bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the dentistry program in Iran using the context, input, process, and product (CIPP) model: a comprehensive analysis
Authors: Babadi Fatemeh , Esfandiari Misagh , Cheraghi Maria 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionAttaining a commendable level of quality in an educational program is not just important but imperative. Hence, this study was undertaken to assess the quality of the general dentistry program for students in Iran, utilizing the comprehensive Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) evaluation model.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was carried out among dentistry students in the 5th to 13th semesters at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahvaz, Iran. Data collection for this research utilized a questionnaire designed in alignment with the CIPP Evaluation Model. The perspectives of students were sought in assessing the four domains of context, input, process, and product. Statistical analysis of the data was conducted using ANOVA and T-test methods.ResultsThe mean scores of the educational program were as fallow: Content (2.76 ± 0.58), input (2.71 ± 0.65), process (2.51 ± 0.68), and product (3.31 ± 0.68). Overall, the quality of dentistry program was undesirable in all dimensions. Among these dimensions, “product” had the highest mean, while “process” had the lowest mean score.ConclusionThe results of this study indicate that the general dentistry educational program were Undesirable in all domains. The CIPP evaluation framework assists decision-makers and policymakers in determining the continuation or renewal of a training program by identifying its strengths and weaknesses.
Association between hearing loss, tinnitus, and chronic kidney disease: the NHANES 2015–2018
Authors: Zou Yihong , Tang Xiaona , Rao Kelang , Zhong Yanghong , Chen Xushan , Liang Yuyan , Pi Ying 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundPrevious studies suggested that chronic kidney disease (CKD) might contribute to hearing loss and tinnitus. Patients with CKD are often at risk of sudden onset hearing loss and tinnitus; however, few epidemiological investigations have been conducted on this topic. The purpose of this investigation was to analyze the correlation between hearing loss, tinnitus, and CKD based on information obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).MethodsUsing data from the NHANES 2015–2018, a cross-sectional analysis was conducted, which included 5,131 participants, and used multivariate logistic regression analyses and subgroup analysis to investigate the association between hearing loss, tinnitus, and CKD.ResultsCKD was associated independently with hearing loss, with the CKD group being more at risk of hearing loss than the non-CKD group [age-adjusted 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.54 (1.31–1.8), p &lt; 0.001]; multivariable-adjusted 95% CI: 1.31 (1.1–1.55), p = 0.002. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis did not find an association between CKD and tinnitus, however, further subgroup analyses showed a relationship in some populations.ConclusionThe results suggested that CKD is associated with hearing loss and tinnitus. The complexity of the relationship between CKD and hearing loss requires further research.
Uncovering the mechanism of Clostridium butyricum CBX 2021 to improve pig health based on in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Liu Xin , Qiu Xiaoyu , Yang Yong , Wang Jing , Wang Qi , Liu Jingbo , Huang Jinxiu , Yang Feiyun , Liu Zuohua , Qi Renli 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionAs a symbiotic probiotic for the host, Clostridium butyricum (CB) has the potential to strengthen the body’s immune system and improve intestinal health. However, the probiotic mechanism of CB is not completely understood. The Clostridium butyricum CBX 2021 strain isolated by our team from a health pig independently exhibits strong butyric acid production ability and stress resistance. Therefore, this study comprehensively investigated the efficacy of CBX 2021 in pigs and its mechanism of improving pig health.MethodsIn this study, we systematically revealed the probiotic effect and potential mechanism of the strain by using various methods such as microbiome, metabolites and transcriptome through animal experiments in vivo and cell experiments in vitro.ResultsOur in vivo study showed that CBX 2021 improved growth indicators such as daily weight gain in weaned piglets and also reduced diarrhea rates. Meanwhile, CBX 2021 significantly increased immunoglobulin levels in piglets, reduced contents of inflammatory factors and improved the intestinal barrier. Subsequently, 16S rRNA sequencing showed that CBX 2021 treatment implanted more butyric acid-producing bacteria (such as Faecalibacterium) in piglets and reduced the number of potentially pathogenic bacteria (like Rikenellaceae RC9_gut_group). With significant changes in the microbial community, CBX 2021 improved tryptophan metabolism and several alkaloids synthesis in piglets. Further in vitro experiments showed that CBX 2021 adhesion directly promoted the proliferation of a porcine intestinal epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2). Moreover, transcriptome analysis revealed that bacterial adhesion increased the expression of intracellular G protein-coupled receptors, inhibited the Notch signaling pathway, and led to a decrease in intracellular pro-inflammatory molecules.DiscussionThese results suggest that CBX 2021 may accelerate piglet growth by optimizing the intestinal microbiota, improving metabolic function and enhancing intestinal health.
Immediate and long-term brain activation of acupuncture on ischemic stroke patients: an ALE meta-analysis of fMRI studies
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Lu Hai , Ren Xuesong , Zhang Junfeng , Wang Yu , Zhang Chunhong , Zhao Xiaofeng 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundAcupuncture, as an alternative and complementary therapy recommended by the World Health Organization for stroke treatment, holds potential in ameliorating neurofunctional deficits induced by ischemic stroke (IS). Understanding the immediate and long-term effects of acupuncture and their interrelation would contribute to a better comprehension of the mechanisms underlying acupuncture efficacy.MethodsActivation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis was used to analyze the brain activation patterns reported in 21 relevant functional neuroimaging studies. Among these studies, 12 focused on the immediate brain activation and 9 on the long-term activation. Single dataset analysis were employed to identify both immediate and long-term brain activation of acupuncture treatment in IS patients, while contrast and conjunction analysis were utilized to explore distinctions and connections between the two.ResultsAccording to the ALE analysis, immediately after acupuncture treatment, IS patients exhibited an enhanced cluster centered around the right precuneus (PCUN) and a reduced cluster centered on the left middle frontal gyrus (MFG). After long-term acupuncture treatment, IS patients showed an enhanced cluster in the left PCUN, along with two reduced clusters in the right insula (INS) and hippocampus (HIP), respectively. Additionally, in comparison to long-term acupuncture treatment, the right angular gyrus (ANG) demonstrated higher ALE scores immediately after acupuncture, whereas long-term acupuncture resulted in higher scores in the left superior parietal gyrus (SPG). The intersecting cluster activated by both of them was located in the left cuneus (CUN).ConclusionThe findings provide initial insights into both the immediate and long-term brain activation patterns of acupuncture treatment for IS, as well as the intricate interplay between them. Both immediate and long-term acupuncture treatments showed distinct patterns of brain activation, with the left CUN emerging as a crucial regulatory region in their association.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, CRD42023480834.
Bibliometric analysis of electroencephalogram research in Parkinson’s disease from 2004 to 2023
Authors: Liao Xiao-Yu , Gao Ya-Xin , Qian Ting-Ting , Zhou Lu-Han , Li Li-Qin , Gong Yan , Ye Tian-Fen 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundParkinson’s disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions globally. It encompasses both motor and non-motor symptoms, with a notable impact on patients’ quality of life. Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive tool that is increasingly utilized to investigate neural mechanisms in PD, identify early diagnostic markers, and assess therapeutic responses.MethodsThe data were sourced from the Science Citation Index Expanded within the Web of Science Core Collection database, focusing on publications related to EEG research in PD from 2004 to 2023. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was conducted using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software. The analysis began with an evaluation of the selected publications, identifying leading countries, institutions, authors, and journals, as well as co-cited references, to summarize the current state of EEG research in PD. Keywords are employed to identify research topics that are currently of interest in this field through the analysis of high-frequency keyword co-occurrence and cluster analysis. Finally, burst keywords were identified to uncover emerging trends and research frontiers in the field, highlighting shifts in interest and identifying future research directions.ResultsA total of 1,559 publications on EEG research in PD were identified. The United States, Germany, and England have made notable contributions to the field. The University of London is the leading institution in terms of publication output, with the University of California closely following. The most prolific authors are Brown P, Fuhr P, and Stam C In terms of total citations and per-article citations, Stam C has the highest number of citations, while Brown P has the highest H-index. In terms of the total number of publications, Clinical Neurophysiology is the leading journal, while Brain is the most highly cited. The most frequently cited articles pertain to software toolboxes for EEG analysis, neural oscillations, and PD pathophysiology. Through analyzing the keywords, four research hotspots were identified: research on the neural oscillations and connectivity, research on the innovations in EEG Analysis, impact of therapies on EEG, and research on cognitive and emotional assessments.ConclusionThis bibliometric analysis demonstrates a growing global interest in EEG research in PD. The investigation of neural oscillations and connectivity remains a primary focus of research. The application of machine learning, deep learning, and task analysis techniques offers promising avenues for future research in EEG and PD, suggesting the potential for advancements in this field. This study offers valuable insights into the major research trends, influential contributors, and evolving themes in this field, providing a roadmap for future exploration.
Global trends in the application of fluorescence imaging in pancreatic diseases: a bibliometric and knowledge graph analysis
Authors: Luo Quanneng , Teng Xiong , Dai ManXiong , Yang Jun , Cheng Wei , Chen Kang , Zhou Lei 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundIn recent years, with the continuous development of fluorescence imaging technology, research on its application in pancreatic diseases has surged. This area is currently of high research interest and holds the potential to become a non-invasive and effective tool in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic diseases. The objective of this study is to explore the hotspots and trends in the field of fluorescence imaging technology applications in pancreatic diseases from 2003 to 2023 through bibliometric and visual analysis.MethodsThis study utilized the Web of Science (core collection) to identify publications related to the application of fluorescence imaging technology in pancreatic diseases from 2003 to 2023. Tools such as CiteSpace (V 6.2.R6), VOSviewer (v1.6.20), and R Studio (Bibliometrix: R-tool version 4.1.4) were employed to analyze various dimensions including publication count, countries, institutions, journals, authors, co-cited references, keywords, burst words, and references.ResultsA comprehensive analysis was conducted on 913 papers published from January 1, 2003, to December 1, 2023, on the application of fluorescence imaging technology in pancreatic diseases. The number of publications in this field has rapidly increased, with the United States being the central hub. The University of California, San Diego emerged as the most active institution. “Biomaterials” was identified as the most influential journal. Authors with the most publications and the highest average citations per article are Hoffman, Robert M. and Luiken, George A., respectively. Keywords such as pancreatic cancer, cancer, expression, indocyanine green, and nanoparticles received widespread attention, with indocyanine green and nanoparticles being current active research hotspots in the field.ConclusionThis study is the first bibliometric analysis in the field of fluorescence imaging technology applications in pancreatic diseases. Our data will facilitate a better understanding of the developmental trends, identification of research hotspots, and direction in this field. The findings provide practical information for other scholars to grasp key directions and cutting-edge insights.
In vivo pharmacokinetics of Glycyrrhiza uralensis polysaccharides
Authors: Wubuli Abudukahaer , Chai Junwei , Liu Haoqiang , Nijat Dilaram , Li Jianmin , Xia Guoyu , Cao Qi , Zhang Saidan , Huang Weidong , Aipire Adila , Li Jinyao 
Published: July 2024

Glycyrrhiza uralensis polysaccharides (GUPS) are widely applied in biomedicine and functional food due to their multiple pharmacological activities and low toxicity. Despite their widespread use, the in vivo metabolic profile of GUPS remains poorly understood. To address this gap, we developed a quantitative analysis method that involves labeling GUPS with visible fluorescein (5-DTAF) and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescein (Cy7), resulting in stable conjugates with substitution degrees of 0.81% for 5-DTAF and 0.39% for Cy7. The pharmacokinetic studies showed a biphasic elimination pattern in the blood concentration-time curve following both intravenous and oral administration, consistent with a two-compartment model. Using fluorescence quantification and NIR imaging, we observed that GUPS was distributed to various tissues, exhibiting higher concentrations particularly in liver, kidney and lung. Excretion studies indicated that feces were the major excretion pathway of GUPS after oral administration (60.98%), whereas urine was the main pathway after intravenous administration (31.16%). Notably, GUPS could be absorbed rapidly by gut (Tmax 1 ± 0.61 h) and showed a biological half-time t1/2 26.4 ± 7.72 h after oral administration. Furthermore, the Caco-2 cells uptake studies illustrated that macropinocytosis and clathrin-mediated endocytosis were participated in the transport of GUPS in intestine epithelium. This comprehensive analysis of the in vivo pharmacokinetics of GUPS not only enhances our understanding of its metabolic pathways but also establishes a foundational basis for its clinical application, optimizing its therapeutic potential and safety profile.
Subcutaneous advanced glycation end products, cardiovascular risk factors and vascular health during childhood development in a Swiss population
Authors: Hauser Christoph , Lona Giulia , Köchli Sabrina , Streese Lukas , Infanger Denis , Faude Oliver , Hanssen Henner 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundSkin-derived advanced glycation end products (sAGEs) have been associated with cardiovascular (CV) risk and mortality in adults. We hypothesize that cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), body mass index (BMI) and vascular health are associated with development of sAGEs during childhood.MethodsIn our prospective cohort study, 1171 children aged 6–8 years were screened for sAGEs, BMI, retinal arteriolar diameters (CRAE) and pulse wave velocity (PWV), using standardized procedures. To determine CRF a 20 m shuttle run was performed. After four 4 years, all parameters were assessed in 675 children using the same protocols.ResultsHigher initial CRF levels were significantly associated with lower sAGEs (β [95 CI] −0.02 [−0.03 to −0.002] au, p = 0.022) levels at follow-up, although they showed a greater change from baseline to follow-up (β [95 CI] 0.02 [0.002 to 0.03] au, p = 0.027). Moreover, individuals with higher sAGEs at baseline showed narrower CRAE (β [95% CI] −5.42 [−8.76 to −2.08] μm, p = 0.001) at follow-up and showed a greater change in CRAE (β [95% CI] −3.99 [−7.03 to −0.96] μm, p = 0.010) from baseline to follow-up.ConclusionExercise and higher CRF may help mitigate the formation of AGEs during childhood, thereby reducing the risk for development of CV disease associated with AGEs-induced damage. Preventive strategies may need to target CRF early in life to achieve improvement of CV risk factors and may counteract the development of CV disease later in life.
Assessing the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder in a multicultural medical education setting in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ashraf Nader , Arabi Tarek Ziad , Dabaliz Alhomam , Abou Shaar Bader , Baqal Omar Javed , Taha Rand Mohammad , Baqal Eman Javed , Alkodaymi Mohamad Salim , Obeidat Akef , Ouban Abderrahman 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionMental health among medical students is an area that has been increasingly garnering world-wide attention. Yet, despite this increased attention, research related to anxiety disorders in Saudi Arabia remain limited. This study aims to address this gap by assessing the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as explore its association with students’ sociodemographic factors and academic performance among medical students in a Saudi Arabian institute that has a diverse, multicultural student body.MethodsThe study takes place in a unique educational environment: a privately funded institute in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, with 32% of its student body comprising international students from over 40 countries, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study deploys the use of a survey that was sent to the students at this institute via their institutional emails. A survey containing 33 items assessing demographics, GAD using GAD-7 questionnaire, stress-relief measures, online learning experience during the pandemic, mental disorders, anxiety associated with the pandemic, two open-ended questions, and one item assessing sleep difficulty.ResultsThe results of the survey showed that a significant majority of the responders’ scores in the GAD-7 assessment were in the range of moderate to severe anxiety. The results also suggest that low cGPA and the first academic years are significantly associated with higher GAD-7 scores. Students found severe time constraints, difficult educational content, and lack of psychological support to be major sources of stress. Furthermore, students suggested providing an in-house psychologist, personalized feedback, and guidance on study tactics as methods to reduce anxiety.ConclusionThese findings, among others, suggest a need for further studies and research in this field to uncover broader patterns and inform targeted mental health support strategies.
Analysis of factors influencing influenza outbreaks in schools in Taicang City, China
Authors: Shi Yao , Xu Lei , Jiang Hai , Cai Yongbin , Bao Changjun , Liu Wendong 
Published: July 2024

ObjectiveThis study aims to analyze the awareness of influenza prevention and control and the behavioral attitudes toward the work among parents and staff in schools in Taicang City and the impact of the vaccination rate among students on influenza outbreaks in schools. The findings can provide references for the development of effective control strategies for the spread of influenza.MethodsAn anonymous questionnaire survey was conducted on 10,962 students from 20 schools in Taicang City, with class as the unit of analysis. The survey investigated their awareness of influenza prevention and control, their attitudes, and the vaccination coverage.ResultsFrom January to June 2023, a total of 388 influenza outbreaks were reported in schools in Taicang City, involving 77 schools. There were 3,475 confirmed cases, with an average infection rate of 18.53%. In schools where influenza outbreaks had occurred, the incidence rate of those who received influenza vaccine was significantly lower than those who did not, and the vaccine protection rate was 28.22%. The knowledge awareness rates of “the main transmission routes of influenza” and “influenza vaccination can prevent influenza” among parents of students were 95.49 and 93.16%, respectively. The differences between schools involved in the epidemic and non-epidemic were statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). The correct attitudes of parents toward “actively reporting relevant symptoms to teachers when their children show symptoms” and “avoiding classes with diseases when their children are suspected to be sick” are 98.80 and 96.26%, respectively. The differences between schools with and without epidemic are statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). The correct attitudes of the class teacher toward “correct management and control of students with flu like symptoms in the class” and “taking correct prevention and control measures in the event of a flu epidemic in the class” were 89.36 and 92.55%, respectively. The differences between epidemic related and non-epidemic related classes were statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionEnhance the knowledge level of influenza prevention and control among parents of students, Strengthening the training for class teachers in emergency response to infectious diseases and increasing vaccination coverage among students can effectively reduce the incidence of influenza and thereby the occurrence of cluster outbreaks in schools.