bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insulin increases type I collagen synthesis in hepatic stellate cells via α5β1 integrin
Authors: Dodig Milan , Li Min , Dasarathy Srinivasan , Kumarasamy Sivarajan , Kasumov Takhar , Najjar Sonia M. , McCullough Arthur J 
Published: December 2024

Aim: A direct effect of insulin on the synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins has been described in extrahepatic organs. The current study investigates the role of insulin in type 1 collagen production in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs).
Methods: Primary HSC cultures from wild-type mice and from L-SACC1 transgenic mice that exhibit hyperinsulinemia and resultant insulin resistance due to a defect in hepatic insulin clearance were used.
Results: Insulin significantly increased type I collagen synthesis in HSC primary cultures in the presence of high but not low glucose concentrations. Although HSCs contain a functional, insulin-activated PI3 kinase signaling pathway, insulin increases type I collagen synthesis by mechanisms independent of PI3 kinase. Insulin stimulated α5β1 integrin levels and phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase, a major signaling mediator in the integrin pathway. In addition, α5β1 integrin siRNA interference abolished insulin-mediated type I collagen synthesis by HSCs. L-SACC1 mice showed increased hepatic collagen deposition as compared to wild-type mice. HSCs isolated from L-SACC1 mice synthesize more type I collagen and α5β1 integrin than HSCs isolated from wild-type controls.
Conclusion: Insulin exerts a direct profibrotic impact on HSCs by an α5β1 integrin-mediated mechanism, independently of the PI3 kinase signaling pathway. Thus, chronic hyperinsulinemia may potentiate liver collagen deposition in insulin resistance states. This likely increases the risk of significant fibrosis burden in chronic liver disease associated with insulin resistance.
Risk factors and outcome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections (PABSI) in hematological patients: A single center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kessel Johanna , Bug Gesine , Steffen Björn , Vehreschild Maria J.G.T. , Weber Sarah , Scheich Sebastian , Lang Fabian , Serve Hubert , Herrmann Eva , Hogardt Michael 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Bloodstream infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PABSI) in hematological patients are associated with high morbidity and mortality. We investigated the epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes of PABSI at our center.
Methods:
All adult hematological patients with PABSI between January 2013 and July 2023 were included. Demographic and clinical characteristics, antimicrobial susceptibilities, antibiotic therapy, fluoroquinolone-prophylaxis, source of infection, and 30-day outcome were recorded. Descriptive statistics, tests for difference, and logistic regression models were performed.
Results: Fifty patients with PABSI were identified with a median age of 58.5 years (range 24-78). 37 patients (74%) had severe neutropenia, 20 (40%) received allogeneic HSCT, and 29 (58%) had acute leukemia. A total of 34 (68%) had received timely appropriate anti-pseudomonal antibiotic therapy. The most common presumed cause of PABSI was mucositis (n=16, 32%), followed by pneumonia (8, 16%) and skin and soft tissue infections (n=6, 12%). Empirical combination therapy was used in 16 (32%) patients, while targeted combination therapies were used in 27 (54%) patients. P. aeruginosa detection led to treatment change in 31 (62%) cases. The overall 30-day survival rate was 78% (n=39). Carbapenem-resistance occurred in 34% (n=17), and multidrug-resistance (MDR) in 20% (n=10). Prior antibiotic exposure was associated with resistance. Appropriate antibiotic therapy was associated with survival, whereas antibiotic resistance and organ infection were associated with a fatal outcome.
Conclusion:
Prior antibiotic exposure in hematological patients is associated with resistance in PABSI, a major risk factor for a fatal outcome. Antibiotic stewardship efforts should be intensified and fluoroquinolone prophylaxis needs to be reconsidered.
The effect of temperature on the functional response of Blattisocius mali (Acari: Blattisociidae) preying on the acarid mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae
Authors: Jena Manoj Kumar , Michalska Katarzyna , Studnicki Marcin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Climate warming significantly impacts soil temperature and moisture, leading to changes in the foraging activities of predators. The current research aimed to investigate the effect of temperature on the functional response of the predatory soil mite Blattisocius mali Oudemans preying on either eggs or males of the mould mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae Schrank. To analyze the functional response type, the generalized functional response equation of Real (1977) was used while the functional response parameters were determined using Roger (1972), Hassell (1978), and Cabello et al. (2007) models. Female adult B. mali displayed Type III and Type II functional responses when preying on eggs and males, respectively across all tested temperatures, ranging between 10oC and 35oC. The handling time of B. mali was longer at lower temperatures when preying on either eggs or males. In contrast, the potential for prey mortality, the attack rate, and the Functional Response Ratio were higher at higher temperatures indicating higher efficiency of B. mali at higher temperatures. The temperature strongly impacted predators’ efficiency, as accelerated predator action under warming increased prey consumption. However, functional response type did not change with warmer temperatures but varied with changing prey types from eggs to males.
Metformin suppresses hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma growth via reducing LncAROD
Authors: Liu Fang , Xie Huihui , Liu Meiyu , Wang Desheng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The prognosis of hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma(HSCC) remains poor due to its high aggressiveness and tendency for recurrence,therefore,enhancing treatment outcomes to improve patient survival rates is critical.The aim of this study was to explore the effects of metformin on FaDu cells and to investigate the molecular mechanisms.Metformin significantly inhibited cell viability and migration,and induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in FaDu cells.RNA sequencing analysis of metformin-treated cells revealed differential expression of genes and possibly related pathways, which were verified by RT-qPCR, and prognostic survival analyses were performed for related genes.Data from the RNA-seq analysis indicated that metformin altered the expression of genes involved in glycolysis, the TCA cycle, DNA replication, RNA transport, protein binding, and ferroptosis.Bioinformatics survival analysis showed that LncAROD was highly expressed in HSCC, and patients with elevated LncAROD expression exhibited a poor prognosis.Furthermore, the in vivo effects of metformin were evaluated in mice, revealing that metformin inhibited tumor growth without causing significant hepatotoxicity.In conclusion, our results demonstrate that metformin modulates multiple processes related to tumor growth and progression in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, including the reduction of LncAROD expression and inhibition of tumor progression, thereby providing a novel approach for the clinical treatment of HSCC.
Environmental and societal implications of transitioning to sustainable diets
Authors: Rodés-Bachs Clàudia , Sampedro Jon , de Ven Dirk-Jan van , Horowitz Russell , Pardo Guillermo , Zhao Xin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The global food system plays a crucial role in shaping societal and environmental futures, with dietary shifts having broad implications across multiple sectors. While plant-based and non-ruminant proteins are gaining popularity in wealthier nations, regional adoption of sustainable diets remains uncertain and highly variable. Here, we explore the benefits of increasing plant-based protein intake or reducing ruminant livestock consumption across global and regional scenarios. Using an Integrated Assessment Model, we find that sustainable diet transitions enhance regional protein and fat intake, improve dietary energy adequacy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution-related mortality, water scarcity, and food costs. These changes also support re/afforestation and biodiversity gains, though some regions may face trade-offs. Notably, regional efforts yield faster benefits compared to uniform global targets. Our results emphasize the need for effective social policies to promote a shift toward plant-based and low-ruminant diets, demonstrating their nutritional and environmental advantages.
Digital Nudging and its Impact on Healthcare Work: Improving Clinical Documentation with Mobile Applications
Authors: Jóhannsdóttir Lilja Guðrún , Snorradóttir Anna Halldóra N. , Tracz Adeline , Óskarsdóttir María , Islind Anna Sigríður 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Good clinical documentation is important for patient safety, communication between healthcare professionals, legal protection, quality assurance, reimbursement, and research. In this study, we conduct a two-phased field study on a mobile application designed to support healthcare professionals in improving clinical documentation directly into Electronic Health Records (EHRs). First, we introduced the application to four hospital wards and conducted interviews, user testing, usability, and user experience testing. Second, we measured the application’s usage over three months and compared it to the three months before implementation. The results show that this mobile application significantly saves time for healthcare professionals and supports their clinical documentation practices. We also evaluate if embedding digital nudging into the design of the mobile application impacts healthcare professionals and their established workflows and routines.
A method for land-based nursery cultivation of Undaria pinnatifida seedlings using outdoor tanks
Authors: Kajiwara Keitaro , Niwa Kyosuke 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In recent years, grazing damage caused by herbivorous fish has been confirmed at various Japanese seaweed cultivation sites. In the case of Undaria pinnatifida, grazing damage during the nursery cultivation period in the sea is considered one of the main factors that decreases the production of marine crops. To prevent grazing damage, we examined whether it is possible to produce Undaria seedlings (juvenile sporophytes) through nursery cultivation on land. Although the growth of the juvenile sporophytes grown by nursery cultivation in an outdoor tank was slower than that of those grown by nursery cultivation in the sea, the juvenile sporophytes ultimately grew to 5.32 cm in mean total length. Furthermore, we compared the growth of these sporophytes during the main cultivation period in the sea with that of the seedlings produced by nursery cultivation in both the outdoor tank and the sea. The total length and blade width of the sporophytes from seedlings produced in an outdoor tank on land were smaller than those of the sporophytes derived from seedlings produced in the sea until February 6, 2024, and the total weight of the former was also smaller than that of the latter until February 26. However, the results of further cultivation indicated that there was no difference in growth between the sporophytes from both seedlings produced by the two methods. This result demonstrates that the Undaria seedlings used for cultivation can be produced by nursery cultivation using outdoor tanks on land to avoid grazing damage caused by herbivorous fish.
Anxiety, depression, and their relationship with marital satisfaction in Mexican pregnant women living with HIV
Authors: Meingüer-Cuevas Mario de Jesús , Avila-García Miroslava , Sánchez-Bravo Claudia , Figueroa-Damián Ricardo , Plazola-Camacho Noemí Guadalupe , Mancilla-Ramírez Javier , Meza-Rodríguez María del Pilar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
In Mexico, the National Survey of Psychiatric Epidemiology (ENEP) in 2012, refers that 9.2% of the general population suffered an affective disorder at some point in life, the highest frequency was observed in women (10.4%) while in men (5.4%). In pregnancy, the prevalence of depression is higher compared to the general population (22 to 37%). Marital satisfaction during pregnancy may experience fluctuations due to such psycho-emotional conditions, at the same time, the physical and hormonal changes of the woman, as well as the alteration in the dynamics of the relationship with the partner suppose factors that violate the well-being and marital satisfaction, putting at risk the stability of the couple relationship.
Methods
Cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study that included pregnant women with HIV who presented traits of anxiety and depression. A psychometric battery was applied consisting of: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II), and the Marital Satisfaction Scale (MSS Spanish version).
Results
60 patients were recruited and divided into 2 groups (HIV + and HIV-). Anxiety and depression levels were similar in both groups (p > 0.05) but HIV + patients showed lower marital satisfaction (p = 0.051) related to the increase of depressive traits (ρ= -0.33, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
HIV status during pregnancy may increase the possibility of presenting trait/state anxiety traits and depression, a condition related to major marital dissatisfaction.
Clinical Trial Number:
2017-3-128.
The Complex Relationship Between IQ and ADHD: Insights from Behaviors, Cognition, Brain and impairment in 5,138 Children with ADHD
Authors: Liu Ningning , Jia Gaoding , Wang Yinshan , Mou Zelin , Bau Altansumber , Li Haimei , Wang Yufeng , Qian Qiujin , Liu Lu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Intelligence quotient (IQ) has traditionally been considered a protective factor against attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, recent findings suggest a more complex relationship. This study aimed to elucidate the nuanced associations between IQ and ADHD. We leveraged a high-quality, multi-dimensional dataset encompassing behavioural, cognitive, and neuroimaging measures from a large ADHD cohort to investigate these relationships comprehensively.
Methods
We conducted a study with 5,138 children, aged 6–16 years, who have been professionally diagnosed with ADHD and have a wide range of IQ levels. General Linear Models were used to fit the relationship between IQ [Full-Scale IQ (FSIQ), Verbal IQ (VIQ), and Performance IQ (PIQ)] and ADHD core symptoms [total scores (TO), inattention (IA), hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI)] while considering sex and age as covariates. Furthermore, we examined if the complex associations between IQ and ADHD symptoms could be validated in executive functions and brain structure associated with ADHD. Finally, Latent class analysis was used to identify IQ and symptomatic characteristics in profiles of functional impairment of ADHD.
Results
Consistent with previous research, our study demonstrated a linear negative correlation between FSIQ and ADHD core symptoms. However, PIQ exhibited an inverted U-shaped relationship with HI scores, peaking at a PIQ of 103. These findings were partially corroborated in the relationships between IQ and executive functions, as well as IQ and brain surface area. Latent profile analysis identified three distinct ADHD profiles: Mild Impairment, Severe Academic Deficit, and Social-Academic Deficit. Notably, while higher IQ was associated with less impairment in academic performance, it did not consistently predict social functional impairment. Paradoxically, the group with the least overall impairment exhibited the highest levels of hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms.
Conclusion
This study elucidates the intricate relationship between IQ and ADHD, revealing that elevated Performance IQ is associated with increased hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms, while higher symptom levels may not always indicate worse outcomes.
Global, regional and national burden of tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer attributable to ambient particulate matter pollution. 1990-2021: An analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Lu Jianguo , Zhao Xiangmei , Gan Shaoyin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
The ambient particulate matter pollution may play a critical role in the initiation and development of tracheal, bronchus, and lung (TBL) cancer. Up to now, far too little attention has been paid to TBL cancer attributable to ambient particulate matter pollution. This study aims to assess the disease burden of TBL cancer attributable to ambient particulate matter pollution in global, regional and national from 1990 to 2021 to update the epidemiology data of this disease.
Methods
Leveraging data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study, we analyzed the worldwide burden of TBL cancer resulting from ambient particulate matter pollution using indices including disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), age-standardised rate of DALYs (ASDR). This burden was further segmented based on variables including geographical location, and socio-demographic index (SDI), age and sex.
Results
The ASDR per 100,000 population of TBL cancer attributable to ambient particulate matter pollution increased by 0.2%[95% UI 0.1 to 0.3] to 79.6[95% UI 49.0 to 111.2] from 1990 to 2021 Globally. Middle-aged and elderly individuals accounted for the majority of the disease burden, with the highest value at the 65–69 years. Most of the disease burden was concentrated in countries with High-middle SDI. There was a positive correlation between ASDR of TBL cancer due to particulate matter pollution and the SDI(ρ = 0.66, p < 0.001). East Asia and Central Europe exhibited higher observed values than the fitted curves, while such as Austraiasia South Asia and Western Sub-Saharan Africa had a lower observed values than the fitted curves. Decomposition analysis showed that population aging and growth were the two major drivers of the increase in DALYs.
Conclusions
The disease burden of TBL cancer attributable to ambient particulate matter pollution has increased, especially in regions and countries with High-middle SDI.
Irradiation with cold atmospheric direct plasma: an innovative approach to treating murine cutaneous wounds
Authors: Ahmed Baida Muhsen , Al-Sharqi Sahar A. H. , Khalaf Madyan Ahmed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Cold atmospheric direct plasma (CADP), an ionized gas at ambient temperature, represents a promising approach to enhancing tissue regeneration. A laboratory-based study was conducted to investigate the effects of medical CADP on the reparative potential of full-thickness acute skin wounds in murine models. For the in vivo investigations, two full-thickness dermal injuries were induced in each murine subject, each with a diameter of approximately 8 mm (n = 20). We employed a floating electrode within a CADP system that generates atmospheric pressure air plasma, characterized by a plasma temperature ranging from 36 to 38°C. The dermal wounds received three plasma treatments, administered twice daily for irradiation durations of 5, 15, and 25 seconds. These wounds were subsequently evaluated at intervals of 2, 4, 6, 8, and 11 days post-wounding through histological examination and gene expression analysis. On the eleventh day, the wound healing rates were recorded at 34.80% for the control group, while the plasma-treated groups achieved rates of 56.62%, 84.97%, and 97.82%, respectively. Histological examination revealed that plasma-treatment promotes the development of epidermal keratin and granular strata, along with the formation of hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Gene expression analysis indicates increased levels of growth factors and a decrease in white blood cell counts. CADP therapeutic intervention has significantly enhanced the healing efficacy of acute dermatological lesions without any noticeable adverse effects or the simultaneous activation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. These findings underscore the benefits of employing plasma applications for wound management in clinical settings.
Indications and Outcomes of Endoscopic Gastric Pouch Plications After Bariatric Surgery: An Analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) Database
Authors: Wills Mélissa V. , Barajas-Gamboa Juan S. , Romero-Velez Gustavo , Strong Andrew , Navarrete Salvador , Corcelles Ricard , Abril Carlos , Pantoja Juan Pablo , Guerron Alfredo D. , Rodriguez John , Kroh Matthew , Dang Jerry 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Endoscopic gastric pouch plications (EGPP) have emerged as a novel approach for managing weight-related issues and postoperative complications following bariatric surgery. However, safety data for these revisions remains limited.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the 30-day rate of serious complications and mortality associated with EGPP using the MBSAQIP database.
Setting: Hospital
Methods: A retrospective analysis of the MBSAQIP database from 2020 to 2022 was conducted, focusing on patients undergoing EGPP. The primary outcomes were 30-day serious complications and mortality.
Results: The study included 1,474 patients. Weight recurrence (71.9%) was the most common indication for EGPP, followed by inadequate weight loss (15.1%), dumping syndrome (5.5%), reflux (4.1%), gastrointestinal tract fistula (1.0%), and others (0.9%). The mean operative time was 41.2 ± 35.2 minutes, with a mean hospital stay of 0.4 ± 0.7 days. Postoperative complications included 30-day readmissions (3.1%), serious complications (3.3%), 30-day interventions (2.5%), bleeding (0.8%), and reoperations (0.4%). The mortality rate was 0%. Multivariable analysis showed GERD as an independent predictor of serious complications (OR 1.7, 95% CI 0.98 to 3.2, p=0.05) when adjusting for various factors.
Conclusion: EGPP is an uncommon procedure with only 1,474 cases reported, primarily indicated for weight recurrence. It appears to be a relatively safe alternative to surgical revision. However, further research is needed to assess its efficacy and compare it to corresponding surgical revisions.
Design Concept and Kinematic Analysis of a Compliant Anatomical Palm Mechanism for Bio-Inspired Robotic Hand Design
Authors: Chang Ivy , Lee Kok-Meng , Liu Yuyang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This paper explores the often-overlooked importance of the palm in robotic hand design, where traditional approaches emphasize finger dexterity and multi-motor manipulation to achieve diverse degrees of freedom (DOF) for grasping. The palm’s ability to conform to objects while grasping is unique due to its versatility to create different shapes. However, replicating this complex folding, bulging, and contouring of the human palm in a mechanical equivalent presents significant challenges. To address this, the paper introduces the concept of a Compliant Anatomical Palmar Mechanism (CAPM), using a combined experimental and numerical approach to model kinematic characteristics of a hybrid rigid/compliant system. The study analyzes how palm movement can enhance grasping performance capabilities. Using data from human hand experiments and finite element analysis (FEA) simulations, the studies predict how palm folding and bulging affect grasping force distribution. This improved modeling allows for more effective robotic design by utilizing palm functions to achieve a broader force distribution in power grasps. A CAPM prototype, integrated into a robotic hand testbed, has been developed to validate the concept and evaluate its effectiveness in grasping by maintaining a stable grasp of a spherical object under an increasing torsional load.