bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of baicalin and components of Scutellaria baicalensis on renal fibrosis of diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Li Jiarui , Zhuang Yuan , Fan Guoyong , Wang Simeng , Yan Enhui , Guo Jianpeng , Zhang Chi , Jiang Shicui 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundFibrosis is key in the development and progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Baicalin (BA), wogonin (WGN), and wogonoside (WGS) have renoprotective effects. The mechanism of alleviation of DKD progression, by improving renal fibrosis, is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms and effects of a Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. (Lamiaceae) mixture (MIX, WGN:BA:WGS = 4:2:1) on DKD in a spontaneous DKD model.MethodsMale db/m mice were controls, and db/db mice were diabetes models. Both groups received daily oral gavage of normal saline. Treatment groups received daily oral gavage of BA or MIX (20 mg/kg) for 10 weeks. Biochemical indicators and kidney lesions were assessed. Fibrosis-related proteins were detected by immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR.ResultsMIX significantly reduced body weight (40.97 ± 1.43 vs. 42.26 ± 1.60), improved insulin sensitivity (63.70 ± 8.98 vs. 109.48 ± 0.69), lowered the renal hypertrophy index (19.81 ± 2.86 vs. 28.94 ± 0.256), and decreased blood urea nitrogen levels (7.57 ± 0.79 vs. 9.57 ± 0.38) and the urine protein/creatinine ratio (0.50 ± 0.06 vs. 0.80 ± 0.18). MIX also enhanced lipid profiles and renal function by improving renal tubular dilation, restoring renal structures, and reducing glomerulosclerosis, basal membrane thickening, and glycogen deposition. These effects were achieved by reducing the protein and gene expression of collagen II (Col-II), connective tissue growth factor, and collagen I (Col-I).ConclusionMIX inhibits the transforming growth factor-β/Smads signaling pathway, thus alleviating renal fibrosis, and can be used to develop a treatment for DKD.
Nocturnal hypoxia in patients with sleep disorders: exploring its role as a mediator between neurotic personality traits and psychological symptoms
Authors: Jiang Fei , Huang Jinsong , Fan Lijun , Dong Xiaoyan , Yang Chunyan , Zhou Wenzhu 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionSleep disorders often coexist with personality and psychological issues, alongside nocturnal hypoxia. This study investigates the potential mediating role of nocturnal hypoxia between personality traits and psychological symptoms in individuals with sleep disorders.MethodsA cohort comprising 171 participants reporting sleep disturbances was recruited from Dalian Seventh People’s Hospital. Psychological symptoms were assessed using the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R), while personality traits were evaluated using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ). Nocturnal hypoxia status was determined through overnight polysomnography.ResultsMediation analysis, conducted using SPSS 23.0, demonstrated that the cumulative time of nocturnal peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) &lt; 85% (T85) partially mediated the relationship between neuroticism and various psychological symptoms, including somatization (c=0.207, c’=0.164, a*b=0.043, proportion of mediation 20.8%), interpersonal sensitivity (c=0.360, c’=0.326, a*b=0.034, proportion of mediation 9.6%), depression (c=0.277, c’=0.234, a*b=0.042, proportion of mediation 15.3%), anxiety (c=0.240, c’=0.199, a*b=0.041, proportion of mediation 16.9%), hostility (c=0.241, c’=0.205, a*b=0.036, proportion of mediation 14.9%), phobic anxiety (c=0.271, c’=0.241, a*b=0.030, proportion of mediation 11.1%), and psychoticism (c=0.298, c’=0.266, a*b=0.032, proportion of mediation 10.8%).DiscussionThese findings underscore the potential mediating role of nocturnal hypoxia in the association between neuroticism personality traits and psychological symptoms among individuals with sleep disorders. Our research holds considerable significance in advancing the quest for personalized treatments targeting psychological symptoms in individuals with sleep disorders.
Development of a remote implementation support strategy to enhance integration of depression treatment into primary care settings in rural India
Authors: Pedersen Gloria A. , Haney Juliana Restivo , Singh Abhishek , Choubey Shivangi , Bondre Ameya , Vorapanya Vorapat , Bhan Anant , Tugnawat Deepak , Patel Vikram , Naslund John A. , Ramaswamy Rohit 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionContextually responsive implementation support strategies are needed to enhance the integration of mental health services into primary health care. Technical assistance is widely used as a core “capacity building” strategy, primarily for increasing the motivation and capacity of individuals (e.g., frontline workers) to adopt evidence-based interventions in healthcare settings. This article documents the systematic design of a technical assistance strategy for supporting primary care staff (e.g., nurses) in integrating depression care, from screening to treatment, aligned with a non-communicable disease program across seven health facilities in the Sehore District of Madhya Pradesh, India.MethodsWe conducted a mapping exercise of local health facilities with dedicated staff and a literature review to inform the development of the technical assistance strategy.ResultsReporting guidelines guided the structure of the strategy protocol. The evidence-supported strategy, called Remote Coaching Support, is tailored to the local setting. It uses quality improvement methods like the Plan-Do-Act-Study cycle and training materials to help coaches deliver support remotely via video/phone-based calls and WhatsApp messaging with the overall goal of increasing uptake and fidelity of depression screening and referral among primary care staff in alignment with an existing non-communicable diseases program.ConclusionThe development of Remote Coaching Support involved iterative improvements through team meetings and practice-training feedback, though limitations exist due to a lack of systematic implementation standards, especially in this setting. This strategy will be tested in increasing scales to refine its application, with effectiveness and acceptability results to be evaluated in a randomized control trial.
Association between excessive screen time and falls, with additional risk from insufficient sleep duration in children and adolescents, a large cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Zhang Runquan , Zhu Haiyuan , Xiao Qin , Wu Qiqi , Jin Yuqing , Liu Tao , Liu Dan , Cui Chunxia , Dong Xiaomei 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveFalls is a major global public health issue that occur in all age groups. However, the association between screen time, sleep duration and falls in children and adolescents remains unclear.MethodsThis study included children and adolescents who participated in the 2017 Nutrition and Health Surveillance of Children and Lactating Mothers in China. Screen time, sleep duration and falls in the past 12 months were assessed using baseline questionnaires completed by the participants. We utilized a multivariate logistic regression model to estimate the association between screen time, sleep duration, and falls in children and adolescents. Stratified analyses and sensitivity analyses were performed using the same modelling strategies.ResultsA total of 564 participants (5.7%) self-reported falls in the past 12 months. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that high screen time (&gt; 2 h per day) was associated with a higher incidence of falls (cOR:1.46, 95% CI: 1.22–1.74, p &lt; 0.001). The combination of high screen time and low sleep duration was associated with an increased risk of falls compared to the recommended low screen time and high sleep duration group (cOR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.25–2.09, p &lt; 0.001). After adjusting for relevant covariates, the associations remained significant (aOR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.08–1.56, p = 0.006; aOR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.10–1.87, p = 0.008).ConclusionOur study demonstrates that both high screen time and the combination of high screen time and low sleep duration were associated with an increased risk of falls. Interventions to promote healthy physical development should commence in early childhood to decrease the incidence of fall injuries in children and adolescents.
Analysis of risk factors for sepsis-related liver injury and construction of a prediction model
Authors: He Yong , Wang Chi , He Wan , Zhang He , Ding Fei , Liu Ying , He He , Ying Binwu , Nie Xin 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundSepsis is a leading cause of mortality in critically ill patients, and the liver is a key organ affected by sepsis. Sepsis-related liver injury (SRLI) is an independent risk factor for multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and mortality. However, there is no clear diagnostic standard for SRLI, making early detection and intervention challenging.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the predictive value of serum indices for the occurrence of SRLI in adults to guide clinical practice.MethodsIn this study, we investigated the predictive value of serum indices for SRLI in adults. We retrospectively analyzed data from 1,573 sepsis patients admitted to West China Hospital, Sichuan University, from January 2015 to December 2019. Patients were divided into those with and without liver injury. Stepwise logistic regression identified independent risk factors for SRLI, and a predictive model was constructed. The model’s diagnostic efficacy was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.ResultsOur results showed that alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), carbon dioxide combining power (CO2-CP), antithrombin III (AT III), fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products (FDP), and red blood cell distribution width (RDW-CV) were independent predictors of SRLI. The area under the curve (AUC) of the predictive model was 0.890, with a sensitivity of 80.0% and a specificity of 82.91%, indicating excellent diagnostic value.ConclusionIn conclusion, this study developed a highly accurate predictive model for SRLI using clinically accessible serum indicators, which could aid in early detection and intervention, potentially reducing mortality rates.
Assessing the correlation between park view elements and exercise physiological indicators of walkers, joggers, and runners: a case study of Century Park in Shanghai
Authors: Wang Nan , Wei Weixuan , Qian Yuhui , Gao Hang , Qiu Han 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveTo explore the correlation between park view elements and their combinations on the heart rate (HR) and speed of walkers, joggers, and runners in different groups of people’s profiles and walking types, provide suggestions for the planning and design of walking suitability of walking trails in parks, and guide people with different walking needs to scientifically choose walking trails in parks.MethodsProfile data and exercise data of users who recorded walking activities in Century Park are collected on Strava, and the park view images (PVIs) were taken and segmented semantically. Data are grouped according to gender, age, weight and exercise type, and the quantitative relationship between HR, speed and 17 park view elements is studied by Spearman correlation analysis.Results(1) The influence of the same park view elements on the exercise physiological indicators of different genders is small; (2) Park view elements combination based on sky, grass-plant and tree can better stabilize the walking HR of the older adult; (3) Semi-enclosed trail dominated by tree can improve the walking HR and speed of people with larger body weight; (4) Natural routes dominated by sidewalk-path and supplemented by tree and sky elements are more suitable for walking, while the trails with larger sky area, no trees and wider trails are more suitable for running.
Explainable machine learning for predicting recurrence-free survival in endometrial carcinosarcoma patients
Authors: Bove Samantha , Arezzo Francesca , Cormio Gennaro , Silvestris Erica , Cafforio Alessia , Comes Maria Colomba , Fanizzi Annarita , Accogli Giuseppe , Cazzato Gerardo , De Nunzio Giorgio , Maiorano Brigida , Naglieri Emanuele , Lupo Andrea , Vitale Elsa , Loizzi Vera , Massafra Raffaella 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesEndometrial carcinosarcoma is a rare, aggressive high-grade endometrial cancer, accounting for about 5% of all uterine cancers and 15% of deaths from uterine cancers. The treatment can be complex, and the prognosis is poor. Its increasing incidence underscores the urgent requirement for personalized approaches in managing such challenging diseases.MethodIn this work, we designed an explainable machine learning approach to predict recurrence-free survival in patients affected by endometrial carcinosarcoma. For this purpose, we exploited the predictive power of clinical and histopathological data, as well as chemotherapy and surgical information collected for a cohort of 80 patients monitored over time. Among these patients, 32.5% have experienced the appearance of a recurrence.ResultsThe designed model was able to well describe the observed sequence of events, providing a reliable ranking of the survival times based on the individual risk scores, and achieving a C-index equals to 70.00% (95% CI, 59.38–84.74).ConclusionAccordingly, machine learning methods could support clinicians in discriminating between endometrial carcinosarcoma patients at low-risk or high-risk of recurrence, in a non-invasive and inexpensive way. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study proposing a preliminary approach addressing this task.
The effectiveness of waxing or epilation compared to conventional methods of hair removal in reducing the incidence of surgical site infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cutteridge Joseph , Garrido Pierre , Staniland Tim , Lim Arthur , Totty Joshua , Lathan Ross , Smith George , Chetter Ian 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundSurgical site infections (SSIs) pose a significant challenge to healthcare systems by elevating patient morbidity and mortality and driving up financial costs. Preoperative skin preparation is crucial for preventing SSIs; however, certain traditional methods of hair removal have been found to increase the risk of SSI development. Mechanical epilation and waxing constitute two relatively explored methods of hair removal, which may hold potential to accelerate wound healing due to the activation of stem cells within hair follicles. This review assesses the efficacy of preoperative hair removal via waxing and mechanical epilation in reducing SSI incidence.MethodsThis systematic review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (ref: CRD42023423798) and a protocol previously published in a peer-reviewed journal. All findings are reported according to PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria encompassed adult patients undergoing any surgical procedure, comparing waxing or epilation against other hair removal methods or no hair removal, with SSI incidence as the primary outcome. There was no restriction on study size or quality to ensure a comprehensive literature evaluation.ResultsThe review found no studies meeting the selection criteria out of 576 records screened.Discussion/conclusionThis review has identified no literature regarding the use of waxing and mechanical epilation as methods of preoperative hair removal. The lack of experimental evidence combined with the potential physiological advantages of these techniques indicate that this could be a valuable area of future research. These techniques may represent novel approaches to SSI prevention, particularly beneficial in high-risk surgical disciplines like vascular surgery.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=423798, PROSPERO (CRD42023423798).
An in vivo evaluation of the safety and efficacy of using decellularized bovine parietal peritoneum membranes as dural substitutes
Authors: Doskaliyev Aidos , Ogay Vyacheslav , Mussabekov Islambek , Satov Muratbek , Zhetpisbayev Berik , Mustafin Khalit , Bobrova Xeniya , Auezova Raushan , Akshulakov Serik 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThe reconstruction of dura matter is a challenging problem for neurosurgeons. A number of materials for dural reconstruction have recently been developed, but some of them have poor biocompatibility, poor mechanical properties, and adverse effects. Bovine parietal peritoneum is a promising natural material for regenerative medicine and reconstructive surgery. In this study, we conducted an in vivo evaluation of the safety and efficacy of using decellularized bovine peritoneum membranes (BPMs) as natural dural substitutes in a rabbit model.MethodsThe dural defects in mature New Zealand rabbits were studied. A BPM was sutured on the dural defect area of each animal. Autologous periosteum and collagen membranes (Lyoplant®) were used to facilitate a comparison with the BPMs. ELISA, histomorphological analysis, and hematological analysis were carried out to examine the safety and efficacy of using BPMs as dural substitutes.ResultsOur results showed that the BPMs demonstrated a deterioration rate that is suitable for gathering newly formed meningothelial tissue. The thickness and density of BPM fibers prevents resorption in the first few days after use as a plastic material, and the regeneration of the dura mater does not occur at an accelerated pace, meaning that the gradual formation of fibrous tissue prevents adhesion to the brain surface. It was observed that the BPM can integrate with the adjacent tissue to repair dural defects. Moreover, the transplantation of BPMs did not cause significant adverse effects or immunological responses, indicating the safety and good biocompatibility of the BPM.ConclusionThus, our in vivo study in a rabbit model showed that decellularized BPMs may represent a biocompatible natural material that can be used in cases requiring dura matter repair without significant adverse effects.
Surgical effect of the medial wall resection of the cavernous sinus for functional pituitary adenomas
Authors: Liang Xiao , Li Zhuoqun , Xing Mengyang , Gao Wenbo , Liu Pengfei 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe surgical treatment of pituitary adenomas (PAs) is aimed at achieving maximal tumor resection, relieving the compression, and correcting the disorders of pituitary hormones. Parasellar dural invasion is a primary factor in the failure of the surgery. By comparing the two operations of tumor excision combined with resection of the medial wall of the cavernous sinus (MW) and simple tumor excision, we further confirmed the clinical effectiveness and safety of the resection technique of the MW.Methods41 patients with functional pituitary adenoma (FPA) were divided into two groups according to the operation. The experimental group consisted of 20 patients who underwent tumor excision combined with resection of the MW via endonasal transsphenoidal approach and 21 patients who underwent simple pituitary tumor excision as the control group. Both groups were followed up for 12 months and matched for age, sex, BMI, tumor type, Knosp grade, maximum tumor diameter, hypertension, diabetes, and coronary disease. Perioperative-related indicators, biochemical remission rates, tumor recurrence rates, and complications were assessed.ResultsA total of 21 medial walls were removed in 20 patients, 15 (71%) specimens had pathologically confirmed tumor invasion. Biochemical remission rates and average operative duration in the experimental group were more than in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). The remaining perioperative indicators, complications, and tumor recurrence rates had no statistically significant difference (P &gt; 0.05).ConclusionThe technique of the MW removal via endonasal transsphenoidal approach for FPAs is safe and effective, with a high biochemical remission. The average operative duration for MW removal may be longer than that for simple tumor excision.
Development of a web-based tool to assess daily rating of perceived exertion in agility dogs
Authors: Sellon Debra C. , Shoben Abigail , Pechette Markley Arielle , McFarlane Dianne , Marcellin-Little Denis J. 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveTo develop a web-based tool for daily use by agility handlers to log rating of perceived exertion (RPE) for dogs as an aid in quantifying daily exercise and training load and to improve training and conditioning strategies.ProceduresFocus group meetings with small groups of handlers were conducted via internet—based video conferencing using a semi-structured interview format. Meeting notes were coded for reflexive thematic analysis. The RPE logging tool was revised based on handler feedback. Each handler was asked to log their dog’s daily RPE data for 1 week. Data were analyzed to assess compliance and timeliness of entries. Participants completed a post-logging questionnaire to provide feedback about their experiences.ResultsEighteen agility dog handlers participated in all phases of the project. Handler and dog demographics were similar to previously reported demographics of agility participants in the United States. Reflexive thematic analysis of their comments related to the initial draft RPE logging tool yielded 3 initial themes, all of which supported a fourth and major theme: the need for specific and detailed training resources before agility handlers utilized the RPE tool. Of 18 handlers, 14 (78%) submitted logging records for the full week. Median time for data entry was 87 s (IQR = 56–117 s), and 92% of logging records were entered within 1 day of the events which were being recorded. In the follow-up questionnaire the handlers did not identify any major concerns. Based on all available data from the handlers, a final version of the RPE logging tool was produced.Conclusion and clinical relevanceAgility dog handlers are very interested in developing and validating tools to quantify training load for their dogs. The final RPE logging tool was quick and easy to use. Further validation of this logging tool is required with a larger number of handlers and comparison to physiologic data from exercising dogs.