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Pharmaceutics Jul 2023The incidence of gastrointestinal cancers has increased in recent years. Current treatments present numerous challenges, including drug resistance, non-specificity, and... (Review)
Review
The incidence of gastrointestinal cancers has increased in recent years. Current treatments present numerous challenges, including drug resistance, non-specificity, and severe side effects, needing the exploration of new therapeutic strategies. One promising avenue is the use of magnetic nanoparticles, which have gained considerable interest due to their ability to generate heat in tumor regions upon the application of an external alternating magnetic field, a process known as hyperthermia. This review conducted a systematic search of in vitro and in vivo studies published in the last decade that employ hyperthermia therapy mediated by magnetic nanoparticles for treating gastrointestinal cancers. After applying various inclusion and exclusion criteria (studies in the last 10 years where hyperthermia using alternative magnetic field is applied), a total of 40 articles were analyzed. The results revealed that iron oxide is the preferred material for magnetism generation in the nanoparticles, and colorectal cancer is the most studied gastrointestinal cancer. Interestingly, novel therapies employing nanoparticles loaded with chemotherapeutic drugs in combination with magnetic hyperthermia demonstrated an excellent antitumor effect. In conclusion, hyperthermia treatments mediated by magnetic nanoparticles appear to be an effective approach for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers, offering advantages over traditional therapies.
PubMed: 37514144
DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071958 -
Developmental Medicine and Child... Sep 2023To explore altered structural and functional connectivity and network organization in cerebral palsy (CP), by clinical CP subtype (unilateral spastic, bilateral spastic,... (Review)
Review
AIM
To explore altered structural and functional connectivity and network organization in cerebral palsy (CP), by clinical CP subtype (unilateral spastic, bilateral spastic, dyskinetic, and ataxic CP).
METHOD
PubMed and Embase databases were systematically searched. Extracted data included clinical characteristics, analyses, outcome measures, and results.
RESULTS
Sixty-five studies were included, of which 50 investigated structural connectivity, and 20 investigated functional connectivity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (14 studies) or electroencephalography (six studies). Five of the 50 studies of structural connectivity and one of 14 of functional connectivity investigated whole-brain network organization. Most studies included patients with unilateral spastic CP; none included ataxic CP.
INTERPRETATION
Differences in structural and functional connectivity were observed between investigated clinical CP subtypes and typically developing individuals on a wide variety of measures, including efferent, afferent, interhemispheric, and intrahemispheric connections. Directions for future research include extending knowledge in underrepresented CP subtypes and methodologies, evaluating the prognostic potential of specific connectivity and network measures in neonates, and understanding therapeutic effects on brain connectivity.
Topics: Infant, Newborn; Humans; Cerebral Palsy; Muscle Spasticity; Brain; Magnetic Resonance Imaging
PubMed: 36750309
DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15516 -
Journal of Neural Engineering Nov 2023Electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are two commonly used non-invasive techniques for measuring brain activity in neuroscience... (Review)
Review
Electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are two commonly used non-invasive techniques for measuring brain activity in neuroscience and brain-computer interfaces (BCI).. In this review, we focus on the use of EEG and fMRI in neurofeedback (NF) and discuss the challenges of combining the two modalities to improve understanding of brain activity and achieve more effective clinical outcomes. Advanced technologies have been developed to simultaneously record EEG and fMRI signals to provide a better understanding of the relationship between the two modalities. However, the complexity of brain processes and the heterogeneous nature of EEG and fMRI present challenges in extracting useful information from the combined data.. We will survey existing EEG-fMRI combinations and recent studies that exploit EEG-fMRI in NF, highlighting the experimental and technical challenges.. We made a classification of the different combination of EEG-fMRI for NF, we provide a review of multimodal analysis methods for EEG-fMRI features. We also survey the current state of research on EEG-fMRI in the different existing NF paradigms. Finally, we also identify some of the remaining challenges in this field.. By exploring EEG-fMRI combinations in NF, we are advancing our knowledge of brain function and its applications in clinical settings. As such, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and engineers working in the field of neural engineering and rehabilitation, highlighting the promising future of EEG-fMRI-based NF.
Topics: Neurofeedback; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Brain-Computer Interfaces; Electroencephalography; Brain
PubMed: 37879343
DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ad06e1 -
International Psychogeriatrics Nov 2023Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are a group of noncognitive symptoms that occur commonly among individuals with dementia. These symptoms worsen... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are a group of noncognitive symptoms that occur commonly among individuals with dementia. These symptoms worsen the morbidity and mortality among individuals with dementia and significantly increase the cost of caring for these individuals. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been shown to have some benefits in the treatment of BPSD. This review provides an updated summary of the effect of TMS on BPSD.
METHODS
We conducted a systematic review of PubMed, Cochrane, and Ovid databases on the use of TMS to treat BPSD.
RESULTS
We found 11 randomized controlled studies that evaluated the use of TMS among individuals with BPSD. Three of these studies examined the effect of TMS on apathy, two of which showed significant benefit. Seven studies showed that TMS significantly improves BPSD: six using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and one using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Four studies, two evaluating tDCS, one evaluating rTMS, and one evaluating intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) showed a nonsignificant impact of TMS on BPSD. Adverse events were predominantly mild and transitory in all studies.
CONCLUSION
Available data from this review indicate that rTMS is beneficial for individuals with BPSD, especially among individuals with apathy, and is well tolerated. However, more data are needed to prove the efficacy of tDCS and iTBS. Additionally, more randomized controlled trials with longer treatment follow-up and standardized use of BPSD assessments are needed to determine the best dose, duration, and modality for effective treatment of BPSD.
Topics: Humans; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation; Pain Management; Treatment Outcome; Dementia
PubMed: 36803624
DOI: 10.1017/S1041610223000091 -
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews Jan 2024Low-intensity transcranial ultrasound stimulation (LITUS) is a novel non-invasive neuromodulation technique. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate current... (Review)
Review
Low-intensity transcranial ultrasound stimulation (LITUS) is a novel non-invasive neuromodulation technique. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate current evidence on the efficacy and safety of LITUS neuromodulation. Five databases were searched from inception to May 31, 2023. Randomized controlled human trials and controlled animal studies were included. The neuromodulation effects of LITUS on clinical or pre-clinical, neurophysiological, neuroimaging, histological and biochemical outcomes, and adverse events were summarized. In total, 11 human studies and 44 animal studies were identified. LITUS demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, pain, sleep disorders and hypertension. LITUS-related changes in neuronal structure and cortical activity were found. From histological and biochemical perspectives, prominent findings included suppressing the inflammatory response and facilitating neurogenesis. No adverse effects were reported in controlled animal studies included in our review, while reversible headache, nausea, and vomiting were reported in a few human subjects. Overall, LITUS alleviates various symptoms and modulates associated brain circuits without major side effects. Future research needs to establish a solid therapeutic framework for LITUS.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Brain; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; Animals, Laboratory; Neuroimaging; Pain; Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation
PubMed: 38061596
DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105501 -
Psychiatry Research Nov 2023While pharmacological strategies appear to be ineffective in treating long-term addiction, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is emerging as a promising... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
While pharmacological strategies appear to be ineffective in treating long-term addiction, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is emerging as a promising new tool for the attenuation of craving among multiple substance dependent populations.
METHOD
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted on the efficacy and tolerability of rTMS in treating cocaine use disorder (CUD). Relevant papers published in English through November 30 2022 were identified, searching the electronic databases MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library.
RESULTS
Eight studies matched inclusion criteria. The best findings were reported by the RCTs conducted at high-frequency (≥5 Hz) multiple sessions of rTMS delivered over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC): a significant decrease in self-reported cue-induced cocaine craving and lower cocaine craving scores and a considerable amelioration in the tendency to act rashly under extreme negative emotions (impulsivity) were found in the active group compared to controls.
CONCLUSION
Although still scant and heterogeneous, the strongest evidence so far on the use of rTMS on individuals with CUD support the high frequency stimulation over the left DLPFC as a well tolerated treatment of cocaine craving and impulsivity.
Topics: Humans; Cocaine-Related Disorders; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; Prefrontal Cortex; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Cocaine; Substance-Related Disorders; Craving; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 37783092
DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115491 -
European Urology Oncology Dec 2023It is unclear whether a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted transperineal (TP) biopsy can improve the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Is There an Impact of Transperineal Versus Transrectal Magnetic Resonance Imaging-targeted Biopsy in Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer Detection Rate? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
CONTEXT
It is unclear whether a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted transperineal (TP) biopsy can improve the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa).
OBJECTIVE
To compare the MRI-targeted TP and transrectal (TR) approaches for csPCa detection.
EVIDENCE ACQUISITION
A literature search was conducted using the PubMed/Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases to identify reports published until February 2023. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines were followed to identify eligible studies. The primary outcome was the detection of csPCa (Gleason grade group ≥2). Sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate csPCa detection rates according to tumor location, Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) score, and type of fusion (cognitive or software based).
EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS
Eleven studies met our inclusion criteria, and data from 3522 and 5140 patients who underwent, respectively, TR and TP MRI-targeted biopsies were reviewed. No statistically significant difference in the detection of csPCa was observed between the TR and TP approaches (odds ratio [OR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98-1.25; p = 0.1). When stratifying patients according to lesion location, the TP approach was associated with higher csPCa detection in case of anterior (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.46-3.22; p < 0.001) and apical (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.14-3.03; p = 0.01) lesions. In the subgroup analysis based on PI-RADS score, the TP approach was associated with higher csPCa detection (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.07-2.29; p = 0.02) in PI-RADS 4 lesions. Conversely, no difference was found in PI-RADS 3 and 5 lesions (p > 0.05). The main limitation was the retrospective design of most included studies.
CONCLUSIONS
No significant association was found between the prostate biopsy approach and csPCa detection rate when we considered all biopsy indications. The TP approach provides a detection advantage in anterior and apical tumors, arguing for a preferred use of the TP approach in these lesion locations.
PATIENT SUMMARY
The transperineal magnetic resonance imaging-targeted prostate biopsy approach appears to be more effective only for selected lesions. No clear benefit was seen for the transperineal approach in the overall population.
Topics: Male; Humans; Prostatic Neoplasms; Prostate; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Retrospective Studies; Biopsy
PubMed: 37634971
DOI: 10.1016/j.euo.2023.08.001 -
BMC Psychiatry Jul 2023Several meta-analyses demonstrated the efficacy of unilateral High-Frequency Left-sided (HFL) repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) for individuals with... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) after two antidepressant treatment failures: meta-analysis of randomized sham-controlled trials.
BACKGROUND
Several meta-analyses demonstrated the efficacy of unilateral High-Frequency Left-sided (HFL) repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) for individuals with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD); however, results are contradictory due to heterogeneity of the included studies.
METHODS
A systematic literature review (SLR) of English language articles published since 2000 was performed in March 2022 on PubMed and Scopus databases. Empirical evidence on the relative efficacy of rTMS treatment compared with standard pharmacotherapy in Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) were extracted. Random effects models were used to assess the effects of rTMS on response and remission rates.
RESULTS
19 randomized double-blinded sham-controlled studies were included for quantitative analysis for response (n = 854 patients) and 9 studies for remission (n = 551 patients). The risk ratio (RR) for response and remission are 2.25 and 2.78, respectively for patients after two treatment failures using rTMS as add-on treatment compared to standard pharmacotherapy. Cochrane's Q test showed no significant heterogeneity. No publication bias was detected.
CONCLUSIONS
rTMS is significantly more effective than sham rTMS in TRD in response and remission outcomes and may be beneficial as an adjunctive treatment in patients with MDD after two treatment failures. This finding is consistent with previous meta-analyses; however, the effect size was smaller than in the formerly published literature.
Topics: Humans; Depressive Disorder, Major; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; Treatment Failure; Antidepressive Agents; Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant; Treatment Outcome; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 37501135
DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05033-y -
Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging :... Jan 2024Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) present a major health burden to society. Changes in brain structure and... (Review)
Review
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) present a major health burden to society. Changes in brain structure and cognition are generally only observed at the late stage of the disease. Although advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques such as diffusion imaging may allow identification of biomarkers at earlier stages of neurodegeneration, early diagnosis is still challenging. Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is a noninvasive MRI technique for studying the mechanical properties of tissues by measuring the wave propagation induced in the tissues using a purpose-built actuator. Here, we present a systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies in which MRE has been applied to study neurodegenerative diseases. Actuator systems for data acquisition, inversion algorithms for data analysis, and sample demographics are described and tissue stiffness measures obtained for the whole brain and internal structures are summarized. A total of six animal studies and eight human studies have been published. The animal studies refer to 123 experimental animals (68 AD and 55 PD) and 121 wild-type animals, while the human studies refer to 142 patients with neurodegenerative disease (including 56 AD and 17 PD) and 166 controls. The animal studies are consistent in the reporting of decreased stiffness of the hippocampal region in AD mice. However, in terms of disease progression, although consistent decreases in either storage modulus or shear modulus magnitude are reported for whole brain, there is variation in the results reported for the hippocampal region. The clinical studies are consistent in reports of a significant decrease in either whole brain storage modulus or shear modulus magnitude, in both AD and PD and with different brain structures affected in different neurodegenerative diseases. MRE studies of neurodegenerative diseases are still in their infancy, and in future it will be interesting to investigate potential relationships between brain mechanical properties and clinical measures, which may help elucidate the mechanisms underlying onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. EVIDENCE LEVEL: 1. TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.
Topics: Humans; Mice; Animals; Neurodegenerative Diseases; Elasticity Imaging Techniques; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Brain; Alzheimer Disease; Parkinson Disease
PubMed: 37084171
DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28747 -
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews Sep 2023This systematic review examined whether neural responses to visual food-cues measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are influenced by physical... (Review)
Review
This systematic review examined whether neural responses to visual food-cues measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are influenced by physical activity. Seven databases were searched up to February 2023 for human studies evaluating visual food-cue reactivity using fMRI alongside an assessment of habitual physical activity or structured exercise exposure. Eight studies (1 exercise training, 4 acute crossover, 3 cross-sectional) were included in a qualitative synthesis. Structured acute and chronic exercise appear to lower food-cue reactivity in several brain regions, including the insula, hippocampus, orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), postcentral gyrus and putamen, particularly when viewing high-energy-density food cues. Exercise, at least acutely, may enhance appeal of low-energy-density food-cues. Cross-sectional studies show higher self-reported physical activity is associated with lower reactivity to food-cues particularly of high-energy-density in the insula, OFC, postcentral gyrus and precuneus. This review shows that physical activity may influence brain food-cue reactivity in motivational, emotional, and reward-related processing regions, possibly indicative of a hedonic appetite-suppressing effect. Conclusions should be drawn cautiously given considerable methodological variability exists across limited evidence.
Topics: Humans; Cues; Cross-Sectional Studies; Food; Brain; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Exercise
PubMed: 37236384
DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105247