bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The causal relationship between immune cell-mediated gut microbiota and ulcerative colitis: a bidirectional two-sample, mediation Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Xiao Jinyin , Guo Xiajun , Lin Youwei , Wang Zhenquan 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundNumerous studies have highlighted the close association between gut microbiota and the development of ulcerative colitis (UC), yet research on whether immune cells mediate this process remains scarce. This study utilizes various Mendelian randomization (MR) methods to investigate the causal relationship between gut microbiota and UC, further exploring the mediating role of immune cells in this process.MethodsGenome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics for 473 gut microbiota, 731 immune cell phenotypes, and UC were obtained from the GWAS catalog database. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were used as instrumental variables (IV) to validate the causal relationship between gut microbiota and UC through two-sample MR and Bayesian weighted MR (BWMR), and reverse MR was employed to explore the presence of reverse causal effects. Two-step MR was applied to identify immune cell mediators and evaluate their mediation effects.ResultsThe study revealed a causal relationship between 20 gut microbiota and UC, with 14 microbiota acting as protective factors for UC and 6 as risk factors. Mediation MR identified 26 immune cell mediators, among which the association between CD11b on Mo MDSC and Bifidobacterium bifidum (B. bifidum) was most significant (p = 0.0017, OR = 1.4540, 95% CI: 1.1504–1.8378). Mediation MR analysis indicated that the mediation effect of CD11b on Mo MDSC between B. bifidum and UC was −0.0385, with a mediation effect ratio of 16.67%.ConclusionThere is a clear causal relationship between certain gut microbiota and UC, and CD11b on Mo MDSC is a significant mediator between B. bifidum and UC, providing new insights for the clinical treatment of UC.
Association of age to nutritional status and muscle mass in children with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Luyang , Yang Yanlan , Luo Yuan , Wang Lei , Patil Sandip 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundTransfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT) is a hereditary blood disorder that often leads to complications affecting growth, nutritional status, and muscle mass in children. This study aims to investigate the associations between age, nutritional status, and muscle mass in children with TDT, providing insights into the progressive impact of age on these parameters.MethodsOne hundred twenty-two children with TDT from March 2023 to March 2024 were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Their nutritional status was assessed using the 2006–2007 World Health Organization (WHO) Growth Charts, and their muscle mass was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Data related to age, gender, weight, height, fat-free mass (FFM), skeletal muscle mass (SMM), and soft lean mass (SLM) of children were collected for comparative analysis from the hospital record room. Furthermore, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients and regression analyses were utilized to investigate the associations between age and both nutritional status and muscle mass.ResultsThe results of this study revealed negative correlations between age and wasting (r = −0.26, p &lt; 0.001), stunting (r = −0.28, p &lt; 0.001), FFM (r = −0.3, p &lt; 0.001), SMM (r = −0.23, p &lt; 0.01), and SLM (r = −0.36, p &lt; 0.001). The regression analysis indicated that age was an independent predictor of wasting, stunting, and reduced muscle mass in these children (all p &lt; 0.001).ConclusionOur study observed a trend of worsening stunting, wasting, and muscle loss in children with TDT as they age. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring both nutritional and muscular health in TDT patients. Early detection and comprehensive nutritional management may improve outcomes in this population.
Distributed parameter model of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI in the identification of IDH mutation, 1p19q codeletion, and tumor cell proliferation in glioma patients
Authors: Zhao Kai , Huang Huiyu , Gao Eryuan , Qi Jinbo , Chen Ting , Zhao Gaoyang , Zhao Guohua , Zhang Yu , Wang Peipei , Bai Jie , Zhang Yong , Hou Zujun , Cheng Jingliang , Ma Xiaoyue 
Published: October 2024

ObjectivesTo investigate the clinical value of hemodynamic parameters derived from dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) in predicting glioma genotypes including isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation, 1p/19q codeletion status and the tumor proliferation index (Ki-67) noninvasively. And to compare the diagnostic performance of parameters of distributed parameter (DP)model and extended Tofts (Ex-Tofts) model.Materials and methodsDynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) data of patients with glioma were prospectively enrolled from April 2021 to May 2023. The imaging data were analyzed using DP and Ex-Tofts model for evaluating the perfusion and permeability characteristics of glioma. Comparisons were performed according to IDH genotype in all glioma patients and 1p/19q codeletion in IDH mutation glioma patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated for DCE-MRI parameters. The Spearman rank correlation coefficients were calculated between DCE MRI parameters and Ki-67 index.ResultsIn IDH-mutation gliomas, a higher blood flow (F) was found in 1p/19q codeletion gliomas than in 1p/19q intact gliomas. No parameter derived from Ex-Tofts model showed significant differences in predicting 1p/19q status. Fractional volume of interstitial space (Ve) derived from both the DP and Ex-Tofts models exhibited optimal performance in predicting IDH genotype (AUC = 0.818, 0.828, respectively). Ve also showed the highest correlations with Ki-67 LI within their respective models in all gliomas (ρ = 0.62, 0.61), indicating comparable moderate positive associations. Ki-67ConclusionDP model showed a clear advantage in predicting 1p/19q status compared to Ex-Tofts model. The DP and Ex-Tofts models performed similarly in predicting IDH mutation and Ki-67 index.
Major contributors to FLASH sparing efficacy emerge from murine skin studies: dose rate, total dose per fraction, anesthesia and oxygenation
Authors: Pogue Brian W. , Thomas William S. , Tavakkoli Armin D. , Jarvis Lesley A. , Hoopes P. Jack 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundNormal tissue sparing from radiation damage upon ultra-high dose rate irradiation, known as the FLASH effect with an equivalent tumor response, has been widely reported in murine skin models, and translation of this type of radiotherapy to humans has already begun, with skin sparing being a primary outcome expected.MethodsThis study reviews the status of the field, focusing on the proposed mechanisms and skin response assays, outlining what has become known in terms of input parameters that might control the magnitude of the FLASH effect.ResultsMurine studies have largely focused on acute damage responses, developing over 3–8 weeks, to single doses of FLASH versus conventional dose rate (CDR), suggesting that at dose rates above tens of Gray per second, with a total dose of more than 20 Gy, the FLASH effect is induced. Fractionated delivery appears to be possible, although fraction sizes &gt;17 Gy appear to be needed for sparing efficacy. The interplay between the dose rate and total dose per fraction remains to be fully elucidated. Oxygen is a modulator of efficacy, with both hypoxia and hyperoxia diminishing the effect of FLASH. Measurement of transient changes in oxygen levels is possible and may be a marker of treatment efficacy.ConclusionTaken together, murine skin data provide important information for translational studies, despite the associated limitations. Studies of later-term sparing effects, as well as studies on pig skin, are needed to take the next step in assessing translational FLASH efficacy. The control of biological factors, such as tissue oxygenation, may be required to understand and control the response.
Predictive factors for lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid cancer patients undergoing neck dissection: insights from a large cohort study
Authors: Wu Shuping , Liu Yu , Ruan Xianhui , Zheng Xiangqian 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the risk factors and metastatic patterns in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) patients undergoing lymph node dissection, offering guidance for clinical practice.MethodsA total of 924 PTC patients who underwent thyroidectomy with central neck dissection (CND) or lateral neck dissection (LND) between January 2021 and November 2022 were included in the analysis. The study investigated the relationships between clinicopathological characteristics, lymph node metastasis, and various risk factor.ResultsAmong the 924 PTC patients, the cervical lymph node metastasis rate was 59.1% (546 patients). Of these patients, 381 had central neck metastasis (CNM, 41.2%), while the remaining 165 patients had lateral neck metastasis (LNM, 17.9%). Factors associated with increased risk of CNM and LNM included larger tumor diameter, presence of multiple tumors, and capsular invasion (p&lt;0.05). Male sex, age &lt;55 years, larger tumor diameter (&gt;0.85 cm), multiple tumors, capsular invasion, and absence of Hashimoto’s disease were identified as independent risk factors for CNM (p&lt;0.05), with an AUC value of 0.722. CNM, maximum diameter &gt;1.15 cm, and multiple tumors were independent risk factors for LNM (p&lt;0.05), with an AUC of 0.699.ConclusionThese findings suggest that tailored neck dissection based on individual risk factors is crucial, particularly in cases of suspected LNM with larger tumors, CNM, multiple tumors, and capsular invasion.
Vascular and nerve biomarkers in thigh skin biopsies differentiate painful from painless diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Sloan Gordon , Donatien Philippe , Privitera Rosario , Shillo Pallai , Caunt Sharon , Selvarajah Dinesh , Anand Praveen , Tesfaye Solomon 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundIdentifying distinct mechanisms and biomarkers for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is required for advancing the treatment of this major global unmet clinical need. We previously provided evidence in calf skin biopsies that disproportion between reduced sensory small nerve fibers and increased blood vessels may distinguish painful from non-painful DPN. We proposed that overexposure of the reduced nerve fibers in DPN to increased hypoxemia-induced vasculature and related algogenic factors, e.g., nerve growth factor (NGF), leads to neuropathic pain. To further investigate this proposed mechanism, we have now studied more proximal thigh skin biopsies, to see if the same disproportion between increased vasculature and decreased nerve fibers generally differentiates painful DPN from painless DPN.MethodsA total of 28 subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and 13 healthy volunteers (HV) underwent detailed clinical and neurophysiological assessments, based on the neuropathy composite score of the lower limbs [NIS(LL)] plus 7 tests. T2DM subjects were subsequently divided into three groups: painful DPN (n = 15), painless DPN (n = 7), and no DPN (n = 6). All subjects underwent skin punch biopsy from the upper lateral thigh 20 cm below the anterior iliac spine.ResultsSkin biopsies showed decreased PGP 9.5-positive intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) density in both painful DPN (p &lt; 0.0001) and painless DPN (p = 0.001). Vascular marker von Willebrand Factor (vWF) density was markedly increased in painful DPN vs. other groups, including painless DPN (p = 0.01). There was a resulting significant decrease in the ratio of intraepidermal nerve fiber density to vasculature and PGP9.5 to vWF, in painful DPN vs. painless DPN (p = 0.05). These results were similar in pattern to those observed in these HV and T2DM groups previously in distal calf biopsies; however, the increase in vWF was much higher and nerve fiber density much lower in the calf than thigh for painful DPN. Thigh skin vWF density was significantly correlated with several metabolic (waist/hip ratio, HbA1c), clinical (e.g., pain score), and neurophysiological measures.ConclusionThis study supports our proposal that increased dermal vasculature, and its disproportionate ratio to reduced nociceptors, may help differentiate painful DPN from painless DPN. This disproportion is greater in the distal calf than the proximal thigh skin; hence, neuropathic pain in DPN is length-dependent and first localized to the distal lower limbs, mainly feet.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on epidemiological and clinical characteristics of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children: a multicenter study from Hubei, China
Authors: Du Hui , Li Jun , Li Xilin , Zhao Junhua , Lu Wei , Zhang Qiong , Liu Wenchun , Luo Xinbing , Lu Qiao , Hu Sanhong , Ma Jilong , He Renzhong , Sha Bangwu , Zhang Lihua , Wu Jinhui , Yang Junjie , Li Hongli , Chen Hebin , Li Ying , Li Yang , Lin Yaxin , Liu Yuehu , Wu Yabin , Liu Yang , Li Jianmu , Lu Xiaoxia 
Published: October 2024

AimsTo investigate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) in Hubei, China.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed inpatients with MPP from 20 hospitals in Hubei, China from January 2021 to December 2022. The co-detected pathogens of Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) were investigated using targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS), and 23S rRNA gene mutations were analyzed to assess the macrolide resistance.ResultsM. pneumoniae infected 20.7% of patients with CAP, with cough (96.59%) and fever (80.28%) being the most prevalent symptoms. The infection rates in children younger than 1, 1–2, 3–6, 7–12, and older than 12 years were 6.17%, 19.98%, 26.97%, 43.93%, and 2.95%, respectively. Among 1,349 patients undergoing tNGS, the overall co-detection rate was 59.45%, with Streptococcus pneumoniae (29.30%), Haemophilus influenzae (23.57%), and Human rhinovirus (17.21%) being the most commonly co-detected pathogens. In 635 patients undergoing the 23S rRNA gene mutation test, 86.30% exhibited positive mutations (A2063G, 98.00%; A2064G, 1.50%; A2067G, 0.50%). Despite a significant age difference (P = 0.037) between macrolide-resistant M. pneumoniae and macrolide-sensitive M. pneumoniae groups, there were no significant differences in symptoms, lab data, or disease severity.ConclusionsIn Hubei Province, the prevalence of exhibited consistent changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. MPP was prevalent year-round, particularly in summer and autumn, with school-age children being more susceptible. Co-detections of viruses and bacteria were frequent in MPP cases, and macrolide resistance exceeded 85%. Ongoing surveillance of M. pneumoniae in children is crucial for understanding the healthcare impact of MPP.
Machine learning model for predicting the cold–heat pattern in Kampo medicine: a multicenter prospective observational study
Authors: Maeda-Minami Ayako , Yoshino Tetsuhiro , Katayama Kotoe , Horiba Yuko , Hikiami Hiroaki , Shimada Yutaka , Namiki Takao , Tahara Eiichi , Minamizawa Kiyoshi , Muramatsu Shin-Ichi , Yamaguchi Rui , Imoto Seiya , Miyano Satoru , Mima Hideki , Uneda Kazushi , Nogami Tatsuya , Fukunaga Koichi , Watanabe Kenji 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to predict the four cold–heat patterns in patients who have the subjective symptoms of the cold–heat pattern described in the International Classification of Diseases Traditional Medicine Conditions – Module 1 by applying a machine learning algorithm.MethodsSubjects were first-visit Kampo outpatients at six institutions who agreed to participate in this multicenter prospective observational study. The cold pattern model and the heat pattern model were created separately with 148 symptoms, body mass index, blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), age, and sex. Along with a single cold or heat pattern, the tangled heat/cold pattern is defined as being predicted by both cold and heat patterns, while the moderate (heat/cold) pattern is defined as being predicted by neither the cold pattern nor the heat pattern.ResultsWe included 622 participants (mean age ±standard deviation, 54.4 ± 16.9; with female 501). The accuracy, macro-recall, precision, and F1-score of a combination of the two prediction models were 96.7%, 93.2%, 85.6%, and 88.5% respectively. The important items were compatible with the definitions of the cold–heat pattern.ConclusionWe developed a prediction model on cold–heat patterns with data from patients whose subjective cold/heat-related symptoms matched the cold–heat pattern diagnosis by the physician.
Relationship between erectile dysfunction and alexithymia in male patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ledermann Katharina , Zuccarella-Hackl Claudia , Altwegg Rahel , Dörner Marc , Attanasio Veronica , Guth Lisa , Zirngast Sina , Pazhenkottil Aju P. , Menzi Anna , von Känel Roland , Princip Mary 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundImplantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) implantation is a life-saving intervention for individuals at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. However, the psychosocial impact of ICD implantation extends beyond its cardiovascular benefits, potentially influencing emotional well-being and sexual health. This can lead to erectile dysfunction, which, is often associated with alexithymia. Both erectile dysfunction and alexithymia can significantly affect the psychological well-being of both patients and their partners.AimsThis study examines the association of erectile dysfunction with alexithymia in patients after ICD implantation. Additionally, we investigate potential moderators of this association.MethodPatients (N=165) completed self-rating questionnaires: Toronto Alexithymia scale (TAS-20), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), Adjustment disorder – new module (ADNM-20). Descriptive statistics, correlations, multivariate linear regressions, and moderation analysis were conducted.ResultsThe determinants of erectile dysfunction in ICD patients were explored in a regression model explaining 22% of the total variance. The ADNM-20 subscale preoccupation was found to significantly moderate the relationship between the alexithymia subscale externally oriented thinking and erectile dysfunction (R2 = 0.02, p=0.03).ConclusionWe did not find evidence for a relationship between externally oriented thinking and erectile dysfunction at low to average levels of preoccupation. However, evidence for such a relationship was found at high levels of preoccupation, where more externally oriented thinking was related to more erectile dysfunction. The intersection of alexithymia and erectile dysfunction represents a promising avenue for future research, offering opportunities to unravel the intricate connections between emotional processing and sexual health. Enhancing insights into this relationship could lead to innovative interventions that address the needs of individuals struggling with both conditions, fostering improved emotional expression, intimate relationships, and sexual satisfaction.
Analysis of preoperative and postoperative depression and anxiety in patients with lumbar disc herniation with radiculopathy treated with percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy
Authors: Wei Yatao , Huang Hailun , Sun Kui , Gao Heng , Cao Zhenwen , Zhang Bin , Wu Junzhe , Liu Yongai 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the mental health of patients with lumbar disc herniation with radiculopathy (LDHR) and to evaluate the effects of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) on their mental well-being.MethodThis study included 114 LDHR patients who received PTED in the Spinal Orthopedics Department of Zhongshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between May 2022 and May 2023. The study population was stratified into two groups according to the presence of preoperative anxiety and depression: Group A comprised patients with such symptoms, and Group B included the remainder. Patients were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS), and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at preoperative and final follow-up visits. Evaluations were performed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Visual Analog Scale, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at the time of preoperation and during the last follow-up.ResultsAmong the 114 LDHR patients who obtained complete follow-up, fifty-four had anxiety/depression symptoms before surgery, which accounted for a incidence of 47%. Both Group A and Group B patients showed significant improvement in all evaluation indicators after PTED, but the overall prognosis of Group A was worse than that of Group B.ConclusionPTED can effectively improve patients’ pain, functional activities and mental health, which has a positive impact on patients’ quality of life, and there is a significant correlation between patients’ preoperative mental health and prognosis.
Long-term effects of air pollution on daily outpatient visits for allergic conjunctivitis from 2013 to 2020: a time-series study in Urumqi, China
Authors: Liu Dongwei , Gui Siyu , Wang Xinchen , Wang Qianqian , Qiao Jianchao , Tao Fangbiao , Tao Liming , Jiang Zhengxuan , Yi Xianglong 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionThis study aimed to elucidate the effects of outdoor air pollution and allergic conjunctivitis and population-based lagged effects of air pollution.MethodsWe included data on six major air pollutants, PM10, PM2.5, carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3), and 3325 allergic conjunctivitis outpatient visits in Urumqi, northwest China, from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2020. We developed quasi-Poisson generalized linear regression models with distributed lagged nonlinear models (DLNM), and single and multi-pollutant models were constructed to investigate single-day and cumulative lagged effects in detail.ResultsOur results confirmed that elevated PM10 and NO2 levels are significantly associated with increased allergic conjunctivitis outpatient visits with lags of 2 and 3 days respectively, and subgroup analyses further suggest that the effects of PM10 and NO2 on allergic conjunctivitis are more pronounced during the warm season. Women are more sensitive to PM10 exposure and the effect of air pollution on allergic conjunctivitis is influenced by age (e.g., infancy and older people).DiscussionOur work provides the first time-series study in Urumqi, the world's furthest inland city from the ocean. Further implementation of specific outdoor air pollution controls such as the burning of fossil fuels like coal, as well as special population protection policies remain necessary. Multicenter studies with larger sample sizes are needed.