bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Magnetic nanoparticles for eliminating endocrine-disrupting compounds in water treatment – a quantitative systematic analysis
Authors: Guimarães Juliana , Taveira Igor , Anacleto Thuane Mendes , Enrich-Prast Alex , Abreu Fernanda 
Published: November 2024

Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) are a group of emergent pollutants that affect the endocrine system. EDCs can cause harm to humans and animals and unbalance the aquatic ecosystem even at low concentrations. Several methods are applied to remove EDCs, and recently, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), a low-cost and magnetically-responsive approach, have been introduced as modern innovative tools for this purpose. Thus, we conducted a systematic analysis to determine the characteristics of MNPs required to optimize EDCs removal in water/waste treatments. Most studies used magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles, a low-cost and easily acquired material, followed by other metallic oxides nanoparticles (MOPs) like zinc, copper, and nickel oxides. Short adsorption time (0.5–15 min) and small MNP (10–80 nm) were the most prominent and successful in EDCs recovery approaches. After analyzing data published in the last decade, results showed that, in general, processes that apply lower concentrations of MNP seem to achieve a significant higher removal rate. For instance, MNPs formulations are able to successfully remove &gt;90% of bisphenols and phthalates. However, depending on the EDCs type, the concentration of MNPs have to be adjusted to increase EDCs recovery rates, possibly due to their different chemical compositions and properties. Our results indicate that MNPs are an efficient, with potential to be a relatively cheap way to extract or eliminate EDCs from wastewater and should be considered an innovative tool to be included in waste treatment protocols.
Research hotspots and trends for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a machine learning bibliometric analysis from 2004 to 2023
Authors: Fang Pingping , Han Jingzhe , An Di , Bu Yi , Ji Guang , Liu Mingjuan , Deng Jinliang , Guo Moran , Han Xu , Wu Hongran , Ma Shaojuan , Song Xueqin 
Published: November 2024

AimsThe aim of this study was to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the relevant literature on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) to ascertain its current status, identify key areas of research and demonstrate the evolution of the field.MethodsThe analysis sourced documents from the Science Citation Index Expanded in the Web of Science core collection, utilizing CiteSpace software and an online bibliometric platform to analyze collaborative networks among authors, institutions and countries, and to map out the research landscape through journal and reference evaluations. Keyword analyses, including clustering and emergent term identification, were conducted, alongside the development of knowledge maps.ResultsThe study included 9,277 documents, indicating a rising publication trend in the field. The Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale emerged as the top publishing institution, with Francesco Muntoni as the most prolific author. The United States dominated in publication output, showcasing significant leadership. The keyword analysis highlighted 786 key emergent terms, primarily focusing on the mechanisms, diagnostics and treatment approaches in DMD.ConclusionThe field of DMD research is experiencing robust growth, drawing keen interest globally. A thorough analysis of current research and trends is essential for advancing knowledge and therapeutic strategies in this domain.
Capsule endoscopy aspiration and respiratory physician’s treatment insights: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhou Yinxue , Wang Hongmei , Zhuang Min , Liu Hua , Qi Lijie , Zhang Lingyun , Sun Jiaxing 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundCapsule endoscopy (CE) is widely used for intestinal examination; however, capsule aspiration into the airway is a serious complication that requires urgent intervention. We present a management case report and review 39 cases from 2003 to 2023, providing insights into the prevention and treatment of capsule aspiration.Case presentationA 69-year-old man with chronic bronchitis and emphysema presented with 7 months of intermittent melena. After swallowing a capsule endoscope (PillCam™ SB 3), he had a brief cough and chest tightness. Imaging confirmed aspiration in the right intermediate bronchus, and non-invasive removal procedures were unsuccessful.MethodsReal-time imaging confirmed the lodged capsule. Non-invasive methods, such as coughing and chest percussion, were unsuccessful. Therefore, flexible bronchoscopy was performed under general anesthesia to retrieve the capsule using a snare, which was then placed into the duodenum using a gastroscope.ResultsThe capsule was successfully retrieved, and the patient recovered well, completing the endoscopy without further issues.ConclusionOur case study and literature review highlight the need for careful attention to high-risk groups in CE, including the elderly and individuals with neurological or swallowing difficulties. A thorough history review and real-time monitoring are essential for preventing complications. Bronchoscopy is preferred for CE retrieval due to its advantages. Manufacturers are urged to improve CE safety, with respiratory physicians helping internists in managing this potentially life-threatening complication.
Correlation between triglyceride-glucose index and early neurological deterioration in patients with acute mild ischemic stroke
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Zhiye , Zhang Zuonian , Lu Zhaomin , Zhang Lihua , Ding Wei , Fang Kai , Pan Xijin , Ni Mengyuan , Liu Junjun 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThe Triglyceride-glucose Index (TyG) index is a dependable metric for assessing the degree of insulin resistance, serving as a standalone predictor of ischemic stroke risk, but its precise relationship with early neurological deterioration (END) remains incompletely expounded within the context of acute mild ischemic stroke patients. This research is to examine the correlation of the TyG index with END among patients experiencing acute mild ischemic stroke in China.MethodsThis retrospective analysis was conducted to systematically gather data regarding patients experiencing their maiden episode of acute mild ischemic stroke and hospitalized at the Neurology Department of Nanjing Meishan Hospital, located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China, over the period extending from January 2020 to December 2022. The severity of stroke was determined through the utilization of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores upon their admission. Demographic characteristics were collected, and measurements of fasting blood glucose, blood lipids, and glycosylated hemoglobin Alc levels were taken. END was defined as a one-point rise in the motor item function score on the NIHSS or a two-point increase in the overall score during the initial 72 h of hospitalization. For evaluating the correlation of the TyG index with END, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out. To investigate whether there is a nonlinear relationship between the TyG index and END, smoothed curves were utilized.ResultsThe study included 402 patients diagnosed with acute mild ischemic stroke, with a mean age of 66.15 ± 10.04 years. Within this population, 205 were males (51.00%) and 197 were females (49.00%). Among these patients, 107 (26.62%) experienced END within 72 h of admission. Patients who developed END showed higher levels of the TyG index in comparison to those who remained stable (9.18 ± 0.46 vs. 8.87 ± 0.46, p &lt; 0.001). In a comprehensive multivariate logistic regression analysis, the TyG index positively correlates with END (OR = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.75–7.54, p = 0.001). Furthermore, individuals in the fourth TyG index quartile exhibited a 2.36-fold heightened risk of END compared to those in the first quartile (95% CI: 1.38–8.19, p = 0.008). TyG index has a linear correlation with END in the generalized additive model (Log likelihood ratio test, p = 0.525).ConclusionOur findings demonstrate that TyG index has a significant, independent, and positive correlation with END in Chinese individuals diagnosed with acute mild ischemic stroke. This underscores the TyG index’s potential usefulness as a valuable risk stratification tool for stroke patients.
Ocular findings in neurosyphilis: a retrospective study from 2012 to 2022
Authors: Cheng Huanhuan , Zhu Haocheng , Shen Gang , Cheng Yaqi , Gong Jiao , Deng Juan 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThis study aimed to investigate ocular manifestations in patients with neurosyphilis and their association with general indexes.MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted among patients who were hospitalized for neurosyphilis from 2012 to 2022. Clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, brain MRI, and ocular examinations were reviewed and analyzed.ResultsA total of 106 neurosyphilis patients were included, of which 10 patients presented with ocular signs as their initial symptoms. The most common main complaint was reduced vision (6/10), followed by diplopia (2/10) and ptosis (2/10). The causes of vision loss included optic neuropathy (4/6) and posterior uveitis (2/6), with all six patients showing optic nerve involvement. A total of 29 (27.4%) patients exhibited pupil abnormalities. A lumbar puncture was performed on all 106 patients, and abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings were revealed in 101 (95.3%) patients, indicating central nervous involvement. The median white blood cell count in the CSF of the patients with pupil abnormalities was significantly higher than that of those without pupil abnormalities (14.0 vs. 6.0 cells/μl, p = 0.037). In addition, the patients with abnormal pupillary light reflex (PLR) were more likely to have multiple brain lesions compared to those with normal PLR (77.3% vs. 29.2%, p &lt; 0.001).ConclusionOptic nerve involvement is the main cause of vision loss in neurosyphilis. Patients with optic neuropathy or posterior uveitis should undergo prompt diagnostic evaluation for syphilis. Pupil abnormalities can serve as indicators of more severe CSF and MRI findings.
Herbal placebo response in clinical trials on irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Kaiyue , Lv Mi , Zheng Ting , Wang Fengyun , Tang Xudong , Lv Lin 
Published: November 2024

Aim of the studyTo systematically evaluate the herbal placebo response in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of herbal medicine on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).Materials and methodsWe searched for RCTs with herbal placebo groups for IBS in PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), the Wan Fang database and Sinomed database from 31 January 1994 to November 2023, and the quality of the literature was evaluated by the Cochrane risk of bias assessment criteria. The primary outcome indicators were response rate, abdominal pain and stool improvement rate, which were analyzed by single-group rate meta-analysis. Secondary outcomes were analyzed in subgroups based on diagnostic criteria, duration of treatment, subtype, research locations, placebo form, and presence of herbal ingredients to look for factors affecting respond rate.ResultsThe study included 24 papers, involving a total of 2,596 patients. Of these, 1151 IBS patients were treated with the herbal placebo. The placebo response rate in IBS patients in the herbal placebo group was 37% (P &lt; 0.01,I2 = 75%). A total of 287 patients in five studies were given the herbal placebo, and the improvement rate of abdominal pain was 29% (P = 0.83, I2 = 0%). Four studies enrolled a total of 212 patients with IBS who received herbal placebo, and the stool improvement rate was 46% (P = 0.02 &lt; 0.05, I2 = 71%). The research locations and treatment duration were sources of heterogeneity (P &lt; 0.05).ConclusionThere is a significant herbal placebo response in patients with IBS. Different research locations and treatment durations are major sources of heterogeneity that may affect IBS patient response rates. The addition of a low dose of herbal ingredients when simulating an herbal placebo does not exaggerate the therapeutic effect of the placebo. There is a lack of uniformity and standardization in the preparation and evaluation of herbal placebos.
Network pharmacology, experimental validation and pharmacokinetics integrated strategy to reveal pharmacological mechanism of goutengsan on methamphetamine dependence
Authors: Li Han-Cheng , Li Jie-Yu , Wang Xing-Chen , Zeng Ming , Wu Yang-Kai , Chen Yi-Ling , Kong Cai-Hua , Chen Ke-Lin , Wu Jie-Ru , Mo Zhi-Xian , Zhang Jia-Xuan , Liu Chang-Shun 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundGoutengsan (GTS) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula that can improve multiple nervous system diseases, such as methamphetamine (MA) dependence. However, the mechanism how GTS treats MA dependence remains unclear. This study was aimed to investigate the action mechanism of GTS on MA dependence using network pharmacology, in vivo/in vitro experimental validation, pharmacokinetics, and tissue distribution in the brain.Materials and MethodsThe bioactive ingredients from GTS and possible targeted genes for treating MA dependence were predicted using network pharmacology. The binding of key components of GTS to the predicted proteins was studied using molecular docking, and the key components were verified by HPLC. The effects of GTS on an MA-induced model in rats and SH-SY5Y cells were studied. The regulatory effects of GTS on the expressions of predicted MAPK pathway-related proteins in rat brain tissues and SH-SY5Y cells were validated. Furthermore, the plasma exposure and brain tissue distribution of GTS ingredients for MA dependence treatment and MAPK pathway regulation were studied in mice.ResultsNetwork pharmacology screened 53 active ingredients, and 287 potential targets of GTS, and showed the MAPK pathway was among the most relevant pathways. Molecular docking showed that key active ingredients (e.g., 6-gingerol, liquiritin and rhynchophylline) bound strongly with MAPK core targets, such as MAPK3, and MAPK8. Five compounds of GTS were detected by HPLC, including 6-gingerol, chlorogenic acid, liquiritin, 5-o-methylviscumaboloside and hesperidin. GTS had a therapeutic effect on MA-dependent rats, and reduced hippocampal CA1 damage and relative expressions of p-MAPK3/MAPK3, p-MAPK8/MAPK8 in brain tissues induced by MA. GTS counteracted aberrant alterations in cAMP, 5-TH and cellular morphology induced by MA induction and exerts therapeutic effects on MA-induced SH-SY5Y cell models. GTS also can antagonize the high expressions of MAPK-related proteins in MA-induced SH-SY5Y cells. Pharmacokinetic experiment revealed the four ingredients of GTS (e.g., chlorogenic acid, 5-o-methylviscumaboloside, hesperidin and rhynchophylline) were exposed in the plasma and brain, which demonstrates its pharmacological effect on MA dependence.ConclusionGTS treats MA dependence by regulating the MAPK pathway via multiple bioactive ingredients. The network pharmacology, experimental validation and pharmacokinetics integrated strategy is efficient in discovering the key pharmacological mechanism of herbal formulae.
Warming altered the effect of cold stratification on the germination of Spartina alterniflora across climatic zones in its invasive range
Authors: Wu Fujia , Chen Xincong , Guo Yangping , Liu Wenwen , Zhang Yihui 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionCold stratification has a pronounced influence on seed germination, climate change is altering cold stratification regimes across climatic zones. Therefore, it is urgent to explore how seed germination from different geographic provenances responds to these changes. The invasive plant Spartina alterniflora spans three climatic zones along the Chinese coast, such distribution provides a natural temperature gradient to explore how warming alters the effects of cold stratification on germination. MethodsSpartina alterniflora seeds were collected from nine locations across three climatic zones in China from September to November in 2021. Seeds were planted in three common gardens with three latitude gradients of 21 °N, 28 °N, and 38 °N, after 0-month and 4-month cold stratification at 4 °C in November 2021 and March 2022, respectively. Each common garden simulated the natural temperature conditions and shield the plants from rain. ResultsResults showed that cold stratification led to explosive germination and rapidly reaching a plateau, shortened the germination time and improved the final germination rate. These effects were magnified from the high-latitude garden to the low-latitude one (i.e., warming). And the interactive effect of cold stratification and warming varied among provenances. For the subtropical and temperate provenances, the improvement in germination rate induced by cold stratification gradually increased from high-latitude garden to low-latitude one, while for tropical provenances, this difference progressively decreased. Discussion: Thus, our results indicated that subtropical and temperate provenances may migrate northward for adequate low temperatures to ensure high germination rate, because cold stratification can alleviate the negative impacts of warming on germination. For the tropical provenances, warming also suppressed the advantage that cold stratification provides in enhancing the germination rate, which may hinder their further spread southward. Our study contributes to understanding the responses of vegetation germination and recruitment across different climatic zones under global warming, providing insights for the distribution of cosmopolitan species and the management of exotic species.
The impact of early life experiences on inhibitory control and working memory
Authors: Dydenkova Eva , McGlone Francis , Mayorova Larisa , Nikolaeva Elena 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a general term for a large group of nonequivalent situations that have the potential to traumatise a child. This risk factor is caused by a sensitive period of brain development, which is based on myelination, creation of synaptic connections and pruning. Dramatic environmental events during this period, such as history of institutionalisation, can disrupt optimal developmental pathways, leaving biological scars for life.MethodsThe focus of this study was to investigate the impact of institutionalisation on the development of inhibitory control and working memory in three groups of children matched for age (n = 130; 7.1 ± 2.0 years): (1) early institutionalised (n = 35; age of placement: 6.9 ± 10.6 months; duration of placement: 14.6 ± 10.4 months); (2) late institutionalised (n = 29; age of placement: 49.3 ± 30.6 months; the duration of placement: 16.0 ± 19.4 months); (3) never institutionalised (n = 66).ResultsResults showed that the early institutionalised group had the lowest scores on tests of inhibitory control (p = 0.03), working memory (p = 0.03) and retrieval-based learning (p = 0.04), while the results of the group of late institutionalised children do not differ significantly from never institutionalised.DiscussionThe existence of a sensitive period during the first 18 months of a child’s life is discussed, which determines the formation of the retrieval-based learning mechanism and of inhibiting ineffective experience, for which executive functions are responsible.
Acceptability and exploratory effects of an occupational therapy intervention to improve recovery and return to work of workers with mental health disorders in primary care: a mixed methods study protocol
Authors: Labourot Justine , Hong Quan Nha , Briand Catherine , Cameron Cynthia , Durand Marie-José , Giguère Nadia , Marois Élyse , Menear Matthew , Trottier Marielle , Vasiliadis Helen-Maria , Vachon Brigitte 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundPeople with common mental disorders (CMD) are prone to experience work disabilities, which can lead to sick leave. To support their recovery and return to work, evidence recommends providing a combination of primary care services including psychological and work rehabilitation interventions. Furthermore, interventions to coordinate return to work are required to ensure timely access to services and concerted action among stakeholders. Occupational therapists are qualified to provide these interventions and to facilitate sick leave management. However, current medical practices, lack of collaboration among stakeholders, and lack of occupational therapists working within family medicine groups create highly variable care pathways and delays in access to appropriate services.AimThis study aims to evaluate the acceptability and explore the effects of an occupational therapist-led program integrated within family medicine groups designed to improve the management of CMD-related sick leave and promote patients' recovery and sustainable return to work in the Canadian province of Québec.MethodsThis study will consist of a mixed methods multiple case study design. It will also use a participatory research approach, actively engaging family medicine group team members and patient partners throughout the study. The occupational therapy program will include three components: 1) consultation for prevention of sick leave and support for return-to-work decisions, 2) coordination of recovery and return-to-work services, and 3) provision of recovery and work rehabilitation services adapted to each patient’s needs. Questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups will be used to collect data on the eight dimensions of the acceptability model described by Sekhon et al. and to measure pre- and post-outcomes to assess the effects of the occupational therapy program. Data will be analyzed using the Framework Method and repeated measures statistical analysis.DiscussionWe expect that the provision of this innovative occupational therapy program will improve patients’ outcomes and the service trajectory of people with CMD. This study will document how to enhance interprofessional collaboration within family medicine groups and to ensure equitable access to work rehabilitation services for all patients, thereby improving recovery and healthy sustainable return-to-work.