bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of IVUS-guided stent implantation in patients with complex CAD: a meta-analysis based on RCTs
Authors: Xu Anyi , Wang Dongying , Chen Bangsheng , Song Siyue , Zhang Qiufeng , Zhu Zuokun , Dai Min , Wang Chenyi 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundThis study is to investigate the efficacy of stent implantation in patients with complex coronary artery disease (CAD) under intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guidance and non-IVUS guidance.MethodsWe conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochran, and Embase for the articles of IVUS-guided and non-IVUS-guided stent implantation in patients with complex CAD and reported related outcomes. We included major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac death and other outcome indicators. Relative ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used for statistical analysis.ResultsA total of 5,173 subjects were included in 6 randomized control trials. The results showed that the incidence of MACE (RR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.49–0.82, P &lt; 0.001), cardiac death (RR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.44–0.85, P = 0.004), target vessel revascularization (TVR) (P = 0.01), target lesion revascularization (TLR) (P = 0.03) and stent thrombosis (ST) (P = 0.002) in the experimental group (IVUS-guidance) was lower than that in the control group (non-IVUS-guidance). However, no statistical difference was observed between the both groups in the incidence of MI (P = 0.13) and all-cause death (P = 0.41).ConclusionsCompared with the non-IVUS-guided group, IVUS-guided stent implantation may be more effective for patients with complex CAD.Systematic Review RegistrationPROSPERO [CRD42024531366].
The effect of trans-theoretical model stage-matched intervention on medication adherence in hypertensive patients
Authors: Saeidi Kamran , Ghavami Tina , Shahsavari Soodeh , Siabani Soraya , Rajati Fatemeh 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionHypertension is a chronic condition that requires active patient management and awareness of treatment strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention program grounded in the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) of behavior change for improving treatment adherence among hypertensive patients.Materials and methodsThis study conducted at the Nukan Comprehensive Rural Health Center in Kermanshah, Iran, 120 participants were selected according to specific inclusion criteria. Demographic data and responses to 20 hypertension-related behavior questions were collected via a questionnaire. Participants were categorized into non-adherence (pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation stages) and adherence categories (action and maintenance stages) based on self-reported medication adherence, with 60 individuals in each group. Each group was then randomly divided into intervention and control subgroups. The educational intervention consisted of four 45 min sessions grounded in TTM constructs regarding to health-related behaviors including Physical activity, salt and oil intake, and fruit and vegetable consumption, and medication adherence. Three months post-intervention, a follow-up questionnaire evaluated the educational impact on treatment adherence. The McNemar test and Chi-square test were utilized to analyze effects across the intervention, control, and pre- and post-intervention groups.ResultsThe participants had a mean age of 58.09 years (SD = 11.85). Three months after the intervention, the non-adherence intervention group showed significant progress in transitioning to the action and maintenance stages across all physical activity behaviors, as well as in salt, oil, fruit and vegetable intake, and medication adherence (P &lt; 0.005). In the adherence intervention group, after the intervention, the number of hypertensive patients who fell into the action and maintenance categories according to all lifestyle variables increased, but the change was not significant. Concerning blood pressure, the intervention group had a significant reduction in mean systolic blood pressure (142.88 ± 20.87 vs. 141.00 ± 18.52; p = 0.015), but the decrease in mean diastolic blood pressure was not significant (88.17 ± 10.30 vs. 87.58 ± 9.70; p = 0.154). No significant changes in systolic or diastolic blood pressure were observed in the control or in intervention groups within the adherence category.ConclusionThis research highlights the potential benefits of applying the TTM to tailor interventions for hypertensive patients with poor treatment adherence, suggesting that such an approach can enhance the efficacy of health education interventions.
Association between waist circumference or weight change after smoking cessation and incidence of cardiovascular disease or all-cause death in Korean adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Lee Heajung , Shin Jaeyong , Choi Jae Woo 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveTo investigate the association among smoking cessation, weight or waist circumference change post-cessation, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) or all-cause death among patients with type 2 Diabetes (T2D).Materials and methodsThis retrospective cohort study included 32,142 patients with T2D classified according to changes in smoking status, post-cessation weight, and waist circumference. Especially for recent or long-term quitters, participants who changed from current to none/former smoker or from non-smoker to former smoker were defined as recent quitters, and those who changed from former to none/former smoker were defined as long-term quitters. CVD or all-cause death risk was evaluated.ResultsA total of 5,845 participants were newly diagnosed with CVD, and 3,723 died during follow-up. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, compared with current smokers, the hazard ratios (HRs) for CVD were 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–1.03), 0.82 (95% CI: 0.74–0.90), and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.75–0.90) for recent quitters, long-term quitters, non-smokers, respectively; 0.88 (95% CI: 0.78–0.99), 0.68 (95% CI: 0.57–0.81), and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.67–1.00) for long-term quitters with no waist circumference gain, long-term quitters with waist circumference gain of 0.1–5.0 cm, and long-term quitters with waist circumference gain ≥5.0 cm, respectively; and 0.79 (95% CI: 0.71–0.89), 0.85 (95% CI: 0.74–0.98), and 0.84 (95% CI: 0.60–1.17) for long-term quitters with no weight gain, long-term quitters with weight gain of 2–5 kg, and long-term quitters with weight gain ≥5 kg, respectively. Similar associations were observed for all-cause death.ConclusionsPatients with T2D should maintain their weight and waist circumference after long-term smoking cessation to prevent CVD. It is more important for them to maintain weight rather than waist circumference to prevent all-cause death.
Body composition and perceived stress levels in transgender individuals after one year of gender affirming hormone therapy
Authors: Ceolin Chiara , Scala Alberto , Scagnet Bianca , Citron Anna , Vilona Federica , De Rui Marina , Miscioscia Marina , Camozzi Valentina , Ferlin Alberto , Sergi Giuseppe , Garolla Andrea ,   the GIIG group
Published: November 2024

IntroductionHigher stress levels are linked to increased body fat and decreased bone density, effects that can be exacerbated by lifestyle choices. This is particularly relevant for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals, who often face additional stress from transphobia and social stigma. However, there is limited research on how stress affects body composition and bone health in TGD individuals, particularly in relation to gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). This study examines the impact of perceived stress on these factors in TGD individuals before and after one year of GAHT, compared to a cisgender control group.MethodsThe study assessed 181 individuals, including 74 TGD participants (44 assigned female at birth [AFAB] and 30 assigned male at birth [AMAB]) and 107 controls (56 AFAB and 51 AMAB). Fifty-seven TGD participants completed follow-up one year after starting GAHT. Data collected included clinical history, blood tests, body composition, bone density, and quality of life assessments (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9] and Perceived Stress Scale [PSS]).ResultsAfter one year of GAHT, TGD AFAB individuals showed a bone mineral density (BMD) similar to cisgender AMAB individuals, while TGD AMAB individuals’ BMD remained significantly lower than cisgender controls. TGD AFAB individuals experienced increases in muscle strength (+8% from baseline), while TGD AMAB individuals showed a 24% increase in fat mass from baseline and an approximate 8% reduction in lean mass. PSS and PHQ scores, initially higher in TGD individuals, did not change significantly after one year of GAHT. A significant correlation was found between body fat percentage and PHQ and PSS scores at baseline and one year after GAHT, respectively.DiscussionThese findings reveal a complex relationship between GAHT, body composition, and perceived stress in TGD individuals, highlighting the need for further research on stress and health outcomes in this population.
Addressing inequities in research for early to mid-career women scientists in low- and middle-income countries: “Supporting Women in Science” programme
Authors: Das Jai K. , Raza Masooma , Padhani Zahra Ali , Hussain Narjis Fatima , Villar Jose , Kennedy Stephen , Bhutta Zulfiqar A. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe gender disparities and inequities faced by women in academia are widespread, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The scholarly output of women scientists remains significantly lower than that of men due to limited opportunities. This widening gap has significant implications for policy-making and prioritizing agendas. The Supporting Women in Science (SWIS) programme aims to address these barriers by enhancing research capacity among early- and mid-career women scientists from LMIC regions such as South-Central Asia and East Africa, in bespoke areas of health and health-related sustainable development goals (HHSDGs).MethodsThe SWIS programme utilizes online and distance learning with a self-paced approach. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, through a pre-defined eligibility criterion. Phase I involves online self-learning courses covering a core and elective curriculum over 6 months which is then evaluated in Phase II. Eligible candidates then move to Phase III, a mentored fellowship where they develop research proposals and receive funding for research project development, implementation, and evaluation. The rigorous reporting and monitoring mechanisms track compliance and progress. The online format, offered at no cost, enhances program accessibility, particularly in the post-COVID era. Additionally, SWIS prioritizes mentorship by selecting experienced professionals with strong research backgrounds and mentorship skills to guide participants. The programme evaluation will be based on selected success metrics including program completion ratio, funding opportunities availed by the participants, and generated scholarly output and presentations at key events.Discussion and conclusionSecuring grant funding is pivotal for career advancement, yet women applicants face greater challenges as compared to men. The SWIS programme not only equips participants with knowledge and skills but also facilitates practical application through a simulated process, enabling participants to pursue future funding opportunities. Capacity-building initiatives like SWIS are crucial interventions to empower women scientists, foster equitable representation in academia, and create inclusive research environments and the programme acts as a steppingstone for future global leaders.
PACAP/PAC1 regulation in cystitis rats: induction of bladder inflammation cascade leading to bladder dysfunction
Authors: Ke Hanwei , Zhu Lin , Zhang Weiyu , Wang Huanrui , Ding Zehua , Su Dongyu , Wang Qi , Xu Kexin 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionInterstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic and debilitating condition marked by bladder pain, urinary urgency, and frequency. The pathophysiology of IC/BPS remains poorly understood, with limited therapeutic options available. The role of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) and its receptor PAC1 in IC/BPS has not been thoroughly investigated, despite their potential involvement in inflammation and sensory dysfunction. This study aims to examine the expression and functional role of the PACAP/PAC1 signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of IC/BPS.MethodsBladder tissue samples from IC/BPS patients and a rat model of cystitis were analyzed to evaluate PACAP and PAC1 expression. Transcriptomic analysis, immunohistochemistry, and bladder function assays were employed to assess the correlation between PACAP/PAC1 activation, bladder inflammation, and sensory dysfunction. Additionally, modulation of the PACAP/PAC1 pathway was tested in rats to determine its effects on bladder inflammation and function.ResultsOur results demonstrate significant upregulation of PACAP and PAC1 in both human bladder tissues from IC/BPS patients and in the rat cystitis model. This upregulation was associated with increased bladder inflammation and sensory dysfunction. Intervention with PACAP/PAC1 pathway modulation in rats resulted in a marked reduction in bladder inflammation and improvement in bladder function, suggesting the pathway’s pivotal role in disease progression.DiscussionThe findings provide compelling evidence that the PACAP/PAC1 pathway is involved in the inflammatory and sensory changes observed in IC/BPS. By targeting this signaling pathway, we may offer a novel therapeutic approach to mitigate the symptoms of IC/BPS. This study enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving IC/BPS and opens avenues for the development of targeted treatments.
Vascular endothelial growth factor as a potential biomarker in systemic sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Mangoni Arduino A. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionSystemic sclerosis (SSc), a chronic autoimmune condition, is characterized by microvascular dysfunction, ineffective angiogenesis, and fibrosis. The identification of robust biomarkers reflecting these processes may assist in clinical management and lead to the discovery of new therapies. We sought to address this issue by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies investigating one such biomarker, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), in SSc patients and healthy controls and in SSc patients with localized or diffuse disease, different video capillaroscopy patterns (early, active, or late), and presence or absence of complications.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to 15 May 2024. We assessed the risk of bias and the certainty of evidence using the JBI checklist for analytical studies and GRADE, respectively.ResultsIn 42 eligible studies, compared to controls, patients with SSc had significantly higher plasma or serum VEGF concentrations (standard mean difference, SMD=0.93, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.15, p&lt;0.001; moderate certainty). In further analyses, VEGF concentrations were significantly higher in SSc patients with diffused disease than those with localized disease (SMD=0.30, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.59, p=0.046; very low certainty), in patients with late vs. active video capillaroscopy pattern (SMD=0.35, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.61, p=0.008; very low certainty), and in patients with pulmonary hypertension than those without (SMD=0.93, 95% CI 0.34 to 1.53, p=0.002; very low certainty). By contrast, no significant differences were observed between SSc patients with and without digital ulcers, interstitial lung disease, and telangiectasias, whereas limited evidence was available for alveolitis. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis of studies investigating VEGF in SSc patients and controls showed no significant associations between the effects size and various patient and study characteristics, including SSc duration and use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressors and vasodilators. By contrast, significant associations were observed with the geographical location where the study was conducted.DiscussionThe results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that VEGF can be useful in the assessment and management of SSc and in the identification of novel therapeutic strategies in this patient group.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42024552925.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia increases the 3-months mortality of anti-MDA5-antibody-positive dermatomyositis patients
Authors: Gao Congcong , Wei Gaohui , Zhang Chunyi , Wang Chenqiong , Li Chaoying , Li Ruxu , Su Zhaohui , Zheng Zhaohui 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundAnti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 antibody-positive dermatomyositis (anti-MDA5+DM) patients are associated with considerable mortality, and opportunistic infections including Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP)is the main cause. This study was to identify clinical characteristics, risk factors, and prognostic factors of PJP diagnosed by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in anti-MDA5+ DM patients.MethodsIn this retrospective observational study, all patients admitted with suspected pneumonia were detected for mNGS in BALF. The demographics, comorbidities, laboratory parameters, and treatments of the patients were compared and analyzed in both groups to identify the potential risk factors for PJP and death via Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression, respectively.ResultsOverall, 92 patients were included in this study, 46(50.0%) were defined as PJP+ group, and the other 46 (50.0%) as PJP- group, and 31(67.4%) PJP occurred in the first 3 months. Increased neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and CRP were independent risk factors for PJP occurrence, while trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMZ) prophylaxis was an independent protective factor (all p&lt;0.05). The three-months mortality rate was higher in the PJP+ group compared to PJP- group (43.5% vs 23.9%, p=0.047). Rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RPILD) was a main predictor of mortality in anti-MDA5+DM patients with PJP, whereas glucocorticoid use was a significant protective factor.ConclusionsPJP has high prevalence and mortality in anti-MDA5+DM, while TMP/SMZ prophylaxis significantly reduces PJP risk. Mortality in PJP+ patients is primarily concentrated within the first 3 months, associated with RPILD. Early intervention with corticosteroids and prophylactic measures are crucial in reducing mortality.
Mucosal vaccination with outer membrane vesicles derived from Bordetella pertussis reduces nasal bacterial colonization after experimental infection
Authors: Rudi E. , Gaillard E. , Bottero D. , Ebensen T. , Guzman C. A. , Hozbor Daniela 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionWe previously identified Bordetella pertussis-derived outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) as a promising immunogen for improving pertussis vaccines. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of our vaccine prototype in immunization strategies aimed at reducing disease transmission by targeting colonization in the upper airways while maintaining protection against severe disease by reducing colonization in the lower respiratory tract.MethodsWe assessed different mucosal administration strategies in a murine model, including homologous mucosal 2-dose prime-boost schedules and heterologous prime-boost strategies combining intramuscular (IM) systemic immunization with mucosal routes (intranasal, IN; or sublingual, SL). We utilized alum and c-di-AMP as adjuvants for the systemic and mucosal formulations of the OMV vaccine prototype, respectively. A homologous prime/boost IM immunization schedule and commercial vaccines were used for comparisons.ResultsAll tested heterologous schemes induced higher levels of specific IgG with significant avidity, as well as higher levels of IgG1 and IgG2c, compared to the corresponding homologous prime-boost 2-dose schemes via mucosal routes (OMVIN-IN or OMVSL-SL). High IgA levels were observed post-B. pertussis challenge following OMVIN-IN treatments and heterologous treatments where the second dose was administered via a mucosal route (prime-pull scheme). Furthermore, schemes involving the intranasal route, whether in a homologous or heterologous scheme, induced the highest levels of IL-17 and IFN-γ. Accordingly, these schemes showed superior efficacy against nasal colonization than the commercial vaccines. Homologous intranasal immunization exhibited the highest protective capacity against nasal colonization while maintaining an excellent level of protection in the lower respiratory tract. To further enhance protection against nasal colonization, we performed a comparative analysis of formulations containing either single or combined adjuvants, administered via homologous intranasal route. These assays revealed that the use of alum combined with c-di-AMP, did not enhance the immune protective capacity in comparison with that observed for the formulation containing c-di-AMP alone.ConclusionsAll the experiments presented here demonstrate that the use of OMVs, regardless of the scheme applied (except for OMVSL-SL), significantly outperformed acellular pertussis (aP) vaccines, achieving a higher reduction in bacterial colonization in the upper respiratory tract (p&lt;0.01).
Protective effect of Bletilla ochracea Schltr. against acetogenic gastric ulcer in rats based on non-targeted metabolomics
Authors: Fang Rongze , Zeng Qi , Tang Xiusheng 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundGastric ulcer (GU), a globally prevalent disease, represents a significant burden to human health. Bletilla ochracea Schltr. (BOS), an herbal medicine, shows promising therapeutic potential in the treatment of chronic GU.MethodsThis study utilized a rat model of chronic gastric ulceration induced by acetic acid to evaluate the protective effects of Bletilla ochracea Schltr. (BOS) on gastric tissue through the analysis of gross morphological and histopathological changes. Non-targeted metabolomic techniques were employed to identify differential metabolites, followed by the use of metabolic analysis software to enrich the pathways associated with these metabolites, thereby revealing the potential mechanisms underlying the anti-gastric ulcer effects of BOS.ResultsThe results suggest that the primary mechanism underlying BOS regulation of GU involves modulation of endogenous metabolites, including dimethylglycine, l-2,4-diaminobutyric acid, uridine propionic acid and l-asparagine. These diverse metabolites may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and reparative properties. In addition, KEGG enrichment analysis indicated potential anti-GU effects of BOS through diverse pathways such as energy metabolism, immune metabolism and amino acid metabolism.ConclusionThe study demonstrates BOS protective effects on GU in rats, potentially through modulating key metabolites and pathways, highlighting its therapeutic potential and warranting further investigation for clinical applications.