bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spirolones A–E, five spiroketals from a productive saline soil derived Penicillium raistrickii
Authors: Liu Desheng , Ma Liying , Rong Xianguo , Kang Huihui , Liu Weizhong
Published: November 2024

Background

In recent decades, spiroketals which features with two rings joined by a spiro atom, have stimulated a great deal of researches for their diverse significant biological activities. Fungi are proved to be key reservoirs of structurally unique chemical skeletons. Up to date, [6,6]-spiroketals from fungal strains are still sporadically reported. Guided by UV information based on HPLC-DAD system, five unreported azaphilone-based [6,6]-spiroketals (1-5), named spirolones A-E, along with one known analogue, pestafolide A (6), were isolated from a productive saline soil derived fungus Penicillium raistrickii.

Methods

Their planar structures were solved through a comprehensive set of spectroscopic techniques including UV, IR, HRESIMS and 1D/2D NMR. The absolute configurations were determined by X-ray single-crystal diffractions or the modified Mosher’s method. The misassignment of absolute configuration of pestafolide A was revised by X-ray crystallographic analysis in this study. All the isolated compounds were screened for antibacterial effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli based on the microplate approach and the cytotoxicity towards HepG2 and Hep3B cell lines based on MTT assay.

Results and discussion

The results suggested that compound 4 displayed some activity against P. aeruginosa and E. coli with MIC values of 35.00 μg/mL and 55.00 μg/mL, with MIC values of the positive control of streptomycin at 12.50 μg/mL and 8.00 μg/mL, respectively. Compound 5 exhibited inhibitory effect against HepG2 cell line with IC50 value of 3.40 μM, and 8.14 μM against Hep3B cell line with doxorubincin as positive control. Compounds 4 and 5 may be capable of contribution for the development of new antibiotics or antitumor agents.
Total burden of cerebral small vessel disease predict subjective cognitive decline in patients with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Qiu Wenchao , Hu Weili , Ge Yingchao , Liu Peiting , Zhao Minghui , Lu Haifeng , Tao Jian , Xue Shouru
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study investigates the correlation between the total burden of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease (CSVD) and Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 422 patients with PD. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was conducted to identify CSVD markers. SCD was assessed using the Cognitive Complaints Inventory (CCI).

Results

Logistic regression analyses revealed that the total burden of CSVD and specific imaging markers, including Deep White Matter Hyperintensities (DWMH), Periventricular Hyperintensities (PVH), and Enlarged Perivascular Spaces (EPVS), were significant predictors of SCD. The total burden of CSVD demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy for SCD in PD patients.

Discussion

The findings suggest that the total burden of CSVD, as measured by MRI, could serve as a potential biomarker for early identification of cognitive decline in PD, highlighting the importance of considering vascular factors in the early detection of cognitive changes in PD.
LAMTOR1 regulates dendritic lysosomal positioning in hippocampal neurons through TRPML1 inhibition
Authors: Sun Jiandong , Lin Weiju , Hao Xiaoning , Baudry Michel , Bi Xiaoning
Published: November 2024

Intracellular lysosomal trafficking and positioning are fundamental cellular processes critical for proper neuronal function. Among the diverse array of proteins involved in regulating lysosomal positioning, the Transient Receptor Potential Mucolipin 1 (TRPML1) and the Ragulator complex have emerged as central players. TRPML1, a lysosomal cation channel, has been implicated in lysosomal biogenesis, endosomal/lysosomal trafficking including in neuronal dendrites, and autophagy. LAMTOR1, a subunit of the Ragulator complex, also participates in the regulation of lysosomal trafficking. Here we report that LAMTOR1 regulates lysosomal positioning in dendrites of hippocampal neurons by interacting with TRPML1. LAMTOR1 knockdown (KD) increased lysosomal accumulation in proximal dendrites of cultured hippocampal neurons, an effect reversed by TRPML1 KD or inhibition. On the other hand, TRPML1 activation with ML-SA1 or prevention of TRPML1 interaction with LAMTOR1 using a TAT-decoy peptide induced dendritic lysosomal accumulation. LAMTOR1 KD-induced proximal dendritic lysosomal accumulation was blocked by the dynein inhibitor, ciliobrevin D, suggesting the involvement of a dynein-mediated transport. These results indicate that LAMTOR1-mediated inhibition of TRPML1 is critical for normal dendritic lysosomal distribution and that release of this inhibition or direct activation of TRPML1 results in abnormal dendritic lysosomal accumulation. The roles of LAMTOR1-TRPML1 interactions in lysosomal trafficking and positioning could have broad implications for understanding cognitive disorders associated with lysosomal pathology and calcium dysregulation.
Investigating the causal effect of various metabolites on postherpetic neuralgia: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhu Jianyu , Chen Jiahao , Zuo Yuefen , Song Kun , Liao Huilian , Wu Xianping
Published: November 2024

Background

Common side effect of Herpes Zoster, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), causes persistent pain that seriously affects quality of life. Lack of dependable biomarkers makes the clinical diagnosis and treatment of PHN difficult, so complicating the assessment of therapeutic efficacy. Blood metabolites are becoming more and more well known as significant disease markers. With an aim to find possible biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment, this work investigates the causal link between blood metabolites and PHN using Mendelian randomization.

Methods

This work evaluated causal relationships between PHN and 1,091 plasma metabolites using Mendelian randomization (MR). Complementing MR-Egger and weighted median approaches, the main causality analysis was done using inverse variance weighted (IVW) and Wald ratio (WR) approaches. Robustness was checked using sensitivity analyses including CAUSE, Cochran’s Q tests, leave-one-out analysis, MR-PRESSO, and MR-Egger intercept analysis. Reverse MR analysis and linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) was used to assess significant correlations as well. Two-step MR analysis was also used to look at the mediating function of positively correlated metabolites in the causal pathway.

Results

The results of this study indicated a significant association between N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG) and PHN, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.83 (95% CI: 0.76–0.91, p = 2.68E-05). Moreover, five potential associated metabolites were identified: Gamma-glutamylthreonine (OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.16–2.20, p = 0.004), 3-hydroxyphenylacetoylglutamine (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.00–2.05, p = 0.048), Caprate (10:0) (OR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.11–3.12, p = 0.018), X-12013 (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.03–2.60, p = 0.035), and X-17328 (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.04–2.18, p = 0.032). Additionally, NAAG likely acts as a complete mediator between FOLH1(CGPII) and postherpetic neuralgia in the causal pathway.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicated a significant association between N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG) and PHN, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.83 (95% CI: 0.76–0.91, p = 2.68E-05). Furthermore five possible related metabolites were found: Glutamylthreonine gamma-wise (OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.16–2.20, p = 0.004), 3-hydroxyphenylacetoylglutamine (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.00–2.05, p = 0.048), Caprate (10:0) (OR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.11–3.12, p = 0.018), X-12013 (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.03–2.60, p = 0.035), and X-17328 (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.04–2.18, p = 0.032). Furthermore, in the causal pathway NAAG most certainly serves as a complete mediator between FOLH1(CGPII) and postherpetic neuralgia.
Mendelian randomization analyses support causal relationships between systemic lupus erythematosus and brain imaging-derived phenotypes
Authors: Ma Yan , Li Rui , Li Qianqian , Lin Wanyi , Lu Liangjing
Published: November 2024

Background

Neuropsychiatric disorders in systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) are often accompanied by alterations in brain structure and function. Subtle changes in brain structure also can be observed in non-NPSLE patients. MRI can be used as a non-invasive tool to determine nervous system involvement in SLE. However, the causal relationship between SLE and brain MRI remains unclear.

Methods

We designed two-sample MR analyses to identify brain IDPs associated with SLE. The GWAS summary data of 3,935 IDPs from the UK Biobank were used as outcomes in MR analyses.

Results

There were 25 statistically significant causal relationships between SLE and brain IDPs, in which the several cortical area, anterior corona radiata, and posterior limb of internal capsule were included. These results may suggest the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with SLE.

Conclusion

The findings revealed strong genetic evidence for causal links between SLE and neuroimaging phenotypes. Our results provide a promising method for the daily assessment and monitoring of SLE patients.
Effectiveness of abdominal electroacupuncture therapy for poststroke constipation: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Xiuzhen , Liu Linxi , Diao Yingxiu , Ma Chunling
Published: November 2024

Background

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been employed to address the symptoms of constipation in individuals who have experienced a stroke. However, supporting evidence for its efficacy is lacking. This meta-analysis aims to investigate whether EA was effective in treating poststroke constipation.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of eight databases, including four English-language databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) and four Chinese-language databases (Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP, and Wanfang), for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from inception through January 31, 2023. To assess treatment effectiveness, we calculated the risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 9 RCTs involving 601 participants were included. No heterogeneity was found across the included RCTs. The results of this meta-analysis indicated significant improvements in the total effective rate (RR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.27, 1.52), cure rates (RR 1.87, 95% CI 1.38, 2.54), constipation scoring system (MD = −2.51, 95% CI −3.05, −1.97), and quality of life (MD = −10.69, 95% CI −14.2, −7.17) in the EA group compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Current evidence indicates that EA may be recommended for patients experiencing poststroke constipation. The lack of thorough investigations has undermined the quality of the major findings.
Assessment of knowledge and awareness of stroke among Arabic speaking adults: unveiling the current landscape in seven countries through the first international representative study
Authors: Malaeb Diana , Mansour Sara , Barakat Muna , Cherri Sarah , Kharaba Zelal J. , Jirjees Feras , Al Zayer Reem , Eltayib Eyman M. , Khidhair Zeinab , AlObaidi Hala , El Khatib Sami , Alex Ruth , Menon Vineetha , Hosseini Basile , Noureldine Jinane , Alfoteih Yassen , Hallit Souheil , Hosseini Hassan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

While several studies have examined stroke public knowledge and awareness in individual countries within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, none have provided a comprehensive cross-country assessment.

Purpose

To assess public stroke knowledge and awareness among Arabic-speaking adults in seven MENA countries and identify associated factors.

Materials and methods

An online cross-sectional survey was self-administered by the public population in Iraq, Lebanon, Sudan, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, Syria, and Saudi Arabia (April 2021–2023). Associations of stroke risk factors, early symptoms, and consequences with socio-demographics and medical history were analyzed using logistic regression models.

Results

Of 4,090 participants (58.3% females), 42.9% identified four out of five correct answers related to general stroke knowledge. Only 25.2% identified all stroke risk factors, 24.7% recognized all symptoms, and 37.5% knew all possible consequences. Results show consistent pattern of high identification for at least one risk factor and consequences across all countries (96.3 to 99.8% and 86.2 to 100%, respectively), with varying levels of early symptom identification (56.8 to 97.9%). Females were more likely to identify a stroke risk factor, symptom, and consequence compared to males (OR = 2.525, 2.474, and 2.302, respectively, p < 0.001). Employed, urban residents, and those with higher education demonstrated better stroke awareness.

Conclusion

The sample showed variable levels of stroke knowledge among the public, underscoring the pressing need for targeted community initiatives, media campaigns, and educational interventions. These efforts are paramount for improving awareness, early detection, and timely response, especially in countries with lower levels of community stroke awareness.
Predictive value of low serum interleukin-33 levels in acute ischemic stroke outcomes
Authors: Liu Wei , Luo Dongliang , Liu Xingyu , Zhang Yuqing , Wang Zhong
Published: November 2024

Background

Human interleukin-33 (IL-33), a member of the IL-1 family, has been identified as a therapeutic target due to its role as a proinflammatory mediator in various diseases. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic value of serum IL-33 levels in patients admitted with their first-ever acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

This single-center, prospective, observational study included 216 patients with acute ischemic stroke. Serum IL-33 levels were measured at hospital admission to assess their predictive value for functional outcomes and mortality within 3 months. IL-33 levels were dichotomized at the median into two groups: the reduced group (IL-33 ≤ median) and the normal group (IL-33 > median).

Results

The median age of the 216 patients was 66 years (interquartile range [IQR], 56–75), with 132 (61.6%) being women. IL-33 serum levels were inversely correlated with stroke severity, as measured by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and lesion size. Patients in the reduced IL-33 group had a higher rate of unfavorable outcomes (55.6% vs. 18.5%; absolute difference, 29.2% [95% confidence interval (CI), 24.5% to 34.4%]; odds ratio (OR), 3.19 [95% CI, 1.72 to 5.91]) and mortality (24.1% vs. 3.7%; absolute difference, 15.8% [95% CI, 13.1% to 18.3%]; OR, 4.12 [95% CI, 1.38 to 12.31]) compared to the normal group. Furthermore, IL-33 levels enhanced the prognostic accuracy of the NIHSS for predicting functional outcomes (combined area under the curve [AUC], 0.84; 95% CI, 0.79–0.84; P < 0.001) and mortality (combined AUC, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.83–0.94; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that lower IL-33 levels are associated with increased stroke severity and poorer prognosis. These findings suggest that IL-33 may serve as a valuable biomarker for predicting poor outcomes following acute ischemic stroke.
First-time seizure revealing late-onset Fahr’s disease: a case report and brief literature review
Authors: Lamessa Adugna , Tesfaye Kenna , Woyimo Tamirat Godebo , Gebremichael Ermias Habte
Published: November 2024

Fahr’s disease (FD), otherwise known as primary familial brain calcification, is a rare neurodegenerative condition that involves intracerebral calcification at the level of the basal ganglia and other brain regions. It is an inherited neurologic disorder, although its molecular genetics have not been thoroughly defined. Patients usually present with a wide range of symptoms, predominantly movement disorders and cognitive changes. However, seizures are a rare initial presenting features of late-onset FD in adults. Herein, we present the case of a 60-year-old man with no known chronic illnesses who was admitted to a tertiary hospital after experiencing first-time generalized tonic-clonic seizures and loss of consciousness for two days. Basic laboratory results were within normal limits, and a non-contrast brain computed tomography (CT) scan showed intracerebral calcification. The patient was diagnosed with epilepsy secondary to FD based on its modified diagnostic criteria and responded well to antiepileptic treatment. The case highlights a rare association and emphasizes the importance of considering this diagnosis in patients experiencing an inaugural seizure; appropriate tests should be performed to confirm or rule out other relevant and secondary causes, and the treatment should be modified accordingly.
Comparative analysis of the nutritional composition, digestibility, metabolomics profiles and growth influence of cow, goat and sheep milk powder diets in rat models
Authors: Yang Chun , Pan Jiancun , Pang Shaojie , Hu Shuang , Liu Miao , Zhang Xinyan , Song Liping , Ren Xiangnan , Wang Zhongli
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The diversity of dairy products and the increasing consumption levels have led to a growing interest in goat and sheep milk, which are rich in essential nutrients and functional components. The study aims to explore the nutritional composition, growth performance, digestibility, and serum metabolic differences of milk powders from cow, goat, and sheep using LC–MS/MS-based metabolomics in rat models.

Methods

Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with whole cow, goat, and sheep milk powder samples , and their feces and urine were analyzed for fat and protein content. LC/MS analysis was conducted using a Dionex UltiMate 3000 UHPLC system coupled with a Thermo Q EXACTIVE mass spectrometer, with data processed using Wekemo Bioincloud for quality control, normalization, comparisons with the KEGG database, statistical analyses, and selection of differential metabolites.

Results

The sheep milk powder showed highest protein and fat content level, while cow and goat milk powders separately demonstrated higher lactose and carbohydrate levels. Each milk powder had a unique mineral profile, with sheep milk powder containing the highest calcium content. All groups exhibited consistent growth in body weight and high rates of protein and fat digestibility. Metabolomics analysis revealed distinct metabolic profiles, with goat milk powder linked to steroid hormone biosynthesis and sheep milk powder associated with hormone regulation and bile acid pathways.

Conclusion

This study offers valuable insights into the metabolic implications of different milk powder sources, informing dietary choices and facilitating the development of targeted public health strategies to optimize nutritional intake and promote overall well-being.
The dietary inflammatory index and asthma prevalence: a cross-sectional analysis from NHANES
Authors: Lu Chuansen , Zhu Yike
Published: November 2024

Background

Inflammation is a key factor in the development of asthma, and diet significantly influences inflammatory responses. This study examines the relationship between the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and asthma prevalence.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2018. Demographic details, anthropometric measurements, dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and asthma status were recorded for all participants. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to assess the relationship between DII and asthma prevalence. Additionally, restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was employed to explore the nonlinearity and dose–response relationship between DII and asthma risk. Subgroup analyses were stratified by gender, age, race, body mass index (BMI), poverty income ratio (PIR), education, smoking status, alcohol use, and family medical history to dissect the association between DII and asthma across diverse populations.

Results

The analysis included 37,283 adults from NHANES. After adjusting for potential confounders in the multivariable logistic regression model, a significant positive association was identified between DII and asthma (OR, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.02–1.09, per 1 SD increase). The RCS analysis revealed a nonlinear association (p for nonlinearity = 0.0026), with an inflection point at 1.366, beyond which an increase in DII was significantly associated with asthma risk. Furthermore, the stratified analyses indicated a positive association between DII and asthma in the majority of subgroups.

Conclusion

The findings underscore a significant and nonlinear association between DII and asthma. To enhance asthma prevention and management, greater emphasis should be placed on modulating dietary-induced inflammation.
One-piece resection for the treatment of ventral intradural extramedullary spinal meningioma: a retrospective study
Authors: Cao Guangqing , Li Xinao , Wang Dachuan , Zhao Yachao
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of one-piece resection for the treatment of ventral intradural extramedullary spinal meningiomas (VIESMs).

Methods

Between January 2017 and December 2023, all patients who underwent one-piece resection for VIESMs were retrospectively reviewed with their demographic, intraoperative and postoperative data being recorded. In addition, postoperative neurological status based on the modified McCormick functional schema (mMFS), along with radiological manifestations on the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were assessed and compared with that before the operation.

Results

A total of 27 cases (7 men and 20 women) with an average age of 63.37 ± 10.48 years old were included in the present study with the operation time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, and follow-up periods being 292.41 ± 42.64 min, 286.85 ± 47.03 ml, 10.37 ± 1.69 days, and 16.81 ± 10.79 months, respectively. Postoperatively, one case experienced cerebrospinal fluid leakage without neurological deterioration. At the final follow-up, the mMFS scores were unchanged in seven (25.93%) cases while they improved in the remaining 20 (74.07%) cases. Finally, the MRI examinations showed that one-piece resection was successfully performed for each VIESM without a recurrence.

Conclusion

One-piece resection was a feasible, safe and effective procedure for treating VIESMs. Partial removal of the ipsilateral pedicle, facet joint, and even posterior vertebral wall to establish a wide surgical corridor and vision, resection of the dentate ligaments to minimize spinal cord traction, and meticulous coagulation of the dural attachment to reduce recurrence were the key technical points.
Effects of two-stage preterm formulas on growth, nutritional biomarkers, and neurodevelopment in preterm infants
Authors: Kwinta Przemko , Lazarova Svilena , Demová Klaudia , Chen Yipu , Hartweg Mickaël , Krattinger Laura-Florina , Fumero Cecilia , Buczyńska Aleksandra , Durlak Wojciech , Uhrikova Zuzana , Kozar Marek , Samuel Tinu Mary , Zibolen Mirko
Published: November 2024

Background

Formula-fed preterm infants require nutrient-enriched formulas with optimized protein levels to support growth and neurodevelopment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and effectiveness of a new liquid two-staged formula system designed to provide tailored nutrition during hospital stay and after discharge.

Methods

Male and female very-low-birth-weight preterm infants (birth weight ≤1,500 g; gestational age ≤32 weeks) were recruited from three neonatal units in Poland and Slovakia in a prospective, open-label, interventional study. Stage 1 formula providing 3.6 g intact protein/100 kcal was consumed from enrollment until reaching 1,800 g, followed by a post-discharge (PD) Stage 2 formula with 2.8 g/100 kcal protein, which was consumed for 30 days. Weight gain velocity (WGV in g/kg/day) between the first day of achieving full enteral feeding (FEF D1 rate of 150 ml/kg/day and cessation of parenteral feeding) and day reaching 1,800 g was compared to the minimally required WGV (15 g/kg/day) for non-inferiority (primary endpoint), and to the Fenton median growth rate for superiority (17.3 g/kg/day), adjusting for sex, gestational age, site, visit, and WGV. Changes in z-scores, feeding tolerance, nutritional biomarker status, and safety were also assessed from FEF D1 to 30 days PD. In an observational follow-up at 2 years of age, neurodevelopment was evaluated using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-III).

Results

Adjusted weight gain velocity (95% CI) between the first day of full enteral feeding and day reaching 1,800 g in per protocol (PP, N = 18) was 23.0 (20.1–25.9) g/kg/day; lower limit of the 95% CIs exceeded the non-inferiority margin (15 g/kg/day, p < 0.001) and the superiority margin (17.3 g/kg/day, p < 0.001). Mean stool frequency ranged from 2.5 to 3.3 stools per day. The two-stage formula supported adequate growth patterns throughout the study and nutritional biomarkers of protein and mineral status were within normal ranges. At 24 months corrected age, the mean ± SD of the BSID cognitive scale was 97.3 ± 13.9 in PP, with all infants achieving a score >70. None of the adverse events reported were related to the study formulas.

Conclusion

The two-stage preterm formulas supported postnatal weight gain, adequate growth, cognitive development within normal ranges, and a safe profile of protein and bone biomarkers.

Clinical Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov registration, NCT03728764, NCT04962035.
Adverse event profile of lorazepam: a real-world pharmacovigilance study using the FDA adverse event reporting system database
Authors: Su Zhengkang , Huang Zhengwei , Chen Xiaoyu , Li Xi
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Anxiety diagnoses have surged recently during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Lorazepam is widely recognized for its efficacy in treatment of anxiety, as well as insomnia, etc. However, the long-term safety profile of lorazepam in extensive patient populations has not been thoroughly established.

Methods

This study aims to evaluate the potential lorazepam-associated adverse events (AEs) using data mining of the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) of the United States, seeking to provide a guidance for the future therapeutic practices.

Results

Our study revealed drug abuse, suicide attempt, sopor, delirium, and psychotic disorder were among the most prevalent AEs linked to lorazepam. In addition to common AEs, we also found that patients using lorazepam may have the risk of abnormal fat metabolism, cardiac impairment, and immunosuppression-related disorders.

Discussion

In general, our research has unveiled novel AE signals and expanded our understanding of the safety profile of lorazepam in clinical practices, providing guidance for its rational use.
Rare cancer with primary pleural epithelioid hemangioendothelioma diagnosed by thoracoscopic biopsy achieving disease control after 16 months: case report and literature review
Authors: Pateras Ioannis S. , Kostopanagiotou Konstantinos , Samaras Menelaos G. , Koumarianou Anna , Koutrouli Mina , Korodimos Nikolaos , Kampoli Katerina , Apollonatou Vasiliki , Manali Effrosyni , Loukides Stylianos , Tomos Periklis , Tsiodras Sotirios , Panayiotides Ioannis G.
Published: November 2024

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare malignant vascular tumor whose pleural EHE (pEHE) type is even more uncommon, with significant heterogeneity in the clinical behavior as well as challenging diagnosis and treatment decisions. Herein, we present a 74-year-old woman admitted to the hospital with dyspnea, pleural effusion, and refractory euvolemic hyponatremia. Chest computed tomography revealed a large right-side pleural effusion with irregular thickening of the parietal pleura and localized nodularity. Histologic evaluation of the thoracoscopic pleural biopsy tissue was used to confirm the diagnosis of pEHE. Assessment of the volume status suggested that the hyponatremia was attributable to a paraneoplastic endocrine syndrome. Administration of the multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor pazopanib helped achieve disease control, with the patient remaining free of symptoms after 16 months of follow-up. This case report adds to the knowledge base of this exceptionally rare condition, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach.
Mirogabalin as a novel calcium channel α2δ ligand for the treatment of neuropathic pain: a review of clinical update
Authors: Yang Fei , Wang Yan , Zhang Mingjie , Yu Shengyuan
Published: November 2024

Neuropathic pain (NP) is often caused by diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy, or spinal cord lesions and is associated with significant economic burden and poor quality of life. Sophisticated etiology and pathology recognized different pharmacologic interventions, and hitherto, the reported analgesic efficacy and safety of guideline-recommended drugs are not satisfactory. Overall, this article reviews the mechanism of α2δ ligand, the clinical pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness of mirogabalin for the treatment of NP, offering clinical perspectives into potential benefits of NP-related syndrome or comorbidities. Mirogabalin, a novel voltage-gated Ca2+ channel (VGCC) α2δ ligand with selective binding affinities to α2δ-1 than α2δ-2 subunit, exhibited a wider safety margin and a relatively lower incidence of adverse events compared with other gabapentinoids. Randomized-controlled trials and open-label studies have demonstrated the efficacy and long-term safety of mirogabalin in Asian patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP), postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), and central NP. Analgesic effects of mirogabalin for the single or add-on treatment on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and orthopedic disease/postoperation-related NP were also evidenced. To date, mirogabalin is approved for the general indication of NP in Japan, PNP in South Korea, and DPNP in the Chinese Mainland and DPNP, PHN in Taiwan (China). In summary, mirogabalin emerges as a promising option for NP; further research is warranted to refine wider treatment strategies, flexible dosing in real-world setting.
Slow-release nitrogen fertilizer application regulated rhizosphere microbial diversity to increase maize yield
Authors: Meng Tiantian , Shi Jingjing , Zhang Xiangqian , Zhao Xiaoqing , Zhang Dejian , Chen Liyu , Lu Zhanyuan , Cheng Yuchen , Hao Yonghe , Zhao Xiaoyu , Wang Yu
Published: November 2024

The one-time application of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer can not only reduce the labor input, but also reduce the mechanical input cost, and has the characteristics of slow release and reduce volatilization loss. This research is grounded in a localization trial initiated in 2018, which underwent comprehensive analysis utilizing high-throughput sequencing technology to elucidate the mutual feeding mechanism of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer application rate on microbial community structure, network complexity, and maize yield in different root niches (bulk soil, rhizosphere, and endosphere). Soil characteristics, microbial community composition, and collinear network of different ecological niches under slow-release nitrogen fertilizer were analyzed, and the key core species affecting the stability of the microbial network and the factors driving yield were identified. The results showed that nitrogen application increased the diversity of bacteria, and nitrogen application significantly increased the diversity of rhizosphere bacteria and fungi due to rhizosphere effects. Slow-release nitrogen fertilizer increased the complexity of the bacterial network and decreased the complexity of the fungal network, particularly, the network complexity of bacteria and fungi in the rhizosphere was higher than that in the bulk soil and the rhizosphere. The application of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer increased the abundance of Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, Gemmatimonadota, Actinobacteria, Ascomycota, Basidiomycota and other dominant bacteria. Coordinate soil physical and chemical properties, increase soil enzyme activity and soil nutrients, improve soil microenvironment, regulate microbial community composition, and promote above-ground yield increase, in which nitrogen application, urease, nitrate reductase and nitrate nitrogen are the main driving factors for yield increase. These findings provide a new idea for the mutual feeding mechanism of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer on microbial diversity and yield in different ecological niches. To selection of suitable nitrogen application rate and regional ecological security in the agro-pastoral ecotone.It offers a theoretical framework for establishing optimal nitrogen application rates and ensuring food security in agro-pastoral ecotones.
Research for association and correlation between stress at workplace and individual mental health
Authors: Lee Mi-Jeong , Lee Wanhyung
Published: November 2024

Background

Occupational stress negatively affects mental health and productivity. Managing worker mental health has been equated to assessing workplace stressors, although there are challenges in screening and managing the mental health of vulnerable workers. This study aimed to determine the correlation between workplace stress characteristics and two depression assessment questionnaires to guide workplaces on assessing job stress more effectively.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey study was conducted with 812 workers from manufacturing sector in Korea. Depression was measured using the CES-D and PHQ-9 questionnaires, and the KOSS-SF was used to assess job stress.

Results

The results showed that 26.2% of participants had high job stress levels, with job control and demands being the highest subfactors. The CES-D and PHQ-9 were positively correlated with job stress factors, with the PHQ-9 showing stronger correlations than the CES-D.

Conclusion

The CES-D and PHQ-9 were associated with workplace stress; however, the CES-D was not associated with job control, whereas the PHQ-9 was not associated with job demands or relationship conflicts. Additionally, the PHQ-9 showed a higher correlation with workplace stress than the CES-D. The correlation between depression screening tests differed according to workplace stress characteristics, but the PHQ-9 was helpful in screening workers for depression.
Determinants of the low use of Thailand’s Universal Coverage Scheme: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Paek Seung Chun , Zhang Ning Jackie
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Thailand’s Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) has increased overall healthcare use by offering free healthcare for about 76% of the entire population since it was introduced in 2002. However, a considerable number of beneficiaries have continued to depend on private healthcare, and the low use of the UCS has been cited as a challenge to accomplishing the policy’s goal of universal access to healthcare. Thus, this study divided healthcare use into three patterns (self-medication, private providers, and UCS) and investigated the socio-demographic characteristics of non-users of the UCS and their reasons for non-use.

Methods

A cross-sectional quantitative analysis was performed using data from the 2019 Health and Welfare Survey. UCS beneficiaries aged 15 years or older who had used healthcare during the past month were included in the sample. Descriptive analysis and multinomial logistic regression were performed to analyze associations between patterns of healthcare use and socio-demographic factors chosen based on Aday and Andersen’s access to medical care model.

Results

Of the study sample (n = 5,636), about 46.1% used healthcare services outside the UCS delivery system, of whom 33.8 and 12.3% used self-medication and private healthcare providers, respectively. Non-users generally had a higher socio-demographic status than UCS users. Specifically, they were young, had a high income, were employed, lived in urban areas, or did not have a chronic disease. The most common reason for non-use of the UCS was accessibility barriers (59.6%; e.g., long queues in public providers), followed by availability (25.4%; e.g., limited operating hours of public providers) and quality barriers (14%; e.g., unsureness of the quality of medicine offered by public providers). Moreover, self-medication users tended to be concerned about availability barriers, while private-provider users tended to be concerned about quality barriers for using the UCS.

Conclusion

Under the UCS policy, there is a gap between the demands for healthcare and the resources assigned to increase the capability of public healthcare providers. That is, the UCS has increased financial accessibility for the use of the UCS (i.e., free healthcare from public providers). However, it probably has not yet increased healthcare resources and infrastructure facilitating the use of the UCS. This may have prevented the UCS from meeting the demands of its intended beneficiaries, especially those in high socio-economic groups, and ultimately forced them to use private healthcare.
Depression among keratoconus patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Moshfeghinia Reza , Arman Ali , Sobhi Navid , Mahmoudinezhad Golnoush , Molavi Vardanjani Hossein
Published: November 2024

Background

Keratoconus (KC) is a chronic corneal disease that typically presents in early adulthood, and may potentially result in poor mental health in affected individuals. The evidence regarding the association of depression with KC is controversial. Hence, we investigated the association between depression and KC via a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Five electronic medical databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete) were systematically queried for English-language records from their inception to January 8, 2024. We include observational studies that measured the risk of depression or compared depression scores in KC patients in comparison to healthy ones. The Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was utilized to assess bias risk in the included studies. Random-effect modeling was applied for meta-analysis (STATA-17).

Results

Out of the 159 documents retrieved, seven articles were deemed relevant after screening. An analysis involving 83 KC patients and 3,186 controls indicated that KC participants had significantly higher depression scores [SMD: 0.71 [0.31, 1.11]; p < 0.01, I2: 52.7%]. However, a meta-analysis of four studies comparing depression rates in KC patients (n = 23,838) to control groups (n = 73,482) found no increased risk of depression among KC patients compared to controls [OR: 1.13 [0.66, 1.94]; p = 0.65, I2: 95.35%].

Conclusion

While KC patients exhibit significantly higher depression scores compared to controls, a meta-analysis indicates no increased overall risk of depression among KC patients. These findings highlight the complexity of the relationship between keratoconus and mental health, warranting further investigation.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier, CRD42024502247, available at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024502247.
The evaluation of individuals under the age of 18 working at Şahinbey automotive industrial site in Gaziantep province
Authors: Cüce Coşkun , Aydın Neriman
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Child labor is an important issue of public health in both developed and developing countries. This is a cross-sectional-descriptive study.

Methods

418 individuals under the age of 18 were enrolled in the study. Data were collected by using a questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22 software package. Significance was p < 0.05.

Results

All the participants were male with a mean age of 14.90 ± 1.94 years. 34.9% did not continue education. Among them, prevalence of underweight, shortness, overweight and obesity were 3.3, 9.9, 17.7 and 6.2%, respectively. 16.5% of the families had immigrated. The mean number of family members was 5.87 ± 1.62. Out of the participants, 29.4% were smokers, 8.4% had alcohol abuse and 3.8% had substance abuse. 55.0% of the children stated to have started working for acquiring a profession, whereas 35.4% were for financial reasons. The children were working mostly at automobile repair shops (38.8%). The average working time was 11.46 ± 0.83 h per day. 5.7% of the children were attending apprenticeship school. 52.6% said they had at least one occupational injury event.

Discussion

It was found that age, reason for working, the degree of proximity to the employer, and having a master trainer’s certificate of the employer affected the children’s attendance at Apprenticeship Training Center. Occurrence of having occupational injury events was found to be associated with sleep duration, experiencing abuse, smoking and alcohol addiction. Child labor still remains unsolved despite the measures taken and the long struggle. It will be useful to support them in healthy life behaviors such as healthy sleep, healthy nutrition, no smoking and alcohol habits. More radical solutions should be sought to eliminate child labor.
Distinct clinico-genomic factors drive outcomes in patients with myelofibrosis and disease-related anemia
Authors: Ball Somedeb , Al Ali Najla H. , Jain Akriti G. , Aguirre Luis E. , Yun Seongseok , Chan Onyee , Xie Zhuoer , Sallman David A. , Lancet Jeffrey , Padron Eric , Komrokji Rami S. , Kuykendall Andrew T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Disease related anemia in myelofibrosis (MF) is common and prognostically detrimental. Anemia in MF poses a therapeutic challenge as it contributes to poor quality of life and often interferes with JAK inhibitor therapy. Still, the causes for anemia in MF are varied raising the question as to whether all patients with MF-related anemia should be viewed through the same prognostic lens.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we analyzed clinical and genomic data of patients with MF-related anemia using an institutional MF database. Anemia was defined as the requirement of red blood cell transfusions or a hemoglobin level of <10 g/dL at presentation. Multivariable analysis performed using Cox regression formed the basis of a proposed prognostic scoring system for patients with anemic MF.

Results

Among 739 patients with MF, 365 (49.5%) were anemic at presentation. Anemic patients were older, had lower platelet count, lower serum albumin, and higher ferritin level than non-anemic patients. The presence of a JAK2 mutation was less common, whereas mutations in U2AF1 and EZH2 were enriched in the anemic cohort. Blast phase transformation was more common in anemic patients. After a median follow up of 34.5 months, median overall survival (OS) was significantly shorter in anemic vs. non-anemic MF (30.2 vs. 73.9 months; p<0.01). Leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, low serum albumin, and the presence of a mutation involving SRSF2 or TP53 were independent predictors of inferior OS in anemic MF on multivariable analysis. A proposed prognostic model including these factors stratified anemic MF cohort into low, intermediate, and high-risk categories, with median OS of 69, 37.7, and 11.6 months, respectively (p <0.01).

Conclusions

Our study highlights the heterogeneity of patients with MF and anemia and identifies key prognostic correlates in this subgroup. Our proposed model may help guide therapeutic decision-making in this high-risk cohort.
Doping in elite cycling: a qualitative study of the underlying situations of vulnerability
Authors: Filleul Valentine , d'Arripe-Longueville Fabienne , Pavot David , Bimes Hugo , Maillot Jacky , Meinadier Eric , Hauw Denis , Corrion Karine
Published: November 2024

Doping is considered a critical deviant behavior in competitive sports, and particularly in cycling, even though the phenomenon remains limited in sports in general. Previous qualitative studies have contributed to identify situations of vulnerability to doping in athletes. However, much of the research tends to focus on singular dimensions of vulnerability, such as physical or psychological aspects. The present study aimed to extend existing knowledge by concurrently exploring and attempting to categorize different types of situations of vulnerability that predispose elite cyclists to engage in doping. Ten high-level French-speaking doped cyclists were recruited (Mage = 49; SD = 14.63, two women). Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Both deductive and inductive thematic analyses were performed. Our results highlighted four types of vulnerability situations: (a) psychological (e.g., negative affects, maladaptive motivation, depression), (b) physical (e.g., exhaustion, impairments, injuries), (c) relational (e.g., organized doping, control, psychological or sexual harassment, social approval of doping), and (d) contextual (e.g., cycling culture, weather conditions, competitive stakes). By providing a clearer categorization of the situations of vulnerability that converge toward doping in sport, this comprehensive study allows for a holistic understanding of the various vulnerabilities. It paves the way for future research on related vulnerabilities and dispositional factors. Practically, it should also improve doping screening and prevention, and provide more favorable conditions for athletes.
Does disaster resettlement reshape household livelihood adaptive capacity in rural China?
Authors: Zhao Tiejun , Wu Xinyu , Cheng Yuan , Liu Wei
Published: November 2024

To bolster ecological conservation efforts and foster human well-being, the Chinese government has implemented the disaster resettlement program. Rural households encounter various environmental and social challenges regarding disaster resettlement. One of the priorities of disaster resettlement in China is to implement reforms to mitigate disaster losses and improve the livelihoods of households. The research on the livelihood adaptive capacity of households and their research framework provides a new perspective for the livelihood survey of the resettlement population. This article assesses Household Livelihood Adaptive Capacity (HLAC) and further explores how it is impacted by disaster resettlement. Taking Ankang Prefecture in Southern Shaanxi Province as a case, this study investigates the endogeneity and selection bias of resettlement. It employs the Propensity Score Matching method to empirically test the effect of disaster resettlement on household awareness, action, and ability to measure HLAC. The results show that: (1) disaster resettlement significantly reduces HLAC, and (2) poverty alleviation relocation, centralized resettlement, and short-distance relocation have a significant negative impact on HLAC. The Chinese government has tried to use disaster resettlement to address ecological protection and social development problems, and it plays a crucial role in China’s development programs. We provide evidence that disaster resettlement leads to a decrease, rather than an increase, in HLAC. Therefore, we suggest that more follow-up assistance policies should be developed to enhance HLAC.