bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cross-sectional comparison of the association between three different insulin resistance surrogates and frailty: NHANES 1999-2018
Authors: Lai Tianjie , Guan Fenglei , Chen Yunxian , Hu Konghe 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundThe correlation between various insulin resistance surrogates and frailty remains under investigation in the scientific community.MethodsData from NHANES (1999-2018) were used. We utilized weighted binary logistic regression, trend tests, RCS analysis, and subgroup analysis to comprehensively assess the link between METS-IR, HOMA-IR, and TyG, and frailty risk.ResultsThe results revealed a significant positive association between high levels of METS-IR, HOMA-IR, and TyG with the risk of frailty in all models. Notably, in model 4, the highest quintile of METS-IR showed the strongest link (OR: 2.960, 95% CI: 2.219-3.949), with HOMA-IR (OR: 2.522, 95% CI: 1.927-3.301) following closely behind. Trend tests revealed a positive trend between METS-IR, HOMA-IR, and TyG with the risk of frailty (P for trend &lt; 0.05). RCS analysis showed a linear relationship between METS-IR and the risk of frailty (P for nonlinearity &gt; 0.05). In contrast, HOMA-IR and TyG exhibited a U-shaped nonlinear relationship (P for nonlinearity &lt; 0.05).ConclusionThe research identified a linear association between METS-IR and frailty risk, whereas HOMA-IR and TyG displayed a U-shaped, nonlinear relationship pattern with the risk of frailty. Among the varying levels examined, the linkage between METS-IR and frailty was most pronounced in the top quintile.
Zinc dampens antitumor immunity by promoting Foxp3+ regulatory T cells
Authors: Narayan Sugandha , Dalal Rajdeep , Rizvi Zaigham Abbas , Awasthi Amit 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionThe role of zinc (Zn) in tumor development and immune modulation has always been paradoxical. This study redefines our understanding of the impact of Zn on cancer progression and therapeutic strategies.MethodsWe investigated the effects of dietary Zn levels on tumor progression and immune responses. This included examining the impact of both high and deficient dietary Zn, as well as Zn chelation, on tumor growth and immune cell populations. Specifically, we analyzed the frequency of Foxp3+ regulatory T-cells (Tregs) and identified the role of FOXO1 in Zn-mediated effects on Tregs. Additionally, we explored the therapeutic potential of clioquinol (CQ) in enhancing α-PD-1 immunotherapy responses, particularly in melanoma.ResultsOur findings show that high dietary Zn promotes tumor progression by fostering a protumorigenic environment mediated by T cells. Increased Zn intake was found to facilitate tumor progression by increasing Foxp3+ Treg frequency. In contrast, deficiency in dietary Zn and chelation of tissue Zn emerged as potent drivers of antitumor immunity. We pinpointed FOXO1 as the master regulator governing the influence of Zn on Tregs.DiscussionThese results reveal a novel mechanistic insight into how Zn influences tumor progression and immune regulation. The identification of FOXO1 as a key regulator opens new avenues for understanding the role of Zn in cancer biology. Furthermore, we introduce a promising therapeutic approach by showing that administering clioquinol (CQ) significantly enhances α-PD-1 immunotherapy response, particularly in melanoma. These revelations transform our comprehension of the multifaceted role of Zn in tumorigenesis and immune regulation, highlighting innovative possibilities for cancer therapy.
Identification of predictive models including polymorphisms in cytokines genes and clinical variables associated with post-transplant complications after identical HLA-allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Muñiz Paula , Martínez-García María , Bailén Rebeca , Chicano María , Oarbeascoa Gillen , Triviño Juan Carlos , de la Iglesia-San Sebastian Ismael , Fernández de Córdoba Sara , Anguita Javier , Kwon Mi , Díez-Martín José Luis , Olmos Pablo M. , Martínez-Laperche Carolina , Buño Ismael 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundsAlthough allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a potentially curative therapy for hematological malignancies, it can be associated with relevant post-transplant complications. Several reports have shown that polymorphisms in immune system genes are correlated with the development of post-transplant complications. Within this context, this work focuses on identifying novel polymorphisms in cytokine genes and developing predictive models to anticipate the risk of developing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), transplantation-related mortality (TRM), relapse and overall survival (OS).MethodsOur group developed a 132-cytokine gene panel which was tested in 90 patients who underwent an HLA-identical sibling-donor allo-HSCT. Bayesian logistic regression (BLR) models were used to select the most relevant variables. Based on the cut-off points selected for each model, patients were classified as being at high or low-risk for each of the post-transplant complications (aGVHD II-IV, aGVHD III-IV, cGVHD, mod-sev cGVHD, TRM, relapse and OS).ResultsA total of 737 polymorphisms were selected from the custom panel genes. Of these, 41 polymorphisms were included in the predictive models in 30 cytokine genes were selected (17 interleukins and 13 chemokines). Of these polymorphisms, 5 (12.2%) were located in coding regions, and 36 (87.8%) in non-coding regions. All models had a statistical significance of p&lt;0.0001.ConclusionOverall, genomic polymorphisms in cytokine genes make it possible to anticipate the development all complications studied following allo-HSCT and, consequently, to optimize the clinical management of patients.
Extracellular vesicles from a novel Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain suppress inflammation and promote M2 macrophage polarization
Authors: Gong Shuang , Zeng Ruixia , Liu Ling , Wang Rui , Xue Man , Dong Hao , Wu Zhigang , Zhang Yibo 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundLactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) is known for its probiotic properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Recent studies have highlighted the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from prokaryotic cells in anti-inflammatory effects.ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of extracellular vesicles derived from a newly isolated strain of L. plantarum (LP25 strain) and their role in macrophage polarization.MethodsThe LP25 strain and its extracellular vesicles were isolated and identified through genomic sequencing, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). RAW 264.7 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and/or LP25-derived extracellular vesicles (LEV). Morphological changes in the cells were observed, and the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6)、iNOS and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) 、Arg-1 were measured using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Flow cytometry was used to detect the expression of Arg-1 in the treated cells.ResultsTreatment with LP25 EVs led to significant morphological changes in RAW 264.7 cells exposed to LPS. LP25 EVs treatment resulted in increased expression of Arg-1 and anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10, and decreased expression of iNOS and surface markers protein CD86. Flow cytometry confirmed the increased expression of the M2 macrophage marker Arg-1 in the LP25 EVs-treated group.ConclusionExtracellular vesicles from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP25 can suppress inflammatory responses and promote the polarization of macrophages toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. These findings provide new evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory activity of L. plantarum-derived EVs.
A scoping review of lymphatic filariasis research in Zambia
Authors: Shirley Hugh , Orriols Adrienne M. , Hogan Dylan , Chimfwembe Kingford , Bwalya Alinaswe , Sibbuku Kaala , Lardizabal Janelle , Tillotson Sophie , Grifferty Grace , Coombs Philip Espinola , Wamai Richard 
Published: August 2024

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical disease caused by microfilariae of the Wuchereria and Brugia genus and spread by mosquitoes. Chronic infection and associated morbidity leads to poor psychosocial and economic outcomes. LF elimination programs have been underway in many countries, including Zambia, a country in Sub-Saharan Africa where LF has long been endemic. Zambia has made great progress in moving towards elimination through a multipronged strategy involving mass drug administration, regular surveillance, and morbidity management and disease prevention. This scoping review aims to capture the breadth of literature published on LF in Zambia to support further research into the disease that may support ongoing elimination efforts, research gaps, and funding opportunities. PRISMA-ScR and JBI scoping review guidelines were used in the design and conduct of this scoping review, leading to 475 full-text articles screened and included in data analysis, with analyzed information including publication year, journal, study theme, study type, citation number, and funding sources. The resulting screen found many articles focused on disease epidemiology in Zambia, but less research on vectors, treatment and prevention. Therefore, we conclude there may be opportunities to better understand this disease in the Zambian context through filling in these research gaps.Systematic review registrationhttps://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/7W62G
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Australian allied hearing-healthcare professionals: survey on comorbid hearing loss and cognitive impairment
Authors: Jayakody Dona M. P. , Je Eunkyeong Grace , Livings Isabelle , McIlhiney Paul , Trevenen Michelle , Kekez Damir , Mavaddat Nahal 
Published: August 2024

PurposeAs hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor of dementia, allied hearing-healthcare professionals (AHHPs) frequently see older patients who are affected by both conditions. However, little is known about how well Australian AHHP’s understand the complexities of providing care to patients with comorbid hearing loss and dementia, as well as their associated views and practices. Thus, the current study used a survey to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of Australian AHHPs in managing comorbid patients.Materials and methodsA cross-sectional design was used, wherein a KAP survey was developed and distributed to eligible AHHPs via Qualtrics. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression.Results101 Australian AHHPs met inclusion criteria (2.5% of approximately 4,000 invited AHHPs), and participated in the study. Although participants generally possessed a high level of knowledge for the association between hearing loss and cognitive impairment, their specific knowledge and practices in relation to cognitive screening tests and referral pathways was limited. Participants also expressed mostly positive attitudes towards their role in assisting patients with comorbid hearing loss and dementia. Furthermore, our results suggested that some KAPs relevant to comorbid patients differed based on sex, qualification, and ethnicity.ConclusionThis study identified gaps in the knowledge and practices of Australian AHHPs with regard to the complexities of addressing comorbid cognitive impairment and hearing loss. These findings will help to develop training programs to empower AHHPs to deliver optimal healthcare services to comorbid patients.
Effects of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis on gut flora diversity and intestinal metabolites in SuHx mice
Authors: Abudukeremu Asimuguli , Aikemu Ainiwaer , Yang Tao , Fang Lei , Aihemaitituoheti Adilai , Zhang Yupeng , Shanahaiti Daliya , Nijiati Yiliyaer 
Published: August 2024

ObjectivePulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) poses a significant challenge due to its limited therapeutic options and high mortality rates. The ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis plays a pivotal role in regulating blood pressure and inhibiting myocardial remodeling. However, the precise mechanistic links between the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis and PAH remain poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the involvement of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis in the development of PAH.MethodsPAH was induced in mice using Sugen5416/hypoxia, PAAT/PET ratio and PA were detected using cardiac ultrasound; inflammation related factors such as MCP-1, TNF, IL-10and IL-12p70 were detected in intestines using cytometric bead array (CBA) kits; histopathological and morphological changes in lung and intestinal tissues were assessed via HE staining and Masson staining to evaluate the progression of PAH. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting were employed to determine the expression levels of two tight junction proteins, occludin and ZO-1, in intestinal tissues. Additionally, 16rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics by LC-MS/MS techniques were utilized to investigate the impact of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis on microbial diversity and metabolomics of intestinal contents.ResultsActivation of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis improves heart function, reduces intestines inflammatory factors and ameliorates pathological and histological alterations in SuHx mice. This activation notably upregulated the expression of occludin and ZO-1 proteins in intestinal tissues and promoted the proliferation of SCFA-producing bacteria genera, such as g_Candidatus_Saccharimonas. Furthermore, it enhanced the abundance of beneficial metabolites, including tryptophan and butyric acid.ConclusionThe findings suggest that modulation of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis can alleviate PAH by regulating intestinal microbes and metabolites. These results highlight the potential of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis as a promising therapeutic target for clinical management of PAH.
Neglected role of microelements in determining soil microbial communities and fruit micronutrients in loquat orchards
Authors: Wang Xianting , Wang Li , Wu Bibo , Yuan Zhaofeng , Zhong Yingying , Qi Lin , Wang Miao , Wu Yuping , Ge Tida , Zhu Zhenke 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionThe relationships among microelements and soil microbial communities are essential for understanding the maintenance of soil's ecological functions and their effects on fruit quality in orchards. However, these relationships have not been adequately studied, despite the importance of microelements for the growth of microorganisms and plants.MethodsTo address this research gap, we investigated the relationships among microelements (K, Ca, Na, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu), the diversity and composition of soil microbiomes, and fruit quality in loquat orchards.ResultsWe found that microelements explained more variations in microbial community structures than geographic position, basic soil properties, and macroelements, with 19.6–42.6% of bacterial, 4.3–27.7% of fungal, and 5.9–18.8% of protistan genera significantly correlated with microelements. Among the microelements, AMg and ACu were the most influential in determining the soil microbiome. The soil microbes exhibited varied threshold values for environmental breadth among the microelements, with the broadest range for AMg and the narrowest for AZn. Additionally, the microbes showed significant phylogenetic signals for all microelements, with an increasing divergence of soil microelements. The dominant community assembly shifted from homogeneous selection to stochastic, and then to heterogeneous selection. Moreover, microelements and the microbiome were the top two factors individually explaining 11.0 and 11.4% of fruit quality variation, respectively.DiscussionThese results highlight the importance of microelement fertilization in orchard management and provide scientific guidance for improving fruit quality.
Temporal summation does not predict the acupuncture response in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain
Authors: Baeumler Petra , Schäfer Margherita , Möhring Luise , Irnich Dominik 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionPreviously, we had observed that immediate pain reduction after one acupuncture treatment was associated with high temporal summation of pain (TS) at a pain free control site and younger age in a mixed population of chronic pain patients. The aim of the present study was to verify these results in chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP) and to collect pilot data on the association between TS and the response to an acupuncture series.MethodsTS at a pain free control site (back of dominant hand) and at the pain site was quantified by the pin-prick induced wind-up ratio (WUR) in 60 LBP patients aged 50 years or younger. Response to one acupuncture treatment was assessed by change in pain intensity and pressure pain threshold (PPT) at the pain site. The primary hypothesis was that a high TS (WUR &gt; 2.5) would be associated with a clinically relevant reduction in pain intensity of at least 30%. In study part two, 26 patients received nine additional treatments. Response to the acupuncture series was assessed by the pain intensity during the last week, the PPT and the Hannover functional ability questionnaire (FFbH-R).ResultsAn immediate reduction in pain intensity of at least 30% was frequent irrespective of TS at the control site (low vs. high TS 58% vs. 72%, p = 0.266). High TS at the pain site was also not significantly associated with a clinically relevant immediate reduction in pain intensity (low vs. high TS 46% vs. 73%, p = 0.064). The PPT was not changed after one acupuncture treatment. Study part two did not reveal a consistent association between TS at the control site and any of the outcome measures but also a trend toward a higher chance for a clinically relevant response along with low TS at the pain site.ConclusionOur results do not suggest an important role of TS for predicting a clinically important acupuncture effect or the response to a series of 10 acupuncture treatments in patients with chronic non-specific LBP. Overall high response rates imply that acupuncture is a suitable treatment option for LBP patients irrespective of their TS.
The relationship between the ratio of the supraspinatus muscle thickness measured by ultrasound imaging and glenohumeral subluxation in stroke patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xie Hualong , Zhang Qing , Zhan Jiawen , Dong Jige , Chen Jing , Kang Guoxin , Liu Huilin , Huang Qiuchen , Zhu Liguo , Onoda Ko , Maruyama Hitoshi , Liu Shan , Huo Ming 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionGlenohumeral subluxation (GHS) is a common complication in stroke patients with hemiplegia, occurring in approximately 17–81% of cases. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between shoulder muscle thickness and the degree of subluxation using ultrasound imaging.MethodsA cross-sectional study of 61 stroke patients with hemiplegia was conducted, measuring supraspinatus muscle thickness, deltoid muscle thickness, and acromion-greater tuberosity (AGT). Logistic regression and ROC analyses were used. ROC curves, calibration plots, and decision curves were drawn on the training and validation sets.ResultsAccording to logistic regression analysis, the ratio of supraspinatus muscle thickness was statistically significant (OR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.70–0.92; p &lt; 0.01), and it was an independent factor for evaluating the presence or absence of GHS. An AUC of 0.906 (95% CI, 0.802–1.000) was found in the training set; meanwhile, the AUC in the validation set was 0.857 (95% CI, 0.669–1.000), indicating good performance. According to the training set ROC curve, the most effective statistical threshold was 93%, with a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 96%.DiscussionThe ratio of supraspinatus muscle thickness is a valuable criterion for evaluating GHS risk, supporting targeted rehabilitation interventions.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of rimegepant for on-demand acute treatment of migraine in China
Authors: Tian Shuo , Yang Yuping , Tan Shenglan , Luo Jiani , Yang Chuanyu , Liu Qiao , Guo Yujin 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThis study assesses the cost-effectiveness of rimegepant for the on-demand acute treatment of migraine in the Chinese population, focusing on headache relief within a 2 h timeframe. Utilizing data from Phase III clinical trials on rimegepant involving Asian populations, this analysis aims to provide essential insights for healthcare decision-making in the context of migraine management in China.Patients and methodsEmploying a decision tree model, this research evaluates the cost-effectiveness of rimegepant over a concise 2 h period, exclusively considering its direct market price of 219.00 CNY per dose for on-demand, single-use treatment upon approval in China. This model is based on pain relief outcomes from a clinical trial, categorizing health outcomes by the achievement of pain freedom and alleviation from the most bothersome symptom within two hours post-administration.ResultsThe study unveils that rimegepant adds 0.0018 quality-adjusted life days (QALD) with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 122,166.07 CNY/QALD. Against a daily cost-effectiveness threshold derived from the 2023 per capita GDP of China (734.45 CNY/day), rimegepant falls short of proving its cost-effectiveness. A significant price reduction to approximately 1.32 CNY per dose is required for rimegepant to be considered cost-effective within this framework. Furthermore, a series of sensitivity analyses were conducted to validate the robustness of these results.ConclusionWhile rimegepant shows clinical efficacy in providing rapid relief from migraine symptoms, its current pricing exceeds the threshold for cost-effectiveness in the Chinese healthcare setting. This study underscores the need for price adjustments to enhance the accessibility and economic viability of new migraine treatments.
Anti-seizure medication prescription preferences: a Moroccan multicenter study
Authors: Naji Yahya , Hrouch Wafa , Laadami Sara , Adali Nawal 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundThe management of epilepsy is mainly based on antiseizure medications (ASMs). More than 20 ASMs have been introduced in clinical practice, providing a multitude of prescription choices. To date, there are no published data on the trends in ASMs prescriptions in Morocco. Therefore, we conducted a survey among practicing neurologists in seven tertiary referral hospitals in Morocco to study the current ASMs prescription preferences and their modifying factors.MethodsOur descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was based on a survey sent between January and April 2022 to neurologists practicing in seven tertiary referral hospitals in Morocco. Information regarding the prescription of ASMs was collected using an exploitation form and analyzed using the SPSS version 13 software.ResultsBased on questionnaire responses, our results showed that Valproic acid (96.3%) and Lamotrigine (59.8%) were the two most prescribed ASMs for generalized seizure types. For focal seizure types, Carbamazepine (98.8%) and Levetiracetam (34.1%) were the most commonly prescribed drugs, whereas for combined focal and generalized seizure types, the combination of Valproic acid and Carbamazepine (38.55%) was the most prescribed. Phenobarbital was the most commonly prescribed ASM for status epilepticus (40.2%). These prescription preferences were mainly due to seizure types, cost, health insurance coverage, years of experience, and additional epileptology training (p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionOur results show a shift in the prescription of ASMs in Morocco. Similar to many other countries, valproic acid and carbamazepine are considered the first-line treatments for generalized and focal seizure types. Some factors remain as major challenges in enhancing epilepsy management in Morocco.