bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Riedel’s thyroiditis: A case report and review of the ultrasound findings of this rare disease entity
Authors: Michell Kevin , Hall Suzannah , Ali Zainab Alshiekh , Al-Hashim Muhannah , Howlett David C 
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Riedel’s thyroiditis is a rare inflammatory disease of the thyroid with non-specific and varied presentations. A typical presentation and ultrasound findings are reported in this case. Case Report: A 68-year-old male is referred to Ear, Nose and Throat for a neck lump that varied in size over 2 years. An ultrasound scan identified a suspicious nodule on the left thyroid that was biopsied confirming the diagnosis of Riedel’s thyroiditis. Discussion: The aetiology, presentation and management of Riedel’s thyroiditis are explored. The use of ultrasound and the utility of other imaging and biochemical tests are discussed. Conclusion: Riedel’s thyroiditis is a difficult condition to diagnose due to rarity, varied presentation, with non-specific clinical, biochemical and radiographic findings which often mimic thyroid cancers. Definitive diagnosis of Riedel’s thyroiditis requires histological analysis, and while fine-needle aspirations are typically insufficient, diagnostic samples can be taken with ultrasound-guided core biopsies.
Link between post-stroke psychopathology and scope-of-action awareness
Authors: Stahl Benjamin , Becker Kristina , Kocyigit Kevser , Denzler Petra , Röder Paula 
Published: October 2024

Background: Epidemiological research has failed to confirm laterality of lesion site as a neurobiological source of post-stroke psychopathology. However, acquired communication disorders have proved to be a key risk factor for depression, apart from established parameters such as pre-stroke psychopathology and physical immobility. Objectives: The present work examines a new predictor of post-stroke psychopathology: psychological flexibility. This concept describes an accepting attitude toward irreversible loss following stroke while using remaining agency. Design: Overall, 70 individuals engaged in a cross-sectional study conducted in the subacute stage after an ischemic or hemorrhagic event, a period with elevated prevalence of mental-health problems (2 weeks to 6 months after stroke). Methods: Outcomes included standardized self-report and clinician-rated measures of depression, anxiety disorders, and general psychopathology (Beck Depression Inventory; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; ICD-10 Symptom Rating; Hamilton Depression Rating Scale) alongside lack of psychological flexibility (Acceptance and Action Questionnaire II). The study design controlled for pre-stroke psychopathology and physical immobility (Barthel Index). Results: Partial correlation analyses revealed a significant medium-to-large association between the entire set of clinical outcomes and lack of psychological flexibility ( r ⩽ 0.62, p < 0.001). In moderator analyses, the magnitude of this association did not vary significantly with diagnosis of acquired communication disorders (i.e., aphasia, apraxia of speech or dysarthria; separately or combined). Conclusion: The current results demonstrate a substantial link between post-stroke psychopathology and psychological flexibility. This finding opens new avenues for research on depression and other mental-health problems in stroke survivors with and without acquired communication disorders. Registration: www.drks.de ; identifier: DRKS00031204
The Antiviral Potential of a Natural Compound for COVID-19: A Review of the Current Findings
Authors: Jafari-Ardakan Zahra , Arefnezhad Reza , Rezaei-Tazangi Fatemeh 
Published: October 2024

Objective Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a novel viral disease originating from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a life-threatening disease with dramatic morbidity and mortality globally. In this review, we aim to discuss the current evidence showing that the Imam Kazem drug, a natural compound that comprises Foeniculum vulgare, Terminalia chebula, Pistacia lentiscus, and red sugar, may be a therapeutic candidate in the fight against COVID-19 infection. Methods This literature review was performed by searching related words, including “ Imam Kazem drug,” “ Foeniculum vulgare,” “ Terminalia chebula,” “ Pistacia lentiscus,” “ Red sugar,” “Natural compounds,” “Traditional medicine,” “Coronaviruses,” “Antiviral,” “COVID-19,” “SARS-CoV-2,” in different databases like Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scientific Information Databases until 2023. Results The current documents underscore that the Imam Kazem drug may be safe and effective against COVID-19. This natural compound, thanks to its constituents, may affect the pathogenic occurrence related to the disease, such as attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation-associated occurrences by different mechanisms, like scavenging free radicals, enhancing the function of antioxidant enzymes, and attenuating cytokine storm. Moreover, the Imam Kazem drug can exert its antiviral ability mainly by suppressing viral replication and blocking glycosaminoglycan binding sites. However, more preclinical and clinical evidence is required to support these results. Conclusion Imam Kazem drug may have a therapeutic capacity for patients with COVID-19 infection.
Seaweed Milk Food Supplement Produced from Hydropuntia eucheumatoides (Harvey)
Authors: Trung Vo Thanh , Huynh Tran Van , Khoa Truong Anh , Thuy Doan Thi 
Published: October 2024

Objective / Background Hydropuntia eucheumatoides (HE) seaweed is widely distributed in tropical seas and is a common food for coastal people. Our objectives were to prepare seaweed milk from HE, and test is possible utility as a food supplement and source of antioxidants that has an appropriate sensory profile. Methods We used an enzyme from Lactobacillus strains for polysaccharide hydrolysis into HE seaweed milk food supplements. We cultured five Lactobacillus strains with appropriate agarase, cellulase, and amylase enzyme activities. Results We optimized the enzyme concentration (mass of seaweed HE: 40 g/L), substrate concentration (2 mL enzyme/g seaweed), temperature (50 °C), pH (5), and hydrolysis time (96 h). The hydrolyzate included oligosaccharides, monosaccharides, amino acids, and minerals. The product exhibited excellent sensory details and is likely to be safe for consumption. Conclusions We completed our objectives. Our product is ready for initial consumer sensory testing.
Making Sense of Topical Pain Relief Options: Comparing Topical Analgesics in Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Smith Andrew Clark , Smith M. Seth , Roach Ryan P. , Prine Bryan R. , Moser Michael W. , Farmer Kevin W. , Clugston James R. 
Published: October 2024

Context: In patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, pain is the leading contributor to disability and significantly limits mobility and dexterity. This narrative review describes the efficacy and safety of topical analgesics in common use today. Evidence Acquisition: Secondary literature gained via a literature search using PubMed.gov and the Cochrane library were used. Study Design: Recent literature (2000-2023) on several major classes of topical analgesics and topical delivery systems were reviewed to provide strength of recommendation taxonomy (SORT) levels. A total of 86 articles were reviewed. Level of Evidence: Level 2. Results: Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cabbage leaf wraps (CLW) appear to be best suited for multiple types of acute MSK pain, and topical nitroglycerin is helpful when used specifically for rotator cuff pain in patients seeking relief while performing activities of daily living and willing to treat for long periods of time. For compounded topical formulations, it may be better to offer single agent creams based on patient preferences. Little data support the use of cryotherapy. Traumeel could be a promising natural analgesic that compares with diclofenac. Topical lidocaine appears best suited for postherpetic neuropathic pain. O24 is a reasonable alternative with a low risk profile to treat pain in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. Conclusion: Choice of topical agents should be guided by current evidence accounting for type of pain, medication side effects, patient comorbidities, as well as patient preference, convenience, and cost. Strength-of-Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT): Of the topical analgesics and modalities reviewed, SORT level A evidence was found for topical NSAID use in decreasing MSK pain, topical lidocaine for postherpetic neuralgia, and nitroglycerin patches for treating rotator cuff pain if used for prolonged periods of time. Alternative treatments such as CLW and Traumeel show promising results (SORT level B).
Personalized online intervention based on a risk algorithm for the universal prevention of anxiety disorders: Design and development of the prevANS intervention
Authors: Martínez-Vispo Carmela , García-Huércano Cristina , Conejo-Cerón Sonia , Rodríguez-Morejón Alberto , Moreno-Peral Patricia 
Published: October 2024

Objective To describe the design and development of prevANS, a personalized online intervention for the universal prevention of anxiety disorders based on a predictive risk algorithm. A user-centered approach was followed, considering the feedback of potential users and mental health professionals. Methods The study had three phases: (a) designing the intervention based on existing scientific literature; (b) piloting and evaluating the beta version involving potential users and health professionals; and (c) refining the intervention based on participants’ suggestions. This iterative process aimed to refine the prevANS intervention before testing in a randomized controlled trial. Results The prevANS intervention provides personalized anxiety risk reports and components tailored to individuals’ needs. Participants at low risk receive psychoeducation had access to a set of tools enhance protective factors. Moderate/high-risk individuals also receive cognitive-behavioral training. Both groups have access to a reward system and forum. Results from the design evaluation indicate that the prevANS interface is attractive and user-friendly and the psychoeducational materials helpful and engaging. The cognitive-behavioral training module received positive feedback. Participants suggested changes related to usability, content clarity, attractiveness, and engagement, which were implemented afterwards. Conclusions This article describes the development of a personalized intervention for preventing anxiety disorders using a validated risk prediction algorithm. The prevANS intervention was designed based on current scientific literature by a team of experts employing a user-centered approach. Research on the effectiveness of information and communication technologies in mental health prevention interventions considering user needs and preferences is warranted.
Exploring Asian maternal experiences and mHealth needs for postpartum mental health care
Authors: Kamarudin Siti Sabrina , Idris Idayu Badilla , Ahmad Norfazilah , Sharip Shalisah 
Published: October 2024

Background Mental health care during the postpartum period is notably underexplored within Asian demographics, with barriers such as stigma, privacy concerns, logistical challenges, and a shortage of mental health professionals that limits access to optimal mental healthcare. Previous studies found that mobile health (mHealth) technology has been offering a promising solution to these issues. However, the perspectives of mothers on existing mental health services and their mHealth needs are still not well understood and warrant further exploration. Objective This study aimed to explore the postpartum experiences of Malaysian mothers with postpartum depression (PPD) symptoms and their perspectives on using an mHealth technology to improve mental health care during the postpartum period. Methods We carried out in-depth interviews with six mothers, which were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Collaborative discussions and consensus were employed to enhanced reliability. Findings Five main themes related to mothers’ postpartum experiences and perspectives emerged, namely, the existing circumstances of mothers, psychosociological reactions, maternal needs, innovation of care, and suggestions for pragmatic mHealth elements. These themes emphasized the emotional challenges of meeting societal, cultural, and personal expectations. The essential resources identified to be included in the mHealth technology were education on PPD, professional guided self-care, cognitive restructuring, validation of diverse infant feeding practices, and fostering partner support. Furthermore, interactive mHealth features such as mood trackers, notifications, platforms to share, and motivational tools aimed at elevating maternal well-being were also sought. Conclusions Mothers expressed a desire for mHealth services emphasizing the need for these educational tools to be culturally sensitive, accommodating local language and religious practices, and offering support during confinement, to effectively address the unique needs of postpartum mothers. This study highlights the importance of prioritizing practical mHealth interventions as strategic support services to enhance positive postpartum mental care in resource-stricken countries.
Antithrombotic drugs for carotid artery dissection: Updated systematic review
Authors: Avramiotis Nikolaos S , Schaub Fabian , Thilemann Sebastian , Lyrer Philippe , Engelter Stefan T 
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Extracranial internal carotid artery dissection (eICAD) is a leading cause of stroke in younger patients. In this Cochrane Review update we compared benefits and harms of eICAD-patients treated with either antiplatelets or anticoagulants. Patients and methods: Eligible studies were identified through Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE and personal search until December 2023. We included randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies comparing anticoagulants with antiplatelets in eICAD-patients. Co-primary outcomes were (i) death (all causes) and (ii) death or disability. Secondary outcomes were ischemic stroke, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and major extracranial hemorrhage. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% CIs were calculated for (i) all studies and (ii) separately for RCTs and non-randomized studies. Results: We meta-analyzed a total of 42 studies (2624 patients) including 2 RCTs (213 patients) for the primary outcome of death and 31 studies (1953 patients) including 1 RCT (115 patients) for the primary outcome of death or disability. Antiplatelet-treated patients had higher odds for death (ORall-studies 2.70, 95% CI 1.27–5.72; ORRTCs 6.80, 95% CI 0.14–345; ORnon-randomized studies 2.60, 95% CI 1.20–5.60) and death or disability (ORall-studies 2.1, 95% CI 1.58–2.66; ORRTCs 2.2, 95% CI 0.29–16.05; ORnon-randomized studies 2.1, 95% CI 1.58–2.66) than anticoagulated patients. Antiplatelet-treated patients had also higher odds for ischemic stroke, though this reached statistical significance only in the subgroup of RCTs (ORRTC 4.60, 95% CI 1.36–15.51). In turn, antiplatelet-treated patients had less symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ORall-studies 0.25, 95% CI 0.07–0.86) and a tendency toward less major extracranial hemorrhage (ORall-studies 0.17, 95% CI 0.03–1.03). Discussion and conclusion: The evidence considering antiplatelets as standard of care in eICAD is weak. Individualized treatment decisions balancing risks versus harms seem recommendable.
Intravenous thrombolysis or antiplatelet therapy for acute nondisabling ischemic stroke: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Lun François , Palaiodimou Lina , Katsanos Aristeidis H , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Turc Guillaume 
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Uncertainties remain on the optimal treatment for acute minor stroke with nondisabling symptoms. The two most common therapeutic approaches are intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and antiplatelet therapy, notably dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). We synthesized data from the literature to compare IVT to DAPT and identify the best treatment for this population. Method: We systematically searched Pubmed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library for randomized trials and observational studies comparing IVT, aspirin, and/or DAPT, started within 24 h of symptom onset in patients with minor stroke (NIHSS ⩽ 5) and nondisabling symptoms. Random-effects Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted. The primary outcome was excellent functional outcome at 3 months (mRS 0–1). Secondary outcomes included mRS 0–2, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, mortality, and recurrent stroke. Findings: Four randomized trials and 2 observational studies (5897 patients for the analysis of the primary outcome) were included. Compared with IVT (alteplase), DAPT (clopidogrel + aspirin) was significantly associated with higher odds of mRS 0–1 (OR = 1.52, 95% CrI, 1.09–2.35), but aspirin alone was not (OR = 1.36, 95% CrI, 0.87–2.30). DAPT was also associated with lower odds of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage than alteplase (OR = 0.14, 95% CrI, 0.03–0.91). There were no significant differences between treatment groups regarding the other outcomes. For each outcome, the ranking for the best treatment was DAPT, then aspirin, and then IVT. Discussion/Conclusion: This network meta-analysis suggests that DAPT may be the optimal treatment for acute nondisabling stroke, with higher odds of excellent functional outcome compared with IVT. Registration: PROSPERO ID: CRD42024522038
Mechanistic role of mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Varzideh Fahimeh , Wang Brandon , Qin Yifei , Kansakar Urna , Santulli Gaetano , Jankauskas Stanislovas S. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractMesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) is a protein crucial for cellular stress response and survival, particularly in the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Unlike traditional neurotrophic factors, MANF primarily regulates endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and protects cells by reducing ER stress-induced apoptosis. MANF operates both inside and outside cells, influencing key pathways like JAK/STAT and NF-κB to enhance cell survival during stress. Beyond its neuroprotective role, MANF is also vital in cardiovascular protection, mitigating damage by reducing inflammation and maintaining cellular function. Elevated MANF levels have been observed in patients experiencing myocardial infarction and murine models of ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury, highlighting its importance in these conditions. Overexpression of MANF in cardiomyocytes reduces ER-stress-induced cell death, while its depletion worsens this effect. Treatment with recombinant MANF (rMANF) has been shown to improve cardiac function in mice with I/R injury by decreasing infarct size and inflammation. Research also indicates that alterations in the α1-helix region of MANF can impact its structure, expression, secretion, and overall function. Given its protective effects and involvement in critical signaling pathways, MANF is being explored as a potential therapeutic target for ER stress-related diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders and cardiovascular conditions like myocardial I/R injury.
Exosomes derived from apical papilla stem cells improve NASH by regulating fatty acid metabolism and reducing inflammation
Authors: Nie Yifei , Meng Wenqing , Liu Duanqin , Yang Ziqing , Wang Wenhao , Ren Huiping , Mao Kai , Lan Weipeng , Li Chuanhua , Wang Zhifeng , Lan Jing 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Apical papilla stem cells (SCAPs) exhibit significant potential for tissue repair, characterized by their anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic properties. Exosomes derived from stem cells have emerged as safer alternatives that retain comparable physiological functions. This study explores the therapeutic potential of exosomes sourced from SCAPs in the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Methods
A NASH mouse model was established through the administration of a high-fat diet (HFD), and SCAPs were subsequently isolated for experimental purposes. A cell model of NASH was established in vitro by treating hepatocellular carcinoma cells with oleic acid (OA) and palmitic acid (PA). Exosomes were isolated via differential centrifugation. The mice were treated with exosomes injected into the tail vein, and the hepatocytes were incubated with exosomes in vitro. After the experiment, physiological and biochemical markers were analyzed to assess the effects of exosomes derived from SCAPs on the progression of NASH in both NASH mouse models and NASH cell models.

Results
After exosomes treatment, the weight gain and liver damage induced by HFD were significantly reduced. Additionally, hepatic fat accumulation was markedly alleviated. Mechanistically, exosomes treatment promoted the expression of genes involved in hepatic fatty acid oxidation and transport, while simultaneously suppressing genes associated with fatty acid synthesis. Furthermore, the levels of serum inflammatory cytokines and the mRNA expression of inflammatory markers in liver tissue were significantly decreased. In vitro cell experiments produced similar results.
Measuring undergraduate evolution learning using the CANS: psychometric strengths and limitations
Authors: Zuckerman Austin L. , Sbeglia Gena 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Evolution continues to be one of the most difficult biological topics to teach, warranting innovative pedagogical tools and assessment strategies for enhancing evolutionary instruction. A major advance in measuring the evolution knowledge of undergraduate students came with the development of the Conceptual Assessment of Natural Selections (CANS). In this study, we use the CANS to measure knowledge and learning of natural selection in a large (N > 6000) sample of undergraduate students to expand upon prior validity testing of this instrument and advance knowledge of student evolutionary reasoning. We apply the Rasch measurement framework to examine if the CANS productively measures the intended construct and investigate the patterns of knowledge and learning about evolution among students with different backgrounds and demographic characteristics.

Results
While a unidimensional Rasch model demonstrated acceptable reliabilities and fit for most of the CANS items, some items showed problematic fit statistics and were resistant to instruction. The instrument items also did not span the full range of student abilities, which suggests relatively low measurement precision. Our large sample also allowed rigorous tests of multidimensionality, revealing the presence of multiple dimensions or constructs, some of which may not be intentional. These results generated specific item-level recommendations for improving this instrument. Using Rasch measures to examine learning patterns, we found that pre-test evolution knowledge was low but that there were high learning gains by the end of the course. However, some concept categories were found to be more difficult than others, suggesting the need for more attention to these areas by instructors. We also identified pre-test disparities in evolutionary knowledge by socially defined race and biological sex, yet students from all groups achieved comparable learning gains at the end of the course.

Conclusion
The CANS holds great potential to generate critical insights about student evolutionary reasoning and provide information about which instructional approaches most effectively mitigate the notable knowledge disparities among students. We leverage the findings of this study to propose tangible ways in which this instrument may be improved in order to better achieve both of these goals.