Search Results (3,020)

Background/Purpose: Skilled motor performance depends on the action–observation networks (AONs), which supports the internal simulation of perceived movements. While expertise effects are well-documented in sports, neuroimaging evidence in golf is scarce, particularly on temporal dynamics across swing phases. This study examines how golf expertise modulates AON activation and functional connectivity during temporally distinct swing phases (pre-hitting vs. hitting) and assesses implications for predictive-coding models of motor skill. Methods: Fifty-seven participants (elite golfers: n = 28; controls: n = 29) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning while viewing golf swing videos segmented into pre-hitting and hitting phases. Data analysis employed generalized linear models (GLMs) with two-sample t-tests for group comparisons and generalized psychophysiological interaction (gPPI) to assess functional connectivity using GLM-identified activation clusters as seeds. Results: (1) Compared to controls, elite golfers showed stronger activation in right insula and posterior cingulate cortex during pre-hitting, and in right cerebellum and bilateral postcentral cortex during hitting phases. The hitting > pre-hitting contrast revealed enhanced bilateral postcentral gyrus activation in golfers. (2) gPPI analysis demonstrated significant group × phase interaction in functional connectivity between right postcentral gyrus and left precuneus. Conclusions: Elite golf expertise dynamically retunes AON across swing phases, shifting from anticipatory interoceptive processing to impact-centered sensorimotor–parietal circuitry. These findings refine predictive-coding models of motor skill and identify the postcentral–precuneus loop as a potential target for neurofeedback interventions aimed at optimizing golf performance. Full article

The coronary no-reflow phenomenon remains a daunting and unresolved barrier during percutaneous coronary procedures, especially for acute coronary syndrome. Despite successful epicardial artery patency restoration, decreased microvascular perfusion leads to unfavorable outcomes such as ventricular remodeling, progression of heart failure, and increased mortality. This review provides a new, integrative informative perspective by combining multifactorial pathophysiology, which includes systemic inflammation, thrombogenicity, ischemia–reperfusion injury, and distal embolization, with advances in diagnostic imaging, such as cardiac magnetic resonance and computed tomography. Therapeutic options, including antithrombotic regimes, vasodilators, and mechanical adjuncts, are evaluated in the context of developing debates and unmet clinical needs. Importantly, we provide feasible future directions for artificial intelligence-based predictive modeling and targeted microvascular treatments. This comprehensive review fills a significant gap, aiming to inform personalized approaches and improve both short- and long-term outcomes in this high-risk patient population. Full article

Electromagnetic heating (EMH) using microwaves has emerged as a promising enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technique, particularly for heavy crude oils where conventional thermal methods encounter technical and environmental challenges. However, its large-scale implementation remains limited due to incomplete understanding of its energy transfer mechanisms. This study proposes an experimental–numerical approach integrating magnetic graphene oxide nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄@GO) with microwave heating to enhance energy absorption near the wellbore. The nanomaterial was synthesized via a modified Hummer’s method followed by in situ magnetite precipitation and studied through multiple material characterization techniques showing uniform 80 nm particles with superparamagnetic behavior—ideal for EMH applications. Nine experiments were conducted on sand–heavy-oil–water systems with nanoparticle concentrations up to 500 ppm using a laboratory microwave heating prototype. A simulation model was then developed in CMG-STARS for history matching to estimate energy absorption as a function of saturation and nanoparticle concentration. Experiments reached temperatures up to 240 °C, with 653 MJ of effective heat transferred to the target zone over 55 h, as estimated from the input heat required in the simulator for history matching. The results confirm that magnetic graphene oxide nanoparticles enhance thermal efficiency and heat distribution in microwave-assisted EOR. Full article

Lipid debris generated after ischemic stroke overwhelms myeloid cells, leading to foam cell-like dysfunction and chronic neuroinflammation. 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD), a cholesterol-mobilizing agent, has been shown to improve recovery and reduce chronic inflammation after stroke by enhancing lipid processing and cholesterol efflux in infarcts. To identify plasma biomarkers of HPβCD activity and gain mechanistic insight into lipid pathway modulation, aged (21-month-old) male mice underwent the distal middle cerebral artery occlusion + hypoxia (DH) model of stroke and received 2 g/kg HPβCD twice daily beginning 1 d after stroke. Plasma metabolomic and lipidomic profiling was performed 4 d after stroke using untargeted (Global Discovery) and targeted (Complex Lipid, Oxysterols, and Lipid Mediators of Inflammation) panels. Acute neuroprotection was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) quantification of infarct, ventricle, and hippocampus volumes 2 d after stroke and by plasma neurofilament light (NfL) levels 4 d after stroke. HPβCD treatment did not provide acute neuroprotection; however, HPβCD did induce distinct plasma metabolomic and lipidomic signatures, including decreases in sphingolipids, cholesterol, long-chain fatty acids, 4β-hydroxycholesterol, 7-dehydrocholesterol, and 8-dehydrocholesterol and increases in 27-hydroxycholesterol and 7α-hydroxy-3-oxo-4-cholestenoic acid (7-HOCA), consistent with enhanced cholesterol efflux and metabolism. Pro-inflammatory oxylipins were also suppressed by HPβCD treatment. These results support the role of HPβCD in promoting lipid debris clearance and suppressing inflammatory lipid pathways after stroke and, together with prior studies demonstrating improved long-term recovery, highlight HPβCD as a biomarker-supported therapeutic candidate for stroke recovery. Full article

Localized ¹H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a powerful tool in pre-clinical and clinical neurological research, offering non-invasive insight into neurochemical composition in localized brain regions. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are increasingly being utilized as models in neurological disorder research, providing valuable insights into disease mechanisms. However, the small size of the zebrafish brain and limited MRS sensitivity at low magnetic fields hinder comprehensive neurochemical analysis of localized brain regions. Here, we investigate the potential of ultra-high-field (UHF) MR systems, particularly 28.2 T, for this purpose. This present study pioneers the application of localized ¹H spectroscopy in zebrafish brain at 28.2 T. Point resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) sequence parameters were optimized to reduce the impact of chemical shift displacement error and to enable molecular level information from distinct brain regions. Optimized parameters included gradient strength, excitation frequency, echo time, and voxel volume specifically targeting the 0–4.5 ppm chemical shift regions. Exceptionally high-resolution cerebral metabolite spectra were successfully acquired from localized regions of the zebrafish brain in voxels as small as 125 nL, allowing for the identification and quantification of major brain metabolites with remarkable spectral clarity, including lactate, myo-inositol, creatine, alanine, glutamate, glutamine, choline (phosphocholine + glycerol-phospho-choline), taurine, aspartate, N-acetylaspartyl-glutamate (NAAG), N-acetylaspartate (NAA), and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The unprecedented spatial resolution achieved in a small model organism enabled detailed comparisons of the neurochemical composition across distinct zebrafish brain regions, including the forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain. This level of precision opens exciting new opportunities to investigate how specific diseases in zebrafish models influence the neurochemical composition of specific brain areas. Full article

Cancer is considered today as a prevalent research direction due to the fact that, by 2050, more than 30 million cases will occur, followed by about 19 million deaths. It is expected that scholars will search for new, innovative, and localized therapies to ensure a much more targeted treatment with reduced side effects. Magnetic hydrogels overcome the disadvantages of classical magnetic nanoparticles in various oncological domains, including magnetic hyperthermia, theragnostic, immunotherapy, and, notably, regenerative medicine and contrast substances. We will review the magnetic hydrogel topics that may be involved as a potential application for cancer. Firstly, we present the international context and subject importance in the framework of statistics estimated by some researchers. Then, the magnetic hydrogel synthesis method will be briefly described with examples extracted from the literature. Supplementary, we will emphasize the main attributes of an ideal magnetic hydrogel, and last but not least, we will review some of the latest in vitro and in vivo studies in a direct relationship with magnetic hyperthermia, chemotherapeutic drug release dynamics, and immunotherapy used as single strategies or in combination, by underling the magnetic properties of the hydrogels and importance of application of magnetic fields. We will conclude our review paper by discussing toxicity issues, future trends, limitations, and proposed new approaches to address them. Full article

Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) is a cutting-edge noninvasive imaging technique that offers high sensitivity, quantitative accuracy, and operates without the need for ionizing radiation compared to other imaging techniques. Utilizing superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) as tracers, MPI enables direct and precise visualization of target sites with no limitation on imaging depth. Unlike magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which relies on uniform magnetic fields to produce anatomical images, MPI enables direct, background-free visualization and quantification of SPIONS within living organisms. This article provides an in-depth overview of MPI’s applications in tracking tumor development and supporting cancer therapy. The distinct physical principles that underpin MPI, including its ability to produce high-contrast images devoid of background tissue interference, facilitating accurate tumor identification and real-time monitoring of treatment outcomes, are outlined. The review outlines MPI’s advantages over conventional imaging techniques in terms of sensitivity and resolution, and examines its capabilities in visualizing tumor vasculature, tracking cellular movement, evaluating inflammation, and conducting magnetic hyperthermia treatments. Recent progress in tracer optimization and magnetic navigation has expanded MPI’s potential for targeted drug delivery, along with deep machine learning procedures for MPI applications. Additionally, considerations around safety and the feasibility of clinical implementation are also discussed in the present review. Overall, MPI is positioned as a promising tool in advancing cancer diagnostics, personalized therapy assessment, and noninvasive treatment strategies. Full article

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a multisystem disorder, with early changes extending beyond basal ganglia circuitries and involving non-dopaminergic pathways, including cerebellar networks. Whether cerebellar dysfunction reflects a compensatory mechanism or an intrinsic hallmark of disease progression remains unresolved. In this cross-sectional study, we examined how cerebellar γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate/glutamine (Glx) systems, as well as their excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance, are modulated along the disease course. As to ascertain how these mechanisms contribute to motor and non-motor features in the premotor and early stages of PD, 18 individuals with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD), 20 de novo, drug-naïve PD (dnPD), and 18 matched healthy controls underwent clinical, cognitive, and neuropsychiatric assessments alongside cerebellar magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS, MEGA-PRESS, 3T). While cerebellar neurotransmitter levels did not differ significantly across groups, dnPD patients exhibited a shift toward hyperexcitability in the E/I ratio, without correlation to clinical or cognitive measures. In contrast, in iRBD, an inverse relationship between heightened GABAergic activity and neuropsychiatric symptoms emerged. These findings suggest an early, dynamic cerebellar involvement, potentially reflecting compensatory modulation of altered basal ganglia output. Our results support cerebellar GABA MRS as a promising biomarker and open perspectives for targeting non-dopaminergic pathways in PD. Full article

The advent of nanotechnology has revolutionized the field of medicine, particularly in the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. Among these, radiolabeled nanomaterials have emerged as promising tools for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications, offering precise delivery of radiation to diseased tissues while minimizing damage to healthy ones. Notably, Lutetium-177 (¹⁷⁷Lu) has gained significant attention due to its favorable emission properties and availability that render it suitable for imaging and therapeutic purposes. When integrated with magnetic nano-formulations, ¹⁷⁷Lu-labeled systems combine the benefits of targeted radiation therapy (TRT) with the unique properties of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast enhancement and magnetically guided drug delivery to address challenges in diagnosis and treatment of diseases, such as cancer. By examining the latest advancements in their design, particularly surface functionalization and bioconjugation strategies, this study aims to highlight their efficacy in targeted therapy, imaging, and theranostic applications. Furthermore, we discuss the current challenges, such as scalability, biocompatibility, and regulatory hurdles, while proposing future directions to enhance their clinical translation. This comprehensive review underscores the transformative potential of ¹⁷⁷Lu-labeled magnetic nano-formulations in precision medicine and their role in shaping the future of therapeutic interventions. Full article

Background: Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the growth of benign tumors in various organ systems, with particularly significant effects on the kidneys. Renal manifestations of TSC include angiomyolipomas (AMLs), renal cysts, and a higher risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Nephrological monitoring is crucial for the early detection of kidney changes, the management of hypertension, and the assessment of the risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Ultrasound is typically the initial imaging choice for diagnosis and monitoring, with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) being a preferred imaging modality for long-term surveillance. Patients with TSC have an increased risk of arterial hypertension, renal artery stenosis, and urolithiasis. In some patients, the co-occurrence of TSC and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is caused by the TSC2/PKD1 contiguous gene syndrome (CGS). The primary medical treatment for TSC is a mammalian target of rapamycin kinase inhibitors (mTOR), as they effectively shrink tumors, often reducing or eliminating the need for surgical intervention. Methods: This article aims to review the most recent literature on the diagnosis and management of renal lesions in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), with a particular focus on the role of various imaging techniques. Conclusions: Given the multifactorial nature of this disease, this review emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, including various imaging methods, to improve the care and treatment outcomes of children with tuberous sclerosis complex. Full article

Marine magnetic surveys are vast and time-consuming, and researchers have long been seeking an economical mode for large-area data acquisition. A towed magnetic measurement system was developed based on the motion characteristics of the wave glider. By modifying the SeaSPY2 magnetometer, a twin-body towed configuration was developed, in which an S-shaped towing cable mitigates motion-induced impacts from the platform, and a high-precision GNSS positioning module was integrated into the system. Sea trials were conducted in the coastal waters near Qingdao. The results indicated that the system achieved an average cruising speed of 0.56 m/s, with the towed body’s pitch and roll angles controlled within ±5° and ±1°, respectively. The dynamic noise was measured at 0.0639 nT (Level 1), and the internal consistency for repeated survey lines and cross lines was 1.832 nT and 1.956 nT, respectively, meeting the requirements of marine magnetic survey standards. The system offers unmanned operation, zero carbon emissions, and a minimal environmental footprint, and long endurance, supporting applications such as nearshore exploration, mapping in sensitive marine areas, and underwater magnetic target detection. The research provides a novel unmanned technological solution for deep-sea magnetic surveys and lays the foundation for low-cost, cluster-based operations. Full article

The sensitive and efficient detection of ochratoxin A (OTA) is critical for protecting agricultural ecosystems and public health. A dual-mode plasmonic colorimetric/photothermal aptasensor, based on a Mn²⁺-powered DNA walker for mediating gold nanobipyramid (AuNB) growth, is proposed for OTA detection in this study. In sensing the target OTA, the walking DNA (W-DNA) on the magnetic walker probe was independent and then the environment-friendly Mn²⁺ powered the generation of DNAzyme, where abundant thiol-modified DNA (DNA-SH) was produced by autonomous walking. The positively related DNA-SH level could mediate AuNB growth and reflect dual-mode plasmonic signals. Ultrasensitivity is demonstrated with a limit of detection (LOD) value of 48.6 pg mL⁻¹ for colorimetric mode and 37.6 pg mL⁻¹ for photothermal mode. The aptasensor exhibited high specificity (with cross-reactivity values below 6.2% for other analytes) and high reliability for OTA detection. The requisite practicability and accessibility are verified via its application in agricultural byproduct samples. The findings of this study offer an alternative and efficient biosensing pathway for improving detection performance, enabling green, enzyme-free, homogeneous, and dual-mode strategies for monitoring other pollutants. Full article

Conventional electro-permanent magnet (EPM) lifting/holding systems, typically based on NdFeB magnets, face efficiency limitations because continuous current is required either for standby condition to avoid accidentally attracting the objects around or for gently approaching and separating from sensitive iron-based target objects during gripping and releasing processes. Low Coercive Force (LCF) magnets offer an alternative, as their magnetization can be tuned with short current pulses and maintained without continuous current. However, this approach demands fast and precise flux control to eliminate the issues mentioned above. This paper introduces a novel flux control method based on the Hill Climb Search (HCS) algorithm. Once the required flux is identified, the system rapidly adjusts the magnetization of LCF magnet by applying optimized pulse trains within a short time. Experimental evaluation confirms that the proposed method effectively establishes and sustains the target magnetization level without additional current input. This approach has significant potential to advance and expand the use of Low Coercivity EPM systems as an alternative to classical systems. Full article

Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (SALI) is characterized by dysregulated inflammation with limited therapeutic options. Although Anemoside B4 (AB4) exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, its clinical application is hindered by poor bioavailability. To address this limitation, we developed magnetically guided gelatin microrobots (MG-AB4) for targeted AB4 delivery. The MG-AB4 system consists of a Fe₃O₄-loaded gelatin shell for enabling precise magnetic navigation (velocity: 110 μm/s), an AB4 core for rapid drug release which is advantageous for acute inflammatory responses, and surface modifications to enhance cellular uptake. Compared with free AB4, MG-AB4 significantly suppressed key inflammatory cytokines (Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α); p < 0.01), inhibited NF-κB activation (p < 0.01), and improved cell viability in an inflammatory model (p < 0.05). This study demonstrates that magnetically guided AB4 delivery using rapidly releasing microrobots is a promising strategy for SALI treatment, wherein the synergy of targeted delivery and potent anti-inflammatory action may effectively mitigate disease progression. Full article

Background/Objectives: Thrombotic diseases, such as ischemic stroke, acute myocardial infarction, and venous thromboembolism, are leading causes of global morbidity and mortality. Traditional thrombolytic therapies like systemic tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) are limited by bleeding risks, poor targeting, and inconsistent efficacy. This review explores emerging non-pharmacological technologies aimed at overcoming these challenges through targeted, minimally invasive thrombolysis. Methods: A narrative synthesis of recent advancements was conducted, focusing on six innovative approaches: ultrasound-mediated thrombolysis (UMT), microrobots, electrothrombectomy, photothrombectomy, magnetic targeted thrombolysis, and nanotechnology. Preclinical and clinical studies were reviewed to assess mechanisms, efficacy, safety, and translational potential, prioritizing technologies with demonstrated success in animal or early human trials. Results: Technologies like microbubble-enhanced UMT, magnetically actuated microrobots, and fibrin-targeted nanoparticles showed promising results. UMT improved recanalization in ischemic stroke and pulmonary embolism, while electrothrombectomy demonstrated safe, effective clot extraction in human trials. However, challenges remain in scalability, biocompatibility, and clinical integration, with microrobots and photothrombectomy still in preclinical stages. Conclusions: Emerging thrombolysis technologies offer safer, more targeted alternatives to conventional treatments. Clinical adoption will depend on overcoming translational hurdles, including large-scale trials, miniaturization, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with a focus on hybrid approaches and real-time imaging integration. Full article