bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding pre-service teachers' intention to adopt and use artificial intelligence in Nigerian inclusive classrooms
Authors: Adigun Olufemi Timothy , Tijani Faisat Adeniran , Haihambo Cynthy K. , Enock Simasiku Limbo
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study applied the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to provide an understanding of the behavioral intentions of pre-service teachers in the adoption and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for educational engagement in the inclusive classroom.

Methods

The cross-sectional study collected data through a validated questionnaire from 411 pre-service teachers were analyzed with descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and simple percentage calculation, as well as inferential statistics which involved correlational analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM).

Results

The study established that effort expectancy had a positive and direct significant contribution to the perceived behavioral intention of pre-service teachers to adopt and use AI for inclusive education teaching. Technological self-efficacy had no direct contributory effect on these teachers' behavioral intention to adopt and use AI for inclusive education teaching. Technological self-efficacy did, however, have a significant positive and indirect contribution to the effect of performance expectancy and social influence on the pre-service teachers' behavioral intention to adopt and use AI for inclusive education teaching, based on their technological self-efficacy.

Discussion

The implication of findings of this study points to the exigency of a need to strengthen institutional policies and teacher preparation curricula in a manner that would advance the infusion of the use of artificial intelligence for teaching of learners with special needs.
Association between Helicobacter pylori infection, serum thyroid-stimulating hormone, and thyroxine in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2000
Authors: Lu Ting , Lu Shunshun , Lin Jieqiong , Shao Xiaona , Chen Dahua , Shen Jianwei
Published: February 2025

Background

Helicobacter pylori has been increasingly implicated in extra-gastric diseases. Current evidence regarding the association between serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and H. pylori infection remains inconclusive. Consequently, this study aimed to explore the correlation between TSH and T4 levels and H. pylori infection in a US-based population sample.

Methods

Data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), comprising 971 participants aged 30–85 years from 1999 to 2000, were analyzed. Binary logistic regression was employed to analyze the correlation between H. pylori and TSH and T4 levels. The impact of TSH and T4 on H. pylori infection was further assessed using restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis. In addition, subgroup analyses stratified by sex and age were conducted.

Results

Subjects with H. pylori seropositivity demonstrated lower serum TSH levels and higher serum T4 levels compared to those with H. pylori seronegativity. A significant positive correlation was identified between H. pylori seropositivity and T4 levels with increasing quartiles of hormonal levels in both univariate regression models (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 1.483; 95% CI, 1.033–2.129) and multivariate regression models (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 1.004; 95% CI, 0.981–1.026). Conversely, a negative correlation was observed between H. pylori seropositivity and TSH levels with increasing quartiles of hormonal levels in univariate regression models (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 0.579; 95% CI, 0.403–0.831) and in multivariate regression models (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 0.580; 95% CI, 0.389–0.866). In stratified analyses, the adjusted association of serum T4 levels with H. pylori seropositivity was statistically significant among men (T4: Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 2.253; 95% CI, 1.311–3.873), age over 68 years in TSH levels (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 0.434; 95% CI, 0.206–0.911), and age 41–54 years in T4 levels (Q4 vs. Q1: OR = 4.965; 95% CI, 2.071–11.903). RCS analysis revealed a non-linear relationship between TSH levels and H. pylori infection. Notably, when TSH < 0.98 IU/ml, the likelihood of H. pylori infection significantly increased.

Conclusions

Lower TSH and higher T4 levels were associated with H. pylori infection, particularly among men and elderly individuals.
Development of research on HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder and emerging trends: a visualization analysis via CiteSpace
Authors: Zhou Tingting , Chen Xuannan , Lai Yu
Published: February 2025

Background

In the combination antiretroviral therapy era, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) is still widespread among HIV-infected individuals. However, there is no effective treatment for HAND, and the exact pathogenic mechanism of HAND remains unknown. This paper aims to provide a reference for further exploration in the field of HAND research.

Methods

We used CiteSpace software to collect 3057 articles related to HAND in the Web of Science Core Collection for comprehensive analysis. Betweenness centrality, count, and burst values were used as indicators in the visualization analysis, aiming to predict future new directions and cutting-edge trends.

Results

The last decade has been the peak period of HAND research, with the most prominent contributions by authors, countries, and institutions being Grant, Igor (135), the USA (2211), and the University of California System (758), respectively. The most frequently cited article is “HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders persist in the area of potent antiretroviral therapy: CHARTER Study.” The hotspots in this field are “neurocognitive impairment,” “central nervous system,” “cerebrospinal fluid,” “HIV-1 tat,” “SIV,” “inflammation,” “infection,” and “pathogenesis.” The current research direction of HAND is focused on exploring the pathogenic mechanism underlying HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment and potential therapeutic targets.

Conclusion

This study provides a bibliometric visualization of HAND-related literature to gain insight into the development and frontiers of this research field. The study also provides scholars with detailed references and identifies future research directions to better promote the development of this field of research.
Exploring the exoproteome of the parasitic nematode Anisakis simplex (s. s.) and its impact on the human host – an in vitro cross-talk proteomic approach
Authors: Stryiński Robert , Fiedorowicz Ewa , Mateos Jesús , Andronowska Aneta , Łopieńska-Biernat Elżbieta , Carrera Mónica
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Anisakis simplex sensu stricto (s. s.) is one of the most widespread parasitic nematodes of marine organisms, with humans as accidental hosts. While many studies have explored nematode biology and host interactions, the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as signaling molecules in parasitic nematodes is less understood.

Materials and methods

Therefore, the proteins present in the EVs of A. simplex (s. s.) (Anis-EVs) were identified. In addition, a cross-talk proteomic approach was used to identify differentially regulated proteins (DRPs) in the proteome of the human intestinal epithelial cell line (Caco-2) co-cultured with L3 larvae of A. simplex (s. s.) or directly exposed to two concentrations (low or high) of Anis-EVs. In addition, DRPs were identified in the proteome of A. simplex (s. s.) larvae affected by co-culture with Caco-2. To achieve this goal, the shotgun proteomics method based on isobaric mass labeling (via tandem mass tags; TMT) was used with a combination of nano high-performance liquid chromatography (nLC) coupled with an LTQ-Orbitrap Elite mass spectrometer. In addition, ELISA assays were used to demonstrate if Caco-2 respond to A. simplex (s. s.) larvae and Anis-EVs with significant changes in selected cytokines secretion.

Results

The results of this study indicate the anti-inflammatory character of Anis-EVs in relation to Caco-2. At the same time, direct treatment with Anis-EVs resulted in more significant changes in the Caco-2 proteome than co-culture with L3 larvae.

Discussion

The results obtained should lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of A. simplex (s. s.) infection in humans and will complement the existing knowledge on the role of EVs in host-parasite communication.
Identification of novel autoantibodies in Sjögren’s disease
Authors: Engelke Fiona , Budde Petra , De Vita Salvatore , Dörner Thomas , Ernst Diana , Gras Jan , Heidecke Harald , Kilian Annika Loredana , Kniesch Katja , Lindemann Ann-Sophie , Quartuccio Luca , Ritter Jacob , Schulze-Forster Kai , Seeliger Benjamin , Zucht Hans-Dieter , Witte Torsten
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The diagnosis of Sjögren’s disease (SjD) in patients without autoantibodies against Ro/SSA is a major challenge. We aimed to identify novel autoantibodies in SjD that may facilitate the diagnostic procedure for Ro/SSA negative SjD.

Methods

IgG and IgA autoantibody reactivity of 94 potential candidate autoantigens for SjD, selected from a discovery screen of 1,629 human antigens coupled to Luminex beads and prior knowledge about potential biological relevance, were examined in serum of SjD patients (n=347) using Luminex and ELISA technology. Healthy (HC, n=118) and non-Sjögren’s sicca syndrome (NSS, n=44) individuals served as controls. To assess disease specificity, the novel autoantibodies were also measured in serum of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA, n=50), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE, n=49), and Systemic Sclerosis (SSc, n=37).

Results

45 novel autoantibodies were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) more prevalent in SjD than in HC and were detected in up to 19% of the SjD cohort. The most common autoantibodies were against CCL4, M5, TMPO and OAS3. Some of the novel autoantibodies were associated with extraglandular disease manifestations, such as anti-TONSL or anti-IL6 with pulmonary involvement. We have developed a three and five marker panel for the detection of Ro/SSA negative patients, consisting of anti-FNBP4, anti-SNRPC, anti-CCL4, anti-M3 and anti-KDM6B, which had a sensitivity of up to 46% with a specificity of 95% (SjD vs. HC). Both panels discriminate these patients from HC, whereas the three-marker more effectively differentiates between Ro/SSA negative patients and NSS.

Discussion

Novel autoantibodies will facilitate the diagnosis of Ro/SSA negative patients with SjD, in particular our predictive panel will be useful in the diagnosis and differentiation of these patients from healthy and NSS individuals in a clinical context. In addition, the autoantibodies may also be useful for risk stratification of extraglandular manifestations.
Secreted PD-L1 alleviates inflammatory arthritis in mice through local and systemic AAV gene therapy
Authors: Li Wenjun , Sun Junjiang , Feng Susi , La Rosa Ariana , Zhang Panli , Wu Eveline Y. , Loeser Richard , Li Chengwen
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) primarily affects the joints but can also affect multiple organs and profoundly impacts patients’ ability to carry out daily activities, mental health, and life expectancy. Current treatments for RA are limited in terms of duration, efficacy, and adverse effects. PD-L1 is a checkpoint protein that plays important roles in immune regulation and has been implicated in the initiation and progression of multiple autoimmune diseases.

Method

In a previous study, we demonstrated that intra-articular injection with adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors encoding wild type PD-L1 improved local inflammation in the joint in the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model of RA. To further improve efficacy, we explored AAV-mediated delivery of the soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1) to CIA mice.

Result

After intra-articular injection of AAV6 vectors expressing the optimal isoform of sPD-L1 (shPD-L1), more potency was observed when compared to wild type PD-L1, with a lower dose of AAV6/shPD-L1 needed for arthritis improvement. To study the therapeutic effect of systemic expression of sPD-L1, we administered AAV8/shPD-L1 gene therapy in CIA mice via retro-orbital injection and found significant improvements in joint inflammation and paw swelling, exhibiting similar phenotypes to that in naïve mice. The levels of total immunoglobulin and anti-collagen specific antibodies were lower in AAV8/shPD-L1 treated CIA mice than those in controls. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in blood were also significantly decreased in shPD-L1 treated mice. Additionally, T cell apoptosis rates in the spleen showed a 2-fold increase in treated mice. Finally, we investigated the therapeutic effect of AAV/shPD-L1 via intramuscular injection. After injection of AAV6/shPD-L1, decreased paw swelling, reduced joint inflammation, and lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in blood were achieved. The therapeutic effect of shPD-L1 was dose dependent via intramuscular treatment with AAV vectors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the findings in this study suggest that intra-articular injection of AAV vectors encoding sPD-L1 results in greater therapeutic benefit on arthritis, and systemic AAV/sPD-L1 is able to block the development of inflammatory arthritis with inhibition of the systemic immune response, underlining the potential of gene therapy with systemic delivery of shPD-L1 via AAV vectors in RA.
Cellular senescence: from homeostasis to pathological implications and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Li Chunhong , Yuan Yixiao , Jia YingDong , Zhou Qiang , Wang Qiang , Jiang Xiulin
Published: February 2025

Cellular aging is a multifactorial and intricately regulated physiological process with profound implications. The interaction between cellular senescence and cancer is complex and multifaceted, senescence can both promote and inhibit tumor progression through various mechanisms. M6A methylation modification regulates the aging process of cells and tissues by modulating senescence-related genes. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the characteristics of cellular senescence, the signaling pathways regulating senescence, the biomarkers of senescence, and the mechanisms of anti-senescence drugs. Notably, this review also delves into the complex interactions between senescence and cancer, emphasizing the dual role of the senescent microenvironment in tumor initiation, progression, and treatment. Finally, we thoroughly explore the function and mechanism of m6A methylation modification in cellular senescence, revealing its critical role in regulating gene expression and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on the molecular mechanisms and biological significance of cellular senescence and offers new insights for the development of anti-senescence strategies.
Ocean equity: from assessment to action to improve social equity in ocean governance
Authors: Bennett Nathan J. , Relano Veronica , Roumbedakis Katina , Blythe Jessica , Andrachuk Mark , Claudet Joachim , Dawson Neil , Gill David , Lazzari Natali , Mahajan Shauna L. , Muhl Ella-Kari , Riechers Maraja , Strand Mia , Villasante Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Inequity is ubiquitous in the ocean, and social equity receives insufficient attention in ocean governance and management efforts. Thus, we assert that proponents of sustainability must center social equity in future ocean governance, to address past social and environmental injustices, to align with international law and conservation policy, and to realize objectives of sustainability. This obligation applies across all marine policy realms, including marine conservation, fisheries management, climate adaptation and the ocean economy, in all socio-political contexts and at different geographical scales. Indeed, many governmental, non-governmental, and philanthropic organizations are striving to advance social equity across their ocean sustainability focused agendas, policies, programs, initiatives, and portfolios. To date, however, there has been limited attention to how to meaningfully assess status and monitor progress on social equity in ocean governance (aka “ocean equity”) across different marine policy realms. Here, we contribute to ongoing efforts to advance ocean equity through providing guidance on five steps to develop bespoke, fit to purpose and contextually appropriate assessment and monitoring frameworks and approaches to measure status of and track changes in ocean equity. These steps include: 1) Clearly articulating the overarching purpose and aim; 2) Convening a participatory group and process to co-design the assessment framework; 3) Identifying important objectives, aspects and attributes of social equity to assess; 4) Selecting and developing indicators, methods, and measures; and 5) Collecting, analyzing and evaluating data. Then, we discuss four subsequent steps to take into account to ensure that assessments lead to adaptations or transformations to improve ocean equity. These steps include: 1) Communicating results to reach key audiences, to enable learning and inform decision-making; 2) Deliberating on actions and selecting interventions to improve ocean equity; 3) Ensuring actions to improve ocean equity are implemented; and, 4) Committing to continual cycles of monitoring, evaluation, learning and adapting at regular intervals. Following these steps could contribute to a change in how oceans are governed. The diligent pursuit of ocean equity will help to ensure that the course towards a sustainable ocean is more representative, inclusive and just.
Case report: dysgeusia, strawberry tongue, and psoriatic eruptions after combination treatment with adalimumab, sulfasalazine, and etoricoxib for ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Cui Binglin , Lin Jing , Huang Yuanchun , Zhu Huachen , Zou Jinbo , Qin Jiesheng , Pan Hui , Chen Jian
Published: February 2025

Background

Tumor necrosis factor blockers can suppress immune system and lead to various adverse drug reactions, including deaths. We present a rare case of dysgeusia, strawberry tongue, and psoriasis-like eruptions after simultaneous administration of adalimumab, sulfasalazine, and etoricoxib.

Case description

A 36 year-old male with ankylosing spondylitis presented with progressive loss of taste for 3 months and rashes on his upper trunk for 5 days. He had been receiving adalimumab, sulfasalazine, and etoricoxib for 9 months. After self-discontinuing the medicines, the rashes gradually subsided. On examination, swollen and red strawberry tongue were noticed. Acinetobacter pittii was isolated by sputum culture. The patient refused any treatment. During follow-up, recurrent dispersed papules/macules and desquamation appeared on his upper trunk, with erythema and erosion in umbilical region. Subsequently, generalized scalp erythema, exudates, scabs, hair bundles, redness and desquamation behind ears occurred. The tongue, taste, and skin lesions resolved sequentially and steadily until complete recovery.

Outcome

He remained in remission during 4 years follow-up. The total course of disease was around 10 months.

Discussion

Clinicians should be cautious of the adverse drug reactions/events due to adalimumab, sulfasalazine, and etoricoxib. Rational use of medicines is advocated.
Dual targeting carbonic anhydrase inhibitors as promising therapeutic approach: a structural overview
Authors: D’Ambrosio Katia , Di Fiore Anna , Langella Emma
Published: February 2025

The dual-target inhibitor strategy is an evolving approach that holds great potential for treating complex diseases by addressing their multifactorial nature. It can enhance therapeutic outcomes, reduce side effects and avoid the emergence of drug resistance, particularly in conditions like cancer, inflammation and neurological disorders, where multiple pathways contribute to disease progression. Identifying suitable targets for a dual inhibitor approach requires a deep understanding of disease biology, knowledge of critical pathways, and selection of complementary or synergistic targets. Human carbonic anhydrases (hCAs) have been recognized as suitable drug targets for this therapeutic approach. These enzymes play a key role in maintaining pH balance, ion transport, and fluid regulation across various tissues and organs and their dysregulation has been associated to a variety of human pathologies. Consequently, the inhibition of hCAs combined to the possibility to modulate the activity of a second molecular target represents a promising way for developing more effective drugs. In this mini-review, we aim to present an overview of the most significant structural results related to the development of novel therapeutics employing hCA inhibitors as dual-targeting compounds for the treatment of complex diseases.
Potential biomarkers and immune infiltration linking endometriosis with recurrent pregnancy loss based on bioinformatics and machine learning
Authors: Chen Jianhui , Li Qun , Liu Xiaofang , Lin Fang , Jing Yaling , Yang Jiayan , Zhao Lianfang
Published: February 2025

Objective

Endometriosis (EMs) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue in the non-uterine cavity, resulting in dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, and infertility. Epidemiologic data have suggested the correlation between EMs and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), but the pathological mechanism is unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential biomarkers and immune infiltration in EMs and RPL, providing a basis for early detection and treatment of the two diseases.

Methods

Two RPL and six EMs transcriptomic datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were used for differential analysis via limma package, followed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) for key modules screening. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and two machine learning algorithms were applied to identify the common core genes in both diseases. The diagnostic capabilities of the core genes were assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Moreover, immune cell infiltration was estimated using CIBERSORTx, and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was employed to elucidate the role of key genes in endometrial carcinoma (EC).

Results

26 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened in both diseases, three of which were identified as common core genes (MAN2A1, PAPSS1, RIBC2) through the combination of WGCNA, PPI network, and machine learning-based feature selection. The area under the curve (AUC) values generated by the ROC indicates excellent diagnostic powers in both EMs and RPL. The key genes were found to be significantly associated with the infiltration of several immune cells. Interestingly, MAN2A1 and RIBC2 may play a predominant role in the development and prognostic stratification of EC.

Conclusion

We identified three key genes linking EMs and RPL, emphasizing the heterogeneity of immune infiltration in the occurrence of both diseases. These findings may provide new mechanistic insights or therapeutic targets for further research of EMs and RPL.
A review of parameter settings for galvanic vestibular stimulation in clinical applications
Authors: Valter Yishai , Vataksi Linda , Allred Aaron R. , Hebert Jeffrey R. , Brunyé Tad T. , Clark Torin K. , Serrador Jorge , Datta Abhishek
Published: February 2025

Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS) is a method of manipulating the vestibular system through non-invasive electrical current. Depending on how GVS is applied, it produces specific sensations related to vestibular mediated central pathways. The method has been tested for decades for both medical and non-medical applications and has demonstrated promise in treating a variety of disorders including peripheral vestibular conditions, central vestibular pathology due to neurodegenerative diseases, and post-stroke motor rehabilitation. As GVS continues to grow in popularity and applications, the field lacks clarity on appropriate stimulation parameters, despite their importance for safe and efficacious neuromodulation. This study aims to review the parameters used in various treatment applications while also providing a concise overview of the mechanisms underlying GVS thereby offering essential context and justification for the chosen parameters. We performed a literature search on the PubMed and Embase databases for clinical trials including the term “galvanic vestibular stimulation.” After removing duplicates, secondary analyses, and studies that did not use GVS for therapeutic purposes, we were left with 53 independent studies. We extracted the stimulation parameters used in each study and report them here. The results of this review suggest that while some stimulation parameters are relatively standardized for specific treatment indications, others lack universally accepted guidelines as the field of GVS continues to evolve. Based on our findings, we recommend that future GVS research include at least one sham condition, the use of individualized current intensity, and the comparison of multiple GVS parameters within the same trial.
The effects of lutein/ zeaxanthin (Lute-gen®) on eye health, eye strain, sleep quality, and attention in high electronic screen users: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Lopresti A. L. , Smith S. J.
Published: February 2025

Background

Lutein and zeaxanthin are fat-soluble antioxidant nutrients that have evidence of beneficial effects on vision and eye health.

Purpose

Examine the effects of supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin isomers (Lute-gen®) on eye health, eye strain, sleep quality, and attention in high electronic screen users.

Study design

Two-arm, 6-month, parallel-group, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Methods

Seventy volunteers aged 18 to 65 who used electronic screens for more than 6 h daily were supplemented with 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin-isomers or a placebo. Outcome measures included several ophthalmic examinations comprising the Schirmer tear test, photo-stress recovery time, contrast sensitivity, tear film break-up time, and self-report measures of visual fatigue, computer vision, sleep quality and attention.

Results

Compared to the placebo, lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation was associated with greater improvements in the Schirmer tear test, photo-stress recovery time, and tear film break-up time. However, there were no between-group differences in the change in self-report measures or contrast sensitivity. Lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation was well-tolerated, with no reports of serious adverse reactions or clinically significant changes in safety blood measures, including liver function, renal function, blood lipids, and full blood examination.

Conclusion

The results from this study provide support for the beneficial effects of 6 months of lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation on regular users of electronic screens. Compared to the placebo, there were improvements in several ophthalmic examinations for dry eyes and visual health. However, these findings were not corroborated by group differences in the administered self-report measures. Lutein and zeaxanthin were well tolerated, with no serious adverse effects or significant changes in vital signs or blood safety measures.
Determinants of adherence to the Mediterranean diet among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus living in Mediterranean countries: a systematic review
Authors: Ayoub Janot J. , Haidar Suzan A. , Blaak Ellen E. , De Vries Nanne K.
Published: February 2025

Background

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are often encouraged to adopt a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean Diet (MD) yet limited evidence exists about adherence. An increased shift toward a “Western” dietary pattern was observed.

Objective

This systematic review aims to gain insight into the various factors that may enhance or reduce adherence to the MD in patients with T2DM residing in Mediterranean countries.

Method

We retrieved published studies from 2000 to 2023 from PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Medline, and PsycINFO databases. The criteria for inclusion included individuals residing in Mediterranean countries aged 18+ with T2DM who underwent assessment using a validated MD scoring tool. We included 17 studies, with participant numbers ranging from 106 to 7,447.

Results

Compliance with the MD was moderate, with the most significant determinants of adherence being age, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), marital status, and educational level. However, limited information is available on psychological and economic determinants.

Conclusion

Various factors, especially sociodemographic ones, influence adherence to the MD among patients with T2DM. Future research should explore economic and psychological factors that may significantly impact adherence.

Systematic review register

Prospero: CRD42023396094.
Case report: Chest radiotherapy-induced vertebral fractures in lung cancer patients: a case series and literature review
Authors: Arrieta Oscar , Lozano-Ruiz Francisco , Guijosa Alberto , Soberanis-Pina Pamela , Blake-Cerda Monika , Gómez-García Ana Pamela , Maldonado-Magos Federico , Conde-Flores Emilio , Cardona Andrés F. , Pérez Álvarez Sandra Ileana , Cabrera-Miranda Luis Antonio
Published: February 2025

Background

As survival rates for lung cancer (LC) patients continue to rise, the adverse impacts of therapies become more relevant. Radiotherapy is known to negatively affect bone health. However, radiotherapy-induced vertebral fractures in lung cancer patients remain an exceedingly rare and underrecognized condition that could be mistaken for bone metastasis.

Case presentation

We identified three LC patients (all long-term survivors), aged 67 to 81, who developed thoracic vertebral fractures post-chest radiotherapy, within irradiated fields; two had advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and one had extensive small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Baseline imaging confirmed that the fractures occurred after therapy. The median time from radiotherapy to fracture onset was 19 months (range: 1-30 months), with a median follow-up time from the initial fracture of 39 months (range: 37-61 months). All observed fractures were compressive in nature. These patients shared common characteristics, including advanced age, a history of heavy smoking, and high radiation doses. Additionally, hypermetabolic activity at the fracture sites necessitated MRI to differentiate these fractures from bone metastases. Management involved interventional strategies such as vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, and rhizotomy, along with general and pharmacological measures to prevent subsequent fractures.

Conclusions

Despite their low incidence, radiotherapy-induced vertebral fractures in LC patients are clinically significant and may resemble bone metastases on PET-CT imaging. MRI, alongside risk factors similar to those of osteoporosis, can facilitate prompt identification and differentiation. As survival rates in LC patients improve, the relevance of this adverse effect increases, underscoring the need for implementing bone protective strategies to further enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.
Assessment of myocardial deformation by CMR tissue tracking reveals left ventricular subclinical myocardial dysfunction in patients with gynecologic cancer undergoing chemotherapy
Authors: Tao Kai , Ye Lu , Xu Yan-Jia-Ni , Yang Meng-Xi , Yin Ru-Tie , Li Qing-Li , Lin Xiao-Juan , Li Ke-Min , Song Liang , Ma Yu , Zhong Lan , Hu Ying , Xu Hua-Yan , Wang Dan-Qing , Guo Ying-Kun
Published: February 2025

Background

Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is a concern for patients with gynecologic cancer. This study aimed to assess left ventricular (LV) myocardial deformation in patients with gynecologic cancer undergoing chemotherapy and to investigate the association between myocardial deformation and chemotherapy factors.

Methods

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) was performed to assess LV deformation parameters using CMR tissue tracking based on cine images. Serum myocardial injury biomarker were measured. Deformation parameters were compared between healthy controls and patients. Changes in deformation were assessed as chemotherapy progressed. Correlations between LV deformation parameters, clinical characteristics, and serum myocardial injury biomarkers were also analyzed.

Results

A total of 86 patients with gynecologic cancer and 30 normal controls were included. Among the patients, 41 completed CMR follow-up with a median interval of 6 months. Compared to the controls, patients exhibited lower absolute value of global radial strain (GRS) (37.30 ± 8.94% vs. 44.32 ± 8.44%), global circumferential strain (GCS) (-22.12 ± 3.05% vs. -24.08 ± 2.13%) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) (median -15.72% [IQR-17.13 to -13.58%] vs. -17.51 ± 2.00 %) (all p < 0.05). Patients with preserved LV ejection fraction (LVEF) also showed impaired global strain (all p < 0.05). GRS (39.71 ± 8.09% vs. median 30.56% [IQR 26.52 to 38.15%]; p = 0.001), GCS (-23.45 ± 2.09% vs. median -19.71% [IQR -21.71 to -19.10%]; p < 0.001) and GLS (-16.17 ± 2.42% vs. median -12.12% [IQR -14.10 to -8.53%]; p< 0.001) further decreased as the number of chemotherapy cycles increased during follow-up (all p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that GCS was independently associated with the number of chemotherapy regimens (Standard regression coefficient [β] = 0.397, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Myocardial deformation is more sensitive than LVEF in detecting subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in patients with gynecologic cancer undergoing chemotherapy. GCS was associated with the number of chemotherapy regimens.
Overview of female healthcare providers’ outlooks on cervical cancer screening: a narrative review
Authors: Gezimu Wubishet , Demeke Ababo , Bekele Firomsa , Alemu Solomon Seyife , Fikadu Lema , Demsash Addisalem Workie , Dube Geleta Nenko , Kitil Gemeda Wakgari , Ezo Elias
Published: February 2025

Background

Cervical cancer is the second most frequent gynecologic cancer. Uniquely, it is easily preventable and treatable cancer if identified early. The insights of healthcare providers about cervical cancer screening have a crucial role in prevention and treatment. However, there has been limited literature on the providers’ perspectives on cervical cancer screening.

Objective

This review narrated the female healthcare providers’ (FHCPs’) outlooks on cervical cancer screening in terms of risk perceptions, awareness, knowledge, attitude, practice, and possible barriers.

Methods

A thorough literature search was conducted to identify studies conducted on female healthcare providers’ overview of the perceived risk of cervical cancer, cervical cancer screening awareness, knowledge, attitude, and practice, as well as barriers to cervical cancer screening. Databases such as PubMed, Medline, Embase, Virtual Health Library, and Google Scholar were used to search for articles.

Results

Accordingly, this review identified that female healthcare providers have a low perceived risk of the disease, poor awareness and knowledge, unfavorable attitudes, and low uptake of screening practices. Furthermore, this review highlights the obstacles to cervical cancer screening acceptance, such as service inaccessibility, a lack of training and education, and fear of the procedure and results.

Conclusion

This narrative review described the variable distribution of the FHCPs’ perceived risk of acquiring cervical cancer (CC). Poor knowledge and screening practices were observed. Moreover, the barriers to cervical cancer screening uptake were described. Given that healthcare providers are on the frontlines (act as role models) in increasing the community’s cervical cancer screening uptake, we suggest concerned bodies increase screening access and implement staff training programs. In addition, further mixed studies should be considered to deeply understand the possible attributes ingrained in individual and social belief systems.
Comparative efficacy of topical commercial Chinese polyherbal preparation for vulvovaginal candidiasis: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Lizheng , Jing Shangwen , Li Na , Cao Dandan , Pei Fangli , Luo Yantong , Chen Xiaoxin , Huang Yingjie , Zeng Cheng
Published: February 2025

Objective

To systematically evaluate the differences in the efficacy of commonly used topical commercial Chinese polyherbal preparations (CCPPs) for vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), and to provide evidence-based reference for clinical drug regimens.

Methods

Computer searched major Chinese and English literature databases, and collected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of external use of CCPPs combined with conventional treatment (CT, test group) versus CT alone (control group) in patients with VVC. After screening the literature, the quality of the included studies was assessed using the risk of bias assessment tool recommended in 5.3 of the Cochrane Handbook. Outcome data for each outcome measure were extracted and a network meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.0.

Results

A total of 74 RCTs with a total of 8,151 patients were included, nine interventions were involved. The results of network meta-analysis showed that, Fufang Shajiziyou suppository combined with CT was more effective in improving the negative conversion rate and controlling the recurrence rate of Candida albicans. Kangfu gel combined with CT had the better effect in relieving pruritus. Baofukang suppository combined with CT was the most effective in reducing leukorrhea. Fufukang spray combined with CT had fewer adverse reactions.

Conclusion

The addition of CCPPs to CT may acquire a better curative effect in patients with VVC and external does not significantly increase the occurrence of adverse reactions. However, due to the low quality of the included literature, larger-scale, higher-quality clinical studies are still needed.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, NO: CRD42023410244.
ELABELA promotes the migration and homing of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to myocardial injury sites through the ERK1/2/miR-299a-5p/Exo70 pathway
Authors: Hou Jing-Yu , Wu Hao , Li Shuang-Mei , Li Xiao-Jing , Yang Shu-Jun , Chen Xu-Xiang , Zhou Chang-Qing , Long Hui-Bao , Wu Hai-Dong , Fu Jia-Ying , Guo Ya-Jie , Wang Tong
Published: February 2025

Background

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) hold promise for repairing myocardial injury following acute myocardial infarction (AMI), but their clinical application is hindered by poor migration, homing efficiency, and survival rates. Previously, we demonstrated that ELABELA (ELA), a small peptide, enhances the survival of rat BMSCs under hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) conditions by activating ERK1/2. However, the role of ELA in promoting BMSCs migration and homing to injured cardiomyocytes remains unclear.

Methods

Primary BMSCs and neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) were isolated and cultured. NRVMs were exposed to H/R to mimic the microenvironment of AMI in vitro. The migration of BMSCs toward the injured myocardium was assessed in different treatment groups using transwell and chemotaxis assays. Additionally, in vivo studies were performed using a rat myocardial infarction/reperfusion injury (MI/RI) model with DIR-labeled BMSCs. Cardiac repair was evaluated through fluorescence imaging, echocardiography, and histological analysis. Transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were employed to identify and validate the mechanisms by which ELA promoted the migration of BMSCs. A dual luciferase assay was used to investigate the interaction between Exo70 and miR-299a-5p. Subsequently, a series of experimental procedures were performed, including sequential silencing of APJ or Exo70, overexpression of miR-299a-5p, inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation, assessment of BMSCs migration through transwell and scratch assays, detection of F-actin polymerization via immunofluorescence, and evaluation of the expression levels of each factor using qPCR and Western blotting.

Results

In vitro, the migration ability of ELA-pretreated BMSCs was significantly augmented in the H/R environment. ELA pretreatment effectively heightened the homing capacity of BMSCs to the site of myocardial injury and their proficiency in repairing myocardial damage in vivo. Transcriptome sequencing revealed upregulation of Exo70 in ELA pretreated BMSCs, which promoted F-actin polymerization and migration. Overexpression of miR-299a-5p reduced Exo70 expression and impaired BMSCs migration. ELA also activated ERK1/2 phosphorylation, while inhibition of ERK1/2·with U0126 abrogated F-actin polymerization and migration, increasing miR-299a-5p levels and reducing Exo70.

Conclusion

ELA enhances BMSCs migration and homing to injured cardiomyocytes by activating the APJ receptor, promoting ERK1/2 phosphorylation, downregulating miR-299a-5p, and upregulating Exo70, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for improving stem cell-based cardiac repair.
Evaluating sowing uniformity in hybrid rice using image processing and the OEW-YOLOv8n network
Authors: Li Zehua , Pan Yihui , Ma Xu , Lin Yongjun , Wang Xicheng , Li Hongwei
Published: February 2025

Sowing uniformity is an important evaluation indicator of mechanical sowing quality. In order to achieve accurate evaluation of sowing uniformity in hybrid rice mechanical sowing, this study takes the seeds in a seedling tray of hybrid rice blanket-seedling nursing as the research object and proposes a method for evaluating sowing uniformity by combining image processing methods and the ODConv_C2f-ECA-WIoU-YOLOv8n (OEW-YOLOv8n) network. Firstly, image processing methods are used to segment seed image and obtain seed grids. Next, an improved model named OEW-YOLOv8n based on YOLOv8n is proposed to identify the number of seeds in a unit seed grid. The improved strategies include the following: (1) Replacing the Conv module in the Bottleneck of C2f modules with the Omni-Dimensional Dynamic Convolution (ODConv) module, where C2f modules are located at the connection between the Backbone and Neck. This improvement can enhance the feature extraction ability of the Backbone network, as the new modules can fully utilize the information of all dimensions of the convolutional kernel. (2) An Efficient Channel Attention (ECA) module is added to the Neck for improving the network’s capability to extract deep semantic feature information of the detection target. (3) In the Bbox module of the prediction head, the Complete Intersection over Union (CIoU) loss function is replaced by the Weighted Intersection over Union version 3 (WIoUv3) loss function to improve the convergence speed of the bounding box loss function and reduce the convergence value of the loss function. The results show that the mean average precision (mAP) of the OEW-YOLOv8n network reaches 98.6%. Compared to the original model, the mAP improved by 2.5%. Compared to the advanced object detection algorithms such as Faster-RCNN, SSD, YOLOv4, YOLOv5s YOLOv7-tiny, and YOLOv10s, the mAP of the new network increased by 5.2%, 7.8%, 4.9%, 2.8% 2.9%, and 3.3%, respectively. Finally, the actual evaluation experiment showed that the test error is from −2.43% to 2.92%, indicating that the improved network demonstrates excellent estimation accuracy. The research results can provide support for the mechanized sowing quality detection of hybrid rice and the intelligent research of rice seeder.
Nano-selenium strengthens potato resistance to potato scab induced by Streptomyces spp., increases yield, and elevates tuber quality by influencing rhizosphere microbiomes
Authors: Liu Haixu , Zhang Yan , Zhang Lili , Liu Yingjie , Chen Yufei , Shi Ying
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The application of selenium could directly or indirectly modulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes in crops, thereby mitigating the detrimental effects of abiotic and biotic stresses on crop health. However, there are few studies on the effects of nano-selenium fertilizer on potato scab caused by Streptomyces spp., potato yield and tuber quality.

Methods

We aimed to elucidate the impact of nano-selenium fertilizer on potato disease resistance, yield, tuber quality, antioxidant enzyme activity and rhizosphere soil bacterial communities, and to determine the optimal frequency and growth stages of nano-selenium fertilizer spraying.

Results and discussion

The application of nano-selenium fertilizer twice during the seedling stage significantly reduced the disease index of potato scab, enhanced potato yield, tuber quality (dry matter, Vitamin C, crude protein, and selenium content), and antioxidant enzyme activity (glutathione peroxidase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, superoxide dismutase, and phenylalanine ammonia lyase). The diversity of the rhizosphere bacterial community of potatoes subjected to selenium fertilizer spraying at the seedling stage increased significantly, and concurrently, the symbiotic network of rhizosphere bacterial microbiome grew more complex. Beneficial microorganisms such as bacteria of the genus Bacillus were enriched in the rhizosphere soil. The current study provided theoretical support for the exploration of a potato selenium-enriched technology system and supplies scientific guidance for the utilization of nano-selenium.
Integrative analysis of metabolite and transcriptome reveals the biosynthetic pathway and candidate genes for iridoid glycoside biosynthesis in Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora (Pennell) D.Y.Hong
Authors: Rao Ke , Liu Siyu , Tang Xiaohui , Jia Guofu , Yang Shaohua , Ren Chaoxiang , Pei Jin
Published: February 2025

Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora (Pennell) D.Y.Hong (N. scrophulariiflora) is an important wild medicinal plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. Its main active ingredients, picroside I (P-I) and picroside II (P-II), possess anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antibacterial properties. Due to overharvesting, N. scrophulariiflora resources are facing the risk of depletion, urgently requiring resource protection and rational utilization. However, the biosynthetic pathways and related genes of active compounds in N. scrophulariiflora have not been fully investigated. In this study, widely targeted metabolomics and RNA-seq technology were employed to perform a joint analysis of the metabolome and transcriptome in different tissues of N. scrophulariiflora, including the roots, stems, and leaves. A total of 196 flavonoids and 63 terpenoids were identified. Among the 158,254 annotated genes, 74 were annotated as related to iridoid synthesis. Using bioinformatics methods such as clustering analysis, phylogenetic tree construction, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), 43 candidate genes were identified that may be involved in the biosynthesis of picroside-I and picroside-II, of which 26 genes were significantly correlated with the synthesis of picrosides and their intermediates. Transcriptome analysis revealed the expression patterns of differentially expressed genes, and metabolomic analysis revealed the distribution characteristics of metabolites in different tissues of N. scrophulariiflora. Through qRT-PCR validation, we found that three NsF3H/NsF3D genes, four NsUGD/NsUPD genes, one Ns2HFD gene, and three NsSQM genes may participate in the iridoid biosynthesis pathway. These findings provide important genetic and metabolomic information for an in-depth understanding of the biosynthetic mechanisms of iridoids and lay the foundation for the protection and sustainable utilization of N. scrophulariiflora.