bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Faecal biomarkers for diagnosis and prediction of disease course in treatment‐naïve patients with IBD
Authors: Ling Lundström Maria , Peterson Christer , Hedin Charlotte R. H. , Bergemalm Daniel , Lampinen Maria , Magnusson Maria K. , Keita Åsa V. , Kruse Robert , Lindqvist Carl Mårten , Repsilber Dirk , D'Amato Mauro , Hjortswang Henrik , Strid Hans ,   BIOIBD Consortium, Söderholm Johan D. , Öhman Lena , Venge Per , Halfvarson Jonas , Carlson Marie 
Published: July 2024

SummaryBackgroundFaecal biomarkers can be used to assess inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).AimTo explore the performance of some promising biomarkers in diagnosing and predicting disease course in IBD.MethodsWe included 65 patients with treatment‐naïve, new‐onset Crohn's disease (CD), 90 with ulcerative colitis (UC), 67 symptomatic controls (SC) and 41 healthy controls (HC) in this prospective observational study. We analysed faecal samples for calprotectin (FC), myeloperoxidase (MPO), human neutrophil lipocalin (HNL), eosinophil cationic protein ECP and eosinophil‐derived neurotoxin (EDN) and compared markers among groups. We assessed the diagnostic capability of biomarkers with receiver operating characteristic curves. Clinical disease course was determined for each patient with IBD and analysed the association with biomarkers by logistic regression.ResultsAll markers were elevated at inclusion in patients with IBD compared with HC (p < 0.001) and SC (p < 0.001). FC (AUC 0.85, 95% CI: 0.79–0.89) and MPO (AUC 0.85, 95% CI: 0.80–0.89) showed the highest diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing IBD from SC. The diagnostic ability of biomarkers differed between IBD subtypes with the highest performance for FC and MPO in CD. The diagnostic accuracy was further improved by combining FC and MPO (p = 0.02). Levels of FC, MPO and HNL at inclusion were predictive of an aggressive disease course with MPO showing the strongest association (p = 0.006).ConclusionsThis study provides new insight into the diagnostic and prognostic capability of neutrophil and eosinophil biomarkers in IBD and suggests that MPO, alone or in combination with FC, may add to the diagnostic power of faecal biomarkers.
Cell‐based therapy for diabetic cardiovascular complications: Prospects and challenges
Authors: Li Jia‐Peng , Fu Meng‐Meng , Li Xiao‐Xue , Xu Ming 
Published: July 2024

AbstractDiabetes mellitus is a long‐term metabolic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels. This disorder is closely associated with a range of complications affecting small and large blood vessels, including conditions like retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy, as well as ischaemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disease and cerebrovascular disease. These complications cause organ and tissue damage in an estimated 33% to 50% of individuals with diabetes. The management of these complications in patients with diabetes is confronted with significant clinical challenges. Present treatment modalities for cardiovascular complications secondary to diabetes are limited and exhibit suboptimal efficacy. Cell‐based therapies has shown great promise in regenerative medicine and improving cardiovascular function in individuals with diabetic complications, attributed to their potential for multilineage differentiation and regenerative capacity. In this review, we focus on diabetic cardiovascular complications and provide a brief introduction to the application of cell‐based therapies, including the use of stem cells and progenitor cells, their mechanisms of action and the prospects and challenges.
Synthesis and cytotoxic evaluation of heterocyclic compounds by vinylic substitution of ketene dithioacetals
Authors: Baliza Larissa R. S. P. , Freitas Túlio R. , Gonçalves Edward K. S. , Antunes Gabriel R. , Souza Ana J. F. , Yoneda Julliane , Duarte Caique Lopes , Andrade Silmara N. , de Paula Sabino Adriano , Varotti Fernando P. , Sangi Diego P. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractN‐heterocyclic compounds are important molecular scaffolds in the search for new drugs, since most drugs contain heterocyclic moieties in their molecular structure, and some of these classes of heterocycles are able to provide ligands for two or more biological targets. Ketene dithioacetals are important building blocks in organic synthesis and are widely used in the synthesis of N‐heterocyclic compounds. In this work, we used double vinylic substitution reactions on ketene dithioacetals to synthesize a small library of heterocyclic derivatives and evaluated their cytotoxic activity in breast and ovarian cancer cells, identifying two benzoxazoles with good potency and selectivity. In silico predictions indicate that the two most active derivatives exhibit physicochemical properties within the range of drug‐like compounds and showed potential to interact with HDAC8 and ERK1 cancer‐related targets.
The formation of a “model city in the Anatolian steppes”: Leapfrogging effects of spatial fix in Eskişehir, Turkey
Authors: Civelek Cansu 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe prevalence of neoliberalism has produced varied effects on cities ranging from rapid growth to gradual disempowerment. Instead of considering neoliberal urbanization as a fixed, predetermined process, I discuss the possibility of leapfrogging in urban repositioning. Particularly, I examine Eskişehir's repositioning process in response to disempowerment, placing particular emphasis on the “spatial fix.” Rather than being passive recipients of neoliberalization, local ruling elites might develop political agency to not only counter but also capitalize on disempowerment. To overcome financial and political constraints vital for the spatial fix, Eskişehir's mayor leveraged multiscalar networking strategies and symbolic revitalizations at particular historical conjunctures. Accordingly, Eskişehir's municipality, ruled by the center‐left opposition party, sought to redefine the city as a stronghold of secularism with the claims of Europeanization and modernization. They introduced the “Eskişehir model” as a contrasting narrative to the ruling AKP's urban vision rooted in Islamist‐nationalist agenda. These mechanisms reveal that ideological‐political clashes at the national level can serve as windows of opportunity for local ruling elites to counter disempowerment. As the ethnographic research shows, these mechanisms had leapfrogging effects not only on repositioning and fostering political power but also dissembling existing inequalities, disparities, and segregation beneath the celebrated Eskişehir model.
Targeting MS4A4A: A novel pathway to improve immunotherapy responses in glioblastoma
Authors: Shao Guangcai , Cui Xiangguo , Wang Yiliang , Luo Shuyan , Li Chuanyu , Jiang Yu , Cai Dasheng , Li Nu , Li Xiang 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIntroductionGlioblastoma (GBM) remains a challenging brain tumor to treat, with limited response to PD‐1 immunotherapy due to tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs), specifically the M2 phenotype. This study explores the potential of MS4A4A (membrane spanning four domains, subfamily A, member 4A) inhibition in driving M2 macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype via the ferroptosis pathway to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy in GBM.MethodsSingle‐cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomic analyses were employed to characterize M2 macrophages and MS4A4A expression in GBM. In vitro studies utilizing TAM cultures, flow cytometry, and western blot validations were conducted to assess the impact of MS4A4A on the tumor immune microenvironment and M2 macrophage polarization. In vivo models, including subcutaneous and orthotopic transplantation in mice, were utilized to evaluate the effects of MS4A4A knockout and combined immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy on tumor growth and response to PD‐1 immunotherapy.ResultsDistinct subsets of GBM‐associated macrophages were identified, with spatial distribution in tumor tissue elucidated. In vivo experiments demonstrated that inhibiting MS4A4A and combining ICB therapy effectively inhibited tumor growth, reshaped the tumor immune microenvironment by reducing M2 TAM infiltration and enhancing CD8+ T‐cell infiltration, ultimately leading to complete tumor eradication.ConclusionMS4A4A inhibition shows promise in converting M2 macrophages to M1 phenotype via ferroptosis, decreasing M2‐TAM infiltration, and enhancing GBM response to PD‐1 immunotherapy. These findings offer a novel approach to developing more effective immunotherapeutic strategies for GBM.
Significant Long‐Term Prevention of High Sensitization After Kidney Allograft Failure by Maintaining Calcineurin Inhibitor‐Based Immunosuppression
Authors: Allesina Anna , Lavacca Antonio , Fop Fabrizio , Giraudi Roberta , Giovinazzo Gloria , Deaglio Silvia , Caorsi Cristiana , Dolla Caterina , Gallo Ester , Mella Alberto , Biancone Luigi 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionBroad national or international programs contribute to mitigating the expected longer waiting list (WL) time for sensitized patients but with minor benefits for highly sensitized subjects. Therefore, strategies to prevent high sensitization are urgently required. In this study, we investigated the risk of developing highly sensitized patients with different immunosuppressive (IS) handling after kidney allograft failure (KAF).MethodsData from 185 patients with KAF, retransplanted/relisted from 2010 to 2020 in two regions of Italy that share the same regional WL, were analyzed. Patients were categorized according to IS management at 12 months after KAF as follows: patients maintaining IS with calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) (late withdrawal group [LWG], n = 58) and those who withdrew all IS therapy or were on steroids only (early withdrawal group [EWG], n = 127).ResultsPatients in the LWG showed lower panel reactive antibodies (PRA) at 12 (29.0% vs. 85.5%, p < 0.001) and 24 months (61.0% vs. 91.0%, p = 0.001), reduced risk of high sensitization (PRA ≥90%) at 12 (9.4% vs. 40.7%, p < 0.001, OR = 0.15) and 24 months (25.6% vs. 57.3%, p = 0.001, OR = 0.26) and almost no very high sensitization (PRA ≥ 98%) at 12 months (1.9% vs. 18.6%, p = 0.003, OR = 0.08) after KAF. In the LWG subgroup analysis, patients who maintained IS for up to 24 months after KAF did not show very high sensitization. The LWG showed shorter active WL times (406 vs. 813 days, p = 0.001) without an increased risk of complications.ConclusionsCNI maintenance for at least 12 months after KAF could be a useful approach to prevent high sensitization and reduce WL times in patients who are offered retransplantation, without a higher burden of complications.
Diabetes misconceptions, seriousness, motivation, self‐efficacy and stigma: A cross‐sectional comparison of eight Australian diabetes communication campaign videos
Authors: Holmes‐Truscott Elizabeth , Hateley‐Browne Jessica L. , Charalambakis Elizabeth , Ventura Adriana D. , Ripper Annette , Scibilia Renza , Speight Jane 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAimThis study examines potential intended (attitudes, motivation and self‐efficacy) and unintended (stigmatisation of diabetes) consequences of past Australian National Diabetes Week campaign videos. Further, outcomes are compared by the extent to which participants perceived their allocated video as stigmatising diabetes.MethodsIn this cross‐sectional, ten‐arm study, participants (adults with or without diabetes; 1:2 ratio) were randomly allocated to view one of eight archival diabetes campaign videos (intervention), or either an active or passive control group. Post‐exposure, study‐specific scales measured diabetes Misconceptions and Seriousness, General and Diabetes Risk‐Reduction Motivation and Self‐efficacy, and perceptions of video Stigmatisation of diabetes. Scores were compared by condition (intervention vs. control) and by campaign Stigma (highest vs. lowest tertile score), separately by cohort (with or without diabetes).ResultsThe sample included n = 1023 without diabetes; and n = 510 with diabetes (79% type 2 diabetes). No significant differences in outcomes were observed between conditions (intervention vs. control), with one exception: a modest effect on General Self‐efficacy among those without diabetes only. Those perceiving high campaign Stigma (15%), relative to low Stigma (60%), reported significantly greater diabetes Misconceptions, lower perceived Seriousness and (among those without diabetes only) lower General Motivation but higher Diabetes Risk Reduction Motivation.ConclusionThough limited to a single‐exposure, we found little meaningful positive influence of past diabetes campaign videos on diabetes attitudes, behavioural intentions or self‐efficacy. Further, campaign videos were perceived as stigmatising by a minority—a potential harmful impact. This novel study has implications for the design, implementation and evaluation of future diabetes campaigns.
Applied human neuroscience: Fostering and designing inclusive environments with the 3E‐Cognition perspective
Authors: Parada Francisco J. , Grasso‐Cladera Aitana , Rossi Alejandra , Soto‐Icaza Patricia , Arenas‐Pérez Maritza , Errázuriz María Constanza 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe conventional medical paradigm often focuses on deficits and impairments, failing to capture the rich tapestry of experiences and abilities inherent in neurodiversity conditions. In this article, we introduce the 3E‐Cognition perspective, offering a paradigm shift by emphasizing the dynamic interplay between the brain, body, and environment in shaping cognitive processes. The perspective fosters a more inclusive and supportive understanding of neurodiversity, with potential applications across various domains such as education, workplace, and healthcare. We begin by introducing the 3E‐Cognition principles: embodied, environmentally scaffolded, and enactive. Then, we explore how the 3E‐Cognition perspective can be applied to create inclusive environments and experiences for neurodiverse individuals. We provide examples in the realms of education, workplace, and healthcare. In all of these domains, spaces, methodologies, epistemologies, and roles that cater to diverse needs and strengths can be designed using the 3E principles. Finally, we discuss the challenges and benefits of implementing the 3E‐Cognition perspective. We focus on the need for technological advancements and research in complex real‐world scenarios; we suggest mobile brain/body imaging is a possible solution. We furthermore highlight the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse manners of experiencing and interacting with the world, the promotion of diverse well‐being, and the facilitation of innovation and creativity. Thus, we conclude that the 3E‐Cognition perspective offers a groundbreaking approach to understanding and supporting neurodiversity: by embracing the inherent interconnectedness of the brain, body, and environment, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world.
Boosting the Anti‐Helicobacter Efficacy of Azithromycin through Natural Compounds: Insights From In Vitro, In Vivo, Histopathological, and Molecular Docking Investigations
Authors: Bendary Mahmoud M. , Elmanakhly Arwa R. , Mosallam Farag M. , Alblwi Noaf Abdullah N. , Mosbah Rasha A. , Alshareef Walaa A. , Selim Heba M. R. M. , Alhomrani Majid , Alamri Abdulhakeem S. , Safwat Nesreen A. , Hamdan Ahmed M. E. , Elshimy Rana 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundAntimicrobial‐resistant Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) poses a significant public health concern, especially given the limited therapeutic options for azithromycin‐resistant strains. Hence, there is a necessity for new studies to reconsider the use of azithromycin, which has diminished in effectiveness against numerous strains. Thus, we aimed to augment azithromycin's anti‐Helicobacter properties by combining it with curcumin in different formulations, including curcumin in clove oil, curcumin nano‐gold emulsion, and curcumin nanoemulsion.MethodsThe antimicrobial activities of the investigated compounds, both individually and in combination with other anti‐Helicobacter drugs, were evaluated. Their antibiofilm and anti‐virulence properties were assessed using both phenotypic and genotypic methods, alongside molecular docking studies. Our findings were further validated through mouse protection assays and histopathological analysis.ResultsWe observed high anti‐Helicobacter activities of curcumin, especially curcumin nanoemulsion. A synergistic effect was detected between curcumin nanoemulsion and azithromycin with fraction inhibitory concentration index (FICI) values <0.5. The curcumin nanoemulsion was the most active anti‐biofilm and anti‐virulence compound among the examined substances. The biofilm‐correlated virulence genes (babA and hopQ) and ureA genes were downregulated (fold change <1) post‐treatment with curcumin nanoemulsion. On the protein level, the anti‐virulence activities of curcumin nanoemulsion were documented based on molecular docking studies. These findings aligned with histopathological scoring of challenge mice, affirming the superior efficacy of curcumin nanoemulsion/azithromycin combination.ConclusionThe anti‐Helicobacter activities of all curcumin physical forms pose significant challenges due to their higher minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values exceeding the maximum permissible level. However, using curcumin nanoemulsion at sub‐MIC levels could enhance the anti‐Helicobacter activity of azithromycin and exhibit anti‐virulence properties, thereby improving patient outcomes and addressing resistant pathogens. Therefore, more extensive studies are necessary to assess the safety of incorporating curcumin nanoemulsion into H. pylori treatment.
Efficacy of a water flosser compared to an interdental brush on gingival bleeding and gingival abrasion: A 4 week randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mancinelli‐Lyle Deborah , Van der Weijden Fridus (G. A.) , Slot Dagmar E. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAimTo determine the efficacy of a water flosser (WF) compared to an interdental brush (IDB) in reducing gingival inflammation. Additionally, the products were compared on the incidence of gingival abrasion.MethodsYoung adults with moderate gingivitis and ≥4 accessible interdental spaces by IDB in each quadrant were selected for this study. Participants were randomly assigned a WF or an IDB as an adjunct to manual toothbrushing. Clinical signs of inflammation were measured in two randomly assigned contralateral quadrants by bleeding on pocket probing (BOPP) or bleeding on marginal probing (BOMP). Gingival Abrasion Score (GAS) was assessed per quadrant. Data was recorded at the baseline, 2 weeks and 4 weeks.ResultsBoth groups WF (n = 40) and IDB (n = 38) showed a significant reduction (p = 0.000) in BOMP and BOPP from the baseline to 4 weeks for all sites and the interdental sites only. At 4 weeks the WF group compared to the IDB group showed significantly lower BOPP (p = 0.030) and BOMP scores (p = 0.003) for all sites. For the interdental sites WF showed compared to IDB for BOMP significant (p = 0.019) lower values but not for BOPP (p = 0.219). There were no differences between the groups for GAS at any time point.ConclusionIn patients with moderate gingivitis, after 4 weeks use the WF is more effective than the IDB in obtaining marginal gingival health.
Investigation of quality of life and anxiety level of patients who have undergone pigtail placement
Authors: Rikos Nikos , Titomichelaki Athena , Katsalaki Maria , Assargiotaki Maria , Kourlaba Georgia , Linardakis Manolis 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWorldwide, nephrolithiasis is a disease with an increased frequency of presence and symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the quality of life (QoL) and the factors influencing it in patients who have undergone pigtail catheter placement. Α cross‐sectional study was implemented in 85 patients from the Urology Clinic/University General Hospital of Crete, Greece, recruited during November 2022 and January 2023. Patients' demographic and medical history profile were recorded and their QoL and state anxiety status assessed using the SF‐36 and State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI‐S) scales based on multiple logistic regression analysis. The majority of patients were female (55.3%) and the mean age of all was 53.7 years (±11.5). QoL was moderate to high while 30.6% and 35.3% of patients presented high quality of Physical and Mental Components, respectively. For Anxiety, moderate mean scores were found while 62.4% presented high anxiety. Patients with low/moderate State Anxiety compared with their counterparts had better QoL in the SF‐36 subscales (p < 0.05). In the Physical Component, higher odds of high QoL appear to be found in females versus males (odds ratio, OR = 8.68, p = 0.008), in higher income categories (OR = 5.74, p < 0.001) and in patients with low/moderate anxiety (OR = 12.87, p < 0.001), while in the Mental Component higher odds were found for higher income categories (OR = 2.19, p = 0.018) and patients with low/moderate anxiety (OR = 7.20, p = 0.001). Better QoL in patients with nephrolithiasis and pigtail is associated with female gender, higher living standards and lower state anxiety, allowing more effective interventions by health professionals to alleviate patients' symptoms and empower them.
A software‐based observational coding approach for evaluating paediatric dental pain, anxiety, and fear
Authors: Bocklage Clare , Selden Raven , Tumsuden Olivia , Nanney Eleanor , Sawicki Caroline , Rapolla Allen , Cass Katelyn , Lee Jessica , Ginnis Jeannie , Strauman Timothy , Graves Christina , Divaris Kimon , Hodges Eric , Jacox Laura Anne 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundDental practitioners desire non‐pharmacological methods to alleviate anxiety, fear, and pain in children receiving dental care; high‐quality evidence, however, is required to evaluate methods' efficacy.AimThis study aimed to develop and validate an observation‐based coding approach (paediatric dental pain, anxiety, and fear coding approach [PAFCA]) to evaluate non‐pharmacological behavior management techniques for anxiety, fear, and pain.DesignObjective (video‐based) and subjective (self‐reported) anxiety, fear, and pain data were collected from a pilot clinical trial evaluating animal‐assisted therapy (AAT) in paediatric dentistry, in which 37 children aged 7–14 were assigned to AAT or control before dental treatment (restorations or extractions). A coding approach utilizing a codebook, a gold standard calibration video, and a user training guide was developed. Trained examiners coded the gold standard video for inter‐rater agreement, and masked, calibrated examiners analyzed videos using the Noldus Observer XT software.ResultsA novel, software‐based coding approach was developed, with moderately high inter‐rater agreement. Using PAFCA, we found children reporting higher levels of pain, fear, and anxiety exhibited treatment‐interfering behaviors, including crying/moaning, attempts to dislodge instruments, and more upper and lower body movements.ConclusionPAFCA shows promise as a reliable tool for assessing anxiety, pain, and fear in behavioral research for paediatric dentistry.