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Current pharmacological treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
(Elsevier, 2021-10-01) Muñoz Martínez, Sergio; Iserte, Gemma; Sanduzzi Zamparelli, Marco; Llarch, Neus; Reig, María
The landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has changed since the incorporation of sorafenib in 2007 as the first pharmacological treatment for HCC. The combination of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab is currently the first-line treatment for HCC patients, and there are several second-line options approved for patients who had received sorafenib as the first-line treatment. The advantage of having multiple options of pharmacological treatment for HCC patients is associated to the need to redefine the clinical decision-making approach and considering new endpoints for the clinical trials design. The aim of this review was to share the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer approach and to summarize the ongoing clinical trials, which are testing pharmacological treatments.
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging: Recent Advances and Applications
(Elsevier, 2021-10-01) Martínez Heras, Eloy; Grussu, Francesco; Prados, Ferran; Solana Díaz, Elisabeth; Llufriu Duran, Sara
Quantitative diffusion imaging techniques enable the characterization of tissue microstructural properties of the human brain “in vivo”, and are widely used in neuroscientific and clinical contexts. In this review, we present the basic physical principles behind diffusion imaging and provide an overview of the current diffusion techniques, including standard and advanced techniques as well as their main clinical applications. Standard diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) offers sensitivity to changes in microstructure due to diseases and enables the characterization of single fiber distributions within a voxel as well as diffusion anisotropy. Nonetheless, its inability to represent complex intravoxel fiber topologies and the limited biological specificity of its metrics motivated the development of several advanced diffusion MRI techniques. For example, high-angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) techniques enabled the characterization of fiber crossing areas and other complex fiber topologies in a single voxel and supported the development of higher-order signal representations aiming to decompose the diffusion MRI signal into distinct microstructure compartments. Biophysical models, often known by their acronym (e.g., CHARMED, WMTI, NODDI, DBSI, DIAMOND) contributed to capture the diffusion properties from each of such tissue compartments, enabling the computation of voxel-wise maps of axonal density and/or morphology that hold promise as clinically viable biomarkers in several neurological and neuroscientific applications; for example, to quantify tissue alterations due to disease or healthy processes. Current challenges and limitations of state-of-the-art models are discussed, including validation efforts. Finally, novel diffusion encoding approaches (e.g., b-tensor or double diffusion encoding) may increase the biological specificity of diffusion metrics towards intra-voxel diffusion heterogeneity in clinical settings, holding promise in neurological applications.
Acute bronchiolitis and respiratory syncytial virus seasonal transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain: A national perspective from the pediatric Spanish Society (AEP).
(Elsevier B.V., 2021-12-01) Torres Fernandez, David; Casellas, Aina; Mellado, María José; Calvo, Cristina; Bassat Orellana, Quique
Introduction and Objectives The COVID-19 pandemic and the widespread associated use of non-pharmaceutical interventions have impacted viral circulation and the incidence of respiratory tract infections. We compared Pediatric Emergency Department visits, bronchiolitis admissions, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases in 2020 with those documented for the preceding four years. Methods This was a retrospective multicentric national survey study, driven by the Pediatric Spanish Society, and gathering monthly data from Spanish hospitals between 1st January 2016 and 31st December 2020. An Interrupted Time Series Analysis and Poisson regression models were performed for each index. Results Thirty-eight hospitals representing most of the different regions of Spain participated. Compared to the preceding four years, in 2020, Pediatric emergency department visits significantly decreased immediately after initiation of the national lockdown. The median number of visits averted per month was 39,754 (IQR 26,539–50,065). RSV diagnoses during the 2020 winter season nearly disappeared with only 21 cases being documented among participating hospitals. The expected seasonal peak of bronchiolitis hospitalizations never occurred. The median number of admissions in 2020 averted per month was 100 (IQR 37–185) compared to 2016–2019. Only 3 hospitalized cases were RSV-confirmed. Reopening of schools and kindergarten was not associated with a remarkable increase in RSV cases or bronchiolitis hospitalizations. Conclusion A dramatic reduction of bronchiolitis admissions and near disappearance of RSV cases was observed in Spanish hospitals coinciding with the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Zika virus infection in pregnant women and their children: A review
(Elsevier B.V., 2021-09-08) Marbán Castro, Elena; Goncé Mellgren, Anna; Fumadó, Victoria; Romero Acevedo, Lucia; Bardají, Azucena
Zika virus (ZIKV) is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes. ZIKV can be transmitted to humans by non-vector borne mechanisms such as sexual intercourse, maternal-foetal transmission or blood transfusion. In 2015, ZIKV emerged in the Americas, and spread to 87 countries and territories with autochthonous transmission, distributed across four of the six WHO regions. Most ZIKV infections in pregnancy are asymptomatic, but mother to child transmission of the virus can occur in 20 to 30% of cases and cause severe foetal and child defects. Children exposed to ZIKV while in utero might develop a pattern of structural anomalies and functional disabilities secondary to central nervous system damage, known as congenital Zika syndrome, and whose most common clinical feature is microcephaly. Normocephalic children born to mothers with ZIKV infection in pregnancy, and with no observable Zika-associated birth defects, may also present with later neurodevelopmental delay or post-natal microcephaly. Screening and detection of ZIKV infection in pregnancy is essential, because most women with ZIKV infection are asymptomatic and clinical manifestations are non-specific. However, the diagnosis of ZIKV infection poses multiple challenges due to limited resources and scarce laboratory capabilities in most affected areas, the narrow window of time that the virus persists in the bloodstream, the large proportion of asymptomatic infections, and the cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses such as Dengue virus (DENV). Molecular methods (RT-PCR) are the most reliable tool to confirm ZIKV infection, as serodiagnosis requires confirmation with neutralization tests in case of inconclusive or positive serology results. Prenatal ultrasound assessment is essential for monitoring foetal development and early detection of possible severe anomalies. A mid- and long-term follow-up of children exposed to ZIKV while in utero is necessary to promptly detect clinical manifestations of possible neurological impairment.
Ductular reaction promotes intrahepatic angiogenesis through Slit2-Roundabout 1 signaling
(Wiley, 2021-09-07) Coll, Mar; Ariño, Silvia; Martínez-Sánchez, Celia; Garcia Pras, Ester; Gallego, Javier; Moles, Anna; Aguilar-Bravo, Beatriz; Blaya, Delia; Vallverdú Ginès, Júlia; Rubio Tomás, Teresa; Lozano, Juan José; Pose Méndez, Elisa; Graupera, Isabel; Fernández-Vidal, Andrea; Pol i Sorolla, Albert; Bataller, R.; Geng, Jian-Guo; Ginès i Gibert, Pere; Fernandez, Mercedes; Sancho-Bru, Pau
Background and Aims Ductular reaction (DR) expands in chronic liver diseases and correlates with disease severity. Besides its potential role in liver regeneration, DR plays a role in the wound-healing response of the liver, promoting periductular fibrosis and inflammatory cell recruitment. However, there is no information regarding its role in intrahepatic angiogenesis. In the current study we investigated the potential contribution of DR cells to hepatic vascular remodeling during chronic liver disease. Approach and Results In mouse models of liver injury, DR cells express genes involved in angiogenesis. Among angiogenesis-related genes, the expression of Slit2 and its receptor Roundabout 1 (Robo1) was localized in DR cells and neoangiogenic vessels, respectively. The angiogenic role of the Slit2–Robo1 pathway in chronic liver disease was confirmed in ROBO1/2−/+ mice treated with 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine, which displayed reduced intrahepatic neovascular density compared to wild-type mice. However, ROBO1/2 deficiency did not affect angiogenesis in partial hepatectomy. In patients with advanced alcohol-associated disease, angiogenesis was associated with DR, and up-regulation of SLIT2–ROBO1 correlated with DR and disease severity. In vitro, human liver-derived organoids produced SLIT2 and induced tube formation of endothelial cells. Conclusions Overall, our data indicate that DR expansion promotes angiogenesis through the Slit2–Robo1 pathway and recognize DR cells as key players in the liver wound-healing response.
A Ge.F.I. - ISFG European collaborative study on DNA identification of Cannabis sativa samples using a 13-locus multiplex STR method
(Elsevier B.V., 2021-12) Garofano, Paolo; Mameli, Alessandro; Marino, Alberto; Previderè, Carlo; Robino, Carlo; Romano, C.; Tozzo, Pamela; Verzeletti, A.; Di Nunzio, Michele; Agostini, Vincenzo; Alessandrini, Federica; Barrot i Feixat, Carme; Berti, Andrea; Bini, Carla; Bottinelli, Michel; Carnevali, Euegenia; Corradini, Beatrice; Fabbri, Mateo; Fattorini, P.
Cannabis sativa is the most used controlled substance in Europe. With the advent of new and less restrictive European laws on cannabis sale for recreational use (including in Italy), an increase in indoor cannabis crops were observed. This increase was possible due to the availability of cannabis seeds through the internet market. Genetic identification of cannabis can link seizures and if in possession then might aid in an investigation. A 13-locus multiplex STR method was previously developed and validated by Houston et al. A collaborative exercise was organized by the Italian Forensic Geneticists – International Society of Forensic Genetics (Ge.F.I. – ISFG) Working Group with the aim to test the reproducibility, reliability and robustness of this multiplex cannabis STR kit. Twenty-one laboratories from three European countries participated in the collaborative exercise and were asked to perform STR typing of two cannabis samples. Cannabis DNA samples and the multiplex STR kit were provided by the University of Barcelona and Sam Houston State University. Different platforms for PCR amplification, capillary electrophoresis (CE) and genotyping software were selected at the discretion of the participating laboratories. Although the participating laboratories used different PCR equipment, CE platforms and genotyping software, concordant results were obtained from the majority of the samples. The overall genotyping success ratio was 96%. Only minor artifacts were observed. The mean peak height ratio was estimated to be 76.3% and 78.1% for sample 1 and sample 2, respectively. The lowest amount of −1 / + 1 stutter percentage produced, when the height of the parent allele was higher than 8000 RFU, resulted to be less than 10% of the parent allele height. Few common issues were observed such as a minor peak imbalance in some heterozygous loci, some artifact peaks and few instances of allelic drop-out. The results of this collaborative exercise demonstrated the robustness and applicability of the 13-locus system for cannabis DNA profiling for forensic purposes.
The global NAFLD policy review and preparedness index: Are countries ready to address this silent public health challenge?
(Elsevier, 2022-04-01) Lazarus, Jeffrey V.; Mark, Henry E.; Villota Rivas, Marcela; Palayew, Adam; Carrieri, Patrizia; Colombo, Massimo; Ekstedt, Mattias; Esmat, Gamal; George, J.; Romero Gómez, Mercè; Razavi, Homie; Ratziu, Vlad; Ocama, Ponsiano; Novak, Katja; Marchesini, Giulio; Zelber-Sagi, Shira; Wong, Vincent W.-S.; Younossi, Zobair M.; Yilmaz, Yusuf; Tsochatzis, Emmanuel A.; Tacke, Frank; Spearman, C. Wendy; Silva, Marta Marques de Almeida; Anstee, Quentin M.; Cortez-Pinto, Helena; NAFLD
Background & Aims Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a highly prevalent, yet largely underappreciated liver condition which is closely associated with obesity and metabolic disease. Despite affecting an estimated 1 in 4 adults globally, NAFLD is largely absent on national and global health agendas. Methods We collected data from 102 countries, accounting for 86% of the world population, on NAFLD policies, guidelines, civil society engagement, clinical management, and epidemiologic data. A preparedness index was developed by coding questions into 6 domains (policies, guidelines, civil awareness, epidemiology and data, NAFLD detection, and NAFLD care management) and categorising the responses as high, medium, and low; a multiple correspondence analysis was then applied. Results The highest scoring countries were India (42.7) and the United Kingdom (40.0), with 32 countries (31%) scoring zero out of 100. For 5 of the domains a minority of countries were categorised as high-level while the majority were categorised as low-level. No country had a national or sub-national strategy for NAFLD and <2% of the different strategies for related conditions included any mention of NAFLD. National NAFLD clinical guidelines were present in only 32 countries. Conclusions Although NAFLD is a pressing public health problem, no country was found to be well prepared to address it. There is a pressing need for strategies to address NAFLD at national and global levels.
Prediction models for suicide reattempts by lasso regression through machine learning models: Single versus multiple suicide attempters
(Elsevier B.V., 2026-06-15) Roberto, Natalia; De Prisco, Michele; Andreo-Jover, Jorge; Arqueros, María; Ayad Ahmed, Wala; Bobes-Bascarán, Teresa ; Canal Rivero, Manuel; Cebrià Meca, Ana Isabel; Crespo-Facorro, Benedicto; Torre Luque, Alejandro de la; Diaz Marsá, Marina; Elices, Matilde; García Martínez, Daniel; Grande i Fullana, Iria; Jiménez Treviño, Luis; Mann, J. John; McIntyre, Roger S.; Oliva, Vincenzo; Palao Tarrero, Angela; Palao Vidal, Diego J.; Pérez Diez, Iván; Ruiz Veguilla, Miguel; Saiz Martínez, Pilar Alejandra; Zorrilla, Iñaki; SURVIVE CONSORTIUM; Pérez Solà, Víctor
The best predictor of a suicide attempt is a previous attempt, apart from psychiatric diagnoses also associated. Some studies found other indicators of great risk for suicide reattempts. Machine Learning algorithms offer the potential for systematic detection of features that carry greater risk for an event. This study sought to develop a classification algorithm distinguishing between Single Suicide Attempters (SSA) and Multiple Suicide Attempters (MSA) in a Spanish multicentre national cohort to explore prediction of subsequent attempts in suicidal patients. Two models including the same sociodemographic and clinical variables grouped in more specific (Model I) or broad (Model II) categories were developed to explore risk factors for suicide reattempts. A Least Absolute Shrinkage and Regression Operator logistic regression with a 10-fold cross-validation was adopted. 1443 adult patients from the SURVIVE cohort were included (582 SSA and 861 MSA). Both Model I (AUC = 0.696; BAC = 0.644) and Model II (AUC = 0.678; BAC = 0.621) outperformed naïve majority-class classification for SSA and MSA. Bipolar disorder type II, binge-eating disorder, and schizophrenia variables weighted heavier on Model I for suicide reattempt-related; while eating disorder diagnosis, Africa as birthplace, affective disorder diagnosis, being employed, schizophrenia-spectrum disorder and substance use disorder diagnoses were the most important suicide reattempt-related of Model II. Affective disorders, eating disorders and schizophrenia-spectrum disorders emerged as the most important variables in predicting reattempts. Both models showed similar sensitivity and specificity when discriminating between SSA and MSA. Identifying specific risk factors for reattempts could have a significant impact on tailoring prevention strategies and interventions.
COVID-19 in children and young adults with moderate/severe inborn errors of immunity in a high burden area in pre-vaccine era
(Elsevier B.V., 2021-08-12) Deyá Martínez, Àngela; García García, Ana Pilar; González Navarro, E. Azucena; Yiyi, Luo; Vlagea, Alexandru; Jordán García, Iolanda; Fumadó, Victoria; Fortuny, Clàudia; Español Rego, Marta; Launes Montaña, Cristian; Esteve-Solé, Ana; Juan, Manel; Pascal i Capdevila, Mariona; Alsina Manrique de Lara, Laia
Background Information regarding inborn error of immunity (IEI) as a risk factor for severe COVID-19 is scarce. We aimed to determine if paediatric patients with moderate/severe IEI got COVID-19 at the same level as the general population, and to describe COVID-19 expression. Material and methods We included patients with moderate/severe IEI aged 0–21 years old: cross-sectional study (June2020) to determine the prevalence of COVID-19; prospective study (January2020-January2021) including IEI patients with COVID-19. Assays used: nasopharyngeal swab SARS-CoV-2 PCR and SARS-CoV-2-specific immunoglobulins. Results Seven from sixty-five patients tested positive (prevalence: 10.7% (7%–13%)) after the first SARS-COV-2 wave and 13/15 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 had an asymptomatic/mild course. Conclusions In our area, prevalence of COVID-19 in moderate/severe IEI paediatric patients after the first wave was slightly higher than in the general population. The majority of patients presented a benign course, suggesting a possible protective factor related with age despite IEI.
Anatomy of the Dorsomedial Cutaneous Nerve to Hallux and Surgical Implications According to the Severity of Hallux Valgus Deformity: A Cadaveric Study
(Elsevier, 2021-09-01) Soares, Sergio; Campos, Gustavo; Mota Gomes, Tiago; Medeiros, Filipe; Martín Oliva, Xavier
The dorsomedial cutaneous nerve to hallux provides sensation to the dorsomedial aspect of the first metatarsophalangeal joint and hallux. Postoperative damage to the dorsomedial cutaneous nerve to hallux have been reported with the dorsomedial approach and symptoms can be very debilitating. The present study aims to understand how the distance between this nerve and the extensor hallucis longus tendon are affected by the severity of the hallux valgus deformity, at the level of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. We performed a cadaveric study using 35 cadaveric lower extremities (N = 35). Each specimen was classified according to the hallux valgus severity through a 30 kg partial weight-bearing antero-posterior radiograph. Before dissection, the lower extremities’ greater saphenous vein was injected with black latex to simplify the distinction between anatomical structures. We concluded that as the hallux valgus angle and the first intermetatarsal angle increase, the distance between the dorsomedial cutaneous nerve to hallux and the extensor hallucis longus tendon also increases, ranging from 12 mm in normal feet to 19 mm in severely deformed feet. Hallux valgus is a three-dimensional deformity that changes traditional surgical landmarks. To avoid harming this nerve, we established a danger zone ranging from 12 mm to 19 mm medial from the extensor hallucis longus tendon, at the level of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The mid-medial approach to MTP should be preferred as it is out of the danger zone.
Spike-based COVID-19 immunization increases antibodies to nucleocapsid antigen
(Elsevier, 2021-10-25) Izquierdo, Luis; Aguilar, Ruth; Moncunill Piñas, Gemma; Dobaño, Carlota, 1969-; Jiménez, Alfons; Rubio Bodí, Rocío; Alonso, Selena; Ramírez Morros, Anna; Vidal, Marta; Vidal Alaball, Josep; Ruiz Comellas, Anna; Garcia Basteiro, Alberto
Antibodies to the nucleocapsid (N) antigen are suggested to be used to monitor infections after COVID-19 vaccination, as first generation subunit vaccines are based on the spike (S) protein. We used multiplex immunoassays to simultaneously measure antibody responses to different fragments of the SARS-CoV-2 S and N antigens for evaluating the immunogenicity of the mRNA-1273 (Spykevax) and the BNT162b2 (Comirnaty) vaccines in 445 health care workers. We report a >4-fold increase post-vaccination of IgG levels to the full length (N FL) and C-terminus of N (N CT) in 5.2% and 18.0% of individuals, respectively, and of IgA in 3.6% (N FL) and 9.0% (N CT) of them. The increase in IgG levels and avidity was more pronounced after Spykevax than Comirnaty vaccination (36.2% vs 13.1% for N CT, and 10.6% vs 3.7% for N FL). Data suggest the induction of cross-reactive antibodies against the N CT region after administering these S-based vaccines, and this should be taken into account when using N seropositivity to detect breakthroughs.
Moving towards a Treatable Traits model of care for the Management of obstructive airways diseases
(Elsevier B.V., 2021-08) Pavord, Ian D.; Thomas, Mike; Walker, Samantha; Yates, Louisa; Agustí García-Navarro, Àlvar; Barnes, Neil; Cruz, Alvaro A.; Gibson, Peter G.; Heaney, Liam G.; Inoue, Hiromasa; Leather, David; Martinez, Fernando J.; McDonal, Vanessa M.; Oppenheimer, John; Papi, Alberto
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are two prevalent chronic airways diseases. Both are complex and heterogeneous. Traditionally, clinical guidelines have advocated a stepwise approach to pharmacotherapy of asthma and COPD, but there is increasing realization that both require a more personalized and precise management approach. To this end, a management strategy based on the so-called Treatable Traits has been proposed. Emerging evidence suggests that this model improves relevant outcomes in patients with chronic airway diseases but further research is needed to guide implementation. This review discusses the challenges, opportunities, and hurdles that its implementation will have to face.
Feasibility of the Xemio app for breast cancer survivors in a clinical setting: Adherence, acceptance, and side effect monitoring (CTCAE vs. QoL).
(Public Library of Science (PLoS), 2026-05-13) Fuentes Expósito, Maria Angeles; Frid, Santiago; Muñoz Mateu, Montserrat; Sisó Almirall, Antoni; Armayones Ruiz, Manuel; Grau Corral, Inmaculada
Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, posing significant challenges for survivors, including long-term physical, emotional, and cognitive effects. Mobile health (mHealth) tools provide new opportunities to support these patients by enabling symptom tracking, side effect management, and personalized interventions. This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the Xemio-Research mHealth application as a digital support tool for breast cancer survivors in a clinical setting. It assessed user adherence, system usability, and patient experience. A secondary objective was to compare self-reported side effects in the app with traditional quality-of-life questionnaires. This prospective study was conducted over one year within a European research project. Breast cancer survivors were recruited from a clinical setting, where they installed the Xemio-Research app and were guided on its use. During the study period, participants tracked symptoms, reported side effects, and engaged with the app. Adherence was measured through interaction logs and activity tracking. Usability was assessed using a validated scale, and patient feedback was collected through structured and open-ended survey questions. Among 61 enrolled participants, 49 actively used the app. Adherence was high in the first three months (96%) but declined to 35% by the final trimester. Usability was rated as excellent (82.78/100), and 87% of respondents recommended the app. The app enabled more detailed symptom tracking compared to traditional quality-of-life questionnaires, particularly for joint pain, tingling, and muscle weakness. The Xemio-Research app demonstrated feasibility and acceptability for breast cancer survivors, offering valuable insights into patient-reported outcomes and side effect management. However, sustaining long-term engagement remains a challenge. Integrating real-time symptom tracking with conventional assessments may enhance personalized care and survivorship outcomes. This study is a sub-study of the clinical trial registered under ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT05401643).
Conceptualising hepatitis C stigma: A thematic synthesis of qualitative research
(Elsevier, 2021-10-30) Harris, Magdalena; Guy, Danielle; Picchio, Camila A.; White, Trenton M.; Rhodes, T.; Lazarus, Jeffrey V.
While commonly employed as a framing concept, much research lacks explicit theoretical or critical engagement on how stigma is conceptualised. There is a tendency for qualitative, empirical research to focus on risk factors shaping individual behaviour change, rather than on risk contexts and socio-structural change. Approaches to address stigma in relation to HCV must consider how stigma operates throughout social processes and is embedded in systems of power and normalised in institutional operating systems.
Incorporating social vulnerability in infectious disease mathematical modelling: a scoping review
(BioMed Central, 2024-03-18) Naidoo, Megan; Shephard, Whitney; Kambewe, Innocensia; Mtshali, Nokuthula; Cope, Sky; Alves Rubio, Felipe; Rasella, Davide
Background: Highlighted by the rise of COVID-19, climate change, and conflict, socially vulnerable populations are least resilient to disaster. In infectious disease management, mathematical models are a commonly used tool. Researchers should include social vulnerability in models to strengthen their utility in reflecting real-world dynamics. We conducted a scoping review to evaluate how researchers have incorporated social vulnerability into infectious disease mathematical models. Methods: The methodology followed the Joanna Briggs Institute and updated Arksey and O'Malley frameworks, verified by the PRISMA-ScR checklist. PubMed, Clarivate Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO Africa Wide Information, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched for peer-reviewed published articles. Screening and extracting data were done by two independent researchers. Results: Of 4075 results, 89 articles were identified. Two-thirds of articles used a compartmental model (n = 58, 65.2%), with a quarter using agent-based models (n = 24, 27.0%). Overall, routine indicators, namely age and sex, were among the most frequently used measures (n = 42, 12.3%; n = 22, 6.4%, respectively). Only one measure related to culture and social behaviour (0.3%). For compartmental models, researchers commonly constructed distinct models for each level of a social vulnerability measure and included new parameters or influenced standard parameters in model equations (n = 30, 51.7%). For all agent-based models, characteristics were assigned to hosts (n = 24, 100.0%), with most models including age, contact behaviour, and/or sex (n = 18, 75.0%; n = 14, 53.3%; n = 10, 41.7%, respectively). Conclusions: Given the importance of equitable and effective infectious disease management, there is potential to further the field. Our findings demonstrate that social vulnerability is not considered holistically. There is a focus on incorporating routine demographic indicators but important cultural and social behaviours that impact health outcomes are excluded. It is crucial to develop models that foreground social vulnerability to not only design more equitable interventions, but also to develop more effective infectious disease control and elimination strategies. Furthermore, this study revealed the lack of transparency around data sources, inconsistent reporting, lack of collaboration with local experts, and limited studies focused on modelling cultural indicators. These challenges are priorities for future research.
Microbial phenolic metabolites are associated with better frontal lobe cognition
(Tsinghua University Press, 2024-12-18) Domínguez López, Inés; Parilli Moser, Isabella; Vallverdú i Queralt, Anna; Tresserra i Rimbau, Anna; Valls Pedret, Cinta; Vázquez Ruiz, Zenaida; Castañer Niño, Olga; Estruch Riba, Ramon; Ros Rahola, Emilio; Lamuela Raventós, Rosa Ma.
With increasing life expectancy, neurodegenerative diseases have become one of the leading causes of illhealth in the elderly. Preventive strategies include following healthy diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, which is particularly rich in polyphenols, bioactive compounds with neuroprotective properties. The aim of this study was to assess the association of microbial phenolic metabolites (MPM) with cognition. This cross-sectional analysis was performed with 200 participants of the PREDIMED trial (Barcelona-Clinic recruitment center). A novel method based on liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry was used to identify urinary MPM (protocatechuic acid, enterodiol glucuronide, enterolactone glucuronide, urolithin B glucuronide, and vanillic acid glucuronide), and cognitive function was evaluated with neuropsychological tests. Multivariable-adjusted ordinary least squares regression was used to assess the associations between cognitive function and MPM, and a score was calculated as the weighted sum of MPM. A higher MPM score was associated with better frontal lobe function. Among individual metabolites, vanillic acid glucuronide was correlated with frontal cognitive performance. Participants with higher concentrations of vanillic acid glucuronide and urolithin B glucuronide obtained better scores in the Color Trail Test part 2. A higher score for urinary multiMPM was associated with better frontal cognitive performance in an older Mediterranean population.
How to incorporate social vulnerability into epidemic mathematical modelling: recommendations from an international Delphi
(Elsevier Ltd., 2025-10-01) Naidoo, Megan; Shephard, Whitney; Mtshali, Nokuthula; Kambewe, Innocensia; Muthien, Bernedette; Abuelezam, Nadia N.; Ponce de Leon, Miguel; Villela, Daniel A. M.; Paes Sousa, Romulo; Pan Ngum, Wirichada; Dowdy, David; Morse, Stephen S.; Pena, Daiana; Barberia, Lorena G.; Houben, Rein M. G. J.; Arcos González, Pedro; Robertson, Jamela E.; Muleia, Rachid; Lawal, Olanrewaju; Rasella, Davide
Epidemic mathematical modelling plays a crucial role in understanding and responding to infectious disease epidemics. However, these models often neglect social vulnerability (SV): the social, economic, political, and health system inequalities that inform disease dynamics. Despite its importance in health outcomes, SV is not routinely included in epidemic modelling. Given the critical need to include SV but limited direction, this paper aimed to develop research recommendations to incorporate SV in epidemic mathematical modelling. Using the Delphi technique, 22 interdisciplinary experts from 12 countries were surveyed to reach consensus on research recommendations. Three rounds of online surveys were completed, consisting of free-text and seven-point Likert scale questions. Descriptive statistics and inductive qualitative analyses were conducted. Consensus was reached on 27 recommendations across seven themes: collaboration, design, data selection, data sources, relationship dynamics, reporting, and calibration and sensitivity. Experts also identified 92 indicators of SV with access to sanitation (n = 14, 6.1 %), access to healthcare (n = 12, 5.3 %), and household density and composition (n = 12, 5.3 %) as the most frequently cited. Given the recent focus on the social determinants of pandemic resilience, this study provides both process and technical recommendations to incorporate SV into epidemic modelling. SV's inclusion provides a more holistic view of the real world and calls attention to communities at risk. This supports forecasting accuracy and the success of policy and programmatic interventions.
Sensorimotor Frequency Tagging Is Enhanced by Auditory and Audiovisual but Not Visual, Inputs During a Body-Walking Task
(Wiley, 2026-02-01) Matamala Gómez, Marta; Vilà-Balló, Adrià; Cucurell, David; Tajadura-Jimenez, Ana; Rodríguez Fornells, Antoni
Body movements like walking can synchronize with auditory and visual inputs presented within a periodic frequency range, peaking around 2 Hz. Some evidence has shown that the spontaneous tempo of human locomotion is around 2 Hz. The EEG frequency-tagging approach allows us to capture the coupling of beat perception with neural brain oscillations at beat frequency. This study used EEG frequency tagging to explore brain dynamics during the perception of walking-related sensory information in the auditory (footstep sounds) and visual (point-light figure) modalities. Sensory inputs were delivered at different rates (1, 2, and 3.6 Hz) in rhythmic or random sequences while recording EEG activity. The experiment included three conditions: (i) auditory, (ii) visual, and (iii) audiovisual, including data from 22 participants. Results showed a main effect of rhythmic sequences compared with random sequences across all frequencies in all three auditory, visual, or audiovisual conditions. Specifically, at 2 Hz, rhythmic sequences enhanced neural entrainment in the sensorimotor cortex for auditory and audiovisual conditions. This effect was absent in the visual condition alone. Notably, 2 Hz rhythmic sequences in the audiovisual condition led to coupling with temporal, sensorimotor, and occipital regions. The study suggests that sensory auditory input related to walking movement presented at 2 Hz can mediate neural entrainment with sensorimotor areas. The findings of this study can have an impact on the spontaneous rhythmic integration of body movements using sensory inputs for walking rehabilitation.
Efficacy and safety of the Clearum dialyzer
(Blackwell Science, 2021-05-12) Maduell, Francisco; Broseta, José Jesús; Rodríguez Espinosa, Diana; Hermida, Evelyn; Cuadrado Payán, Elena; Rodas, Lida M.; Gómez, Miquel; Arias Guillén, Marta; Fontseré, Néstor; Vera, Manel; Rico, Nayra
The Clearum dialyzer, built by Medtronic, became commercially available in several European countries in 2020, but there are still no reports of in vivo data. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and risk of hypoalbuminemia of this dialyzer compared with previously evaluated hemodialysis (HD), expanded hemodialysis (HDx), and postdilution hemodiafiltration (HDF) treatments. A prospective study was carried out in 15 patients. Each patient underwent seven dialysis sessions: FX80 Cordiax in HD, Clearum HS17 in HD, Phylther 17-SD in HDx, Theranova 400 in HDx, Phylther 17-G in postdilution HDF, Clearum HS17 in postdilution HDF, and FX80 Cordiax in postdilution HDF. The reduction ratios of urea, creatinine, ß2-microglobulin, myoglobin, prolactin, α1-microglobulin, α1-acid glycoprotein, and albumin were compared intraindividually. Dialysate albumin loss was also measured. Comparison of dialysis techniques revealed no differences between small molecules, but HDx and HDF were significantly higher than HD with medium and large molecular weights. The Clearum dialyzer in HDF obtained similar results to FX80 Cordiax in HDF, was slightly superior to Phylther 17-G in HDF, and was statistically superior to both dialyzers in HDx. Albumin losses with the Clearum dialyzer were among the lowest, both in HD and HDF treatments. The highest global removal score (GRS) values were obtained with the helixone and Clearum dialyzers in HDF, with similar results both in HD and HDF. In addition, the GRS values with HDx treatments were statistically significantly higher than those with HD. The new Clearum dialyzer has excellent behavior and tolerance in HD and HDF. Its adequate permeability has been proven with its maximal performance in HDF, which could represent an upgrade versus its predecessor polyphenylene dialyzers.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in the diagnosis of paediatric tuberculosis
(Oxford University Press, 2026-02-09) Munyangaju, Isabelle; Carratalà Castro, Lucía; Osório, Dulce; Bigio, Jacob; Mateyo, Kondwelani John; Vonasek, Bryan J.; Buonsenso, Danilo; Bassat Orellana, Quique; Serres Créixams, Xavier; Thierry-Chef, Isabelle; Garcia Basteiro, Alberto; Pai, Madhukar; López Varela, Elisa
Diagnosing tuberculosis (TB) in children is challenging due to non-specific symptoms, paucibacillary disease, and difficulty producing sputum. Chest X-rays (CXRs), though widely used, are often inaccessible in low-resource settings and involve radiation. Ultrasound (US) is a radiation-free, portable, and potentially low-cost alternative that can detect pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB features. However, its diagnostic accuracy in paediatric TB remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed US diagnostic performance for paediatric TB across anatomical sites. Following PRISMA-DTA guidelines, we searched five databases through May 2025. Studies were included if they involved children under 15 with presumptive TB and reported US diagnostic accuracy data. Data extraction, quality assessment (QUADAS-2), and meta-analyses using a bivariate random-effects model were conducted. Graham’s TB classification served as the reference standard. CXR was used as a comparator where available, with agreement assessed via Cohen’s kappa. Of 17 019 records, 7 studies involving 945 children met inclusion criteria. Pooled US sensitivity was 52% (95% CI: 46–58%), and specificity was 76% (95% CI: 67–83%). US showed high specificity but low sensitivity across most features, including abdominal lymphadenopathy and pericardial effusion; pleural effusion had slightly higher sensitivity (18%). Agreement with CXR was moderate (kappa 0.24–0.42). Variability in US protocols, operator skills, and reference standards limited generalizability. Only one study had low risk of bias across all QUADAS-2 domains. US is a promising adjunct for paediatric TB diagnosis in resource-limited settings, but standardization and validation are needed to improve its standalone utility.

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