bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Vitamin, antioxidant and micronutrient supplementation and the risk of developing incident autoimmune diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Low Chen Ee , Loke Sean , Chew Nicole Shi Min , Lee Ainsley Ryan Yan Bin , Tay Sen Hee 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundAutoimmune diseases pose significant health challenges worldwide and affect millions. In recent years, there has been growing interest in exploring preventive strategies through nutritional interventions using vitamins, antioxidants, and micronutrients to reduce the risk of developing autoimmune diseases. However, excessive supplementation has also been associated with toxicity.ObjectiveWe aim to assess how the intake of vitamins, antioxidants and micronutrients affect the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.MethodsThis PRISMA-adherent systematic review involved a systematic search of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane for controlled studies that evaluated the risk of incident autoimmune diseases after supplementation. Random effects meta-analyses were used for primary analysis.Results18 studies were included. Overall meta-analyses observed that vitamin D did not influence the risk of autoimmune diseases (RR=0.99, 95%CI: 0.81-1.20). However, among the different vitamin D dosages, subgroup analysis demonstrated that those who were supplemented with 600-800IU/day may have a statistically significant reduction in risk (RR=0.55, 95%CI: 0.38; 0.82). Systematic review suggested that consumption of most vitamins, micronutrients and antioxidants may not have any effect on the risk of autoimmune diseases. Smoking, age, physical or outdoor activity and diet were significant confounding factors that affected the efficacy of such interventions.ConclusionWe studied the effect of various vitamins, micronutrients and antioxidants on the risk of developing autoimmune diseases. Our study contributes to the evolving landscape of nutritional immunology, providing a foundation for future research to unravel more definite relationships with supplementation and the development of incident autoimmune diseases.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024504796.
Novel T-cell subsets as non-invasive biomarkers of vascular damage along the predialysis stages of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Martín-Vírgala Julia , Miranda-Prieto Daniel , Fernández-Villabrille Sara , Martín-Carro Beatriz , González-García Nerea , Bande-Fernández Joaquín , Díaz-Corte Carmen , Fernández-Martín José Luis , Alonso-Montes Cristina , Suárez Ana , Panizo Sara , Naves-Díaz Manuel , Rodríguez-Carrio Javier , Carrillo-López Natalia 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionCardiovascular disease is the major cause of premature death in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and vascular damage is often detected belatedly, usually evaluated by expensive and invasive techniques. CKD involves specific risk factors that lead to vascular calcification and atherosclerosis, where inflammation plays a critical role. However, there are few inflammation-related markers to predict vascular damage in CKD. This study aimed to investigate immune populations in pre-dialysis patients to (i) identify subset alterations, (ii) assess longitudinal changes, and (iii) evaluate their applicability as biomarkers of subclinical vascular indices.Methods43 pre-dialysis CKD patients in stages CKD-2 to CKD-5 and 38 controls were recruited at baseline and after 18-month follow-up. Aortic stiffness was determined by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and abdominal aortic calcification was quantified by the Kauppila index on X-rays. Carotid intima-media thickness, the number of carotid plaques and adventitial neovascularization were evaluated by Superb Microvascular Imaging. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated and immune cell populations were assessed by flow cytometry: senescent T cells (CD4+CD28null), Tang (CD3+CD31+CD184+) and derived subsets, and monocyte subsets (classical, intermediate and non-classical; and ACE expression).ResultsSenescent T cells were increased in CKD. Despite Tang levels were unchanged compared to controls, this subset exhibited enhanced immunosenescence traits (CD28null and inverted CD4+CD8+ ratio) in CKD. Furthermore, Tang were negatively correlated with CKD progression. Slight alterations within monocyte subsets were observed. These findings were validated at the 18-month follow-up. Tang were correlated with several subclinical indices, and further analyses revealed an independent effect on PWV and their potential value as biomarkers. Intermediate monocytes were positively correlated with PWV.ConclusionPre-dialysis CKD stages are hallmarked by alterations in immune cell populations related to vascular homeostasis, including early T-cell immunosenescence traits and a stage-dependent Tang depletion, which was independently related to vascular stiffness. All these features were replicated upon follow-up, thus providing validation toward our results. Our findings pave the ground for future studies addressing the functional contribution of these cellular mediators at the local level, assessing their potential predictive value in the long-term and implementing preventive strategies in the clinical setting.
Fractionated alpha and mixed beam radiation promote stronger pro-inflammatory effects compared to acute exposure and trigger phagocytosis
Authors: Karimi Roshan Mostafa , Belikov Sergey , Ix Melissa , Protti Nicoletta , Balducci Claudia , Dodel Richard , Ross J. Alexander , Lundholm Lovisa 
Published: December 2024

Introduction and methodsAiming to evaluate safety aspects of a recently proposed approach to target Alzheimer’s disease, we mimicked a complex boron neutron capture therapy field using a mixed beam consisting of high- and low-linear energy transfer (LET) radiation, 241Am alpha particles (α) and/or X-ray radiation respectively, in human microglial (HMC3) cells.ResultsAcute exposure to 2 Gy X-rays induced the strongest response in the formation of γH2AX foci 30 min post irradiation, while α- and mixed beam-induced damage (α:X-ray = 3:1) sustained longer. Fractionation of the same total dose (0.4 Gy daily) induced a similar number of γH2AX foci as after acute radiation, however, α- or mixed irradiation caused a higher expression of DNA damage response genes CDKN1A and MDM2 24 h after the last fraction, as well as a stronger decrease in cell viability and clonogenic survival compared to acute exposure. Phosphorylation of STING, followed by phosphorylation of NF-κB subunit p65, was rapidly induced (1 or 3 h, respectively) after the last fraction by all radiation qualities. This led to IL-1β secretion into the medium, strongly elevated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes and enhanced phagocytosis after fractionated exposure to α- and mixed beam-irradiation compared to their acute counterparts 24 h post-irradiation. Nevertheless, all inflammatory changes were returning to basal levels or below 10–14 days post irradiation.DiscussionIn conclusion, we demonstrate strong transient pro-inflammatory induction by daily high-LET radiation in a microglia model, triggering phagocytosis which may aid in clearing amyloid beta, but importantly, from a safety perspective, without long-term alterations.
Tracheal reconstructive surgery under ECMO for the treatment of congenital tracheal stenosis in the premature infant: case report
Authors: Xu Qian Ya , Sapana Tamang , Qi Yu , Fu Guo Wei , Guo Long Hui , Ma Wei , Wang Li Li , Zhao Gai , Wang Hai Xia , Zhang Qian 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundCongenital tracheal stenosis (CTS) is a rare but life-threatening malformation of the trachea. Surgical reconstruction is the treatment of choice in symptomatic cases which is highly risky and is rarely performed in extremely premature infants. With this, reporting a case of CTS managed by tracheal reconstructive surgery under ECMO in a baby weighing 1.47 kg at 32 + 1 WOG was the first ever case in China.Case presentationA premature newborn with a very low birth weight (VLBW) was admitted to our institute for breathing difficulties, requiring mechanical ventilation, and experienced two unsuccessful attempts of extubation. The team performed tracheal reconstructive surgery supported by ECMO after identifying lower tracheal stenosis through a bronchoscopy examination. One month after the surgery, oxygen support was able to discontinue. The patient's entire hospitalization was incredibly challenging, marked by hemodynamic instability with persistent anemia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which were managed with great care. Despite the difficult stay, a follow-up bronchoscopy revealed no obstruction or tracheal stenosis, leading to a successful discharge.ConclusionAdvancements in diagnostic techniques and innovative management methods have made diagnosing and treating CTS easier, even in premature infants. Our case is the first in China to successfully undergo tracheal reconstructive surgery supported by ECMO, inspiring future achievements in the medical field.
Shensu IV maintains the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier and exerts renal protective effects by regulating endogenous hydrogen sulfide levels
Authors: Zhou Shuhui , Zheng Liping , Zheng Tingxuan , Zhan Haiyan , Lin Qiuyuan , Wei Jiaoao , Huang Yong 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundNephrotic syndrome has a significant impact on global health, often leading to cardiovascular disease and high mortality due to limited effective treatments. This study investigates the efficacy of Shensu IV in a puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)-induced rat model of nephropathy.MethodsRat models and in vitro podocyte PAN nephropathy models were established with PAN and treated with Shensu IV. Renal function was evaluated by measuring urine output and protein content, while hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and oxidative stress markers were quantified in serum and podocyte lysates. We conducted histological examination on kidney tissues and analyzed molecular markers (CD2AP, nephrin, and PI3K/AKT pathway) using RT-qPCR and Western blot.ResultsShensu IV significantly improved urine output and proteinuria, and attenuated glomerular damage, fibrosis, and mitochondrial swelling in PAN-treated rats. Mechanistically, Shensu IV enhanced endogenous H2S production, reducing oxidative stress and activating the PI3K/AKT pathway in vivo and in vitro. This facilitated the upregulation of the target genes CD2AP and nephrin, which are critical for maintaining glomerular integrity and improving renal function in PAN nephropathy models.ConclusionShensu IV and NaHS confer renal protection primarily by modulating oxidative stress and restoring the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier through mechanisms involving the enhancement of the PI3K/AKT pathway and modulation of H2S levels. These findings suggest a promising therapeutic potential for these metabolites in the treatment of nephrotic syndrome.
Synergistic combinations of Angelica sinensis for myocardial infarction treatment: network pharmacology and quadratic optimization approach
Authors: Wang Wen-Di , Fan Xin-Yi , Wei Xiao-Qi , Chai Wang-Jing , Li Fang-He , Gao Kuo , Liu Bin , Guo Shu-Zhen 
Published: December 2024

Background and aimAngelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (Danggui, DG), exhibits potential in myocardial infarction (MI) treatment. However, research on its synergistic combinations for cardioprotective effects has been limited owing to inadequate approaches.Experimental procedureWe identified certain phenolic acids and phthalein compounds in DG. Network pharmacology analysis and experimental validation revealed the components that protected H9c2 cells and reduced lactate dehydrogenase levels. Subsequently, a combination of computational experimental strategies and a secondary phenotypic optimization platform was employed to identify effective component combinations with synergistic interactions. The Chou-Talalay and Zero Interaction Potency (ZIP) models were utilized to quantify the synergistic relationships. The optimal combination identified, Z-Ligustide and Chlorogenic acid (Z-LIG/CGA), was evaluated for its protective effects on cardiac function and cardiomyocytes apoptosis induced by inflammatory in a mouse model of induced by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation. Flow cytometry was further utilized to detect the polarization ratio of M1/M2 macrophages and the expression of inflammatory cytokines in serum was measured, assessing the inhibition of inflammatory responses and pro-inflammatory signaling factors by Z-LIG/CGA.Key resultsQuadratic surface analysis revealed that the Z-LIG/CGA combination displayed synergistic cardioprotective effects (combination index value &lt;1; ZIP value &gt;10). In vivo, Z-LIG/CGA significantly improved cardiac function and reduced the fibrotic area in mice post-MI, surpassing the results in groups treated with Z-LIG or CGA alone. Compared to the MI group, the Z-LIG/CGA group exhibited decreased ratios of the myocardial cell apoptosis-related proteins BAX/Bcl-2 and Cleaved Caspase-3/Caspase-3 in mice. Further research revealed that Z-LIG/CGA treatment significantly increased IL-1R2 levels, significantly decreased IL-17RA levels, and inhibited the activation of p-STAT1, thereby alleviating cell apoptosis after MI. Additionally, the Z-LIG/CGA combination significantly inhibited the ratio of M1/M2 macrophages and suppressed the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-α in the serum.Conclusion and implicationsWe successfully identified a synergistic drug combination, Z-LIG/CGA, which improves MI outcomes by inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis and inflammatory damage through modulating macrophage polarization and regulating the IL-1R2/IL-17RA/STAT1 signaling pathway. This study provides a charming paradigm to explore effective drug combinations in traditional Chinese medicine and a promising treatment for MI.
The isolation, bioactivity, and synthesis of natural products from Litsea verticillate with anti-HIV activities
Authors: Yan Jia-Lei , Nan Huiru , Fang Xiaoyu , Long Xiong-En , Jiang Yu , Liu Junyang 
Published: December 2024

Natural products isolated from Litsea verticillata have attracted considerable attention from the chemical community due to their unique structures and promising anti-HIV activities. Recent progresses in the isolation and bioactivity studies for these natural molecules were summarized comprehensively. From the 23 previously uncharacterized compounds isolated from the plant Litsea verticillata, litseaverticillol B demonstrated the most potent anti-HIV activity in vitro, with IC50 ranging from 2 to 3 μg/mL. Meanwhile, litseaverticillol E displayed the highest selectivity index (SI = 3.1), indicating a favorable balance between antiviral potency and cellular toxicity. The plausible biosynthetic pathways and the total synthetic approaches for the representative members (litseaverticillols) were introduced in detail.
Transnational economic development: Pakistani and Indian diaspora in focus
Authors: Chauhdry Kinza Tasleem 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) often leads to elevated blood glucose levels and lipid metabolism disorder, which is generally accompanied by dysbiosis of gut microbiota and metabolic dysfunction.MethodIn this study, a mouse model of T2DM was established by feeding a high-fat/sucrose diet combined with injecting a low dose of streptozotocin. The aim of this study was to analyze the regulatory effect of Suaeda salsa extract (SSE) on T2DM and its effect on the intestinal flora of mice.ResultsThe results showed that SSE could significantly improve the body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG), area under the curve (AUC) of the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), glycosylated serum protein (GSP) and islet function index. Moreover, 4-week body weight, FBG, AUC of OGTT, GSP, as well as intestinal acetic and butyric acid were significantly better in the SSE-L than in the MET group (p  &lt;  0.05). In addition, it was also found that the potential hypoglycemic mechanism of SSE was related to the expression of Akt serine/threonine kinase (AKT-1) and glucose transporter-2 (GLUT-2) genes. Compared with the model group, SSE intervention significantly increased the abundance of probiotics, such as Soleaferrea, Alloprevotella, Lactobacillus and Faecalibaculum, while decreasing the relative abundance of harmful bacteria, such as Phocaeicola and Bilophila. Analysis of the correlation among intestinal microbiota, short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and the hypoglycemic index showed that Dwaynesavagella was significantly correlated with acetic, propionic and butyric acid, as well as all the diabetes-related indexes analyzed in this study.DiscussionThus, this taxon can potentially be used as a microbiological marker of type 2 diabetes. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that SSE can alleviate T2DM and its complications by improving glycemia-related indicators and modulating the structure of intestinal flora.
Resilience and emotional intelligence as mediators between personal values and life satisfaction among Chinese young adults
Authors: Lv Fangyan , Tan Jingbin , Shi Dongzhe , Gao Dingguo 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundYoung adults are in the period of the formation and establishment of values. Even though previous research has revealed that personal values are important factors influencing young adults’ life satisfaction, it is still unknown when and under what circumstances values affect life satisfaction among young adults. Therefore, this study explored the relationship between personal values and life satisfaction among Chinese young adults, focusing on the mediating roles of resilience and emotional intelligence.MethodsA sample of N = 635 (271 male) young adults from four universities located in Guangzhou were recruited using a cross-sectional stratified sampling method. All participants completed the Revised Portrait Value Questionnaire, Emotional Intelligence Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Brief Resilience Scale.ResultsResults revealed that: (1) self-transcendence (r = 0.29, p &lt; 0.001), self-enhancement (r = 0.27, p &lt; 0.001), openness to change (r = 0.22, p &lt; 0.001), and conservation (r = 0.26, p &lt; 0.001) were differentially positively associated with life satisfaction. Chain mediation analysis found that: there was a significant indirect effect for self-transcendence, via EI (ind = 0.070, p = 0.004, 95% CI = [0.027, 0.124]), and the sequential influence via EI and resilience suggested a moderate effect (ind = 0.024, p = 0.008, 95% CI = [0.009, 0.045]). For self-enhancement values exerted significantly negative indirect effects on LS via resilience (ind = −0.029, p = 0.034, 95% CI = [−0.060, −0.005]). Openness to change had a significant indirect impact on LS via EI (ind = 0.086, p &lt; 0.001, 95% CI = [0.046, 0.133]), and the sequential influence via resilience and EI was significant (ind = 0.029, p = 0.001, 95% CI = [0.015, 0.050]). For conservation, the chain mediation model did not reveal any significant indirect effects via resilience or EI.ConclusionOur findings extend the current literature on personal values and life satisfaction, highlighting the significant effects of resilience and emotional intelligence on the link between personal values and life satisfaction. Overall, this research helps young adults strengthen their resilience and emotional intelligence to increase the impact of values on life satisfaction.
Evaluating the effect of a virtual reality digital therapeutic on maternal stress among expectant and postpartum Black and Latina mothers: a protocol paper
Authors: Carrasco Mary , Dimanche Stacyca , Fouladian Joshua , Neff Marisela , Scaramutti Carolina , Moloney Mairead , Blanc Judite , Seixas Azizi 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundMaternal mental health is vital to overall well-being, particularly among expectant and postpartum Black and Latina women who experience higher stress levels and mental health challenges. Traditional healthcare systems often fail to meet these needs, underscoring the need for innovative and accessible interventions. NurtureVR, a digital maternal mental health and educational program, leverages virtual reality to offer mindfulness, relaxation, and guided imagery to support these women.ObjectivesThis protocol aims to evaluate whether NurtureVR, a digital therapeutic, can reduce stress levels and mental health symptoms in pregnant and postpartum Black and Latina women, improve sleep, enhance pregnancy and childbirth experiences, and increase pregnancy and postpartum health literacy.MethodsThe Nurturing Moms study uses a pre- and post-intervention design with a 5-week NurtureVR program. Fifty participants, 25 expectant and 25 postpartum Black and Latina women, will be recruited through clinics, community organizations, and online platforms. The study involves three phases: baseline assessments of stress, mood, self-efficacy, demographics, and health history; daily use of NurtureVR for 15 minutes during the third trimester and six weeks postpartum; and follow-up assessments at six weeks postpartum. The program includes 49 modules on labor and delivery, stress during pregnancy, nutrition, breastfeeding, hormonal changes, 3D VR representations of fetal development, pain management simulations, and mindfulness exercises for labor. Participants will report stress, anxiety, mood, and pain levels following each VR session. Additional qualitative insights will be gathered through focus groups, and an optional survey will be administered one-year post-intervention to evaluate long-term effects.ConclusionsThe Nurturing Moms study seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape, demonstrating that digital interventions like NurtureVR are essential for providing high-quality maternal care. By democratizing access to clinical research and healthcare, this decentralized trial promotes equity, improves the generalizability of findings, and accelerates the development of new treatments. The study’s innovative approach has the potential to improve maternal experiences of stress, sleep, and overall health outcomes for Black and Latina mothers and children, despite limitations such as sample size, language barriers, and the preliminary nature of a pilot and feasibility study.
Effects of mind-body exercise on individuals with ADHD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Jin , Wang Weiran , Wang Yiting , Hu Fengting , Jia Mingyuan 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveTo explore the effects of mind-body exercise (MBE) on ADHD through a systematic review and meta-analysis.MethodsAfter identifying relevant search keywords based on the study’s technical terminology, research articles were retrieved from five databases. Two researchers independently screened the results to select studies that met the inclusion criteria. A random-effects model was used to conduct a meta-analysis on the included studies.ResultsThe findings indicate that MBE interventions significantly improved attention in individuals with ADHD [SMD=-0.97, 95% CI (-1.56, -0.39), P &lt; 0.05]. However, the meta-analysis found no evidence that MBE improved executive function, emotional issues, or hyperactivity/impulsivity in ADHD patients.ConclusionsMBE is beneficial for attention improvement in ADHD patients. However, further evidence is needed to support its efficacy as an adjunctive treatment for other symptoms.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023447510.