bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Acute hypoxia stress mediates HIF-1α-Yki-Cactus axis to facilitate the infection of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: He Honghui , Huang Shaoqing , Geng Ningze , Weng Shaoping , He Jianguo , Li Chaozheng 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionHypoxia stress renders aquatic animals more susceptible to bacterial disease, yet the underlying mechanism remains elusive.MethodsWe conducted an acute hypoxia stress experiment to investigate the impact of stress on the immune response of Litopenaeus vannamei via transcriptome analysis, RT-qPCR and Western blot.ResultsOur results showed that acute hypoxia stress disrupted the tissue architecture, and significantly changed the gene expression profiles in the hepatopancreas of shrimp. More importantly, acute hypoxia stress significantly changed the expression levels of immune-related genes. Ladderlectin, GBP 1, Caspase-1, CLEC4F, MR1 and GBP 2 were significantly down-regulated, but HIF-1α, Cactus, TIPE, Akirin-2, Ivns1abp and TLR3 were significantly up-regulated. We further demonstrated that acute hypoxia activated Yki via HIF-1α to enhance expression level of Cactus, and then Cactus inhibited the phosphorylation of Dorsal and its nuclear translocation, thereby suppressing antibacterial immunity. Subsequently, the challenge experiment following stress revealed that exposure to acute hypoxia stress amplified the infectivity and lethality of Vibrio parahaemolyticus to shrimp. The mechanism of HIF-1α-Yki-Cautus axis provided an explanation for this phenomenon.DiscussionThis study offered new insights into interactions among environmental hypoxia stress, host immunity and pathogens, thereby providing practical guidelines for optimizing shrimp culture practices.
Different fungal signatures in ALD and MAFLD
Authors: Zhang Daya , Wang Qi , Li Da , Chen Chen , Lv Yanting , Huang Shimei , Zeng Fan , Huang Xianfeng , Mao Fengjiao , Bai Feihu 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThis study investigates the differential impact of fecal fungal microbiota on the pathogenesis of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). We aim to delineate distinct microbial patterns across various stages of each disease.MethodsWe conducted fungal internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequencing analysis on fecal samples from 48 ALD patients, 55 MAFLD patients, and 64 healthy controls (HCs).ResultsDistinct fungal microbiota profiles were significantly identified between the ALD and MAFLD patients. In the ALD group, genera such as Trichosporon, Davidiella and Asterotremella along with species like Trichosporon unclassified and Davidiella unclassified were elevated compared to those in the MAFLD group. Conversely, Fungi unclassified, Rhizopus, Periconia, and Candida albicans were more prevalent in MAFLD patients. A specific fungal signature comprising Asterotremella_pseudolonga, Malassezia_restricta and Malassezia, was notably effective in differentiating ALD from MAFLD, achieving an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.94. Periconia and Periconia byssoides were more abundant in non-obese MAFLD patients compared to obese MAFLD and HCs. Rhizopus microsporus var. chinensis and var. rhizopodiformis, along with Pleosporales unclassified, were predominantly found in MAFLD patients with moderate to severe hepatic steatosis (HS). The genera Pleosporales_unclassified and the species Candida_albicans were markedly elevated in ALC patients when contrasted with AFL or HCs.ConclusionThis investigation introduces a novel fungal signature that successfully differentiates between ALD and MAFLD, underscoring Pleosporales unclassified, as biomarkers for disease progression in ALD and MAFLD. The findings also suggest a significant role for Periconia in the progression of non-obese MAFLD.
The role of astrocytes in Alzheimer’s disease: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: An Xiaoqiong , He Jun , Bi Bin , Wu Gang , Xu Jianwei , Yu Wenfeng , Ren Zhenkui 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline and memory loss. Recent research underscores the crucial role of astrocytes in AD. This study reviews research trends and contributions on astrocytes in AD from 2000 to 2024, shedding light on the evolving research landscape.MethodsWe conducted a bibliometric analysis using data from the Web of Science Core Collection, covering publications from January 1, 2000, to July 6, 2024, on “Alzheimer’s disease” and “astrocytes.” We identified 5,252 relevant English articles and reviews. For data visualization and analysis, we used VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the R package “bibliometrix,” examining collaboration networks, co-citation networks, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic evolution.ResultsBetween 2000 and 2024, 5,252 publications were identified, including 4,125 original research articles and 1,127 review articles. Publications increased significantly after 2016. The United States had the most contributions (1,468), followed by China (836). Major institutions were the University of California system (517) and Harvard University (402). The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease published the most articles (215). Verkhratsky A was the top author with 51 papers and 1,585 co-citations.ConclusionOur extensive bibliometric analysis indicates a significant increase in research on astrocytes in AD over the past 20 years. This study emphasizes the growing acknowledgment of astrocytes’ crucial role in AD pathogenesis and points to future research on their mechanisms and therapeutic potential.
RESTORE ME: a RCT of oxaloacetate for improving fatigue in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Cash Alan , Vernon Suzanne D. , Rond Candace , Bateman Lucinda , Abbaszadeh Saeed , Bell Jennifer , Yellman Brayden , Kaufman David L. 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundThe energy metabolite oxaloacetate is significantly lower in the blood plasma of ME/CFS subjects. A previous open-label trial with oxaloacetate supplementation demonstrated a significant reduction in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)-related fatigue.MethodsIn this follow-up trial, 82 ME/CFS subjects were enrolled in a 3-month randomized, double-blinded, controlled study, receiving either 2,000 mg of oxaloacetate or control per day. The primary endpoints were safety and reduction in fatigue from baseline. Secondary and exploratory endpoints included functional capacity and general health status.ResultsAnhydrous enol-oxaloacetate (oxaloacetate) was well tolerated at the tested doses. Oxaloacetate significantly reduced fatigue by more than 25% from baseline, while the control group showed a non-significant reduction of approximately 10%. Intergroup analysis showed a significant decrease in fatigue levels in the oxaloacetate group (p = 0.0039) with no notable change in the control group. A greater proportion of subjects in the oxaloacetate group achieved a reduction in fatigue greater than 25% compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). Additionally, 40.5% of the oxaloacetate group were classified as “enhanced responders,” with an average fatigue reduction of 63%. Both physical and mental fatigue improved with oxaloacetate supplementation.ConclusionOxaloacetate is well tolerated and effectively helps reduce fatigue in ME/CFS patients.Clinical trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05273372.
25-year neuroimaging research on spoken language processing: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Zheng Yuxuan , Zhang Boning 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionSpoken language processing is of huge interest to cognitive and neural scientists, as it is the dominant channel for everyday verbal communication. The aim of this study is to depict the dynamics of publications in the field of neuroimaging research on spoken language processing between 2000 and 2024.MethodsA bibliometric analysis was conducted to probe this particular subject matter based on data retrieved from Web of Science. A total of 8,085 articles were found, which were analyzed together with their authors, journals of publication, citations and countries of origin.ResultsResults showed a steady increase of publication volume and a relatively high academic visibility of this research field indexed by total citations in the first 25 years of the 21st century. Maps of frequent keywords, institutional collaboration network show that cooperations mainly happen between institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany. Future trends based on burst detection predict that classification, Alzheimer’s disease and oscillations are potential hot topics.DiscussionPossible reasons for the result include the aging of the population in developed countries, and the rapid growth of artificial intelligence in the past decade. Finally, specific research avenues were proposed which might benefit future studies.
Effect of synbiotic supplementation on obesity and gut microbiota in obese adults: a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Niu Xiaokang , Zhang Qi , Liu Julong , Zhao Yuyang , Shang Nan , Li Shusen , Liu Yinghua , Xiong Wei , Sun Erna , Zhang Yong , Zhao Hongfeng , Li Yixuan , Wang Pengjie , Fang Bing , Zhao Liang , Chen Juan , Wang Fuqing , Pang Guofang , Wang Chenyuan , He Jingjing , Wang Ran 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundSynbiotics, combining specific probiotics and selected prebiotics, may benefit health issues like obesity, but evidence remains inconsistent.ObjectiveThis study aimed to verify the effect of a pre-screened synbiotics combination [containing Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis MN-Gup (MN-Gup), galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) and xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS)] on obesity in the population.MethodsIn a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 80 individuals with obesity consumed daily synbiotics (containing MN-Gup 1 × 1011 CFU/day, GOS 0.7 g/day, and XOS 0.7 g/day) or placebo for 12 weeks. Body composition, blood lipids, serum hormone, bile acids, and gut microbiota were measured pre-and post-intervention.ResultsSynbiotics supplementation significantly decreased body fat percentage, waist, and serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), increased peptide YY, cholecystokinin, oxyntomodulin, GSH (glutathione peroxidase) in individuals with obesity. Additionally, synbiotic supplementation led to an enrichment of beneficial bacteria and bile acids chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). Bifidobacterium and Romboutsia were significantly positively correlated with CDCA. A more favorable effect was observed in individuals with obesity and abnormal LDL-C compared to those without dyslipidemia.ConclusionTwelve-week synbiotics intervention reduced body fat percentage, waist, and serum LDL-C, especially in individuals with obesity and abnormal LDL-C. The possible mechanisms may be related to changes in gut microbiota, bile acids and gut hormones.Clinical trial registrationChictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2200064156.
Negative pressure breathing: the response of human respiration and circulation to different levels of rarefaction during inspiration
Authors: Semenov Yury S. , Popova Julia A. , Luzhnov Petr V. , Demin Artem V. , Moreva Tatiana I. , Kriushev Evgeny S. , Nichiporuk Igor A. , Dyachenko Alexander I. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionNegative pressure breathing is breathing with decreased pressure in the respiratory tract without lowering pressure acting on the torso. We lowered pressure only during inspiration (NPBin). NPBin is used to increase venous return to the heart and is considered as a countermeasure against redistribution of body fluids toward the head during spaceflight. Aims of our study were: to obtain quantitative information on NPBin-induced changes in parameters of circulation and respiration in healthy human at various rarefactions; to identify main processes involved in cardiorespiratory response to NPBin.MethodsCardiorespiratory response to 25 min of NPBin were studied, rarefaction ranged from −10 to −25 cmH2O. Parameters of systemic, cerebral, and peripheral hemodynamics, as well as respiratory and gas exchange parameters, were measured with non-invasive methods (Finometer, impedance cardiography, rheoencephalography, transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, laser Doppler flowmetry, capillaroscopy). Concentrations of endothelin-1, atrial and brain natriuretic peptides precursors in venous blood, O2 and CO2 tensions in arterialized capillary blood were measured.ResultsTidal volume increased, respiratory rate decreased under NPBin with no significant changes in minute ventilation. Group averaged, respiratory rate and tidal volume changed approximately twice relative to their values observed under normal breathing. Despite the decrease in respiratory rate (up to 2-3 breaths/min), the results indicate CO2 wash-out. Changes in respiratory and gas exchange parameters were virtually independent of rarefaction level. Synchronous with breathing oscillations of circulatory parameters increased in amplitude under NPBin, while values of the parameters averaged over NPBin period changed little. Amplitude of oscillations in parameters associated with arteries virtually did not change with increasing rarefaction. Inspiration under NPBin reduced left ventricle stroke volume and arterial blood pressure, increased heart rate. Head blood filling decreased during inspiration under NPBin, the decrease increased almost linearly with increasing rarefaction. Parameters returned to their initial values after the end of inspiration. Peak-to-peak amplitude of oscillations under NPBin ranged: stroke volume 17–25 mL, mean arterial pressure 7–9 mmHg, heart rate 14–18 bpm. Peripheral hemodynamics responded to NPBin little.ConclusionChanges in stroke volume and central venous pressure during inspiration under NPBin appear to be the major phenomena mediating the effects of NPBin on the cardiorespiratory system.
Association of grip strength, sleep duration, and comorbidities with depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older patients with chronic lung diseases: a cross-sectional network analysis based on CHARLS data
Authors: Li Lu , Meng Jiaqi , Wu Yinxiang , Bu Xiaoyuan , Gao Liping , Xiao Zhiwei , Chen Jiquan 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundDepressive symptoms are prevalent among patients with chronic lung diseases (CLDs) and adversely impact their quality of life. This study aims to explore the association of grip strength (GS), sleep duration, and comorbidities with depressive symptoms in patients with CLDs, with an in-depth analysis of the underlying mechanisms.MethodsBased on data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this study included participants aged 45 and above with diagnosed CLDs. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10). Binary logistic regression, subgroup analysis, and network analysis were conducted to examine the intricate relationships between GS, sleep duration, comorbidities, and specific depressive symptoms.ResultsAmong the 1,427 participants, 39.8% exhibited depressive symptoms. Adjusted analyses revealed that GS (OR = 0.964, p &lt; 0.001) and sleep duration (OR = 0.808, p &lt; 0.001) were negatively associated with depressive symptoms, whereas the number of comorbid chronic diseases (OR = 1.189, p &lt; 0.001) showed a significant positive correlation with depressive symptoms. Subgroup analyses demonstrated variations in these relationships across different demographic characteristics and lifestyle factors. Network analysis pinpointed “depressed” as the core symptom, with “annoyed,” “exhausted,” and “lonely” as secondary core symptoms. The robust associations between specific factors and depressive symptoms (GS with “annoyed,” sleep and comorbid chronic diseases with “depressed”) suggested potential targets for interventions.ConclusionThis study underscores the complex interplay of GS, sleep duration, and comorbidities with depressive symptoms in patients with CLDs. These findings offer new perspectives for improving the mental health of this vulnerable population.
A blended group intervention to promote social connectedness and wellbeing among international university students: an exploratory study
Authors: Cipolletta Sabrina , Tedoldi Ilaria , Tomaino Silvia Caterina Maria 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionLoneliness is a prevalent issue among international university students, often exacerbated by cultural and linguistic barriers. This pilot study aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability and impact of a blended intervention to promote international students’ social connectedness and well-being.MethodsA sample of 49 international students from the University of Padua (Italy) was recruited. The study followed the methodology of a non-randomized controlled trial comparing a blended intervention (comprising group activities and online self-help materials) with two other active conditions (self-help only and peer-to-peer interventions) and a control condition at two times (baseline and at 8 weeks). Participants completed a survey to assess their satisfaction with the interventions, changes in their interactions and wellbeing. They also filled in some questionnaires to measure anxiety, depression, perceived social support, loneliness and satisfaction with life. A mixed-method analysis was conducted.ResultsResults showed that interventions involving in-person activities had significant advantages over self-help intervention in terms of interaction improvement and a higher number of relationships. Participants perceived self-help materials as more relevant, satisfactory, and functional within the blended group compared to the self-help group. Contrary to the control group, the blended and peer-to-peer groups reported lower scores on the standardized measures of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, and higher scores on satisfaction with life, collected pre- and post-intervention. The thematic analysis of the answers to the open-ended questions showed that in-person group activities provided the opportunity to compare themselves with peers and have a direct experience of new social connections.DiscussionThe findings highlight the importance of translating insights from self-help materials into active and direct social experiences, to reduce loneliness through the emergence of new perspectives and shared meaning making.
Physicians’ ethical concerns about artificial intelligence in medicine: a qualitative study: “The final decision should rest with a human”
Authors: Kahraman Fatma , Aktas Aysenur , Bayrakceken Serra , Çakar Tuna , Tarcan Hande Serim , Bayram Bugrahan , Durak Berk , Ulman Yesim Isil 
Published: November 2024

Background/aimArtificial Intelligence (AI) is the capability of computational systems to perform tasks that require human-like cognitive functions, such as reasoning, learning, and decision-making. Unlike human intelligence, AI does not involve sentience or consciousness but focuses on data processing, pattern recognition, and prediction through algorithms and learned experiences. In healthcare including neuroscience, AI is valuable for improving prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, and surveillance.MethodsThis qualitative study aimed to investigate the acceptability of AI in Medicine (AIIM) and to elucidate any technical and scientific, as well as social and ethical issues involved. Twenty-five doctors from various specialties were carefully interviewed regarding their views, experience, knowledge, and attitude toward AI in healthcare.ResultsContent analysis confirmed the key ethical principles involved: confidentiality, beneficence, and non-maleficence. Honesty was the least invoked principle. A thematic analysis established four salient topic areas, i.e., advantages, risks, restrictions, and precautions. Alongside the advantages, there were many limitations and risks. The study revealed a perceived need for precautions to be embedded in healthcare policies to counter the risks discussed. These precautions need to be multi-dimensional.ConclusionThe authors conclude that AI should be rationally guided, function transparently, and produce impartial results. It should assist human healthcare professionals collaboratively. This kind of AI will permit fairer, more innovative healthcare which benefits patients and society whilst preserving human dignity. It can foster accuracy and precision in medical practice and reduce the workload by assisting physicians during clinical tasks. AIIM that functions transparently and respects the public interest can be an inspiring scientific innovation for humanity.
Exploring the structural validity and reliability of the swimming competence assessment scale in college students
Authors: Zhao Miao , Chen Cheng , Ning Peng , Zhang Bo Wei , Shen Yupeng 
Published: November 2024

PurposeAs a globally popular physical activity, swimming also presents challenges due to its inherent aquatic risks. Therefore, the cultivation of swimming competence emerges as a crucial strategy in preventing drowning incidents. This study aimed to develop and validate the Swimming Competence Assessment Scale in College Students (SCAS) to address the gap in structured swimming proficiency evaluation, essential for drowning prevention and water safety education.MethodsThe research involved 160 full-time second-year college students, including 92 males (age:20.48±0.51) and 68 females (age:20.65±0.70), who underwent two swimming ability assessments. The evaluation covered fundamental swimming skills, including entry, submersion, rotation, prone and supine swimming, floating, and exiting the water.ResultsExploratory Factor Analysis revealed goodness-of-fit for a two-factor model swimming coherent motion and swimming stable posture, which supported the construct validity. The inter-factor construct reliability (CR = 0.866, CR = 0.835) and the square root of Average Variance Extracted (AVE1 = 0.754, AVE1 = 0.848) exceeded the standards for supporting convergent and discriminant validity. The inter-rater reliability (IRR = 0.542) and Cronbach’s alpha (α = 0.840, α = 0.827) coefficient results have demonstrated the internal reliability of the SACS. Positive correlation between SCAS scores at pre-test and post-test provided evidence for SCAS’s test–retest reliability (TRR = 0.825, TRR = 0.758).ConclusionSCAS is a valid and reliable assessment scale. It assesses college students’ swimming competence through two aspects: Swimming Coherent Motion and Swimming Stable Posture.