bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prefrontal serotonin depletion delays reversal learning and increases theta synchronization of the infralimbic-prelimbic-orbitofrontal prefrontal cortex circuit
Authors: Estrada-Reyes Yoana , Cervantes-Alfaro José Miguel , López-Vázquez Miguel Ángel , Olvera-Cortés María Esther 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionPrefrontal serotonin plays a role in the expression of flexible behavior during reversal learning tasks as its depletion delays reversal learning. However, the mechanisms by which serotonin modulates the prefrontal cortex functions during reversal learning remain unclear. Nevertheless, serotonin has been shown to modulate theta activity during spatial learning and memory.MethodsWe evaluated the effects of prefrontal serotonin depletion on theta activity in the prefrontal infralimbic, prelimbic, and orbitofrontal (IL, PL, and OFC) subregions of male rats during a spatial reversal learning task in an aquatic T-maze.ResultsPrefrontal serotonin depletion delayed spatial reversal learning and increased theta activity power in the PL and OFC. Furthermore, animals with serotonin depletion had increased functional coupling between the OFC and the IL and PL cortices compared with the control group.DiscussionThese results indicate that serotonin regulates reversal learning through modulation of prefrontal theta activity by tuning both the power and functional synchronization of the prefrontal subregions.
Menisoxoisoaporphine A, a novel oxoisoaporphine alkaloid from Menispermi Rhizoma, inhibits inflammation by targeting PDE4B
Authors: Qiao Xin , Cao Xiaojuan , Xu Shuang , Wang Cunlin , Guo Rui , Yao Xiaojuan , Zhang Qiong 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundDysregulated and excessive inflammatory reactions can lead to tissue damage, which is the underlying cause of most human diseases. Menisoxoisoaporphine A (MA), a novel oxoisoaporphine alkaloid, was obtained from Menispermi Rhizoma, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions in clinical practice. This suggests that MA has very promising potential for the development of anti-inflammatory therapeutics. Hence, this study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects and underlying mechanisms of MA.MethodThe anti-inflammatory effects of MA were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cells. Its underlying mechanisms were explored through RNA sequencing and Western blotting. The binding modes and interactions sites between MA and phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B) were predicted using molecular docking and validated by molecular dynamics simulation.ResultsMA treatment significantly reduced LPS-induced morphological changes, inflammatory cytokine relesae, and proinflammatory genes expression in RAW264.7 cells compared to the LPS-induced controls. Transcriptome sequencing analysis suggested that PDE4B might be a key target for MA to exert its therapeutic effect. Mechanismly, MA directly acted on Tyr405 site of PDE4B, thus leading to a sustained elevation of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, which subsequently inactivated NF-κB signaling pathway by phosphorylating protein kinase A (PKA). MA inhibited the NF-κB-mediated inflammatory response depending on PDE4B.ConclusionMA, a natural and novel compound, exerted anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophage cells. It demonstrated a strong binding ability to the Tyr405 sites of PDE4B, thereby inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway by regulating the cAMP-PKA axis. Elucidating the interaction between MA and PDE4B holds significant potential for the advancement of innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at inflammatory diseases. By strategically modulating this interaction, it may be feasible to achieve more precise regulation of inflammatory responses, thereby offering promising therapeutic benefits for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Relationship between parental involvement and children’s positive mental character during early years: the moderating role of parent-teacher relationship and teacher-parent relationship
Authors: Cai Liman , Huang Peishan , Guo Yuanfang 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionTo explore the association between parental involvement and children’s positive mental character, and examine the moderating effect of the relationship between teachers and parents.MethodsThe present study conducted latent moderated structural equation model among 167 Chinese preschool teachers and 1019 preschool children and their parents. Parents reported children’s positive mental character and perceived relationships with their children’s teachers while teachers reported their perceived relationships with each child’s parents.ResultsThe results indicated that (1) three dimensions of parental involvement (home-based involvement, school-based involvement and home-school conferencing) were positively related to children’s positive mental character; (2) teacher-perceived teacher-parent relationship moderated the association between home-based involvement and children’s positive mental character; (3) the effects of school-based involvement * parent-teacher relationship and home-school conferencing * parent-teacher relationship on children’s positive mental character were significant.DiscussionThis study provided the implications for promoting the development of positive mental character among Chinese preschool children.
Exercise intervention on the brain structure and function of patients with mild cognitive impairment: systematic review based on magnetic resonance imaging studies
Authors: Xu Jing , Yu Jiangsheng , Li Gai , Wang Yanqiu 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveThis systematic review evaluates the impact of exercise intervention in MCI patients and discusses the potential neural mechanisms.MethodsA systematic search and screening of relevant literature was conducted in English and Chinese databases. Based on predefined keywords and criteria, 24 articles were assessed and analyzed.ResultsStructurally, a significant increase was observed in the hippocampal and gray matter volumes of MCI patients following exercise intervention, with a trend of improvement in cortical thickness and white matter integrity. Functionally, after the exercise intervention, there were significant changes in the local spontaneous brain activity levels, cerebral blood flow, and functional connectivity during rest and memory encoding and retrieval tasks in MCI patients.ConclusionExercise may contribute to delaying neurodegenerative changes in brain structure and function in patients with MCI. However, the underlying neural mechanisms require further research.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42023482419.
Antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli in drinking water from one health perspective in low and middle income countries
Authors: Desye Belay , Woldetsadik Mawugatie Temeselew , Asmare Lakew , Tsega Yawkal , Melak Dagnachew , Endawkie Abel , Daba Chala 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionAntimicrobial resistance is a major global public health concern, especially in low-resource settings. In low- and middle-income countries, the existing evidence about antimicrobial resistance in drinking water is inconsistence and not comprehensive. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli from drinking water in low- and middle-income countries.MethodsThis study was conducted using comprehensive literature searches using various databases such as PubMed, Scientific Direct, HINARI, and Google Scholar. Data extraction was performed using Microsoft Excel and exported to STATA 14/SE software for analysis. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute’s quality appraisal tool to ensure the quality of the included studies. A random effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger’s regression test. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis were also conducted in this study.ResultsThe study found that the pooled prevalence of Escherichia coli isolates in drinking water was 37.94% (95% CI: 26.73–49.13). The prevalence of multidrug resistance was 43.65% (95% CI: 31.15–56.15). Regarding specific antimicrobials, the pooled resistance levels of Escherichia coli were 54.65% (95% CI: 41.35–67.96) against contrimoxazole, followed by 48.64% (95% CI: −3.6–101) against amoxicillin and 48% (95% CI: −18.1–114.2) against cefuroxime.ConclusionThe findings indicated a significant prevalence of antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli isolated from drinking water and its multidrug resistance. To address this issue, it recommends focusing on improving basic hygiene and sanitation practices and enhancing water and wastewater treatment systems.Systematic review registrationIdentifier CRD42024533592.
The bacterial burden of worn face masks—observational research and literature review
Authors: Kisielinski Kai , Wojtasik Barbara , Zalewska Aleksandra , Livermore David M. , Jurczak-Kurek Agata 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionFacemasks were widely mandated during the recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Especially the use by the general population is associated with a higher risk of improper handling of the mask and contamination and potential adverse microbiological consequences.MethodsWe investigated and quantified bacterial accumulation in facemasks used by the general population, using 16S rRNA (Sanger Sequencing), culture and biochemical analysis along with Rose Bengal staining. Additionally, a systematic overview of the literature on face mask contamination was undertaken.ResultsWe found an average bacterial load of 4.24 × 104 CFU recovered/mask, with a maximum load of 2.85 × 105 CFU. This maximum is 310 times higher than the limit value for contamination of ventilation system outlet surfaces specified by the German standard VDI 6022. Biochemical and molecular identification predominantly found Staphylococcus species (80%), including Staphylococcus aureus, along with endospore-forming Bacillus spp. Literature reports also indicate contamination of masks by bacterial and fungal opportunists of the genera Acinetobacter, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Bacillus, Cadosporium, Candida, Escherichia, Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Klebsiella (including K. pneumoniae), Micrococcus, Microsporum, Mucor, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Bacterial counts increase linearly with wearing duration.DiscussionProlonged use may affect the skin and respiratory microbiomes, promoting consequential eye, skin, oral and airway conditions. These aspects underscore the urgent need for further research and a risk-benefit analysis in respect of mask use, particularly given their unproven efficacy in disrupting the transmission of respiratory viruses and their adverse social consequences.
Efficacy of chemo-mechanical caries removal: a 24-month randomized trial
Authors: Kitsahawong Kemporn , Seminario Ana Lucia , Pungchanchaikul Patimaporn , Rattanacharoenthum Anoma , Sutthiprapaporn Pipop , Pitiphat Waranuch 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionChemo-mechanical caries removal (CMCR) offers an alternative to conventional drilling for carious dentin removal, but limited evidence exists on its long-term effects on treating caries in primary teeth. The primary aims of this study were to compare CMCR to drilling in terms of restoration status and the presence of secondary caries after 24 months.MethodsA randomized, parallel-group, single-blinded, controlled trial was conducted in Thailand. Participants were children aged 7–8 years with occlusal caries in second primary molars, randomly assigned to CMCR with Papacarie® (n = 242) or drilling (n = 246). All cavities were restored using glass ionomer cement. Completeness of caries removal was evaluated clinically by two blinded dentists, and patients' discomfort was measured using a facial visual analogue scale. Restoration status and development of secondary caries were assessed every six months clinically and every 12 months radiographically over a 2-year period.ResultsBoth groups achieved complete caries removal, but the CMCR took significantly longer than the drilling method (9 vs. 2.3 min, p &lt; 0.001). Children in the CMCR group reported significantly lower discomfort during treatment (p &lt; 0.001). At 24 months, ten (4.6%) restorations in the CMCR group failed, compared to three (1.2%) in the drilling group. Clinically, four restorations (CMCR = 2, control = 2) exhibited secondary caries at the margin, while nine restorations (CMCR = 8, control = 1) showed radiographic evidence of secondary caries beneath the restoration. However, neither clinical nor radiographic evaluations revealed statistically significant differences in treatment outcomes at the two-year mark.ConclusionCMCR demonstrated comparable efficacy to conventional drilling for complete caries removal and restoration success at 24 months in primary teeth. Despite a longer chair time, it resulted in less discomfort during treatment.Clinical Trial Registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01641861, identifier: NCT01641861.
Performance and physical activity. How playful activities implemented into training in Danish esports clubs influence players' performance experience
Authors: Østergaard Lars Domino , Straszek Christian Lund Nørgaard , Frandsen Lasse Nørgaard 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionOver the past few years, attention has focused on how physical activity can enhance esports players' performance. For example, complementing esports training with physical activities has been explored. However, most of these activities are based on traditional strength or endurance-related exercises, which do not align with the interests of children attending organized esports clubs.MethodsIn this study, we investigate playful physical activities. Our research is based on qualitative pilot studies, where we observed and interviewed players (N = 77) and coaches (N = 12) from nine organized esports clubs for two to four months per club. We explored their experiences with playful physical activities implemented during esports training. Using a reflexive thematic analytical approach, we revisited and analyzed the data.ResultsThe results are presented in this paper as three nonfictional short stories, creatively describing the lived experiences of the players and coaches. We emphasize patterns of shared meaning and identify the “What's” and “How's” associated with esports training when playful physical activities are incorporated. Despite differences in form, duration, and intensity compared to activities referenced in the literature on esports and performance, our results demonstrate that playful activities positively influence esports players' skills and performance.DiscussionFurthermore, our findings suggest that playful physical activities, as opposed to traditional strength and endurance exercises, often associated with physical activity, are acceptable for esports coaches. However, for maximum impact, these activities must be relevant and directly related to the games played in the esports clubs. Based on our research, we recommend implementing playful physical activities that align with the actual esports training to support developing and optimizing players' esports skills and performance.
China's electric vehicles adoption: implications for sustainable electricity, transportation, and net-zero emissions
Authors: Abudu Hermas , Sai Rockson , Hossin Md Altab , Botah Elvis Banoemuleng 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionThe rapid adoption of electric vehicles in China is a key strategy for decarbonizing the transportation sector, facilitating the transition to sustainable energy, and meeting the country's net-zero emissions goals. Notwithstanding this, limited research has explored how technological advancement influences electric vehicle adoption in the context of achieving sustainable electricity.MethodsThis study addresses this gap by integrating vehicle range, smart charging infrastructure, and battery electric vehicles into an econometric count framework utilizing countrywide data-driven insights.ResultsThe findings demonstrate that technological advancements-specifically in vehicle range and the expansion of charging infrastructure-are vital solutions in driving battery electric vehicles acceptance. These advancements are essential for revolutionizing the transportation industry and contributing to the country's emissions reduction targets.DiscussionHowever, this presents a dual challenge: balancing increased electricity demand while capitalizing on these technologies to meet net-zero goals. The study highlights critical policy implications, particularly the need to advance electric vehicle material technologies through the use of critical minerals including aluminum and lithium. By prioritizing these materials, producers can improve electric vehicles' efficiency and support the integration of renewable energy sources. The study concludes that incorporating renewable energy solutions, like solar-powered charging stations, is crucial for ensuring sustainable electricity. Policies encouraging public-private partnerships and investments in research on materials and smart charging technologies are crucial for reducing charging times and improving vehicle range. Additionally, fostering public-private collaborations to install smart charging infrastructure equipped with Internet-of-Things technology at parking slots can create a synergistic effect, significantly boosting electric vehicle adoption in China.
Predictors of mortality at 3 months in patients with skull base tumor resections in a low-income setting
Authors: Shiferaw Mestet Yibeltal , Baleh Abat Sahlu , Gizaw Abel , Teklemariam Tsegazeab Laeke , Aklilu Abenezer Tirsit , Awedew Atalel Fentahun , Anley Denekew Tenaw , Mekuria Bereket Hailu , Yesuf Ermias Fikiru , Yigzaw Mengistu Ayele , Molla Henok Teshome , Awano Mekides Muse , Mldie Alemu Adise , Abebe Endeshaw Chekole , Hailu Nebyou , Daniel Sura , Gebrewahd Dejen Teke 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveGlobally, skull base tumors are among the most challenging tumors to treat and are known for their significant morbidity and mortality. Hence, this study aimed to identify robust associated factors that contribute to mortality of patients following surgical resection for a variety of skull base tumors at the 3-month follow-up period. This in turn helps devise an evidence-based meticulous treatment strategy and baseline input for quality improvement work.MethodologyA retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing skull base tumor resection was conducted at two large-volume neurosurgery centers in Ethiopia. The categorical variables were expressed in frequencies and percentages. Normal distribution of continuous data was checked by histogram and the Shapiro–Wilk test. Median with interquartile range (IQR) was calculated for skewed data, while mean with standard deviation (SD) was used for normally distributed data. Odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) were used to express the result of univariate and multivariate binary logistic analyses, respectively. A p-value &lt;0.005 was considered statistically significant at 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultThe study involved 266 patients. Of this, women accounted for 63.5% of patients. The median age of patients was 37 (±IQR = 17) years while the median size of the tumor in this study was 4.9 (±IQR 1.5) cm. The mean duration of symptoms at time of presentation was 17.3 (±SD = 11.1) months. Meningioma, pituitary adenoma, and craniopharyngioma contributed to 68.4%, 19.2%, and 9% of the skull-based tumors, respectively. Mortality following skull base tumor resection was 21.1%. On multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, intraoperative iatrogenic vascular insult (AOR = 28.76, 95% CI: 6.12–135.08, p = 0.000), intraventricular hemorrhage (AOR = 6.32, 95% CI: 1.19–33.63, p = 0.031), hospital-associated infection (AOR = 6.96, 95% CI: 2.04–23.67, p = 0.002), and extubation time exceeding 24 h (AOR = 12.89, 95% CI: 4.89–40.34, p = 0.000) were statistically significant with 3-month mortality.ConclusionMortality from skull base tumor resection remains high in our setting. Holistic pre-operative surgical planning, meticulous intraoperative execution of procedures, and post-operative dedicated follow-up of patients in a neurointensive care unit alongside quality improvement works on identified risks of mortality are strongly recommended to improve patient outcomes. The urgent need for setup improvement and further training of neurosurgeons is also underscored.
Adolescents’ Wellbeing at School: What Helps and What Hinders From Feeling Safe and Satisfied?
Authors: Horanicova Simona , Husarova Daniela , Madarasova Geckova Andrea , Lackova Rebicova Miriama , Sokolova Lenka , deWinter Andrea F. , Reijneveld Sijmen 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesThe aim of this qualitative study was to identify the main factors that help and hinder adolescents’ wellbeing at school using their perspectives and experiences.MethodsWe used data from 45 adolescents in the first year of high school in Slovakia (mean age = 14.98; 22.2% boys). We obtained the data using 11 semi-structured group interviews conducted in 2020/2021. Participants were selected from three types of high school with regard to graduation system. Data was analysed using consensual qualitative research and thematic analysis.ResultsWe identified three main themes of factors contributing to their wellbeing at school: 1. School (atmosphere and organisation of life at school, physical environment, threats and the ability of school to deal with issues); 2. Relationships (with peers and teachers, and teachers’ behaviour towards them); 3. Myself (own perceived obstacles and resilience resources).ConclusionThe organisation of life at school, surroundings, threats and dealing with issues importantly affect adolescents’ wellbeing. Therefore, adjustment of physical environment and interpersonal competences of teachers, supporting of resilience resources of adolescents should be targets for interventions and prevention programmes at schools.