, 3909 KB  
Article
Defining the Critical Role of α-Gustducin for NF-κB Inhibition and Anti-Inflammatory Signal Transduction by Bitter Agonists in Lung Epithelium
by Yuzhen Fang, Qiujie Wang, Shuobin Wu, Xinxiu He, Shengyu Wang, Ruonan Ma, Hao Zhao, Xiaoyi Zhao, Xing Wang and Yuxin Zhang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020997 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
This study evaluates and compares the protective effects of several type II taste receptor (T2R) agonists against LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-induced inflammatory damage in BEAS-2B cells, focusing on their action via an α-gustducin (encoded by GNAT3)-dependent signaling pathway that leads to NF-κB inhibition. To [...] Read more.
This study evaluates and compares the protective effects of several type II taste receptor (T2R) agonists against LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-induced inflammatory damage in BEAS-2B cells, focusing on their action via an α-gustducin (encoded by GNAT3)-dependent signaling pathway that leads to NF-κB inhibition. To investigate gene expression, mRNA levels of target inflammatory cytokines and T2R subtypes were quantified by qRT-PCR. Cytotoxicity assessment of LPS and bitter agonists was conducted using the CCK-8 assay. The activation status of the NF-κB pathway was examined by Western blot analysis of total and phosphorylated forms of p65 and IκB. Finally, the specific and essential role of GNAT3 was definitively validated through siRNA-mediated gene knockdown. LPS treatment induced significant upregulation of IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA, along with increased phosphorylation of p65 and IκB in BEAS-2B cells. A direct, parallel comparison of the bitter taste agonists PTC (phenylthiourea), QN (quinine), CPD (carisoprodol), and LK (chloroquine) revealed their capacity to upregulate specific T2R subtypes, suppressing inflammatory mediator release and NF-κB activation. Critically, upon GNAT3 silencing, the inhibitory effects of all tested agonists on p-p65/p65 and p-IκB/IκB ratios were significantly attenuated, without altering total p65 or IκB abundance. This provides direct genetic evidence that GNAT3 is specifically required for mediating the anti-inflammatory effects elicited by these T2R agonists. Multiple bitter receptor agonists exert anti-inflammatory effects on airway epithelial cells in a GNAT3-dependent manner. Our study advances the field by systematically comparing agonist efficacy and establishing the indispensable role of GNAT3 within the anti-inflammatory signaling cascade triggered by T2R agonists, thereby revealing a refined mechanistic insight and potential therapeutic target for inflammatory lung diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pharmacology)
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15 pages, 1147 KB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effectiveness and Safety of Tranexamic Acid for Postpartum Haemorrhage in Patients with Haemorrhagic Disorders
by Victor Abiola Adepoju, Abdulrakib Abdulrahim, Bukola Olanrewaju Olaniyi, Qorinah Estiningtyas Sakilah Adnani and Shankar Biswas
Diseases 2026, 14(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases14010034 - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains the leading cause of maternal mortality globally. Women with inherited or unexplained bleeding disorders such as von Willebrand disease (VWD), factor XI deficiency (FXI), platelet function disorders, or bleeding disorder of unknown cause (BDUC) face a higher risk. [...] Read more.
Background: Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains the leading cause of maternal mortality globally. Women with inherited or unexplained bleeding disorders such as von Willebrand disease (VWD), factor XI deficiency (FXI), platelet function disorders, or bleeding disorder of unknown cause (BDUC) face a higher risk. While tranexamic acid (TXA) is routinely used in obstetric care, its specific efficacy and safety in these populations remain unclear. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420251082349). Databases searched included PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Dimensions. Studies evaluating TXA for PPH prevention or treatment in women with bleeding disorders were included. Six cohort studies (2016–2024) involving 213 deliveries met the criteria. Three contributed to a meta-analysis on primary PPH; the other three were synthesised narratively. Results: TXA use was associated with a 56% reduction in primary PPH risk (risk ratio 0.44; 95% CI: 0.27–0.70; p = 0.0007), with no observed heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Because contributing cohorts were phenotypically heterogeneous (BDUC, FXI, mixed), the pooled effect reflects an average across disorders rather than disorder-specific efficacy. TXA also appeared to reduce secondary and severe PPH in some cohorts. However, bleeding occurred in 26–36% of high-risk deliveries despite prophylaxis. No maternal deaths or thromboembolic events were reported in 136 TXA-exposed cases. Attribution was complicated by concurrent use of desmopressin and platelet transfusions. Most studies had moderate to severe bias. Conclusions: TXA significantly lowers the risk of primary PPH in women with bleeding disorders and appears safe. Despite this, residual bleeding underscores the need for trials to optimise TXA use alongside disease-specific strategies. However, this conclusion is derived from only six observational studies with heterogeneous patient populations and co-interventions. The evidence remains preliminary and should be interpreted cautiously. TXA should be considered as part of a multimodal postpartum haemorrhage management algorithm rather than a stand-alone therapy. Full article
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16 pages, 671 KB  
Systematic Review
Prevalence of Positive Screening of Sleep-Disordered Breathing Among Children and Adolescents in Orthodontic Settings: A Systematic Review
by Maurizio Ledda, Chiara Pili, Silvia Mura, Eric Battista, Teresa Cobo, Alessio Verdecchia and Enrico Spinas
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020802 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB) in children is closely associated with craniofacial growth and orthodontic conditions. Early identification of SDB risk in orthodontic populations is crucial, yet evidence remains fragmented. This systematic review aimed to summarize the prevalence of high SDB risk in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB) in children is closely associated with craniofacial growth and orthodontic conditions. Early identification of SDB risk in orthodontic populations is crucial, yet evidence remains fragmented. This systematic review aimed to summarize the prevalence of high SDB risk in pediatric orthodontic patients assessed through validated questionnaires. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria comprised analytical cross-sectional studies assessing SDB risk in children undergoing or seeking orthodontic treatment, using validated questionnaires such as the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ), OSA-18, or Sleep Clinical Record (SCR). The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the “JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data”. The certainty of the evidence was additionally evaluated using the GRADE approach. Results: Twelve studies published between 2011 and 2025 met the inclusion criteria, totaling 3737 participants. Across studies, the mean prevalence of high SDB risk ranged from a minimum of 1.2% to a maximum of 69%, with consistently higher values in populations exhibiting malocclusions, oral breathing patterns, or craniofacial risk markers. All studies clearly described their populations and used validated screening tools, resulting in moderate overall quality. Conclusions: Pediatric orthodontic populations demonstrate a substantial prevalence of high SDB risk, suggesting that orthodontists should systematically incorporate validated questionnaires into routine screening. The evidence base, although consistent, remains limited by methodological weaknesses. Further well-designed studies are needed to clarify causal relationships between craniofacial development and SDB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Advances in Orthodontics)
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15 pages, 3126 KB  
Article
A Novel Bis-Spiroketal Scaffold and Other Secondary Metabolites from the Marine-Derived Fungus Talaromyces stipitatus HF05001: Structural Diversity and Bioactivities
by Longhe Yang, Yan Qiu, Ying Liu, Xiaoyu Wei, Xiwen He, Yiling Wang, Yajun Yan, Kaikai Bai, Zhaokai Wang and Jie Ren
Mar. Drugs 2026, 24(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/md24010047 - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Marine-derived fungi have become a vital resource for the discovery of novel secondary metabolites with diverse structures and significant biological activities. This study focuses on a systematic chemical investigation of the sponge-associated fungus Talaromyces stipitatus HF05001, leading to the isolation and identification of [...] Read more.
Marine-derived fungi have become a vital resource for the discovery of novel secondary metabolites with diverse structures and significant biological activities. This study focuses on a systematic chemical investigation of the sponge-associated fungus Talaromyces stipitatus HF05001, leading to the isolation and identification of 20 compounds, including one new marine ketal natural product (Compound 17, Talarobispiral A). These compounds were structurally elucidated using comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, including 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS. All isolates were screened for their anti-inflammatory and anti-adipogenic properties. Among them, compound 4 (Secalonic acid D, SAD), 7 (Sch 725680) and 16 (bacillisporins C) demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory potential by markedly suppressing nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Notably, compound 4 showed superior inhibitory effect, with an IC50 value of 0.22 μM. Additionally, compound 4 exhibited the strongest dose-dependent inhibition of lipid droplet accumulation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. These findings highlight the dual therapeutic potential of metabolites from Talaromyces stipitatus, identifying promising lead compounds for the development of novel treatments for inflammatory and metabolic disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Structural Studies on Marine Natural Products)
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18 pages, 1005 KB  
Systematic Review
Artificial Intelligence for Predicting Treatment Response in Neovascular Age Macular Degeneration with Anti-VEGF: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Wei-Ting Luo and Ting-Wei Wang
Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2026, 8(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/make8010023 - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss; anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy is standard care for neovascular AMD (nAMD), yet treatment response varies. We systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models using [...] Read more.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss; anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy is standard care for neovascular AMD (nAMD), yet treatment response varies. We systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models using optical coherence tomography (OCT)-derived information to predict anti-VEGF treatment response in nAMD. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore were searched from inception to 18 December 2025 for eligible studies reporting threshold-based performance. Two reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using PROBAST+AI; pooled sensitivity and specificity were estimated with a bivariate random-effects model. Seven studies met inclusion criteria, and six were synthesized quantitatively. Pooled sensitivity was 0.79 (95% CI 0.68–0.87), and pooled specificity was 0.83 (95% CI 0.62–0.94), with substantial heterogeneity. Specificity tended to be higher for long-term and functional outcomes than for short-term and anatomical outcomes. Most studies had a high risk of bias, mainly due to limited external validation and incomplete reporting. OCT-based AI models may help stratify treatment response in nAMD, but prospective, multicenter validation and standardized outcome definitions are needed before routine use; current evidence shows no consistent advantage of deep learning over engineered radiomic features. Full article
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15 pages, 4969 KB  
Article
Clinical Phenotypes and Prognosis of Anti-mGluR1 Encephalitis: A Single-Center Case Series and Comprehensive Literature Review
by Rui Ban, Yueyi Yu, Jingli Jiang, Dongchao Shen, Mange Liu, Siyuan Fan, Haitao Ren and Hongzhi Guan
Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020321 - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Anti-mGluR1 encephalitis is a rare form of autoimmune encephalitis predominantly manifesting as acute/subacute cerebellar ataxia. We describe a newly diagnosed case series from our center and conduct a comprehensive review of reported cases worldwide to compare clinical manifestations, treatment options, and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Anti-mGluR1 encephalitis is a rare form of autoimmune encephalitis predominantly manifesting as acute/subacute cerebellar ataxia. We describe a newly diagnosed case series from our center and conduct a comprehensive review of reported cases worldwide to compare clinical manifestations, treatment options, and outcomes. Methods: We consecutively identified 11 patients at Peking Union Medical College Hospital, and additionally extracted clinical data from 42 previously published cases identified via PubMed and Google Scholar (search updated to 1 August 2025). Demographics, phenotypes, laboratory findings, imaging, treatment, and outcomes were systematically summarized. This pooled review was not prospectively registered, and extracted data from 21 published articles were analyzed alongside our 11 newly diagnosed cases. Results: The integrated cohort comprised 53 patients with anti-mGluR1 encephalitis, including 29 males and 24 females, with patients reported from Asia (n = 18), North America (n = 11), and Europe (n = 24). The median age at onset was 50 years (IQR 29.5–58.5; range 3–81), with North American patients presenting later than their Asian and European counterparts (median 60 vs. 48 and 45 years, respectively; all p < 0.05). Disease onset was subacute in most cases (58.7%). Comorbid tumors were present in nine patients, most commonly lymphomas. Clinical phenotypes were classified as pure cerebellar syndrome (n = 31), cerebellar ataxia with encephalitic features (n = 20), and non-cerebellar presentations (n = 2). Baseline severity differed across phenotypes (χ2 = 35.7, p < 0.001). Regional variability in severity was observed but did not reach significance. CSF analyses revealed pleocytosis in 59% (23/39), elevated protein in 31.3% (5/16), and oligoclonal bands in 52.2% (12/23). MRI abnormalities were detected in 34.7% (17/49) of patients, with 21.9% (7/32) developing cerebellar atrophy on follow-up. Therapeutic strategies varied significantly across regions (p = 0.041), with Asian cohorts more frequently receiving long-term immunosuppression, European cohorts favoring combined regimens, and North American cases relying predominantly on first-line therapies. Overall, 65.9% (29/44) of patients clinically improved, 13.6% (6/44) relapsed and 20.5% (9/44) remained unaffected. Conclusions: Anti-mGluR1 encephalitis presents with significant clinical heterogeneity, ranging from cerebellar-dominant ataxia to neuropsychiatric or non-cerebellar phenotypes, and demonstrates differences in reported age of onset, disease severity, and therapeutic approaches across publication regions. Our findings underscore the importance of early recognition, sustained immunotherapy, and international collaboration to establish standardized, evidence-based management for this rare but disabling disorder. Full article
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16 pages, 3884 KB  
Article
Cobalt Diffusion Treatment in Topaz: Process and Mechanism of Color Modification
by Xiaoxu Yan, Suwei Yue, Zida Tong, Yuzhi Zhang and Yun Wu
Minerals 2026, 16(1), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16010094 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Topaz is one of the most economically important fluorine-rich nesosilicates, which are predominantly colorless in natural crystals. Hence, the trade relies almost entirely on irradiated blue topaz with an unstable color center, which has been shown to fade over time. The cobalt (Co) [...] Read more.
Topaz is one of the most economically important fluorine-rich nesosilicates, which are predominantly colorless in natural crystals. Hence, the trade relies almost entirely on irradiated blue topaz with an unstable color center, which has been shown to fade over time. The cobalt (Co) diffusion treatment is a stable alternative process for converting colorless topaz to blue by a solid-state diffusion mechanism. To investigate the potential role of Co2+ substitution in the formation of the blue layer and the coupled behavior of F/OH dehydroxylation in facilitating this process, systematic diffusion treatments have been successfully conducted and compared. In this study, gem-quality topazes were annealed in air at 1000 °C for 20–40 h (hr) along with CoO, Fe2O3, Cr2O3, and CuO powders. The diffused products were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Ultraviolet-Visible absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Near-Mid Infrared spectroscopy (NMIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Parallel runs with CuO, Fe2O3, or Cr2O3 alone confirmed that none of these oxides produces a stable blue layer, underscoring the unique role of Co. The Co-diffused sample displays an intense blue layer characterized by a Co2+ octahedral isomorphism triplet at 540, 580, and 630 nm, which are absent from both untreated and heat-only controls. XPS analysis reveals the emergence of Co2+ (binding energy: 780.63 eV) and a concomitant depletion in F, along with the disappearance of the OH overtone absorption at 7123 cm−1. These observations confirm that defluorination generates octahedral vacancies accommodated by the coupled substitution: CoF2 (solid reactant) + (AlO2) (fragment of topaz structure) → AlOF (solid product) + (CoOF) (fragment of topaz structure). Prolonged annealing leads to decreased relative atomic percentages of K+ and F ions, consistent with volatilization losses during the high-temperature process, thereby directly correlating color intensity with cobalt valence state, which transfers from Co2+ to Co3+. These findings establish a Co-incorporation chronometer for F–rich aluminosilicate systems, with an optimal annealing time of approximately 20 hr at 1000 °C. Furthermore, the above results demonstrate that the color mechanism in nesosilicate gems is simultaneously governed by volatile release and cation availability. Full article
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20 pages, 1125 KB  
Review
Regulation of Keratin Chemical Modifications: Potential Molecular Mechanisms in Proliferative Diseases
by Xuemei Ma, Xiaoli Jiang, Mengxue Song, Bingbing Bai, Xia Hou and Qingtian Wu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020972 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Keratin, a core structural protein in epithelial cells, is essential for maintaining epithelial tissue integrity. Numerous studies have confirmed its critical role in proliferative disorders, including lung/liver cancer, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and hepatic fibrosis (HF). Post-translational modification (PTM) regulates protein activity, and [...] Read more.
Keratin, a core structural protein in epithelial cells, is essential for maintaining epithelial tissue integrity. Numerous studies have confirmed its critical role in proliferative disorders, including lung/liver cancer, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and hepatic fibrosis (HF). Post-translational modification (PTM) regulates protein activity, and keratin undergoes phosphorylation, acetylation, and methylation—modifications that modulate fibrosis and cancer progression by regulating relevant signaling pathways. However, how these modifications reshape keratin’s structure and function in these diseases remains understudied, underscoring the necessity for a systematic review. This review first summarizes keratin’s classification, physiological functions, and roles in epithelial cells, then focuses on the physiological significance of keratin modifications in fibrosis and cancer, while dissecting the molecular mechanisms by which keratin PTMs drive disease progression to address the knowledge gap regarding modification-related keratin changes. Elucidating the mechanisms of keratin and its PTMs is pivotal for understanding disease progression and developing targeted therapies; meanwhile, keratin-targeted strategies—such as keratin siRNAs and small-molecule compounds that regulate keratin expression or modification—have shown therapeutic potential. In summary, this review synthesizes current research findings and provides novel insights for the treatment of fibrosis and cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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11 pages, 973 KB  
Article
Exogenous 2-Keto-L-Gulonic Acid Supplementation Promotes L-Ascorbic Acid Biosynthesis in Drosophila melanogaster
by Chuxiong Meng and Hui Xu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020978 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
L-ascorbic acid (ASA) is an essential micronutrient critical for antioxidant defense and metabolic regulation in animals. Unlike many vertebrates, Drosophila melanogaster possesses the ability to synthesize ASA endogenously, yet the regulatory mechanisms governing this biosynthesis remain unclear. 2-keto-L-gulonic acid (2KGA), a key precursor [...] Read more.
L-ascorbic acid (ASA) is an essential micronutrient critical for antioxidant defense and metabolic regulation in animals. Unlike many vertebrates, Drosophila melanogaster possesses the ability to synthesize ASA endogenously, yet the regulatory mechanisms governing this biosynthesis remain unclear. 2-keto-L-gulonic acid (2KGA), a key precursor in industrial vitamin C production, has been shown to enhance ASA accumulation in plants, but its role in invertebrates is unknown. This study systematically investigated the effect of exogenous 2KGA supplementation on ASA biosynthesis in Drosophila. Fruit flies were reared on media with or without 2KGA (1.6 g/L; n = 30 per group) for 12 days, followed by ASA quantification via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results showed that 2KGA treatment increased mean ASA content from 0.00853 ± 0.0012 to 0.01064 ± 0.0015 μg/fly (24.74% increase; p = 0.0194, r2 = 0.558) compared to the control group, indicating that 2KGA acts as a metabolic regulator to promote ASA biosynthesis. Sex-separated analyses further revealed that this effect was primarily driven by male flies (p = 0.0057, r2 = 0.879), whereas females showed no significant response (p = 0.1783), pointing to a sex-dependent regulation of 2KGA-mediated ASA biosynthesis. These findings provide the first evidence that 2KGA modulates ASA levels in an invertebrate disease model and suggest that fruit flies can serve as a useful platform to explore conserved redox-regulatory mechanisms relevant to human health and disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drosophila: A Versatile Model in Biology and Medicine—2nd Edition)
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23 pages, 1557 KB  
Systematic Review
Effectiveness of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Burns in Pediatric and Adolescent Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Celia Villalba-Aguilar, Juan Manuel Carmona-Torres, Lucía Villalba-Aguilar, Matilde Isabel Castillo-Hermoso, Rosa María Molina-Madueño and José Alberto Laredo-Aguilera
Healthcare 2026, 14(2), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14020242 - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: Burns represent a public health problem because they generate both physical and psychological damage, especially in the child and adolescent population, and high costs, especially due to the management of scars. Advances in burn care have improved survival and quality of life [...] Read more.
Background: Burns represent a public health problem because they generate both physical and psychological damage, especially in the child and adolescent population, and high costs, especially due to the management of scars. Advances in burn care have improved survival and quality of life for this population. New clinical trials have been conducted on the benefits of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), showing that it improves the healing of burns and the appearance of scars. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the efficacy of NPWT both alone and as an adjunct to conventional dressings in pediatric and adolescent patients compared with conventional treatments. Methodology: A systematic search was carried out between December 2023 and the last quarter of 2025 in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library. This meta-analysis was performed following the PRISMA statement (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and was registered in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42024597293. The risk of bias 2 (RoB2) tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the studies. Quantitative meta-analyses using random-model effects were performed only for variables with sufficient comparable data among studies. For other outcomes, where meta-analysis was not feasible due to lack of comparable data or control groups, results were synthesized qualitatively. Results: A total of seven articles (three clinical trials and four retrospective studies), in which a total of 323 subjects participated, were included. The main results demonstrate the efficacy of NPWT, as it decreases the re-epithelialization time, improves the appearance of scars (MD = −1.25 (95% CI between −1.80 and −0.70)), reduces the probability of skin grafts (OR = 0.17 (95% CI between 0.06 and 0.46)), and therefore, as there is less need for surgery and fewer dressing changes, reduces costs. Conclusions: NPWT offers significant clinical benefits in the treatment of burns in children and adolescents. Although a meta-analysis could not be performed due to the lack of a control group in some studies, studies with larger samples and multicenter designs will be necessary to better assess the relevant clinical outcomes. However, the results of this study show that NPWT is effective in treating burns in children and adolescents and that its use in clinical practice may represent a promising adjunctive therapy. Full article
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19 pages, 1997 KB  
Article
Adsorption Performance of Cu-Impregnated Carbon Derived from Waste Cotton Textiles: Single and Binary Systems with Methylene Blue and Pb(II)
by Xingjie Zhao, Xiner Ye, Lun Zhou and Si Chen
Textiles 2026, 6(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles6010012 - 19 Jan 2026
Abstract
Waste textiles may contain heavy metals, which can originate from dyes, mordants, or other chemical treatments used during manufacturing. To explore the impact of heavy metals on the adsorption properties of activated carbon derived from discarded textiles through pyrolysis and to mitigate heavy [...] Read more.
Waste textiles may contain heavy metals, which can originate from dyes, mordants, or other chemical treatments used during manufacturing. To explore the impact of heavy metals on the adsorption properties of activated carbon derived from discarded textiles through pyrolysis and to mitigate heavy metal migration, this study investigated the adsorption behavior of copper-impregnated pyrolytic carbon toward typical pollutants—methylene blue and lead—in simulated dyeing wastewater. Aqueous copper nitrate was used to impregnate the waste pure cotton textiles (WPCTs) to introduce copper species as precursors for creating additional active sites. The study systematically examined adsorption mechanisms, single and binary adsorption systems, adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherms, adsorption thermodynamics, and the influence of pH. Key findings and conclusions are as follows: Under optimal conditions, the copper-containing biochar (Cu-BC) demonstrated maximum adsorption capacities of 36.70 ± 1.54 mg/g for Pb(II) and 104.93 ± 8.71 mg/g for methylene blue. In a binary adsorption system, when the contaminant concentration reached 80 mg/L, the adsorption capacity of Cu-BC for Pb(II) was significantly enhanced, with the adsorption amount increasing by over 26%. However, when the Pb(II) concentration reached 40 mg/L, it inhibited the adsorption of contaminants, reducing the adsorption amount by 20%. SEM, XRD, Cu LMM, FTIR and XPS result analysis proves that the adsorption mechanism of methylene blue involves π–π interactions, hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, and pore filling. For Pb(II) ions, the adsorption likely occurs via electrostatic interactions, complexation with functional groups, and pore filling. This study supplements the research content on the copper adsorption mechanism supported by biochar for heavy metal adsorption research and broadens the application scope of biochar in the field of heavy metal adsorption. Full article
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