bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulatory mechanism of Reelin activity: a platform for exploiting Reelin as a therapeutic agent
Authors: Hattori Mitsuharu
Published: January 2025

Reelin is a secreted glycoprotein that was initially investigated in the field of neuronal development. However, in recent decades, its role in the adult brain has become increasingly important, and it is now clear that diminished Reelin function is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Reelin activity is regulated at multiple steps, including synthesis, posttranslational modification, secretion, oligomerization, proteolytic processing, and interactions with extracellular molecules. Moreover, the differential use of two canonical receptors and the presence of non-canonical receptors and co-receptors add to the functional diversity of Reelin. In this review, I summarize recent findings on the molecular mechanisms of Reelin activity. I also discuss possible strategies to enhance Reelin’s function. A complete understanding of Reelin function and its regulatory mechanisms in the adult central nervous system could help ameliorate neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
Comparative analysis of phytonutrients of Moringa oleifera leaves from South Africa and Nigeria, and their antimicrobial and antioxidant potentials by UPLC-ESI-QToF-MS and OPLS-DA chemometric analysis
Authors: Kayembe Jonathan , Sekelwa Cosa , Bassey Kokoette
Published: January 2025

Background

Moringa oleifera Lam. has bioactive phytonutrients in abundance and offers diverse health benefits. The leaves of this plant have established significance in traditional medicine and nutrition. It is traditionally used by Nigerian and South African mothers to mitigate undernutrition. Usually, the powder leaves are added to porridge to feed the children. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the phytonutrients (nutrients protectors) or supplements, antioxidant, and antimicrobial potentials of M. oleifera leaves from Nigeria and South Africa to benchmark quality control protocols for commercial beverages such as Moringa porridge.

Methods

Standard techniques, including high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-QToF-MS) and chemometrics orthogonal partial least square discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were employed for phytoconstituents fingerprinting. Whereas the antioxidant potentials of the extracts were determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays, the antimicrobial potentials of the extracts were evaluated using minimum inhibitory concentrations protocol.

Results

The chemometric analysis with a line regression (R2) = 0.97 revealed 70% significant similarities in the phytonutrients of samples between the two regions and an intriguing 30% variation within the same plant species. In addition, kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin, tangutorid E, and podophyllotoxin, among others were annotated as the major phytonutrients in the samples. The antioxidant assays unveiled concentration-dependent trends with scavenging activity of up to 98% (half-maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50] = 0.14 mg/mL) for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 87% (IC50 = 0.28 mg/mL) for hydrogen peroxide assay. All the test extracts did not exhibit good to significant antibacterial inhibitory effect (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] = 1.25 mg/mL) compared to ciprofloxacin (MIC = 0.0156–0.0039 mg/mL).

Conclusion

The variations in the phytonutrients of the same M. oleifera species harvested from different countries could have dire consequences including potential health risks and even death. This study should serve as a benchmark toward the phytonutrients and marketing implications on the quality of products formulated with samples harvested from different growth environments and exists as a reference for further research into the cultivation and marketing of M. oleifera leaves in South Africa.
Acute effect of endurance exercise on human milk insulin concentrations: a randomised cross-over study
Authors: Holm Rebecca Lyng , Holmen Mads , Sujan Md Abu Jafar , Giskeødegård Guro F. , Moholdt Trine
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Insulin is present in human milk and its concentration correlates with maternal circulating levels. Studies on the association between human milk insulin concentrations and infant weight or growth show conflicting results, but some studies indicate that higher insulin concentrations in the milk can promote infant weight gain. Circulating levels of insulin decrease acutely after exercise, but no prior study has investigated the acute effect of exercise on human milk insulin concentrations. Our aim was to determine the acute effects of two endurance exercise protocols on human milk insulin concentration in exclusively breastfeeding individuals.

Methods

In a randomised cross-over trial, 20 exclusively breastfeeding participants who were 6–12 weeks postpartum completed three conditions on separate days: (1) moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), (2) high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and (3) no activity (REST). Milk was collected before exercise/rest (at 07:00 h), immediately after exercise/rest (11:00 h), 1 h after exercise/rest (12:00 h), and 4 h after exercise/rest (15:00 h). We determined insulin concentrations in the milk using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and compared insulin concentrations after MICT and HIIT with REST using a linear mixed model with time-points and the interaction between time and condition as fixed factors.

Results

We detected insulin in all 240 samples, with an average concentration of 12.3 (SD 8.8) μIU/mL (range 3.2–57.2 μIU/mL). There was no statistically significant effect of exercise on insulin concentration, but a tendency of reduced concentrations 4 h after HIIT (p = 0.093). There was an overall effect of time at 11:00 h and 15:00 h. In the fasted sample obtained at 07:00 h, the concentration was 9.9 (SD 7.2) μIU/mL, whereas the concentration was 12.7 (SD 9.0) μIU/mL at 11:00 h (p = 0.009), and 15.0 (SD 11.7) μIU/mL at 15:00 h (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

One session of endurance exercise, either at moderate- or high intensity, had no statistically significant effect on human milk insulin concentration. Future research should determine the effect of regular exercise on insulin in human milk and potential impact for infant health outcomes.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05042414.
Measurement and spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of dietary diversity among Chinese residents
Authors: Qin Guangyuan , Li Miaomiao , Quan Shiwen
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the dietary diversity and to analyze the regional characteristics, differences, and evolutionary trends of dietary diversity among Chinese residents.

Methods

In this paper, the dietary diversity among Chinese residents was measured using the Shannon index based on the provincial-level food consumption data from 1995 to 2021. On this basis, the paper employs analysis methods such as kernel density estimation, spatial correlation test, and Dagum’s Gini coefficient to analyze the regional characteristics, differences, and trends of change in dietary diversity.

Results

During the study period, the dietary diversity among Chinese residents showed an increasing trend. Among the four major geographic regions, the dietary diversity was highest in the southern region, followed by the northern region, northwest region, and Qinghai-Tibet region. Among the three major economic regions, the dietary diversity was highest in the eastern region, followed by the central region and western region. There was a significant positive spatial correlation in the dietary diversity among Chinese residents, and both high-high agglomeration and low-low agglomeration phenomena were strengthened. In terms of the trend of regional differences, whether overall differences, interregional differences, or intraregional differences, they all showed a shrinking trend. However, interregional differences were the main source of overall differences in dietary diversity among Chinese residents.

Conclusion

The dietary diversity among Chinese residents shows an overall increasing trend, and there are regional differences in dietary diversity from the perspectives of economic and geographic regions, which have been narrowing over time.
Burden of NASH related liver cancer from 1990 to 2021 at the global, regional, and national levels
Authors: Li Shuang , Li Shuangjiang , Guan Linjing , Li Mingjuan , Zhao Jiahui , Wu Min , Li Qiuyun , Li Hui , Ouyang Guoqing , Pan Guangdong
Published: January 2025

Background

The global burden of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-related liver cancer (NRLC) is increasing, making NASH the fastest-growing cause of liver cancer worldwide. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of NRLC burden at the global, regional, and national levels, further categorized by age, sex, and sociodemographic index (SDI).

Method

Data on NRLC from the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors (GBD) study 2021 were downloaded at global, regional, and national levels. The numbers and age-standardized rates (ASRs) of incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were analyzed to quantify the global burden of NRLC. Additionally, percentage changes in ASRs were used to identify trends in NRLC from 1990 to 2021.

Results

Globally, both the number of cases and ASRs for NRLC increased between 1990 and 2021. In 2021, there were 42,291 new cases, 40,925 deaths, and 995,475 DALYs attributed to NRLC. East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia reported the highest absolute case numbers, while Western, Southern, and Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa exhibited the highest ASRs. From 1990 to 2021, Australasia, Southern Latin America, and High-income North America showed the most significant increases in NRLC incidence. Nationally, Mongolia, Gambia, and Mozambique exhibited the highest ASR in 2021.The greatest percentage increases in ASIR occurred in Australia, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand between 1990 and 2021. NRLC incidence rates were higher in men and increased with age, peaking at 80–89 years. Similar patterns were observed for NRLC-related deaths and DALYs. Regionally, ASRs initially declined but then increased as SDI rose. At the national level, ASRs consistently decreased with higher SDI.

Conclusion

This study highlights the substantial burden of NRLC at global, regional, and national levels. Males and older individuals bear a higher disease burden, and considerable variation exists across different regions and countries. These findings provide critical insights for formulating effective strategies to prevent and manage NRLC.
Association between the dietary inflammatory index and depressive symptoms in adults with metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study from the NHANES database
Authors: You Jinshun , Xia Shujie
Published: January 2025

Objective

The comorbidity of metabolic syndrome (MS) and depressive symptoms has emerged as a growing public health concern, contributing to a substantial global economic burden. The pathogenesis of this comorbidity is thought to be closely linked to inflammation. However, research examining the impact of the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) on depressive symptoms in adults with MS remains limited. This study aims to investigate the association between the DII and depressive symptoms in adults with MS, utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 7,553 participants aged 20 and older MS from six cycles of the NHANES (2007–2018). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire scores, and dietary information was gathered to calculate the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII). The association between DII scores and depressive symptoms in individuals with MS was evaluated through multivariable logistic regression analysis, adjusting for relevant covariates. Subgroup analyses and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were performed to explore this relationship further.

Results

Among the participants, 907 individuals (12.0%) were identified as having depressive symptoms. After adjusting for all covariates, a positive correlation was observed (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.04–1.14). After adjusting for all covariates, a positive association was observed between DII scores and depressive symptoms (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.04–1.14). Individuals in the highest tertile of DII scores had significantly higher odds of depressive symptoms compared to those in the lowest tertile (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.13–1.65). Subgroup analyses revealed that men were more likely to experience depressive symptoms among adults with MS. The RCS model revealed a nonlinear positive association between DII scores and depressive symptoms in these participants.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that the DII is positively correlated with an increased likelihood of depressive symptoms among adults with MS in the United States. These findings align with existing research and necessitate further validation through prospective cohort studies.
Detection of postpartum women anemia and its impact on their offspring in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: He Mengjie , Huang Lichun , Zou Yan , Xu Peiwei , Su Danting , Zhao Dong , Han Dan , Zhang Ronghua
Published: January 2025

Background

Information on the prevalence of postpartum women anemia is scarce in China, as well as its impact on their offspring. This study aimed to explore the influencing factors of anemia and the impact on the offspring.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 977 women within 2 years postpartum in 10 sites from 2016 to 2017 in Zhejiang Province, China. Information on demographics, nutrient supplementation and diet was collected. Whole blood hemoglobin, serum ferritin and transferrin receptor were assessed for all women and whole blood hemoglobin was assessed in offspring. The multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the determinants of anemia and the impact on the offspring by calculating odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (95%CI).

Results

Among 977 participants, 144 (14.74%) had anemia. Regression analysis showed that women intaking iron supplements during pregnancy (0.549, 0.350 ~ 0.860), and intaking sufficient red meat (0.647, 0.437 ~ 0.958) had lower rates of anemia, while women wo had anemia during pregnancy (2.754, 1.844 ~ 4.113 for mild anemia, and 3.815, 1.564 ~ 9.309 for moderate or severe anemia), had postpartum over 7 months (1.717, 1.112 ~ 2.650), with abnormal serum ferritin (11.931, 4.846 ~ 29.379) and excessive transferrin receptor levels (1.817, 1.050 ~ 3.145) had higher rates of anemia. Moreover, maternal anemia significantly increases the rate of anemia in offsprings, with ORs being 1.456 (0.994 ~ 2.133) for mild anemia, and 2.961 (1.242 ~ 7.058) for moderate or severe anemia, respectively.

Conclusion

The status of anemia in postpartum women was severe and its impact on the anemia of their offspring should be noted. It is highly necessary to strengthen the regular monitoring of hemoglobin levels in pregnant and postpartum women, as well as implement targeted dietary interventions and suggest to intake dietary supplements if necessary.
Association between vitamin D deficiency and major depression in patients with chronic kidney disease: a cohort study
Authors: Chen I-Wen , Wang Wei-Ting , Lai Yi-Chen , Chang Ying-Jen , Lin Yao-Tsung , Hung Kuo-Chuan
Published: January 2025

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have an elevated risk of both vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and depression. However, the relationship between VDD and the risk of depression in this population remains unclear.

Methods

Using the TriNetX network database (2010–2019), we conducted a propensity score-matched cohort study of CKD patients aged ≥50 years. Patients were categorized into VDD (≤20 ng/mL) and control (≥30 ng/mL) groups based on measurements within 3 months of CKD diagnosis. The primary outcome was the incidence of major depression within 1 year of follow-up.

Results

Among 17,955 matched pairs, VDD was associated with increased depression risk at 1 year (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.929; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.52–2.448; p < 0.0001). This association persisted through 3 years of follow-up. The relationship remained consistent across CKD stages, with similar risks in early (HR:1.977; 95% CI: 1.382–2.829) and CKD stage 3–5 (HR:1.981; 95% CI: 1.533–2.559). Males with VDD showed higher depression risk (HR: 2.264; 95% CI: 1.498–3.421) compared to females (HR:1.761; 95% CI: 1.307–2.374). Even vitamin D insufficiency (20–30 ng/mL) increased depression risk compared to normal levels (HR:1.667; 95% CI: 1.318–2.11). In patients with VDD, cerebrovascular disease, malnutrition, and ischemic heart disease are risk factors for depression.

Conclusion

VDD is independently associated with increased depression risk in patients with CKD, particularly in males. These findings suggest that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels might be important for mental health in patients with CKD, although randomized trials are needed to confirm whether supplementation can prevent depression in this population.
Case report: Tongue metastasis as an initial sign of clear cell renal cell carcinoma and its prognosis
Authors: Liu Shuo , Liu Hongyun , Weng Bowen , Hou Sichuan
Published: January 2025

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most prevalent and lethal subtype of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), characterized by a poor prognosis and a high likelihood of distant metastasis. Nonetheless, metastasis of ccRCC to the tongue remains rare. Diagnosing and planning treatment for patients who initially present with tongue metastasis can be particularly challenging, as few cases have been reported in the literature. We present a case of a 62-year-old man who presented with a painful lump on the right anterior border of his tongue. Histological examination revealed lobulated and nested epithelial cell clusters with moderate dysplasia and frequent mitotic figures within the lamina propria. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for vimentin, CD10, PAX-8, and epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), but negativity for PAX-2, calponin, S-100 protein, periodic acid-Schiff with diastase (PAS-D), P63, P40, and CK7, confirming the diagnosis of ccRCC metastasis to the tongue. After comprehensive evaluation and multidisciplinary team consultation, the patient underwent cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN), metastasectomy, and targeted therapy. According to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) Version 1.1, the patient maintained stable disease (SD) during systemic treatment. Unfortunately, treatment was discontinued due to adverse drug reactions, and the patient was transitioned to palliative care. His disease progressed to progressive disease (PD), and he ultimately succumbed to systemic infection, with a progression-free survival (PFS) of approximately 15 months. This case highlights the urgent need for improved therapeutic strategies to manage symptoms and prolong survival in patients with this rare metastatic presentation.
Case report: Musculoskeletal metastastic inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) treated by sequential ALK-TKI with longterm response
Authors: Cochin Thomas , Noal Sabine , Stefan Dinu , Bodet Damien , Rouger Jérémie , Dorbeau Marine , Neviere Zoé
Published: January 2025

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are known to be associated with rearrangements of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene. The treatment of this type of tumor includes systemic therapies such as chemotherapies or anti-inflammatories; in recent years, targeted anti-ALK therapies have emerged and became the standard of care in ALK rearranged patients. We aimed to present a rare case of musculoskeletal IMT with ALK rearrangement, characterized by metastatic evolution and enhanced responses to sequential treatment with all ALK-TKI. We have outlined a potential treatment pathway involving sequential ALK-TKI targeted therapies and successive local interventions to control the cancer.
Mass resection as a candidate treatment for uterine PEComas of uncertain malignant potential: a case report and literature review
Authors: Shi Haijuan , Yin Yan , Liang Shoujun , Liu Chuanzhong , Huang Yibao , Lu Bingfeng , Zhang Liying
Published: January 2025

Background

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumours (PEComas) occurring in the uterus are rare, with surgery being the most recommended primary treatment for malignant cases. This study aims to provide clinical guidance on the clinicopathological features and appropriate treatment options for patients with uterine PEComas of uncertain malignant potential.

Cases

This case series summarises the clinical courses of 13 patients diagnosed with uterine PEComas of uncertain malignant potential, including clinical and pathological data as well as their outcomes. We identified one case at our hospital, and data for the other 12 cases were extracted from the PubMed database. The 13 patients were aged 9–75 years, with tumour sizes ranging from 1 to 21 cm, and follow-up times ranging from 2 to 71 months. The most common signs and symptoms included abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) and abdominal pain. Most of the patients (11/13) were managed surgically without any chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Except for the patients who were lost to follow-up, 11 patients were free of any recurrence or metastasis at their last follow-up. Patients with group A tumours (abundant HMB45 expression) had a longer disease-free survival than those with group B tumours.

Conclusions

Surgery alone may be appropriate for uterine PEComas of uncertain malignant potential. Surgical treatment plans should consider the patient’s age, fertility requirements, and personal preferences. Mass resection is a viable treatment option for fertility preservation in reproductive-age patients.
Disease-free survival of 15 years after primary surgery in a patient with advanced high-grade serous ovarian cancer: a case report and literature review
Authors: Shi Yaoqi , Zhu Shuaiying , Shan Jiangjing , Xu Yuhong
Published: January 2025

Background

Ovarian cancer, particularly high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), is the most lethal gynecological tumor, with most patients experiencing recurrence within 5 years. Long-term survival in HGSOC patients with advanced stages is exceedingly rare.

Case summary

We report a case of advanced HGSOC with exceptional long-term recurrence-free survival following initial treatment. In June 2009, the patient underwent suboptimal cytoreductive surgery for stage IIIC ovarian cancer, including total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, appendectomy, and resection of mesenteric and peritoneal lesions. Postoperatively, residual lesions were observed in the mesenteries and para-aortic lymph nodes. Despite unfavorable prognostic factors (advanced stage, aggressive pathology, and incomplete resection), the patient showed remarkable chemosensitivity, remaining recurrence-free for 15 years.

Conclusion

The factors influencing long-term survival in HGSOC patients are not yet fully understood. We present this rare case to contribute data for further studies on long-term survival in advanced HGSOC.
Predicting survival rates: the power of prognostic nomograms in distal cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Jiangfeng , Shi Yuping , Jin Lihua , Yi Suhong , Chen Jinsuo , Wan Dadong , Ye Weixin , Chen Jingnan , Zhang Yajing , Jiang Yang , Duan Bensong , Dong Yuwei
Published: January 2025

Objective

The purpose of this research is to establish a prognostic nomogram for patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA).

Methods

We obtained clinical data from 2401 patients diagnosed with distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA) between 2010 and 2020 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. These patients were randomly assigned to either the training or validation group in a ratio of 6:4. 228 patients were enrolled from 9 hospitals in China as the external validation cohort. Univariate and multifactorial Cox regression analyses were conducted to ascertain prognostic factors and prognostic nomograms were developed utilizing LASSO logistic regression analysis. We used the calibration curve, and area under the curve to validate the nomograms. Decision curve analysis was used to evaluate the model and its clinical applicability.

Results

The findings demonstrated that Grade, M stages, Surgery, and Chemotherapy emerged as autonomous prognostic factors for the survival of individuals with dCCA. The developed nomograms exhibited satisfactory accuracy in forecasting 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival probabilities. Furthermore, the calibration curves indicated a strong concordance between the anticipated and observed outcomes. The AUC of the nomogram for 1-year, 3-year, 5 year overall survival (OS) predication were 0.809 (95%CI 78.5-83.3), 0.79 (95%CI 75.8-82.2) and 0.761 ((95%CI 72.3-80.0) in the training cohort, 0.79 (95%CI 75.9-82.0), 0.73 (95%CI 68.5-77.5), and 0.732(95%CI 68.0-78.3) in internal test cohort, 0.862 (95%CI 81.7-90.7),0.83 (95%CI 76.4-89.6),and 0.819(95%CI 74.6-89.2) in external test cohort.

Conclusion

The nomograms that have been suggested demonstrate strong predictive capability. These tools can assist medical professionals in assessing the prognosis of patients with dCCA and in devising more accurate treatment strategies for them.
Research progress of circRNAs in bone-related diseases
Authors: Hua Xianming , Yu Lingfeng , Zhu Hao , Zhu Yan , Fan Gentao , Zhou Guangxin
Published: January 2025

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that exist naturally in various eukaryotic organisms. The majority of circRNAs are produced through the splicing of exons, although there are a limited number that are generated through the circularization of introns. Studies have shown that circRNAs play an irreplaceable role in the pathogenesis, disease progression, diagnosis, and targeted therapy of motor system tumors (osteosarcoma), metabolic diseases (osteoporosis), and degenerative diseases (osteonecrosis of the femoral head, osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc degeneration). This review summarizes the advancements in circRNA detection techniques and the research progress of circRNAs in orthopedic diseases.
Methylation sites of human papillomavirus 16 as potential biomarkers for cervical cancer progression
Authors: Ji Sha , Ji Nannan
Published: January 2025

Objective

To investigate the methylation levels at 13 specific sites of the human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) L1 gene as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Methods

Samples were collected from the gynecological outpatient and inpatient departments of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region People’s Hospital. A total of 107 women participated in this study, including 54 with cervical cancer (32 Uygur, 22 Han) and 53 with cervical inflammation (32 Uygur, 21 Han). Methylation analysis was performed using pyrosequencing to quantitatively assess methylation levels at specified CpG sites within the HPV16 L1 gene.

Results

High methylation levels were predominantly observed at sites 5927, 5963 and 6367 in cervical cancer cells compared with inflammatory cells. Methylation patterns exhibited no significant differences between the Han and Uygur ethnic groups but correlated with viral load and age within each group. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses of these methylation sites indicated high diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing between high-grade lesions and less severe conditions.

Conclusions

Methylation of specific CpG sites in the HPV16 L1 gene holds promise as a biomarker for cervical cancer progression. The gene locus at position 6367 has important features in the methylation pattern of cervical cancer, and high accuracy shown in diagnosis make it a potential biomarker for early diagnosis of cervical cancer.
Clinical analysis of different intestinal reconstruction methods after primary cytoreductive surgery combined with rectal resection for advanced ovarian cancer
Authors: Wang Huimin , Li Xiaocen , Jiang Ying , Chen Jinxin , Cao Rong , Zhang Jingru
Published: January 2025

Objective

To compare different intestinal reconstruction methods after intestinal resection for advanced ovarian malignancy.

Methods

Retrospective data of patients with advanced ovarian malignancy were collected and then assigned into three groups: primary intestinal anastomosis, protective enterostomy and colostomy. General clinical characteristics, intraoperative findings and postoperative outcomes were compared between the three groups.

Results

A total of 530 cases were included for final analysis. The colostomy group had a lower serum albumin level, larger volume of ascites, higher likelihood of multiple intestinal resections and lower likelihood of rectal resection, lower peritoneal cancer index, more intraoperative blood loss, transfusions and infusions, lower likelihood of optimal cytoreductive surgery and shorter interval time to chemotherapy than the other two groups (p < 0.05). The primary intestinal anastomosis group exhibited a larger blood transfusion volume, higher incidence rates of anastomotic leak and electrolyte disturbance, and longer times to first flatus, first feeding and drain removal than the other two groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Colostomy can be adopted for advanced ovarian cancer patients with a large ascites volume, hypoproteinemia, large intraoperative blood and fluid loss volumes, multiple intestinal resections, anastomoses located below the peritoneal reflection, high PCI and suboptimal cytoreductive surgery. For patients with good intraoperative and postoperative outcomes, one anastomosis, an anastomosis located above the peritoneal reflection, low PCI or optimal cytoreductive surgery, intestinal anastomosis can be carried out to restore the normal physiological function of the intestine. For patients with a large volume of ascites (≥500 mL), multiple anastomoses or an anastomosis located below the peritoneal reflection, intestinal anastomosis combined with protective enterostomy has an advantage over intestinal anastomosis alone.
Effect of drug interactions with apixaban on clinical outcomes in cancer patients with venous thromboembolism
Authors: Svalastoga Marte , Larsen Trine-Lise , Brekke Jorunn , Enden Tone , Frøen Hege , Garresori Herish , Jacobsen Eva Marie , Porojnicu Alina Carmen , Ree Anne Hansen , Torfoss Dag , Velle Elin Osvik , Wik Hilde Skuterud , Ghanima Waleed , Sandset Per Morten , Dahm Anders Erik Astrup
Published: January 2025

Introduction

It is unclear how drug-interaction with apixaban influences recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) and bleedings in cancer patients.

Methods

A post-hoc analysis of a single-arm interventional clinical trial on apixaban treatment of cancer patients with VTE to investigate whether the occurrence of any of the endpoints could be associated with the concurrent use of an interacting drug. Drugs taken by the patients during the trial period were categorized as either increasing bleeding risk, increasing thrombosis risk, both or neither.

Results

298 patients were divided into groups based on whether they used no interacting drugs (controls, n=74), drugs increasing bleeding risk (n=55), drugs increasing thrombosis risk (n=8), or both (n=161). Odds ratios (OR) were calculated for recurrent VTE, clinically relevant non-major bleeding (CRNMB), and major bleeding during the 36-month follow-up period. Each patient took a median of 13 different drugs over the study period. 67% of the patients used drugs expected to both increase bleeding and thrombosis. The use of fluconazole appeared associated with CRNMB (OR 3.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.99-13), but not with major bleeding (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.06 - 4.8). Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs were not associated with CRNMB (OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.25-4.1) or major bleedings (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.14 - 3.6). Use of antiplatelet therapy was not associated with CRNMB (OR 0.75, 95% CI, 0.22 - 2.58) or major bleeding (OR 0.2, 95% CI, 0.02-1.6). There were no major bleedings in 23 patients using aprepitant nor in the 10 patients taking macrolides. We found no association between drugs and recurrent VTE, except that there were no recurrent VTE in 19 patients using bevacizumab.

Conclusions

Despite the high number of drugs taken that could potentially interact with apixaban, none were found to clearly influence clinical outcomes, except that fluconazole may increase the risk of CRNMB.
Investigation of vitamin D deficiency in girls with growth and development variations—a single center study
Authors: Huang Panwang , Zeng Beilei , Ren Feng , Zhou Yuan , Li Ye , Huang Yinyin , Liu Xingyu , Zhou Jiaxiu , Ma Yaping
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To understand the status of vitamin D deficiency in girls with growth and developmental variations, as well as the impact of COVID−19 on their vitamin D levels, and to provide reference for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency in children.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1,345 instances of girls with growth and developmental variations who visited our pediatric endocrinology department and completed vitamin D detection. A total of 279 girls with complete data were included in this study. Among them, 246 girls were classified into four groups based on different growth and developmental variations: early puberty group, menarche group, obesity group, short stature group, and 33 healthy girls served as the control group. Besides, the girls were divided into pre-epidemic and post-epidemic groups by the occurrence of the COVID-19 epidemic. Vitamin D were measured in all girls. The 25(OH)D <20 ng/ml was used as the standard for vitamin D deficiency.

Results

The levels of vitamin D in the early puberty group, menarche group, obesity group, short stature group, and control group were as follows: 20.23 ± 5.90 ng/ml, 17.85 ± 5.69 ng/ml, 21.31 ± 8.99 ng/ml, 27.90 ± 12.27 ng/ml, and 29.42 ± 12.65 ng/ml, respectively. The levels of vitamin D in the early puberty group, menarche group, and obesity group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The individual vitamin D deficiency rates in the aforementioned groups were 52.07%, 73.91%, 59.46%, 30.95%, and 30.30%, respectively. The vitamin D levels in the pre-epidemic and post-epidemic groups were 20.48 ± 6.22 ng/ml and 22.50 ± 9.74 ng/ml, respectively (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Girls with early puberty, menarche, and obesity have a certain deficiency of vitamin D levels, and appropriate vitamin D treatment should be provided clinically. Girls with short stature and healthy girls also have certain levels of vitamin D deficiency, and awareness of prevention should be strengthened.
Ziziphus jujube promotes fertility and pregnancy outcomes in Rat model of uterine adhesions
Authors: Asgharzadeh Fereshteh , Attarian Mahsa , Khazaei Majid , Al-Asady Abdulridha Mohammed , Mansoori Saeide , Naimi Hamideh , Eskandari Moein , Khorrami Azar , Nazari Seyedeh Elnaz , Aminian Akram , Farazastanian Marjaneh , Eshtad Elaheh , Avan Amir , Ryzhikov Mikhail , Hasanzadeh Malihe , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The therapeutic efficacy of oral administration of Ziziphus jujube in the context of uterine adhesion (UA) and its impact on pregnancy outcomes was investigated.

Methods

In a rat UA model, Z. jujube was evaluated for its ability to mitigate injury-induced uterine adhesion bands, uterine shortening, and enhance endometrial regeneration. The assessment included analysis of gland numbers, uterine endometrial thickness, and regulation of inflammatory cytokines. The antioxidant properties of Z. jujube were also studied through antioxidant enzyme activity in uterine tissue homogenates. Fibrotic changes were examined through histological Trichrome staining and analysis of pro-fibrotic factors.

Results

Treatment with Z. jujube resulted in a significant reduction in uterine tissue fibrosis, as evidenced by histological evaluation and reduced expression of fibrotic markers. The intervention demonstrated positive outcomes in embryonic development, pregnancy rates, and pregnancy outcomes. Z. jujube effectively inhibited the formation of extra-uterine adhesion bands to internal organs. No toxicity-related morphological changes were observed in vital organs of the Z. Jujube-treated group.

Discussion

The results collectively indicate that Z. jujube is a safe and potent natural product with anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties, highlighting its potential as a novel candidate for clinical studies targeting UA in patients.
Adverse events in different administration routes of amiodarone: a pharmacovigilance study based on the FDA adverse event reporting system
Authors: Yang Jingrong , You Mengfan , Wang Jingxin , Sun Rongfei , Han Lili , Liu Xiaonan , Niu Kaibin , Xing Kaidi , Sun Juanping , Su Wenge , Wang Yifei
Published: January 2025

Background

Arrhythmias are prevalent cardiac disorders with significant impacts on patient quality of life and mortality. Amiodarone, a class III antiarrhythmic agent, is widely used to manage both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias due to its efficacy in prolonging the cardiac action potential and its multiple antiarrhythmic properties. While clinical trials have highlighted the safety and efficacy of amiodarone, there is limited real-world data on adverse events (AEs) associated with different administration routes. This study aims to address this gap by utilizing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) to investigate the spectrum and timing of AEs related to amiodarone administration through disproportionality analysis and stratification methods.

Methods

Data from the FAERS database were analyzed using disproportionality analysis and reporting odds ratio (ROR) methods for comparative analysis, and the Weibull distribution for time-to-adverse-event analysis. The study examined data from 2004 through the first quarter of 2024 to analyze adverse event signals and the time of occurrence between intravenous and oral amiodarone administration.

Results

A total of 16,749 records of adverse reactions associated with amiodarone were identified. Among these, 2,412 events were related to intravenous amiodarone, and 8,220 events were related to oral amiodarone. The analysis revealed that cardiac and hepatic AEs were more common with intravenous administration, while pulmonary and thyroid-related AEs were more frequent with oral administration. Furthermore, the onset of adverse reactions varied significantly between the routes. The Weibull distribution analysis showed a median onset time of 5 days for intravenous administration compared to 74 days for oral administration. Both routes exhibited early failure-type signals, indicating a decreasing risk of AEs over time.

Conclusion

Amiodarone exhibits varying adverse drug reactions and onset times across different routes of administration. Clinicians should carefully consider these differences when selecting the administration route to balance the risks of adverse reactions with therapeutic benefits.
Trends in research on novel antidepressant treatments
Authors: Zelek-Molik Agnieszka , Litwa Ewa
Published: January 2025

Mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, are among the most common mental illnesses and a leading cause of disability worldwide. Key symptoms of these conditions include a depressed mood or anhedonia, sleep and psychomotor disturbances, changes in appetite or weight, and fatigue or loss of energy. Prolonged cognitive disturbances further impair the ability to think or concentrate and are often accompanied by persistent feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt. Collectively, these symptoms underscore depression as a serious, long-term global health issue. In addition, clinical studies indicate a growing number of patients experiencing difficulties in responding to treatment, even in the long term. This phenomenon poses significant challenges for healthcare professionals, families, and patients alike. As a result, there is an urgent need for therapies that are both rapid-acting and safe. This review aims to summarize the prevailing trends in research on novel antidepressants, emphasizing their diversity and multi-directional mechanisms of action. The development of rapid-acting drugs is increasingly focused on achieving high efficacy, particularly for treatment-resistant depression. Such advances offer the potential for rapid therapeutic effects without the prolonged and often tedious administration of older generation antidepressants. Findings from studies using animal models of depression continue to play a crucial role in predicting and designing new therapeutic strategies. These models remain indispensable for understanding the physiological effects of newly developed compounds, thereby guiding the creation of innovative treatments.
Detection of weeds in vegetables using image classification neural networks and image processing
Authors: Jin Huiping , Han Kang , Xia Hongting , Xu Bo , Jin Xiaojun
Published: January 2025

Weed management presents a major challenge to vegetable growth. Accurate identification of weeds is essential for automated weeding. However, the wide variety of weed types and their complex distribution creates difficulties in rapid and accurate weed detection. In this study, instead of directly applying deep learning to identify weeds, we first created grid cells on the input images. Image classification neural networks were utilized to identify the grid cells containing vegetables and exclude them from further analysis. Finally, image processing technology was employed to segment the non-vegetable grid images based on their color features. The background grid cells, which contained no green pixels, were identified, while the remaining cells were labeled as weed cells. EfficientNet, GoogLeNet, and ResNet models achieved overall accuracies of over 0.956 in identifying vegetables in the testing dataset, demonstrating exceptional identification performance. Among these models, the ResNet model exhibited the highest computational efficiency, with a classification time of 12.76 ms per image and a corresponding frame rate of 80.31 fps, satisfying the requirement for real-time weed detection. Effectively identifying vegetables and differentiating weeds from soil significantly reduces the complexity of weed detection and improves its accuracy.
Identifying vital spreaders in large-scale networks based on neighbor multilayer contributions
Authors: Zhu Weiwei , Meng Xuchen , Sheng Jiaye , Zhang Dayong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Identifying influential spreaders in complex networks is crucial for understanding information propagation and disease immunity. The spreading ability of a node has been commonly assessed through its neighbor information. However, current methods do not provide specific explanations for the role of neighbors or distinguish their individual contributions to the spread of information.

Methods

To address these limitations, we propose an efficient ranking algorithm that strictly distinguishes the contribution of each neighbor in information spreading. This method combines the count of common neighbors with the K-shell value of each node to produce its ranking. By integrating these two factors, our approach aims to offer a more precise measure of a node's influence within a network.

Results

Extensive experiments were conducted using Kendall’s rank correlation, monotonicity tests, and the Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) epidemic model on real-world networks. These tests demonstrated the effectiveness of our proposed algorithm in identifying influential spreaders accurately.

Discussion

Furthermore, computational complexity analysis indicates that our algorithm consumes less time compared to existing methods, suggesting it can be efficiently applied to large-scale networks.
Fluctuation in body composition and urine specific gravity of Turkish wrestlers in a top-level official wrestling competition
Authors: Donmez Ersel , Isik Ozkan , Baic Mario
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This research aimed to examine the fluctuations in body composition and Urine-Specific Gravity (USG) of elite wrestlers in a high-level official wrestling competition.

Method

Thirty-one wrestlers in the Türkiye Senior Greco-Romen Wrestling national team participated in this research. Wrestlers were divided into weight loss and non-weight loss groups, and changes in their body composition and USG were measured at three different times (beginning of the camp, weigh-in, and before the competition). The duration between the beginning of the camp and the competition weigh-in time was considered as a dehydration process and the duration between the competition weigh-in time and before the competition was regarded as a rehydration process. In the data analysis, 3 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA was used.

Results

It was determined that during the dehydration process of wrestlers who lost weight, there was a decrease of 4.02%, 2.50%, 14.62%, and 2.66% in body weight, FFM, FM, and TBW, whereas, during the rehydration process, there was a gain of 1.85%, 1.77%, 2.63%, and 1.87%, respectively. In addition, it was determined that wrestlers who lost weight had a 0.87% increase in USG during the dehydration process and a 0.41% decrease in the rehydration process. The results show that wrestlers cannot regain body weight and FM lost in the hydration fluctuation during a competition, but they can regain FFM, TBW, and USG. However, although it was determined that the wrestlers were statistically able to regain FFM, TBW, and USG, they could not return to the levels at the beginning of the camp.

Conclusion

It was determined that before a high-level official wrestling competition, wrestlers still preferred weight loss practices and it was determined that they were exposed to fluctuations in their body composition and USG. It is thought that this result may negatively affect the wrestlers’ health and competition performance during a high-level competition.