bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Magnesium depletion score and gout: insights from NHANES data
Authors: Cao Xu , Feng Haixia , Wang Huijie 
Published: November 2024

ObjectivesGout is associated with hyperuricemia, and serum magnesium levels are negatively correlated with uric acid levels. Magnesium intake is also associated with a reduced risk of hyperuricemia. However, the relationship between the magnesium depletion score (MDS), which represents the systemic magnesium status, and gout is unclear. This study was conducted to investigate the association between MDS and gout as well as explore the impact of dietary magnesium intake on this relationship.MethodsWe analyzed 18,039 adults with gout data who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2007 and 2016. Magnesium deficiency status was assessed using the MDS, a comprehensive scoring tool. Considering the possible effects of dietary magnesium intake, weighted multivariable logistic regression and subgroup analyses were used to assess the correlation between MDS and gout.ResultsThe overall prevalence of gout among adults in the United States between 2007 and 2016 was 4.7%. After adjusting for confounders, MDS and gout risk showed a significant positive correlation. Individuals with an MDS of 2 and ≥ 3 had higher odds of gout than those with an MDS of 0 (MDS = 2, odds ratio: 1.86 [1.18–2.93], p = 0.008; MDS = 3, odds ratio: 2.17 [1.37–3.43], p = 0.001; p for trend &lt;0.001). Dietary magnesium intake did not moderate the correlation between MDS and gout risk.ConclusionA positive correlation exists between magnesium deficiency, as quantified using the MDS, and gout risk among adults in the United States. Additionally, dietary magnesium intake did not alter this association.
An early combination of concurrent chemoradiotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors for cervical cancer is superior to a late combination: a propensity-score matching analysis
Authors: Ma Yi-Ming , Cheng Shu-Xia , Zhang Ming-Chuan , Zhang Hui-Ying , Gu Jun-Jiao , Zhao Pan-Pan , Ge Hong 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThis study compared the timing effects of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICIs) administration on the efficacy and safety of concurrent chemoradiotherapy for cervical cancer.MethodsThis study included patients with advanced cervical cancer who received concurrent chemoradiotherapy with ICIs. The patients were divided into early-application (n=51) and late-application groups (n=56) according to the ICI application timing. The primary objective was assessing progression-free survival (PFS) and its associated factors; secondary objectives included assessing objective remission rates (ORR) and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs).ResultsBefore propensity score matching (PSM), the median PFS (mPFS) times were significantly different: 11.5 months (95% CI: 11.0–13.2) and 7.5 months (95% CI: 6.5–9.0) for the early and late groups, respectively (P&lt;0.001). After PSM, the mPFS times remained significantly different: 11.5 months (95% CI: 11.0–13.8) and 6.5 months (95% CI: 6.1–9.0), respectively (P&lt;0.001). The PSM tumor-response ORR in the early combination group (74.3%) was significantly greater than the 31.4% in the late combination group (P&lt;0.001). After PSM, multivariate Cox analysis showed tumor diameter (P=0.004), distant organ metastasis (P=0.047), and timing of combination therapy (P&lt;0.001) were independently associated factors affecting PFS. The most common TRAEs in the two groups of patients were neutropenia, nausea and vomiting, and fatigue, with no significant difference in incidence (P&gt;0.050).All adverse reactions were resolved, and no adverse reaction-related deaths occurred.ConclusionIn patients with cervical cancer treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy, earlier immunotherapy improves survival and is equivalent in safety to ICIs late application.
The effectiveness of acupuncture in cancer pain treatment
Authors: Krukowska Kamila , Krzyśkowska Sylwia , Kuchta Eliza , Rudzińska Anna , Szklener Katarzyna , Mańdziuk Sławomir 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionIn recent years, pain has been recognized as a primary factor significantly diminishing the quality of life in cancer patients. Recent data have prompted the establishment and increased application of non-pharmacological interventions in pain management, such as acupuncture.ObjectivesThis review assesses literature from 2018 to 2023 on the impact of acupuncture on pain management and quality of life in cancer patients, with a particular focus on reducing pain intensity. The effectiveness of acupuncture therapy was compared with the traditional treatment of pain symptoms, with a focus on the patients’ quality of life.ConclusionsAlthough no conclusive scientific evidence confirms the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating cancer pain symptoms, numerous studies have demonstrated its ability to reduce pain, better control pain, decrease analgesic intake, and significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Further research is needed to unequivocally confirm the clinical benefits of acupuncture.
ADRB2 serves as a novel biomarker and attenuates alcoholic hepatitis via the SIRT1/PGC-1α/PPARα pathway: integration of WGCNA, machine learning and experimental validation
Authors: Song Li , Huang Shuo , Yan Honghao , Ma Qing , Luo Qihan , Qiu Jiang , Chen Minxia , Li Zongyuan , Jiang He , Chen Yufan , Chen Fangming , Du Yu , Fu Haozhe , Zhao Lisha , Zhao Kanglu , Qiu Ping 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundAlcoholic hepatitis is a severe inflammatory liver disease. In recent years, the incidence of AH has been on the rise, leading to an increasingly severe disease burden. Currently, there is a lack of specific biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of AH in clinical practice. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to identify biomarkers closely associated with the progression of AH, to address the shortcomings in pathological diagnosis, and to identify potential therapeutic targets.MethodsBioinformatics and machine learning methods were used to comparatively study the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between AH patients and healthy individuals by analyzing four mRNA microarray data sets obtained from the GEO database. Subsequently, the role of potential biomarkers in AH and their mechanism of action were further confirmed by AH patients and in vitro and in vivo experiments.ResultsUsing differential analysis and WGCNA of the data set, a total of 167 key genes that may be related to AH were obtained. Among 167 genes, the LASSO logistic regression algorithm identified four potential biomarkers (KCNJ10, RPL21P23, ADRB2, and AC025279.1). Notably, ADRB2 showed biomarker potential in GSE28619, GSE94397, and E-MTAB-2664 datasets, and clinical liver samples. Furthermore, AH patients and in vivo experiments demonstrated ADRB2 inhibition and suppression of SIRT1/PPARα/PGC-1α signaling pathways, accompanied by elevated inflammatory factors and lipid deposition. In vitro experiments showed that ADRB2 overexpression mitigated the inhibition of the SIRT1/PPARα/PGC-1α signaling pathway, reversing the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and lipid deposition induced by alcohol exposure. Besides, the results also showed that ADRB2 expression in AH was negatively correlated with the levels of inflammatory factors (e.g., CCL2, CXCL8, and CXCL10).ConclusionThis study points to ADRB2 as a promising biomarker with potential diagnostic and prognostic value in clinical cohort data. In addition, in AH patients, in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed the key role of ADRB2 in the progression of AH. These findings suggest that ADRB2 may alleviate AH by activating the SIRT1/PPARα/PGC-1α pathway. This finding provides a new perspective for the diagnosis and treatment of AH.
Fermented beverages in prehispanic Chile: a comprehensive review of their phytochemistry, traditional medicinal uses, bioactivity, and social aspects
Authors: Mitsi Christina , Echeverría Javier 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundArchaeological, ethnohistorical, and ethnographic evidence supports the ubiquitous use of fermented beverages in prehispanic Chile. Made from a variety of plant raw materials, these beverages have been of special importance regarding many nutritional, medicinal, social, ritual, and religious aspects.PurposeThe present review aims to provide a comprehensive review of the interdisciplinary information on traditional Chilean fermented beverages, as well as on the starting materials used for their elaboration.Materials and MethodsAnthropological and ethnopharmacological data were collected through literature searches based on archaeological evidence, books from chroniclers and explorers, as well as modern ethnographic testimonies. Literature data on the chemistry and bioactivity of the prehispanic fermented beverages and the raw materials used were mainly retrieved from digital databases such as SciFinder®, PubMed®, and Google Scholar®.Results and DiscussionThirty seven plant raw materials have been used for the elaboration of traditional fermented beverages in prehispanic Chile. Phytochemical and bioactivity data regarding these beverages are rather limited, but a wide spectrum of chemical compounds, health-promoting and disease-preventative effects is reported for the starting materials.ConclusionDespite the lack of scientific evidence on traditional prehispanic fermented beverages of Chile, the plant raw material exhibit promising phytochemical profiles and potential health-promoting and disease-preventative benefits. This review underscores the importance of integrating ethnopharmacological perspectives into modern research endeavors.
Assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of female entertainment workers in Cambodia: a group model building approach
Authors: Chua Calida S. , Ansah John P. , Tep Sovanvorleak , Oy Sreymom , Ung Mengieng , Yi Siyan 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has intensified global mental health challenges, particularly for vulnerable groups like female entertainment workers (FEWs), a critical HIV-affected population in Cambodia. Already facing pre-existing inequalities, FEWs encountered heightened difficulties due to the pandemic’s disruption of their livelihoods. Their susceptibility to mental health problems is exacerbated by poverty and the occupational stressors they regularly endure. This study aims to identify COVID-19-related factors adversely impacting the mental well-being of FEWs in Cambodia and explore potential interventions to mitigate these effects.MethodsIn December 2021, we conducted a two-day workshop in Phnom Penh using a group model-building approach with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to gather collective insights. We employed the qualitative system dynamics method of causal loop diagram mapping to visualize the factors affecting FEWs’ mental health. Based on participants’ perceptions and experiences, we constructed a causal loop diagram to develop a comprehensive systems perspective.ResultsThe workshop involved 27 stakeholders, including representatives from national institutions (n = 3), local NGOs (n = 17), an international NGO (n = 1), and the FEW community (n = 6). Our analysis identified 13 feedback loops highlighting key factors influencing the mental well-being of FEWs during the pandemic. These factors included the loss of family members, financial instability, fear of COVID-19 infection, the pressure of children’s homeschooling due to school closures, and food insecurity. In response, stakeholders proposed a range of interventions, including alternative vocational training, increased awareness of mental health issues, access to mental health services, and programs targeting gender-based violence within FEW communities.ConclusionA collaborative, multi-sectoral approach is crucial to addressing the mental health challenges of FEWs in Cambodia. Prioritizing the establishment of accessible, affordable, and high-quality mental health services, alongside the implementation of targeted interventions, is essential to mitigate the negative mental health impacts of the pandemic and enhance the overall well-being of FEWs.
Association between social participation patterns and social adaptation among retired Tibetan immigrants: the mediating effect of institutional capital
Authors: Zhou Yue , Ma Menghe , Sun Sheng 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThis study aims to examine the impact of various patterns of social participation on social adaptation among retired Tibetan immigrant older adults, as well as the mediating role of institutional capital in this relationship.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in Sichuan Province, China, involving 700 older adults who immigrated to Sichuan after retiring from Tibet. After excluding invalid samples, 501 were retained for the final analysis. Distinct patterns of social participation were identified using latent class analysis (LCA), and multiple regression models were employed to analyze the mediating role of institutional capital in the relationship between social participation patterns and social adaptation.ResultsThe study revealed four distinct patterns of social participation among the participants: full low-level participation, personal relationship-centric participation, social relevance-oriented participation, and balanced active participation. Institutional capital was found to play both a partial and a full mediating role in the relationship between social participation patterns and social adaptation.DiscussionThese findings suggest that the social participation of retired immigrant seniors is influenced by the combined effects of role change, spatial transition, and aging, highlighting the urgent need to identify alternatives prior to integration into the local community to facilitate a smoother adaptation to life in their new environment.
Prevalence of human visceral leishmaniasis and its risk factors in Eastern Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Geto Abebe Kassa , Berihun Gete , Berhanu Leykun , Desye Belay , Daba Chala 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionVisceral Leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar, is a potentially fatal, neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania and transmitted through infected sandflies. It is one of the major global public health problems and contributors to economic crisis among people. Though different studies investigated human visceral leishmaniasis in Eastern Africa, the findings were inconsistent and inconclusive enough, and there is no representative data on this devastating public health concern. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled prevalence and risk factors associated with human visceral leishmaniasis in Eastern Africa.MethodsThe Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA 2020) guidelines were followed for this study. Databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, LIVIVO, African Journals Online, African Index Medicus (AIM), HINARI, Science Direct, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, and Google were used to retrieve all the relevant articles. The search was carried out from 23 May 2024 to 17 July 2024. Data were analyzed using STATA 17 software to determine the pooled prevalence of human visceral leishmaniasis with a 95% confidence interval using a random-effects model.ResultIn this meta-analysis, thirty-nine articles with 40,367 study participants were included. The overall pooled prevalence of human visceral leishmaniasis in Eastern Africa was 26.16% [95%; CI: 19.96, 32.36%; I2 = 99.67%; p = 0.00]. Gender, age, family size, presence of termite hill/mound, presence of cattle/domestic animals, outdoor sleeping, presence of VL infected family member/s, and presence of water source/pathway near home were the risk factors significantly associated with human visceral leishmaniasis.ConclusionThe recorded pooled prevalence of human visceral leishmaniasis in Eastern Africa underscores the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies. This includes rigorous health education for residents, covering the disease’s cause, transmission, vector breeding sites, and prevention mechanisms.
Evaluating the concept of three-dimensional printing guided endodontics in the dog
Authors: Peng Jiahui , Yang Jie , Liu Ruiyu , Liu Haifeng , Zhong Zhijun , Peng Guangneng , Zhang Kun , Zheng Chengli , Zhang Ming , Zhou Ziyao 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionGuided endodontics represents an effective method for achieving safe and reliable endodontic surgery in human medicine. However, it is rarely employed in small animal dentistry. This study employed finite element analysis and three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques to explore the feasibility of guided endodontics in Beagle mandibular teeth.MethodsThe methodology included the processing of Computed Tomography (CT) data, the creation of mathematical and 3D printing templates of the root canal pathways, and the evaluation of dog 3D printing guided endodontics compared with classic root canal method using radiograph.ResultsIn this experiment, the coordinates of the central point of pulp crown and apex point for each tooth were recorded. Based on the extension line of the central point of dental root canal orifice and the apex point, guided endodontic templates were designed on each root canal of 20 teeth in the Beagle mandible. Among them, the average relative deviation of guided endodontics and classic root canal method was 4.28%  ±  2.75%, and the mean angular deviation was 1.90  ±  0.25°.DiscussionOur research indicated that dog 3D printing guided endodontics has accurate position, direction, and length, which may assist veterinary dentistry in root canal treatment in small animals.
Elevated PD-L1 and PECAM-1 as Diagnostic Biomarkers of Acute Rejection in Lung Transplantation
Authors: Novysedlak Rene , Balko Jan , Tavandzis Janis , Tovazhnianska Vira , Slavcev Antonij , Vychytilova Katerina , Smetanova Jitka , Bohyn Alexandre , Vajter Jaromir , Borcinova Martina , Vanaudenaerde Bart M. , Lischke Robert , Vachtenheim Jiri , Ceulemans Laurens J. , Ozaniak Strizova Zuzana 
Published: November 2024

Acute cellular rejection (ACR) frequently occurs following lung transplantation (LuTx) and represents a risk factor for the development of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) as well as long-term survival. The histopathological diagnosis of ACR carries a burden of interobserver variability. The widespread utilization and cost-effectiveness of immunohistochemistry (IHC) was proven beneficial in diagnosing rejection in human kidney transplantations and LuTx rat models. However, its potential for ACR detection in patients remains unexplored. We analyzed surface markers (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, CD68, CD47, PD-1, PD-L1, and CD31/PECAM-1) on lung tissue cryobiopsy samples collected within 6 months post-LuTx from 60 LuTx recipients, 48 of whom were diagnosed with ACR. Additionally, serum samples from 51 patients were analyzed using a multiplex bead-based Luminex assay. The cytokines and markers included PD-L1, IL2, TNFα, IFNγ, and Granzyme B. We observed a significant increase in PD-L1 tissue expression within the rejection group, suggesting a concerted effort to suppress immune responses, especially those mediated by T-cells. Furthermore, we noted significant differences in PECAM-1 levels between ACR/non-ACR. Additionally, peripheral blood C-reactive-protein levels tended to be higher in the ACR group, while Luminex serum analyses did not reveal any significant differences between groups. In conclusion, our findings suggest the potential value of PECAM-1 and PD-L1 markers in diagnosing ACR.
Leveraging Bioinformatics and Machine Learning for Identifying Prognostic Biomarkers and Predicting Clinical Outcomes in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Cai Kaida , Fu Wenzhi , Liu Hanwen , Yang Xiaofang , Wang Zhengyan , Zhao Xin 
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: There exist significant challenges for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) due to its poor prognosis and limited treatment options, particularly in the advanced stages. It is crucial to identify genetic biomarkers for improving outcome predictions and guiding personalized therapies. Methods: In this study, we utilize a multi-step approach that combines principled sure independence screening, penalized regression methods and information gain to identify the key genetic features of the ultra-high dimensional RNA-sequencing data from LUAD patients. We then evaluate three methods of survival analysis: the Cox model, survival tree, and random survival forests (RSFs), to compare their predictive performance. Additionally, a protein–protein interaction network is used to explore the biological significance of identified genes. Results: DKK1 and TNS4 are consistently selected as significant predictors across all feature selection methods. The Kaplan–Meier method shows that high expression levels of these genes are strongly correlated with poorer survival outcomes, suggesting their potential as prognostic biomarkers. RSF outperforms Cox and survival tree methods, showing higher AUC and C-index values. The protein–protein interaction network highlights key nodes such as VEGFC and LAMA3, which play central roles in LUAD progression. Conclusions: Our findings provide valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms of LUAD. These results contribute to the development of more accurate prognostic tools and personalized treatment strategies for LUAD.
Seaweed Nutritional Value and Bioactive Properties: Insights from Ascophyllum nodosum, Palmaria palmata, and Chondrus crispus
Authors: Čmiková Natália , Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Kmiecik Dominik , Tomczak Aneta , Drożdżyńska Agnieszka , Ślachciński Mariusz , Szala Łukasz , Matić Sanja , Marković Tijana , Popović Suzana , Baskic Dejan , Kačániová Miroslava 
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the nutritional composition and bioactive properties of Palmaria palmata (dulse), Ascophyllum nodosum (knotted wrack), and Chondrus crispus (Irish moss). Understanding the nutritional values of these seaweeds is very important due to their potential health benefits, especially their antioxidant properties and cytotoxic activities, which point to their ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Comprehensive analyses were conducted to assess protein content, amino acid composition, mineral profile, fatty acids, polyphenols, total carotenoids, antioxidant activity, and cytotoxicity against cervical (HeLa), and colon (HCT-116) cell lines. P. palmata exhibited the highest protein content, while C. crispus was richest in calcium, iron, manganese, and zinc. Amino acid analysis revealed C. crispus as being particularly high in essential and non-essential amino acids, including alanine, glutamic acid, and glycine. A. nodosum and C. crispus were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), notably eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). A. nodosum showed the highest total carotenoid content. Polyphenol analysis highlighted the presence of compounds such as p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid across the species. Both the ethanolic and hexane A. nodosum extracts demonstrated the strongest antioxidant potential in DPPH• and ABTS+ assays. The cytotoxicity evaluation revealed high anticancer activity of A. nodosum and C. crispus hexane extract against HeLa and HCT-116, though it employed cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. A. nodosum hexane extract exhibited moderate selective anticancer activity against HCT-116. These findings underscore the nutritional diversity and potential health benefits of these macroalgae (seaweed) species, suggesting their suitability as functional foods or supplements, offering diverse nutritional and therapeutic benefits.