bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial impact of a propolis/PVA/chitosan composite and its prospective application against methicillin resistance bacterial infection
Authors: Alarjani Khaloud Mohamed , Yehia Hany Mohamed , Badr Ahmed Noah , Ali Hatem S. , Al-Masoud Abdulrahman H. , Alhaqbani Sarah M. , Alkhatib Shahad A. , Rady Ahmed M. , Abdel-Maksoud Mostafa 
Published: July 2024

Seriously damaged skin could be infected by methicillin-resistant bacteria, which delays restoration. Propolis has bioactivity linked with its minor components, such as antimicrobials and antioxidants. Active sites in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) can enhance the nano-loading of natural extracts with activity amelioration. Korean propolis extract (KPE) loading to a nanocomposite possibly enhances its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potency. Composites were formed using two PVA/CS structures (1:1; 2:1), and their skin-application appropriateness was determined by mechanical properties, moisture content, water activity, and color. The composite of PVA/CS (1:1) was more practicable for KPE-loading. Increasing KPE concentrations (50, 100, 150, and 200 ng/mL) alters composite bioactivity measured by Fourier transmission infrared (FT-IR). Antibacterial potency of 200 ng KPE/mL was the most effective concentration, followed by 150 ng KPE/mL, against Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Clostridium perfringens. The composite activity was measured as minimum inhibition (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentrations (MBC). At 200 ng KPE/mL, MIC and MBC against MRSA were 14.93 ± 1.21 and 20.21 ± 1.97 mg composite/mL, respectively. Significant inhibition was also recorded for antibiofilm formation, where MRSA growth was not detected after 4 hours of time intervals to the stainless-steel coupon. Compared to planktonic bacteria, the formed barrier of PVA/CS restrained the biofilm matrix formation and supported KPE antimicrobial. The impact of inhibition against biofilm formation depends on two parallel mechanisms (PVA barrier with hydrogen bonds, besides nano-KPE particle penetration into bacterial cells). The KPE-composite application to rats’ wounds shows significantly reduced MRSA infection. The results demonstrate the capability of KPE composite in reducing infection, healing correctly, and restoring hair. The wound swabbed test emphasizes this capacity, in which bacterial growth rate restriction was evaluated using a plate count assay. The results recommended 150 ng KPE/mL loading into CS/PVA (1:1) as an effective anti-pathogenic treatment, particularly against the MRSA infection of wounds.
Efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of sleep disorders among patients with Parkinson’s disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Tan Wei-qiang , Liu Qing , Cen Ming-jun , Leong Ian I. , Pan Zhao-quan , Liao Mu-xi , Zhuang Li-xing 
Published: July 2024

ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as an adjunct therapy for treating sleep disorders in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).MethodsWe conducted comprehensive searches in eight databases from inception through September 2023, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP), and Wanfang Database. The objective was to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating HBOT’s effectiveness in alleviating sleep disorder symptoms in PD patients as an adjunct therapy. Literature screening and data extraction were independently executed by the authors. Meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.3 software, and publication bias and sensitivity analyses were assessed using Stata 17.0 software.ResultsSeven RCTs involving 461 participants were included. The findings revealed that the addition of HBOT significantly enhanced sleep efficiency (MD = 15.26, 95% CI [10.89, 19.63], p &lt; 0.00001), increased time in bed (MD = 69.65, 95% CI [43.01, 96.30], p &lt; 0.00001), total sleep time (MD = 75.87, 95% CI [25.42, 126.31], p = 0.003), slow-wave sleep (SWS) time (MD = 6.14, 95% CI [3.95, 8.34], p &lt; 0.00001), and rapid eye movement sleep (REM) time (MD = 4.07, 95% CI [2.05, 6.08], p &lt; 0.0001), and reduced awakening frequency (MD = −11.55, 95% CI [−15.42, −7.68], p &lt; 0.00001) and sleep latency (MD = −6.60, 95% CI [−9.43, −3.89], p &lt; 0.00001). Additionally, significant improvements were observed in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (MD = −2.52, 95% CI [−2.85, −2.18], p &lt; 0.00001), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) (MD = −2.90, 95% CI [−3.34, −2.47], p &lt; 0.00001), Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part III (UPDRS III) (MD = −1.32, 95% CI [−2.16, −0.47], p = 0.002), and Hoehn and Yahr grading (H-Y grading) (MD = −0.15, 95% CI [−0.28, −0.01], p = 0.03).ConclusionThe current meta-analysis supports the efficacy of HBOT as an adjunct therapy in managing sleep disorders in PD patients. It is recommended for PD patients experiencing sleep disturbances.Systematic review registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, identifier: CRD42023462201.
Apathy in subarachnoid hemorrhage: study protocol for a 1-year follow-up study
Authors: Tang Wai Kwong , Wong Kwok Chu George 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionApathy is a frequent and debilitating condition among subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) survivors. Few studies have evaluated apathy in SAH, and none have examined the course of the condition, predictors of persistent apathy, or its impact on functional outcomes. The proposed study will examine, for the first time, the 12-month course of apathy and its impact on functional outcomes in the largest cohort of SAH survivors to date.Methods and analysisThe current study is designed as a prospective cohort study with a duration of 36 months. We will recruit 240 participants. A trained research assistant will assess apathy using the Apathy Evaluation Scale 3 months after SAH. Patients’ level of functioning, comorbidity, global cognitive functioning, and depressive symptoms will be assessed. All SAH patients will participate in follow-up assessments of apathy and functioning at 9 (T2) and 15 months (T3) post-SAH or at 6 and 12 months after the first assessment. Predictors of persistent apathy and the impact of apathy on functional outcomes will be examined.DiscussionThis will be the first large-scale 1-year follow-up study of apathy in SAH survivors. The findings will provide valuable data to advance our understanding of the clinical course of apathy in this population. Moreover, the results will have clinical relevance by providing essential information to patients, caregivers, and clinicians; promoting the evaluation of apathy; and facilitating the development of prevention strategies, rehabilitation programs, and therapeutic options.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval for this study was obtained from the Joint Chinese University of Hong Kong-New Territories East Cluster Clinical Research Ethics Committee (CREC Ref. No.: 2023.339) on 3 October 2023. The findings of this study will be shared through publication in a peer-reviewed journal, presentations at relevant conferences, and dissemination through social media platforms.
The abnormalities of brain function in females with primary insomnia: a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Zhang Haiyi , Jie Pingping , Liu Yingchun , Wu Lunxin , Wang Oucheng , Zhang Yong , Fang Jiliang , Wang Quan , Zhao Jie , Liu Yong 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundThe neuropathologic mechanism of primary insomnia (PI) of females remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the features of amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) in females with PI using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and then explore the abnormalities of functional connectivity (FC).Materials and methodsA total of 39 female PI patients and 31 female healthy controls (HC) were enrolled in the study. The sleep condition was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and their depressive symptom was evaluated using the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-24). The rs-fMRI was once conducted for every subject. ReHo, ALFF, and ROI-based FC were used to analyze the changes of brain function.ResultsALFF values were increased in the Cerebelum_4_5_L, as well as decreased ALFF in the bilateral Frontal_Sup_Medial (SFGmed), Angular_L (ANG.L), Parietal_Inf_R (IPL.R), SupraMarginal_R (SMG.R), and Postcentral_R (PoCG.R). ReHo values were increased in the Temporal_Pole_Mid_R (TPOsup.R), as well as decreased ReHo in the Insula_R (INS.R), Frontal_Inf_Oper_R (ORBinf.R), Putamen_R (PUT.R), Rolandic_Oper_R (ROL.R), bilateral Cingulum_Post (PCG), bilateral Frontal_Sup_Medial (SFGmed), bilateral anterior cingulate and paracingulate gyri (ACG), and the bilateral precuneus (PCUN). Across the entire brain, there was a decline in the FC between Angular_R and Frontal_Sup_Medial_L.ConclusionAlterations in brain regions of female patients with PI involved multiple functional networks, including the default mode network, the salience network, the central executive network, and the limbic network. Reduced coordination between functional networks may be an important mechanism for insomnia and may lead to reduced cognitive function and decision-making ability.
Striatal GABA levels correlate with risk sensitivity in monetary loss
Authors: Kondo Hirohito M. , Oba Takeyuki , Ezaki Takahiro , Kochiyama Takanori , Shimada Yasuhiro , Ohira Hideki 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundDecision-making under risk is a common challenge. It is known that risk-taking behavior varies between contexts of reward and punishment, yet the mechanisms underlying this asymmetry in risk sensitivity remain unclear.MethodsThis study used a monetary task to investigate neurochemical mechanisms and brain dynamics underpinning risk sensitivity. Twenty-eight participants engaged in a task requiring selection of visual stimuli to maximize monetary gains and minimize monetary losses. We modeled participant trial-and-error processes using reinforcement learning.ResultsParticipants with higher subjective utility parameters showed risk preference in the gain domain (r = −0.59) and risk avoidance in the loss domain (r = −0.77). Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) revealed that risk avoidance in the loss domain was associated with γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the ventral striatum (r = −0.42), but not in the insula (r = −0.15). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we tested whether risk-sensitive brain dynamics contribute to participant risky choices. Energy landscape analyses demonstrated that higher switching rates between brain states, including the striatum and insula, were correlated with risk avoidance in the loss domain (r = −0.59), a relationship not observed in the gain domain (r = −0.02).ConclusionsThese findings from MRS and fMRI suggest that distinct mechanisms are involved in gain/loss decision making, mediated by subcortical neurometabolite levels and brain dynamic transitions.
The association between continuous polypharmacy and hospitalization, emergency department visits, and death in older adults: a nationwide large cohort study
Authors: Chae Jungmi , Cho Ho Jin , Yoon Sang-Heon , Kim Dong-Sook 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the association between continuous polypharmacy and hospitalization, emergency department (ED) visits, and death.MethodsThis retrospective study utilized 6,443,896 patients aged between 65 and 84 years of National Health Insurance claims data from 2016 to 2018. Polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy were defined as the concurrent use of 5 or more and 10 or more medications, respectively, for durations of both 90 days or more and 180 days or more within a 1-year observation period. The primary outcome measures included all-cause hospitalization, ED visits, and mortality. Multiple logistic regression models were used adjusting for patients’ general characteristics, comorbidities, and history of hospitalization or ED visits.ResultsAmong 2,693,897 patients aged 65–84 years who had used medicines for 180 days or more (2,955,755 patients taking medicines for 90 days or more), the adverse outcomes were as follows: 20.5% (20.3%) experienced hospitalization, 10.9% (10.8%) visited the ED, and 1% (1%) died, respectively. In patients who exhibited polypharmacy for more than 180 days, the adjusted odds ratio of adverse outcomes was 1.32 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.31–1.33) for hospitalization, 1.32 (95% CI, 1.31–1.33) for ED visits, 1.63 (95% CI, 1.59–1.67) for death, and that in excessive polypharmacy patients for more than 180 days was 1.85 for hospitalization, 1.92 for ED visits, and 2.57 for death, compared to non-polypharmacy patients.ConclusionOur results suggest that polypharmacy in older adults might lead to negative health consequences. Thus, interventions to optimize polypharmacy may need to be implemented.
Single and combined strategies for mesenchymal stem cell exosomes alleviate liver fibrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical animal models
Authors: Zhou Xiaolei , Xu Yan , Wang Xuesong , Lu Wenming , Tang Xingkun , Jin Yu , Ye Junsong 
Published: July 2024

Background: The efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in treating liver fibrosis has been supported by various clinical studies. However, stem cell transplantation is limited in clinical application due to its low survival rate, low liver implantation rate, and possible carcinogenicity. Recently, there has been increasing interest in the use of MSC-exos due to their widespread availability, low immunogenicity, and non-carcinogenic properties. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of MSC-exos in treating liver fibrosis and preventing progression to end-stage liver disease.Objective: This study aimed to systematically investigate the efficacy of MSC-exos single administration in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis and the combined advantages of MSC-exos in combination with drug therapy (MSC-exos-drugs).Methods: Data sources included PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, which were built up to January 2024. The population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study design (PICOS) principle was used to screen the literature, and the quality of the literature was evaluated to assess the risk of bias. Finally, the data from each study’s outcome indicators were extracted for a combined analysis.Results: After screening, a total of 18 papers (19 studies) were included, of which 12 involved MSC-exos single administration for the treatment of liver fibrosis and 6 involved MSC-exos-drugs for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Pooled analysis revealed that MSC-exos significantly improved liver function, promoted the repair of damaged liver tissue, and slowed the progression of hepatic fibrosis and that MSC-exos-drugs were more efficacious than MSC-exos single administration. Subgroup analyses revealed that the use of AD-MSC-exos resulted in more consistent and significant efficacy when MSC-exos was used to treat hepatic fibrosis. For MSC-exos-drugs, a more stable end result is obtained by kit extraction. Similarly, infusion through the abdominal cavity is more effective.Conclusion: The results suggest that MSC-exos can effectively treat liver fibrosis and that MSC-exos-drugs are more effective than MSC-exos single administration. Although the results of the subgroup analyses provide recommendations for clinical treatment, a large number of high-quality experimental validations are still needed.Systematic Review Registration: CRD42024516199.
The feasibility and effectiveness of remote cognitive training on cognitive function and work performance in workers
Authors: Shibaoka Michi , Masuda Masashi , Iwasawa Satoko , Ikezawa Satoru , Eguchi Hisashi , Nakagome Kazuyuki 
Published: July 2024

ObjectivesWe aimed to determine whether remote cognitive training (CT) is feasible and has the potential to improve cognitive function and work performance in Japanese workers.MethodsFrom June to September 2020, this intervention time series study enrolled workers aged 18–65 years from 10 companies located in a metropolitan area of Japan. Cognitive function tests and self-administered questionnaires were completed by the participants three times: at baseline, after 12 weeks of CT, and after a further 12 weeks following cessation. We measured work performance with the question: “How would you rate your performance (compared with your optimum performance) over the past 4 weeks?” Responses were made via a visual analog scale (0–100). Cognitive function was assessed using the THINC-integrated tool, which is a brief, objective computerized cognitive assessment battery. For our computerized remote CT intervention, BrainHQ was used on the basis of our scientific rationale and the empirical literature. We recommended three 20-min sessions of BrainHQ per week and sent participants three reminders.ResultsIn total, 119 participants were recruited to this study. Only 22.7% of the subjects achieved the recommended training time of 720 min over 12 weeks. The median training time was used to divide participants into long and short- training groups. The long-training group showed a greater improvement in attention and executive function than the short-training group but there was no significant improvement in work performance after CT compared to baseline.ConclusionOur results suggest that although remote CT was not feasible enough, the effects on cognitive function can be expected by increasing training time and motivation.
The relationship between peer support and sleep quality among Chinese college students: the mediating role of physical exercise atmosphere and the moderating effect of eHealth literacy
Authors: Li Jin 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundPoor sleep quality has emerged as a prevalent health issue among college students. This study aims to explore the mechanism of sleep quality among college students by constructing a moderated mediation model.MethodsThe Peer Support Scale, Physical Exercise Atmosphere Scale, eHealth Literacy Scale and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were used to conduct a survey and analysis on 1,085 questionnaires, which were distributed among students from four universities in the northwest, northeast and central regions of China.Results(1) A significant pairwise correlation exists between peer support, physical exercise atmosphere, eHealth literacy and sleep quality (P &lt; 0.001); (2) Physical exercise atmosphere plays a mediating role between peer support and sleep quality, with a mediating effect accounting for 28.08%; (3) eHealth literacy can significantly moderate the strength of the relationships between peer support and exercise atmosphere, between peer support and sleep quality, and between physical exercise atmosphere and sleep quality. This study revealed the relationship between peer support and sleep quality among college students and its influencing mechanism, and provided theoretical and practical basis for improving college students' sleep quality from the perspectives of peer support, physical exercise atmosphere, and eHealth literacy.
Exploring social media determinants in fostering pro-environmental behavior: insights from social impact theory and the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Liao Chi-Horng 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThis study investigates the impact of social media on pro-environmental behavior (PEB) through the lenses of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Social Impact Theory. The research aims to elucidate how social media influences Environmental Attitude (EA) and Subjective Norms (SN), and how these factors contribute to Behavioral Intentions (BI) that ultimately affect PEB. Additionally, it examines the moderating effect of Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC) on the relationship between BI and PEB.MethodsTo explore these relationships, the study employs a dual methodological approach using Variance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (VBSEM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Data were collected from two distinct samples: 1200 participants from Taiwan for the SEM analysis and 602 respondents for the ANN study. SEM was utilized to explore causal relationships, while ANN was employed to enhance predictive accuracy.ResultsThe SEM analysis reveals that social media significantly affects both EA and SN, except for Social Networking Site Involvement (SNSI), which does not significantly impact EA. Additionally, the findings indicate that BI mediates the relationship between EA and PEB. However, BI does not mediate the SN-PEB relationship, and the link between SN and BI is found to be non-significant. Empirical evidence also suggests that PBC moderates the BI-PEB relationship, with a stronger influence observed under higher levels of PBC and a weaker influence under lower levels.DiscussionThese results underscore the complex dynamics between social media factors and pro-environmental behavior. The study concludes that while social media plays a significant role in shaping EA and SN, its impact on EA is not mediated by SNSI. Furthermore, PBC significantly moderates the BI-PEB relationship, highlighting its critical role in PEB. The discussion addresses the implications of these findings, acknowledges the limitations encountered, and suggests potential avenues for future research.
Association between complete blood count-derived inflammatory markers and the risk of frailty and mortality in middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Tang Yu , Zhai Ying , Song Wenjing , Zhu Tengxiao , Xu Zichen , Jiang Luqing , Li Lei , Liu Daoqin , Wu Qiwen 
Published: July 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the association between six complete blood count (CBC)-derived inflammatory markers [neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), and pan-immune inflammation value (PIV)] and the risk of frailty and mortality.MethodsData were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2018. Mortality was identified using the National Death Index until December 31, 2019. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the association between six CBC-derived inflammatory markers and frailty. The Cox regression model assessed the association between six CBC-derived inflammatory markers and mortality in frail populations. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was used to visualize the association of the six CBC-derived inflammatory markers with mortality risk. The predictive value of CBC-derived inflammatory markers for mortality was further assessed using a random survival forest (RSF) approach.ResultsThis study analyzed data from a total of 16,705 middle-aged and older participants. Among them, 6,503 participants were frail, with a mortality rate of 41.47%. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that NLR, MLR, PLR, SII, SIRI, and PIV were positively associated with frailty risk. The Cox regression model revealed that participants in the highest quartile had a significantly increased risk of death compared to those in the lowest quartile: NLR (HR = 1.73, 95% CI:1.54, 1.94), MLR (HR = 1.71, 95% CI:1.51, 1.93), PLR (HR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.15, 1.43), SII (HR = 1.50, 95%CI:1.34, 1.68), SIRI (HR = 1.88, CI 95%:1.67, 2.12), PIV (HR = 1.55, 95%CI:1.38, 1.73). Random survival forest (RSF) analyses demonstrated that MLR had the highest predictive value for mortality risk middle-aged and older adult frail participants.ConclusionThe results suggest that CBC-derived inflammatory markers are associated with a higher risk of frailty as well as mortality in the middle and old-aged population of the United States.