bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of immunostimulatory activities and active compounds from sequentially extracted fractions of rhizosphere fungal fermentation broth of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. rhizomes
Authors: Xie Yuxin , Lin Na , Song Pingping , Ni Xiangyan , Wang Yakun , Huang Peng , Han Zhili , Wang Dianlei , Sun Nianxia 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionPharmacological studies have shown that the rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (Compositae), commonly known as atractylodes macrocephala rhizome (AMR), can modulate immunity. Nevertheless, its resources have been largely depleted, and the pharmacological activity of artificial AMR is relatively modest. We hypothesized that the fermented crude extracts of the rhizosphere fungi of AMR would have similar immunomodulatory effects since the metabolites generated by these fungi are similar to those of the host plant given their long-term synergistic evolution.MethodsRhizosphere fungi were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of AMR and cultured to produce the secondary metabolites. These metabolites were then sequentially extracted with four solvents of increasing polarities (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and water). The in vitro immunomodulatory activities of the metabolite extracts were evaluated by cell proliferation capacity, cell phagocytosis activity, NO secretion capacity, cell morphology changes, and cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) secretion capacity in RAW264.7 macrophage cells. The biologically active secondary metabolites produced by the rhizosphere fungi were identified using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS).ResultsThree rhizosphere fungi, namely Penicillium (MK-1), Penicillium glaucoroseum (MN-1), and Purpureocillium lilalium (MG-1), were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of AMR. The assays for cell proliferation capacity, cell phagocytosis activity, and NO secretion capacity showed that all metabolite extracts exhibited in vitro immunomodulatory activities. The crude extracts of MG-1 exhibited the highest levels of in vitro immunomodulatory activities compared to the other extracts. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that the fermented extracts of MG-1 could facilitate immunological enhancement in vitro by altering the cellular morphology in the resting state and increasing the secretions of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Meanwhile, there was no observable endotoxin contamination. The metabolite profiling of MG-1 by UHPLC-Q-TOFMS revealed the presence of several compounds with established immunoreactive activities, including L-arginine, prostaglandin I2, deoxyguanosine, bestatin, and osthole.DiscussionThe present study demonstrated that the metabolite extracts of the rhizosphere fungi isolated from the rhizosphere soil of AMR exhibited in vitro immunoreactive activities and that these rhizosphere fungi could produce several bioactive metabolites. The crude extracts of the rhizosphere fungi may hence extend the medicinal utility of AMR and provide a basis for further development of natural plant-based immunomodulators.
The effect of educational intervention based on social media on mental health literacy of high school students in Ramhormoz city: study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nazari Abouzar , Askari Azadeh , Rahimi Foroushani Abbas , Garmaroudi Gholamreza 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundAdolescence is a critical period for developing and maintaining good habits for mental health and well-being. This is crucial for future mental health; as most mental health problems emerge during adolescence. Mental health literacy forms the foundation for preventing mental health issues, reducing stigma, and enhancing the effectiveness of help-seeking, particularly among adolescents.ObjectiveThis study aims to measure the effect of social media-based educational intervention on mental health literacy among male high school students in Ramhormoz city.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluated the effectiveness of a social media-based intervention, designed around the core components of The Guide training package. The study involves all high schools in Ramhormoz city using a stratified random sampling method. A total of 204 students are expected to participate. Measures of mental health literacy and attitudes towards seeking professional psychological help are evaluated at three time points: before the intervention (baseline), 3 months, and 6 months after the intervention.ResultsWe anticipate a significant improvement in the mental health literacy score of the intervention group compared to the control group at post-intervention and both follow-ups. Additionally, we expect a substantial enhancement in the attitude towards seeking professional psychological help score for the intervention group compared to the control group at post-intervention and 6-month follow-up, though not at the 3-month follow-up.ConclusionIn conclusion, this study will contribute valuable insights into the effectiveness of social media-based interventions in enhancing mental health literacy and attitudes towards seeking professional help among high school students. The results will guide future initiatives in mental health education and promotion.Clinical trialsThis study protocol is registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) under the registration number IRCT20230603058372N1, dated June 5, 2023. The study adheres to the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) guidelines, as outlined in Supplementary File S1.
The association between the Glutathione S-transferase polymorphisms and addiction to opioids and methamphetamine in the Iranian population
Authors: Eskandarion Mohammad Reza , Jafaripour Simin , Heidari Farid , Talebi Elham , Taleghani Maryam Rezakhani , Maserat Neda , Forutan Maryam , Ghorbani Raheb , Gharehdaghi Jaber , Shirkoohi Reza , Raoofian Reza 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionGlutathione S-transferase (GST) has the ability to detoxify the cellular environment of xenobiotic compounds and by-products of oxidative stress. The expression levels of GST genes and their polymorphisms are associated with various human diseases. Methamphetamine and opiate addiction also account for a significant proportion of SUDs in Iran. Considering the oxidative stress induced by morphine and methamphetamine and the potential of GST as a therapeutic option for SUD, we aimed to investigate the association of common genetic variations of two genes from GST family, GSTT1 and GSTM1, with addiction to morphine and METH in Iranian population.Material and methodsA total of 160 blood and urine samples were randomly collected from 50 opiums and 30 methamphetamine users and 80 healthy controls. All samples were processed by thin layer chromatography (TLC), high performance liquid chromatography, and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques to detect opium alkaloids (morphine, codeine, papaverine, noscapine, etc.), methamphetamine stimulants, and other legal and illegal drugs. The genotypes of GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms were determined by PCR. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS. This project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran.ResultsA statistically significant association was observed between the GSTM1 polymorphisms and morphine addiction under a recessive genetic model. The reference group consisted of pooled n/p and p/p genotypes, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.15, a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.05 to 4.39, and a P-value of 0.03. In contrast, there was no statistically significant association between genetic variations in the GSTT1 gene and morphine or methamphetamine addiction. The results revealed no significant association between GSTT1 and GSTM1 allele frequencies and morphine and methamphetamine addiction when divided into risk allele carriers and noncarriers.ConclusionThese findings suggest that the GSTM1 gene may be involved in the development of morphine addiction. However, further studies with larger sample sizes are required to verify these results and investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms.
“Internet+” pharmacy in psychiatric hospital amid COVID-19 and post-pandemic period: analysis and development
Authors: Xie Weiming , Wang Fei , Qian Yayun , Qiu Linghe , Zhou Qin , Shen Yuan , Wu Jianhong 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the differences in “Internet+” pharmacy prescriptions in psychiatric hospitals before and after the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It also seeks to examine changes in patient healthcare behaviors in the post-pandemic era and to identify the potential role of “Internet+” pharmacy in improving the current healthcare system.MethodsPrescriptions from the “Internet+” pharmacy at The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, collected between December 1, 2021, and November 30, 2023, were analyzed. The period was divided into four stages based on the COVID-19 pandemic’s progression in China. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted on various prescription-related factors, including patient information, prescription type, disease distribution, medication type, frequency of medication use, pharmacist review time, and instances of irrational medication use.ResultsA total of 2914 prescriptions were collected. The male-to-female ratio (MFR) varied significantly across different stages of the epidemic. In the pre-pandemic II period, females represented the highest proportion (66.10%, MFR 0.51), and individuals aged 18-39 made up the majority (56.70%) across all stages. The proportion of psycho-counseling prescriptions was highest in the pre-pandemic II period (76.74%), while the total number of psycho-counseling prescriptions was greatest during the epidemic, with 798 cases. A total of 38 diseases were involved, with depression accounting for the largest proportion (38.98%) at each stage, followed by the highest usage of antidepressants (49.60%). A total of 85 types of medications were used, with quetiapine representing the highest proportion before the epidemic (16.56%, 10.92%), while escitalopram accounted for the highest proportion after the epidemic (10.98%). The majority of patients (70.87%) took medication once daily. 42.23% of pharmacist review times were ≤1 minute, and the mean review time was longest in the post-pandemic period (6175.1 seconds). During the pre-pandemic and epidemic periods, the most common pharmacist review time occurred between 12:00 and 17:59 (41.46%), while in the post-pandemic period, the most common review time was between 18:00 and 23:59 (36.70%). The initial rate of irrational prescriptions was 37.85%. After manual review by pharmacists, the irrational prescription rate of Internet prescriptions decreased to 1.13%.ConclusionThe development of “Internet+” pharmacy has effectively addressed the medical needs of the relevant population and played a crucial role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Future advancements should focus on optimizing the allocation of healthcare resources and expanding innovative pharmacy services to broaden the developmental pathways of the ‘Internet+’ pharmacy ecosystem.
An atypical presentation of Wernicke-Korsakoff encephalopathy mimicking a left hemispheric stroke: case report
Authors: Butnariu Ioana , Anghel Daniela Nicoleta , Ciobanu Adela Magdalena , Cojocaru Florentina , Antonescu-Ghelmez Dana , Manea Maria Mirabela , Antonescu Florian 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundWernicke-Korsakoff encephalopathy is a metabolic disease caused by vitamin B1 deficiency that predominantly affects alcoholic patients. Its clinical picture is characterized mainly by altered mental status with memory deficits, ophthalmoparesis, and ataxia, although other clinical manifestations may also be present. The current case presents certain clinical difficulties regarding the diagnosis when confronting an atypical presentation of a classical disease in an acute setting when a decision to administer an intravenous thrombolytic agent needs to be made.Case presentationThis case involves a young male patient, with a history of chronic alcohol abuse, malnourished, and in poor general health, who presented with right-sided hemiparesis and language disturbance of acute onset, suggesting a left hemispheric stroke. The psychological examination was difficult due to a mix of confusion and aphasia, the latter being challenging to assess as the patient had a dismissive and highly deflective attitude toward the examiner. The initial cerebral computed tomography scan was unremarkable, in line with early imaging in ischemic stroke patients. On subsequent magnetic resonance imaging, lesions were observed in the medullo-pontine tegmentum, around the aqueduct of Sylvius, in the mamillary bodies, in the medial thalami, but also extensive bilateral cortical involvement in the frontal lobes. After receiving intravenous vitamin B1 treatment, the patient made a slow, but full, recovery, after eight weeks of hospitalization, and was subsequently transferred to a psychiatry clinic for treatment of his addiction.ConclusionAtypical Wernicke-Korsakoff encephalopathy can closely mimic stroke, usually akin to a vertebro-basilar lesion. Our case is the first report we are aware of Wernicke-Korsakoff encephalopathy feigning a left hemispheric stroke with aphasia and right hemiparesis. This has implications for the emergency medicine doctor, neurologist and the stroke specialist when considering an emergency differential diagnosis for a patient with an initial normal computed tomography scan, especially in regard to deciding acute therapy.
Effects of mind–body exercise on physical ability, mental health and quality of life in stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dong Jin , Chi Jinjin , Wang Desheng 
Published: December 2024

PurposeTo systematically evaluate the effects of mind–body exercise on physical ability, mental health and quality of life in stroke patients.MethodsAccording to the PRISMA statement, we searched Web of science, Pubmed, Embase, Sinomed, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases to collect randomized controlled trials on the effects of mind–body exercise on improving balance function, motor capacity, walking function, depression and quality of life in stroke patients. The search was conducted in January 2024. Review Manager5.3 was used for statistical analysis of the data.ResultsA total of 33 randomized controlled trials with a total of 1985 participants were included. The results of meta-analysis showed: Mind–body exercise had a significantly effect on balance ability [MD = 5.64, 95%CI = 4.17, 7.11, p &lt; 0.00001], upper limb motor ability [MD = 6.98, 95%CI = 1.96, 12.01, p = 0.006 &lt; 0.01], lower limb exercise capacity [MD = 3.55, 95% CI = 0.31, 6.78, p = 0.03 &lt; 0.05], exercise capacity [MD = 7.24, 95% CI = 4.36, 10.12, p &lt; 0.00001], depression [MD = −3.28, 95%CI = −3.86, −2.69, p &lt; 0.00001] and quality of life [MD = 10.62, 95%CI = 5.17, 16.06, p = 0.0001 &lt; 0.01]. However, mind–body exercise did not affect walking ability [MD = −1.82, 95%CI = −4.20, 0.57, p = 0.14 &gt; 0.05]. The results of subgroup analysis showed: Qigong (Baduanjin) exercise for more than four weeks, 6–10 times a week, 15–40 min each time can significantly improve balance function and quality of life in stroke patients.ConclusionMind–body exercise can be used as a supplement therapy to conventional rehabilitation therapy, which is not only low intensity, high safety, but also because it is not limited to the site, can be accepted by most people and accelerate the rehabilitation process of stroke.
Do different survey methods affect physicians’ stated work preferences? Findings from a discrete choice experiment in Eastern China
Authors: Wang Lizhu , Hu Dan , Zhu Jing 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesThis study aimed to examine the impact of online and offline survey methods on the participation of physicians in discrete choice experiment (DCE) surveys in Eastern China and explore their attitudes towards primary healthcare work.MethodsThe study involved active doctors practicing at secondary or county-level general hospitals in Eastern China, who completed a DCE questionnaire either online or offline. A mixed logit model was used to analyze the data, considering the relative importance of various job attributes.ResultsThis study found that online surveys save costs and offline surveys help increase the response rate for questionnaires. The validity rate for the completed questionnaires was high (&gt;90%) across both research methods. A mixed logit model simulation analysis revealed that compensation packages were the dominant influence on doctors’ choices. The online survey showed that doctors were more likely to choose to work in village health centers if their salary was flat (β = 1.330), while the offline survey showed that doctors were also more likely to choose village health centers when their salary was increased by 10% (β = 1.095). Work organization and public recognition also had a significant effect on doctors’ primary job choices (p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionThe study concluded that remuneration, work organization, and public recognition are key factors affecting physicians’ willingness to work in primary healthcare settings. For respondents with higher education and cognitive abilities, online surveys are recommended for DCE research.
Skin shade and relationships: how colourism pits Black and mixed Black-White women against each other
Authors: Phoenix Aisha , Craddock Nadia 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionColourism, prejudice where people are penalised the darker their skin and the further their features are from those associated with whiteness, occurs within and between racialised groups and can affect relationships. In this paper we examine the complex processes through which colourism positions Black and mixed Black-White women in contrasting positions in beauty and desirability hierarchies based on their skin shade.MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 Black (n = 18) or mixed Black-White (n = 9) adults (18 women, 9 men) living in Britain. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsAnalysis generated four main themes. First, colourist and gendered appearance ideals promoted by mainstream media serve to devalue and thus harm Black people, particularly Black women with dark skin. Second, these ideals can affect Black and mixed Black-White women’s experiences of the heterosexual relationship market where women with light skin are desired and those with darker skin often overlooked. Third, colourist appearance ideals and colourist-induced inequities in the heterosexual relationship market affect relationships between Black and mixed Black-White women of different skin shades. Fourth, fostering Black self-acceptance, celebrating natural Black beauty, and creating spaces for dialogue between women of different skin shades are seen as ways to address some aspects of colourism and/or their affects.DiscussionFindings highlight how colourism shapes desirability in gendered ways and how this affects the lives of Black and mixed Black-White women, influencing within-group social dynamics and relationships.
Perceived quality of padel users: adaptation and validation of the QPadel assessment tool
Authors: Fernández Martínez Nicolás , Gálvez-Ruiz Pablo , Gómez Chacón Ramón , Lara-Bocanegra Alejandro 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionPadel is currently an emerging sport that has experienced significant growth, enjoying popularity and widespread accessibility among the population. However, the padel context lacks a tool to assess the perceived quality of users in padel facilities and sports services. This study aims to adapt and validate an evaluation tool based on a literature review.MethodsThe sample included 402 users (298 men and 104 women, predominantly a frequency of play of 1–2 days a week for 1–2 h) from clubs across the Andalusian Autonomous Community (South of Spain). Psychometric properties were evaluated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, internal consistency through Cronbach's Alpha indicator and composite reliability, as well as convergent and discriminant validity, using the statistical software SPSS (v.22).ResultsThe findings demonstrated adequate psychometric properties in various analyses (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis), showing both internal consistency and validity (convergent and discriminant).DiscussionThe QPadel tool represents a significant contribution and advancement in the academic literature, with potential positive impacts on decision-making for improving padel facilities and services, as well as enhancing competitiveness.
A case of synovial sarcoma of the right mid-thigh and literature review
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Zhengyi , Guo Guoqiang , Jin Chunchun , Deng Meifang 
Published: December 2024

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is a rare and malignant mesenchymal neoplasm. We report a case of a 16-year-old Chinese female diagnosed with biphasic synovial sarcoma. The imaging features, surgical procedures and pathological results of the lesion were described in detail. Additionally, we conducted a review of the literature on synovial sarcoma of the thigh over the past 2 decades, identifying a total of 25 relevant case reports and summarizing the characteristics of these cases. Synovial sarcoma has a high degree of malignancy, with a high recurrence and metastasis rate, and a 5-year survival rate of 36%–76% and a 10-year survival rate of 20%–63%, so early detection of the lesion and preoperative differential diagnosis are of paramount importance in the treatment of patients.
Efecto de acidificantes en la dieta de gallinas sobre la postura, conversión alimenticia, peso de huevo y calidad de cascara
Authors: Perrotta Cristian Hernán , Boeris Valeria , Alvarez Carina , Viola Nair , Savoy Juan Pablo , Advinculo Sabina , Antruejo Alejandra 
Published: December 2024

En el sector avícola suele utilizarse antibióticos promotores de crecimiento en el alimento balanceado con el propósito de mejorar la productividad y disminuir la incidencia de enfermedades. Una alternativa a la utilización de éstos es la inclusión de ácidos orgánicos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la incorporación de acidificantes en el alimento de gallinas ponedoras sobre: porcentaje de postura, conversión alimenticia (CA), peso del huevo y calidad de cáscara. Se trabajó con 500 gallinas de la línea Lohmann Brown (Lohmann, 2015) de 60 semanas de vida. Se asignaron, aleatoriamente, trece grupos de aves, se constituyeron de esta manera el “Grupo Control” (GC) y los “grupos tratamiento” (GT). El GC tuvo 68 aves y cada uno de los grupos tratamiento 36 aves cada uno. Las condiciones sanitarias, de manejo y alimentación de las gallinas fue idéntica, excepto por el agregado de acidificantes en la dieta de las aves de los GT. Las aves del GC consumieron una dieta sin aditivos. Se registró la postura, el consumo de alimento balanceado, se tomaron muestras para determinar el peso del huevo, peso y espesor de la cáscara. Se concluyó que la incorporación de ácido cítrico con formiato de calcio en altas dosis en la dieta produce una mejora en la postura de 4,45 %. Que el agregado de ácido cítrico con propionato de calcio en altas dosis produce una mejora en la CA por docena de huevos en un 6,9% y de 10,6% en la CA por kilogramo de huevo, con una mejora del 6,8% en el peso de la cáscara. Que el agregado de ácido cítrico con propionato de calcio en bajas dosis produce un incremento del peso del huevo del 5,45%. Y que el espesor de la cáscara fue superior en el grupo control sin aditivos, pero la diferencia entre este y el acidificante que produjo la cáscara más delgada fue solo del 1,1%.