bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deep brain stimulation combined with morroniside promotes neural plasticity and motor functional recovery after ischemic stroke
Authors: Chen Yanxi , Xu Zhidong , Ma Yifu , Liu Tingting , Tian Xin , Zhu Zixin , Zheng Wenrong , Wang Yufeng , Zheng Ruifang , Xing Jianguo , Wang Wen , Sun Fangling 
Published: December 2024

Background and ObjectiveUntil now, there has been an unmet need for treatments promoting chronic-phase post-stroke functional recovery. We previously found that morroniside promoted endogenous neurogenesis in ischemic stroke, but its therapeutic window was limited to the first 48 h. Here, we aimed to explore whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) combined with morroniside could enhance neurogenesis in rats subjected to focal ischemic stroke and contributes to functional recovery.MethodsBeginning 2 weeks after the endothelin-1-induced stroke, rats were administered DBS of lateral cerebellar nucleus consecutively for 14 days, followed by morroniside for 7 consecutive days post-stimulation. Behavioral tests were used for assessing motor function. Local field potentials were recorded to evaluate neuronal excitability. Nissl staining was used to assess infarct volume. Immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting were carried out to uncover the stroke recovery mechanisms of DBS combined with morroniside treatment.ResultsThe results showed that this combined treatment improved behavioral outcomes, enhanced cortical local field potentials, and diminished infarct volumes at 35 days post-stroke. Moreover, it notably amplified neurogenic responses post-stroke, evidenced by the proliferation of BrdU/SOX2 and BrdU/DCX in the subventricular zone, and their subsequent differentiation into BrdU/NeuN and BrdU/VgulT1 in the ischemic penumbra. Moreover, the combined treatment also elevated the amount of BrdU/Olig2 and the level of axonal sprouting-related proteins in the perilesional cortex.ConclusionOur results demonstrated that the combined treatment extended the neurorestorative efficacy of morroniside, reduced infarct size, enhanced neuronal excitability and accelerated sensorimotor function recovery. This therapeutic approach may emerge as a potential clinical intervention for chronic ischemic stroke.
First-time report on compound isolation from two Colocasia species: vegetable-derived bioactive metabolites and their medicinal potential
Authors: Alam Safaet , Richi Fahmida Tasnim , Emon Nazim Uddin , Chowdhury Abu Asad , Hasan Choudhury Mahmood , Haque Mohammad Rashedul 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundColocasia affinis Schott and Colocasia gigantea Hook.f. are two commonly found vegetable species of the genus Colocasia, found mainly in the Asian region.ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to isolate bioactive phytochemicals from C. affinis and C. gigantea and elucidate their structure employing the NMR technique followed by bioactivity evaluation.MethodologyColumn chromatography was utilized to isolate phytochemicals, followed by NMR analysis for characterization. An in vivo analgesic test was performed through an acetic acid-induced writhing test, an anti-inflammatory test was performed through a formalin-induced licking test, and an antidiarrheal test was performed through a castor oil-induced diarrhea model. The in vitro antimicrobial test was executed through the disc diffusion method. Computer-aided simulation was also implemented to validate the wet laboratory results.ResultsSix compounds from C. affinis and C. gigantea were isolated and characterized from the dichloromethane (DCM)-soluble fractions of the methanolic extracts of these two species. Three of the compounds were from C. gigantea and proposed as penduletin (C1), a mixture of α-amyrin (C2a), β-amyrin (C2b), and monoglyceride of stearic acid (C3), while the remaining three compounds were from C. affinis and proposed as penduletin (C4) (which was also isolated from C. gigantea), 7,8-(3″,3″-dimethyl-pyrano)-4′-hydroxy flavonol (C5), and lastly a mixture of 7,8-(3″,3″-dimethyl-pyrano)-4′-hydroxy flavonol (C5) and 4′,7,8-trihydroxy flavonol (C6). These compounds showed promising zones of inhibition against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. In the antidiarrheal test, C5 demonstrated the highest reduction in castor oil-induced diarrhea (44.44%) at a dose of 20 mg/kg compared to loperamide’s 77.78% reduction. However, the analgesic assessment showed a noteworthy inhibition of acetic acid-induced writhing by C1/C4 and C2 (56.52%) at a dose of 20 mg/kg compared to the 76.09% by diclofenac sodium. In comparison, C2 showed pronounced anti-inflammatory action by 68.15% and 52.06% reduction, respectively, in the early and later phases compared to the ibuprofen’s outcomes of 73.54% and 74.68%. Plausible targets such as dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) for antimicrobial, kappa opioid receptor (KOR) for antidiarrheal, and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) for anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities showed a noteworthy binding affinity with isolated compounds, and ADME/T studies displayed these phytochemicals’ drug-likeness profiles.ConclusionTo the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on compound isolation from these plants, which demands further extensive research for more absolute findings.
Calcium sensing receptor regulate claudin-14 via PKA-STAT3 pathway in rat model of nephrolithiasis
Authors: Luo Peiyue , Chen Tao , Zheng Liying , Zou Junrong , Zou Jun , Li Wei , Chen Qi , Cheng Le , Qian Biao 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe calcium-sensitive receptor (CaSR) has been identified as a key factor in the formation of kidney stones. A substantial body of research has illuminated the function of CaSR in stone formation with respect to oxidative stress, epithelial injury, crystal adhesion, and stone-associated proteins. Nevertheless, as a pivotal molecule in renal calcium excretion, its pathway that contributes to stone formation by regulating calcium supersaturation remains underexplored.MethodsAn in vitro rat calcium oxalate kidney stone model was established through the co-cultivation of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) with NRK-52E cells, while an in vivo model was constructed using the ethylene glycol method. Subsequently, the level of the CaSR-claudin-14 pathway was determined. To further elucidate the molecular pathway of CaSR-mediated regulation of claudin-14, drugs were selectively added to the in vitro and ex vivo kidney stone models, and the expression of claudin-14 and the levels of stone formation were detected. Moreover, the direct regulation of claudin-14 by CaSR with STAT3 serving as a transcription factor was examined via the dual luciferase assay. Eventually, a Cldn-14 knockout rat model and a model of kidney stone induction by ethylene glycol were generated using CRISPR-Cas9 technology to further clarify the role of claudin-14 in the CaSR-regulated formation of kidney stones.ResultsIn vitro and in vivo observations revealed that calcium oxalate induces high expression of CaSR-claudin-14. Specifically, CaSR regulates claudin-14 expression through phosphorylation modification of STAT3 via protein kinase A (PKA). In vitro, the intervention of PKA and STAT3 reversed the elevated claudin-14 levels and stone formation induced by CaSR. Finally, we generated cldn-14 knockout rats using CRISPR-Cas9 technology and observed that ethylene glycol still induced stone formation in these animals. Nevertheless, the specific activation or inhibition of CaSR demonstrated no notable impact on stone formation.ConclusionThe results of our study indicate that calcium oxalate crystals induce the activation of the pro-stone pathway of CaSR. That is, activated CaSR regulates claudin-14 levels via the PKA-STAT3 pathway, which further promotes calcium salt stone formation. The role of CaSR in the regulation of stone homeostasis is further enriched.
Protective effect of Huanglian Pingwei San on DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice through amelioration of the inflammatory response and oxidative stress
Authors: Dong Gengting , Pang Xiaoyan , Wang Ximin , Peng Lin , Xiao Qili , Guo Shunan , Dai Weibo 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionUlcerative colitis (UC) results in the breakdown of the mucosal barrier caused by persistent inflammation and oxidative stress. Huanglian Pingwei San (HLPWS) is a commonly prescribed traditional Chinese medicine for treating colitis, but the precise mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to systematically investigate the protective effect of HLPWS on UC mice and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved.MaterialsUC mouse model was established in C57BL/6 mice via 2.25% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). The chemical composition of HLPWS was examined through UPLC/MS Q-TOF analysis. The efficacy of HLPWS in treating UC was assessed. A TUNEL assay was used to detect apoptotic cells. An ELISA was used to evaluate the levels of inflammatory cytokines in colon tissues and serum. The percentages of Treg and Th17 cells were measured via flow cytometry. The protein expression in the colonic tissue was validated via immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blotting.ResultsHLPWS significantly improved UC symptoms and colon tissue histology in mice. The structure and function of the intestinal barrier were restored by HLPWS treatment, as shown by increased DAO content, reduced levels of FITC-dextran, and increased protein expression of ZO-1, occludin, claudin, and MUC2. HLPWS dose-dependently decreased the number of apoptotic cells by inhibiting P53, P21, P27, cleaved caspase 3, and p-H2AX expression. HLPWS also reduced abnormal oxidative stress by reducing Keap1 expression and increasing Nrf2 and HO-1 levels. Furthermore, HLPWS rebalanced the Treg/Th17 ratio to alleviated inflammatory reactions in UC mice.ConclusionThese findings suggest that HLPWS alleviated colonic intestinal barrier dysfunction in UC mice by reducing oxidative stress and restoring immune balance. This study underscores the potential therapeutic benefits of HLPWS and highlights its potential as a future pharmaceutical candidate for UC treatment.
Genotypic variability in cotton's transpiration response under progressive soil drying
Authors: Broughton Katrina J. , Bate Eleanor L. , Cutler Corey W. , Allen Christopher N. , Thompson Alan J. E. , Conaty Warren C. 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionCrop yields in food and fibre production systems throughout the world are significantly limited by soil water deficits. Identifying water conservation mechanisms within existing genotypes is pivotal in developing varieties with improved performance in water-limited conditions. The objective of this study was to screen Australian germplasm for variability in the transpiration response to progressive soil drying using a glasshouse dry-down experiment. It tests the hypothesis that water conservation traits may provide tolerance to water stress, particularly when combined with other drought stress traits. MethodsThree glasshouse experiments were conducted to identify whether there are differences in the fraction of transpirable soil water (FTSW) threshold values for transpiration decline among six cotton genotypes. We also assessed whether genotype dependent responses to progressive soil drying are evident from leaf-level physiology, by measurement of gas exchange parameters. ResultsSignificant variation in the FTSW threshold for transpiration decline between six genotypes was found, ranging from 0.13 to 0.29. Genotypic variation in the response to soil drying was also observed from leaf level physiology, with reductions in stomatal conductance and photosynthetic rate coinciding with when the FTSW threshold was reached. DiscussionGenotypes that limit transpiration at high FTSW can conserve water earlier in the season to maintain productivity during extended dry periods. Therefore, these genotypes may provide physiological traits that improve productivity in water-limited environments. This research is important as rainfall and water resources for irrigated agriculture are predicted to decline. The development of drought tolerant germplasm for the Australian cotton industry will be beneficial in the projected increasingly frequent limited water environments resulting from a changing climate.
Improving soil carbon sequestration stability in Siraitia grosvenorii farmland through co-application of rice straw and its biochar
Authors: Liu Xuehui , Yang Yu , Xie Yaqi , Zeng Yicheng , Li Ke , Hu Lening 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionSusbtantial agricultural wastes are produced globally which need urgent management policies. To explore the effective utilization of agricultural waste in enhancing soil quality and carbon sequestration capacity, straw and its biochar can be applied as soil ameliorants.MethodsThis study was designed to investigate the impact of different return-to-field methods of rice straw on the transformation between different carbon components in the soil of Siraitia grosvenorii fields. We hypothesize that rice straw and its biochar, as soil amendments, can influence the transformation and cycling of different carbon components in the soil of S. grosvenorii fields through various return-to-field methods. Rice straw, rice straw biochar, and “rice straw + rice straw biochar” were applied as additives in a 2-year field experiment.ResultsThe results showed that the field application of rice straw and its biochar increased the content of soil organic carbon, the amount of organic carbon mineralization, particulate organic carbon, mineral-associated organic carbon, dissolved organic carbon, and readily oxidizable organic carbon content, while reducing the content of soil microbial biomass carbon. The combined application of rice straw and biochar in S. grosvenorii cultivation fields had a more significant effect on various soil carbon fractions compared to the use of either rice straw or biochar alone. The co-application of rice straw and its biochar to the soil increased the content of soil organic carbon by 117.4%, enhanced the mineralization of organic carbon by 100.0%, and reduced the content of soil microbial biomass carbon by 61.6%. The metabolic entropy and microbial entropy of rice straw and its biochar mixed application in the field were 5.2 and 0.18 times higher than of the control group, respectively.DiscussionIn summary, the return of rice straw and biochar to the field improves soil structure and the content of recalcitrant organic carbon, providing a habitat for microorganisms, thereby promoting the stability and cycling of soil organic carbon.
The mediating effects of mobile phone use on ADHD and educational outcomes: a two-step Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Lin Huize , Yuan Sitong , Yu Jinna 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveThis study investigates the potential mediating role of mobile phone screen time in the causal relationships between Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and educational attainment. Our analysis explores both the effect of ADHD on educational outcomes and the reverse, i.e., the influence of educational attainment on ADHD risk.MethodA two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis was conducted using genetic instruments from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of European populations. We employed a two-step MR approach to assess the causal effects between ADHD, mobile phone screen time (both frequency and duration), and educational outcomes, including years of full-time education and college completion. Data from public genome-wide association studies encompassing European populations with sample sizes ranging from 55,374 to 470,941 were utilised.ResultsWe found significant causal associations between childhood ADHD and educational attainment, partially mediated by mobile phone screen time. Childhood ADHD was negatively linked to years of full-time education (IVW: OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.90-0.97, p = 0.000) and college completion (IVW: OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.95-0.98, p = 0.000). Mobile phone use frequency mediated 19.3% of the effect on full-time education (β = -0.158) and 11.9% on college completion (β = -0.084). The duration of phone use mediated 64.8% of the effect on college completion (β = -0.054). When ADHD was the outcome, phone use duration mediated -22.45% of full-time education effects (β = 0.426) and -19.62% of college completion (β = 0.433).ConclusionDifferent MR models reveal the complex mediation role of mobile phone use frequency and duration between ADHD and educational attainment, varying by educational outcome type. Frequency mediates the link between childhood ADHD and full-time education/college completion, while duration significantly impacts ADHD when higher education is the outcome. The notable mediation effect of duration on ADHD underscores the need for further study into screen time’s influence on ADHD and academic achievement across stages.
Psychological distress in biliary tract malignancy patients: influencing factors and development of a predictive nomogram model
Authors: Gou Zhennan , Liu Yuhua , Tang Wenjie , Zhou Changming , Lu Zhenqi , Wang Lu , Feng Wei , Xu Weiqi , Wang Jun 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the psychological distress and its influencing factors in patients with biliary tract malignant tumors, alongside the development of a predictive model.MethodsA total of 219 patients diagnosed with biliary tract malignant tumors who were admitted to the Department of Liver Surgery at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center from July 2021 to May 2023, were selected using a convenience sampling method. Research tools involve psychological distress management screening tools, a demographic questionnaire, self-rating anxiety and depression scales, and the Chinese version of the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale. Bootstrap method was utilized for repeated sampling to identify relevant factors influencing psychological distress in biliary tract cancer patients. The R software was employed to create a nomogram model, and the model’s accuracy and predictive performance were assessed using the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test.ResultsThe average score of psychological distress among the 219 patients was (3.91 ± 2.44), with a psychological distress detection rate of 54.8%. Regression model results indicated that factors such as the presence of distant metastasis, comorbidity with other major diseases, poor sleep quality, anxiety, and severity of anxiety and depression were the primary influencers of psychological distress.ConclusionThe detection rate of psychological distress in patients with biliary tract malignant tumors is notably high. The predictive model constructed in this study exhibits good predictive efficacy and clinical value, providing valuable reference for healthcare professionals in developing targeted intervention strategies.
Effects of BMI and grip strength on older adults' falls—A longitudinal study based on CHARLS
Authors: Huang Lei , Shen Xiaoxin , Zou Yuliang , Wang Yanming 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundBody Mass Index (BMI) and grip strength are potentially important risk factors for falls among the older adults. Currently, there is no consensus on the combined effects of grip strength and BMI on falls in the older adults, particularly among the Chinese older adults.ObjectiveTo investigate the incidence of falls among older adults in China and explore the association between BMI and grip strength and the risk of falls in older adults.MethodsData of participants over 60 in China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study in 2011 and 2013 were collected. Sociodemographic variables, lifestyle, chronic disease status, history of falls and depression and cognitive status were obtained through the 2011 baseline questionnaire. Height, weight and grip strength were collected from a unified physical examination in 2011. Falls during the follow-up period were obtained through the follow-up questionnaire in 2013. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between BMI and grip strength and the risk of falls.ResultsThree thousand six hundred and eighty-five participants over 60 (67.14 ± 6.08) were included, with a fall incidence rate of 17.37%. The fall incidence rate in females (21.15%) was higher than that in male (13.46%). After adjusting covariates, high grip strength was associated with lower falls risks in general population (OR = 0.76; 95 CI: 0.630–0.923) and males (OR = 0.68; 95 CI: 0.503–0.919). Underweight was associated with lower falls risks in general population (OR = 0.77; 95 CI: 0.595–0.981) and females (OR = 0.69; 95 CI: 0.486–0.962) compared to the normal BMI group. Compared with the low grip strength group, females with high grip strength (OR = 0.54; 95 CI: 0.29–0.98) had a lower risk of falls in the underweight BMI group and males with high grip strength (OR = 0.63; 95 CI: 0.43–0.92) had lower risk of falls in the normal BMI group.ConclusionsHigh grip strength and underweight BMI are independently correlated with a lower fall risk, which varies between males and females.
“The package has been opened”- parents' perspective and social validity of an Early Start Denver Model intervention for young children with autism
Authors: Carlsson Emilia , Nygren Gudrun , Gillberg Christopher , Linnsand Petra 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionThis study aimed to capture experiences and perspectives of parents of children with autism participating in an intervention program based on the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). Specifically, we wanted their views regarding feasibility, acceptability, and significance of the intervention program, i.e., its social validity.MethodsFourteen parents, whose children has been diagnosed with autism, were interviewed.ResultsThe results included three themes (1) Comprehensive approach: the participants emphasized the importance of early detection and interventions in their local setting in close cooperation between themselves, health care professionals, and preschool staff. They also highlighted the individual goals based on the child's needs in different developmental areas, as well as the whole family's needs and prioritizations. (2) Hands on—available locally and accessible: focused on different aspects of procedures, including features of the ESDM, parent education, the parent-therapist relationship and nearby location. (3) Sense of empowerment—parents got increased knowledge: the intervention was significant within family daily living and daily activities. The participants expressed that the interventions program contributed to an increased knowledge about autism and the ESDM strategies, positively impacted their child, and improved the collaboration with the preschool.ConclusionParents emphasized the naturalistic, comprehensive, and local setting of the intervention and described that they had gained new knowledge as well a sense of empowerment. The results indicated that the intervention program based on the ESDM was socially valid according to parent descriptions.