bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic screening of α-thalassemia fusion gene using routine flow-through hybridization
Authors: Huang Yingbei , Ju Aiping , Zheng Lihong , Xu Biqiu , Liang Liang , Li Youqiong 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThe fusion gene is a rare form of α-thalassemia. Patients carrying the fusion gene could be misdiagnosed as normal or -α4.2deletion by the conventional thalassemia detection methods. The aim of this study was to present the detection of fusion genes using routine flow-through hybridization, as well as to analyze hematological and molecular characteristics.MethodsSamples were collected at our hospital from January 2019 to January 2024. Common thalassemia mutations in the Chinese population were conducted by flow-through hybridization. Samples showing faint coloration at the -α4.2 mutation site on hybridization membrane were considered suspicious. Samples detected as suspicious for -α4.2deletion were rechecked by conventional Gap-PCR. Those samples suspected of having -α4.2deletions were finally confirmed with specific primers for Gap-PCR and Sanger sequencing.ResultsOf the 32,083 samples, 25 samples (0.08%) were detected as suspected of having -α4.2 deletion by flow-through hybridization. However, upon reevaluation wtih conventional Gap-PCR reagents capable of detecting -α4.2 deletion, all were found to be negative for the deletion. Specific primers for Gap-PCR were designed, and fusion gene fragments were amplified. DNA sequencing of the HBA gene showed a 7-base mutation corresponding to the α-thalassemia fusion gene. Among the 25 samples, 22 were heterozygous carriers. Three samples were combined: one with Hb QS, one with β-thalassemia, and one with Hb G-Honolulu.Most hematological indices and capillary electrophoresis results were in the normal reference range.ConclusionThe fusion gene was present in 0.08% of the population in the Guangzhou region of Guangdong province, southern China. Conventional genetic methods tend to misdiagnose the fusion gene but can be effectively screened with flow-through hybridization.
Oral exposure to high concentrations of polystyrene microplastics alters the intestinal environment and metabolic outcomes in mice
Authors: Hasegawa Yuka , Okamura Takuro , Ono Yuriko , Ichikawa Takahiro , Saijo Yuto , Nakanishi Naoko , Sasano Ryoichi , Hamaguchi Masahide , Takano Hirohisa , Fukui Michiaki 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionOral exposure to microplastics (MPs) is a global health concern. In our previous study, MPs induced glucose intolerance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) under a high-fat diet-induced leaky gut syndrome (LGS). This study aims to evaluate the effects of high concentrations of MP on lipid metabolism under normal dietary conditions and to assess the changes in the intestinal tract resulting from MP exposure.MethodsC57BL6/J mice were fed a normal diet (ND) without polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) or with PS-MPs (1000 µg/L or 5000 µg/L) for six weeks. Subsequently, intestinal permeability, gut microbiota, and metabolite levels in the serum, feces, and liver were determined.ResultsMice fed the ND showed no increase in intestinal permeability in either group. However, high MPs concentrations led to increased serum lipid levels and exacerbated fatty liver function. Oral exposure to MPs did not affect the number of innate lymphoid cells or short-chain fatty acids in the intestine. However, it increased the number of natural killer cells, altered the gut microbiota, induced inflammation, and modulated the expression of genes related to nutrient transport in the intestine. The severity of intestinal disturbance tended to worsen with dose.DiscussionDespite the absence of LGS, high concentrations of MPs induced dyslipidemia and NAFLD. Oral exposure to MPs triggered intestinal inflammation via natural killer cells, altered the gut microbiota, and modulated nutrient metabolism. Our study highlights the need for environmental measures to reduce oral MPs exposure in the future.
Molecular characteristics of dissolved organic matter in the porewater of "Challenger" Deep sediments, Mariana Trench
Authors: Zheng Kexin , Hu Tingcang , Luo Min , Chen Linying , Qi Yulin , Xie Jingqian , Chen Duofu 
Published: November 2024

Hadal trenches (&gt; 6,000 m water depth) have been revealed as hotspots of organic carbon deposition and mineralization. Here, we present the molecular compositions of porewater dissolved organic matter (DOM) at the “Challenger” Deep (Site MT02; 10,954 m water depth) sediments of the Mariana Trench and the adjacent abyssal plain sediments (Site MT04; 5,800 m water depth) using ultra high-resolution Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). The "Challenger" Deep sediments are characterized by higher abundance of recalcitrant compounds, mainly composed of highly unsaturated compounds (79.7%) and carboxyl-rich alicyclic molecules (57.1%), compared to the abyssal plain sediments (68.3%&amp;51.5%). Principal component analysis suggests that TOC content in the sediments exerts an important control on the molecular characteristics of porewater DOM. It is likely that higher TOC content triggers elevated microbial-mediated organic matter mineralization, thereby forming more refractory organic matter compounds. These results improved the knowledge of the poorly-understood DOM compositions and microbial organic matter degradation in the ultra-deep, extreme ocean environment.
Current status of ultrasound training in obstetrics and gynecology: a scoping literature review
Authors: Matschl Julia , Jimenez-Cruz Jorge , Schäfer Valentin Sebastian , Wittek Agnes , Berg Christoph , Geipel Annegret , Gembruch Ulrich , Strizek Brigitte , Recker Florian 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionAs a widely accessible, cost-effective, and safe imaging tool, obstetric and gynecologic (OB/GYN) ultrasound (ULS) plays a vital role in diagnostics and patient care. With its growing relevance, the demand for comprehensive education in this field increases. The objective of this work was to outline the current state of OB/GYN ULS education.MethodsA scoping literature search was performed until May 2023 using the medical database PubMed according to PRISMA guidelines. Using specific keywords, relevant publications were filtered. Subsequently, abstracts were independently reviewed by two authors and the inclusion of each publication was assessed against pre-defined key search terms. Full-text versions of the included publications were scrutinized and pertinent information was extracted.ResultsIn this review, 126 articles from the literature search matched the inclusion criteria and were investigated. Our findings revealed a diverse range of course concepts and programs, a lot of them not meeting the expectations of trainees and international guidelines. OB/GYN ULS training primarily targets residents, yet opportunities for early exposure and continuing education are underexplored. International organizations, such as the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) and the German Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (DEGUM) have proposed guidelines and curricula for standardized training. However, adoption remains varied. There is an emergent need to innovate teaching methods.ConclusionThere is consensus that standardizing OB/GYN ULS curricula could enhance training quality and streamline the creation of new programs, ultimately improving patient care. Further research is needed to define the most effective strategies for curriculum development and implementation.
Control of hydrogen concentrations by microbial sulfate reduction in two contrasting anoxic coastal sediments
Authors: Coon Gage R. , Williams Leketha C. , Matthews Adrianna , Diaz Roberto , Kevorkian Richard T. , LaRowe Douglas E. , Steen Andrew D. , Lapham Laura L. , Lloyd Karen G. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionMolecular hydrogen is produced by the fermentation of organic matter and consumed by organisms including hydrogenotrophic methanogens and sulfate reducers in anoxic marine sediment. The thermodynamic feasibility of these metabolisms depends strongly on organic matter reactivity and hydrogen concentrations; low organic matter reactivity and high hydrogen concentrations can inhibit fermentation so when organic matter is poor, fermenters might form syntrophies with methanogens and/or sulfate reducers who alleviate thermodynamic stress by keeping hydrogen concentrations low and tightly controlled. However, it is unclear how these metabolisms effect porewater hydrogen concentrations in natural marine sediments of different organic matter reactivities.MethodsWe measured aqueous concentrations of hydrogen, sulfate, methane, dissolved inorganic carbon, and sulfide with high-depth-resolution and 16S rRNA gene assays in sediment cores with low carbon reactivity in White Oak River (WOR) estuary, North Carolina, and those with high carbon reactivity in Cape Lookout Bight (CLB), North Carolina. We calculated the Gibbs energies of sulfate reduction and hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis.ResultsHydrogen concentrations were significantly higher in the sulfate reduction zone at CLB than WOR (mean: 0.716 vs. 0.437 nM H2) with highly contrasting hydrogen profiles. At WOR, hydrogen was extremely low and invariant (range: 0.41–0.52 nM H2) in the upper 15 cm. Deeper than 15 cm, hydrogen became more variable (range: 0.312–2.56 nM H2) and increased until methane production began at ~30 cm. At CLB, hydrogen was highly variable in the upper 15 cm (range: 0.08–2.18 nM H2). Ratios of inorganic carbon production to sulfate consumption show AOM drives sulfate reduction in WOR while degradation of organics drive sulfate reduction in CLB.DiscussionWe conclude more reactive organic matter increases hydrogen concentrations and their variability in anoxic marine sediments. In our AOM-dominated site, WOR, sulfate reducers have tight control on hydrogen via consortia with fermenters which leads to the lower observed variance due to interspecies hydrogen transfer. After sulfate depletion, hydrogen accumulates and becomes variable, supporting methanogenesis. This suggests that CLB’s more reactive organic matter allows fermentation to occur without tight metabolic coupling of fermenters to sulfate reducers, resulting in high and variable porewater hydrogen concentrations that prevent AOM from occurring through reverse hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis.
Exploring time-killing and biofilm inhibition potential of bioactive proteins extracted from two varieties of Pleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Gangwar Reena , Salem Mohamed M. , Maurya Vineet Kumar , Bekhit Mounir M. , Singh Nisha , Amara Amro Abd Al Fattah , Sahu Ram Kumar , Ibrahim Mohamed A. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionDental caries, caused by oral microbial pathogens, are a global health concern, further exacerbated by the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Bioactive proteins and peptides (BAPs) exhibit potent antimicrobial properties, targeting multiple cellular mechanisms within pathogens, reducing the likelihood of resistance development. Given the antimicrobial potential of BAPs, this study aimed to compare the efficacy of BAPs extracted from cultivated (Pleurotus ostreatus, PoC) and wild (Pleurotus ostreatus, PoW) mushrooms against pathogens responsible for dental caries.MethodsBAPs were extracted from both PoC and PoW using a TCA-acetone method. Antimicrobial activities were tested against seven bacteria and one fungus using agar well diffusion and MIC determination. Antibiofilm activity was assessed via modified CV assay, while DPPH and erythrocyte lysis tests evaluated free radical scavenging.ResultsPoC showed superior antimicrobial efficacy, with lower MIC and MBC values, and disrupted biofilm integrity at increasing concentrations. PoW exhibited better antioxidant activity with higher DPPH scavenging, though its antimicrobial efficacy was slightly lower than PoC.DiscussionBoth PoC and PoW BAPs inhibited dental pathogens, with PoC showing stronger inhibition against MRSA and nystatin-resistant Candida albicans. This suggests BAPs may target additional cellular mechanisms beyond membranes, PBPs, and ergosterols. Despite PoW’s stronger antioxidant properties, both BAPs had comparable antibiofilm activity. These findings suggest complementary actions of BAPs from PoC and PoW both, in treating dental caries, offering broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits.
Prognostic nutritional index and albuminuria in adults aged 20 years and above: a cross-sectional analysis in the United States
Authors: Jiang Zhimeng , Zhu Xingyu , Jiang Huixin , Zhao Donglin , Su Feifei 
Published: November 2024

Background and objectiveAlbuminuria is an important early marker of kidney damage and progression of chronic kidney disease and is also linked to several chronic systemic diseases. The Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) is widely used in the assessment of multiple diseases. However, research dealing with the relationship between PNI and albuminuria remains scarce. This research project aims to examine this association.Methods and materialsThe present study employed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2017 and 2020, including 7,737 adult participants who met the study criteria. PNI was analyzed as a quartile-categorized variable. Multivariable regression models and smoothing curve fitting were adopted to examine the relationship between PNI and albuminuria. In order to ascertain the stability of the association across different populations, subgroup analyses were performed.ResultsThe study found a statistically significant inverse relationship between higher PNI levels and the prevalence of albuminuria. The fully adjusted model indicates that a one-unit increase in PNI is associated with a 4% reduced odds of albuminuria prevalence [0.96 (0.93, 0.98)]. Quartile analysis showed a stable inverse relationship, with the highest PNI quartile having the significantly lower odds of albuminuria prevalence [0.76 (0.62, 0.94), p for trend = 0.0004]. Smooth curve fitting and two-piecewise linear regression models indicated a nonlinear relationship between PNI and albuminuria, with a turning point at 42. Subgroup analysis confirmed the reliability of the inverse relationship between PNI and albuminuria across all groups.ConclusionThe findings of this study indicated that higher PNI levels are significantly inversely related to the odds prevalence of albuminuria. PNI could serve as an important predictor for the occurrence of albuminuria. Further prospective studies are needed to validate this association.
Associations between dietary coenzyme Q10 intake and lipid profiles in adults: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhao Mingzhu , Tian Zezhong , Zhao Dan , Kuang Huiying , Liang Ying , Liu Zhihao , Xu Yixuan , Hou Shanshan , Zhong Zepei , Yang Yan 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the average intake of CoQ10 from dietary sources and explore the dose–response relationships between the dietary-derived CoQ10 intake and lipid profiles.MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional study based on the China Health and Nutrition Survey, which included 7,938 adults. The dietary intake assessment used three consecutive 24-h recalls combined with a household inventory. Serum was used for lipid profiling.ResultsThe average dietary-derived CoQ10 intake was 5.4 mg/day in Chinese adults. The dietary CoQ10 intake of the highest quartile (Q4 ≥ 6.96 mg/day) was negatively associated with total cholesterol (TC) [−0.12 (−0.19, −0.06) mmol/L], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) [−0.17 (−0.23, −0.10) mmol/L], and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) [−0.12 (−0.18, −0.05) mmol/L], while positively associated with apolipoprotein A-1 (ApoA1) [0.10 (0.08, 0.13) g/L] and triglycerides (TG) [0.14 (0.05, 0.23) mmol/L], compared to the lowest quartile (Q1 &lt; 1.88 mg/day). Besides, dietary CoQ10 intake showed nonlinear dose–response associations with the above lipid variables (all Pnonlinear &lt; 0.05).ConclusionDietary-derived CoQ10 intake may be associated with some lipid profiles, such as TG, ApoA1, TC, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C. However, CoQ10 from dietary sources may not be a good choice for individuals who need to CoQ10 supplement.
Ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block with lidocaine vs. saline combined with physical exercises for the rehabilitation of supraspinatus tendinitis: a randomized double-blind controlled trial
Authors: Otani Pericles Tey , Rached Roberto Del Valhe Abi , Alfieri Fabio Marcon , de Azevedo Neto Raymundo Soares , Hsing Wu Tu , Battistella Linamara Rizzo , Imamura Marta 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionShoulder pain is the third leading cause of musculoskeletal complaints in primary care clinics. Its prevalence varies from 14% to 34%. Among all the structures that can cause shoulder pain, the most vulnerable to injury is the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle. The ideal management protocol is still unknown. To date, little is known in the literature about the use of ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block as a treatment for supraspinatus muscle tendinitis. Our objective was to assess the effects of the association of a single ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block combined with home-based rotator cuff exercises to reduce pain and improve shoulder functioning in patients with supraspinatus tendinitis.MethodsWe evaluated the effect of a single ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block on pain and functioning of people with supraspinatus tendinitis. Diagnosis was performed using the positive Jobe test. Due to large disparity between clinical and radiological findings, only clinical diagnostic criteria were used to select patients. This was a double-blind, randomized, controlled, clinical study in which patients in the intervention group (n = 42) received a single injection of 5 ml of 2% lidocaine, while in the control group (n = 41) patients underwent the same procedure receiving saline solution 0.9%. All patients received face to face instructions by an experienced physiotherapist and a leaflet explaining home-based exercises. Pain and functioning were assessed using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) questionnaire before the procedure, one week and 12 weeks after the procedure.ResultsPatients in both groups improved significantly since the initial evaluation until the 12th week. Intervention group SPADI (pre, 1 week, 12 weeks): 75.80 ± 18.96, 56.25 ± 31.37, 46.31 ± 31.41 (p &lt; 0.001); Control group SPADI: 75.49 ± 16.67, 50.51 ± 27.58, 49.37 ± 30.90 (p &lt; 0.001). However, there were no significant differences between groups (p = 0.291).Discussion/conclusionWe concluded that both lidocaine and saline ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve blocks reduce pain and improve shoulder functioning in patients with supraspinatus tendinitis. Unexpectedly, the same block performed with saline showed similar results and effects.
Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov, identifier [NCT02495818].
Postnatal levels of glycated albumin and glycated hemoglobin A1c in mothers of large-for-gestational-age newborns
Authors: Železnik Mojca , Trampuš Bakija Alenka , Paro-Panjan Darja , Soltirovska-Šalamon Aneta 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundGestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an important cause of macrosomia. The value of glycated albumin (GlyA) has been demonstrated to be a useful marker of glycemic control in pregnancy and a predictor of adverse perinatal outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the postnatal levels of GlyA and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) regarding the prenatal diagnosis of GDM in mothers of large-for-gestational-age (LGA) newborns.MethodsThe study included mothers and their LGA newborns born between July 2017 and September 2019. The mothers were grouped according to the prenatal diagnosis of GDM, and measurements of GlyA and HbA1c levels in their serum were performed on the first day after delivery of a LGA newborn.ResultsA total of 61 LGA newborns and their mothers were enrolled in the study. The median GlyA level was higher, at 16.4% (81.0 µmol/L), whereas the HbA1c level was lower in the group without a prenatal diagnosis of GDM; the differences between groups regarding the GlyA and HbA1c levels were not significant (p &gt; 0.05). The postnatal level of maternal GlyA was positively correlated with birth weight (β = 0.022, p = 0.007), but no correlation with the presence of other adverse perinatal outcomes was found.ConclusionMothers of LGA newborns who were not diagnosed with GDM during pregnancy had higher median levels of GlyA and lower HbA1c levels than mothers with prenatal diagnosis of GDM. Values of GlyA in mothers were positively correlated with the birth weight of their newborns but no correlation with other adverse perinatal outcomes was found. Our results indicate the potential value of GlyA for screening of GDM in the last trimester of pregnancy.
Drug prescriptions in elderly hospitalized patients with cognitive impairment in the Italian Dementia Friendly Hospital project
Authors: Govoni Stefano , Rosi Alessia , Preda Stefania , Lanni Cristina , Cappa Stefano , Allegri Nicola 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to characterize drug prescription patterns in elderly patients hospitalized in acute wards as a function of cognitive status and staff training.MethodsWe recorded clinical parameters reflecting health status and drug prescriptions at admission, during hospital stay, and at discharge before and after a short staff training on the needs of aged cognitively impaired patients. Participants aged 65 and older had a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥16. The number of prescriptions, sedative and anticholinergic load, and drug–drug interactions were evaluated. Of the 116 older patients analyzed, 59 patients were cognitively impaired, and 57 were cognitively normal with an MMSE value &gt; 24. Fifty-nine patients (28 CN, 31 CI) were assisted by the hospital health staff after training.ResultsParticipants presented a widespread polypharmacy. Cognitively impaired patients received more prescriptions, more inappropriate prescriptions, had a greater sedative load, and were exposed to more interactions. Staff training had no effect on the prescription pattern.ConclusionThe results suggest that hospitalized cognitively impaired patients are overprescribed psychotropic drugs and have an excessive sedative and anticholinergic load. Interventions designed to improve dementia care practices in health staff that are not also designed to manage drug polypharmacy do not modify prescription patterns.